•;aW-. V,.** /j|^\ V.** ..^5^-. "< >p^6^ ^0 ' ,x- '"^ -^-sd^^r '^^^^'^^^ '^-^W*' ^^^'^\. ^^K*° .G^ ^ '.:*^^^ A"^ .• «?.^"-* -.„,.,,^; ,^^^"' ^o^ .9^ ■^0^ ^oV"^ ,$> ' e » o ' ^^ > V o . * • .0 ^^ ^^ .-. s* A <^ ^^0^ ^ - „ *^ A. * < TT** A <. 'o.'. " G^ 'o *yy.-* A ^ 'ow* ,G^ "hy & - '^'^ 0^ .'. -t^o^ »^ I ■'«?*-^> J. ^^--t^^t,- \ , HISTORY TOWN OF MARLBOROUGH, CHESHIRE COUNTY, N.H. WITH THE REPORT OF ITS CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION IN 1 876; ALSO EMBRACING GENEALOGIES AND SKETCHES OF FAMILIES FROM 1764 TO 1880. By CHARLES A. BEMIS. History gilds the Present with the Glory of the Past. ^^ !ofwashihC '^&'»'0/r«..«M,Ka-^^t BOSTON: Press of Geo. H. Ellis, 141 Franklin Street. 1881. J^ Copyrighted 1881, By CHARLES A. BEMIS. PEEFAOE. In the fall of 1873, I was induced, partly by my own tastes and pleasures, and partly by the earnest request of several citizens and former residents, to commence the collection of items for the History of Marlborough ; and now, after more than seven years of labor in this direction, with reluc- tance I lay down my pen, feeling that, though so much time and labor have been spent in the preparation of this work, it is yet imperfect in many of its details. Still I have done the best I could with the material at hand. He who has not entered upon an undertaking of this kind" can form no adequate idea of the vast amount of labor required to com- plete it. The work has been delayed beyond expectations and to the disappointment of many ; but it must be remem- bered that the writer is one of that unfortunate class who is dependent on his own hands for support, and therefore has been unable to devote his whole time to this work, as he has received no aid financially. The town loaned him a sum not exceeding $1,000, which is to be refunded from the sale of the book. Many of the following pages have been compiled at night after toiling ten hours at my handicraft. I would acknowledge my indebtedness to Hon. Isaac Hammond, Deputy Secretary of State ; to Elisha O. Wood- ward and George G. Davis, Town Clerks of Marlborough, who have been most obliging and helpful to me ; also to IV PREFACE. John J. Allen, Registrar of Deeds for Cheshire County, Rev. Dr. Sullivan H. McCoUester, Hon. Rufus S. Frost, Charles K. Mason, Jairus Collins, Daniel W. Tenney, and others, who have shown me great kindness and encouragement. And, now, I respectfully submit these pages to the people of Marlborough, hoping they will be charitably received; and, if the readers find as much pleasure in perusing, as I have in compiling this volume, I shall feel in some measure repaid for my extreme anxiety and protracted toil. CHARLES A. BEMIS. OOI^TEI^TS. INTRODUCTION. Situation and Boundary. — Surface and Geology. — Climate. — Trees and Fruits. — Ponds. — Streams and Brooks. — Zoological History. 1 — 4. CHAPTER I. THE MAS ONI AN CHARTER. Land in New Hampshire granted to Capt. John Mason. — New Hamp- shire becomes a Part of Massachusetts. — The Grant to John Tuf- ton Mason confirmed. — New Hampshire becomes a Separate Prov- ince. — Conflict of Titles. — The Masonian Proprietors. — The Curved Line. — Historical Error relative to the Grant of Monad- nock Number Five. — The Charter. — Plan of the Township. — French and Indian War. — New Proprietors. — First Meeting. — Drawing of the Lots. — First Roads. 5 — 22. CHAPTER II. SETTLEMENTS, ETC. William Barker. — Isaac McAlister. — Silas Fife. — Benjamin Tucker. — First Meeting in the Township. — First Saw-Mill. — First Houses. — First Census. — Delinquent Grantees. — Enoch Hale's Return of Settlements. — First Grist-Mill. — Difficulty of Settling with Pro- prietors' Officers. — Breed Batchellor. — Partial Organization of the Town. — Town incorporated. — Origin of the Name. — First Town- Meeting. — Tithingmen. — Deer-reeves and Hog-reeves. — Inven- tory of Taxable Property. 23 — 44. CHAPTER III. REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. The American Revolution an Important Event in History. — Condition of the Town at the Commencement of the War. — Result of the Vi CONTENTS. Battle of Concord and Lexington. — Battle of Bunker Hill. — Loss of Arms and Clothing. — Report of the Selectmen. — Expedition against Quebec. — Jacob and Pearson Newell. — The Fourteenth Regiment. — Tories disarmed. — Association Test. — Discharge of Benjamin Goodenow. — Col. Baldwin's Regiment. — Alarm and De- fensive Measures. — Bounties offered. — Battle of Stillwater. — Lieut.-Col. Andrew Colburn. — Alarm at Ticonderoga. — Captain Lewis's Company. — Three Men at the Battle of Bennington. — Eight Men in Col. Moor's Regiment. — Eleven Men in Col. Hale's Regiment. — Report of the Selectmen, 1780. — Men called for, and Measures taken to fill the Quota. — Continental Money. — Letter to the Committee of Safety. — Names of those who served in the Army at Different Times. — Some Account of Soldiers who afterwards became Inhabitants of the Town. — Alexander Fish. 45 — 70. CHAPTER IV. ADOPTION OF THE STATE CONSTITUTION.— WAR OF 1812. — INCORPORATION OF THE TOWNS OF ROXBURY AND TROY. Articles of Confederation drawn up. — Rejection of the Plan of Gov- ernment by the Town. — Rejection of the Second Plan of Govern- ment. — Amendments offered. — War declared against England. — Ammunition purchased by the Town. — Men called for. — The Draft. — Inspection of the Militia by Col. Prescott. — A Sham Fight. — Roxbury set off. — Troy incorporated. 71 — 79. CHAPTER V. THE CENTRE MEETING-HOUSE. Charter Stipulations concerning a Meeting-House. — Voted to build a Meeting-House. — Opposition. — Letters from Benjamin Tucker to George Jaffrey. — Building raised. —Measures taken to finisli the House. — Description of the Interior. — Phinehas Farrar's Account. — Warming the House. — Members of other Denominations ex- cused from paying the Ministerial Tax. — Use of Meeting-House divided among the several Denominations. — Repairing Meeting- House. — The Bell. — The House forsaken. — It becomes an Object of Contention. — Sold at Auction. — The Purchaser meets with Difficulties. — The Town again becomes the Owner. — The House legally disposed of. — Its Destruction. 80 — 97. CONTENTS. Vii CHAPTER VI. ECCLESIA S TI CA L HIS TOR Y. Early Efforts to secure Preaching. — Church formed. — Settlement of Rev. Joseph Cummings. — Difficulties with Mr. Cummings. — His Dismissal. — Protracted Controversy with Mr. Cummings. — Half- way Covenant. — Different Ministers employed. — Rev. Ebenezer Hill. — Halloway Fish called. — His Letter of Acceptance. — Ordina- tion of Mr. Fish. — His Character. — His Death.— Union between Church and Town dissolved. — A Society formed. — Rev. Salmon Bennett. — A New Society — Building of the Brick Church. — Rev. Moses G. Grosvenor. — Rev. Giles Lyman. — Meeting-House en- larged. — A Parsonage built. — Resignation of Mr. Lyman. — Rev. Henry B. Underwood. — Rev. Silas P. Cook. — Rev. John L. Merrill. — Meeting-House repaired and enlarged. — A New Organ. — The Chapel. — The Sabbath-school. 98 — 126. CHAPTER VII. HISTORY OF THE METHODIST, BAPTIST, AND UNI- VERSALIST CHURCHES. First Methodist Preaching in Town. — A Class formed. — Formation of the Church. — Class Leaders. — A Meeting-House built in Potters- ville. — Removal to Marlborough Village. — A Parsonage built. — Early Preachers. — Lorenzo Dow. — List of Preachers. — Rev. D. S. Dexter. — Baptists first mentioned in Town Records. — They obtain •leave to occupy the Meeting-House. — Other Places occupied by them for Worship. — A Society formed. — Names of Ministers em- ployed. — Deacons. — A New Meeting-House. — The Society unable to support Preaching. — They disband. — Meeting-House sold. — A Universalist Society formed. — Rev. E. Paine. — Sunday-school. — A Library. — A Meeting-House built. — Pastors. — Church formed. — Parsonage. 127 — 141. CHAPTER VIII. SCHOOLS. The Common Schools of New England. — Lease of the School Land. — Children taught at Home. — First Schools. — Four School Districts. — Money raised for Schools. — School-Houses built. — Eight Dis- tricts. — School-Teachers. — School Money. — Superintending Com- mittee. 142 — 162. viii CONTENTS. ^ ,,, CHAPTER IX. ' ■ THE REBELLION. Marlborough the First Town in the County to respond to tlie Call for Volunteers. — Three Men in the First Regiment. — Lieut.-Col. Con- verse. — Fourteen Men in the Second Regiment. — Sixth Regiment. — The Fourteenth Regiment. — The Draft. — Amount of Bounties paid. — Natives of Marlborough who enlisted from other Towns 163 — 167. CHAPTER X. MILLS AND MANUFACTORIES. First Saw-Mills. — Tucker Mill. — Tenuey Mill. — Grimes Mill. — Hunt- ing Mill. — Wiswall Mill. — Collins Mill. — Osborne Mill. — Mason MiU. — Grist-Mills. — Fulling-Mills. — Pails. — Clothes-pius and other Wooden Ware. — Knob-screws. — Blanket Mills. — Breed Pond Company. — Machinists. — Blacksmiths. — Tanneries. — Shoe-mak- ers. — Saddlers and Harness-makers. — Brown Earthen-Ware. — Brick. — Granite Quarry. 168 — 188. CHAPTER XI. TAVERNS AND STORES. The First Tavern. — Anecdote. — Taverns previous to 1792. — Old Red Tavern. — Cummings Tavern. — Sweetser Tavern. — Flood Tavern and Others. — The Half-way House. — Marlborough Hotel. — Sweet- ser Store. — Roberson's Store. — Fife Store. — Aaron Gage & Co. — Abner Boyden. — W. & E. Boyden. — Other Stores of the Olden Time. — Union Store. — Present Traders. 189 — 199. CHAPTER XII. PHYSICIANS. Dr. Justus Perry. — Dr. Kendall Bruce. — Dr. David Carter. — Dr. E. K. Frost. — Dr. James Batcheller. — Dr. Samuel A. Richardson. — Dr. Samuel J. Marthi. — Dr. George L. Harrington, 200 — 211. CHAPTER XIII. SKETCHES OF PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. Charles Cummings. — Cyrus Stone. — Osgood Herrick. — Luther Wis- wall. — Philander Wallingford. — William C. Whitcomb. — Edwin CONTENTS. ix Davis. — Sullivan H. McCoUester. — Jairus B. Collins. — Je amiah Stone. — Timothy L. Lane. — John Q. A. McCoUester. — Daniel li. Woodward. — Sumner A. Mason. — Luther Farrar. — Joseph C. Ma- son. — Andrew C. Stone. — John W. Converse. — Justus Perry. — Sumner Wheeler. — Cyrus Wakefield. — Warren IL Wilkinson. — Kufus S. Frost. — William H. Greenwood. — Deacon Abel Baker. 212 — 266. CHAPTER XIV. MISCELLANEOUS. Monadnock Mountain. — Post-offices. — Libraries. — Odd Fellows. — Cemeteries. — Mortuary Record. — Persons over Eighty, Jan. 1, 1880. — Town Officers. — Governor Vote. — Mirriam Newton's Diary. — Pauperism. — Abatement of Taxes. — Wild Animals. — Alexan- der Fish's Ear. — Anecdotes. 267 — 317. CHAPTER XV. The Centennial Celebration. 318 — 390. GENEALOGICAL REGISTER. APPENDIX. INDEX. INTRODUCTION. Situation and Boundaky. — Sukface and Geology. — Climate. — TeEES AND FkUITS. — PONDS. — StEEAMS AND BeOOKS. — ZOOLOG- ICAL Histoey. SITUATION AND BOUNDARY. The town of Marlborough in Cheshire County, New Hampshirej is situated in latitude 42° 54', and longitude 4° 49'. It is bounded on the north by Eoxl>ury ; east by Harrisville, Dublin, and Jaffrey ; south by Troy, and west by Troy, Swanzey, and Keene. Its dis- tance from Keene is five miles, from Concord fifty miles, and from Boston ninety-three miles. SUKFACE AND GEOLOGY. The surface of Marlborough is greatly diversified witli hills and valleys. Some portions of it are truly romantic and picturesque. It is almost surprising that within an area of thirteen thousand square acres, there should be such a diversity of highland and lowland, forests, and clearings. With truth we can say that Nature has smiled ^jropitiously upon this town, filling it with her choicest charms and attractions, beauties and sublimities. Its geological formation is made up mostly of the primitive rock. The outcropping ledges being numerous, are composed of granite. Geology would call ours the "everlasting hills," having existed from the very beginning of the world's history. The drift, or loose formation, is composed largely of silicates. The deposits give evidence of glacial, aqueous, and iceberg action. The grooves cut into the highest ledges, and holes worn into the granite, show the result of long-continued water-action. The minerals consist mainly of granite, gneiss, granular and rose quartz, feldspar, mica, beryl, garnets, and plumbago. The gneiss has been quarried extensively for building purposes. The granite ledges upon the Stone Hill are of o;i'eat value. 2 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. The sedimentary rocks are made up of sand, clay, and peat. The soil is best adapted to grazing. The farms under good culti- vation yield fair crops of Indian corn, oats, potatoes, rye, and barley. Those who are tilling their farms after modern methods, guided by the science of agriculture, are proving that systematic farming is no humbug, but is certain to result in good buildings, rich fields, fine stock, and independence of living. CLIMATE. The air of this town is usually pure possessing tonic properties. The elevation is such that even in the hottest days in July and August it is seldom sultry. Of course the winters are long, and the snows are frequently deep and drifted. The extensive growth of forests, no doubt, has much to do in moderating the air during summer and wintei'. TREES AXD FRFITS. Some of the principal forest trees are the oak, beech, birch, sugar-maple, elm, cherry, hemlock, pine, larch, and spruce. Orchards are quite abundant in Marlborough. The apple and pear trees are sure to yield here, if they do anywhere in this vicinity. The orchardists count largely on tlie income from their fruit trees. The peach, cherry, and grape do Mell here in certain localities. This town is highly favored with wild fruits. The blueberry, huckleberry, blackberry, ra.spl)erry, and strawberry are usually plenty in their season. Some years large quantities are shipped to distant markets. It is seldom a season passes without a supply of wild fruit sufficient to meet all home demands. The flora here is very full. The botanist finds a great variety of pbmts, all the way from the delicate mosses and ferns in the deep dells to the Alpine flowers upon the highest elevations. roxDS. The Stone Pond situated in the east part of jMarlborough, is its largest bod}^ of water ; it is about three-fourths of a mile in b'ngth and one-third of a mile in width ; its elevation is some two tliousand feet above the level of the sea. Its water is clear and sparkling. Its native fish were trout ; seventy-five years ago large quantities (if tlieiii were cauglit from it, weighing from tliree to iNTRODtTCtlON. 3 four pounds each. At length tlie pond was stocked with pickerel, and the trout since that have nearly disappeared. The pickerel grow to a large size. The yellow perch are now its most abundant fish. The scenery just around this pond and in the distance can scarcely be surpassed. Were it located in Italy or Switzerland, it surely would have been famous in song and story ; it would have been possessed of as many charms and beauties as Luzerne or Como. The Cummings Pond in tlie north part of the town, is about three-fourths of a mile long and one-fourth of a mile wide. No doubt it was formerly much larger than at the present time. Trout were once common in this pond, but now pickerel, pouts, and shiners seem to monopolize its waters. Through the ice hundreds of pickerel have been caught from it in a single day. The Clapp Pond is in the north-east part of the town. It is not as large as the Cummings Pond, but more depressed. Its waters are not so clear as those of the Stone Pond. Its fish consist mainly of pickerel and pouts. The Meeting-house Pond, near where the old meeting-house stood, occupies an area of one hundred square acres, including the open water and what is grown over with bog. This pond has long been a favorite resort for fishing. Its waters have been prolific of pickerel and catfish. STREAMS AND BROOKS. The largest stream is the Minniwawa. Its head waters are in Nelson and Dublin. Flowing through a very broken country, it is subject to sudden rise and fall of water ; stiU, by the means of reservoirs and ponds, it is supplied with power sufficient for exten- sive manufactories of woolen goods, wooden wares, and for grinding grain. With propriety it may be called the mother of our present thriving village. It has been faithful in driving saws, spindles, and millstones so as to supply work for many active minds and busy hands. Its faUs and basin, a short distance above the village, are natural curiosities, of special interest to lovers of the grand and beautiful. Another stream is known as the South Branch, which is about the size of the Minniwawa. Its current is rapid and its bed very stony. Its waters have been utilized to some extent in propelling lathes and saws. 4 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. There are several brooks in town, which are supplied with pure cold water, furnishing countless haunts for finny tribes. ZOOLOGICAL HISTORY. Though in the early history of this town, bears, wolves, pan- thers, and deer, were numerous, still these all disappeared long since, leaving only traditions of their feats and cruelty. Within the remembrance of some who are living, beavers and minks were quite common, but now it is seldom one is seen or caught. Foxes are numerous ; they seem strongly attached to our hills and dales. They appear to lose none of their sagacity or cunning, as civiliza- tion presses upon them. They evidently enjoy turkeys and chickens with as good relish, as they did pheasants and conies. The woodchucks hold in their jjossession at present as much real estate as they did fifty or a hundred years ago. In spite of guns, dogs, and traps, they have kept their stock unimpaired and undiminished. Eabbits frequent our glades and thickets. Red, grey, and chippering squirrels inhabit our woods and forests. We are all apprized now and then that skunks are around, and are free to lend their infiuence to friend or foe. Rats and mice cling to ojir homes with fondest attachments, assuring us that their race is not yet run. Hawks whistle and crows caw now as they did, when the whoop of the Indian and the bark of the woK echoed among the hills and valleys. During some seasons, wild pigeons flock to our fields and woods in large numbers. Ducks swim our ponds, partridges beat our logs and whir through the leafy boughs, and the owls hoot as they did, when the axe of the early settlers first rang from our highlands and by our streams. The robin, the oriole, the bluebird, the phebe, the wren, the lark, the bobolink, the nightingale, the thrush, the ground-bird, the hair-bird, the king-bird, and the humming-bird, are with us every year to furnish change and enchantment. CHAPTER I. THE MASONIAN CHARTER. Land in New Hampshire GRA>fTED to Cai't. John Mason. — New Hampshire becomes a part of Massachusetts. — The grant TO John T'ufton Mason confirmed. — New Hampshire becomes A separate Province. — Conflict of Titles. — The Masonian Proprietors. — The Curved Line. — Historical error rela- tive to the grant of Monadnock, No. V. — The Charter. — Plan of the Township. — French and Indian War. — New Proprietors. — First Meeting. — Drawing of the Lots. — First Roads. During the reign of King James I. of England, a conncil was established which had the control of a large territory including all of New England. One of the most active members of this conncil was Capt. John Mason who was born at Lynn Regis, in the Connty of Norfolk, England, abont the year 1570. Soon after his appointment as a member of this conncil, he was chosen their secretary. Finding himself thns placed in the front rank of those who were interested in promoting discoveries and encouraging settlements in North America, he determined not only to countenance these enterprises, l)ut also to embark his fortunes and devote his time to the business. In March, 1621, he procured from the council a grant of land which included a portion of New Hampshire lying east of the Merrimac River. In 1629, the council granted to Capt. Mason all the land ''from the middle of Piscataqua River, and up the same to the farthest head thereof, and from thence north-westward until sixty miles from the mouth of the harbor are finished ; also through Merrimac River to the farthest head thereof, and so forward up into the land Avestward until si.\t\' miles arc liiiislu'd: und tVoni thciice to 6 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. cross overland to the end of sixty miles accounted from the mouth of Piscataqua River." This grant is connected with tlie histor}^ of Marlborough, as it was for many years sup- posed that the patent line was the western l)oundary of the town. This tract of land was called New Hampshire, the name being derived from the County of Hampshire in England. Soon after this grant was obtained, the towns of Ports- mouth, Dover, Hampton, and Exeter, were laid out ; but the attempts at settlement were not successful. Capt. Mason died, November 16, 1635, leaving the greater part of his estate in New Hampshire to his grandson, Robert Tufton, taking the name of Mason. In 1688, the widow of Capt. Mason, who was executrix of his will, sent over Francis Norton as her "general attorney," to Avhom she committed the whole management of the estate. But the expense so far exceeded the income that she was soon obliged to give up the care of the plantation and tell the servants that they must shift for themselves ; and they immediately took their share of the goods and cattle. These servants were Danes, and it may truly be said that they were the pioneers of the great lumber business of New Hampshire and Maine. In 1641, all the settlements in New Hampshire, by a voluntary act, submitted to Massa- chusetts, and were comprehended in the County of Norfolk, which extended from the Merrimac to the Piscataqua River. This union lasted about forty years ; and although it was noticed l)y the heirs of Mason, yet they were pre- vented from taking any legal action in regard to it, for reason of the civil war then raging in England. As the family of Mason had always been attached to the royal cause, they could expect no favors during the Protectorate of Cromwell ; but no sooner was Charles II. restored to the throne than Robert Tufton Mason peti- tioned to the crown for a restoration of his rights. This petition was referred to Sir Geoffrey Palmer, the Attorney- General, who reported that " Robert Mason, the grandson and lu'ii- of Ca])!. .John Mason, had a good and legal title THE MASONIAN CHARTER. 7 to the province of New Hampshire." Nothing effective, liowever, was done to restore to liini his chiim. In 1()S0 New Hampshire Avas by royal commission s(']»a- rated tVoiu JNIassachnsetts and nuuU' a distinct province. The new government consisted of a president and conncil appointed by the king, and a lionse of representatives chosen by tlie people. At this time the whole nnmber of voters in the province was two hundred and nine, all in the fonr towns of Ports- mouth, Dover, Exeter, aiid Hampton. In the first Assembly the whole nund)er of representatives was eleven, — three each from Portsnu)uth. Dover, and Hampton, and two from Exeter. In the latter part of the year 1681, Mason came over from England, empowered by the king to take a seat in the council. He noAV attempted to enforce his claims in an arbitrary manner, by compelling the people to take leases of him ; but his claims were resisted, not only by the people, l)ut ])y the officers of the government: and, finding that he liad lost all countenance and support from the council, lie returned to England. After this he made several attempts to compel the people to take leases of him, but was unsuc- cessful. He then commenced suits against several })rominent men for holding lands and selling timber ; and in these cases, although a verdict was obtained in his favor, yet he coidd find no purchaser for his lands, and the defendants were permitted to enjoy them as before. In 1688, Mason died leaving two sons, John and Robert, heirs to the claim. They soon sold their right to Samuel Allen of London for £750. Allen attempted to enforce his claims, but met with no better success than his prede- cessors. At last, Allen being poor and somewhat advanced in years, proposed to compromise, but died before any definite action was taken. His son, Thomas Allen, renewed the suits, but died in 1715 without establishing his claim. When the province was sold to Allen the bargain was made in England, and 8 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. tlie lands were by fiction of law supposed to be tliere, and tlie process respecting the fine and recovery was carried on in the court of the king's Bencli. During the lives of the two Masons, no notice was taken of the supposed flaw. The brothers returned to America. John died childless ; Robert married and had a son named John Tufton Mason who after the death of his father, con- ceived hopes of invalidating Allen's claims, on account of the informality attending the purchase, but died in 1718, without having accomplished his piupose. He left two sons. John Tufton Mason and Thomas Tufton Mason. John Tufton Mason, the elder of the two brothers, became of age about the year 1738, at the time when the controversy between tlie i)rovinces respecting the southern l)0undary of Xew Hampsliire was renewed and brought to a crisis. While this dispute was pending, the agent of New Hamp- shire, Thomlinson made an agreement with Mason in behalf of that province for the purchase of his whole interest, for one thousand pounds. New England currency. This agree- ment was put into the hands of the governor who laid it before the House. It lay on tlie table for some time without any formal notice. In the meantime Mason had suffered a fine and recovery in the courts of New, Hampshire, by which he could convey his interest in fee. He also presented a memorial to the Assembly, in which he told them that he woidd wait no longer, and that unless they would come to a decision he should take their silence as a refusal, intimating at • the same time that, if they would not ratify the agreement, a sale would be made to other parties. After considerable delay, the House came to the resolution " that they would comply with the agreement," and chose a committee to complete the pur- chase with Mason ; but they were too late ; for on the same day, January, 30, 174(), he had by deed of sale, for fifteen hundred pounds currency, conveyed his whole interest to twelve persons, in lifteen shares. The purchasers who are known as the Masonian Pro- prietors, were Theodore Atkinson, three-fifteenths; Mark THE MASONIAN CHARTER. 9 11. Wentwortli, two-fifteeiiths ; Richard Wibird, John Went- worth (son of the governor), George Jaffrey, Nathaniel Meserve, Thomas Packer, Thomas Wallingford, Jotham Odiorne, Joshua Pierce, Samuel Moore, and John Moffatt, one-lifteenth each. All the aforesaid gentlemen were residents of Portsmouth except Thomas Wallingford who was of Somersworth, and Thomas Packer of (Ireenland. These grantees immediately relin(|uished all claims, except to the unoccupied portions of the territory, — a course which was higjily satisfactory to the people. That portion in the vicinity of the Monad- nock being still uninhabited was claimed by the Masonian Proprietors. Previous to the granting of townships from their posses- sions, the number of shares was increased to eighteen, and nine m5re persons Avere admitted into the association. The new members were as follows : John Rindge, Joseph Blan- chard, Daniel Pierce, John Tufton Mason, John Thomlinson, Matthew Livermore, William Parker, Samuel Solley, and Clement March. Soon after the Masonian Proprietors had taken their deed, they began to grant townships, and con- tinued to do so to petitioners, often without fees, and always without quit rents. They early directed their attention to the lands around Monadnock, which they laid out into eight townships, as follows : Rindge was Monadnock No. 1 ; Jaffrey (sometimes called Middletown) was Monadnock No. 2 (or Middle Monadnock) ; Dublin (or North Monadnock) was Monad- nock No. 3 ; Fitzwilliam (sometimes called Stoddard's town) was Monadnock No. 4 ; Marlborough was Monadnock No. V ; Nelson (formerly called Packersfield), Monadnock No. 6 ; Stoddard (which was known as Limerick) was Monadnock No. 7 ; and Washington (once Camden) was Monadnock No. 8. These townships were granted to different parties on condition that they fulfilled certain stipulations. The laying out of these was, however, the source of a contro- versy respecting the western boundary of Mason's Patent 4 10 HISTORY OF IMARLBOEOTJGH. which was for many years supposed to be on the west line of Marlborough. By early measurements, however, it was discovered that only a part of Rindge and Jaffrey was included within the patent, and that Duldin, Fitzwilliam, Marlborough, Nelson, Stoddard, and Washington were wholly without its limits. The Masonian Proprietors liad granted all these townships, but, finding they had gone beyond the limits of their charter, they laid claim to the extraneous territory, and successfully maintained the cpntrol of the townships in dispute during many years of controversy. The original grant to Mason describes an extent of " sixty miles from the sea, on each side of the Province, and a line to cross over from the end of one line of sixty to the end of the other.'" The Masonians claimed that this cross line "should l)e a curve, l^ecause no otlier line woidd preserve the distance of sixty miles from tlie sea in every part of their western boundary."' They also claimed that tlie south-west corner of Fitz- william was the termination of sixtj' miles from the sea ; and then, by making a curved line, they would embrace the eight INIonadnock townships. Several of the more northern town- ships had been granted by the crown, and a bitter conflict of grants ensued, which did not end until after the close of the Revolution, Avhen tlie l^cgishiture took up the matter, and, after a hearing of the conflicting interests, ordered a survey to be made, l)y running a line of "sixty miles from the Atlantic Ocean on the eastern and southern boundaries of the State, and a straight line from the end of one, sixty mik's to the end of the other." ''The termination of sixty miles, or the south-west corner of Mason's grant, Avas found to be at lot No. 18, in Rindge, and one and one-fourth of a mile from the south-west corner of the town, and thence nortli thirty-nine degrees east, a distance of ninety-three and one-half miles to the end of the eastern boundary." This ended the contest. The INIasonians seeing they could not substantiate their claim, now came forward and purchased of the State all the land included betAvccn the THE MASONIAN CilAimCR. 11 strau/Jit and curved lines for the sum of forty thousand dollars in public securities and eight hundred dollars in specie. These Proprietors, at a meeting held in Portsmouth, December, 6, 1751, gave their agent, Joseph Blanchard, Esq., of Dunstable, authority to grant a tract of land by estimation, twenty thousand acres to James Morrison and thirty-three others. This tract, or township, was called Monadnock No. V. Keen-sighted gazetteers and historians wlio give town statistics tell us that Marlborough was first granted by charter, April, 29, 1751, to Timothy Dwight and sixty-one others. This is a great error. By referring to Charter Records, Vol. I., p. 71, we find that this does not relate to Marlborough, N.H., but to Marlborough, Vt., which was chartered to Timotli}" Dwight and his associates by Governor Wentwortli, before the separation of the two States, and is consequently entered on our State Records. The following is a copy of the Masonian charter. THE CHAETER OF MONADNOCK NO. V. Province of [ New Hampshire. C Pursuant to the Power aud Authority Granted and Vested In me the Subscriber by the Proprietors of Land, Purchased of John Tufton Mason Esq'' in the Province of New Hamp'' by their Vote Pass'd at their Meeting held at Portsmouth in Said Province the 6"^ Day of December 1751. I Do By these Presents on the Terms and Limitation, hereafter Express'd Give and Grant all the right Possession and Property of the Prop"" aforesaid unto James Morrison Jun'', Archibald Dunhip, Robert Clark, James Lyons, Robert Allen, Andrew Armer, Halbert Morrison, David Morrison, Samuel ^Morrison, John ^Morrison, Thomas Morrison. AVilli'" Gihirer, John Gilmer, Samuel Allison, Samuel Allison Jun'', James Willson Jun'', John AVillson, Robert "Willson, Thomas Willson, Samuel Willson, Samuel Steel, James Moore, John Warson, John Cocli- ran, Isaac Cochran, Thomas Cochran, Samuel Cochran, Hugh Mont- gomery, Henry Neal, John Moore, Robert Moore, Samuel Mitchel, Thomas M"=Clary, three Shares Each and To James Willson Sen"" one Share, — of In and To that Tract Of Land or Township Call'd Monad- nock Nmnber five — Situate in the Province of New Ilamp*' Contain- 12 HISTOKY OF MAIJLBOROUGH. ing By Estimation twenty thousand Acres Bounded as follovvetli, — Beginning at the Xovthwcst ("oi-nev of the Townsliip Call'd North Mouadnock No. three and Runs from thence — North Eighty Degrees West three Miles and an half To a Beach Tree on the West Line of Masons Patent and tVom thence Southerly in that Line Seven Miles three Quarters & forty Rods To the North West Corner of the Township Called Mouadnock N". four from thence — South Eighty Degrees East about four Miles by the North Line of Said No. four till it Come to the "West Line of Mouadnock N". two and from thence North by the Needle by Mouadnock N°. two and N^. three To the first Bounds men- tioned, To Have and To hold To them theu- heirs & assigns on the following Terms Conditions and Limitations that is To Say that within Nine jNIonths from this Date there be One hundred & Twenty three fifty Acre Lotts Lay'd out as Near the Middle the Township In the Best of the Upland as Conveniency Will Admit & Drawn for and that the Remainder of the Township be Divided Into One hundred & Twenty thi'ee Shares not Exceeding two Lotts to a share In Such Quantity as the Grantees Agree upon Each Lott & Drawn for within two Years from this Date, That three of the aforesaid Shares be Granted and appropriated free of all Charge One for the first Settled minister One for the Ministry & One for the School those forever One Lott for Each Said Share to be Laid Out Near the Middle of the Town & Lotts Conpled to them So as to Make them Equal with the Rest, That Twenty more of Said Shares be Reserved for the Grantors their heirs and Assigns forever and Accpiitted from all Duty & Charge iintill IinproA'ed by the Owner or Owners or some holding mider them Respectively, That the Owners of the Other Rights make Settlement at their Own Expense in the following manner Viz. all the Lotts to be Lay'd out at the Grantees Expense, That all the Lotts in Said Town be Subject to have all Necessary Roads Lay'd out thro' them as there shall be Occasion free from Charge for the Land, That at or Before the Last Day of December 1754 there be three Acres Clered Enclosed and fitted for mowing or Tillage on thirty of the aforementioned Grantees Shares Viz on one Share of Each of the aforenamed Grantees excepting Hugh ^Montgomery, .lames Moor & Samuel Steel and from tlience annually one Acre more in Like ]\lanner for five years and that Each of tlie Grantees have a house Built on Some One Lott in Said Township of a Room Sixteen feet Square at the Least Besides the Chimney ^Vay with a Chimney & Cellar fit for Comfortable Dwelling therein In Six Years from the Date hereof and Some Person Inhabiting and Resident In Each house and To Continue Inhabitancy there for foiu- Years then Next Coming and thai Within the Term of THE MASONLAN CHARTER. 13 twelve Years from this Date there be Seventeen Lotts more Yh one of the Rights of James Morrison, Robert Chirk, .raines Lyons, Robert Allen, Andrew Armer. llalbert jNlorrison, David Morrison, Samuel Moriison, John Morrison. Thomas Morrison, William (rilmore, John (iilmoi-e, Samnel Allison, -lames Willson, John Willson. HolxTt Willson. James Willson Jiiii', have Jn Like manner live Acies of Land ClerM Kudosed i'illiaiii (lilliiior, John (iillmor. Sain' Alison, Sani'l Alison rliin'r, .laine.s Wilson .Iiiu'r, .lolni \\'ilson, l^obert ^^'ils()n, 'J'honias Wilson, Sani'l Wilson, Sani'l Steel, .James Moore, fJohn Wason, John Cochran, Isaac Cochran, Thomas Cochran, Sani'l Cochran, Ilunh Montgomery, Henry Xeal, John ^Nloore, Robert jNIoore, Sani'l INIitchel, Thomas ]\rCleary & James Wilson Sen'r. Under certain conditions Limitations, and reservations in s'd (irant mentioned as by lleferences thereto will iuUy appear. Voted that we do hereby accept said Title and for ourselves our heir.s, & assignees, do acknowledge that we hold said land under said Title, Conditions & Limitations with the Reservations therein mentioned. MATTHEW THORNTON Prop'^ Clerk. These grantees whom we will now call I'roprietors, were probably most of them residents of Londonderry and Dun- stable, and doubtless never intended to take up their abode here, but expected to realize something from the sale of lands to those Avho would settle thereon. Whetlier an effort was made by these Proprietors to bring forward the settlement of the township it does not now a})pear, for we find no record of their proceedings for over nine years. If any effort was made at this time it was suspended by the Frencli and Indian War which broke out in 1753, and was, no doubt, the cause of the nonfulfilnient of the charter stipulations. This war spread consternation throughout the settled por- tions of New England. It was the course ever pursued by the Indians upon the renewal of a war l)etween the French and English, to commence their attacks upon the frontier settlements. In August, 175-1, a party of Indians broke into the house of James Johnson at Charlestown, early in the morning, and captured the whole family consisting of eight persons. In 1755 Benjamin Twitchell was captured in Keene, and several persons were killed at Walpole and Hinsdale. Parties of Indians were also seen lurking round in various other localities. Exaggerated accounts of Indian atrocities spread with great rapidity throughout the settlements, and a general feeling of insecurily prevailed to such an extent that no progress could be made toward settling new townships. 16 HISTORY OF MARLBOKOCGH. In 1761 a number of individuals residing in tlie towns of Westborough and Marll)orough, Mass., obtained an interest in the township. Their names were as follows : — l)aviay been made to me y'^ Subscriber by y" owners of more than one 16"' part of the shares Rights or Interests of the whole of that tract or Township called Monadnock N" 5, — in said Province, Desireiug me to Notify & call a Meeting of the Prop'*' of said Tract of Land. — This is therefore to Notify & Warn all the Proprietors of the common and undivided Lands of the s'^ Tract or Township called Monadnock, N^ 5. aforesaid. To assemble & meet at y^ House of Colo. W'illiams, Inholder In Marl- borough in the County of Middlesex on the Tenth Day of December Next at Ten o Clock in the Morning in order to act and vote on the Fol- lowing articles, viz. 1 To chose a Prop** Clerk, 2'^^y A Prop*'* Treasurer, o Assessors, 4 a Proprietors Collector, 5"''^ To see if the Prop'" will agree to allot oiit the said Township or any part thereof and raise JNIoney l)y a Tax or otherwise for that End or any other, to carry on any Publick Matter or thing necessary to Brings forward the settlement of said Town- ship, 6"^ To agree on some Measures for calling Proprietors Meetings for the Future. November 10"' 1701 JOSEPH BLANCHARD Jus. Peace The Proprietors assembled at the time and place specified ill the above notification, and we copy the following from the records of that meeting : — 1^' Made Choice of Noah Chm-ch Moderator, 2diy Ebenz'- Dexter Prop'" Clerk, 3'^^y Jesse Rice Prop'" Treasurer, itiiiy Xof^ij Church T Jacob Feltou > Assessors, Ebenz"" Dexter J o"''y Stephen How Prop'" Collector. The meeting was then adjourned to April, 30, 1762 ; then to meet at the house of Jonathan Warren, Innholder, in Marlborough. At the adjourned meeting, the Proprietors voted to lay out the whole of the township into one-hiiiidred-acre lots, on or before the 20th day of the next June. "Dr. Bond, Capt. Joseph Biglo, Mr. Daniel Harrington & Lieut. Silas Gates," were chosen a committee to carry this into effect. To meet the expense, it was voted to raise five dollars on 5 18 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. each Proprietor's right. This meeting was adjourned to the 30th day of June to meet at the house of Capt. Bezaleel Eager, Innhokler, at Westborough. At the adjourned meeting, the committee for lotting out the town reported that they were not ready for the drawing of the lots, "by reason of y^ whole of the above said Tract of Land not being allotted out"; and the meeting was further adjourned to the second Wednesday of October, to meet at the house of Col. Williams, Inn- holder, in Marlborough. At this meeting little was done beyond choosing a committee to couple the lots for drawing, and fixing upon a method for calling Proprietors' meetings, which was as follows: "Upon applycation of the owners of five original Rights Made to the Clerk in Writing inserting the articles to be acted upon, he shall thereupon Make out a notify- cation Warning all y^ Prop*^ at such time and place as they shall appoint, and He shall post up Two Notifycations Viz. one in Marlboro, & one in Westborough at some Public Places 14 Days before said ^Meeting, and all Meetings so Posted & Held shall be good & Valid." * The drawing of the lots took place on November, 22, 1762. We insert here the schedule of the shares, with the lots drawn annexed. The names in the left-hand column are those of the grantees: on the right, those to wliom each rio-ht was transferred at the time of drawino'. *The town was .surveyed by Jonathan Liverraore, 'Noah Church, and Isaac MoAlister. A line was first drawn through the geographical centre from east to west. South oO this line there were eight ranges with thirteen lots in each range ; north, one hundred and five lots, the ranges not being numbered. THE MASONTAN CHARTER. 19 A List of the Pi'oprietors of IMouadiiock N" 5. With tlie Draft of Their Lotts excepting y" Lord Proj)'-. Reference Being JIad to the Phin and X umbers as y*^ came. "fe-t « » ' §, «i SD « Names. 1 ^ 2 1 HO 1 ^ i Names. Thos. "Wilson 1 11 3 51 10 3 7 3 1 1 David Church Henry Neal 2 12 3 52 53 1 3 2 8 Jona. Mlanchard James Lyon 3 17 92 9 4 10 4 3 5 Wni. Eager Thos. Cochran 4 22 9 7 8 7 60 59 Addonijah How^- Richd. Tozer v' Wni. Gilmoie 5 93 30 3 4 4 4 27 Robert Wilson 6 94 6 1 5 3 6 3 105 Eleazcr How Jno. Wason 7 49 10 7 14 15 1 5 Charles Biglo Halbt. Morison 8 35 2 4 1 4 62 101 Noah Church Saml. Moribedient children to theil* Parents, desire your Honors would take our case into your wise consideration, and if your Honors think proper, grant said delinquents Rights to the inhabitants of said Township, on such conditions as your Honors shall think jiroper; or otherwise release us, as your Honors in your great wisdom shall think proper. And we as in duty bomid shall ever pray. Monadnock, Nmnber five 25th day of July 17G8. Daniel Goodenough, Joshua Tucker, Caleb Tucker, William Barker, Isaac McAlister, Stephen Church, Joseph Collins, Abijah Tucker, Charles Bigelow, Abel Woodward, Moses Tucker, Richard Tozer. y The delinquent grantees now began to bestir themselves, and, fearing that the prayer of the petitioners would be granted, engaged Jonathan Blanchard who was supposed to have great influence with the Masonian Proprietors, to act for them in the matter of opposing the petition of the inhabitants for a new grant. Accordingly in December following, that gentleman presented to the Lord Proprietors the following memorial : — To the Gentlemen Prop'' Purchasers of the right of Jolm Tufton Mason Esq. in the Province of New Hampshire. The Memorial of Jonathan Blanchard of Dunstable in said Province shews, — That your JNIemorialist and others are largely intei-ested in the New Township called Monadnock No. 5, granted to your Right some years since. — That they (& other families) have at a large expense been & still are carrying on & completing the Settlement of said Township, as injoined by Grant thereof. — That your Memorialist, understands a Petition has been preferred to your Society, (as well as many causeless Insinuations mentioned) Setting forth that a number of the Original Grantees or their assigns are dila- tory, wholly neglect the improvement and settlement of their Rights & Shares. — That your Memorialist declares (so far as he can find out) that the Representation aforesaid is false, & that tliere is not one single right SETTLEMENTS, ETC. 81 in said Townyliip, luit lluit has more or less cleared & Iiii]>roved oii, & that if the whole duty is not already done, as they are perfect of Uic same, he xirayes for your further indulgence & is persmided that any new Grant cannot hasten the Settlement. That if the Petitioners aforesaid, should again beg for the supposed forfeiture, your IMemorialist prays that he may have Xotice and Liberty to state the Facts touching the Settlement, before any New Grant takes place, whifh tho' perha]3s cannot take effect yet it may be prejudicial to the Present Claimers & no ical service, and your Memorialist as iu duty shall ever pray. JONA BLANCHARD. Portsmouth, Dec. 22'S 17GS. The Masoiiian Proprietors wishing- to act jiidicioiTslv in the matter, wrote to Benjamin Tucker requesting that he \\'oul(l forward to them " a just account of the settk^neut of ^lonadnock, No. V," and how far they had compHed witli the conditions of their cliarter. They also employed Col. Enoch Hale of Rindge to investigate the matter. As the results of these two investi- gations were rendered at nearly the same time, and were substantially the same, we will give that of Mr. Hale, which is as follows : — An account of y*^ Settlements in Monadnock Xo. five, calletl Xew ]\Iarlborough * in y*^ province of Xew Hampshire. Dra't. 1. Thomas Wilson, settled by Thomas Riggs. 2. Henry Xeal. 3. .Tames Lyon, settled by Joshua Tucker. 4. Thomas Cochran, settled by James Tiffany. 5. William Gilmore, settled by Richard Tozer. 6. Robert Wilson, settled by AVilliam Adams. 7. John AVarson, settled by Joseph Peck. 8. ILalbert Morrison. Jonathan Xicholds made some improvement. 9. Sanniel ^lorrison, settled by John Felton. 10. Andrew Armer, settled by Lsaac ^IcAlister. 11. Isaac Cochran, settled by Abel Woodwart. 12. Samuel Allison, settled by David Warrin. 13. Archibald Dunlap, settled by Bennidick A\'eliber. 14. John Gilmore, settled by Benjamin Tucker. 15. Samuel Steel. Called Duty free. *This is the earliest date at which the name of Marll)orouf;h aiipears in connection with the town?hii). o2 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. 10. Robert Allen, settled by Jonathan Goodenow. 17. James Moore. Called Duty free. 18. Thomas JNlcClary, settled by Jonathan Shaw. • 19. James AYilson, settled by Jonah Harrington. 20. John Morrison, settled by Silas Hooker; made some improvements. 21. John AA'ilson, settled by James Grossman. 22. Samuel ]\litchel. settled by Thaddevis Hastings ; made some improve*. 23. Samuel Cochran, settled by James Brewer. 24. James Morrison, settled by Benja. Tucker, Jr. 25. Hugh Montgomery. Called duty free. 26. John Moor, settled by Richard Robards. 27. Robert Moor, settled by Stephen Church, Single man, 1. acre im- proved some acres girdled. 28. Samuel Wilson, settled by Samuel Bishop. 29. Thomas Morrison. 30. David Morrison, settled by Daniel Goodenow. 31. Robert Clark, settled by Joseph Collins. 32. John Cochran, settled by William Barker. 33. Samuel Allison, settled by Silas Fife. James Wilson Sen'' have one single share containing one hundred and fifty acres no duty to be done sooner than the last duties on the doul)le shares, which contains four hundred and fifty acres to each share. A true account of all the Settlements Err^ Excep"", per ENOCH HALE. April 24'i>, 1770. This account of settlements is interesting from the fact that it gives us a certain knowledge as to aa'Iio Avere the inhabitants of the town at so early a date. Of these set- tlers, twenty-seven in number, all had families except William Adams, Silas Hooker, Thaddens Hastings, Stephen Church, and Silas Fife ; and of this number, Thaddeus Hastings and Silas Fife afterwards married and raised up large families in this town ; the other three remained here but a short time, and then dej^arted, no one knows Avhither. This account of Col. Hale seems to have been satisfac- tory and to have ended the controvers}^ as we hear no more concerning the delinquent grantees ; and it is probable that they seeing the matter was to be investigated, made haste and settled their rights, as we find in this report that several of those who had been complained of as delinquent, were reported by Col. Hale as settled. SETTLEMENTS, ETC. 38 During this period Joseph Collins had built a saw and grist-mill in the iiortli part of the township on the Riehardson brook near tlie bridge east of the place where Stillman Richardson now resides. This was the first frrist- mill erected in town. Not far from this time, Abijah Tucker built a saw and grist-mill on the site of the mill now owned by the Monadnock Blanket Company. The erection of these two mills did much towards advancinor the settlement of the town. Previous to this there was no grist-mill within six miles, and the early settlers must have hailed with joy the erection of one in their midst ; for carrying grain on their backs that distance through the woods over a rocky, rough, and uneven country with only marked trees to guide their steps, could have been no easy task. 1769. Ebenezer Dexter wdio up to this time had held the office of Proprietors' clerk, died; and by virtue of a warrant issued by Thomas Frink of Keene, a justice of the peace, the Proprietors assembled on the 3d of January, 1770, at the house of Benjaniin Tucker, for the purpose of choos- ing new officers and transacting other important business relating to the township. At this meeting Benjamin Tucker acted a consj)icuous part: he was not only moderator and clerk, but was also chosen treasurer, chairman of the board of assessors, and chairman of several committees. It was at this meeting that the Proprietors voted to build the meeting-house ; the measures adopted for this purpose will be noticed in a subse- quent chapter. It was also voted "that every man shall vote in their meetings according to their interest in s^i township." " Voted that the oners of one sixteenth part of the Lands in said township, — Requesting ye Clark to call a meeting, he Shall l)e obliged to do it, b}- Posting a notifica- tion in sd town Ship, and in Marlborough, (Mass.) at some Publick Place near the senter of S'' Town." There was also considerable legislation relating to high- ways in this and subsequent years ; committees were chosen 34 HISTOKY OF MAKLBOROUGH. to lay out and clear roads, and accounts were brought in at every meeting for " Worck done in ye Roads." The average price paid per day was three shillings. 2^771. There were four Proprietors' meetings this year. Benjamin Tucker was dismissed from the office of clerk, and Stephen Church was chosen in his room. The legisla- tion related mainly to the difficulty which the Proprietors had in settling with Capt. Jesse Rice, a former treasurer, and the executrix of Stephen How deceased, and also Daniel Harrington, — two former collectors. Committees were chosen for the jmrpose of settling with the refractory persons ; but, meeting with no success, they were dismissed, and others were chosen in their stead, who met \yiih no better success than those who had preceded them. At length the Proprietors, M^eary of the delay Avhich had been made in settling, determined to bring the matter to a crisis : they discharged the old committee, and chose Col. John Weeks, Breed Batchellor,* and Silas Gates, " to Reckon & settle with the above mentioned Treasurer, & Col- lectors, and voted that the above committee be impowered to Discharge the said Rice, the former Treasurer, the executrix of Stephen How's istate, and Daniel Harrington, former Collectors, if settled with, or either of them that will Comply to settle." Voted, that the " Committee be, * Major Breed Batchelder was one of the earliest settlers of Packersfield (Nelson). He was a very wealthy man and a large landholder. He settled on the farm now occupied by Oilman Nims in Roxl)ury. He owned a considerable quantity of land in the north part of Marlborough, which gave him the right to vote in the meetings of the I'roprietors. When the Revolutionary war broke out, Batchelder became a Toi-y. His neighbors were so exasperated at his conduct that, in the summer of 1777, he was obliged to leave his family and reside some three months in a cave about eighty rods from his house, not daring to be seen by his neiglibors, who, had they known of his where- abouts, would have captured him, and he would have been shot or hung. The cave where he resided is still known as "Hatchelder's Cave." At length, satisfied that the only way to save his life was to leave the country, he bade his wife and children good-bye and tied. He joined the British army, and was mnde a captain in Lieut. -Col. Peters' corps of the "Queen's Rangers." He was with liis comi)any at the battle of Bennington, where he was severely wounded in the shoulder by a mu.sket-ball. After the war he became very dissipated, and finally was drowned in 1785 by falling from a boat in the Basin of .\nnapoHs. SETTLEMENTS, ETC. 85 and are impowerecl to Bring an action in tliu Law against the said Rice Treasurer, the execntrix ol' llie estate of Stephen How Deceas^ & Daniel Harrington former Col- lectors, or either of them tliat will not comply to settle." In order to post themselves in all the formalities of the law, Joseph Collins was instructed to buy a Law Book for the use of the Proprietors. The committee, now armed witli this legal authority, at once proceeded to perform the duties assigned them. The delinquent officers satisfied that the Proprietors now "meant business," and seeing they could no longer hold back without being in danger of the law, readily closed in with the proposals made by the com- mittee, and came to a settlement. The terms upon which this settlement was made, are shown by the following- report rendered by the committee, and accepted at a meeting of the Proprietors, December 10, 1772: — We the Subscribers being appointed by the Proprietors of monad'', No. 5, as a Comitee to recon and Settle with Capt. Jese Rice Former Tresur for said Proprietors aforesaid, that we have Recond with the said Rice, and find that he has Payed out to Defray Proprietors Charges, Between four and five Pounds Lawful money more than he has Received, besides his Trouble of being Treasurer, and we have given said Rice a Discharge in full of all accounts, and all demands that y'' Proprietors have against him as being Treasurer for said Proprietors, and have taken a receipt in full of all accounts that the said Rice has against s^ pro- prietors ; the said Rice Throwing in the sum above mentioned and his service as being Treasurer, for the needless cost that he has put said Proprietors to for not settling when requested, and the Settlement made with Dan^ Harrington, Collector, may be seen by a paper bearing date July the 27*'' 1771, wherein we Turned over the said Harrington to L' Tucker the Present Treasurer, or to his Successors in said Office, with the whole account of what we have done towards a Settlement with him ; and as to the rate Committed to Stephen How Deceased, we have not as yet Discharged the said deceased widow, but have taken the rate into our hands as it appears that a number are not Crosed, to Examine and notifie Those that have Paid and Crosed to make it appear if paid, witness our hands this 9* Day of September 1772. Sn.AS GATES , ^ ., y Comitee. BREED BATCHELOR 36 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROUGH. There was a rapid increase in the nnmber of settlers at this period, and many new names ap})ear in the records of the Proprietors. Among this number were Richard Tozer, with a family of six children, from Southborough; James Lewis, wife, and eight or nine children, also from Southborough; Ebenezer Rhodes, with his wife and one son, from Walpole, Mass.; Eliphalet Stone (who had not yet removed his family) ; Thaddeus Hastings and Daniel Emerson, both of whom were without families ; there were several others whose residence here was so short that we know but little about them or their families. 1772. Only two meetings of the Proprietors were held this year, and nothing of importance was done beyond choosing new officers and raising money for building and repairing highways. 1773. At a meeting, April 1, all officers were dis- missed, and new ones chosen in their place. Eliphalet Stone was chosen clerk and treasurer; James Brewer, col- lector; Jonah Harrington, Richard Roberts, John Felton, and Richard Tozer, highway survej^ors ; James Brewer, Andrew Colburn, and Eliphalet Stone, assessors; Lieut. Andrew Colburn, Lieut. Benjamin Tucker, and Richard Tozer were chosen a committee to survey, mark, and bound the roads, and make a return, in order to have the same recorded. The following year this committee reported twelve roads, the greater part of which were laid out three rods wide. This year the question of incorporation was pro})osed for the first time, and an article relative to this was placed in the warrant for a meeting held June 2fS, which, after being duly considered, was passed in the negative. 1774. A meeting was held on the 19th of January, at which it was voted to "• Licorporate said Township Into a Town." "-Voted that Eliphalet Stone, Andrew Colburn, and Lieut Bcuia Tucker, be a committee to u'it it done." SETTLEMENTS, ETC. 37 "Voted to raise half peney on Each acre in said Township for the purpose at'ore Said." "Voted that the above said committee sliall endeavor that said Township he Incorpo- rated after one of the three following names, viz: Oxford, Salsbiiry, or Worcester." Whether an attempt was made at this time to get the township incorporated, does not now appear. We find nothing on the Proprietors" records, or in the journal of the Provincial Congress, to indicate that there was any petition presented; neither do we find that this committee ever made a report. The legislation of this jear was mostly concerning the meeting-house, and for providing preaching ; and the records indicate that the people were anxious to settle a minister. In striving for this, they met with many difficulties, owing to the fact, they were not an incorporated town; and this, probably, was one of the main objects which led them the following year to pnt forth still greater efforts for the accomplishment of their purpose. 1775. At a meeting in "March, Lieut. Benjamin Tucker, Eliphalet Stone, and Thomas Riggs, were chosen a committee to get the township incorporated. These gentlemen petitioned to the Provincial Congress for an act of incorporation. The petition was read July 6, 1775, and Congress having taken the same under consideration it was resolved " That it be & hereby is recommended to the said Town of Monad- nock, No. V, that they proceed to choose as soon as may be, the several Town officers, which may be necessary for the internal Government of s^ Town, such as Selectmen, Constable &c, as are chosen in other Towns in this Colony at their annual Town meeting ; also that they choose a Committee of Safety, or of Corrispondence for s'' Town, and also that the s,'^ town (if occasion requires it) may use the money in the hands of Mr. James Lewis for the purpose of purchasing of fire arms and ammunition, and for w^h money sd Towne is to be accountable to this Colony or Congress 38 HISTORY OP MARLBOEOUGH. and County of Cheshire, when Demanded, and further it is Resolved, that Mr. Jonathan Frost be & hereby is appointed by this Congress the moderator of the first meeting in s^ Town and that j\Iessrs. Jonathan Frost, Benj^ Tucker and Thomas Riggs, be & hereby are impowered to call s^i meeting." We learn from a subsequent petition that the recommen- dations of Congress were complied with ; a meeting was held and officers chosen. No records of this meeting have been preserved, and we have no means of knowing who were chosen to fill the various offices. No charter was given at this time, and this partial organization only served to perplex the people and throw them into greater difficulties than before ; for they were very much in doubt whether the Provincial Congress intended they should enjoy equal privileges with other towns, or not. Accordingly, in order to extricate themselves from this difficulty, in Sep- tember they presented to the Provincial Congress then in session the following — PETITION. Province of / New Hampshire. I MoNADNOCK N" 5, September 28"', 1775. To the Hono''' Congress of Said Province, Whereas Iu the month of July last the Congress See fit to grant us privilidges which before we was Destitute of, and for whicli we do express our gratitude, viz. In recommending to us to choose Town officers, such as Select men, Constable and a Committee of Safety, all which we have don, but as it is a Doubt whether the Congress Intended we should Injoy privilidges equil to Towns Incorporated by a Governor; or not, and as we have a desire to Settle a Minister in this Town, and as we have one a preaching here whome the people miiversally like, — We, therefore, pray the Congress to Incorporate Said N" 5, by the name of Washington, and appoint a Day for our Annual meeting. In so Doing your Honours would much oblige your Humble petitioners, JONATHAN FROST, ■) Committee ELIPHALET STONE, V In behalf of Monad- THO. RIGGS, J nock. No. Five. SETTLEMENTS, ETC. 80 This was a most mifortuiiate time for the i)rfS('iitatioii of such a petition. Already had hostilities eommeiieed with Great Britain, and the Provineial (Jono-ress which was then in session had more weighty and important business to attend to ; and there is no record to be found among the State papers to show that this petition was ever acted upon. This year IMonadnock No. V united with Dul)lin, and was represented by Eliphalet Stone in the fifth Provincial Congress, which assembled at Exeter, December 21st. This Congress continued in session until the fifth day of the following Jannar}- ; then, by leave of the " Hon'''% The Continential Congress, they Resolved themselves into a House of Representatives, or Assemldy for the Colony of New Hampshire." The proceedings of this Congress related mainlj- to the establishment of post-oflices, a committee of supplies for the army, and a committee of safety. This committee, under the leadership of Hon. Meshach Weare, acted with great boldness and judgment in the affairs of the Province, and soon after of the State, placing " New Hampshire in the fore- most rank both in j^oint of influence and achievements." 1770. Tl^^ partial organization Avhich had been granted in 1775 to the inhabitants of Monadnock No. V was not deemed sufficient to overcome the difficulties under which they labored for the want of incorporation, and in September of this year Eliphalet Stone presented to the House of Representatives then convened at Exeter the following — PETITION. State of New Hampshire. To the Hon'"''' the Council and house of Representatives Convened at Exeter, Sepf 5, 1776, Humbly shows Eliphalet Stone, of a place Called New Marlborough in tlie County of Cheshire, Gent, in Behalf of the freeholders and Inhabitants of said place. That your Petitioners, under a title from the Purchasers of the Right of John Tufton Mason VjSif did enter into and upon the premises & have with Great Toil & Lai tor formed Settlements for themselves & families. 40 HISTORY OF IMARLBOROUGH. That the said tract of Land is "Well Situated for a Township, & of the Contents of about Six Miles Square. That yoxu- Petitioners have Erected a Meeting-hoiise for Public Worship, & had preaching-, That they Labor imder Difficulties for want of an Incorporation wliicli Coud they Obtain are perswaded would be for tlie Public Good, Wherefore, your Petitioners humbly pray tl^at they may be Incorpo- rated in to a Body Politick, to have Continuance & be Invested with all the powers, Priviledges, & Immunities that other Towtls in this State by Law hold & Enjoy, and your Petitioners as in Duty bound Will ever pray, &c., ELIPHALET STONE In the foregoing petition it will be noticed that the inhabitants expressed no wish as to the name of the town ; but it was probably understood by all concerned that the name should be Marlborough. Although the meetings of the Proprietors were always called under the name of Monadnock No. V, yet the place was known by the name of New Marlborough as early as 1770. This name originated, no doubt, from the fact the majority of the early settlers were natives, or had been long residents of Marlljorough, Middlesex County, Mass. ; and very many of the Proprietors were residents of that place. At the time of incorporation, the qualifying word "New" was dropped, leaving the name which it now bears. We here present the charter as it is found in the town records : — In the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six. STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE. An act to incorporate a place called New Marl- borough in the County of Cheshire. Wliereas a petition has been preferred to the General Court in behalf of the inhabitants of that tract of land called New jMaiiborough in the County of Cheshire, setting forth that they labor under difficulties for want of an incorjioration, and praying that they may be incorporated, of which due notice has been given & no objection has been made, and it appearing for the public good. Be it therefore enacted by the Coucil and Assembly that there be & hereby is a township erected and incorporated by the name of Marl- borough within the following bounds, (viz) Beginning at the northwest corner of Dublin, and from thence running North eighty degrees West, three miles and a half bv Packertield to a beech tree standino- iu the East SETTLEMENTS, ETC. 41 line of Keene ; thence rnnning Sontherly by Keene and Swanzey seven miles, three quarters & forty rods, to the Northwest corner of Fitzwill- iam; from thence South eighty degrees East, about four miles by the North line of Fitzwilliam, till it comes to the West line of Jaffrey ; & from thence running North by the needle by Jaffrey and Dublin to the bounds first mentioned; and tlie inhabitants of said tract of land erected into a, body politic & corporate, to have continuance & succession forever, and are hereby invested with all the powers, and enfranchised with all the rights, privileges & immunities which any towns in this State hold and enjoy : to hold to the said inhabitants and successors for ever. And Mr. Thomas Riggs is hereby authorized to call a meeting of said iidiab- itants, to choose all necessary and customary town officers, giving four- teen days notice of the time, place & design of such meeting, & such officers shall hereby be invested with all the powers of the officers in any other town in this State. And every other meeting which shall be annu- ally held in said town for that purpose shall be on the second Tuesday of March for ever. State of New Hampshire. In House of Representatives, December, the ninth, A.D. 1776. The foregoing bill having been three times read, voted that it should pass to be enacted. JONA LOVEWELL, Speak, P. T. In Council, Decembei', the 13*, 1776 this bill was read a third time and voted that the same be enacted. M. WEARE Pres. D. The public interests which had been controlled b}' the Proprietors were now in part assumed by the town. As the Proprietors were somewhat in del)t, and still laid claim to the meeting-house, they continued to hold meetings from time to time as necessity required, until 1801, when, having discharged their debts, the}" gave over their papers to the town, and their organization was dissolved. Although the town was incorporated December 13, no town-meeting was held until the annual meeting, the 11th of March, 1777. At this meeting the town officers for the ensuing year were chosen, but no other business was transacted. The record of this meeting, and also a copy of the charter, are found in the town records, in the handwriting of David Wheeler, the first town clerk. The record of this meeting is given entire. 42 HISTORY OF MAELBOEOUGH. ' >• State of New Hampshire Cheshire ss 11"', 1777. i Having Received a coppy of incorporation act marlborough in said State, Wherein I the Subscriber Being appointed By the Honorable general Court of s'^ State, to cal the first annual meeting in order to Chose all Nesesary and Custuinary Town officers, have warned Said meeting to meet at the meeting House in said jMarlborough, on Tues* the Eleventh Day of march 1777, at ten O Clock in the morning, at which time and Place Preceded as follows, (viz) first made choice of nV thonias Kigg, moderator for said meeting, Secondly Chose David "^^^leeler Town Clark,* thirdly Chose Cap* James Lewis Treasurer, Chose Cap* James Lewis first Selectman; Chose Liu* Eliph" Stone Second Select- man; Chose m"" Richard Towzar third Selectman; Chose m"" Abel Woodard Constable, Voted that the Selectmen Be the Sessors (viz) Cap' James Lewis, Leu* Eliph'' Stone and Richard Towzer; Chose m'' Daniel Cutting Survior for the South west quarter of Marlborough; Chose William Tiney Survior for the South East quarter of said Town ; Chose Phinehas Parks for the Survior for the North west quarter of Said Town ; Chose m"" Theodore man Survior for the North East quarter of Said Town, Chose m'' Silas Fife and m"" Jedediah Taintor Tithering- men ; Chose m"' David Deufor and m"" Samuel Bishop, Dear Reaffs ; Chas Egn Richard Robards, Liu* Eliph'' Stone, David Wheeler, and m'' Reuben Ward, hog Reafs ; Chose Cap* James Lewis, David A\nieeler, m"" Thomas Riggs, m'' Oliver Wright, and m'' Benony Robens, a Committee of Safty ; Chose m"" Richard atwell, m"" Jedediah Taintor, m"" Jonathan goodenow, and m"" Thadeus Hastings, fence vewers ; all of the above Chosen Said officers to serve the insuing year. Voted that this meeting Be Dasolved, Thomas Riggs moderator ; Recorded from the miuuts pr DAVID WHEELER, Toivn Clark. The reader will notice that in the foregoing record several offices are mentioned which are not in nse at the present day, as tithingmen, deer-reeves, and hog-reeves. It was the duty of the tithingmen to keep order during public worship on the Sabbath ; and in addition to this duty they were expected to stop all needless travel on the Sabbath. As a badge of office, each tithingman was to have a black staff two feet long, with al^out three inches of one end tipped with brass or pewter. The laAv required that all persons chosen to this office should be " of good substance and sober life " ; but the law was not always complied with in this *0n the old records this is invariably written Clark. SETTLEMENTS, ETO. 43 respect, for men were sometimes elioscii avIiosc love of gain was so great, they would not hesitate to take a bril)e, and allow the offending- traveller to go on his way rejoieing. It is related that on one occasion a young man who had been to sea, and was on his way home to visit his mother, was passing through this town one Sabbath morning, wlien he was accosted by a venerable man who held the office of tithingman, who asked him if he did not know it was "against the hiw to travel on the Sabbath." The young- man explained to him his circumstances, but the officer was inexorable ; and the poor man finding that he could make no impression upon him, offered him a dollar, stating at the same time it was all the money he had. The bribe was accepted, and the man was j)ermitted to pursue his journey. It was the duty of deer-reeves to expose any person who killed deer at unseasonable times of the year. These officers were chosen but a few years, as the deer became extinct and there was no longer any need of their services. The duties of the hog-reeves, though not laborious, yet when called for, were rather unpleasant to perform. In those days swine were allowed to run at large, if properly yoked and ringed ; and it was the duty of the owners to see that this was done as required by law : but in case they neglected it, then it became the duty of the hog-reeve to yoke and ring them, and recover from the owner thereof one shilling for yoking and sixpence for ringing each swine. It was the custom to choose every man lately married as hog-reeve. It sometimes happened that men who were " old and well stricken in years" would be chosen to this office, having- for the second time entered the matrimonial state. This was the case with Esq. Sweetser who, after being chosen to said office, arose in town-meeting, and in his {quaint manner thanked his friends for the honor conferred upon him, but begged to be excused on account of the infirmities of age, which, should he be called upon to per- form the duties of his office, would prevent his " catching the d — d hoo-s."" This was deemed a sufficient excuse, and the town voted ''to excuse ^Ir. Sweetser from serving as hog-reeve." 4-1 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. For five years previous to the incorporation of the town, there was a rapid increase in the number of settlers. A large number of these were influential men, and their descendants have become useful and valuable citizens. Among this number may be mentioned David Wheeler, Reuben Ward, and Jedediah Tayntor, from jNIarlborough, Mass.; David Thurston, froni Leominster; Jonathan Frost, from Sherburn ; William Tenney, from Littleton, Mass. ; and Robert Converse and Oliver Wright, residence unknown. The whole number of inhabitants at this time must have been less than four hundred. The following inventor}' of taxable ijroperty for 1777 shows that the inhabitants had not only met Avith tolerable success in clearing and bringing their lands into a state of cultivation, but were good livers and rapidly increased in wealth : — Inventory of Marlborough, 1777. No. Tolls 18 yrs. & over, 76 " Acres arable or tillage land, . . . ' 82 " " mowing " 403 " " pastui-e " 423 " Horses & Mares, 34 " Colts 3 yi-s. old, 1 a u 9 " " 7 (( u -^ a u \ " Oxen, 04 « Cows, 107 " Cattle 3 yi-s. old, 39 " " 2 " " 30 " " 1 " " 38 Sum total of money in hand and at interest, £253. G. 4. Sum total o|; Real Estate, £608.'). 10. 0. *Sum total, £141. 12. 7. Proportion to 1000, £ — £4. 6. As the main occurrences of this and succeeding years relate mainly to the part which Marlborough sustained during the war of the Revolution, we will pause here, leaving those events to be chronicled in another chapter. *I pi'esume this means the assessed value of cattle, horses, &c. CHAPTER III. REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. The Amp:ricax Rkvoi.utiox, ax Impoktaxt Evknt ix Histokv. — COXDITIOX OF THE TOWX AT THE COMMEXCEMEXT OF THE WaR. — Resi'lt of THE Battle of Coxcokd and Lexingtox. — Battle OF BrxKER Hill. — Loss of Arms axd Clothixg. — Report of the SELECTMEX. — EXPEDITIOX AGAIXST QUEBEC. — JACOB AXl) Pe ARSON Neavell. — The Fourteexth Regimext. — Tories Djsarmeb. — AssociATiox Test. — Discharge of Bexjamix Goodexoav. — GoL. Baldavix's Regimext. — Alarm axd Defexsia^e Measures. — Bouxties Offered. — Battle of Stillavater. — Lieut.-Col. AXDREAV COLBURX. — AlARM AT TiCOXDEROGA. — CAI^T. LeAVIS' Compaxy. — Three Mex at the Battle of Bexxixgtox. — Eight Mex IX Col. Moor's Regimext. — Elea^ex Mex ix Col. Hale's Regimext. — Report of the Selectmex, 1780. — Mex called FOR AXD Measures takex to Fill the Quota. — Coxtixextal Moxey. — Letter to the Committee of Safety. — Names of those aa'ho Served ix the Army at Differext Times. — Some AccouxT of Soldiers avho afteravards became Ixhabitants of the Toavx. — Alexaxder Fish. The American Revolution is one of the most interestinof events in modern history. Changes equally great, and con- vulsions equally violent, have taken place ; and history tells us of many instances in Avhich oppression urged beyond endurance has called forth the spirit of successful and triumphant resistance. But in this event Ave see feeble colonies Avithout an army, Avithout a navy, Avithout a revenue, A\'ithout munitions of Avar, Ijoldly stepping forth to meet the A^eteran armies of a poAverful and A'indictiA'e nation. We see these colonies amidst Avant, povert}', and mis- fortune, supported by the perA^ading spirit of liberty, and guided by the hand of a good Providence, for nearl}^ eight years sustaining the Aveight of a cruel conflict upon their OAvn soil. 46 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROUGH. At length we witness them victorious. Their enemies sul- lenly retire from their shores, and they stand forth enrolled on the page of history as a free and independent nation. What people can dwell with more just satisfaction upon their history than ours? Almost all others trace their foundation to some ambitious and blood-thirsty leader who sought only to aggrandize himself by enslaving others. We may with truth say that our independence was won by the people who fought for the natural rights of man. Whenever we advert to this portion of our history, and review it as Avell we may with patriotic pride, let us not forget the gratitude we owe to those who " fought and bled and died" for us, as well as to that benignant Providence who stayed the proud waves of British tyraiuiy. In giving this part of the history of Marll)orough relating to the Revolutionary war, it will not be necessary to detail the causes which led to the struggle for American Inde- pendence ; these are too well known to require reiteration here. At the time of the breaking out of hostilities with Great Britain, Marlborough was but sparsely populated. There could not have been more than sixty men in all the town who were capable of bearing arms; the greater part of whom were heads of families, who found it extremely diffi- cult to provide food and clothing for themselves and those dependent on them. When we consider this, we can see that had they been ever so much inclined to join their companions in the camp and field, they could only have done so at the risk of bringing upo]i their families privation and suffering. But these men were ardently attached to liberty, and were not wanting in patriotism ; nor were they indifferent to the interests of their country in its struggle for independence. On the 19th of April, 1775, that movement occurred which opened the war of the Revolution. That day's experience at Lexington immeasurably increased the courage of the Americans : as its tidings spread, the voice of war rang through the land, and preparations were everywhere made to carry it forward to a successful cud. EEVOLUTIONAKY HISToUV. 47 It is to be regretted the public records give so liKlc inforniiitioii concerning the residents of tliis town -vvlio served in tlie army during the Revolutionary war. To make the list complete the most faithful research has been made, not only of the town records, but of the militar}^ papers in the office of the Adjutant-General at Concord. We cannot learn as any of our citizens were j^resent at the battle of Concord and Lexington, l)ut immediately following that action a large number of troops from New Hampshire joined the arni}^ then assembled near Boston ; and among them were six men from this town, viz.: INIoses Tucker, Timothy Rogers, Robert Worsley, Daniel Collins, Lieut. James Brewer, and Pearson Newell. These men were all in the Third New Hampshire Regiment, connnanded by Col. James Reed of Fitzwilliam, and participated in the battle of Bunker Hill, June 17, 1775. Moses Tucker and Pearson Newell were in Capt. Jonathan Whitcomb's company; Timothy Rogers, in Capt. Phillip Thomas' com- pany; Lieut. James BreAver, Robert Worsley, and Daniel Collins, in Capt. Benjamin jNIann's company. This regiment was stationed for a season at Medford, luit on the 12th of June received orders from Gen. Ward to march to Charlestown Neck, for the purpose of guarding the ferry at that place. At the battle of Bunker Hill, the NcAV Hampshire troops took their position behind a rail fence between the redoubt and the Mystic River. Here they threw up a breastwork of stones across the beach to the river, extending the fence down the hill to the wall. This hastily-constructed parapet served an excellent pur- pose, as those behind it could take a most deadly aim at the advancing foe ; and it is an established fact that the British troops in front of this wall were almost completely annihilated. The following are the articles lost and the amount paid to the several men in behalf of the Colon v: — £ s. £ s. Moses Tucker, . . 2. 8. Rol>ert A\'orsley, 15. Pearson Xewell. o s. Daniel Collins, . . 8. Timothy Kogers, . 15. L' Brewer, . . . (5. 11, 48 HISTORY OF MAKLBOROUGH. The articles lost for Avldeli the above sums were })aid were as folloAvs : — Moses Tucker st. Bod, d coat. Pearson Xewell Gun, i^owder-liorn and cartridge-box. Timothy Rogers one shirt. Robert Worsley a pair of Stockings. Daniel Collins a pair of Breeches. James Brewer a pair of Shoes. In August the Provincial Congress sent to the selectmen of the several towns and places in New Hampshire, desiring them to make a return of the number of inhabitants in their respective towns, and also the nund)er of tire-arms fit for use, and the number wanting to complete one for every person capable of using them, and also the quantity of powder in each place. The selectmen of Monadnock No. V. made the following — REPORT. Males under 16 years of age, 104 Males from 16 years of age to 50, not in the army, 54 All Males above 50 years of age, 2 Persons gone in the army, (out of which no. 2 are dead), .... 16 All Females, 148 Negroes and Slaves for life, 824 Monadnock, No. 5, Oct^ S'^ 1775. In Obiediance to the Directions herein given, we have taken a true account of all the persons belonging to this place, and Set the same Down in the Collums above, also an acct of Fire arms fit for Use (viz.) 26, & the nund)er wanting is 28. Powder 5 1-2 lb. those persons that are gone in tlie army have furnished them Selves with Fire Amies. BEXJA TUCKER? Selectmen of ELTPLA STOXE J Monadnock Xo. 5. The comparative population of the town at this time with others in this vicinity will l)e seen by their returns : Jaffrey, 351; Marlow, 207; Nelson, 18G ; I)ul)liii, 305; Peterbor- ough, 549 ; Keene, 758. Of the sixteen who were in tlie army at this period we know l)ut little: it is jjrohablc that Lieut. James Brewer IIEVOMTTIONAKV IllS'nUtV. 40 iind 'Piiiiotliy Ho^xts -wi'Vi' aiuoiin' tliis iiuinhrr. iiiid icmaiiKMl ^\■itll the army in the vii-iiiity of Hostoii until tlie close of tliu year. Robert Worsley M'as another: lie was in tht- cxpcditidn against Quebec, under (Icn, Arnold. This expedition left Cambridge in September, and marched to Newbnryport, and proceeded tlience by water to the head of navigation on Kennebec River, thence through the forests of INIaine and Canada to Quebec. Seldom was there an expedition attempted during the Revolution in which more hardship was endured or more untiring perseverance manifested than in this of Arnold's. In ascending the Kennebec, his troops were constantly obliged to work against an. impetuous current, and often to haul their bateaux up rapids and over dangerous falls; nor was their march through the country by an unexplored route of three hundred miles less difficult or dangerous. They had swamps and woods, mountains and precipices, alter- nately to cross. Added to other trials, their provisions failed; and to support life they were obliged to eat their dogs, cartouch-boxes, clothes, and shoes. While at the distance of one hundred miles from human habitations, they divided their whole store, about four pints of flour to a man ; Avlien thirty miles distant, they had baked and eaten their last morsel: yet the courage and fortitude of these men was unshaken. They were suffering for their country's cause, and contending for the rights and blessings of free- dom. After thirty-one days of incessant toil through a hideous wilderness, they came to a settlement. ]\[r. Worsle}' in his later j-ears was fond of relating anec- dotes illustrating the sufferings and privations through which he passed while on this expedition; some of these are mentioned in Mr. McCollester's Centennial Address. Jacob Newell, Jr., was also in the army at this time; he joined the expedition tliat was sent to Canada, and was stationed several months at Ticouderoga. His brother, Pearson, was one of the two who were reported as d}ing in the army. 9 50 UlSTOltY OF MAltLBOllOUGH. Of tlie renin iiiiiig- luiniber of this little company we can give no information, as no army rolls of this date have been found. About this time the State was divided into seven- teen geographical regiments, and a colonel was appointed over each, whose duty it was to see that his proportion of the soldiers ro(][uired was raised. The Fourteenth Regiment was composed of the towns of Rindge, New Ipswich, Jaffrey, Peterborough, Temple, Fitzwilliam, Duldin, Marlljorough, Stoddard, Nelson, Washington, and Sharon. Enoch Hale of Rindge was appointed colonel of this regiment, Nov. 2, 1775. In iNIarch, 1776, the Continental Congress took measures to disarm all persons who were notoriously opposed to the cause of America. They passed a resolution on the subject, a copy of which was transmitted to all the Colonies. The Committee of Safety for New Hampshire, under the leader- ship of Hon. ^Meshach Weare, immediately sent to the sev- eral towns a copy of this resolution, and also a pledge of loyalty for the citizens of each town to sign. This pledge was called the "Association Test "; all those who refused to sign it were supposed to be Tories, and were looked upon by their neighbors with suspicion. The original paper containing the signatures of fifty of the citizens of ]Monadnock No. V. was found in the office of the Secretary of State at Concord, from Avhich the fol- lowing copy was made : — COLONY OF NEW IIAMPSIIIIJK, &C. COMMITTEE OF SAFETY. April, 12, 1770. To the Selectmen of Monadnock, No. Jive: In order to carry tlie uiider- ^s•ritten RESOLVE of the Honorable Continental Congress into execu- tion, you are requested to desire all Males above twenty-one years of age, (lunatics, idiots and negroes excepted,) to sign the DECLARATION on this iniper, and when so done, to make return thereof together with the name, or names of all who shall refuse to sign the same to the (iEX- EUAL, ASSEMBLY, or Conunittee of Safety of this Colony. :\I. AVEARE, Cliairnian. IIKVOLUTIONAKV MISTOUY. ",1 IN" CONGRESS, Maucii, U"' 1770. Resolved, That it l)e i-econiincMuled to the several A.s,senil)li(.'s, Couvoii- tions and Councils, or Connnittees of Safety of the United States imme- diately to cause all persons to be disarmed ^v'\th\u their respective Colonies, who are notoriously disaffected to the cause of A^NIEHICA, or who ha\e not associateil and refused to associate to defend by ^VUMS the United Colonies against the hostile attempts of tlie British Fleet and Armies. Extract from the minutes, CHARLES THOMPSON, Secretary. In consequence of the aliove Resolution of the Continental CON- GRESS, and to show our determination in joining our American breath- ren in defending the lives, liberties and properties of the inhabitants of the UNITED COLONIES ; We, the Subscribers, do hereby solemnly engage and promise that we will to the utmost of our power, at the risk of our lives and fortunes, with ARMS oppose the hostile proceedings of the British Fleets and Armies against the United American COLONIES. This was signed by the returned by the selectmen : - Benjamin Tucker. Jonathan Frost. Thomas Riggs. Abijah Tucker. Eliphalet Stone. Benoni Robbins. Phinehas Park. Silas Fife. Abel Woodard. Benjamin Goodenow. Berodick "Webber. Samuel Bishop. John McBride. Daniel Collins. Joseph Cutting. James Lewis. Joseph Collins. James Field. Isaac McAllester. Timothy Biemies. Ebenezer Ilixson. «\ John Tozer. Stephen ^Voodard. Moses Tucker. Oliver Wri"-ht. following persons, and duly David Wheeler. John Felton. Richard Tozer. -^ Daniel Emerson. Dfmiel Goodenow^ Thaddeas Hastings. Reuben Ward. Elnathan Newton. Jonah Harrington. WiUiam Adams. Jedediah Tayntor. William Tenney. Richard Robbards. Ebenezer Rhodes. James Brewer. Solomon Woodward. James Flood. David Dufer. ms Abraham + Brooks. Mark Jonathan Goodenow. Daniel Cutting. David Thurston. Jacob Newell. Robert Converse. Theodore Mann. 52 HISTORY OF IVrARLBOROUGH. MONADNOCK, XO. FiVE, Julj, JQ 9"', 1776. In obedience to the witliin Riten we have ofered the same to all our inhabitants and they have all sined excepting those whose names are heare under liiten ; William Barker. Icabard Shaw. Richard Atwell. Daniel Lawrence. Jonathan Shaw. BEXJAMIX TUCKER, ^ Selectmen of THOMAS RIGGS, \ Monadnock ELTPHALET STONE, J Xo. five. Tradition tells us that William Barker, although he refused to affix his name to this resolution, was not a Tory at heart, but, holding an office under the king, and not knowing certain which party would in the end become victorious, he withheld his name rather as a matter of prudence than from any disaffection towards the cause of the colonists. Richard Atwell so far overcame his scruples that he enlisted and joined the army at Rhode Island. Jonathan and Ichabod Shaw were probably Tories indeed ; but, know- ing that the sharp eye of the Committee of Safety was upon them, they remained quiet and peaceable, and as such were undisturbed. Daniel Lawrence was, we are informed, at the battle of Banker Hill, but why he refused to sign his name to this resolution is a mystery that, at this late day, we are unable to solve. hi July, 1776, a regiment of New Hampshire militia was raised to reinforce the army in Canada, but joined the northern army then commanded by Gen. Gates. This regiment, commanded by Col. Isaac Wyman of Keene, remained in the vicinity of Ticonderoga nearly five months, and suffered much from sickness. On the roll of Capt. Joseph Parker's company in this regiment, we find the names of Benjamin Goodenow, Abel Woodward, and Peter Tozer, who enlisted for five months. Benjamin Goodenow was discharged before the expiration of his term of enlist- ment for reasons set forth in the following: REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. 5:] DISCIIARGK. Mount Indki'endknck, October (lie 11"', 177(j. This May Certify, that Benjamin (xoodenow, a Trivate in Cap' Joseph Parker's Comjiany, of Col" Isaac Wynians Regiment, is rendered unfit for future Service this Campain, by Reason of a Slow intermitting fever, these six Weeks past, And is hereby Recommended for a Discharge. To Col" ^Vyman. SAML WIGGLES AVORTH, Surgeon. In consequence of the above certificate, and convinced that the complaint of Benjamin Goodenow is not fictitious, I Recommend the said Benjamin Goodenow, Private in Captain Joseph Parker's Company, of the Regiment under my command. Aged Twenty Xine years, about five feet Eight Inches higli, Dark Brown hair, Blue Eyes, Dark Complection, Belonging to the Towai of New Marlborough in Xew Hampshire, New England, as a proper Person to be Discharged from the Army of the United States of America. To The HonW*^ Major Gen^ Gates. ISAAC WYMAN Col" Commanding at Ticonderoga. I, Benjamin Goodenow, Private in Captain Josej:)!! Parkers company of Col" Isaac Wyman's Regiment, do acknowledge that I have Received all my pay and Arrears of all kinds, due to me for my Service in tlie Army of the United States of America. BENJAMIN GOODENOW. Benjamin Goodenow a Private in Cap* Joseph Parker's Company of Col" Isaac Wyman's Regiment, is for the Reason above Mentioned, Discharged from the Service of the United States of America. HORATIO GATES. Given at Head Quarters, 11'" day of October, 1776. In September, another regiment was raised to reinforce tlie army in New York. This was commanded by Col. Xahum Baldwin. The third company in this regiment was commanded by Capt. Abijah Smith, of New Ipswich. The pay-roll of this company gives bnt two men from this town ; viz.^ Daniel Goodenow and Jonah Harrington. This regiment was stationed on Long Island and in the vicinity of New York until tlie first of December, and was under tlie immediate command of Gen. Washington. In the spring of 1777, it was settled in England tliat an invasion of the States should be attempted from tlie north. 54 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. and a communication formed between Canada and New York. The execution of the phm was committed to Gen. Burgoyne who left Canada with seven thousand troops, besides a powerful train of artillery and several tribes of Indians. Measures were immediately taken by the colonists to raise a sufficient number of men to prevent this invasion which now seemed inevitable. Orders were issued to fill the regiments with men enlisted for three years, or during the war. The number required from Col. Enoch Ilale's regi- ment was one hundred and nineteen men ; of this number, Marlborough was to raise six. Calvin Goodenow, Frederick Freeman, and Reuben McAlister immediately offered themselves to help fill the quota. No others being found who signified their willingness to serve their country in this time of peril, a town-meeting was called for the purpose of devising some method to fill their quota. At this meeting, the town voted to give " twenty pounds apiece to the three men that are now to raise. " David Wheeler, Capt. James Lewis, and Ens. Richard Roberts, were chosen a committee to procure the men. The offer of this bounty was sufficient to tempt Adino Goodenow, Timothy Rogers, and Jabez McBride to add their names to the list and complete the quota. The fact that one-half of the number received twenty pounds apiece more than the rest was probably the cause of some dissat- isfaction on the part of those who had volunteered without the promise of any bounty. The town feeling that they had acted unjustly in the matter, called a meeting on the 23d of June, in the warrant for which was an article "to See if the town will Cum into any method, Whereby Each person Liable By Law to pay taxes, may Bare an Equel part with others, in Supporting the american Cause according to their interest Both for the time past and yet to Cum." In response to this article, William Adams, Abijah Tucker, and Richard Tozer, engaged to pay f'alvin (joodenow twenty pounds for his services in BEVOLUTIONAllY HISTORY. 55 the Avar; Stephen Woodward, John Felton, and IMiiiiehas Parks engaged to pay Frederick Freeman twenty ponnds for his services in the war ; and William liarker, Oliver AVright, and David Wheeler engaged to pay Reuben ]\IcAlister twenty pounds for his services in the war, '' if called for." Peter To/.er also enlisted about this time, and received a bounty of twenty pounds, as is shown by the following }>a[)er, which was copied from the original, now on tile in the Adjutant-Generars office at Concord: — A Muster lloll and Pay IvoU of a part of Cap. Daniel Liverniore'.s Coiup ill Col" Scaiuniels Regt mustered at the desire of L' Col. Coll)urn of said Reg' wliich Regiment was raised by the State of New Hamp- sliire for the Coutiiu-ntial Service, 1777. We the SubscriV)ers Do acknowledge that we have recei^'ed of Tho. Sparhawk one of the muster masters for the State of New Hampshire the several sums prefixed to our names. Adiuo Goodenough, May 2 Calvin Goodenough, " " Fredrick Freeman, " 4 'Peter Tozer, " 30 Joseph Porter, June 17 0) jf tn H -> 1 o PQ 0) Marlboro 31 £20 5. 2 " 31 20 5. 2 u 31 20 5. 2 i( 31 20 .5. 2 Chesterfield 29 20 4.10 ^ >^ £20.5. 2 20.5. 2 20.5. 2 20.5. 2 20.4.10 I haA^e mustered the above men able bodied, Effective and have paid them the several sums set against each of their names. THOMAS SPARHAWK ^l.M. These men were in Scammel's regiment, of which Andrew ('oll)urn of this town, was lieutenant-colonel. This regi- ment participated in the battle of Stillwater, September 19, 1777. Never was more bravery and determination shown than on this occasion. By turns the British and Americans drove each other, taking and re-taking the field-pieces, and often mingling in a hand-to-hand wrestle and fight. Scam- mel's regiment was in the thickest of the battle ; it is said 56 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROUGH. the colonel fouglit like a hero, never leaving his post nntil he was wounded and taken off the field. Lieiit.-( Ol. Colbnrn arose that morning with a severe headache, and instead of wearing his hat he tied a handkerchief over his head and entered the battle with his companions. The handkerchief became a mark for the British, and he was killed in the early part of the action. Of the history of this brave and active ofiftcer, but little is known beyond what is recorded here. He is first mentioned in the Propri- etors' records in 1771, and for several 3'ears served as moderator of the meetings. Col. James Reed, in a letter, commended him to the appointing power as a man worthy to receive the commission of captain, asserting that he had had experience in the French war, etc. Frederick Freeman was also killed in the same battle. Adino GoodenoAv was discharged December 18, 1778, by Gen. Poor. In the sj)ring of 1777, the storm of war which had for some time lieen gathering at the North, almost unnoticed by the Americans, began to roll down upon the frontier settle- ments Avitli alarming rapidity. Although the leaders of the Continental army were aware that a large British force had landed at Quebec, from which an invasion was expected, either by way of Oswego or through the valle}' of Lake Champlain, yet, counting on the same dilatory action which had ever characterized the movements of the enemy since the battle of Bunker Hill, they supposed it might be late in the summer before the hostile army would reach the mili- tary posts on Champlain. But in this they were greatly mistaken ; for as soon as the waters of the North became navigable. Gen. Burgoyne landed at Montreal, and in another week his army was march ino- alon<>- the sliores of Lake Champlain. The American generals were greatly surprised at the rapid advance of the enemy; and, having delayed to strengthen their defences, they were but illy prepared to meet so powerful a force. An alarm Avas immediately sounded throughout tlie country, and men A\ere seen in every direction ma veiling toAvard Ticonderoga. R-EVOT.UTIONARY MISTOKV. 57 We do not. learn as any of our citizens enlisted at this time ; but at a second alarm, a few weeks after, James Lewis innnediately enlisted a company of twenty-six men (all but three of them Avere from this town), and marched for the scene of action. Pay Koll of Capt. James Lewis' Company in Col. E. Hale's Regt. which marched, June, 29, 1777, to reinforce the Garrison at Ticonderoga. Capt. James Lewis. Robert Converse. Lieut. Richard Robbins.* James Brewer. Ensign Oliver Wright. Edward Wright.J Sergt. John Rogers. James Dean. Corp^ Benja Goodenougli. Samuel Bishop Jr. John Felton. John Tozer. ' Moses Tucker, Richaixl Tozer. ' Jonathan Harrington. f Eliphalet Stone. Thomas Upham. Phinehas Park. John Lewis. William Tenney. James Bemis. Elnathan iS^e\^'ton. Elijah Park. David Barrass.J James Flood. Ezra Towne.J On the fourth day of their march, they received informa- tion that Gen. St. Clair was about to abandon the fortress, and, the company being ordered to return, soon after disbanded. Gen. Burgoyne now determined to send a large force through Vermont, — or " Ncav Hampshire Grants," as it was then called, — and subjugate New England, As soon as it became known that" this was his object, the Committee of Safety of Vermont sent out expresses to alarm the adjacent States. The legislature of New Hampshire held a session of three days, and divided the militia of the State into brigades, to be commanded by Col. William Whipple and Gen. John Stark. The brigade under Stark was soon filled, and marched to Vermont with instructions "to act in conjunction with the troops of the new State, or any other of the States, or the United States, or separately, as it *This probably means Richard Roberts. t Jonah Harrington. t These three men were probably fn m other towns in this vicinity. 10 58 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. should appear expedient to him for the protection of the people and the annoj^ance of the enemy." For this brigade Capt. Salmon Stone, of Rindge, raised a company of sixty-five men, which was joined to the regiment commanded by Col. Moses Nichols.' In this com- pany jNIarlborough sent three men; viz.^ Isaac McAlister, Sergeant, William Teuney, Corporal, and John Tozer. ^ These men were in the thickest of the fight at the battle of Bennington, and also participated in the stormy scenes prior to and at the surrender of Burgoyne. In September another company was raised in this vicinit}-, and James Lewis was appointed captain. In this company were the following men from Marlborough : — Jedediah Tayntor, Sergeant. John Tozer. John Felton, Corporal. John Lewis. James Bemis. Thomas Upham. Moses Tucker was first lieutenant in the fourtli company of the same regiment which was commanded by Col. Daniel Moore. This regiment joined the army at Saratoga, and was present at the capitulation of the army of Gen. Burgoyne. In the summer of 1778, a French lieet was sent upon our coast to operate against the British who were then in possession of Rhode Island. While this fleet was to act against them seaward, Gen. Sullivan was to attack them by land. New Hampshire famished a brigade of troops for the occasion, commanded by Gen. William Whipple. Col. Enoch Hale, of Rindge had command of a regiment raised in tliis section of the State. In the fourth company of which James Lewis was captain, we find the names of eleven men from Marlborough, as follows: — Moses Tucker, Sergeant. Thaddeous llaystings. John Lewis, Corporal. John ^McBride. David Wheeler. Thomas Kiggs. Phinehas I'ark. Itichard Atwell. Jonathan Goodeiiough. Abijah Tiidccr. Abel Woodward. REVOLUTIOlSrARY HISTORY. 59 James Lewis entered the service August 8tli, and served twenty-three days, for whieli he received £21166-.; Moses Tneker received for his service at this time =£12 4.S'. 4:d. In 1779, the State authorities called for five hundred men to lill up the three Continental battalions from this State. James Lewis and Russell Oliver were hired by the town to enter the service. We find no other enlistments during the year. From the following returns made l)y the selectmen in 1780, it would seem that the town had as yet spent but little in paying bounties to soldiers, and that those who had hitherto entered the service had enlisted more from a sense of duty and love of country tlian for the sake of obtaining a bounty : — To the Honorable general Court of the State of Newhampshire, gentlemen, the town of marlborough Was called upon for six men to Engage for three years, "Which men the towTi made out to acceptance of our head Colonel, as our proportion of Contineutial men. Jabez incBride, Reuben mcalester and timothy Rogers, Received no money of the to\\Ti as a hire, adino goodenow, Calvin goodenow, and Fredarick freeman, have received twenty pounds Each as town Bounty Which the to-s\Ti Paid the tenth Day of april, 17 — (records defaced.) In July, 1779 the town hii"ed two men more for to serve in the Conti- neutial army for the term of one year. Gave to Capt. James Lewis, as a liire, 130 Bushels of Rie and forty pounds of money. Russell Oliver Received 120 Bushels of Rie and iortj pounds money this Being the Whole that the town of marlborough hath paid to the Contineutial Soldiers. AYliich they had to Raise from January the 1, 1777, to Jan- uary ye, 1, 1780. Marlborough Feb. the 9"' 1780. DAVID WHEELER ) Selectmen of OLIVER WRIGHT \ marlborough. There is no record of any enlistments during the year 1780 ; but Feb. 13, 1781, a meeting was held for the purpose of devising some method to fill their (j^uota. The records of this meeting show that it was no easy task to obtain the requisite number of men. They voted first that Adino Goodenow, Calvin Goodenow, and Timothy Rogers, answer for " three of our Quota of Contineutial men Dnring the war." James Brewi-r, Moses Tucker, and Kliphalet Stone. 60 HISTORY OF INIARLBOROLTGH. were chosen a committee to procure the remainder of the quota. Tlie meeting was then adjourned to the 2Gth of the month. At this meeting, it was voted to " Except of the man John Tozer hired during the war and to make Return of him as one of our Quota." Voted, to give "Sixty pounds okl way apeace for Each man for three years, or During the war." Voted, " that the committee get the men Before march meeting, if to Behad for the above Sum." Voted, ".that Mi\ Atwell and L' Brewer go to the muster marster and make Return of thoes men which this town has Engaged During the war." At an adjourned meeting, it was voted "to give mr. Daniel Goodenow three Hundred hard Dolhirs as a hire for his son Ebenezer three years in the Continential Service." Voted, "to pay one hundred DoHars to mr GoodenoAv in one month, one hundred more in two years. Interest to Begin with the second years service." Voted, "to pay mr Goodenow one hundred more in three years Interest to Begin in two years from now." Voted, "that the Selectmen Give notes for the above Sums in Behalf of the town to mr. Goodenow for his son's hire. Voted, that L*. Moses Tucker see the men mustered which this town hires for the army." At the same time Lieut. James Brewer who was moder- ator of the meeting, made the town the following proposals : " If I engage for the town for three j^ears, I will have five hundred dollars continential monej^, one hundred dollars the old way the first year, one half in four months, if I serve six months, and one hundred more for the second year, if I serve six months in the second year, and one hundred more, if I serve the third year six months more." The town accepted these proposals, and the selectmen were instructed to give Mr. Brewer security for the above sums in behalf of the toAvn. One great barrier which rendered it difficult to procure men for the service was the extreme scarcity of hard money. In June, 1775, Congress issued bills of credit to the amount REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. 61 of two millions of dollars. This emission was soon followed by another of one million. For their redemption the con- federated colonies were pledged ; each colony to provide means to pay its proportion by the year 1779. At the expiration of eighteen months from their first emission, when abont twenty millions had been issned, they began to depreciate. At first this was scarcely perceptible, bnt they continued to lose in value daily. Desirous of arresting the growing depreciation. Congress at length resorted to loans and taxes ; but it was difficult to negotiate for the loans, and taxes could not always be collected. Pressed with the necessities of an army. Congress was obliged to continue to issue bills after they had begun to depreciate, and to pay that depreciation by increasing the sums emitted; so that by the year 1780 the amount in circulation was no less than two hundred millions. The progress of this diminution is worthy of notice. At the close of the year 1777, the depreciation was two or three for one ; in '78, five or six for one ; in '79, twenty- seven or twenty-eight for one ; in '80, fifty or sixty for one in the first five months. From this date, the circulation of these bills was limited ; but when they passed they soon depreciated to one hundred and fifty for one, and finally several hundred for one. Several causes contributed to diminish the value of the Continental currency. The excess in quantity at first caused a natural decline in value, which was increased by the enemy who counterfeited the bills and spread their forgeries through the States. These causes cooperating with the decline of public confidence, rapidly increased the decline, until bills of credit, or what was commonly called " Continential money," became of little or no value. The evils which resulted from this system were immense. From this fact, it became extremely difficult to raise an army and provide for its subsistance. At the same time, it originated discontent among the officers and soldiers, since their pay in this depreciated currency was inadequate to the support of their families " Four months' pay of a private would not procure his family a single bushel of 62 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. wheat, and tlie pay of a colonel would not purt-liase oats for liis horse." That Marlborough experienced her share of the evils arising from this state of the currency, is clearly shown 1)y the following letter from the Selectmen to the Committee of Safet}' of New Hampshire: — May yS 20"', 1782. To the honourable, the Coimnittee of Safety of the State of New Hampshire. Gentlemen, in obediance to a precept Received From the Honorable, the General Court to procure our Cota of Continential men, we have yoused our utmost Endeavours to procure said men our-selves, we Emeadately called a town meeting and Chose a Com*" for that pur^wse which Committee has made a return that they cannot procure said men witliout paying such a large sum of hard money in hand to procure said men that it puts the matter beyond our power to prociu-e said men upon so short Notice, we therefore Begg Leave to Inform your Honours that it is not in Disobedience to that precept but it is the Extreame Scarcity of hard money in this New town has put it out of our power at present to yeild that obediance that we should have been glad to have Done. N.B. we would Inform your honours that we have one man Now in the field that was not Creadited for Last year, viz Calvin Goodenow who was hired in y*^ year 1777 by this town to Serve for Said town During the war and at the avacuation of ticonderoga he was taken prisoner and Never joined his Regt till Last may and since that he Deserted and was Last march taken up and is Now in the first Regt in the hampshire line. JAMES BREWER JAMES FLOOD Select EBENEZER TEMPLE } men of SILAS FIFE ]\Iarlborough. DANIEL CUTTING J Amono- the soldiers mustered from this town in 1781, we find the name of Shem Kentfield who was mustered in April 16. Dr. Caverly repOTfs""ninnrs " hanged, June, 1782," but for what offence he does not state! iTe was ^proBalfTTy the man spoken of as hired by John Tozer. In addition to the names already given of those who entered the service from this town, we are informed that Shubael Stone, Theodore Mann, Abraham Brooks, Peter REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY 63 Starkey, Eli Lewis, and Walter Caprou wvw in the arni\ for a longer or shorter time, but at what period of tlu' wdv we cannot say, as we have been nna])le to lind their names ii[)on any muster-roll. Other persons who afterwards settled ill Marlborough were soldiers of the Revolution. Their names are as follows: — Benjamin Spaulding, Francis Barker, Jonas Gary, Joel Porter, Asa Porter, Jacob Woodward, TiinotliY Harvey, Kiniber Ilarvey, Aaron Willard, David Wilkinson, Daniel Farrar, George Farrar, Ebenezer Tobnan, Benjamin Tolmaii, John Garfield, Thomas Moors, Joseph French, Oldham Gates, Jonathan Adams, Theophilons Howard, Jonadab Baker, Hezekiah Ilodgkins, Nathaniel Corbin, Seth Harrington, Lawson Moors, William Collins, Ebenezer Tufts, Benjamin Thatclier,' Ebenezer Hemenway, John Wiswall, Sen., Oliver Parmenter, Hugh Mason, John Bliss, Jonathan Blodgett, Elias Hemenway, Enoch White, Daniel Lawrence, Jonathan Beldiiig, "^Paul Fitch. Francis Barker "was a native of Concord, ]\[ass. At tlie age of fourteen, he was apprenticed to Capt. Timothy Wheeler ^\'llo was a miller and malt-maker. Mr. Barker was tifteen years old when the battle of Concord took place, and was eve-witness to much that transpired between the British and Americans in Concord that day. The British soldiers on their arrival divided into parties, and went directly to the several places where the province stores were deposited. They rolled out the barrels of flour which, unheaded, the}' emptied into the streets and rode their horses through it. Mr. Wheeler had a large (piantity of provincial Hour, together with some casks of his own, stored upon his premises. A Britisli ofBeer demanding entrance, he readily gave him admission. Tlie officer 64 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. expressed his pleasure at the discovery, and ordered his soldiers to destroy it ; but Capt. Wheeler, with much affected simplicity, said to hiui, putting his hand on one of his <)-\vn l)arrels : " This is my iloiir, I am a miller, sir ; yonder stands my mill ; I get my living by it. In the winter, I grind a good deal of wheat, and get it ready for market in the spring." The officer supposing they were all his, and replying that he did not intend to injure private property, turned away and left it unmolested. This was all of the government flour and grain saved in Concord that day. The proceedings of the British on that occasion were more than young' Barker knew how to bear, and he was heard to say in later years that it " made his blood boil with indignation." He at once obtained leave of his master to enter the service ; but, on going to the recruiting office, he was told by the officer in charge that he "was not large enough for a soldier, and that he must go home and get his mother to make him anotlier pudding." He waited one year, and again offered liimself to his country ; but again he was doomed to dii^appointment. At the age of seventeen, he entered the arm}', where he remained three years and six months. Jonadab Baker was in the camjDaign at Rhode Island, where he remained three months. After his return, he again enlisted, and went to West Point, and was there when Major Andr(3 was taken as a spy. Joel Porter was in the army about two years : he was in the battle of Bunker Hill, where he was shot through the ankle near the commencement of the action. The bone was badly shattered; but, having poured some .rum from his canteen through the wound, he continued in the fight till his ammunition was expended and a retreat Avas ordered. In consequence of his wound, he received a pension of fifteen dollars per annum during the last twenty years of his life. Asa Porter, a brother of Joel, Avas in many of the most famous battles of the Revolution, including Monmouth, White Plains, and Yorktown, and witnessed the surrender llEVOLUTrONARY lIFSTOltV. 05 of Cornwallis. Tlie battle of IMoinuouth was fought on the 28"' of June, 1778. Mr. Porter used to say that the extreme heat of that day "killed more men than the British did." The tongues of many of the soldiers were so swollen that it was impossible to retain them in the mouth. Mr. Porter said that he, with many others of his companions, drank gunpowder with their rum: and this he ])elieved prevented their l)eing overcome by the heat. At the battle of White Plains, Mr. Porter picked up a cannon-])all which he brought home as a trophy of the war. It is still pre- served by his descendants. Jacob Woodward was in the arm) at three different times, entering the service at the age of sixteen. He was at West Point also at the tinu' of the capture of Major Andrd, and was one of the soldiers who guarded him the night before his execution. Timothy Harvey and his lu'other Kiml)er enlisted from S\vanzey. Kimber was hired by the town of Swanzey to serve for the period of eight months, for which he received lliirteen pounds. William Collins entered the army from Southborough, when only sixteen years of age, serving at first in the capacity of captain's serA^ant. At one time, the army being short of provisions, a strict guard was kept over the bread, Avhich was dealt out to the soldiers in very small quantities. One day Collins and two or three of his comrades, feeling more than usual the pangs of hunger, formed a plan to steal a quantity of bread. Collins was to watch for an oppor- tunity, when the guard Avas looking the other way, to catch the bread and run; nnd, if discovered, his companions in the jdot were to call the attention of the officers in the opposite direction. They sauntered up near the pile of bread, when, seeing a good opportunity, Collins suddenly snatched a loaf and ran. The theft was immediately discovered; but his companions, acting well their part, started and ran in the opposite direction, crying as they did so, "This way! this way ! '' thus deceiving the officers, and enabling Collins to escape to the place previously agreed upon, where he 66 HISTORY or ISIAELBOEOUGH. divided the loaf equally witli his companions who had assisted him in the plot. Aaron Willard was at White Plains. The following incident was related by him to Deacon Abel Baker, of Troy who in turn gave it to the author. On the night before the battle, a picket-guard, under a colonel including the company to which Mr. Willard belonged, was ordered on dut}'- between Washington's camp and the British army. They advanced through a piece of woods, and were stationed for the night about thirt}' or forty rods toward the British camp, leaving the woods between them and the American lines. In the company to which Willard belonged there was one (rreeu who, though he had l)nt one eye, .was considered the smartest man in the company. As it began to grow light in the morning, a thick fog came on, so that nothing could be seen at any distance: but, as the fog cleared away about eight o'clock, they beheld the British Light Horse Guards within twenty or thirty rods of them. As soon as the colonel discovered the enemy, he ordered his men to fire and retreat to the woods. The British cavalry pursued, in order to overtake them before they had time to screen themselves behind the trees ; but Green stopped on the field and gave them a second shot, and then followed his comrades towards the woods, but M-as singled out by a horseman who raised his sword in order to finish him at a single bloAV. Green loaded his gun as he ran; and, when he jumped the fence at the edge of the timber, the horseman brought his sword down and gave him a slisrht flesh-wound in the shoulder. As Green struck the ground, he brought his gun round ])ack-handed, and fired with so good aim that the horseman paid dearly i'or his recklessness, for he fell from his horse a dead man. Benjamin Thatcher, it is said, served during the greater part of the war, and was in many of the most important battles. He was in the retreat from Ticonderoga to Still- watei' ill Angust. 1777, and was also present at the snvrcndci' ol" (icii. iJnrgoyne. David Wilkinson, Senior, enleivd the army at the age of REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. 67 sixteen from Walpole, Mass. He was at West Point at the time of Arnold's treachery, and was present at the execu- tion of Andrt;. The records of AValpole state that the town "voted to give each s(ddicr one-half l)nshel ol" Indian corn for each day's service, and the same quantity for every ten miles' travel." Daniel Farrar was one of the minute-men at Concord, and also took part in the battle of Bunker Hill, where a musket-ball clipped a lock of his whiskers. His term of enlistment expired soon after, and we do not learn as he again entered the service. His brother George was in the army some five or six j^ears, but we have not been able to gain any information of his military career. John Wiswall, Senior, the father of Major John Wiswall, entered the army from Newton, Mass. He was at the battle of Lexington, being a member of a company from Newton which was commanded by his brother Jeremiah. His father, Capt. Noah Wiswall, was in the same company, being at that time seventy-six years old. The History of Newton states that, in 1777, John Wiswall lent the town twenty pounds to pay the soldiers. Ebenezer Tolman enlisted from Fitzwilliam. He was under Col. Stark, and was at the battle of Bunker Hill. He assisted in building the breastwork of rail-fence and hay, and fought behind it when the British made the attack. He was also in the expedition against Quebec under Arnold, where he was captured and held a prisoner four months. After being exchanged, he re-enlisted and served through the greater part of the war. His brother Benjamin was in the battle of Lexington and also of Bunker Hill, where he was in the thickest of the light. In a hand-to-hand conllict, his gun was wrenched from him by a British soldier ; but he stood his ground, defending himself with the weapons Nature had furnished him, until his captain, seeing his condition, quickly brought him another musket, with which he continued to fight until ordered to retreat. Mr. Tolman was paid by the State for articles lost in the battle, as follows : '•'• For shoes Is. : for 68 HLSTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. stockings 2s. ; for trousers 2s. 6d. ; for shirts 5.s'. ; for sun- dries 2.S." He was in the army about two and a half years, receiving a compensation of £4 10s. per month. The hist battle in which he was engaged was that of Bennington, where he passed through one of .the most- trying scenes of his military life. Ezekiel Mixer, his companion in arms, and the one who had been his most intimate friend for two years, received his death-wound while linhting bv his side. Mr. Tolman bore him from the field and closed his dying eyes. Enoch White entered the service from Bolton, Mass. The following is copied from an old book which formerly belonged to Mr. White, and was once the property of his father, Samuel White, having been purchased by the latter in 1764. A list of towns which I went through a going to Benington and half moon in the American revolutionary war, July, 30, 1777, left Bolton in the Bay State and went to Lancaster, Starlin ; JShuesbury ; Holden ; Rutland: Bare: Petersham: Xew Salem; Shutsborough : Amherst: Hadley : North Hamten ; Chesterfield : Withington ; Patridgefield : Gage- borough : New Providence : Whosick : Pownal : Benington : Dutch Who- sick : Mapleton Pitsfield : Half moon. Came home September 3"^ 1777. Also a list of towns I went through to llhodeisland. Sept. 1781, left Bolton Masachusets Bay and went to Marlborough, Southborough : Hopkinton Milford : Belinghani : Cmnberland: Rehoboth: Swanzey: Waring: Bristol: Pary: llhodeisland Come home, November 30 1781. ENOCH WHITE. Jonathan Belding was at West Point, and witnessed the desertion of Arnold: he saw him (with the aid of a spy-glass) climbing over thd" side of the vessel. Several of the soldiers with himself were so excited they fired their guns at Arnold, but a cannon-ball would have failed to reach him at so great a distance. Mr. Belding used to relate that upon one occasion when on a long march their rations failed ; and such was their famished condition that they roasted and -ate their shoes, after which they could be tracked by the blood from theii" feet for two dnys. The first food they came across was an ox Avhich they REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY. 69 sl.iuglitered and coinineuced dressing, l)iil such was their hunger that, when they eanie to the inwards, these were cut or torn open, tlirown upon the fire, roasted, and being eaten were dechired to be the best food that ever passed their lips. Josci)k French was in the battle of Bunker Hill. He had been serving in the eapaeitv of Drum-major; but one of his neighbors to whom he had lent his gun, lia\ ing served his time, returned the gun to French just before the battle. Mr. French laid aside the drum, and took up his musket and entered the ranks. Near the close of the action, he was wounded in the back of the neck. We regret that so little is known of the military career of those men who fought for their country's liberty; but they long since passed from earth, and their descendants have treasured up but little of their history, so that at this late day it is impossible to give any connected account of their adventures and experience. There was one man who, although he was a British soldier, must not be forgotten in these pages. Alexander Fish, a Scotchman by birth, was a soldier in the British army. He started with Burgoyne from JNlontreal, and shared in the trials and difficulties of the campaign from that place to New York. His business was to drive a span of horses attached to a large brass gun belonging to one of the batteries. After the battle of Saratoga, and before the surrender of the army, an order was given to drive that gun away from the encampment and bnry it. The order was obeyed. Fish drove the gun to the spot, the hole was dug, the gun dismounted and buried. Fish marked the spot with the intention of securing *t at some convenient time for his own benefit. Soon after the surrender, and before the prisoners were exchanged, he deserted, and took up his residence in Marlborough. He married an Englishwoman, by the name of Mary Montgomery, whose history was even more singular than that of her husband. She belonged to the titled family of Montgomery in England, and was brought up in affluence. At the time of the breaking out of the Revolutionary war, she was receiving the attentions 70 HISTORY OF MARLBOKOUGH. of a British officer, iniicli against the will of her parents. The officer being ordered to America with his regiment, invited her to aeconipan)' him, which she did, expecting to be married npon their arrival in America ; but in this, for some reason unknown to us, she Avas disappointed, and instead of being married became an article of merchandise among the soldiers. She followed the fortunes of the army until the surrender of Burgoyne, when Fish having made up his mind to desert, bought her of a comrade for a gallon of rum, and brought her to Marlborough where they were married. They resided in the east part of the toAvn on what is now called the Alger place, living in what was called the "Old Tomb," being a dug-out, in a knoll near where the Hunt road intersected with the one leading to the Phinehas Farrar place. It is quite likely he constructed this rude habitation, as it is not known that any one had resided there before him. Some years after the war was over, he made a journe}" to Saratoga to secure. the buried gun: he probed about with a bar where he supposed it was, but finally came away without accomplishing his object. He then applied to a conjurer for information, and being informed •'• that he struck the muzzle of the gun with his iron bar," he started again about 1804 or 1805, accompanied with Luther Tenney and Tisdale Howard ; but, after searching for some days, they gave up the project without finding the gun. In his intercourse with his neighbors, it is said, he was not always conciliator}'-, and did not lose his fighting qualities while in the army. The latter part of his life* he lived on the north side of the road, about half way between the place where William C. ^lason now resides and the farm formerly owned by Noah Porter. For many years he was intemperate, and died leaving no descendants. He died about 1824 or 1825 ; his wife having died, October 3, 1821. CHAPTER IV. ADOPTION OF THE STATE COXSTITUTIOX. — WAR OF 1812. — IXCOIU'OIJATIOX OF THE TOWNS OF ROXBUHY AXD TllOY. Articles of Confedebatiox dkaavx up. — Rejection of the Plan OF GOVERXMEXT BY TUE TOWX. — ReJECTIOX OF THE SeCOXI) Plax of Govekxmext. — Amexdmexts offered. — War declared AGAIXST EXGLAXD. — AmMUXITIOX PURCHASED BY THE TOAVX. — Mex called for. — The Draft. — Ixspectiox of the Militia by Col. Prei^cott. — A Sham P'ight. — Roxbury set off. — Troy IXCORPORATED. Soon after the Declariition of Independence, the Conti- nental Congress believing that snccess mnst eventnally crown their efforts, commenced drawing up varions articles of confederation and perpetnal nnion between the States. Snch articles were obviously necessary, in order that the line of distinction betw^een the powers of the respective States and of Congress shonld be exactly defined. In tliis way only, conld the peace and liarmony of the Union be preserved. Accordingly, snch articles were digested, and at the sitting of Congress, October 4, 1776, w^re signed by all the members, and copies immediately sent to the respective assemblies of each State, and by them sent to each town in the State for approval. These articles of confederation were bronght before the citizens of Marlborough at a meeting called for that purpose, February 6, 1778. At this meeting, Lieut. Oliver Wriglit was moderator, and it Avas ''voted to accept all the articles of confederation except the eighth." At the same meeting it was voted to give Benjamin Tucker who Avas representa- tive to the General Assembly, the following instructions: — "■Voted, that all the articles of Confederation IJe Concurd 72 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. Avith Except .the Eiglitli, Which Wee Look upon that Every Residaiit in tlic united States, ShoiThl Bare their Equil pro- portion according- to wliat- thay poses,- Both in Real and personal Estate. Voted, that there Be a free and Ful Rrep- resentation, to La}^ a Lasting, just and Righteous Sistim of government in this State." A convention for the above purpose assembled at Concord, June 10, 1778. We find no record of any delegate being sent from this town to attend that convention. From the following record of a town meeting held September 2, 1779, it appears that the convention prepared and sent abroad a system of government. "Voted not to Except of the Declaration of Rites and plan of government ; the Return of Said Vote, forty fore Voters : forty three votes for not Receiving S^ plan, and one for Receiving Said plan." It was rejected by a majority of the votes in the State. Another convention was called June, 1781, which held nine sessions before a plan was devised that was wholly accepted, not closing until October, 1783. In 1782, the convention formed a plan of government, which they sent to every town, desiring the people to act upon it, and then return it. At a town meeting held November 29, 1782, this constitution having been read, it was Aoted not to accept -it ; and Alexander Parkman, David Wheeler, Joseph Follet, Samuel Soper, Moses Tucker, Jedediah Tayntor, and James Brewer, were chosen a committee to draw up an amendment to lay before the town. The meeting was then adjourned for a week ; when, having met according to adjournment, they voted to accept the amendments as drawn up l)y the committee, which were as follows : — 111 the 30 article in the Bill of Rights coiiceniiiig pensions, it is the opinion of the inhabitants of this town, that no pensions Be allowed to any jierson. Excepting particular persons meeting with Extraordinary misfortune, as Loss of Limbs and the Like, 2">', that all Representatives, their wages for their attendance, as well as travel to the genei'al assem- bly, be paid at tlie Expeuce of the State, 3.'y, that it is the opinion of S'' town that where the Constitution limits any time as two, seven, or any Number of years, for any jierson to Be an inhabitant in the State to attain to office ; that any person ought to be Elected without that WAR OF 1812. 73 Restraint, and that tlie Electors ought in all Reason to Ije Sole juflges of such Elections, i.^y and that the governor & Counsil have power in the recess of the General Court, to adjourn thirty Days, 5"''y and that the governor and Counsil have power to put the inhabitants of this State into marshal array upon any sudden Emergency, but not to keep them longer than thirty Days without order from the general Court : 0">'>' all Judicial officers to be appointed by the general Court, and Commis'sioned by the Governor, Except Justices of the peace. Captains and Subaltern of Company, to be Chosen and appointed by inhabitants of Each town, and to be Commissioned as aforesaid, T""'-^ and it is the opinion of the inhabitants of Said town, that the town Clark be ap[)ointed Rejerstor of Deeds of Land Lj'ing in their Respective towns, and in Such proceeding- would save Emense Cost, 8"''^ and it is further the ojiinion of S*i town that the State Treasurer and Commisery General, be under Sufficient Bonds for the execution of their trust. The new plan of government was not finished nutil October, 1783, and was not declared to be the Constitntion of New Hampshire nntil June, 178-1. WAK OF 1812. Although generally spoken of as the icai- of 1813, it was not till June, 1814, that Congress passed a bill declaring war against Great Britain, which soon after received the signa- ture of the President. The principal grounds for war, as set forth in a message of the President to Congress a short time previous, were stnnmarily : the impressment of Ameri- can seamen by the British ; the blockade of her enemies' ports, supported by no adequate force, in consequence of which the American commerce had been plundered in every sea, and the great staples of the countrj' cut off from the legitimate markets. On these grounds President ^Madison uro'ed the declaration of war. Preparations were immediately made for hostilities ; and each town provided itself with a stock of ammunition, ^larlborongh following the example of her neighbors in tliis respect, called a meeting August 31, at which time it was voted to purchase oue liundred pounds of powder, two 74 HISTORY OF MAKLBOEOrCH. hiimlred pounds of lead, and four lumdred flints. Wliat the town expected to do with such a qnantity of ammunition, the record does not state : certain it .is that it was never used in defending her territory against the invasion of the enemy, but was stored in the attic of the old meeting-house, where it remained until after peace was declared, when it was divided equally among the several voters in town. INIay 29, 1812, his Excellency, John Langdon, issued orders for detailing three thousand five hundred men from the militia of this State to be organized into companies, battalions, and regiments ; the same to be armed and equipped for actual service, and to be ready to march at the shortest notice. The orders were executed at the annual training, the last Wednesday in June. A draft, however, was not made, because a sufficient number of volunteers were accepted to fill the quota. When the Mal'lborough Light Infantry (which was the first organized company in the twelfth regiment) was called upon for volunteers, the ivhole company responded to the call ; and when Major Wiswall who then commanded the company, said that out of the whole number eight must go, the right number immediately came forward ; and when thc}^ were notified that they must be ready to take the field at a moment's notice, one man, whose clothes were very clean, said he was ready, only his clothes needed mending ; the man next to him, whose uniform was somewhat soiled, answered that he was ready, only he wanted a " grist in his gun." These men were never called into the field ; and no one from this town elitered the service until 1814, when the Governor called for troops to garrison the forts at Portsmouth. To fill this (^uota, a draft was made on training day about the twentieth of September ; and the following persons were either drafted or hired as sub- stitutes : — Etheel Parmenter, Sergt. Ileiivy II. Cutler. Benjamin Fife. Natlian I). Barker. Abncr Fairbanks. These men were all on the road towards Portsmouth early ^VAR OF 1812. 75 the next moiiiing-. They were attached to Capt. Oliver Warren's company, and served tliree months. A Aveek later, when another draft was orchn'cd, the select- men came Ibrward, and oi'l'ered to make ii[) their wages to iitteen dollars per month ; and a snfficient number imme- diately volunteered for tlie service. Their names were : — Moses Perkins. Darius Williams. Stephen White. Aaron Ilodgkins. Ezekiel AVhite. Levi Gates, Jr. These men were in Capt. Silas Call's company, and served about six weeks, when they were discharged, and returned home. After the second quota of troops had been despatched to L'ortsmouth, as a very active campaign was expected the next year. Col. Prescott, probably at the request of the Governor of the State, ordered a military training in every town belonging to his regiment. He and Adjutant Luke Howe, of Jaffrey, inspected every company iii these towns, to see if they were lawfully and properly equipped in order to make them efficient soldiers in case they were ordered to take the field. Sufficient notice having been given for a lawful training, to show the interest the people in Marlborough felt in defence of their rights, a company of old men came out in very respectable nund)ers, and were organized. They made choice of Col. Joseph Frost for Captain, Major John Wiswall for Lieutenant, and Capt. Sliubael Stoile for Ensign, with Lieut. Jonathan Frost for Orderly Sergeant. A company of Indians had also been organized under the leadership of Luke Blodgett as Chief, which was encamped in the woods between the connnon and the Meeting-house Pond. After the companies had been inspected by the field officers, the troops were formed into a hollow square, and Adjutant Howe made a famous military speech which was highly a[)preciated by all present. After the field oiVn'crs had retired, pnqjarations liaAiiig 76 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. been previously made for a Hliam fiijltt^ the troops were dis- posed of ill the following manner. The light infantry, commanded by Capt. Asa Frost, and the Indians, represented the British army Avhich had concentrated on our borders and used the rifle and tomahawk upon our defenceless settle- ments. The Indians under Blodgett retained their position in the woods, wliile the light infantry posted themselves, at the north-west corner of the woods, near the north-east corner of the cemetery. The company of infantry under command of Capt. E. K. Frost, and the seniors under Col. Joseph Frost, were to represent the United States army, and were disposed of as follows : Capt. E. K. Frost with his company remained on parade, while Col. Joseph Frost with his command (in which was Deacon Tucker who was on duty with his three-cornered hat, small clothes, and the old hunting gun) was posted at the east side of the woods near the Cummings pasture. The acticni was commenced by a party of Indians falling upon and scalping John Rodgers, an old Revolutionary soldier ; wliile another party fired a few sliots from behind the horse-sheds at E. K. Frost's men on parade. A ser- geant's guard was ordered to dislodge the Indians, but in so doing were obliged to retreat with the loss of one man (Samuel Goodnough), who was taken prisoner, dragged off to the woods, and condemned to be burned at the stake. He was tied to a tree, and the fire was lighted ; but, before they had accomplished their oliject, Col. Frost's men appeared, and with a very heavy discharge drove the Indians back on the light infantry, and released him from his perilous situa- tion. At this juncture Col. Frost's men were joined by Capt. E. K. Frost's company. The light infantry coming up to the support of their Indian allies, the two companies, after a severe fight, retreated towards the church, and were pursued by the light troops and Indians for some distance, when, turning upon them again, they in turn lied, and finally took refuge in the pound which was used as a fort. I'liis fortress Avas assailed from the most advantageous positions wit h much s])irit l)y the two eouipauies \\'lio kept INCORPORATION OF TOWNS OP ROXBURY AND TROY. 77 \\\) (lu'ir liriiig t'or some time, while those witliiii fought bnively in its (.leieiiee, showing a determination to drive their assaihints from tlie tield ; but, as they manifested no disposi- tion to raise the siege, terms were agreed upon, and the liglit infaiitr}^ and Indians were adowed to mareh out with the ''honors of war." Col. Frost afterwards notilied the Governor of tlie State that he with his eompany woidd be ready to take the fiekl whenever in his wisdom it might be necessary to defend the State from foreign invasion. In the year 1812, the spirit of scces.sion prevailed in the northern part of the town to an alarming extent. For several years, the people residing in that part of the town, together with those in the south-Avestern part of Paekers- held and the eastern portion of Keene, had become dissat- isfied with living so far from the places of public worship in their respective towns, and not only this, but they had suffered much inconvenience in residing at such a distance from the place where their public business was transacted. At that time, this district had become quite thickly popu- lated ; the dense forest had given place to well-cultivated farms, and it was thought to contain inhabitants sufficient to entitle them to the privilege of being incorporated into a town by themselves. In 1803, those residing in Packersfield, not getting a road to the middle of the town altered to their satisfaction, united with the others, and 1)uilt a meeting-house. Soon after, they petitioned to the Legislature whieh sent a eommittee to examine the district the}' desired to have organized into a town. This committee decided in favor of the petitioners. Keene remonstrated, and the matter was delayed for some time. Petitions were, however, presented from time to time to the several towns, asking leave to be set off as a separate town l)ut were refused. In 1812, the subject was again agitated to such an extent that near the close of that year a new town was incor. porated by the name of Roxl)ury. lly this act, two ranges 78 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. of lots, including those w.'di/c-shapcd, were severed from Miirlborough. The spirit of diseoutent wliirh luul l)eeu so long moving among the people of Marll)orough did not end with the incorporation of lloxbury. The inhabitants of the south part of the town and the northern portion of Fitzwilliam had long been agitating the subject of a new town in conjunction with a part of Swanzey and Richmond. The reasons urged why this separation should take place, were "that the surface of this territory was so uneven and hilly, and the hills extended in such directions as to render it inconvenient for the inhabitants of some parts of it to reach the centre of their respective towns." That part which now consti- tutes the pleasant village of Troy, had become thickly settled, and was fast becoming a place of extensive business ; and, being built uj) on the borders of two towns, it was " under a divided jurisdiction." This being the case, they must have felt that their interests to a certain extent were divided : this feeling could have been neither pleasant nor conducive to the prosperity of the place. The first intimation we have that the inhabitants of this territory desired a new town was in 1781. In the warrant posted for a town meeting, February 6, 1781, the following- article appeared : — "to See if the town will vote off pat of the South End of marlboro, that is Required to Be voted off By part of the inhabitants of marlboro, and part of Fitzwilliam, and part of Swanzey, and part of Richmond, in order to make a town." The only response to this article was a vote to pass it over. The matter now lay dormant for ten years, when it was ao-ain taken up, but with no better success than before. Again and again was the subject brought up, but in vain ; for, although Swanzey and Richmond wei-e willing to con- tribute their share of the territory for a new toAvn, P'^itz- william and Marlborough were inexorable. In the summer of 1812, seeing that the north end of the town was likely to meet with success in their efforts to form a new town, the subject was again revived, citizens' meetings were held, and INCOnrOEATlON OF TOWNS OF ItOXIU'lIV AM) I'ltOY. 70 niTangements made for 1)uil(liiio- a iiu'ctin^-liousc. Duiino- the following year, this was completed, and a, ('harter jx-ti- tioned for ; but this was not so easily obtained. Marlborough and Fitzwilliam placed every obstacle in the way, and for a long time the battle raged; but at hist it resulted in a verdict for the petitioners, and a new town by the name of Troy was incorporated, June 23, 1815. By this act, Marl- borough lost not only a large piece of her territory, but some of her most enterprising men, — a loss that was deeply felt for many years. CHAPTER V. THE CENTRE MEETING-HOUSE. Charter Stipulatioxs concerning a Meeting-House. — Voted to BUILD a MeETING-HoUSE. — OPPOSITION. — LETTERS FROM BeN.JAMIN Tucker to George Jaffrey. — Building raised. — Measures TAKEN to finish THE HOUSE. — DESCRIPTION OF THE INTERIOR. — Phinehas Farrar's Account. — Warming the House. — Members OF other Denominations excused from Paying the Ministeimal Tax. — Use of Meetixg-House divided among the several Denominations. — Repairing Meeting-House. — The Bell. — The House forsaken. — It becomes an Ob.ject of Contention. — Sold at Auction. — The Purchaser meets with Difficulties. — The Town again becomes the Owner. — The House legally DISPOSED OF. — Its Destruction. One condition of the charter granted by the Mnsonian Proprietors required the grantees to bnikl a convenient meeting-honse in the township witliin ten years from its date, provided they were not j)revented by Indian wars. At a meeting of the Proprietors held at the house of Isaac McAllister, November 13, 1776, the following article was acted upon : " to see if the Prop'^ will Choose a Commtte to Lay out a Spot to set a Meeting House on, Cut Down and kill ye growth on Two acres thereof." This was j)assed in the negative. The subject of l)ni](liug was ealk'd up at subsequent meetings; but no movement was made towards accomplishing the object until January 3, 1770, at Avhich time a Proprietors' meeting was held at the house of Benja- min Tucker, when it was voted to build a meeting-house forty-five feet long and thirty-eight feet wide. Benjamin THK CENTHE ISIEETINC-HOUSE. ^^ Tucker, Daniel Goodeiiougli, Joseph Collins, Jonah Ilai- lington, Moses Godard, James Brewer, and Isaac INlcAllisier were chosen a building committee. Voted "to raise ten Dollars on each Prop'* Kight for to Huild a meeting House." "• Voted that the committee that are appointed to build the meeting House, are im powered to notify the Lord Prop's and Request their Voice where it shall be set."' A subscription paper was circulated for the purpose of raising funds to aid in buihling the house. How large an amount was raised we have not learned, but a majority of the settlers in the township contributed something, as will be seen by the following list of subscribers : — fJoseph Collins. Richard Tozer. Benjamin Tucker. Moses Godard. Joshua Tucker. John Felton. Abijah Tucker. Jedediah Maynard. Caleb Tucker. Stephen Church. Jedediah Tayntor. The following is a copy of the request sent to the Lord Proprietors, relative to locating the meeting-house: — Mr. Geohge Jaffrey, We the Subscribers being chosen a Coiiimittee by the Grantees of ^lonadnock Xo. 5 to build a Meeting house for public worship, and like- wise to acquaint the Grantors of said Township, of the Proceedings in that affair, and request their voice in it agreeable to the Charter of the Grantors. We have, therefore, according to our judgment, chosen the l)est spot to set a ^Meeting house on nighest the Centre of said Town, both in respect of the Grantors and the Grantees, and request the Gfantors to come and give their consent to it if they think proper, or signify their nunds to us any way as they shall think proper, We being informed that ]\Ir. Jaffrey was Clerk for the grantees of said Township, we have prepared to send the above request to him, and hope his favor in laying the retpiest befoj-e the grantors and his doing the same and acipuiinting us of their minds, will greatly oblige the Grantees and us; Y-^ Hmnble Serv'ts, BENJA. TUCKER. .^lunadnock, No. 5, Jan. \' 11, 1770. DAXIEL (iOODENOUGH. JOSEPH COLLTXS. ISAAC :\IcALLTSTER. MOSES GODD.VRIX JA^IESBREAVER. JONAH llAi;itIX(/l'()X. 82 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. We do not learn that any dififienlty was experienced in reg'ard to locating the house, but it seems that some dissatis- faction Avas felt on the part of many of the proprietors relative to its size. Another meeting Avas called, and held at the house of Jonah Harrington on the eighteenth day of the folloAving April. At this meeting, it was voted "to Reconsider what was don consarning a meeting House in the last meeting at the house of B. Tucker." The committee chosen to build the house was dismissed. It was then voted to build a house thirty feet square, without the help of any subscription ; and a new committee was chosen to carry this vote into effect. But this decision like those of the former meeting, were destined never to be carried out ; for another meeting was held at the house of Benjamin Tucker on the twenty-third day of May, when the committee first chosen were reinstated. What instructions were given to this committee in regard to the size of the house does not appear : but certain it is that the building was much larger than had been voted at either of the previous meetings, it being fifty feet long and forty feet wide. The two following letters, written by Benjamin Tucker to George Jaffrey, will explain the state of affairs in the town- ship at this time : — roRTSMouTH, April, y*^ iT''', 1770. Esq'r Jaffrey, Sir, These with my due regards to you, hoping they may meet you in good health, and Sir, I would inform you that I made a journey to Ports'^ on purpose to see yourself with some others of the gentlemen Grantors of our Tow^ashi]), IMonadnock No. 5, hut my fortune happens to be here when Esq'r. Jaffrey is not at home, which I am exceeding sorry for. I much wanted to see the Escfr. and to advise with him concerning the affairs of our town, for I received a letter from the Esq'r. last winter, wherein he desired me to return him an answer concerning the settlement of our township, wliich answer 1 had wrote sometime ago, hut having no opportunity to send it, I made this journey to bring it, with a letter from a committee chosen to build our meeting house, desiring the gentlemen Gsantors of oin* town, to give their advice where our meeting house shall stand, which they have a right by charter to do. And, Sir, yon will see in my answer to your lettei', that we had thp: centre meeting-house. 83 iiG^i-eed to build a meeting house, and how large, and when to be ready to raise, but I must now let you know, that that part ol' my answer is uncertain, for there is a number lliat has arose up and calleil anotlier meeting the 18 of tliis uu)nth, and reconsidered what was done at our meeting, y'' •> of flan, last, after they were recorded on book, and say they will not have this meeting house so large, but will have one 30 feet .square, and they dismissed the committee that was appointed to build the meeting house, that I give you an account of in my answer to your- self, and have not got any coimnittee to build the 30 foot meeting house, and we are now in a bad situation concerning our meeting house, for the worknum that we agreed with to build the house 40 feet wide, and 50 long, has cut the chief of the great timber, and hewn the long sticks, and they are drawn together where we expect the house will stand, and ye connnittee has entered into bonds to see ye workman paid by the first of Septemlier next, and have taken bond of him wherein he is obliged to have the house ready to raise by that time, and the committee were obliged to draw all the timber to the spot, and to find all the work at ye s]iot, but since they are dismissed by the last meeting from that office, they think and say they have no further concern with it, which if that meeting stands good, it must be so, and when ye workman has hewn all the timber, he must stop his hand, for he will find no man to draw it together for him, and there is nobody any power to agree with him to stop, and not to proceed any further in this affair as things now stand, and I would let the Esq'r. know that it was by reason of 3 or 4 persons giving power to Capt. Jesse Rice, and Mr. Daniel Harrington, both of Marlborough, to act for them, was the means of bringing us into this bad situation, and they are those persons that are the most behind as to settling; viz; the Right of Henry Neel & Robert Allen & Thomas Morrison, with ye three duty free rights which belong to old Madam Blanchard, & others of that family, which you will see in my answer to your letter, hold ; I have retm-ned them, and in whose hands they are now. Tu the Right of James Morrison, which is now in the hands of the AVidow Dexter, you will see in my answer to you that I wrote in her favor, but inasmuch as she has empowered those men to act in her behalf, to the damage of our town, I have no more to say in her behalf, and. Sir, if you would be so kind as to get the gentleman Grantors together as soon as may be, and lay our case before them, and see if they will take so much notice of us, as to give us their advice in all affairs concerning our town, and whether that meeting be good wherein they disannulled what was done before, and put on record, also to see what method they will come into, in order to join with us on a spot to set om- meeting house, if we ever agree to build one, for we want to clear up ye spot to set it. No more at present, so I remain your humble servant at com- niand. . BENJA. TUCKER. 84 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. P.S. Sir, I have lei't some papers in ye hand of Cato Atkinson for yourself, and Sir, Mr. Morse of Dublin gives his services to yourself, & desires me to inform you that he received your letter last Friday, wherein you desired him to return to you a true acooiuit of their settlement, which he would do as soon as })ossihly lie could. And, Sir, in my answer to your letter, I did not set forth to you the number of acres that each man had got cleared, but there is not above "2 or 3 but what has got more land than the Charter required." MoxAT>xocK, Xo. 5, ]\Iay ye 2!)"' 1770. EsQu. Jaffkey, Sir, I wrote to you in a letter when I was at rortsnu)ut]i, that we met with some dithculty about our meeting house, and that the Committee that was appointed to build it was dismissed, and there was none to carry on the work, l)ut we ]ia\e had a meeting since and have )uadc choice of the old Committee again, and the House is like tu go on as it was fii'st proposed to be, and if the gentlemen Grantors would take so much notice of our letter, as to appoint some man or men as they shall think jiroper, to come and see the spot that w'e have chosen to set the Meeting house on, and give their consent, if they think proper, for we want to clear it up as soon as may be, for we cant draw tlie timber to the spot, till the land is cleared up, and, Sir, what I wrote to you concerning the Rights that were not settled according to Charter, still remain so, as far as I know excepting the liight of Ilalbert Morrison. There is a man daily at work and has got his family to Swanzey near by his work, and designs to bring them in to town as soon as he can get a house up to jmt them in; and, Sir, you wrote to me in your letter, tliat I should be paid for my trouble, but as for that, I leave with you to do as you think proper, I vsras exceeding sorry that Esqr. Jaffrey was not at home, for 1 wanted much to see him, but was disappointed. Xo more at present, so I remain your humble servant at command. J',J:XJA. TUCKER. The framing of the house was let to Stephen Church, and the frame was raised sometime previous to November 21, at which time a meeting was held at the house of Benjamin Tucker, when it was voted to accept of " accompts brout for sarvis don about the meeting house." Voted " to give Isen- jamin Tucker 3.s. 2d. Iq. pur gallon for 8 gallons of Rum at ye raising of y^ meeting house." We are not to suppose from this item that the early settlers of our town were more temperate than those of the neighboring towns ; for it is a well-known fact that it was customarv on all occasions like THE CENTRE MEETING-HOrSE. 85 this to procure at least one barrel of mm. Tradition tells us that the customary barrel was provided on this occasion ; l)ut the demand for the indispensable article was so jj^reat that this (piantily Avas not sullicient, and lieiijaniin Tncker being chairman of the bnilding committee, procured the additional eight gallons, iV)r which he brought in a separate account. When we take into consideration the fact that at the same meetino- it Avas voted to allow Benjamin Tucker's account in full, and that at a vendue, sometime afterwards, when a luunber of articles belonging to the proprietors were offered for sale, a l)arrel was sold to Moses Tucker for 2s. Sd., we may safely conclude tliat the first meeting-house was raised with appropriate ceremooiics, according to the custom that prevailed in our New England towns at that day. It would seem that, in taking the job of framing and raisino- the house, Mr. Church did not correetlv estimate the cost, as the following vote was passed at tlie same meeting : " Voted to give Stephen Church £5 12s. Id. to make up what he.Saith he Loast by building the meeting house." Subsequently, we find that Stephen Church received for work done on the meeting-house £44 6s. 4(7. 2q. At the same meeting, it was " Voted to Raise five dolers on itch propt^ Rite to cover the meeting house with,'' " Voted to dismiss ye Commity that was appointed to Buld the meeting house," " Voted to Choues 3 men for a commity to take care and cover y^ meeting house, and made choice of Benja Tucker, Isaac ]McAlister & John Felton for that purpos." During the next fifteen years, the subject of finishing the house was discussed in the meetings of the proprietors ; but little was done bej'ond finishing th^ outside, and even this was not completed until 1779. At a meeting in January of that year, it was " Voted to finish Cleapboording the meet- ing house and colour it, to hang the Doors to Lay the Lower floor and build the body seats and Git one Box of Glass to Glaize it in part."' In 1785 the proprietors gave up all claim to the meeting- house, and it passed into the hands of the town, and was 86 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. fiiiislu'd (lining' tlie next five years. To meet the expense, pew giounds were sold at public auction at different times. This l)arn-like structure was located on the north-west c(»rncr ol" tlic common, and was as near tlie geographical centre of the town as it could Ix- conveniently. It had entrances on the south, east, and west sides. The pulpit was on the north side, over which was suspeiuled a huge sounding-board. There was a row of pews round the house next to the walls, and an aisle ran round just inside of this row. There was also a middle aisle which led from the south door to the pulpit, which was called the '' broad aisle," and had two rows of "body pews" on eai-h side. The Deacons' seat was a narrow pew in front of the pulpit, facing the congregatit)n. The communion table Avas at- tached to the Deacons' seat like a common table-leaf, and was let down when not in use. The gallery extended on three sides of the house, and liad, as below, a row of pews next to the wall, and three roAvs of seats in front. The seats in the west galler}^ were designed for old men, and those in the east for old ladies ; the singers occupying the front seats in the south gallery. In 1785 twenty-one pew-grounds were sold at vendue by Oliver Wright, Abijah Tucker, and Daniel Cutting, who were a committee chosen by the town, for the purpose of finishing the meeting-house. The terms of the sale were as follows: "Each Pue struck off, the highest Bider Shall pay one Dollar Down, three Dollars in four weeks from the sail, the remainder in six months." These brought sums varying from £3 to £1 16,s-. The ])ews were made with panel-work, surmounted by a light balustrade of minute ornamented columns : they were nearly square, and had a row of un- cushioned seats round the interior except at the door. These board-seats were hung on hinges, so as to turn up against the side of the pew for convenience in standing dur- ing prayer-time ; and, as the congregation resumed their seats, these were let down with a zeal that betokened some interest, at least in this part of the ceremony. We know of no language l)etter adapted to describe this scene tlian the FIRST MEETING-HOUSE IN MARLBOROUGH. Drawn from memory by Rev. P. Wallingford. THE CENTRE M KI-yPlNC-lK »rSK. H7 following selection from the poem I'eiid Ity Siimuel liiiinliaiii. at the ('eiileiiiiiiil ( 'eU'hnitioii of the town of IJiiidge. Ami wlii'ii, at last, the loml Aiin'ii Fell Iruiu aiui'l, liow (luickly tiicu The seats cann' down willi JR'avv rattle, Like miisketrv in tieiH'csJ haltlcl At a meeting in October, 1789, Capt. Phinehas Farrar presented the following aecouut Avliich was allowed by the town : — the Town of Marlboro, D'. riiiiiehas Farrar for Servis as Committee Fiuisliini;- the ]Meeting' iiou.s in v'' \7bd. ^ s. (I. to half a Day Settling with the old Committee, 1 (i to two jonrnays to John Parkhni'st aft(?r Nails, ;j once to Jose[)h Cuttings after Corn for Mr. Cnminings, . . . (I 1 ti once to Calvins Stones after Nails 1 to five time attending vandue to Sel the I'ues, . . . . . . (I ."i and once to Keene after Iron, 10 to Part of a Day after Boards, 10 to Ciiting and Drawing stage Poles, -l to one Day underpiuiug the Meeting house o to Carting one Lode of Boards from Tuckers mill, d ;; to Carting one Load of Plunk, ■ .... 2 to eight and a half wate of honey, ( i ."> 8 to one journey to Fitzwilliam after Nails o L' to tune spent after ,stnf, o 1 to two journey to Warrins after Nails, . . .' o ;> (i once to warrins after Bund) for the Car^ienlers, i) 1 li to me and horse one Day after Calves pates, 1 (i to' making tlie same, o o to one journey to Bindge to settle with the ('ar|H'Ulers, . . . (i to three half Days .settling with j)eopie () 1 (> Once to Keene after Ballisters, (i 1 li to time spent at sundry times, • (i li' o to Cash Paid for Calves Pates for sising -J to Cash Paiil for Rum 7 (Quarts and a i)iut, .") 7 to Cash Paid for glew Oil to one hundred of Boards, -020 to uiy Cart to Dublin after a Barril of Bunib. . - 1 to one Day and a half settling accounts, Oof! 4 8 7 PlilXKllAS FABBFB. :\Iarlboro the 12 October 17biJ. 88 HISTORY OF MARLIiOUOUGH. Tilt' meetiiig-liouse was warmed ehietiy by the sun, for stoves and furnaces were unknown in those (Uiys. A poor substitute, however, Avas resorted to from necessity ; namely, the fiinf-xtovc which the matron of each family aaus i-arcl'ul in the coldest weather to have well prepared with living- coals from the hearth-stone. ^Vside from these, the worship- pers were entirely dependent for their cond'ort upon the ardor of the minister's exhortations and the fervor of their OAvn religious emotions. Here our ancestors worshipped (iod ; many of tliem coming the distance of four or five miles, and sitting on a cold winter's day while the Rev. HalloAvay Fish, with the collar of his great coat turned uj) about his ears, and striped mittens on his hands, put forth his doctrinal views in sermons of not less than one hour in length. The morning service beino- over, durino' the intermission the women retired to the nearest house for a fresh supply of coals for their foot-stoves, the men repaired to the tavern, to warm themselves, and regale the inner man with a mug of warm toddy^ while they discussed the principal events of the week, or expressed their views on the subject of the morning's discourse. For the annual meeting of 1823, an article was })lace(l in the Avarrant as follows : " To see if the town Avill vote (jr consent that a stove, or stoves, may be Placed in the jNIeeting hoiise in Marll)orough to render said house com- fortable during public Avorshi^) on the Sabbath and on other occasions in cold Avcather, Avhich shall be furnished and supported by Su])scribers."' NotAvithstanding some men of influence Avere o})])()sed to the nu'asure, the town voted: "that the Stove or Stoves maybe Placed in the Meeting house to render said House comfortahh; in cold weather to be placed in said house by Subscribers." " Voted, the Stove or Stoves to be placed in the Meeting house may be Placed at the east and Avest Doors during the pleasure of the toAvn." Sometime previous to the next annual town-meeting, the stoves Avere procured and placed in the house in accordance Avith the vote of the town. A l)rief Til!'; cRNTiiK :\iKi:TiN(;-n()rsK. 89 experience in a Avarni elmrcli elianged public o})inion, and only a short time elapsed before those who had been most opposed to stoves seemed to rejoice equally with the rest in their warmth and comfort. Previous to 1825, money was raised for the support of preaching by a tax assessed on all ratable polls in the same manner as for schools, or any other public purpose. Near the close of the last century, however, laws were enacted by which any person entertaining different religious opinions, and joining himself to some other society, and contributing to the support of its minister, was excused by the town from paying this tax, on the presentation of a certificate signed hy the minister or clerk of his society. The fol- lowing is a specimen of these certificates: — DuHLiN April y« 8«^ 1794. These may certify whom it may concei'ii, that William White Jr. has joined the Baptist Society in this place and has agreed to do his propor- tion toward tlie support of the ministry with them. JOHN MUZZEY Clerk. It not unfrequently happened that some persons not willing to identify themselves with any society in their own town Avould go the distance of thirty or forty miles to connect themselves with some other church or society. It would seem by the following certificate that Richard Roberts was one of these : — Claremount, Ajjril, 4, 1797. To all whom it may concern. This may certify that Richard Roberts Usqr has joined the Episcopal Church and pnt himself under my care. Test. DANIEL BARBER, Rector of Union Church Claremounl. These certificates were not numerous at first, only five or six a year ; but in 1824, the last year the town was taxed for this purpose, out of one hundred and sixty-six tax-payers there were only fifty-one assessed for the minister's salary. Most of the persons presenting certificates were Baptists who had connected themselves with tlie society in Du])lin. In later years, a Baptist church was formed in 1o\^n. some account of which will be given in another chapter. 14 90 iiisTOKY OF ^iAi;Li!ouor(;H. July 1, 1819, a law was enacted in this State, wliieli opened the "way for a nic le t^ntisfactory nietlicd of tniptnt- ino- the gospel. In the langnaoe of this statute, ''Eaeh sect or denomination of Christians in this State, may asso- ciate and form societies, may admit n)end)ers, may establish rules and by-laws for their regulation and government, and shall have all the corporate powers which may be necessary to assess and raise money by taxes upon the polls and ratable estate of the members of such associations, and to collect and appropriate the same for the purpose of building and repairing houses of public worship and for the support of the ministry." There was also a provision that no person should be taxed ])y such society, or be considered a member thereof without " his consent was first had and o1)tained"; and any person having become a member of such an asso- ciation had libert}' to withdraw his name at any time. No a(h'antage was taken of the provisions of this act until near the close of Mr. Fish's ministry. In 1823, the towji voted that the selectmen be a committee to proportion the time of occupation of the meeting-house to each religious denomination. This the selectmen Avere ijistructed to do each year, also to divide the interest of the ministerial fund among the several denominations, " accord- ing to the proportion each pavs of the public taxes." How long each society was allowed to occu})y the meeting-house at this time is not known, but in 1835 it was proportioned as follows : — Unitarians, 1§ days. Baptist, 6§ " Methodist, 10^ " Congregationulist, V) " Universali.st, 20^ •• It is probal)le that the Congregationalists did ueit occupy the house their proportion of the time, as they had tnts^-ear previous built one of their own at the village. The old meeting-house now began to show marks of decay, till" exterior being in a somewhat dilapidated condition. The town had been rejieatcdly asked to repair the house. riiK cKNTi;!': Mi:icTiN(;-iU)rsi;. !t1 and the siil)ic'c't liad Ix't'ii (list'iissod at Ujc annual mcctjiiy each year, with tlic same result, — a refusal to take any definite aetion. In 1884. the town was again rcK^uested to repair tlie Jiouse, but the only aetion taken Avas a vote to dismiss the article. But the citizens were now thoroughly alive to the subject; and with such men as Samuel Jones, Sen., Abiel Alger, and Benjamin Whitiie}^ Jr., for their leaders, they were not disposed to give up the project so easily, and it was deter- mined, if possible, to procure by subscription a sum sufficient to repair the house in a suitable manner. The following is a copy of the subscription paper circulated throughout the town for that purpose, together with the names of the subscribers, and the amount each one contributed : — We the undersigned, inhabitants of.tlie town of Mavlboi'ougl), do hereby severally agree to pay the sums set against our names, to be appropriated for repairing the old meeting-house in said town. Provided that a sum shall be subscribed or contributed sufficient to make the necessary repairs on said house, otherwise this to be void. Marlborough, March 24, 1834. Names. Eber Tenney, f 17.50 Asa Porter, 17.00 Noah ^Vliite, 1.00 William Tenney, .... 25.00 John Lane, 17.00 Clark Mason, 6.75 Abel Nutting, 5.00 Luther Hemenway, . . . C.12J George Richardson, . . . •2.50 Asa Hastings, 2.25 Levi Gates, 6.12^ Abiel Alger, 7.00 Levi W. Porter, .... 7.00 Caleb Baker, 3.00 Allen Woodward, .... 5.00 Moses Hunt, 10.00 Isaac T. Chase, .... 1.00 Aaron Stone, 5.00 Charles Gilbert, .... 5.12^^ Levi Thatcher, 1.00 Names. Ziba Nason, . 15.00 Ziba Nason, Jr., . . . . 2.00 David Wilkinson, . . . 6.00 Daniel Buss, .... . 1.00 Thomas Frink, .... . 3.00 Benjamin Whitney, Jr., . 19..50 Calvin Hastings, . . . . 5.00 Tabatha Baker, . . . . 3.00 Aaron Parker, .... . 5.00 Asa Porter, Jr., . . . . 5.00 George Harvey, . . . . 8.50 Asa Bemis, . 3.00 John B. Farrar, . . . . 2.00 Jeremiah Herrick, . . . 2.00 Ebenezer Herrick, . . . 1.00 Arteraas Collins, . . . . 2.00 Charles Collister, . . . . 1.00 Thomas Adams, . . . . 12.00 William Richardson, . 1.00 James Harvey, .... . 1.00 02 FrrSTOKY OF ^rArvLROTJOTTOTT. Names. Jonathan Bemis, Jr., . . !§2.00 Daniel Reed 3.00 Jabez Wight 1.00 Franklin Priest, '25 Peter Starkey, 1.00 Thaddeus Parnienter, . . 5.00 Josej^h Woodward, . . . 15.00 Enoch Bemis, o.OO Calvin Newton, .... 15.'25^ Miriam Newton. .... 2.00 Xancy Newton 2.00 Jonathan Bemis, .... 7.00 Nathan E. Wild, .... 5.00 James Batcheller, .... 15.00 Luke Blodgett, .... 5.5(? Ezekiel Cudwortli, . . . 5.00 Archa Tenney, 6.00 Samuel Jones, 30.00 Calvin Stone, 5.00 Calvin Tenney, .... 20.00 Stillman Woodward, . . . G.OO Daniel Cutting, .... 1.00 Charles Ilolman, Jr., . . 1.07 Albert Jones, 1.00 After the circulation of this paper, tlio subscribers met on the twelfth day of May, 1834, and organized by choosing Levi Gates, chairman, and Nathan Wild, clerk. Allen Woodward, Calvin Tenne}', Samuel Jones, Benjamin Whitne}', Jr., and Abiel Alger, were chosen a committee to examine the house, and report what repairs were nec- essary to be made. • Tlie committee made examinatiou. and reported as folloA\s : — 1st. To iuider]>in said linuse with split stone, eighteen inclies wide, suitably fitted. 2d. Two thresholds, one in the front, and the other at tiie west door, with suitable door.stones. 3d. One new door in front, 3.i- or 4 ft. wide, and mnv doors at the west, the size of the old ones and close the east door. 4th. To luive all new window-frames, and sashes where it is necessary. 5th. All new clapboards on the front, and to repair the other side and ends with those now on the fi-ont. and suitably paint tlic sanif. Daniel Emerson, . $1.00 Curtis F. Hunt. . 1.00 Oliver Boyden, 3.50 Daniel Woodward, l.(»0 Joseph Collins, 1.00 Amos Sargent, . . 5.0(1 Aluier Russell. . . 1.00 William Greenwood. 2.00 John 8ai-geiit. . . 1.00 ^Elijah Fitch, . . 1.00 Lorenzo Hunt, . . 1.00 Daniel Clapp, . . 1.00 Osgood Collister, . 1.00 Lorenzo White, 1.00 Franklin Clapi), . 1.00 DanierWade, . . 1.00 Darius Richardson. 1.00 Jedediah T. Collins, 1.00 G. and N. Converse, .25 Cyrus Ayers, . . .25 Jonah Davis, . . .12.1. Abraham Priest, . . 1.00 Abner Bovden, . 1.50 THE CEXTItK MKiyriNC-llorSE 93 This repoil luiviiig bi'tui accepted by tlic siihsciihcrs, Saiiuiel Jones, Abiel Alger, and Allen Woodward, were chosen a coniniittee to make the necessary repairs, llic esti- mated cost of which was tw(t hniidred and iifleen (ioliai's. There having been considerable more than tliis snm raised, the snl)scribers voted, at an adjourned meeting, to build a belfrv on the west end ol" thi' house, according to a ])lan to be drawn bv Capt. Charles (iilbert. The Avork ol" re])airing went forward as ra])idly as circumstances would j)erinit, and by the ndddle of Novend)er the work was completed. ' The belfry was two stories in height : the hrst st(nT was about ten feet sij^nare, and rose twelve feet above the ridge- pole ; the second story was proportionate in size and height, and the appearance of the house was greatly improved. No sooner was the work of repairing completed than those who were the prime movers in this good work began to agitate the subject of procuring a bell for the house. Sat- isfied that the town would not aid in this project, it was decided to pay for the bell in the same w'ay the repairs were made ; nameh', by subscription. Accordingly, the following paper was drawai up and circulated through the toAvn, and a sufficient sum raised to purchase a bell : — The undersigned do hereby severally ayi-ee to pay the .sums against their names to purchase a Bell for the old Meeting house in Marl- horough, said Bell to be divided into one hundred and ninety shares, estimated at one dollar each, and l)e the property of tlie subscribers. Dec. 9, 183i. Eber Tenney 'f 5.00 Asa Porter.' 5.00 William Tenney 5.00 John Lane, ;3.00 Clark Mason, 4.00 Luther Hemenway, . . . .'5.00 (4eorge Richardson, . . . 1.00 Calvin Newton, 10.00 -Miriam Xewton 1.00 Xancy Xewton, .50 Jonathan Bemis, .... 4.00 James Batcheller, .... 10.00 Luke Blodgett. Ezekiel Cudworth, .... §1.00 Samuel Jones, 10.00 Moses Hunt, 1.00 Isaac T. Chase, 1.00 Charles Gilbert 2.00 Ziba Xason, Jr.. 1.00 David Wilkinson 1.00 Daniel Buss, 1.00 Benjamin Whitney. Jr.. . . 5.00 Aaron Parker, 1.00 Asa Porter, Jr., 2.00 George Harvey, 5.00 . . . 1.00 2.00 I Jolm B. Farrar, 94 HISTORY OF :\iAi;i.r.oi;or(;ii. Artf-mas Collins ii^l.OO Charles CoUister 1.00 Tlioinas Adams "J.OO Calvin Toniu-v 'j.OO Emery J)iokinsi)n, .... 1.00 (reorge W. Ilowanl, . . . 1.00 Benjamin Tliatolier, . . . 1.00 Elijali CJates :5.00 Abraham Priest 1.00 Asa Hastings 1.00 Levi Gates, 1.00 Abiel Alger, 5.00 Levi \y. Portei- --'.00 Caleb Baker 1.00 Joseph AVoofl ward 1.00 Enoch Beniis -J.OO 'Stillman AVoodward, . . . 1.00 Curti.s F. Hunt, 25 Oliver Boyden, 1.00 Joseph Collins. 1.00 Amo.s Sargent. 1.00 William Greenwood, . . . ;5.00 John 8argt>nt, Daniel Clapp. . . Daniel Wade. . . -lonathan Bemis, ,Ir., (t. and X. Converse. iJil.OO 1.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 Cyrus Avers, 1.00 Jonah Davis, 1.00 Josiah Knight 1.00 Josiah Fitch 1.00 Ebenezer Ilemenway. . . . 1.00 John Morse 1.00 Stephen AVheeler 10.00 Daniel W. Farrar .5.00 Joseph Haskell 10.00 Daniel Priest 2.25 Keuben Ward 1.00 .Jacob Brown .50 Ruth Stone, 1.00 Xathaiiiel Richardson. . . 1.00 Lucy Collins .50 Amos Cummings, .... 1.00 The bell, which weighed about seven hundred pounds, was purchased by Samuel Jones at an expense of -$175.25. The ancient custom of ringing the bell at noon was followed for several years, the town employing Nathan Wild who lived near the meeting-house, " to ring the bell at noon and on funeral occasions." The meeting-house was now used by tlie Methodist, Bap- tist, and Universalist denominations. In 1842, the jNIetho- dist Society, having l)iiilt a house of worship in Pottersville, removed to tliat place. They Avere soon followed by the Baptists, who built a church in the village. The house was now mainly occupied b}^ the Universalists, who had j)reach- ing about one-fourth of the time ; but they, feeling that their place of worship was too far from the now rajjidly growing village, built a house in the latter place in 1851. The old house, now unused except for town-meetings and funeral occasions, began to show signs of decay ; and a severe hail-storm, wliicli swept oncv (lie town, broke nearly all the THIO CKNTIM': MKKI'INC-llorSK. 05 Q'lass in tlu' west ciid, iiiid niiscliicNdiis l)()\s, l)\' llirow iiiL!' stones at the windows, coniplctcd the \\i'('(d< ('(ininicnccd hy the storm, so that in a slmrt time tlicic was iidt a wIhiIc pane of ghiss rcniaiiuni;'. The town now l)t'canu' anxious to sell the Imnsc. liut a (litHc'ulty here presented itself. It was niainlaincil hy sonic that the town had no k'^al viii,ht to tlic huildini;', l»nl that it was the property of tlie j)iM\'-liohh'rs. Tlu' subject was warmly discussed at towu-nicctings; l)ut those li\iniioiiit a coiiiiuitlcc with lull power to make such sale and execute a conveyance oi' said house and its appurtenances to the purchaser, said commitfet; firsl jiuhlishing notice of the time and place of sale. At the annual nieetino- in 1800, the selectmen were instructed to sell the house, and make a conveyance of the same according to law. On the fifth day of the follow- ing j\lay, it was again set up at auction, and bid off by James Townsend for fifty dollars. The door-stones were bid off by Rev. T. L. Fowler, and were soon after placed before the doors of the Methodist meeting-house, where the}' still remain. Mr. Townsend removed the pews and the best of the finish inside, which he used for building and other purposes ; Init the house was allowed to stand until the summer of 1865, Avhen in the stillness of the midnight hour, no longer able to withstand the ravages of time, it fell to tlie ground. Mr. George Thatcher purchased the timbers. The best part being old pine, he manufactured it into pails ; and nearly every family in town purchased one or more of these pails as a memento of the old Centre Meeting-house. CHAPTER VI. ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. Eablt Efforts to secure Preaching. — Cuurch formed. — Settle- ment OF Rev. Joseph Cummings. — Difficulties with Mr. Cum- MiNGS. — His Dismissal. — Protracted Controversy with Mr. Cummings. — Half-way Covenant. — Different Ministers em- ployed. — Rev. Ebenezer Hill. — Halloavay Fish called. — His Letter of Acceptance. — Ordination of Mr. Fish. — His Character. — His Death. — Union between Church and Toavn Dissolved. — A Society formed. — Rev. Sai-mon Bennett. — A New Society. — Building of the Brick Church. — Rev. Moses G. Grosvenor. — Rev. Giles Lyman. — Meeting-House enlarged. — A Parsonage built. — Resignation of Mr. Lyman. — Rev. Henry B. Underwood. — Rev. Silas P. Cook. — Rev. John L. Merrill. — Meeting-House repaired and enlarged. — A New Organ. — The Chapel. — The Sabbath School. The Proprietors' charter reserved one right of land for the ministry, and another for the first settled minister ; but these could not be made available until a minister was settled. The early settlers having come from towns in which the institutions of Christianity were maintained, must have felt severely the deprivations to which they were subjected, in having no public worship on the Sabbath. Especially was this the case with those who were members of the Christian church. Accordingly, as soon as they had reared a comfort- able shelter for their families, and brought their fields into such a state of cultivation as to supply their daily food, they commenced to make preparations for uniting in the public worsliip of God. No record exists to show that there was any preaching in tlu! township) jjrcvious to 1771. At a meeting the 21st of ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 99 March in that year, the Proprietors voted "to Lay a tax of one farthing on the acre for to liire preaching with." "Voted that Mr. Benjamin Tucker, Mr. Daniel Goodenow & Mr. James J3rewer, be a Committee to liire a preacher & voted that the preaching begin about tlie iirst of June next." The sum raised amounted to £1Q Ss. 6d., or about 'f54.75. Whether the whole of tliis sum was expended for preaching tliis year is unknown ; but we find on the Proprietors' rec- ords that twelve pounds were paid to Mr. Abraham Wood, and also allowed " Lieut Benj-' Tucker for boarding Mr. Wood £2 lis. 4cZ." Mr. Wood was a graduate from Har- vard College, of the class of 1767, and was ordained the first pastor of the church in Chesterfield, December 31, 1772, where he remained till his death, October, 1823, aged seventy-five. In 1772-73, the same sum was raised for preaching as in" the preceding 3'ear ; but there is nothing on the records to show who were the ministers employed, beyond the fact that during this time there were five children baptized by the Rev. Benjamin Brigham of Fitzwilliam. It is probable, however, there was some preaching during the summer months by different ministers. In 1774, the desire to settle a minister seems to have increased; for, at a meeting the 19th of January of this year, it was voted to " Chuse a Committee to provide a minister on Probation, in order for a Settlement. Voted that Eliphalet Stone, andrew C-olburn, and Phinehas Parki be a Committee for that purpose. Voted to Raise half peney on the acre for to provide preaching as afore said." As no report of this committee has been found, we are unable to give any account of the ministers employed. At a meeting, July 12, 1775, it was voted "to hire some preaching this summer." A committee was chosen to pro- vide a minister. At a subsequent meeting, Capt. Jonathan Frost was allowed £1 2s. "for procuring a minister and keeping his liorse." Nothing farther toward settling a min- ister seems to liave been doiu' by the Pro[)rictors. 100 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. The town being incorporated tlie next year, it riglitfully belonged to the citizens to provide preaching. They, how- ever, did nothing about the matter until April, 1777, when a meeting was held, and it was voted "to hire preaching. Voted, to Raise twenty Pounds for that Purpose. .Voted, that Capt James Lewis, Abijah Tucker and David Wheeler Be a Committee to hire Preaching. Voted, to give the com- mittee this instruction, Nt)t to a grce with one for more than fore Sabbaths at first. Not without he hath a mind of settling." This committee appear to have been no more successful than the former ; but the people were in earnest as to this matter, and the subject was brought up at subsequent meetings. About this time, the Rev. Joseph Cummings, a native of Topsfield, Mass., came among them ; and, after preaching several Sabbaths as a candidate, a town-meeting was called, August 6, 1778, at which it was voted " to Cum into sum method of Settling a minister in said Town." Voted, to give Mr. Cummings a call to settle witli us as a preacher. " Voted to Cliuse a Committee to propose a method of his settling with us. " Voted, Lent Benjamin Tucker, Capt James Lewis, Lent. Eliphalet Stone, Lent James Brewer, and Mr. Samuel Soper, a Committee for that jDurpose. " Voted, to Except of this Connnittees Proposals," which were as follows : — State of New Hainpsliire. Cheshire Ss August y^' 0, 1778, att a Legal meeting of the 'J'owu of marlborough the sixth Day of August inst, made Choise of Mr. Richard Atwell moderator for s'^ meeting, Voted to give the Rev, mr, Joseph Cummings of Sea Brook a Call to Settle in S'^ marlborougli as a gospel minister. Voted By Said town to make the llev, m'' Cummings the fol- lowing proposals for a settlement, to take one share of Land in said . marlborough Containing By Estimation one hundred and fifty acres, one hundred acre Lots the Lot on which the meeting house stands on Which we Desire to Reserve four acres Round the meeting house For jmliliik use. Voted to Clear Kigliteen acres on said Lot Leaving ten trees on ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 101 Each acre in addition to what is ah'eady C'lcaied on Said Lot in two years, From t)rdi nation one hall' yearly, A'oted that the Kev'' in'' Ciiiii- niings Shall have Liherty to go onto the ministry Land in said town Cut any quantity of timher of any sort that shall lie Nesesary for liis own Buildings. For his salery to have For the first year Forty pounds, for the Second year Forty five pounds, for tlie third year fifty pounds and to Continue Fifty pounds yearly, until thei-e Becomes one hundred and ten families in said Town then to have Sixty Six ])ounds thirteen shillings and fore pence yearly so Long as he shall Kenuiin our gospel minister all the above sums to be made equevelent to lly at three Shil- lings and fore pence p'' Bushel. Lieut BENJa TUCKER LiKUT JOSEPH COLLI NGS Committee MH DANIEL GOODEXOW - in Behalf of MK WILLIAM BARKER marlborough Lieut JAMES BREWER J DAVID AVHEELER Town Clark. The following answer of Mr. C'unimings is dated at INIarl- boroiigh, October 12, 1778 : — To the Inhabitants of the Town of i\Iarlborough. Friends and Fellow Christians, — Whereas, it has pleased the great head of the Church to incline your hearts to settle the gospel ministry among you and disposed you to give me (unworthy as I am) an invitation to the important work ; after mature deliberation and many anxious thoughts upon a matter of so great moment ; having been im}>ortunate with God for direction and asked advice of men — I conclude to accept your invitation (provided you \\il\ allow me two or three Sabbaths yearly during my ministry to visit my friends as they live at a distance,) Humbly confiding in Divine goodness for assistance faithfully to discharge the duty of a gospel minister, and begging your earnest prayers . that a blessing may attend my ministerial labors. Heartily wishing that grace mercy and peace may be the stability of our times — I subscribe your aifectionate Friend and Servant, JOSEPH CUMMINGS. Nov. 11, 1778, was the day chosen for the ordination ; and Benjamin Tucker, Eliphalet Stone, William Barker, and Daniel Goodenow, were chosen to send letters-missive to the several churclies selected to call a council to ordain Mr. Cummings ; namely, to the churches of New Ipswich, Fitzwilliam, Swanzey, Dublin, Keene, and Winchendon. How h)ng Mr. Cummings had preached before his ordiua- 102 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. tion is not known, but tlie following accounts copied I'roni the records give evidence that it must have been, at least, two months : — "•Voted to Except of Capt James Lewis account For his keeping m"" Cummings horse too weeks and three Days one pound and ten shillings. "• Voted to Except of the widow martlia frost account for her Boarding m"" Cummings fore weeks & his horse, thirty six pound. "Voted to Except of m"" Samuel Serjents account for Bording mr Cummings one fortnit and for keeping his horse three pounds." The council convened on the day appointed. Rev. Mr. Farrar of New Ipswich was chosen moderator of the council, and Rev. Mr. Brigham of Fitzwilliani scribe. After its organization, it proceeded, to form a church, consisting of eight members, with a covenant, the following being a copy : — We, whose names are hereunto .Subscribed, appreliending ourselves called of God into the Church State of the gospel ; do first of all confess ourselves unworthy to be so highly favord of the Lord : and admire that free and rich grace of his, that triumphs over so great unworthi- ness ; and then with an humble reliance on the aid of divine grace, therein prongiised, for them that in a sense of their inability to do any good thing, do humbly lay hold on his covenant, and would choose the things which please liim, — , We do publicly and solemnly declare our serious belief in the Chris- tian religion, as containtid in the Sacred Scriptures, heartily resolving to conform our lives unto the I'ules of that holy ivligioiras long as we live in tlie world, — We give up ourselves to the Lord Jehovah who is tlic Fatlicr and the Son and the Holy Ghost, and avouch Him this day to l)e our God, our Fatlier, our Saviour, and our leader, and receive him, as our portion foi'ever, — We give up ourselves to the l)lessed Jesus who is the Lord -IcIioNali, adhere to Him as the head of his people in the coseiurnt of grace, and rely on Him, as our Prophet, and our Priest, and our King, to bring us unto eternal blessedness. — We acknowledge our cxcrlasting and inliol\' eo[ple and also tlieir several defenses and luiving attained all the light and evidence we could, came unanimously into the following resolutions, viz. With regard to the first general article charging the ReV' Mr. Cuni- mings witli unfaithfidness iu the great work of the gospel ministry, which general being ut if I am one of Christ's ministers. He will always be with me according to His promise to His Appostlcs and to His ministers, " Lo I am with you alway even unto the end of the world" and by His assistance I shall lie enabled to do all things which shall ])e incumbent on me as one of His ambassadoi's. What shall I say more? will it be imiiroper to pi'ay that the relation which will probably ere long be formed between us. may l)e lasting happy and profitable for Time and Eternity ? may we live together in peace and be helpers of each other in the way to (ilory ? This I present you as my answer ^'ith the following exceptions, viz. That T slioidd have tlie liberty of being absent from you two Sabl)aths in the course of every year during niv niinistrv with aou. lIAi.LOWAY FLSH. Marlborough. :\Iay. 1!)"'. 170:5. The town selected the last Wednesday of September as the day for the ordination, and voted to send to the ehnrelies in Ui)ton, Northl)ridL;e. WcstI)orongh, Keene, Swanzey, Fitz- williaiii. irnidoc. ami l)iil)liii. Vot'jd to choose a Comniitlee of three men to pnn'ide for tlie CouiumI. Voted tlnit tlie committee i)rovide for the Council and keep an account of the cost aiul lay it l)el'oi'e the Town. Voted Deacon Stone, Lt. IJeubeii Waid, and Mi'. Silas Fife, be a Coin- inittee to jirovidr for the Council. Tlic pastors (»r the above ehnrehes were present, with tlie e.xeeplioii of W('stl)or<)noli and ixiiidoc. whicli were repre- ECCLESIASTICAL HISTOKY. 113 beiited 1)y tlieir delegates. Tliis council convened at tlie lioiise of Peletiali Cuiunnngs on tlie 24tli of September, 1793, at three o'clock P. INI. The examination of the candidate was interrupted by Daniel Cutting who presented a remon- strance against the ordination of Mr. Fish, signed by Richard Roberts and twelve others. The council ^•otcd that it was not a sufficient bar to prevent the ordination. At this time, the distinction between the Orthodox and what afterwards became the Unitarian elements of Cono-re- gationalism was becoming marked. Although there was no actual division, j-et it was clearly understood on which side each minister belonged, and the controversy frequently cropped out at councils. Mr. Goddard of Swanzey was the leader of what was then called the '' Armenian " element. The Fishes, father and sons, were stanch Calvinists. Rev. Elisha Fish of Upton, the father of Hallowa}-, was moder- ator of the council, and of course the strong points of Cal- vinism Avere clearly brought out in the examination. When the council were by themselves, led on b}' Mr. Goddard who was scribe, a minority of four voted against ordaining. This was in the evening, it being the custom to examine one day, and ordain the next. The next morning, when the council assembled, the moderator, having consulted previously with his Calvinistic brethren, proposed a reconsideration of the vote which had passed by a strong majority to ordain the candidate. On recpnsidering, all voted not to ordain ; thus yielding the ground entirely to the four "Armenians." But to this they dared not consent, knowing that it would raise a storm of indignation against them. Accordingly, Mr. Goddard immediately moved another reconsideration, and the vote was made unanimous in favor of the ordination. ]\Ir. Goddard said he voted for it under the circumstances, but •• with fear and trembling."" Mr. Fish was born in Upton, Mass., Aug. 2, 1762. Grad- uated at Dartmouth College, 1790. His father. Rev. Elisha Fish, was pastor of the Congregational Church in Upton for many years. Mr. Fish was a very different man from Mr. Cunimings, serious and dcAout in sj)irit, exemplary in bis 17 114 HISTOKY OF UAELBOEOUGH. life, being faithful as a minister of Christ. He was a man of sound judgment, but' not of popular pulpit talents. He was not a natural scholar, like his brother Elisha, who settled in Gilsum; but he was a much better manager of business. Their father once said of them, " Halloway must teach Elisha farming, and Elisha must teach Halloway theology.'" Although a veiy blunt man in his speech, he was friendl}^ toward other denominations, and always remained on good terms with them. He was a most vigilant and sagacious watchman on the walls of Zion. Very feAv men, if any, of his times, were possessed of . keener discernment as to truth and error. He defended the truths and exposed the errors of his times with boldness and strength, to an extent not common to liis contemporaries in the ministry. At one time, he preached against dancing; and some of the gay young people who were accustomed to attend balls took offence, and slieared his horse's mane and tail. To this he paid no attention, but rode his horse everywhere just as before. When any questions were asked, he replied " that it was not exactly to his own taste, but it was to the taste of some of his people, and so he submitted to it." He was a sound, sensible preacher ; and people who liked sound doctrine, and plain, practical sense, always enjoyed his preaching. After the death of Rev. Mr. Hall of Keene, the neigh- boring ministers, as was the custom, supplied the pulpit in turn, for the benefit of the widow. The church in Keene, at that time, was composed of both the Calvinistic and Unitarian elements, and of course there was much com- paring of the preachers of the different views. AVhen Mr. Howe of Siirry (who was a decided Armenian) preached, he was thought very dull and weak. Elijah I'arker, Esq., meeting Hon. John Prentiss on ^Monday, rallied him on the dulness of his Armenian preacher. " Well," says Mr, Pi-cntiss, *'he will do to offset Father Fish, of Marlborough." "I'oohl"' says Mr. Parker: "I'd rather have Father Fish's great coat slulTcil. in the pidpit. than Mr. Howe." ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 115 During tlio luinisti y of Mr. Fish, the cliiirch greatly in- creased in membcrsliip. The years of 1813-14 were seasons of special ingathering; thirty-two being i-eceivetl into the church by profession of faith. The largest increase in any single year was in 1822, when forty were added, all by pro- fession of faith, seven of whom still survive. The whole number of members added to the church during the term of Mr. Fish's pastorate of nearly thirty-one years, was one liundred and seventy-eight, and three hundred and three children were baptized. Mr. Fish died Sept. 1, 1824, aged sixty-two years and one month. The wife of Mr. Fish .was Hannah Brigham of West- borough, Mass., to whom he was united previous to his settlement in Marlborough. To her few acquaintances who still remain, no words of eulogy are necessary, to add to their estimation of her life and character. Her pure and useful life, her consistent example, winning deportment, and earnest piety, shed a beautiful halo and a gentle radi- ance over her husband's long pastorate. To that beloved and venerated pastor, she was truly a helpmeet in all home duties, and a most efficient aid in winning souls to Christ. Many rise up to call her blessed. She remained in Marl- borough until 1840, when she returned to Westborough to reside with her nephew, Halloway Brigham, where she died a few years after. At the death of Mr. Fish, the union which had existed between the town and church was dissolved, and a society formed, September 25th of the same year, which was known by the name of " The First Evangelical Congregational Society of Marlborough." Thirty-seven persons affixed their names to the constitution, only two of whom are now living; namely. Rev. Luther Wiswall of Windham. Me., and Benjamin Whitney of Littleton, N.H. May 25, 1825, the church and society united in extend- ing a call to Rev. Salmon Bennett to become their pastor, with a salary of -$300 per 3^ear, which call was accepted ; and he was installed September 28th of the same year. Mr. Bennett had prcviousl}- been settled in Winchester, where 116 HISTORY OF ISfARLBOROITGH. he remained eight years, and had also hxbored one year in Roxbur}^ His pastorate here was only about five and a half years. The church and society being unable to make up his salary for a whole year, he was dismissed, April 5, 1831. During his pastorate, twenty-five united with the church, only five of Avhom remain. At this period, the chnrch suffered mueh inconvenience for the want of a stated place in which to liold tlieir meetings on the Sabbath. There were four other denominations that claimed a right to the centre meeting-house; and the Con- gregationalists being few in numbers could only occupy it occasionally, holding tlieir ser^tices in scliool-liouses and private dwellings the rest of the time. After the dismission of Mr. Bennett, Rev. Erastus Curtis labored for them one year, and from that time until 1835 they had no stated preaching. June 25, 1833, the society having disbanded, a new one Avas formed, which took the name of the Trinitarian Congre- gational. Society of Marlborough. At an adjourned meeting of this society, June 29, 1833, it was voted to build a meet- ing-house, to be under the control of the society, which should be built by subscription, giving to all the subscribers the choice of the spot on which the. house should stand, and the materials of which it should be built, and the choice of the committee or agents to build the same. There were numerous locations spoken of as the site for the new house. Of the two most prominent, one was near Esquire Sweetser's estate, and the other near Charles Hol- man's, where it was finally located. Soon after the above meeting, the following subscription paper was circulated under date of Aug. 17, 1833 : — The subscribers taking into consideration the inconvenience of having but one house of worship for several denominations wish to build a meeting house on the following conditions, to wit : — 1st. The house shall be for tlie use of the Trinitarian Congregational Society of Marlborough, and shall be legally secured to said society or to persons appointed by it, to hold in trust for the society, and no other denomination shall have any right to use said 1ioiis(> without the consent of the society. ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 117 2(1. The suliscri[it.i()ns sliall ho ]iai(l to Win. Karrar, treasurer of the society, or liis yucoossor in otiice. 8(1. The house shall be located in that place ol! those ineutioued below for which the greater number of shares shall l)e subscribed, taking into consideration the price of the building spot; and no ])erson shall be obliged to pay subscri[)tion except tlie house be plaei'd on llic sjjot for which he subscribes. 4th. The estimated expense of tlie house shall he divided into shares of ten dollars each, and each subscriber shall have the right of one vote for each share he may own, provided always that this right of suffrage shall not be so coustruc'd as to etfect the right of said society to control the pulpit. Names. Near Charles Holman's. Near Esq. Sweetser's. James Farrai-, • . 20 David Wilkinson, Ji-., .... 20 William Farrar, 6 3 Luther Wiswall, G 3 Calvin Stone, 1 3 Charles Holman o Abner Boyden, 20 Ebeuezer Hemenway, • .... 2 1 Simeon Wliitcomb, . • . . . G 3 Jonas Woodward, 2 2 Phinehas Farrar, 5 Benjamin Whitney, ..... 5 Charles Collister, 1 John Joslin, 1 Asa Frost, 20 10 Josiah Woodward, 2 Jacob Woodward, 1 Ziba Nason, 3 Allen Clapp, 1 Daniel Buss, 1 John Wiswall, i 4 Joseph Frost, 2 121 38 By many it was considered a foolliardy undertaking to build a meeting-liouse on its present site, and the society, being few in nuniliers, found it up-hill work ; but each one took hold in earnest, and did with his might what his hands found to do. Some aid was also received from neighboring churches and friends abroad, and the work went steadily 118 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. forward; and the new meeting-house was dedicated, Oct. 29, 1834. At this time there were not more than six or eiglit dwell- ing-houses, a store, blacksmith-shop, grist-mill, and tavern, in what now comprises the A'illage ; and the building of the brick meeting-house was,- no doubt, one of the determin- ing causes of the beautiful village which has sprung up around it. Rev. Moses G. Grosvenor was installed pastor of the church, May 20, 1835. Mr. Grosvenor was a graduate of Dartmouth College and Andover Theological Seminary, and had before labored as settled paster in ^Vcworth, N.H., and Barre, Mass. Thirty-two united with the church during his pastorate. Difficulties growing out of a case of discipline, which came before the church, led to his dis- mission, Dec. 2, 1840. He afterward removed to Troy, Ohio. He died in Boston, Mass., in the summer of 1879. Rev. Giles Lyman was born in Belchertown, Mass., ]\Iarch 16, 1802 ; son of Giles and Mary (Hubbard) Lyman. Graduated at Amherst College in 1827, and Andover Theo- logical Seminary in 1831. Mr. Lyman maintained a high standing in college and seminary as a scholar and a most conscientious Christian man. He was ordained at Jaifre}', N.H., Jan. 11, 1832, and installed colleague of Rev. Laban Ainsworth, over the Con- gregational Church, as the first colleague this church settled in connection with Mr. Ainsworth. Mr. L3anan thoroughly indoctrinated this people, and thus shielded them against any temptation in the future to settle a pastor of too lax views. This pastorate was dissolved. May 3, 1837. After this, he was acting pastor at Fowlerville, N.Y., 1837-38, and at Ashburnham, Mass., 1838-39, and at Gardner, Mass., 1839-40. He commenced to labor in Marlborough, Dec. 13, 1840. The distressing and disheartening malady wliich afflicted him, making it problematical in his own mind whether he could long discharge the duties of a permanent pastorate, led him to decline a settlement during tlie twenty-eight years lie continued to labor in this town. ECCLESIASTirAI. IIISTOKV, 110 Pie found (lie clnircli, at tlic beginiiiiio' f)f liis miiiisti-v among tliem, in a seriously dislractcd condition, witli little inflnence in the community. The prejudice growino- out ot" its eslablisliment as the town church during tlie first forty years of its history, had abated bnt little, if any. Another caiise of distnrbance, the removal of the place of worship from the middle of the town to tlic village, had alienated many of the inhabitants, and they had not yet forgotten their grievances. In addi- tion, internal dissensions had brought the chnrch to the very verge of ruin. Among these contending brethren, Mr. Lyman came ; and by his wise course, unaffected piety, and unmistakable interest in the real good of all, he gained the confidence even of those who were most at variance in the chnrch, and thus was enabled in time, by the blessing of God, to so heal the differences that prosperity smiled upon the society. The church became independent of missionary aid, mainly through his self-denying efforts. Pie voluntarily relinquished what was justly his due, that others might receive its benefit. A revival among the young people, in 1842, cheered the heart of the pastor, and greatly aided in the work of recon- ciliation. 1852-58 and 1864 were seasons of revival in his ministry. Mr. Lyman continued as acting pastor until May 10, 1868, long enough to see a new generation come upon the stage. During his ministry, one hundred and thirty-eight were added to the church. After his retirement from the min- istry, he remained in town and in the parsonage until the spring of 1870, greatly assisting his successors by his counsels and his prayers, and was much respected and beloved by the people of his former charge. Al this time, Mr. and Mrs. Lyman accepted the invitation of their brother-in-law. Dr. Gordding of Winchendon, Mass., who had recently buried his Avife, to spend tlie remainder of their davs with him. to remove the desolaticni of his 120 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. home. But in tliis retreat, which God had so kindly pro- vided, Mr. Lyniau did not h)iig remain. On the 16th of November, 1872, he was released from his earthly toils and pain, and entered into his eternal rest. A brother in the ministry well acqnainted with him for many years, sa)'s of him : '' He was ever regarded by his brethren in the ministry' us an able writer and thinker. He was likewise an earnest preacher, and ver}' faithful in dealing Avith his hearers and parishioners. The responsibility of souls seemed to be upon him, and he burned to do his whole duty to them in declaring the messages of God. Though plain of s[)eech in his dealings with sin, and keen in his analysis of the motives of human action, his heart was full of the milk of human kindness, and he had most attached friends in his pastorates. Pure in morals, intelligent, and fair-nunded, he had the respect of all." Mr. Lyman married, Dec. 14, 1835, Louisa Whitney, daughter of Phinehas Whitney of Winehendon, Mass. She was born in that town, May 30, 1812. Few clergymen have ever found in a wife a more discreet or safe counsellor, or one better suited to increase his influ- ence in the pastoral relations. Her warm and affectionate social nature, her cheerful, happy, and friendly manner, and the welcome gush of youthful feeling, attracted many to her, and made them devoted and long-tried friends. She is remembered in this town, where she spent so man}- years of activity, as a woman of great excellence, gentle, modest, and unassuming in her intercourse, self-sacrificing and yet firm in her convictions of duty, and in her loyalty to truth and to Cln'ist. At the close of ten years from the commencement of Mr. Lyman's pastorate, the congregation had so increased that it was deemed expedient to enlarge their house of worship, which was carried into effect during the summer of 1851. At this time, the meeting-house, besides receiving the addi- tion of twenty ])ews and a new pulpit, Avas painted and carpeted, giving the whole a neat and tasteful appearance. Li 1859, the society, liavinn' freed itself from the debt ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 121 which had clung to it, since the repairing of the church edifice, eight years before, now began to take into serious consideration tlie expediency of buihling a house for Mv. Lyman. A meeting of the society was liekl on the 16th of June, for the purpose of taking this matter into consid- eration. A piece of hiiid having been deeded by Cliarles Hohnan to Mr. Lyman, for that purpose, it was voted to build a house thereon. Asa Maynard, Simeon Whitcomb, and Solon S. Wil- kinson, were chosen a committee to carry this vote into effect. The work was rapidly carried forward, and the house was so far completed that Mr. Lyman took possession of it the 29th of the following December. During the next year, the grounds were tastefully laid out, the high bank in front of the house was properly levelled, and INIr. Lyman, at his own expense, did much toward beautifying the grounds. To meet the expense incurred by building the parsonage, Mr. Lyman generously advanced $800. The ladies of the " Benevolent Society " took upon themselves the responsi- bility of cancelling this debt, being greatly encouraged by Warren H. Wilkinson of Springfield, Mass., who made them the generous offer of placing twenty-five cents by the side of every dollar raised for that purpose. It is needless to say that the ladies went to work with a will, and that ere long the whole was cancelled. In April, 1868, Mr. Lyman, having served as acting pastor of church and society for more than twenty-eight years, sent in the following letter of resignation : — Gentlemen op the Tiuxitarian Congregatioxal Society: I have long felt that I was unable, on account of impah-ed health, properly to perform the duties of a minister of the gospel to this Chm-ch and Society; and with this conviction and on this ground, many years ago, as some of j'ou will remember, I proposed to the Society that they should seek a supply elsewhere. But the Society unanimously, if T rightly recollect, expressed a wish that I should remain, and labor as I might be able with the health I had ; and I have acted accordingly. At the time when your committee waited wpon me after the annual meeting of the society in January, I hojjed I miglit be able to go through the labors of another year, something as in the last year, and other s 18 122 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. preceding, though 1 felt and expressed to them some doubt upon the subject : since that time, however, having narrowly escaped a serious illness, as I think from overtaxing my powers, and having a deep feeling that the work which needs to be done here in my present state of health is beyond my ability to perform, and especially in consideration of the impaired health and serious disability of my wife, requiring relief from care and labor, having sought guidance from God in a matter of such im[>ortance, I have come to the decided conclusion that the time has arrived when it is proper for me to resign my charge as your minister, an:l will do this so soon as you shall procure one to take my place. Thanking you most sincerely for all your kindness in the past, and earnestly praying that God will guide and prosper you in obtaining a suitable man to be your minister, I am most affectionately yours, GILES LYMAN. Marlborough, April 27th, 1868. Tlie resignation of Mr. Lyman was accepted, and a com- mittee chosen to hire a minister. Several candidates were employed, among whom was Rev. Henry B. Underwood. He was the son of Rev. Almon and Henrietta (Piatt) Underwood, born at Ponghkeepsie, N.Y., Dec. 25, 1839; gradnated at Williams College, 1862, and Andover Theolog- ical Seminary, 1865. He labored at Ringwood, 111., and at East Long Meadow, Mass., previons to his coming to Marl- borongh. He remained here only abont seven months. He afterwards preached at Baxter Springs, Kansas, and also at Hillsboro' Bridge, where he was installed pastor, March 7. 1871, dismissed Jnly 7, 1872. In 1873, he was acting pastor at Algona, Iowa, where he married, July 8, 1875, Emily, daughter of Capt. Elkana and Sarah (Willey) Rich of that place. He died at Algona, Sept. 2, 1875. In the sj3ring of 1869 occurred a very powerful revival, the result of a series of protracted meetings held by Rev. A. B. Earle, an evangelist. During the year, forty-three Avere added to the churcli, many of them heads of families, and among them some of our most influential citizens, thus raising the church from the feeble position it had hitherto held, to one of the strongest in the county. In April, 1869, Rev. Silas P. Cook of Keene commenced liis labors here. After preaching some two months, he ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 123 received ;i uiiaiiiinoiis call from tlie cliurcli unci society, which was accepted ; and lie was ordained pastor, June 24, 1869. Mr. Cook, at his own request, was dismissed Feb. 23, 1870, since which time he has hibored in Windsor and Ludlow, Vermont. Rev. John L. Merrill commenced his labors here in April, 1870, and was installed pastor, May 2, 1871. He was born in Haverhill, N.H., May 24, 1833, the son of Abel Kimljall and Mary (Leverett) Merrill; fitted for college at the Haver- hill Academy and Kimball Union Academy, Meriden, N.H. ; graduated at Dartmouth College in 1856, and at Princeton The(?logical Seminary, 1859. Commenced to labor at once with New Harmony Church, Chanceford, Pennsylvania. Ordained b}^ presbj^tery of Donegoll (now Westminster) as pastor of the Presbyterian Church of New Harmony, Oct. 31, 1860. Was dismissed in November, 1865, and accepted the position of principal of the combined high schools of Lancaster City, Penn. Resigned in April of the next year, to accept a call from the Congregational Church in Acworth, N.H., where he was installed. Jiuie 13, 1866, dis- missed March 1, 1870, and removed to Marlborough, where he still labors. In the summer of 1869, Hon. Rufus S. Frost of Chelsea, Mass., made known to the society his wish to present them a new organ, to be placed in the meeting-house whenever it should be prepared to receive it. At a meeting of the society, August 16, Elisha O. Wood- ward, George G. Davis, and William M. Nason, were chosen a committee to examine the meeting-house, and procure plans for enlarging or remodelling, and repairing the same, and report at a future meeting. Another meeting was held August 30, at which the com- mittee rendered their report, and it was voted unanimously to repair the house. At the same time, E. O. Woodward, Geo. G. Davis, and Wm. M. Nason were chosen "a com- mittee to solicit subscriptions for making the necessary repairs and additions." At a subsequent meeting, these gentlemen were chosen a committee " to make suitable repairs and additions." 124 HISTORY OF ]MARLBOROUGH. Through the untiring and earnest efforts of this com- mittee, the sum of $1,427.99 was raised by subscription, ■which amounted to nearly enough to defray the expense of tlie repairs. Of this sum, $300 was generously donated by Warren H. Wilkinson of Springfield, Mass. A recess was built upon the east end of the building to receive the organ, fourteen new pews were added, the ceiling frescoed, and the interior tastefully painted. Shortly after the repairs were completed, the following letter was received by the officers of the society : — CHARLES E. HOUGHTON, ^ Trustees of the J. AVHITXEY LAWRENCE, I Trinitarian ComjU Soc. CHARLES RYAN, J of Marlboro', N.H. Gentlemen, — I hereby present to j'ou and your successors in office forever the Organ recently erected in the meeting-house of the Society wliich you represent, for the use of those who may worship God with said society. Although I desire to make no conditions herewith, I trust that the wisdom of your successors may prevent their ever creating a debt which may endanger the possession and use of this organ by those for whom I have designed it. Your friend, RUFUS S. FROST. Marlboro', N.H., July 2.5, 1870. At a society meeting, August 1, the following preamble and resolutions were presented, and unanimously adopted : — Whereas, this Society have been engaged in enlarging and repairing their house of worship, and have been abundantly blessed and prospered in completing the same, therefore be it Resolved, That we devoutly acknowledge the good hand of the Lord in uniting the hearts of the people, and in enabling them to complete this work speedily in harmony and good-will. Resolved, That we duly appreciate the kind motives and benevolent feelings of Hon. Rufus S. Frost, manifested to the Society by the wise and judicious means he has employed in promoting the best interests of this Societ)'. Resolved, That we tender to Mr. Frost our most sincere and hearty tiianks for the valuable Church Organ which he has presented to this Society. Resolved, That we return thanks to Mr. W. H. Wilkinson for the liberal and timely assistance which he so generously bestowed upon this Societv. ECCLESIASTICAL H rSTOIlY. 125 Resolved, That we tender our tluuiks to the executive committee of the Society for the faithful discharge of all their duties as such committee, and for their untiring and successful efforts in bringing this work to so speedy a termination. The society, having long felt the inconvenience of having no stated place in which to hold their weekly meetings, voted, at their annual meeting in January, 1875, to purchase the old school-house, in District No. 2, for a vestry. This vote was immediately carried into effect, and during the summer the l)uilding was remodelled, and neatly and taste- fully fitted up for that purpose. Since the organization of the church, thirteen persons have officiated as deacons. The following list gives their names, with the date of their accession to the office, and that of their retirement : — A cceded. Retired. James Flood, July 5, 1779, June 24, 1790 Eliphalet Stone, July 8, 1790, Feb. 9, 1817 Silas Fife, June 22, 1791, Sept. 3, 1815 Jacob Woodward, Dec. 28, 1815, Feb. 22, 1827 Kimber Harvey, Dec. 28, 1815, Feb. 22, 1827 James Farrar, Feb. 22, 1827, Nov. 3, 1861 Asa Holman, Feb. 22, 1827, Mar. 14, 1830 Simeon Whitcomb, June 24, 1830, Jan. 1, 18G9 Luther Wiswall, June 24, 1830, Sept. 29, 1837 Charles E. Houghton, Sept. 2, 1864, — — 1875 Charles D. Tarbell, Sept. 2, 1864, Dec. 8, 1867 William M. Xason, Sept. 2, 1870. Levi A. Fuller, Oct. 30, 1874. The church numbers, at present, two hundred and thirty members. The Sabbath-school connected with this church was estab- lished in 1816, by Cyrus Stone, afterwards a missionary in India, who was also the first superintendent. The school was held during the first two years in the school-house, which then stood on the east side of the common. The exercises consisted of recitations of chapters from the Bible, liymns, and the catechism committed to memory. No lessons were given out, but each youth in attendance chose one for himself. 126 HlSTOliY OF MARLBOROUGH. All under twelve years of age received prizes according to the number of Bible verses committed. When sixty verses had been learned, the child received a ticket valued at one cent: when he had received tickets to the value of ten cents, he received a book of equal value. These tickets were printed on stiff paper, with a passage of Scripture on one side. This method lasted for sometime. Then a quantity of tracts were procured, Avhich the children were permitted to take home and read during the week, to be exchanged on the following Sabbath. About 1827, by the kindness of two former residents, Miss Polly Barker and Mrs. Philinda Lane, the school was able to have a library which consisted of about one hundred volumes of second-hand books, procured by these ladies from the Sabbath-school libraries in Boston. The whole number of scholars for the year ending May 1, 1878, was two hundred and fifteen ; average attendance, one hundred and fifteen. CHAPTER VII. HISTORY OF THE METHODIST, BAPTIST, AND UNIVERSALIST CHURCHES. First Methodist Preaching in Town. —A Class formed. — Forma- tion OF THE Church. — Class Leaders. — A Meeting-House BUILT IN Potters viLLE. — Removal to Marlborough Village. — A Parsonage built. — Early Preachers. — Lorenzo Dow. — List of Preachers. — Rev. D. S. Dexter. — Baptists first men- tioned in Town Records. — They obtain Leave to occupy the Meeting-House. — Other Places occupied by Them for Wor- ship. — A Society formed. — Names of Ministers employed. — Deacons. — A New Meeting-House. — The Society unable to SUPPORT Preaching. — They disband. — Meeting-House sold. A Univers ALisT Society formed. — Rev. E. Paine. — Sunday School. — A Library. — A Meeting-House buii-t. — Pastors. — Chltkch formed. — Parsonage. METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. The first Methodist preaching in this town was at the house of Mr. Daniel Emerson in the year 1793 by the Rev. John Hill, of Needham Circuit, New London District. The immediate occasion of this was, Mr. Emerson not believing exactly in the doctrinal views of the Congrega- tional and Baptist denominations, and hearing of a new sect called 3Iethodist, determined to hear for himself of their faith. Accordingly, he mounted his horse and rode to Ash- burnham, Mass., which was then the nearest place where Methodist preaching was held, and it is said b}' the old ministers to have been the year of its introduction there, 128 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. only three years after tlie first Methodist appointiuent within the State of Massachusetts, and five 3'ears from the first introduction of Methodism into New England. Mr. Emerson was so well pleased with the views and manners of this new sect that he earnestly besought Mr. Hill to come to his house and preach, which he did in the year above named. According to the best information we have, the people of this town enjoyed the first regular Methodist preaching in this State. At this time there was no circuit in New Hamp- shire, Maine, or Vermont. But, although the first to hear it, they probably were not the first to form a class and join the church, as they do not seem thus to have moved for three years ; and, as Cliesterfield is mentioned in the old minutes first, it is probable that town was the first to act in this regard. Till 1796, we have no evidence that even a class had been formed in Marlborough which seems strange when we remember the early customs, and especially the success of the first itinerants of the Methodist Church. The reason for this may be accounted for by the strength and influence of the other denominations who held regular meetings in the town, and naturally drew many away from a meeting lield irregularly, or at most monthly, and many times on week-days. During this year (1796), Phillip Wager preached a power- ful sermon from Luke xiii., 7: "Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig-tree, and find none : cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?" After which, he extended an invitation to all to join the class, and seven enrolled their names as follows: — Mehitable Metcalf. Coley Smith. Mehitable Metcalf, 2d. Natlianiel Metcalf. Lucy Emerson. William Comstock. Josiali Xewell. This class was presided over by J. Coburn, of Hindge. To this time, then, we may refer for the foundation of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Marlborough. Although the METHODLST CHURCH. 129 cliurcli proper was not formed as a separate organization till some time subsequent, yet this was the starting-point, and may be said to be the true beginning. In 1801, the church was more fully organized ; and Alfred Metcalf was appointed leader, which position he continued to hold nntil about 1802, when he was licensed to preach. We find on his class papers the names of fourteen members. NFow the church seemed to be well established. Ministers appointed for this station were holy men, filled with the spirit of reformation. In 1802, a powerful revival progressed for a long time, and the church increased in influence and numbers. About this date, Mr. Ebenezer Herrick was appointed leader, and the meetings were removed from Mr. Emerson's to his house. In 1807, Mr. Herrick was succeeded by Nathaniel Metcalf. In 1808, Mr. Metcalf was licensed as a local preacher, and Mr. Ebenezer Wallingford was appointed leader. On his class papers are found the names of twenty- seven members. There was some trouble in the church from 1812 or 1813 nntil about 1820, and during this period the circuit preachers did not regularly supply this station ; yet there appears to have been preachiiig a part of the time, either by the regular circuit riders, or local preachers, nnder the sanction of the presiding elder. In 1820, their meetings were held at the house of Thomas White. In 1826, they were again held at Daniel Emerson's ; and Abner Russell was appointed leader, in which office he continued faithfully, doing what he could for his Master, till death called him to the rewards of the righteous in 1855. Nothing worthy of note seems to have occurred from this time till 1842, when a meeting-house was erected in Potters- ville. Previous to the building of this, quarterly meet- ings were often held in barns, and not unfrequently in the ''Cooper barn," which formerly stood on the old road leading to Pottersville, but is now a part of the blanket-mill of Whitney & Clark. The meeting-house was built in Pottersville for the reason that it was the most central place, many of the members 130 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. residing in Dublin, Roxbury, and Nelson. Preaching was continued here without interruption until 1859, when Thomas L. Fowler was appointed to the (3harge. During the summer, he commenced preaching one-half of the time in the meeting-house then owned by the Baptists, and situated in our village, which had long stood unused, owing to the fact that they, being few in numbers, were unable to support preaching. Mr. Fowler afterwards pur- chased this meeting-house of the Baptist society, and made it over to the Board of Trustees of the iNIethodist Epis- copal Church. The preaching was then Avholly removed to this town, and the meeting-house in Pottersville was sold. In the summer of 1867, a move was made to build a par- sonage. A lot was purchased on Frost Street, the .work commenced, and so far completed as to be occupied by Rev. D. S. Dexter Avho was appointed to the charge of the church in the spring of 1868. We have found it impossible to give a complete list of all the Methodist ministers who have been stationed over this church. In the early days of Methodism, it was not unfrequently the case that the presiding elder transferred preachers from one field to another after three or six months, where it was thought thev might be more useful. Several of the ministers who were appointed to this circuit in its early days became in after years distinguished and eminent men. Among these were the eccentric Lorenzo Dow, Bishop Hedding, and Martin Renter, afterward Presi- dent of a Southern University, and also a Bishop in the Southern Branch of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Lorenzo Dow preached here in November, 1796. This was ascertained from liis diary. Under date of Nov. 21, 1796, he says: "I preached in Rindge, thence to Marl- borough, where our meetings were not in vain." Mr. Dow was born October 16, 1777, and was only nineteen years of age when he preached in this town. He is described as being tall and of ver}^ slender form. His countenance was serious and solemn, but not dejected; and the words delivered by him cut like a sword. Abel Stevens, LL.D., in METHODIST CHURCH. 181 his History of the Methodist Episcopal Church, saj-s of him, ''He was a right-hearted, but wrong-headed man, labored like a Hercules, did some good, and had an energy of char- acter which, with sounder faculties, would have rendered him as eminent as he was noted." The following list comprises all who have been stationed over this church since 1842: — 1842. John Smitli. 1861. Hu-am A. Mattersc 1843. Samuel S. Dudley. 1862. " 1844. (( ' a ii 1863. Samuel S. Dudley. 1845. Lorenzo Draper. 1864. Anson C. Coult. 1846. Ezra Wardwell. 1865. (( (( <( 1847. 0. Watkins. 1866. Irad Taggart. 1848. Rufus Tilton & J. C. Allen. 1867. a a 1849. J. C. Allen. 1868. D. S. Dexter. 1850. Ira Carter. 1869. « a a 1851. (( n 1870. a a a 1852. J. G. Johnson. 1871. L. Draper. 1853. a (( (< 1872. A. K. Howard. 1854. G. W. Bryant. 1873. (( a u 1855. a a a 1874. J. H. Hillmau. 1856. John Clough. 1875. (( (( a 1857. u 1876. Noble Fisk. 1858. Thomas L. Fowler. 1877. a a 1859. ()riiiigh. Alvin Abbott, Nov. '55 to Apiil '56, '• Edwin Davis, May '57 to May '58, " Earl Gilford, Dec. '58 to Dec. '59, i '• Hinsdale. AVarren A. Bassett, Jan. '60 to Aug. •60, .MarllM.K.ugh. , Died Aug. 4, 'a\ Judson Fisher, Oct. '00 to April •61, " Truman Jackson, IMay '61 to Jan. '62, Keene and Marlborough, ICnlisted, and died inAndersonviJle prison. H. P. Osgood, Oct. '64 to 3Iay '70, " L. L. Record, A.B., May '70 to Dec. '71, " Died Dec. 7. Earnest L. Senft, May '72 to May '73, " .Made improve- R. T. Sawyer, B.D., Nov. '73 to May '74, " ments in church building. H.Wells Hand, B.D. ,Oct. '74 to jNIay '77, '• Organized a ch'h .March 28, 187.^>. " E. B. Burgess, June ^77 to present time. On the 28th of March, 1875, a church composed of twenty- nine members was formed by the pastor, H. W. Hand, assisted by T. J. Sawyer, D.I)., of Tufts College Divinity School. This church has at tlie present time over fifty members. The .society having hibored under great inconvenience for want of a parsonage, in 1878, after mat are deliberation, decided to build one. A lot was accordingly purchased of Samuel Allison just above the church, and neat and commodious building^s were immediately erected, which are now occupied by the pastor. The expense was defrayed by subscription among the society, and generous and liberal donations from friends and former citizens of Marlborough. CHAPTER VIII. SCHOOLS. TiiK Common Schools of Xkw Exglaxd. — Lk.vse of the School Land. — Childkfx taught at Home. — Fijjst Schools. — Four School Distkicts. — Moxey raised for Schools. — School- Houses built. — Eight Districts. — School-Teachers. — School- Money. — Superintending Committee. The common schools of New England are closely inter- woven with her history and prosperity. As early as 1649, they were made a part of the legal establishment of the Massachnsetts colo'ny, having already been introduced into several of the towns. The code of that year was prefaced by a preandjle which declared that it was one of the chief objects of "the f)ld delnder, Sathan," to keep men from the knowledge of the Scriptures.- It was therefore enacted that each township should maintain schools for reading and writing, and that a town of a hundred householders "•should maintain a grammar-school with a teacher qualified to fit youths for the uni^■ersity." This seliool-law was soon after adopted in Connecticut, and by the Plymouth and New Haven colonies. The first constitution adopted in Massachusetts, in . 1780, charged the legislature to cherish the interests of literature and the sciences, and especially the public and grammar- schools in the towns. The schools — and the same was the case in New Hampshire and Connecticut, and also with the county schools in Maryland — were continued on their old colonial footing. At that time, these four Avere the only SCHOOLS. 143 StiitcH tliat could boast of aiiythiiio' like; a svstein of public; instruction; and it was a long period before their example was imitated by other States. * It will be remembered that in the j^rant of this township one share of land was reserved for the; beneiit of the schools. Jan. 1, 1707, the proprietors leased this land for a period of one hundred years to Benjamin Tucker and his tAvo brothers. Josliua and Moses, for the sum of ,£83 6.s*. 8d. The following is a copy of the original lease iiow on lile in the office of the town clerk: — This Tudenture made this First day of Jauuarv Anno Domini one Thousand seven hundred and sixty seven and in the seventh year of liis Majesties Reign. — Between Daniel Harrington, Yeoman Jesse" llice, & Silas Gates, (lent" all of Marlborougli in tlie County of Middlesex and Province of the .Massachusetts bay in New England, Isaac McAllister & Daniel (ioode- now both of Monadniek X" Five in the Province of New Hampshire Yeoman — on the one Part And Benjamin Tucker Gent. Joshua Tuckei- ^ Moses Tucker Yeomen all of ]\fonadnick aforesaid on the Other Part. Whereas the Proprietoi'.s of tlie Township of s'^ Monadniek No. Five at a ^Meeting of the s'' Proprietors Legally Assembled" on March the sixth day A D. 1705 Chose and Appointed the aforesaid Darnel Harrington, Jesse, Silas, Isaac, & Daniel Goodenough a Committee to Lease and Kent out the south half of Lot No. six lying in s'^ ^Monadniek N" Five for a Term of Years. Now this Lidenture Witnesseth that the said Danii'i Harrington, Jesse, Silas, Isaac, & Daniel Goodenow In Pursuance of the Power and Authority Given them as aforesaid and In Consideration of the smn of Thirty three Pounds six shillings and eight pence lawful money the province of the Massachusetts bay aforesaid to them in hand Paid by the said Benjamin. Joslina, & Moses Tucker at & before the Ensealing and Delivery of these Presents; Paid for the use & Benefit of the said Proprietors agreeable to the Charter and Proprietors book of Records of the said Township, the Receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged and themselves therewith fully satisfied and Contented and have and do liereby, so Far forth as they are Enabled and Impowered by the said Proprietors Demise, Gi-ant, Let & to Farm, let unto the said Benjamin Tucker, Joshua Tucker, & Moses Tucker and to thenr and to Each of tliem and to Each and to Either of their Heirs, Executors, Administrators aiul Assigns All the South half of Lot N" Six aforesaid. Together with all the Commodities Priviledges and Appurtenances whatsoever to tlie Said D-Muised Messuage belonging or otherwise Apper- tainiiiir ,k 144 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROUGH. To liave and To Hold the Said Messuage with all the Priviledges Commodities & Appurtenances thereunto belonging to them the s'^ Benj'', Joshua, & Closes and to their Heirs and Assigns &c For the Space of One Hundred years next comeing from and after the date hereof fully to be Com])leted and Ended: And the said J5enj", Joshua, & Moses for themselves tlieir Heirs Executors it Administrators and Assigns Do Covenant and Agree to Pay as a Yearly Rent one peny every year and to surrender and Deliver up the Premises to the said Committee or their successors in said Trust or to those that tlie same shall of Right belong- as if this Lease had never been given and that they or their Heirs &c will liave Xo Claim Challenge or Demand to the s'^ Premises after the expiration of one hundred Years as aforesaid any more than if they had never been in the Possession thereof and that tlie s'* Benj ', Joshua, & Moses their Heirs i< Assigns &c. will Pay aJl Rates Taxes and Duties that shall and may be Levied and Raised on said Pi'emises : They and Every of them well and ti-uly perform all things on their Part as afore- said shall and may Peiiceably Enjoy all the above mentioned Premises without any Let ])enial or Molestation from us or the aforesaid Pro- ])rietors or any other person or persons under us or them during tlie long Term of one hundred Years as afoi'esaid. Tn Witness whereof the Parties to these Presents have iiitercliangel)ly set their hands and seals the day and Year tii-st above Written. Signed Sealed and Delivered JJLNJ'^ 'ITCKER. (Seal) (Seal) in the Presence of us JOSHl'A TTCKEb'. ALPHEUS WOODS. MOSES TICKER. ,seal) JACOH FEI/roX. DANIEL HARUIX(; TON. (Seal) WILLIAM ADAMS. JESSE RICE. (Seal) SH.AS GATES. ^seal) DAXTEL GOODEXOW. (Seal) TS.\AC McALLESTER. (Seal) At the ex|)ir;iti()ii ol' this tc'rm. it was again leased, but this time for only fifty years. During the first five years after the settleiucnt of tlie township, the proprietors made no effort to estahlish a school; yet the children were not wholly iie<>lected. The parents themselves, being people of intelligence, attended personally to their education. Their school-books were few. The spelling-book, Bible, and catechism, with the well- thnmbed volumes of the New England Primer and The Pilf/ruuff Progress, were perhaps in most instances their only books. Yet what fountains of knowledge were derived SCHOOLS. 145 from these sources I Many a man whose education was begun in this primitive manner, has gone forth to the legis- lative halls of our country, and there acted well his part. One of the early settlers who took a deep interest in the education of the youth was James Brewer. Possessing a good education irmisclf, lie w^as anxious that the children should not grow up in ignorance ; and, long before schools were established, he would gather the children about him and teach them arithmetic and the art of penmanship. There is no record of public schools previous to 1770. This 3^ear the proprietors voted that William Barker, Isaac McAllister, and Richard Robberts be a committee to expend the interest of the school-lot in schooling the children. During the following winter, several schools were kept in various parts of the town, one of which was in the house of Phinehas Farrar, under the direction of William Barker, as committee. Who the teacher was, is not certainly known, but it is supposed to have been James Brewer. Another school was kept in Silas Fife's neighborhood, but in whose house, or by whom taught, we have no information. No school-houses were built in town until long after this period, so of course the schools — which were of but few weeks in duration — were kej^t in private rooms, and even these few weeks' schooling could be afforded only once in two or three years. A vote was passed, April 10, 1777, to divide the town into four equal squadrons for schooling. Jedediah Tayntor, Silas Fife, David Wheeler, and Theodore Mann, were chosen a committee for this purpose. On the 23d of June, this committee submitted the following report, which was accepted : — Beginning at the Centre Line at the East Side of the town thence running through the town ; then Beginning on said Line Between the Sixth and Seventli Lots; thence Running on said Line to Fitzwilliam for the North End Beginning at the South East Corner of Lot N°. Sixty nine, thence Running Westerly to the North East Corner of Lot N° 53 ; thence turning South to the South East Corner of Lot 53, thence Run- ning West to the town Line. l-ifi UlSTOliY OF MARLBOllOUGIl. In 1778, the town raised £100 for scliooliiig. This sum was dealt out sparingly, for we see by the re})ort of the treasurer in 1780 that only £25 had at that time been expended. It may at iirst appear strange that no more attention was paid to the subject of education, l)ut it must be remembered that the war of the Revolution was the subject which principally engrossed the public mind. From 1782 to 1787, small sums were raised at different times for schooling, and probably expended nnder the direction of the selectmen. In 1788, a vote was passed "to sqnadron ont the town anew for schooling " ; and Oliver Wright, Renben Ward, Phinehas Farrar, Ebenezer Temple, and Moses Tucker, were chosen to make the division. We have no doubt that this committee attended to the duties assigned them, but their report cannot now be found. On the 15th of December of the same year, the toAvn voted that "Each Squadron should build thereon School- houses as near the Centre as possibly could be convenient." "Voted that the Selectmen shall appoint the Place to build in case of Disagreement in any Squadron nn Town." " Voted that the Selectmen shall make the Rate for each Squadron." "Voted that every School House shall be built by tlie hrst of December next." J>ut it would seem that some of the squadrons neglected their duty in this respect ; for in a warrant for a town-meet- ing, four 3^ears afterwards, an article was inserted " to see what method the Town will Take witli those sijuadrons thai have not provided their school-houses sufficient to keep school in." In relation to this article, the town voted "that the school squadron which Daniel Cutting and others belong to, have until the first Day of may next to finish their School House, and if not Done by that time, the Selectmen are to build their school house and assess them to pay for the same." In 1789, an effort was m.uic by a few individuals to estal)- lish a Grammar School ; but, when the town was asked for SCHOOLS. 147 inouey to aid tlie cause, it met witli uii uiiiii\ui'al)le reception, and nothing further was done in relation to the matter. During the next five years, the popuhition increased so rapidly by the arrival of new settlers that it was found necessary to redistrict the town, as those on the outskirts t ould receive but little benefit from the present arrangement. At a meeting April 21, 1794, the following were chosen a committee for that purpose : Lieut. Oliver Wright, Lieut. Reuben Ward, Deacon Stone, Gideon Newton, Robert Worsle}', Hugh Mason, Theophilus Howard, Moses Tucker, and David Wheeler. This committee divided the town into eight districts, three of which fell within the limits of the present town of Troy; namely, the south, south-east, and south-west districts. The North-east District was by far the largest in town. Besides the present District No. 1, it contained all of that part of the town which was set off in 1812, as a portion of the new town of Roxbury. The following is a list of those who composed that district in 1794: — Bartholomew Grimes. David Wilkinson. Sylvanus Nye. Ziba Nason. William Banks. Josiah Lewis. Benjamin Mayo. Ebenezer Belknap. William Collins. Timothy Kimball. Amos Cummings. Nathaniel Fm'ber. Charles Hohnan. Joseph Foster. Oliver Parmenter. Gideon Newton. Jacob Phelps. Daniel Cmnmings. John Day. Timothy Johnson. Putnam Phelps. Paul Fifield. James Gleason. Asa Brewer. Enoch Foster. John Whittaker. Stephen Foster. John Tozer. '^ Jesse Hunting. Samuel Hemenway. Israel Kichanlson. Joshua Leai'nard. Widow Kebecca Lewis. Isaac McAlister. Ebenezer Hemenway. Samuel McAlister. Daniel Emerson. David Dufor. Ebenezer Herrick. Asa Metcalf. Jona. Flood Southwick. Israel Greenlief. 148 HISTORY OF MARF.r.OROUGH. The first school-honse in this district was situated a little north of tlie Walter Ciipron place, on the east side t»l' the road. In 1812, when Roxbury was incorporated, no division was made in the district ; but all continued to go to the same school until about 1815, when the school-house was destroyed by fire. It was then thought best to divide the district ; the Roxbury j)art building a house near the Guild place ; and the Marlborough portion, one of brick on the site of the present school-house. About 1845, this became unfit for use, and the present one was built soon after. North-west District. — This district comprised all of the present No. 2 and No. 8. In 1794, it contained the follow- ing list of voters : — John Buss. Benjamin Thatcher. Phinehas Farrar, Jr. Stephen Woodward. Phiuehas Farrar, Esq. Abijah Tucker. John Farrar. Abel Woodward. Jonathan Frost. Abijah Woodward. Ebenezer Rhodes. William Lincoln. Ebenezer Rhodes, Jr. Caleb Emerson. Thomas Page. Samuel Collins. John Page. Timothy Harvey. Libbeius Page. John Harvey, Jr. Kimbear Harvey. John Wiswall. Robert Converse. John Converse. Daniel Gage. Samuel Stearns. Jedediah Tayntor. Moses Tucker. When the first school-house was built, it is impossible to state, as we find no records earlier than 1797. The house was situated on lot No. 39, a little west of David Wilkinson's shop, which land was leased to the town for that purpose by Abijah Tucker, under date of 1789. As the school-house was standing on that spot at this date, it is probable that it had been but recently built. This house was a rude structure compared with those of to-day. It was about twenty or twenty-two feet square, rough boarded, but never clapboarded. The walls of the interior Avere finished sc 1 1 ()oi„s. 141) with pine boards. On the Avest side was a liv('-})lac(' large enough to admit wood four feet in length. On tlie otlier three sides were the seats and benches for the scliohirs. The seats were very simple in their construction, being hemlock slabs which run the whole length of the room. These were placed the flat side up, and were siqjportcd l)y round sticks for legs. In rude structures like this, our ancestors obtained the rudiments of an education, little dreaming of the comforts and privileges to be enjoyed by their descendants in these latter days. Perhaps it will prove interesting to our readers, if we here present them with a copy of the proceedings of the school- meeting of 1797, which is the first we have any record of in this district : — At a meetmg of the North Westerly School Squadron April 5"' 1797. Proceeded as follows, First Made Choise of John Buss Moderator 2'' Made Choise of Jonathan Frost Clark 3'i Chose Jonathan Frost "1 Simeon Newton > Conimity Kimber Harvey J 4* Voted to take one Quarter of the Money for a AA'onian school the Present Year. 5"> Voted that the Woman School Begin the Middle of May Next. Voted that Nabby Converse be Imployed to keep the woman school if she can be had. 7"' Voted that the Present Conimity be a Commity to Kecon with the former Clark. Sth Voted that no Child be Permited to Bring any work to school of any kind. 9"' Voted that those People that Send Children to school Sliall Pro- cure wood to supply the School. 10"' \'oted that the commity be Impowered to Imploy a Mistress and hire her Boarded, II"' Voted that this Meeting be Dissolved. Attest JONATHAN FROST \ Clark JOHN BUSS, Moderator The price of board was for many years determined by vendue, the teacher being l)oarded b}^ the one who woidd do 150 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. it lilt,' cheapest; tlie price soiuetiuies going- as low as sixty cents per week. When tins was the case, the teacher was soiuetinies reminded, as she sat at tlie table, that the sum received was hardly sufficient to pay ffU' her board, and for this reason she must partake sparingly. The wood was sometimes obtained in the same wa}^ although for a time the custom prevailed that " every man should bring two feet of wood for each scholar that he sent to school," and '' that every man should chop his own wood, that he brings to the school-house." In 1807, the old house having become unlit for use, the district voted to build a new one. The work of building was set up at auction, and struck off to Daniel Gage for the sum of one hundred and seventy dollars, and the old school- house. It was voted that the building should be con- structed as follows: — It is to be twenty-six feet long and twenty-four feet wide nine feet & a half Posts. Six windows twenty-four lights in each 6 by 8 inch Glass, two vows of Gallery seats on three sides of the house with one small seat in the front with an alley in the centre of the seats. And it is to be arched or crowning over head 9 inches. It is to have four feet Entry way ; the floor to be laid with two inch plank. The walls of the house to be ceiled as high as the bottom of the windows ; with a good brick Chimney laid in lime & is to be two feet & a half on the back of the tire place. And to be plastered over head and the walls down as low as the bottom of the windows. The entry way is to be ceiled and plastered over head ; the closet on the opposite side of the chimney is to be Ceiled and plastered over head with shelves convenient. The out side of the house to be inclosed with a stpiare roof and well shingled & the body of the house is to be clapboarded & painted with Spanish Brown & trimed with white lead paint. And to be underpined with split stone & a good door stone also window shutters to each window, with a lock and key on the fi'ont door. There is to be a writing desk & the hearth is to be laid with stone. This house was located on the site of the old one, and when completed was quite comfortable and convenient in its arrangement, as compared with others of that day. Having prepared a suitable place for the instruction of their children, the parents were not unmindful of the spiritual interests of those under their charge ; for at a meeting of tlie district, SCHOOLS. 151 October 31, 1807, they voted "that the School Master teach the Scholhirs the Catechism oiicte a week," also "Voted to have the Bible introduced into the School." In 182o, the district chose Asa Frost, VVilliaiii Ward, and John Wiswall to visit the schools, at such limes as they might think proper, to superintend the prudential affairs of the district, and to advise in the settlement of any difficulties which miglit arise in the school. From this time until 1839, a committee was chosen annually for this purpose. As the population of the district increased, the school- room became so crowded that in 1833 it became necessary to divide the winter school ; and for the next seven years, or until the building of the ucav school-house in 1840, the primary department was kept in private houses. .Vs the village continued to grow, the pupils increased to such a number that the school-house was found wholly inadequate to the wants of the district, and in 1840 it voted to build a new house, which was located on land of Simeon Whitcomb, near the Brick Church. This was built at an expense of about seven hundred dollars, and was large and ample in its accommodations. The old house was sold to Charles C. Hemenway who removed it to Lowellville and converted it into a dwelling, and is the main part of the house now owned and occupied by William Richardson. In 1850, the district was divided by setting off all that part east of the bridge, near where Warren W. Richardson now resides. In the sunnner of 1864, the district received from Rev. William C. Whitcomb a generous present of a bell for their school-house, which from that time to the j^resent has con- tinued to do good service, not only in calling the children from their sports to the halls of learning, but also to ring in the anniversary of our Nation's Declaration of Independence. In 1872, the number of pu[)ils had so increased that it was found impossible to acconunodate them in the over- crowded school-rooms. At the same time, some of the dis- tricts on the outskirts of the town had become so depopu- 152 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. lated that it was with difficult}^ they could support a school. By many, it was thought advisable to unite these districts, and form a graded school. The subject was warmly dis- cussed at the annual town-meeting, the result of which was a vote to unite with District No. 2, and build a school-house suitable for the convenience of the schools, and for the accommodation of a town high school, the expense of which was to be equally divided between the town and the district. This would probably have been carried into effect, had they been able to agree on the location for a house ; but failing in this, at an adjourned meeting, the town reconsidered their vote, and refused to do anything further in the matter. The district held several meetings, at Avhich the subject of building a school-house was discussed, but, being very much divided in opinions on the subject, the matter was for a time allowed to rest. At a special meeting called for that pur. pose, JNIarch 31, 1874, the district voted to build, and chose committees for procuring plans and locating the house. After holding several meetings, it was decided to build on land of Elislia O. Woodward. The lot containing three- fourths of an acre was purchased for '"11,500. The house is large, commodious, and furnished with many of the modern improvements. It is 70x36, two stories in height, and sur- mounted with a cupola and vane. On the first floor are two rooms, one 35x26 feet, the other 35x30 feet, containing forty-eight seats each. These rooms are separated by a hall running the entire width of the building. On the second floor there is one room 35x32 feet, containing fifty-six seats, and one 35x26 feet, which is at present used as an ante-room. It is finished throughout with chestnut, and cost, including grounds, $8,000. The bell was removed from the old house, and placed upon the new one ; and the old building with grounds was disposed of at auction for $795, and is now the property of the Congregational society, and used by them for a chapel. CENTRE DISTRICT. Tliis district comprised all of No. 3, or Depot District, SCHOOLS. lo^l No. 4, and a part of No. 6. The following citizens were voters there in 1794 : — Richard Roberts. Jonadab Bakei". Joseph Sweetsev. Walter Caproii. Richard Tozer. \/ Josiah Woodward. Silas Raymond. Elijah Frost. Phillip Sweetser. Joseph Wellington. Hezekiah Hodgkins. Joseph AVellington, Jr. Peletiah Ciimmings. Francis Barker. Isaac Cnmmings. Thaddeus Parmenter. Oliver Wright. Benjamin Frost>. Amos Hodgkins. John Haveii. Rev. Halloway Fish. Ebenezer Temple. Jacob Woodward. Joseph Follett. Daniel Woodward. Lnther Newton. Jonathan Bemis. Asa Pratt. The school4ionse was sitnated at the corner of the roads, a little sonth-west of the old meeting-honse. In 1808, it was removed to the east side of the Common, near the Pound. This was burned in January, 1827; and for the next two winters the school was kept in the house which was formerly owned by Isaac Cnmmings being kept by him for a tavern. During this period, efforts were made to fix upon a location for a schooldiouse. The district was large, and it was a difficult matter to decide upon a spot which would convene all alike, and at last it was decided to build as near the centre of the district as possible, and was accordingly located at the fork of the roads, near where J. Merrill Davis now resides. In 1840, the district w^as divided : two ncAv districts were made, and a small portion was annexed to No. 6. Diatrict No. 3, or Depot District., was set off from the old Centre District in 1840, in which year the present school- house was built. District No. 4 was made from the south part of the Centre District in 1840. The school-house is situated near the residence of George Lovering. The number of pupils in this, like other farming districts, is rapidly decreasing : and 154 HISTORY OF :marlborough:. where once was a well filled school-iooin, only six or eight children can now be found. District JVo. 6. — This district tor a long time bore the name of the " Six Nations/' It derived its name from the fact that within its limits there resided six men, with families so large that they were suggestive of the ancient Israelites. In these six families, there were no less than .sixty-four children. In 1794, the district was composed ot the following citizens : — William Teuney. Benjamin Hazen. Theopilus Howard. Alexander Fish. Kendall Bruce. Melezur Grant. Bezaleel Baker. AVilliam Grant. Jonathan Capron. Ebenezer Jennings. David Capron. Asa Porter. Daniel Whitney. Benjamin Whitney. Widow Flood. Benjamin Goodenow. Benjamin Dole. The first school-house was located on tlie opposite side of the road from the present one. This was given up in 1827, and the present house was built. This has been kept in good repair, and is the best school-house in toAvn outside of the village. The East School Squadron^ or District No. 6. — This dis- trict in 1794 was composed of eleven families, as follows : — Henry Hunt. Seth Harriugton. Thaddeus Hastings. Francis Hastings. Luke Newton. Calvin Stone. Timothj' Bemis. Shubel Stone. Jeremiah Bemis. David Bemis. Eliphalet Stone. The first school-house .stood in the pasture north of the house of Samuel Jones. This, like others of that day, Avas but a rude affair, and at the commencement of the present century liad become unfit for use. Consequently, in the year 1800, the school was kept at the house of Timothy Bemis, the same now owiu'd by S;niiuel Jones. ^Ir. Hcmis r('(-civo(1 four sinllings per Nvcck for I lie use ol" bis |ions(\ scuKior.s. 155 This price beiiii;- cnnsiclurcd too dear, the J'oUuwing year the schools were kept at tlie house of Luke Newton who charged but thirty-three cents per week. The second scliool-house was built in 1801, and was situated on the nortli side of the present highwa}^ on the line between the fiinn of Sanmel .loues and the one since owned by Curtis Hunt. This house was 20x24 feet, 10 feet posts, and surmounted with a sqiuire roof. This was very comfortable in its ai-rangement, and was erected at a cost of about one hundred and sixty dollars. The old school-house was sold to Calvin Stone for i8.75. In 1840, the farms which are now owned by A. T. Woodward, R. S. Frost, Benjamin Cushing, and the Moses Hunt place, were annexed to this district. The old school-house being somewhat out of repair, it was decided to build a new one, which is the same now in use ; and, uidess this district becomes more thickly populated, it will last as long as they will need a school-house, for, where once could be counted sixty children, there are scarcely enough now to make a school. District No. 7. — This district was known for many years as the " Robert Worsley District." It was never very large or populous. In 1794, it contained but eight families, and only ten voters, as follows : — Samuel Sargent. William White. David Thiirston. James White. Benjamin Thurston. Daniel Ball. David Thurston, Jr. William White, Jr. William Greenwood. Robert Worsley. The present school-house was built in 1828. Previous to this, the schools were kept in private dwellings. District No. 8, or LoirelJviUr Dlstrief. This was set off from District No. 2 in 1850, and at that time it contained twenty families. The school-house Avas built in 1850, at a cost of '1390.87. School-teaching is one of the noblest callings. The true teacher is a benefactor to the race. He makes impressions loB lUSTORY OF MAlilJiOllOLTGH. and sets in motion influences which are lasting as the mind. With what emotions of pleasure and gratitude do we eall to mind the teachers ot" our youth! Many of lliein have passed aAvay, but tJieir memory is precious. Of those who have borne their part toward 1)uildiug uj> the common schools in this town ma}^ l^e mentioned Benja- min Whitne}^ Sen., Levi Gates, Sen., and Nathan E. Wild. Mr. Gates had a thorough knowledge of arithmetic, but knew nothing of grammar; while his ,^ esteemed friend and neighbor, Mr. Whitney, though good in grai;imar, knew but little of arithmetic. Mr. Whitney used to wonder how- Mr. Gates could get along so well in teaching without a better knowledge of grammar ; while Mr. Gates expressed equal surprise at the success of JNlr. Whitney who was so lacking in the science of arithmetic. Col. Cyrus Frost, now more than eighty years of age, began teaching in the winter of 1818-19, and followed it, with greater or less intervals, for more than twenty years. He taught at least twenty-four terms, and was known far and near as a good manager of schools. Twice he was called to finish out schools where others had failed. He says: "I did the best I could. The first school I ever taught was the stillest. I did not flog but little, — some two or three times in the first school I taught, and occasionally since, but a great many without striking a blow. I had one scholar once, that no teacher before me could get along with without flogging. An old teacher (Capt. Whitney) asked me, 'How is it you get along with that boy, for I have heard that you have not flogged him this winter?' I told him that I came to the conclusion that he had been flogged too much, and I thought I would try a different plan, and so I appealed to his manhood." He taught two terms in Newton, Mass., after he was forty years of age. At that time, the Rev. George H. Hepworth, now of New York City, then a lad of ten years, was one of his pupils. He also taught in this town after he was fifty years old. Capt. Asa Frost, a brother of Cyrus, taught several terms in this and neighboring towns, and is said to have been an excellent teacher. Luther Wiswall who is now ;i (Jt)iigi'eg;iti()iial luiuistcr in .Maine, Bonjaiuiu Whitiic'v, Jr., and Levi Gates, Jr., taii<;-lit many terms, and were quite promincMit in our common schools. Jonas Whitne3% a brother ot" Ijenjandii, Jr., was a tearher of considerable note. He was a graduate ot Dart- mouth College, and taught the higher branches. For a number of j^ears he followed teaching in New York State, and later in St. Louis, where he died some years since. Jairus Collins, Esq., commenced teaching in 1835, and has taught nearly thirty terms. Rev. Sullivan H. McCollester, A.]\L, is one of our most prominent and successful teachers. He has for several vears been President of Buchtel ColleR-e, Akron, Ohio. Henry Clay, son of Calvin Tenney, has been a prominent teacher of both district and high schools in tliis and other towns. Rev. Charles E. Houghton, although not a native, was for several j'cars a resident in town, and taught many terms, not only of district but high schools, with good success. He is now a Congregational minister ^n Auburn, N.H. Joseph C. Mason and Joseph C. Shattuck were both successful teachers, and are at present engaged in the cause of education at the West, the former as Superintendent of Public Schools in Missouri, and the latter as State Super- intendent of Public Instruction in Colorado. Among the female teachers who have been successfid in their calling, we may mention Nabby Converse, who taught many terms before the commencement of the present century. She is said to have been self-educated, and possessed a great faculty for teaching small children. She died in 1803. Atossa Frost, daughter of Col. Joseph Frost, and ]\liss Cynthia Farrar, daughter of Phinehas Farrar, Jr., were noted teachers. They both went as teachers and mis- sionaries to Bombay. The former married Rev. Cyrus Stone. Hannah Jones, daughter of Samuel Jones, Sen., was a graduate of Mount Holyoke Female Seminary. She followed teaching for many years, not only in tliis town, but in Ohio. She afterward married Rev. Mt)ses G. Grosvenor, and died at Troy, Ohio, February, 1875. Ellen Herrick, daughter of Jeremiah Herrick, taught with good success 158 HISTORY OF MARLBOROFGH. ill various parts of tlic West. Ellen and I'Jiza, danghters of Aaron Stone, are hotli siiceessful teachers. Kllcn L. Rieli- ardson, now Mrs. Ilarringtoii, has taught linu'e than seventy inoiitlis, and always witli good success. Were it possible, we would like to give the names of all our native and long resident teachers ; but so nnnierons are they that we find ourselves unequal to the task, and have therefore onl}- mentioned some who liave become eminent in their calling. The whole amount of money expended l)y tlie town for sehooling in the year 1878 was 'it'1,566.85. This is divided among the several districts as follows, — one-third equally one-third by valuation, and one-third by the number of children attending school the fall and winter previous, calling District No. 2 two districts. The Literary Fund is divided equally, calling No. 2 three districts. The town has received two small legacies for schools. The first was in 1828, by Abijah Tucker, the interest of which is $5.01 yearly. The other -was in 1863, by Lydia W. Wyman. The interest "which is expended annually is $33.04. Superintending school committee were first chosen by the town in 1809: that year nine were elected, one from each district. As this committee was composed of some of the most enterprising men, it is to be inferred that they attended to the duties assigned them, although we find no report of their doings. Ftom the report of the school committee of 1820, we gather the statistics of the Avinter schools : — Teachers. No. of Scholars. Term. lluhama Wliituey, 18 13 weeks. Levi Gates, Jr., 52 8^ '• Liithei- Wiswall, 27 10 George Lane, 37 8 Solomon Tarbell 64 12 Augustus Noyes, 81 14 " Whole Xo. of scholars, 279 65^ " Tills committee reported that they believed the instructors SCHUOJ.S. 1,V.) had been faithful and unwearied in the perforinaiice of their duty, and that the pupils were orderly, their progress good and encouraging. As a uniformity of text-books throughout the various schools in town was desirable, the committee recommended Murray's English Grammar, the History of the United States, the Americjan Preceptor, Cumming's Spelling Book, and the Scriptures. The following is a list of the Superintending School Committee, from 1809 to the present time, with the exception of the years 1812, 1832, 1837, 1838 and 1839. If any were chosen these years, no record was made upon the town books, and we have failed to learn their names : — SUPERINTENDING SCHOOL COMMITTEE. 1809. Beujaniiu Whitney. Col. Joseph Frost. Abraham Coolidge. Capt. Jonathan Frost. Amos Cmnmings. Jolui Farkhnrst, Jr. Lieut. Jonathan Frost. Robert Worsley. Shubael Stone. 1810. Kev. Halloway Fish. Levi Gates. Benjamin Whitney. 1811. Kev. Halloway Fish. Levi Gates. Caleb Perry. 1812. 2s one recorded. 1818. Rev. Halloway Fisli. Dr. Ephraim K. Frost. Asa Frost. ISU. Rev. Ilallowav Fisli. Dr. Ephraim K. Frust. Asa Frost. 181.5. Rev. Halloway Fish. Xathan Wild."^ Caleb Perry. 1810. Re\-. Halloway Fish. James Farrar. Levi Gates, Jr. 1817. Rev. Halloway Fish. Di-. Epln-aim K. Frost. Benjamin Whitney. Asa Frost. Amos Cummings, Jr. Xatlum Wild. 1818. Rev. Halloway Fish. Amos Cummings, Jr. Asa Frost. Levi (iates, Jr. Xatlian Wild. Di'. E[)hraim K. Frost. 1819. Kev. Hallowav Fish. IHO ' iii.sTouv OF :MAi;i.i;(>i;<)rGii. Nathan Wild. Asa Hoi I nan. Capt. IW'njaniiu WliiUiL-y. Amos Cuniniings, fir. Levi Gates, Jr. James Farrar. is-jo. lluv. llalloway Fish. Asa Holnian. I)i-. James Batcheller, 18-21. Uev. Halloway Fish. Dr. James Batcheller. Levi Gates, Jr. Asa Frost. lS-2-2. Kev. Halloway Fish. Geo. H. Lane. Thomas Tolman. 1823. Rev. Halloway Fish. CjTn-s Frost. Levi Gates, Ji". 1821. Levi Gates, Jr. Anxos Cmmnings, Jr. Asa Frost. 1825. Asa Frost. Ijt'vi Gates, Jr. Kev. Salmon Bennet. 182G. lu'V. Salmon Bonnet. Levi Gates, Jr. Lnther Wiswall. Benjamin Whitney, Jr. LS27. Kev. Sahnon Bennet. Benjamin Whitney, Jr. Levi (lates. Jr. LiilluT Wiswull. 1828. Rev. Salmon Bennet. Dr. James Batcheller. Benjamin Whitney, Jr. 1820. Uev. Salmon Bennet. Dr. James Batcheller. Benjamin Whitney, Jr. 1830. Luther Wiswall. Minot T. Lane. Sumner Frost. 1831. Luther Wiswall. Benjamin Whitney, Jr. Minot T. Lane. 1832. None recorded. 1833. Dr. James Batcheller. Luther Wiswall. Rev. Clark Sibley. 1831. Dr. James Batcheller. Stillman Buss. Willard Adams. 1835. Rev. Moses G. Grosvener. Dr. James Batcheller. Stillman Buss. 1836. Rev. INIoses G. Grosvener. Benjamin Whitney, Jr. Stillman Buss. 1837. None recorded. 1838. None recorded. 183'). None recorded. SCHOOLS. i(;i 1840. Jairus Collins. Thuiley CoUester. 1811. Rev. David I'. Freucii. Giles Lyman. Jairus Collins. 1842. Rev. Giles Lyuian. Jairus Collins. Stillmau Buss. 1843. Rev. Giles Lyman. " Henry M. Danlurth. Jairus Collins. 1844. Rev. Giles Lyman. '• Henry M. Daufortli. Dr. James Batcheller. Jairus Collins. 184.5. Rev. Giles Lyirian. 184G. Rev. Giles Lyman. " Calvin Baker. Rev. Edwin Davis. 1847. Rev. Giles Lyman. Charles F. Holman.. Jairus CoUin-s. 1848. Rev. Giles Lyman. " Sherl)urn Dearborn. Jairus Collins. 1849. Rev. Giles Lyman. " Sherburn Dearborn. Jairus Collins. 18.50. Rev. Giles Lyman. 23 Jairus Collins. Norman Clark. 1851. Rev. Giles Lyman. Jairus Collins. Cyrus Riper, Jr. 1852. Rev. Giles Lyman. Cyrus Piper, Jr. Rev. Judson Fisher. 1853. Rev. Giles Lyman. " Judson Fisher. Jairus Collins. 1854. Rev. Giles Lyman. " Judson Fis'her. Jairus Collins. 18.55. Rev. Giles Lyman. Jairus Collins. 1856. Rev. Giles Lynian. Jairus Collins. Dr. Samuel A. Richardson. 18.57. Rev. Giles Lyman. Jairus Collins. Dr. Samuel A. Richardson. 1858. Henry C. Teimey. 1859. Rev. Solomon Laws. Henry C. Tenney. Dr. Samuel A. Richardson. 18G0. Rev. Solomon Laws. Hem7 C. Tenney. Dr. Samuel A. Richardson. 162 HISTORY OF IMAULHOKOUGII. 1861. Rev. Giles Lymau. Jairus Collins. Dr. Samuel A. llicliavdsoii. 186-J. Jairus Collins. Dr. Samuel A. Richardson. Charles E. Houghton. 1863. Jairus Collins. Charles E. Houghton. Charles K. Mason. 1864. Dr. Samuel J. Martin. 1805. Jairus Collins. Charles E. Houghton. 1866. Jairus Collins. Rev. Hiram P. Osgood. 1867. Rev. Hiram P. Osgood. 1868. Rev. Hiram P. (Osgood. 1S6!). Dr. Samuel A. Richardson. Elisha O. Woodward. ISTO. Charles K. Houglitou. Elisha O. Woodward. Jainis Collins. 1871. Elisha O. Woodward. Jairus Collins. Rev. Deming S. Dexter. 1872. Jairus Collins. Rev. Deming S. Dexter. " John L. Merrill. 1873. Rev. Deming S. Dexter. " John L. ISIerrill. Charles E. Hougliton. 1874. Charles E. Houghton. Rev. R. T. Sawyer.* " Jolni n. Hillman. J. Ki]l)arn Soutliwick.* 1875. Rev. H. W. Hand. " John H. HiUinan. Charles Sinith. 1876. Charles Smith. Rev. H. W. Hand. 1877. Charles Smith. 1878. Charles K. Mason. Charles Mason. Mrs. Carrie C. l'airl>anks. 1879. Charles Mason. ]\Irs. Carrie C. Fairbanks. Cluirles K. Mason. » Resigned. CHAPTER IX. THE R E B E L L I O N. ^^ai{lb0houo^ the flr.^t town in the county to respond to the Call for Volunteers. — Three Men in the First Regiment. — LiEUT.-CoL. Converse. — Fourteen Men in the Second Kegi- siENT. — Sixth Eegiment. — The Fourteenth Regiment. — The Draft. — Amount of Bounties paid. — Natives of Marlborough who enlisted froji Other Towns. It would be worse than useless for us, in a volume like this, to attempt to write a chapter on the cause of the Great Rebellion which deluged our country with the blood of many of our bravest and noblest men. Like the shock of an earthquake, it burst upon our land. The opening scenes are still fresh in our minds : the election of Abraham Lincoln to the presidency in 1860, the occupa- tion of Fort Sumter by Maj. Anderson, and the final attack upon it. If Marlborough did not do as much toward the suppres- sion of the Rebellion as some other towns, it was not for want of fidelity to the Union, but because her territory was smaller, her population less, and her resources not so ample. When the stars and stripes were ruthlessly assailed on the ramparts of Fort Sumter by traitors, and Abraham Lincoln issued a call for seventy-five thousand volunteers, jSIarlborough acted promptly and patriotically, being the first town in Cheshire County to respond to that call. Her young men left their farms and work-shops, and went to the field. They fought as bravely, suffered as much in battle, in camp, and hospital, as those from other towns. The 164 HISTORY OF MA II I. BOROUGH. people of Marlborough shared fully in the excitement which spread over the entire North at the news of the i^nrrender of Fort Sumter. As soon as a recruiting-office was opened at Keene, three young men enlisted into the First New Hampshire Regiment, which was raised for three months. They were honorably discharged with their regiment on the 9th of August following. They were Thomas L. White, James Totten, and John Totten. The first-named is said to have been the first man to enlist from Ches''hire County. Soon after this regiment went to the field, a company was organized at Keene for the Second New Hampshire Regi- ment, and several of our citizens enlisted, among whom was Levi N. Converse. Young Converse first enlisted as a private in Company A. He was soon promoted to Orderly Sergeant, in which capacity, in the abJ^ence of his superior officers, he commanded the company through all the battles of the McClellan Peninsular (■anipaign, and afterwards became Lieut.-Col. He lost liis right arm at Gettysburg; and, at the battle of Chapin's Farm, a minie ball passed through the roof of his mouth, injuring and disfiguring his face. Still he remained with liis regiment until mustered out in Concord, at the close of his term of service. The following from Marlborough were also in the Second Regiment : — Daniel B. Woodward, Discharged June 20, 1864. William H. Tenney, Discharged for disability, Oct. 8, 186-2. James Newell, Discharged a\ ith his regiment. Mirrick H. Ross, Womided at VVilliamsbm-g, Va., May 5, 1862. Discharged Dec. 5, 1862. Amaziah Sawtelle, Wounded July 2, 1863, and again June 24, 186-1. John Totten, Ivilled at Gettysburg, Pa., July 2, 1863. Grave No 15, Sec. A. N.H. Lot, Gettysburg Cemetery. Asa IVI. White, Discharged July 30, 1862, in conse- (juence of wound received in the battle of Williamsbm-g. TIIK IIKHELLION. 10/ Uliodolplms I. White, Lucius F. Hunt, Amos L. Corey, Mark True Greenwood, Cyrus E. Hardy, Augustus C. White, ]\Iiltou G. Razey, Died at Camp Ueaulort, Md., Dec. 20, 1861. Discharged for disability. Reeu- listed in Co. F., 2d Regiment Sliarpshooters. Wounded. Dischai'ged for disabil- ity Feb. 2, 1803. Discharged Sept. 25, 1861. Mustered out Dec. 21, 1865. Mustered out May 22, 1865. Deserted at Warsaw, Va., Sept. 30, 1865. This regiment participated in more tlian twenty battles, and lost in action nearly one thousand men. The ]iiost sanguinary battles in which it was engaged were the first and second Bull Run, Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, (7ett3^sburg, Cold Harbor, and the battles in front of Petersburg. In these engagements alone, the loss in killed, wounded, and missing, was more than eight hundred. The Sixth Regiment was raised in the autumn of 1861 ; and Nelson Converse was commissioned its Colonel, October 26, which position he held until the 8th of March, 1862, when he resigned in consequence of ill-health. In this regi- ment were seventeen men from Marlborouah : — Calvin Stone, Falls H. Castone, Edward F. Adams, William A. Russell, Thomas L. AVhite, George V. R. Farnum, Arcidus Vicar, Charles L. Clark, Oscar W. Farnum, Charles A. Field, John H. Priest, Henry A. Atherton, George H. Smith, Discharged for disability. Mustered out with regiment. Promoted to captain Apr. 20, 1864. Discharged for disability. Promoted to corporal. Transferred to Y.-R. corps May 1, 186i. Discharged Dec. 26, 1864. Reenlisted Dec. 22, 1863. Reenlisted Jan. 4, 1864. Transferred to V.R. corps July 1, 1863. Discharged for disability. Mustered out Nov. 27, 1864. Discharged for physical disability June 20, 1865. Transferred to Invalid Corps Sei.)t. 30, 1863. 166 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROUGH. Charles W. Pike, Killed in 2fl Bull Run iiiittle Aug. 29, 1862. Francis M. Farrar, Discharged for disability at Wash- ington, D.C., Oct. 20, 1802. Everett F. Gates, Died at Xicholasville, Ky., Aug. 30, 1863. Georo-e Tilden. Dischai-ged lor disability at Rof^ anoke Island, N.C., Feb. 28, 1862. The Foiu'teentb, Avhicli was the last of the tliree years' reo-iments raised in the State, was mustered into service in the anturan of 1862. Cheshire County furnished four com- panies, and Marlborough was represented by eighteen of her citizens: — James Totten, Christopher Totten, William Collins, Enoch Foster, George H. Stone, George H. Stockwell, Alphonso A. Adams, Perley E. Collins, Delevan C. Richardson, Nathaniel P. Rnst, Theodore Pope, Sumner L. McCollester, William H. Pierce. huke Knowlton, Ji'.. Charles A. Mason, jvhviii 15. INIatthcws, Ebenezer T. Greenwood. Charles Knowlton, Mustered out with regiment. Promoted to sergeant Jan. 17, 186-4. Corporal. Discharged for disability, at Concord, May 30, 1805. First lieutenant. Wounded Sept. 19, and died Sept. 2o, 1864. Died at Troy, while at home on a furlough, July 20, 1865. Discharged at Concord, Oct. 13, 1864. Mustered out July 8, 1865. Wounded Oct. 19, 1864, mustered out July 8, 1805. Killed at Winchester, Ya., Sept. 19, 1804. Discharged f or_ disability at Wash- ing-ton, D.C.,"Oct. 18, 1864. Wounded Sept. 19, 1864, but served to the close of the war. Wounded Sept. 19, 1804. Promoted to corporal Xov. 1, 1804. Died at Washington, D.C., Sept. 7, 1803. Mustered out July 8, 1865. Promoted to corporal Jan. 24, 1S(;3. Wounded Sept. 19, 1804. Died at Poolsville, Md., Jan. 20, 1803. THE liEBKLLlON. 167 Melviii H. Collins enlisted in November, 1861, in Company F, Second Regiment, United States Sharpshooters, and was discharged for disability, Jnne 2, 1862. Asa C. Dort enlisted April 29, 1864, and served as Quartermaster Sergeant, in Company D, First New Hampshire Cavalry, and was mus- tered out July 15, 1865. In September, 1863, tliere was a general draft throughout the State ; and this town was no exception. Fourteen were thus selected and held for service, only one of whom entered the army; namely, Horace O. Lewis who became a member of Company D, Fifth Regiment. He died at Armory Square Hospital, Washington, D.C, in consequence of wounds received at the battle of Cold Harbor, June 3, 1861. The remaining thirteen paid three hundred dollars each as commutation. Their names were as follows : — Cntus S. Moors. Albert W. Stockwell. Thomas H. AVhite. Joel S. Knight, diaries H. Thurston. James Brown. Charles E. Houghton. John Carr. Luther G. Bemis. Lucius F. Hunt. Fay Forbush. Hemy D. Richardson. Henry II. Ward. ' The whole number of men furnished Ijy the towii, includ- ing foreign substitutes, was ninety-eight; and the amount of bounties paid was ten thousand four hundred and twenty- one dollars. Several of our young men M'ere absent from town at the time the first call was issued for soldiers, and enlisted into the service from the places of their abode. We are unable at this time to give the names of all who thus entered the army, but among them were William M. Clapp, Lucius H. Shattuck, Ora W. Harvey, Levi D. Jones, Alfred M. White, and George H. Woodward. CHAPTER X. MILLS AND MANUFACTOEIES. First Saav-mills. — Titcker Mill,. — Texxky Mill. — Grimes Mill. — Hunting Mill. — Wiswall Mill, — Collins Mill. — 0.sbokne Mill. — Masox Mill. — Grist-mills. — Fulling-mills. — Pails. — Clotiies-pixs axd other Woodex Ware. — Kxob Screavs. — Blaxket Mills. — Breed Poxd Compaxy. — Machinists. — Black- smiths. — Taxxeiues. — Shoemakers. — Saddlers axd Harness- makers. — Brown Earthen Ware. — Brick. — Granite Quarry. Foe. many years after the settlement of the township, the excellent water power afforded b}'^ the numerous streams running through the town was considered of little value, beyond what was used for the sawing of lumber and the grinding of grain. In Chapter II., allnsion was made to the first saw-mill 1)uilt Ijy Daniel Harrington, and the first two grist-mills built by Joseph Collins and Abijah Tucker. Both of these had a saw-mill connected with them, thus rendering it comparatively easy for the settlers to obtain lumber for building purposes. The one built by Joseph Collins was sold by him, in 1771, to his brother-in-laAV James Lewis, after which we hear no more of this mill, and it probably remained in existence only a few years. Mr. Tucker continued to carry on his mill until the infirmities of age compelled him to give up labor ; after which, he let the mill for several years to different parties. His mill-dam was the first obstruction placed across the river ; and at that time it was no unusual sight, in the spring of the year, to see shad Ijclow the dam, which had run up from the Connecticut River. MILLS ANiJ iMANl'FACTUIUES. 100 About 182G, this mill eaiiie into tlie possession of Cliarles Holmaii who for many years carried oii.au extensive lumber business. In 1837, Mr. Hohiian erected the stone-mill which he continued to occupy until old age rendered him unfit for labor, and the mill then came into the possession oi' his sons-in-law, Messrs. Thurston & Wilkinson. They built an addition to the mill and put in machinery lor the manu- facture of uaih^d and dovetailed boxes and trunk-cleats. There was also a saw-mill built at an early date by Benjamin Tucker and his sons a little below the outlet of Meeting-house Pond on the site of the Whitney and Tarbell mill, so called. A native poet of that day, whose rhyming gives evidence of considerable inventive genius, notices this mill in the following verse : — Tucker's boys built a mill, Half the time it did stand still, When it went it made a noise. Because it was built by Tucker's boys. The present mill was erected by William. C Mason and Nathaniel Tottenham in 1840, who intended to saw out chair stock ; Ijut, failing in their design, the mill was left in an unfinished state till 1845, when it was purchased by Amos A. ]\Iason and Charles R. Bemis who finished the mill and commenced the manufacture of cane-seat chair-frames. In 1846, Mr. Bemis sold his interest in the business to Mr. Mason who carried it on for several years. After this Mr. Bemis in company with Austin G. Parmenter carried on the same business for twenty years in the mill now owned by Osgood R. Wiswall. Mr. Mason Avas succeeded by different parties, each of whom remained but a short time ; and about the year 1856 it came into the possession of Charles D. Tarbell and Jared T. Whitney who for several years carried on an extensive lumber business in connection with the manufacture of chair-seat frames. In 1866, Mr. Tarbell sold his interest in the mill to Mr. Whitney who continued the business some two or three years, and then sold to Mortimer M. Stowe, The mill is now in the possession of Amos A. Mason, and occupied by Miles Cudworth as a stave-milL 170 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. William Tenney, Sen., biitlt ii saw-mill, probably about 1780, on the Baker Brook, about half-way between the bridge and the saw-mill since owned by Allies Cudworth. The latter mill was built l)y Rufus Brooks some twenty years since. In 18(57, he sold it to Francis L. ^lason who used it as a saw-mill and also for the manufacture of clothes-pins. After the death of Mv. Mason, Miles Cud- worth purchased the mill, and used it for the purpose of getting out pail-staves, until it was burned, Dec. 3, 1877. There Avas a saw-mill on the Roaring Brook in Roxbury, which is supposed to have been built by Bart. Grimes. We have no account of the l)uilding of this mill ; but it must have been previous to 1800. This was afterwards owned by Es([. Holman. A saw-mill was erected l)y Jesse Hunting, at the outlet of Cumming's Pond a])out 1800. It is said, when Mr. Hunting was building this mill, that old Mr. Tayntor (fatlier of Jedediah), passing near the spot on his w ay through the woods, remarked to Mr. Hunting, "• This is an excellent place to build a mill, but where is your water?" This meaning will be readily understood by all who are acc^uainted with the surroundings. About 1805, John Wiswall, Sen., built a saw-mill on the river near what is now called the " Day Bridge. " This, however, was washed away in a few years, and never rebuilt. About this time, a mill was erected on the Marlborough Brook, upon the site of the old Harrington mill. This was owned by Jonathan Wliipple wlio probably sold it to Joseph Wellington. When the latter left town, it came into the possession of Capt. John Lane who continued to own and occupy it until the great freshet of 1826, when it was carried away. Samuel Collins Iniilt a uiiil (probably a saw and grist- mill) at an early date ou the site of the lower mill of the Marlljorough Manufacturing Company. In 1803, this was own(?d by Daniel Fisk wlio (-(uiverted a part of it into a fulling-mill. lu 1.S07. it was jiurchased by Ebenezer Hill wlio (lid cousidci'ablc luisincss at drcssiuu- clotli. He .M1I,[.S ANI> iNrANPFACTOIMKS. 171 remained here eight yours, and then sold t<> Jolm 15. Fairar who continued tlie business for several years, and theii sold to Gilman and Nelson Converse who used it as a lumber- mill. They also engaged in the manufacture of powder- kegs, 111 1834, the building was destroyed by fire; and some time after, the privilege passed into the hands of Asa Greenwood who erected the main building now standing, and engaged in the lumber l)usiiiess. Of the mills erected in the south part of the town, now within the limits of Troy, we can say but little beyond the fact that there was a grist-mill built by Phinehas Farrar in 1TS4, a few rods above the Forestall mills. This was after- wards owned by Daniel Gould. ' Alexander Parkman also built a fulling-mill in that part of the town about 1778. Jacob Osborne is believed to have been the first to erect a saw-mill on the privilege now occupied by Levi A. Fuller. As this was a part of the tavern property, it was bought and sold in rapid succession for many years. Mr. Fuller, the present owner, purchased it of his father in November, 1863. In the sjn'ing of 1872, this mill was destroyed by fire. Mr. Fuller immediately erected a neat and substantial building, and is at present engaged in the manufacture of bail-boxes, pail-staves, and coarse lumber. Some years since a mill was erected on the stream, a few rods below the above-mentioned Fuller mill, by Isaac Fuller, and was used for the manufacture of various kinds of wooden-ware. Osgood J. Bemis succeeded Mr. Fuller, and for several years manufactured pail-handles to some extent. In the fall of 1871, he lost the mill b}' fire, and built the present structure w^hich is now occupied by Levi A. Fuller in connection with his other mill. In 1837, James Hobert built a saw and stave mill on the Baker Brook, which was the one since owned by Aaron Mason, llobeit carried on the business for a short time, but, not making it profital)lc, it passed into the hands of Mr. Mason who retained possession of it until the destruction of the dam by the freshet of 1869. The dam was never rebuilt, and the property soon passed into other hands. A part of 172 HISTORY OF MAI'vLBOUOUGH. the mill was taken down, and the remainder converted into a barn. Some time previous to 1800, Samuel Collins built a grist- mill at what is now called " Marll)orough Glen/' This was in use by Mr. Collins and his sons until 1830; at whicli time, being somewhat out of rei)air, it was deserted, and the same 3^ear Joseph Collins built the mill now owned b}- Osgood R. Wiswall, which he used as a grist-mill for a few years, and then, selling to George Harvey, removed further down the river, and about the year 1840 commenced to erect the one since owned by the late Barton Blodgett. Before it was completed, Mr. Collins died ; 'and the mill soon after came into the possession of Stillman Buss, under whose skilful management it soon won the name of being the best liouring- mill in Cheshire County, and was extensively patronized, not only by the people of the adjoining towns, but by those from a distance of more than twenty miles around; and so famous did this mill become, that Mr. Buss was obliged during a part of the time to run it night and day. In 1861, Jedediah T. Collins purchased an interest in the mill whicli was carried on under the firm-name of Buss & Collins. After the death of Mr. Buss, Barton Blodgett bought one- half of the mill, and continued in company with INIr. Collins for several years, when he purchased of Mr. Collins his share and continued to run it until his deatli. It is now owned by John M. Farnum of Keene. Eliphalet Stone erected a fulling-ndll at the outlet of the Stone Pond on the site of the present saw-mill at an early date. This was probably the first mill for dressing cloth within the limits of this town. Mr. Stone divided liis time between the farm and mill for many years, until, meeting with some reverses, he divided his property between liis sons, Calvin and Shubael ; and Calvin, taking the mill, resumed the business of dressing cloth. He removed the old fulling-mill to the opposite side of the road, and con- verted it into a dwelling-house for his father; built a saw-mill in place of it, and also a new fulling-mill a few rods below. Calvin Stone, Jr., with his brother Solon, MILLS AND .>LVXri''ACT()i;iKS. ^'J'■\ succeeded their father in the business, and duiiiig their ocfiipancy the fulling-niill was buriiod, and the present buikling erected. Several different kinds of wooden-ware have been manufactured here by different parties, such as (dothes-pins, pail-handles, staves, etc.; but at present little business is done. Josiah Fisk built the mill now owned by James Town- send in 1813. This was used by him for a fulling-mill. He was succeeded by Calvin Page who carried on the business successfully for several 3'ears. He also had a machine for carding wool into rolls for the accommodation of those who could spin. In 1837, James Townsend purchased the mill and commenced the manufacture of woollen yarn, which business he has prosecuted with success to the present time. He also makes hose, knit jackets, sheep's-gray cloth, etc., and his goods are some of the best found in market. PAILS. Pails wei'e first made in this town l)y Robert Carpenter Avho commenced tlie business in the mill now owned by Osgood R. Wiswall. The pail-lathe used bj Mr. Carpenter was Ijut a rude affair, compared with those in use at present. It would now be considered a slow and tedious job to match the staves by hand, and drive the hoops with a hand-driver; but, thanks to the inventive genius of the Yankee, these obstacles have been overcome, and the facilities for manu- facturing pails greatly increased. Mr. Carpenter remained here but a short time, and then, in company with Charles Cooledge, commenced pail-making where N. Winch's pail- shop now stands, a building having been erected for that purpose by Calvin Page who then owned the privilege. Jedediah T. Collins and others continued the pail-business at the Collins mill till 1836, when it came into the possession of George Harvey who carried on the business for seven years. During this time, he built the house since owned by Luther Smith. In 1843, he traded the house and mill to his brother James, taking in exchange the farm on 174 HISTORY OF IsrARLROROUGH. which he now resides. The business was coiitiiiiied l)y James Harvey sonic two years: l)ul not Ix'ini;- snccessfnl, and becoming somewhat inNolvcd in debt, tlie property passed into other hands. ("ar})enter & Cooledge carried on the business at the Page mill nntil 1882, \y]\on the iirm was dissolved; Mr. Carpenter going to Orange, Mass., where he again entered into the pail-business on a more extensive* scale. Mr. Cooledge returned to Troy, and set up the same business, which lie carried on for several years. Joseph Cummings now hired the Page mill, and manufactured pails until April, 1834, when it was burned. The shop now owned by jN^athan Winch was erected by Charles Gilbert and Cyrus Frost wlio manufactured chairs there for several years. In 1887, Frost sold his share of the mill to George Holman. About this time, they commenced the manu- facture of pails. Silas Collester and Simeon Whitcomb soon after purchased an interest in the business, and jNlr. Gilbert retired. Mr. Holman soon sold to his partners wdio continued the business until 1852, when they sold to Nathan Winch who is still the proprietor. In 1837, Asa Bemis built a saw-mill on the south branch, in connection with which the following year he commenced to make j)ails. He con- tinued in this business until the infirmities of age rendered him unfit for labor, when he sold his business to Amasa Fuller, Jr. who is the present owner. Pails were quite extensively manufactured at the brick mill now owned b}' the Marlborough ^Manufacturing Compan3\ This was l)uilt in 1835, by G. & N. Converse for a pail factory. It soon passed into the hands of Asa Greenwood. He in a short time sold to Robert Carpenter Avho in a few years was suc- ceeded by Kelson Howe; and the business wa& successfully conducted by him until 1859, when it was purchased by George Thatcher, who continued tlie manufacture of })ails till 1866, when he sold to Goodhue Tenney and Charles (). Whitney who in a short time, in connection with others, organized as the Marlborough Manufacturing Company. William Tenne}^ commenced the pail and tub business in this town in 1853 at the lower mill of the Marlborough Man- MLLLtS ANIJ MANUFAOTOKIKS. 175 ufacturiug- rompauy. Tie previously liad had consi(leral)le experience in this branch of business, liaving prosecuted it with success in Swanzey, iu Winchendon, Westminster, and Ashbiirnham, Mass. In 18(34, having acquired a coni- petenc3% he retired from the business, and was succeeded by D. W. &: W. M. Tenney who enhxrged the factory, and by putting in more maeliinery increased their facilities for manufacturing 1)otli tubs and pails. They also did consid- erable at the lumber-business. At the time of tlie decline in wooden-ware in 1870, the Messrs. Tenney sold the mill to the Manufacturing Compau}' who converted it into a woollen mill. In 18(58, J. & L. Knowlton commenced pail- making in connection with their clothes-pin business; at Jirst, putting in only one lathe. Afterwards, giving up the manufacture of pins, they from time to time added more pail machinery, until they now have facilities for making from one hundred to one hundred and fifty thousand pails annually. In 1870, they erected a saw-mill on the opposite side of the river, which is used mainlv for o-ettino- out their stock. CLOTHES-PINS Were formerly extensively made in this towii. The prin- cipal nuinufacturers were G. H. & S. W. Stone wlio were succeeded by J. & L. Knowlton ; and Charles C. Hem- enway AAdio sold to W. W. & J. M. Richardson, Levi A. Fuller, and Francis L. Mason. The scarcity of good tind^er together with the low market value of clothes-pins, long- since rendered the business unprofitable, and none have been manufactured in town for several years, Asa Greenwood built the shop now owned by Luther llemenway in 1844. This was used for a few years as a clothes-pin and bobbin shop. Samuel Allison afterwards became the owner, and rented it to Leonard Snow who manufactured a variety of toys. He was succeeded in 1852 by Luther llemenway who has continued the toy-business to a greater or less extent up to the present tinu'. 176 HISTOllY OF MAllLROROUGH. Cliarlos C Hemeiiway in 1845 commenced to make bob- bins nnder the orist-mill of Stillman Buss. In 1848, taking his brother Luther as a partner, he made a change in his business, and commenced making clothes-pins, and sub- sequently the manufacture of wooden wash-boards. This business he carried on successfully for some eighteen years. In 1852, he dissolved partnership with his brother, and built a small shop adjoining that of Austin G. Parmenter. Here he did a thriving busiuoss in various kinds of wooden- ware, such as wash-boards, bo])bins, trowel-handles, knobs for wire screens, clothes-pins, etc. In 1859, he built the shop now o^vned l)y Richardson ' 13. " 13. " 13. Auo-. 8 198 HISTOTtY OF ^rAT;LT50T{0TTGH. Aug-. 10 •• l.l 1 oz. Fish at 7 ct.s ^ M " 14 " 1 peck Salt 38 cts., ^ 11). Tea 25 cts., 63 " 25 " 1 lb. Sugar 17 cts., 1 pt. N. Rum 8 cts 25 '• 27 " ^ yd. Canibvick 23 cts., Thread 2 cts., ..... .25 Sept. 2 " .1 pt. W.I. lUmi, 15 " 15 " 2^ yds. Toe cloth, 63 " 24 " ^ peck salt, 19 Oct. 22 '' ^ doz. Biscuit 12 " 24 " i pt. Brandy, 17 Nov. 17 " 1 Spelling Book 25 cts., 1 lb. Raisins 16 cts., . . .41 '• 17 " i lb. Tea 25 cts., ^ lb. Spice 13 cts., 38 Dec. 23 " i lb. Tea 25 cts., 1 Whip 13 cts , 38 20 " ^ lb. Tea 25 cts., 1 Almanac 10 cts., 35 " 20 '^ 1 Pail 40 Nathan E. Wild who afterwards occupied that phice fitted up the old blacksmith-shop which had been used by Walter Capron and others, and putting' in a small stock of goods traded here for several years Some fifty years ago, James Nason had a store at the north part of the town. This building was near the present residence of Josiah H. Knight. A few years since it was moved across the highway, and now forms a part of the house owned b}^ George F. Wise. The Protective Union Store, division No. 241, was formed in the spring of 1851 by Dr. James Batcheller, Stillman Buss, and others. Their goods were placed in a part of the grist-mill at Lowellville ; and Elisha O. Wood- ward, a young man from Swanze}^ was employed as clerk. In 1853, Mr. Buss erected the building now occupied by N. M. Chase ; and the Union Store was removed to that place. Mr. Woodward afterwards purcliased the stock in trade of the Union, and remained there about one year. In 1858, he bought out G. D. Richardson at the old Boyden store, and removed his goods to that place, where he has remained to the present time, with the exception of about three years spent in Grafton, Mass., during which time Frank H. Robertson traded in this store. Soon after the removal of Mr. Woodward from the TAVERNS AND STORES. 199 Lowellville store, it was opened by Daniel W. Tenney and William 'SI. Nason. At the expiration of one year, Mr. Nason purchased the entire stock, and continued in trade at that place until 1865, when he sold to Wyman Sawyer and George Tilden. He is now associated with E. O. Woodward. Mr. Tilden soon sold his share to J. T. Collins. Subse- quently Mr. Sawyer became the sole proprietor ; and, on the completion of the Town Hall Building, he in company with George G. Davis removed his goods to that place. Henry A. Spofford traded in the old Union Store building for several years. There are at present eight stores in the village. George G. Davis is located in the Town Hall Building, and is a dealer in dry goods, groceries, hardware, flour, grain, meal, paints, and oils. C. Hale, meat and provision market, is also located under the Town Hall. Woodward & Nason, dealers in dry goods, carpetings, boots and shoes, gentlemen's furnishing goods, small wares, room paper, etc. ; also Miss E. A. KnoAvlton, dealer in millinery and fancy goods, — in Woodward's Block. H. A. Powers, dealer in drugs, medi- cines, perfumery, toilet and fancy goods, confectionery, etc., and George K. Harrington, jewelry and variety store, in Odd Fellows Block. Charles Stay, dealer in boots, shoes, rub- bers, etc. B. F. Merriam, manufacturer of tin, sheet iron, copper w^are, dealer in furnaces, stoves, pumps, lead pipe, zinc, glass, and wooden ware. CHAPTER XII. PHYSICIANS. Dr. Justus Perry. — Dk. Kexdall Bruck. — Dr. David Carter. — Dr. E. K. Frost. — Dr. James Batciieli.er. — Dr. Samuel A. Richardson. — Dr. Samuel J. Martin. —Dr. (4eorge L. Harring- ton. The first physician to settle witliin the limits of Marl- borough was Dr. Justus Perry. Of the early life of Dr. Perry, but little is known beyond the fact that he was a native of Barre, Mass., and studied medicine with Dr. Stephen Batcheller, Senior, of Royalston. He settled in Marlborough in 1786 ; and, possessing rare natural and ac(j^uired ability, he soon gained the reputation of a skilful physician, and for a few years did an extensi^■c business. Unfortunately, however, he acquired the habit of using ar- dent spirits, which so increased as to dis(|ualify him for the practice of Ids profession. In 1796, he removed to the south part of the town, and located in what is now the village of Troy. That his usefulness might not be lost to his fello"\\'- men, an effort was made to reclaim him. He was induced to sign a temperance pledge, and obligated himself to ab- stain from the use of all intoxicating drinks for one year. This pledge he faithfully kept ; but, at the expiration of that time, he relapsed into his former dissipated habits, and, losing his practice, returned the following year to the centre of the town, where he died in 1800. Dr. Kendall Bruce was a native of Marlborough, Mass. He was in tliis town as a practising physician as early as I'lIVSICIANS?. 201 1798. He remained here but a few years, and then removed to Washington, this State, where he continued his profession for several years, then went to Peterborough, and thence to Cahiis, Vt., where he died Jan. 12, 1832. Dr. David Carter was the next physician. He was a pupil of the celebrated Dr. Carter of Lancaster, and came to Marlborough soon after the completion of his studies, in 1795. He was contemporary with the late Dr. Amos Twitchell of Keene, and always remained on intimate terms with him. It was in this town, and in company with Dr. Carter, that Dr. Twitchell first commenced the practice of medicine. In his profession, Dr. Carter reached no incon- siderable eminence : his practice extended much into adja- cent towns, and somewhat into places more remote. He removed to Peterborough in 1812, and thence to Dublin in 1820, where he died Jan. 9, 1828. Dr. Carter was succeeded b}^ Dr. Ephraim K. Frost who commenced practice here soon after the removal of the former from town in 1812. Dr. Frost was a native of Jaf- frey. His early education was obtained in a school of three months each year ; later, from a course in Dartmouth Col- lege. He studied medicine with Dr. Carter, paying his way by teaching school. He remained in practice here some six j^ears, and then removed to Swanzey. He afterwards em- igrated to Lincoln, Neb., where he died in 1871. Dr. James Batcheller Avas born in Royalston, Mass., June 5, 1791. He was the son of Dr. Stephen Batcheller, the first physician of that town, who established himself there in 1768, and continued in practice until his death in 1829, at the age of eighty-three. Dr. James Batcheller spent his youthful days in his native town ; attended schools and academies ; then taught school two years in Pennsylvania. On his retnrn, he studied his profession with an elder brother, Dr. Stephen Batcheller, Jr., and afterwards attended medical lectures at Dartmouth, and took his degree of M.D. In May, 1818, he came to Marlborongh by invitation from Rev. TLilloway Fish, and established himself as a practising pliysiciau. He was very social, and was generally liked by 28 202 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. the people as a man and pli3-sician ; was possessed of more than ordinary ability, and was frequently called out of town for consultation. So extensive was his practice, that it required the services of three horses to enable him to visit his numerous patients. As a physician, he ranked high, as is evident from the fact that he was honored for some time with the presidency of the New Hampshire Medical Societ3^ Dr. Batcheller was widely known as a politician. He was chosen Representative and Senator to the General Court of New Hampshire ; was also elected Councillor, and per- formed the duties of each with honor to himself and bene- fit to his constituents. He was also a delegate to the Con- vention to revise the Constitution of New Hampsliire in 1850-51. He was no timid advocate of the cause of eman- cipation of the slave, and this, too, when it required strong nerves to stem the large majorities against him. At a meeting in Concord, for the purpose of discussing the anti-slavery question. Dr. Batcheller and Gen. Frank- lin Pierce, afterwards President of the United States, were pitted against each other. So well did the Doctor argue his side of the question, that he convinced his opponent > and, as they came out of the meeting, Pierce slapped him on] the shoulder, and said, " Doctor, you are right, but tlie time has not yet come." He was also a zealous advocate of the cause of temper- ance, and was one of the first to jiroclaim the doctrine of total abstinence. After a residence of some thirty-seven years in Marlbor- ough, he removed to Fitzwilliam, to be near his sons who had previously establislied themselves in business there. He obe3^ed some calls for about a year, when, his health suddenly failing, he gave up practice altogether. Yr-om that time, he continued to l)ecome more and more feeble in body and mind, and at length helpless as an infant gave up; life without a struggle. Although he was not a college] graduate, he was well educated. He was quick in motion, rapid in speech, and of untiring energy. He read much,, thought much, and continued to gain as well .as impart] I'HYSKnANS. 203 knowledge. He was a man in the noblest sense. of llic term, a pleasant compannjn, line friend, good neighlKn-; and it may be trnl}'- said of him that the world was better for his liaviiig lived in it. The author is imlel)tetl to William S. Leonard, M.D., for the following sketch of ])r. Samuel A. Kiehai'dson : — Samnel A. Richardson was born in Dnblin, Dee. 23, 18')(), lie was the yonngest of four children, and the only son of Abijah and Mar}^ (Hay) Richardson. His parents were of the old Dnblin stock ; a little austere in manner, perhaps, as was the fashion of the time, but good types of those sturdy virtues, such as honesty, piety, industry, and thrift, which characterized a former generation in tliat mountain- town. His earl}?- life was spent on his father's farm, assisting in its duties and labor, as was usual with farmers' boys of that period. The common schools of Dublin at that time were equal, if not superior, to any in Cheshire County ; and the early education and training of the son were mostly gained in the somewhat famous School District, No. 2, which has produced many young men who have made their mark in the various walks of life. The Rev. Dr. Leonard, who was singularly unerring in his estimates of young men, early marked him as a boy of promise, and one who would some day be heard from in the battle of life. The good doctor was wont in his old age to enumerate the scores of Dublin young men who had fulfilled the promise of their youth and his own propli^cy of success, and " Dr. Sam " was always mentioned among the number. As 3'oung Richardson approached manhood, he supple- mented his common school education with such higher ad- vantages as could be obtained at the " Hancock Literary and Scientific Institute," an institution quite flourishing in those days, and the " Normal Institute " at Reed's Ferry. Beyond this, we are not aware that he enjoyed the benefit of any special school training before commencing the study of that profession to which he has devoted his life. He early con- ceived the idea of a medical education, and in the intervals of 204 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. farm work bent his niiiid and studies in this direction. He was obliged to rely almost entirely upon his own resources and earnings ; and we find him making the first decided move in this direction by attending a course of medical lectures at Philadelphia in 1852. The following spring (1853) he entered his name as a student in the office of Albert Smith, M.D., LL.D., of Peterborough, at that time among the most eminent professors and medical teachers in the State. He attended a course of medical lectures at the Woodstock (Vt.) Medical College in 1854, and still another course at the Albany (N.Y.) Medical College in 1855. In July, 1855, he located as a physician in Marlborough, taking the place of Dr. James Batcheller. He quickly gained the esteem and confidence of the people and a fair share of the business. Not content, however, with his medical acquirements, in the spring of 1856, Dr. Richardson secured another physician to fill Ms place temporarily, and attended still another course of lectures at Albany, N.Y., receiving from that college the degree of Doctor of Medicine. He also spent some time as resident physician at the Albany County Almshouse Hospital. The six following years were busy ones to him. Having returned to Marlborough, he entered upon the full tide of a very extensive and successful j)ractice. His skill and good judgment were early recognized, and he was soon called to practise more or less in all the adjoining towns. In addition to the arduous duties of his profession, he identified himself to a considerable extent with the manu- facturing interests of the town. In 1862, when the cloud of civil war darkened our horizon. Dr. Richardson offered his services to his country, and in September of that year was appointed Assistant Surgeon of the Thirteenth Regiment N.H.V., of which Aaron F. Stevens (afterwards General) was colonel, and George B. Twitchell, M.I)., of Keene, was surgeon. The following extract from the arm}^ report of Col. Stevens to the Governor of New Hampshire, after the battle of Freder- icksburg, dated Dec. 13, 1862, will serve to show how soon Surgeon Richardson's sterling qualities were appreciated by PFTYSrOTANS. 205 his superior officer. He says: " VVitli pariiiuilai- pridf and pleasure, I call your atteutiou to the services of Assistaut Surgeon Richardson, who in those dreadful days proved himself an honor to his profession, and an invaluable aid to the army in its hour of suffering.* While I look with shame and horror on the conduct of men, who calling themselves surgeons attached to other regiments, I am proud to say that, from personal observation, I know that for two days and nights after the battle, and at times when the shells of the enemy were falling around him, Dr. Richardson pursued his arduous duties in the Hospital and out of it with a fidelity and ability that has endeared him to me personally, and gained him an enviable distinction among his professional brethren in the army." In April, 1863, Dr. Richardson was promoted Surgeon of the Thirteenth Regiment N.H.V., vice Dr. Twitchell, resigned. June 23, 1863, he was detailed as operating surgeon to assist Col. Rivers, Fourth R.I.V. April 25, 1864, he was appointed Acting Medical Director of the Second Brigade, First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps. Dec. 6, 1864, he was assigned to duty with the Flying Hospital, Twenty-fourth Army Corps, as Chief Operating Surgeon, June 8, 1865, and was appointed surgeon in charge of the same. It is impossible to make any estimate of the extent or magnitude of Dr. Richardson's labors during this fearful period. That must ever be unwritten history; but from the lips of surviving soldiers, old comrades, and the sick and wounded who came under his care, there i-s but one expression, and that of gratitude and heartfelt thanks for his unselfish devotion to duty, his tender and skilful minis- trations to those in his charge, and, more than all, his never- varying good cheer and light heart in the darkest days, which infused new life and hope into the breasts of many a poor sufferer, and rekindled the spark of life almost extinguished. •Surgeon Twitchell was unavoidably detained at Wasbington, and did not arrive until the Tuesday after the battle. In the same report, Col. Stevens says, " I sincerely regret his absence at a time when his distinguished abilities would have rendered him so useful to the unfortunate suffering victims of the day's carnage." 206 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROTJGH. We cannot better close this brief epitome of Dr. Ricliard- son's military life than by quoting from a letter recently received from Gen. Aaron F. Stevens of Nashua. Under date of Sept. 9, 1878, Gen. Stevens says : " I desire to reaffirm now whatever you may find in my army reports favorable to Dr. Richardson, or in appreciation of his talents, industry, and professional accomplishments, his kindness of heart, and ever prompt discharge of his duties in camp, field, or hospital. He was a man of superior talent and extraor- dinary resources, admirably adapted to public professional service, as well by his force of character and power of organization, as from his professional knowledge and ac- complishments. Dr. Richardson was separated from my immediate command, early in his term of service, b}^ well deserved promotion, but not until I had learned to appre- ciate and love him, and to witness personally his strength and fitness in the line of duty. " We all deplore his misfortunes ; and I pray you, my dear sir, to see to it that in Marlborough's History ample justice is meted out to my friend and the friend of the soldier. " I remain sincerely yours, "A. F. STEVENS." Dr. Richardson, in speaking of his army life to an intimate friend, said simply, " It has cost me everything except life and honor." Dr, Richardson returned to his home in Marlborough at the close of the war, and devoted himself assiduously to his profession for several years ; but he brought Avith him that scourge of a Southern clime, fever and ague, which gradu- ally made inroads upon his health, and, as a sequel to the exposures, privations, and hardships of his army life, caused his professional labors, comparatively unfelt before, to be- come more and more a burden. In December, 1872, the death of his only child, " the apple of his e3'e," a beautiful girl, gave him a terrible blow, and threw him into a state of nervous depression from which it was feared he would not rally. When sucli strong liearts give way to grief and rHYSKUANR. 207 sorrow, there is not that reaction which comes to lighter natures. In the years that have passed since, there have been many long years of sickness and suffering ; but it is our hope and belief that time and rest will accomplish a cure, and that Dr. Richardson will regain in a good measure his old-time elasticity and phj^sical strength, as he retains unimpaired his mental vigor, his happy, genial manner, and personal magnetism. It remains to speak of Dr. Richardson as a physician, a point that perhaps should have come earlier in this notice. There is quite as much difference in doctors as in men of other callings. People are very quick to find out who the good ones are, while " the poor ye have always with you " in medical practice. Dr. Richardson inclined towards surgery before the war ; and his military life, with its splendid opportunities and practice, brought him, on his return, into the front ranks among New Hampshire sur- geons. He was ever firm, self-reliant, with nerves of steel, all subservient to excellent judgment and discretion. In the treatment of general diseases, he always has had distin- guished success, never a great medicine-giver, but relying much upon the vis medieatrix natural^ — the benign influence of nature in the eradication and cure of diseases. Many times it is the doctor's manner that helps the patient, quite as much as the drugs he carries in his medicine-case. Dr. Richardson always gained the confidence of his patients in the outset, then their esteem and regard. They believed in him thoroughly and completely, and got well oftentimes because he assured them they could not die. The late eminent Prof. Dixi Crosby used to say that a doctor's motto to his patients should be, " O King, live forever." There should be no such word as " fail " Avritten upon his countenance. Dr. Richardson was always jovial, always had a good story to tell, and some amusing anecdote to call the sick man's attention from his own ailments, to get him away from and out of himself, so to speak. There was something positively infectious in his hearty laugh and his words of good cheer. Said one, " I don't know why it is. 208 1IIST(1RY OF ArART.IiOROTTGH. but I alwa^'s feel better after Dr. Richardson has been here, even though he gives me not a drop of medicine." It is true that tliere is an untold amount of potency in "the hearty laugh that doeth good like a medicine." In those grave and desperate cases, where life and death are equally balanced in the scale, each struggling for the mastery, here, too. Dr. Richardson was equally at home, — watchful, vigi- lant, ready to meet any emergency, and combat dangerous symptoms at every turn with all the best chosen weapons of his art. Doctors cannot save ever3^body; and Doctor Holmes has truly said "that the best physicians lose the most patients," for the very reason that to them are in- trusted the most critical cases, and patients given over by others go to them as a last resort, in the vain hope of obtainiup- relief when there is none in this world. Thus briefly we have recorded our impressions of one of IMarlborough's physicians, giving glimpses of his early life, his home practice in the town, and his brilliant record in the service of the United States. It may be said that is written with the partiality of a life-long friendship ; but we claim that it only brings out into bolder relief and clearer expression the strong and salient points in a man's char- acter, if this delicate duty is intrusted to an intimate friend. The records of a physician's life must be at the very best imperfect and fragmentary, and the fame of the most noted is often endjodied in those brief but impressive words which have the stamp of the Bible upon them, "the beloved physician." The life of a country doctor, though oft-times hard and dreary, toiling on throiigh summer 4ieat and winter cold, with long cheerless rides upon rough roads, over high hills, and through stony valleys, has nevertheless its bright spots. It is something worth living for to have your name deeply graven upon the hearts of those whose suffering you have alleviated, whose lives you have helped to save ; and, more than all, to feel that at all times and in all places, whether at home or ujion the battle-field, yon have ever done your duty, — so lived, been so disinterested, so forgetful of self, so I'll VSK MANS. 200 humane, tender, generous, and noble, that " tlie nobleness that lives in other men, sleeping, but never dead, will rise in majest}' to meet thine own." Samuel J. Martin, son of Jefferson and Rhoda (Davis) Martin, was born in Weston, Windham County, Vermont, Sept. 9, 1830. When three years of age, his parents removed to Mount Holly, Rutland County, Vermont, wliere he received his early education, dividing his time between his studies and farm work. Previous to his seventeenth year, his help was much needed at home ; and he conse- quently had limited advantages for study. At this time, however, he entered Black River Academy at Ludlow, Vermont, and spent two terms each year, during two years ; and for the next four years studied at the same place, during one term of each year. His studies during this time were confined to the English branches ; but he afterwards spent two terms at Chester Academy, and there pursued the study of Latin, with other higher branches, earning money to defray his expenses by teaching penmanship and day school. After leaving school, he engaged in teaching, and continued it with the exception of one year — when he was in poor health — until his twenty -eighth year. He early developed a taste for the medical profession, but in his desire to enter it was opposed by his father who preferred that he should become a farmer. Accordingly, at the age of twenty-eight, he yielded to his father's wishes, and purchased a farm with money, a part of which he had earned by teaching. At the end of one year, becoming dissatisfied with farming, he began the study of medicine at home, under the direction of A. E. Horton, M.D., of Mount Holly. One year later, he sold his farm, and gave his entire attention to his studies; and after three years' study, and taking two full courses of lectures, graduated from the Eclectic Medical College of Philadelphia. He began his practice in February, 1863, at Marlborough, and remained there until April, 1866, doing a successful practice ; and at that time removed to Walpole, Xew Hampshire, and there, 2;» 210 lllSTOUV OF ISrAKLBOROUGH. in acklitiou to his practice, opened a drug-store with another gentleman who managed the Latter business, while he devoted himself chiefly to his profession. At the end of eighteen months, having lost everything, he closed out his interest in the drug-store, and gave himself unremittingly to his studies and practice. The force of circumstances induced him to investigate the subject of homoeopathy ; and, at the end of one year's observation and careful thought, he embraced the principles of that school. Not having recovered from his failure in the drug business, and desiring a larger field of action, he removed to the West in 1869. After spending four months looking for a place in which to settle, he established himself at Racine,Wisconsin, where he has since resided, building up an extensive practice, and making for himself a most worth}' rejivitation as a skilful practitioner. During his residence in Marlborough, he was elected superintendent of public schools. He has filled the office two terms as Vice-President, and one term as President, of the Homoeopathic Medical Society of the State of Wisconsin. He is also a member of the American Institute of Homoe- opathy and the Illinois Homoeopathic Medical Association. Dr Martin has given much attention to self -culture, iind by extensive reading and observation, has acquired that knowledge of men and things which, with his excellent conversational powers, renders him a most agreeable and social companion. This is bat a brief outline of the life and history of one who, though having many experiences in common with others, has yet given an example of continued effort and will-power that entitle him to an honorable mention in these pages. Dr. George L. Harrington, son of Leonard B. and Eunice G. Harrington, was born in Wincliendon, Mass., Nov. 11, 1814. In his childliood and youth, he was quiet and unassuming, 3'et always thoughtful, fond of his books, and anxious to gain knowledge. Having made the most pos- sible out of his public school and academic privileges, he became a medical slndcnt in tlic oflicc of Prof. Walter PHYSICIANS. 211 Ciirpeiitev, of Burlington, Vt. Here lie enjoyed peculiar advantages under tlie instruction of a wise and experienced teacher. In due time, he entered the medical department of the Vermont University, and graduated in course M.D. In the winter of 1872, he settled in Marlborough as a physician. Naturally enough, for the first two years he did not have a great run of practice. However, it became evident to those who early employed him that he Avas no quack, but one determined to establish himself in the confidence of the people by his works ; and so gradually he grew into public favor, all the while extending his pro- fessional career. Long since it became extensively known that, if he is not a man of many words, he is a man of second thought, keen discernment, and sound judgment. He never has been known to praise himself, or tell of wonderful cures and almost miraculous deeds wrought by his skill. Perhaps, he has been too reserved and reticent at times for his own good and highest success. In the long- run, no doubt, he will lose nothing from such a constitu- tional habit. The wise Socrates said he never had regretted keeping silence, but had often sorrowed for much speaking. From the fact he is an M.D., it is plain, he does not think he knows it all ; for he spends much time among his books, and finds it a necessity to acquaint himself with the latest journals and modern works of his profession. In the sick- room, he is affable, and naturally adapts himself at once to the- situation of things. He seems to possess a ready facult}' of reading disease, and a willingness, in case he fails of its diagnosis in any particular instance, to acknowledge his lack of comprehending it. Such frankness is a virtue, and most commendable, especially in a physician. So the sick under his charge can scarcely fail of trusting and confiding in him as a medical adviser. In not a few cases, he has proved himself a skilful and cultured physician. Already he has won a good field of practice, and certainly his future is more promising than the present or the past. He has proved himself a useful citizen and a Christian gentleman. With truth it may be said of him that he is a true friend to the sick and a well-wisher to all in health. CHAPTER XIII. SKETCHES OF PROMINENT INDIVIDTJALS. Charles Cummixgs. — Cyrus Stone. — Osgood Herrick. — Luther WiswALL. — Philander Wallingford. — William C. Wihtcomb. — Edwin Davis. — Sullivan H. McCollester. — Jairus B. Col- lins. — Jeremiah Stone. — Timothy L. Lane. — John Q. A. McCol- lester. — Daniel 13. Woodward. — Sumner A. Mason. — Luther Farrar. — Joseph C. Mason. — Andrew C. Stone. — John W. Converse. — Justus Perry. — Sumner Wheeler. — Cyrus Wake- field. — Warren H. Wilkinson. — Rufus S. Frost. — William II. Greenwood — Deacon Abel Baker. Rev. Charles Cummings, son of Rev. Joseph and Anna Cummings, AA'-as born in Seabrook, N.H., Sept. 23, 1777. At the age of two years, his parents removed to Marlbor- ough, where he passed his chiklhood. He was married in 1798, and settled in Sullivan. It was about this time, or a little later, that he felt impressed that it was his duty to preach the gospel, as he understood it. He struggled with his convictions for several years, feeling deeply his incompetency for the work, having but a limited education, such as was furnished by the common schools of those early days ; but, finding no rest for the body or peace for the mind, his strong con- victions of duty prevailed. In 1805, he was licensed to preach by the Baptist board of ministers, and received ordination in 1810 in Sullivan, where he formed a church, and labored for many years, all or a part of the time. He was also instrumental in organizing churches in Keenc, Swanzcy, ^larlborougli, Peterborough, Hillsborough, Lynde- borough, and Antrim, and preached more or less in other towns in Sullivan, Hillsborough, and Merrimack Counties. PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 218 In 1820, lie was called to the Domestic Missionary work. He was truly one of the pioneers in the ministry. A man of great energy and earnestness, not shrinking from any sacrifice for the good of the cause he loved so well and labored so faithfully to sustain, iiothing. but utter inabil- ity could deter him from meeting his appointments, many times travelling until late into the night, and through the scorching heats and drenching rains of summer. He had a strong physical constitution, which enabled him to endure his arduous labors. The following was copied from the Christian Watchman and Reflector^ some time after his decease. It is from the pen of Rev. G. Robbins, who ofiiciated at his funeral, be- ing at that time pastor of the Baptist church in Keene. Speaking of his successful labors in the ministry, he says: " He was a man of a kind, conciliatory spirit, humble, IH'ayerful, and zealous in every good work. And he be- longed to a class of men that ought never to be forgotten, — that class which performed the labors and endured the privations of the pioneers of our cause in this State." After his death in 1849, the Dublin Association, as an expression of regard to his memory, passed the following: " Resolved, that his faithful and arduous labors in planting new churches in fields before unoccupied, and breasting the force of opposition commonly incident to such a work, claims from us not only a tribute of high respect, but of affectionate and Christian remembrance ; and, as life is still spared to us, ma}^ a sense of our increased obligations stim- ulate us to renewed devotion in the service of our divine Master." He never wrote his sermons; but, in the early years of his ministry, he would select a text of Scripture before going to the field (for at that time he tilled the soil), and while laboring with his hands he mentally studied and wrought out his sermons. He had a strong, sympathetic nature, and possessed the power to move his audience to a remarkable degree. It was no unusual thing to see the congregation moved to tears. The last few years of his life lie labored in 214 HISTORY OP MARLBOROUGH. Pottersville, and preached up to the last Sabbath but one before his death which occurred in Roxbury, N.H., Dec. 27, 1849, at the age of seventy-two years. Rev. Cyrus Stone, son of Shubael and Polly (Rogers) Stone, was born in Marlborough, June 9, 1793. He became a professing Christian at nineteen years of age, and re- mained a farmer up to the age of twenty-four years. His attention being then turned to the condition of the pagan world, he determined, after mature deliberation, to devote himself to the preaching of the gospel among the heathen. He spent a year and a half at the Kimball Union Academy, Meriden, after which he entered Dartmouth in 1818, graduating in the class of 1822. Possessed of little means and receiving but slight help from others, he mainly supported himself, both in his pre- paratory and through his collegiate course, by his own exer- tions ; laboring on the farm in summer, and in winter teaching in Fitzwilliam, Westminster, Vt., and other places- His influence in college and in places of temporar}^ labor was decidedly felt as a Christian worker. After graduating at Dartmouth, he at once entered "Andover Theological Seminary," graduating thence in the class of 1825. It being deemed by the American Board desirable that their male missionaries to India at that time should be possessed of some medical knowledge, he spent the autumn of the same year at Hanover, N.H., in attendance on medical lectures. Early in 1826, he continued his medical studies at the Harvard Medical School, spending the year in their prosecution as well as in the performance of a large amount of religious work in Boston and vicinity. During this year, he was united in marriage to Miss Atossa Frost, daughter of Col. Joseph and Zilpha (Roberts) Frost of his native town, and with her sailed from Boston for Bombay in the ship "Emerald" — Capt. Heard — on the 7th of May, 1827, arriving safely in India in September of the same year. The children of this marriage were two, Elizabeth W. and Atossa F., who, after the death of Mrs. Stone, were sent PKOMINKNT TNDIVTDFALS. 215 to America at a very tender age to be educated ; their father remaining to prosecute his work. In the year 1834, he married Miss Abigail W. Kimball, of Waterford, Maine, who had gone to India, a single lady, to teach in the girls' school, under the auspices of the American Board. The children by this union were five, two of whom, Mary Sabine and James Farrar, Avere born in India, and are still living ; and three, after their return to this country, of whom only Rev. Cyrus Stone of Minnesota survives. * Of the children by the first marriage, the elder, Elizabeth, died before her father's return ; while the younger is still living. In 1841, after fourteen years' service, he was compelled by tlie state of his own as well as his wife's health to return to America. He preached for varying times in Bingham, Maine, Harwich, Saugus, and East Bridgwater, Mass., and then located for several years in Melrose, Mass., seven miles from Boston, and engaged in the publication of the '•'Mother's Assistant " and ^ Happy Home," monthl}" maga- zines of a religious character, and books of a similar kind for families. His final work, however, was in the ministry. He was instrumental in founding and providing with a permanent house a church in Beechwood, a portion of Cohasset, Mass. ; and he was called to be the pastor of the flock he had gathered. Here he died, on the 19th of July, 1867, of a chronic affection of the liver, aggravated, if not caused, by his residence in India. Rev. Osgood Herrick,! son of Ebenezer and Lj-dia (Eaton) Herrick, was born in Marlborough, Nov. 19, 1799. He worked upon his father's farm until the age of fifteen, when lie was j)laced in a store in Keene, where he remained until he Avas twenty-one, giving entire satisfaction to his employers. *He was killed by lightning since the above was written. t This notice is taken mainly from a sketch of his life i)ul)lishe(l, soon after his death, in the " IJoston Ueconler " of April 28, 1837. 216 lllSroitV OF MARLHOUOrCH. In the year 1818, at a time of great religious declension, Mr. Herrick and two others became the subjects of renew- ing influences of the Holy Spirit, and in the month of July of the same year united with the Congregational Church of Keene, under the pastoral care of Rev. Z. S. Bastow. Soon after, he felt an ardent desire to' become more extensively useful than he could in the business in which he was engaged. Accordingly, he resolved, as soon as circumstances would allow, to prepare himself for the ministry. In the spring of 1821, he commenced the study of Latin, and in the fall of 1822 was admitted a member of Dartmouth College. As he allowed himself but little time for i)reparation, he entered college under many disadvan- tages, and consequently severe study became necessary during his first collegiate year. It was during this year that his constitution was impaired and the foundation of that disease laid which resulted in his death. In the autumn of 1826, he graduated at Dartmouth College, being regarded as one of the most distinguished of his class. Tlie following year he was engaged in teaching in the State of Virginia. In 1827, he became a member of Andover Theological Seminary, where he remained the usual term of three years. On leaving the seminary, he received a unanimous call to become the pastor of the Congregational Church in Milbury, and on the 9tli of December, 1830, was ordained and installed over that church and society. Ten days subsequent, he was united in marriage to Miss Emily Wilder of Keene. Mr. Herrick was a self-made man. By his own persever- ance, he overcame difficulties from which most young men would have shrunk. By his industry and economy, he defrayed nearly the whole expense of his education. , Dili- gence and perseverance were among the distinguishing traits in his character. He was never idle. He felt the Avork of the ministry was too important to admit of indolence, and he felt too great an interest in the salvation of men and the honor of liis Divine Master to be discouraged by any dilHculties that were surmountable. PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 217 Mr. Herrick's talents were more useful than splendid. He excelled rather in clearness of mind than brilliancy of imagination. His views were seldom confused or his conceptions feeble on any subject to which he directed his attention. He was a man of sound practicable wisdom. He formed his opihions on subjects, after taking a comprehen- sive view of their various bearings, and generally with such precision as not to have occasion to change. He was also a man of firmness of purpose, — did not form any plan of action without careful examination and a conviction of duty ; but, when his conclusions were formed, he was not wavering, and only on the presentation of weighty reasons did he desire to change. Cautious to resolve, convinced he was right, he firmly and with all the energies of his soul executed his resolutions. His mind was well balanced ; and his faculties were not only well proportioned, but cultivated in due symmetry. As a preacher of divine truth, Mr. Herrick was clear, instructive, energetic, and expressive. He never aimed, in the solemn work of preaching the gospel, merely to amuse the fancy or gratify a fastidious taste, but to enlighten the mind, arouse the conscience, affect the heart, and save the soul. His manner of delivery was earnest and impressive ; his eloquence was that of clear thought, sound argument, and ardent feeling. As a pastor, he was devoted and labo- rious, ever ready to counsel the afflicted, to instruct the inquirer, to encourage and edify the saints ; as a friend, frank, affectionate, and obliging. In June, 1835, at a Sunday-school convention, immedi- ately after addressing the assembly, he was attacked with a slight hemorrhage of the lungs. A few days after, he had another severe attack, and from that time began gradually to sink.. He was, however, able to discharge the duties of a pastor until the last Sabbath in December, 1836, when he preached his farewell sermon. It was a solemn occasion. He felt, and gave his hearers to understand, that he was preaching his last discourse. At no time during his sickness was he desponding or 28 218 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. gloomy, but always cheerful and happy. He spoke of death as "going home." "To me," he said, "there is nothing gloomy or terrible in death." He manifested the most entire patience and submission. During the whole of his protracted sickness, not a word of complaint escaped his lips. He often said: "I am an astonishment to myself. I did not suppose it possible that I could endure all the pain and languor I have, without a single impatient feeling. But such is the fact. I can truly say that I have not felt even the rising of a single impatient feeling." His countenance was alwaj^s lighted up with a smile, and, though he shed tears, they were always tears of joy and gratitude. He died at Milbury, Mass., March 16, 1837. Rev. Luther Wis wall was born in Marlborough, Jan. 9, 1801. He was the son of Maj. John and Mary (Tayntor) Wiswall. He early developed a thirst for knowledge, but had only limited educational privileges, having simply the advantages of common schools till he was seventeen years of age, when he began to teach winter schools, and con- tinued to do so for fifteen years. In the mean time, he attended two terms at an academy, and pursued his studies at home as he had opportunity. In 1829, he purchased a small farm, and in 1830 married Miss Sophronia Kendall of Athol, Mass. Six children were born to them, of whom only two survive, a son and daughter. In 1822, Mr. Wiswall united with the Congregational Church, then under the pastoral care of the Rev. Halloway Fish. He was soon brought into active service in the church, and for several years superintended the Sabbath- school. In studying the Scriptures to qualify himself for the duties of his office, he became interested in study for its own s-ake, and the thought often arose that he would like to pi'each the gospel. This thought was not easily repressed. His activity in the church led, much to his surprise, to his election as deacon. The church in ]\Iarlborough was at that time weak, and much disturbed by the coming in of those wlio preached PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 219 another gospel. Others claimed the right to occupy their house of worship a part of the time. A small Unitarian Church was organized, and the Congregational Church was unable to procure preaching that was acceptable. But, after a struggle of more than ten years, they built a small house of worsliip, and have since seen better days. Mr. Wiswall did much, in those days of trial, to encourage and strengthen the despised band of believers, often bearing a large part of the burden of sustaining public worship. In 1834, while tliis house was building, he sold his farm and stock, and removed East, and entered the seminary at Bangor. His mind had been turned to the ministry by witnessing the great difticulty of small churches in obtaining ministers, hoping to qualify himself to meet the wants of some needy Hock of God. Mr. Wiswall was graduated at Bangor, Me., in 1836, and was settled as pastor of the church in Brooks and Jackson the following year. Here he labored till 1854, when he removed to Windham, Me., where he has since labored. Though late in entering the ministry, he has preached the gospel more than forty years. Nor has he preached in vain. Several seasons of refreshing were enjoyed by the church in Brooks and Jackson, and large additions made to the church. In Windham also, his labors have been blessed of God. He has uncommon skill in building a church on strong foundations, rooted and grounded in the great truths of the gospel. His own mind clearly appre- hends the foundation doctrines of the Christian system; and he has the power of so presenting them as to convince others of their truth. Mr. WiswalFs intellectual structure is of a marked character. He has great mental acuteness, is profoundly logical and of sound judgment. He is therefore eminently fitted to grapple with sceptical minds, and either convince or confound them. A young man of sceptical proclivities at one time boarded in his family, not at all apprehensive that his confidence in the arguments on which he rested Avould be shaken. He was well assured of his ability to 220 HISTOEY OF MARLBOROUGH. defend his position. Not many months of free intercourse with his pastor had passed, before his confidence in infidel sentiments gradnally subsided ; and it was not long before he gave in his adhesion to the truth and claims of the gospel, and yielded himself as a friend and follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. This young man subsequently, with great honor to himself and benefit to the public, occupied for years a seat on the bench of the Supreme Court of his native State ; and for several years he " used the office of a deacon well " in a prominent church. His death was a public loss. At another time, two young men of public education came under his ministry. They belonged to the liberal school of theology. Their course for a while gave rise to the apprehension that they hoped to liberalize the church, and supplant good, old-fashioned orthodox}-. For a season aftairs wore a threatening aspect. But the pastor was not caught napping. By a course of reasoning upon the ques- tions involved, and the wise use of Scripture, the sound- ness of the church remained intact, and the 3'oung men found it convenient to seek other places of residence. Mr. Wiswall is a sound theologian, and an able defender of the "faith once delivered to the saints." Nor does he belong to that class of preachers who think it unprofitable to preach the doctrines, the great vital truths, of the gospel, — who seem to think they are effete, worn out, and not fitted to this enlightened age. Men of this da}- are too wise to embrace them, too free and liberal to yield to their authority. But not so with Mr. Wiswall. He regards them as the teachings of infinite wisdom, fitted to the spiritual wants of men of all ages, countries, and climes, and as the power of God unto salvation to all who cordially receive them. Hence he preaches them clearly and con- scientiously, as of vital benefit to his hearers. In his hand, they are not stale and commonplace, but racy, and instinct with life and energy. Socially, Mr. Wiswall is one of the most genial and companionable of men. A quiet wit, guided by strong PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 221 common-sense, adds much to the pleasure of social inter- course with him. One needs to know him well to appre- ciate him. He is a brother beloved in the churches ot" jNIaine, having the confidence and respect of all who know him, ministers and churches. Rev. Philander Wallingford,* son of Ebenezer 13. and jNlary Wallingford, was born in Marlborough, N.H., June 6, 1812. His childhood was passed like that of other children, blessed, however, with the care of Christian parents, Avliose counsels and discipline laid the foundation of his future manhood. One incident, however, occurred at school, when he was five years old, that gave pleasure to his mother, and is worthy of notice, as it was the first sermon he ever preached. It was the custom at intermission for the boys in that school to go down to Deacon Guild's to drink water out of " The old oaken bucket that hung in the well " ; and one day, while they were thus engaged, one of the little boys swore that it was his turn to drink next. Whereupon little Philander told him it was wicked to swear, and that God would be displeased with him. When the school assembled in the afternoon, the teacher came to him, and presented him with a beautiful little book, upon the fly-leaf of which was written : — Presented to Philander Wallingford for reproving one of his school- mates for using bad language at intermission. (Sig-ned) WILLIAM GUILD. When he went home, his mother pressed him to her bosom, told him he was a good bo}^, and that the book was a reward of merit. From that moment he regarded that book of all others the best. Never did he prize one more highly, — not even the Book of books, which, more than twenty years subsequent, the bishop delivered to him, saying, "Take thou authority to read the Holy Scriptures in the church of God, • This sketch is by Rev. A. K. Howard, formerly pastor of the Methodist Epis- copal Church. 222 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. aud to preach the t>ame. " ludeed, it was a primer con- taining Sc'viptnre lessons adapted to the capacity of little children, w ith pictures to illustrate the same. In 1827, his parents removed to Claremont. He remained at home until he was twenty-one, laboring with and for his father, thus forming habits of industry and economy, which have been of great service to him through life. He early saw that character was formed by the society in which men move; He therefore chose his companions from the virt- uous and upright, shunning the vicious and evil. Thus, through good associations, as he reached his manhood, he was cultured in wisdom and integrity, and Avas respected by all. Accustomed to attend public worship with his parents and to join with them in their hymns of praise (leading for some time the choir), he could but see and feel the necessity of " the one thing needful," yet this one thing he lacked. A change, however, was soon to come over his life. In the summer of 1831, he became more thoughtful, and con- versed freely with an intimate friend upon his need of a Saviour. About this time, he decided to attend the select school of Rev. A. Buck, at Chelsea, Vt. It was a time of religious revival ; and the scholars, as well as the citizens, were sharers in its fruits. The favor- able time had come. The matter was well considered, and his conclusion was to give his heart to Christ and his life to the service of God. He immediately informed his parents of the happy change, and, when he returned to his friends, he united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and has continued a loyal member. Having reached his majority, he resolved to improve his education, to fit himself better for some useful calling. His father gave him about one hundred and fifty dollars. This, with what he could add by teaching singing-schools, and other acts of industry, he expended at New Market Acad- emy, When his funds were gone, he asked himself, What shall I do? There was a sensible impression of a call to PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 223 the ministr}^, seconded by the voice of the Church. l>nt, in view of the responsil)ilities of the ministry and liis inability further to prosecute his studies, he turned aside to useful and honorable business, which he pursued with fair success. Jan. 1, 1838, he married Miss Caroline M. Treadwell, of New Market, N.H., a lady well qualified to share with him the responsibilities of his after life. She has been the light of his home, and her companionship he still enjoys. Mr. Wallingford was not long to continue in his secular business. God had a higher and better work for him to do, and he very signally and unmistakably called him to it. In a protracted conversation with a clergyman who was deeply solicitous that he should enter the ministry, and who had come a long distance to converse with him on the subject, and who pressed with great earnestness his en- treaties, a pledge was given that, if Providence opened a door that gave unmistakable evidence that it was of God, he would no longer resist. Very soon after this conversation, he went to Framing- ham, Mass., to visit a sister, one hundred miles distant. There, on the street, he met Rev. Phinehas Crandall, a Presiding Elder in the New England Conference. They were entire strangers. After paying to each other common civilities, Mr. Crandall asked him if he was a preacher. He answered no. " Have you not had drawings and call- ings in that direction ? " This question was not directly answered. Following up the subject, Mr. Crandall said : " I think it is a Providence that has brought us together. I have a vacancy in my district, and I want you to fill it." Every objection named on account of inefficiency was laid aside by Mr. Crandall who still urged him to comply with his request ; and, in view of the pledge he had so recently made, he yielded to his importunities, and consented to go. It was therefore arranged that at a given time he was to go to Brookfield, Mass., as preacher in charge of that appoint- ment, not having at that time a license to preach. At the time appointed, he proceeded thither, and was received with great cordiality, the people not dreaming that 224 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. their preaclier was a layman till the expiration of about three months, Avhen they were informed by their pastor that the quarterly meeting was approaching, and, if he remained with them in his present capacity, it would be necessary for him to liave a license to preach, and that it must, according to the laws of the Church, come from them. At said quarterly meeting, he was licensed, and his license signed by Phinehas Crandall, P. E., dated Brookfield, Mass., Sept. 20, 1842. In 1843, he joined the New England Con- ference. In 1845, he was ordained Deacon by Bishop E. S. Jones, and Avas subsequently ordained Elder by Bishop F. A. ]\Iorris. All this speaks well of his ability as a preacher, and progress in his theological studies. He preached in the following places in Massachusetts : Brookfield, Natick, Barre, South Barre, Winchendon, North Brookfield, Shelburne Falls, and Holyoke. On account of the feebleness of his wife, and a bronchial affection, which for the time impaired his efficiency as a speaker, in 1856 he returned and located at Claremont. He could not, however, be allowed long to remain unem- ployed. Many doors were opened for him to preach in his located capacity. He was called to supply in New Hamp- shire the following places: Rochester, Rye, South New Market, Walpole, Cornish, and Goshen ; and, in Vermont, Nortli Hartland and Weathersfield Boav. The church he served at the latter place was Congregationalist, where he preached more than two years. The following report of the Windsor Association of Con- gregational Ministers, before whom he was examined while holding his pastorate there, will show how he was regarded by that fraternitj^ : — Report of the Wimlsor Association upon the case of Rev. P. Wallingford, acting pastor at Weathersfield Bow : I. Wo found him a regularly ordained Elder in the Methodist Episcopal Church. II. A clear and full statement of his religious experience leaves no doubt on our minds that he is a converted man. III. The statement of his views in entering the ministry makes the impression that he was actuated by an eai'uest desire for the salvation I'KO.MINICNT INDIVIDIALS. 225 of souls; and nothing' in his ministry liere leads us Jo lliink any other motive actuates him now. IV. In a protracted examination ol' him as to his doctrinal \ie\vs, he seems to us thoroughly sound, and in entire agreement with us on every point except election and perseverance. V. In respect to worship and ordinances, he declares not only his purpose, but his choice, to conform to the usages of this church, so long- as he shall minister to it. VI. As to his proposed lal)or, he is to do all the church asks; namely, to preach one sei-mou each Sabbath, superintend the Sabbath school, and visit as if resilient here. VII. The Association iind a very good degree of union and harmony in the church, and no o]iposition personally to Mr. Wallingford. VIII. As to the question of applying funds for the support of any but a Congregational minister here, would say, were it to be done in any instance, we cannot conceive of a case in which, so far as any thing- appears, it could be safer than in this case. Signed by vote of the Association, S. 11. CO 15 15. President. X. Bishop. Clerk. Thus it will iippear that he labored with acceptance, not only with his own denomination, but witli others, showing- that he possessed a true catholic spirit. His sermons were carefully prepared, and impressively delivered ; and, in all the churches he served, he strove to do the work of a preacher and pastor. Especially was he efficient in aiding churches to build church-edifices and parsonages. His skill as a draughts- nian enabled him to plan wisely, and his habits of economy led him to appropriate funds judiciously. He has been an earnest worker in the temperance cause, seeking in this and in every other way the best good of society. In the location and establishment of the Claremont Junc- tion Camp Meeting, he has been one of the leaders. The grounds have been laid out under his special direction, and whatever is beautiful and convenient in that regard is due to him. The Association has made him its treasurer, and ho carefully looks after its interests. What he accumulated before entering the ministry he safely invested, the proceeds of which afford liini now a competency. 30 226 HISTORY OF MAHLHUKOUGH. llf has miide for Ids wife and himself a pleasant home on Central Street, Claremont, N.H., near the church of his choice. Thus, after his wanderings as an itinerant, he can now sing : — •• At lioiue again from toil and strife, Home made for wife and me ; Where, in the evening of our life. We may in (juiet he." Rev. WILL[A^[ C. Whitcomb, son of Deacon Simeon and Sally (Ijincoln) Whitcomb, was born in Marlborough, Feb. 9, 1820. He was in childhood singularly dutifid to his parents, never requiring discipline to enforce their com- mands ; and in mature years was ever anxious, according to his means, to promote their welfare. He received from them a religious training, and in 1887 united with the Con- gregational Church in this town. He pursued his literary and classical course at the Acade- mies in Jaffrey, Troy, and Ashby. He earned his money to attend them by teaching, always living in the uu;)st econom- ical way. He studied theology at Gilnumton Theological Seminar}', completing his course in 1847, at which time he was licensed to preach. He received several calls to settle in New Hampshire, but declined, as he wished to obtain further help for his work by attending the lectures of Prof. Park, in Andover Theological Seminary. He remained at Andover two years as a Licentiate student. May 1, 1851, he was ordained pastor of the church in Stoneham, Mass. May 1, 1852, he was married to Miss Harriet L. Wheeler, of Concord, Mass. In August, 1855, he was dismissed from the church in Stoneham, after Avhich he labored with the churches in (.il()l)e Village (Southbridge), in North Carver, and in Lynnfield Centre, all in Massachu- setts. He received a commission as Chaplain of the United States Hospital at Newbern, N.C., which bears the signa- tures of Abraham Lincoln and Edward M. Stanton, dated July 5, 1862. which lie licl- mid nrciicliiii'j'. He is held in grate- PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 233 fill remembrance here for his efforts in behalf of educa- tion, morality, and religion. From Swanzey, he removed to Westmoreland, and took charge of the Universalist Society there, and the one also in West Chesterfield. He taught a select school a portion of the time. He was soon elected to the responsible office of School Commissioner for Cheshire County, which he held till 1859. At the meeting of the State Board of Commissioners, he was appointed president. In winter, he visited schools and lectured on education. In spring, he held Teachers' Institutes, and thus made his influ- ence felt extensively among the teachers and the people. From Westmoreland, he was called to take charge of Westbrook Seminary near Portland in Maine, commencing his labors there in April, 1861. He remained there nearly eight years, and raised the institution into a flourishing condition. His first term of thirty scholars, he was accus- tomed to say, was the hardest he ever taught. He sought to put the school upon a firm basis of discipline and systematic study ; and he finally succeeded in infusing a healthy, moral, and intellectual tone among the students, and awakening a noble ambition in their hearts. The school became very popular, sometimes numbering from one hundred and seventy-five to two hundred and forty mem- bers. In 1864, he obtained from the State Legislature a charter for a woman's college, the first of the kind belonging to the denomination in New England. From this college, he graduated annually a class of young women who, by their scholarship and moral influence, gave tone and vigor to the society in which they moved. The seminary was noted for the cultivation of the social powers of the students. A common interest united teachers and pupils. In the summer of 1866, in company with his wife, he visited Europe, and remained there till the spring of 1867. In their travels, they visited Ireland, Scotland, England, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. He was delighted with the varied and sublime scenery of the Alps, and spent several weeks there, breathing the pure air of the mountains in the warm weather, and dwelling on the 31 234 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. shores of the Swiss and Italian hikes during the winter. He stopped a hnig time also in London, Paris, and Rome, and studied their history, anti(;[uities, and social institu- tions, and the topography of the surrounding country. He wrote full, frequent, and interesting letters for the Portland Transcript, the Grospel Banner, and other papers, which were read with eager interest not only by his friends, but also by many who had never before heard his name. In the spring of 1867, he returned to his school with fresh energy, and his mind invigorated and expanded by what he had observed and studied. He remained in the seminary till July, 1868, when, in company with the writer, taking one of the Montreal and Liverpool steamers at Quebec, and passing around the north of Ireland, he made his second tour of Europe, revisiting the countries which he on his former tour visited, and extending his travels to Egypt, Palestine, Turkey, and Greece. It was a memorable journey, espe- cially the month passed in the Holy Land ; and it produced a vivid and lasting impression upon his mind. We went up the Nile, ascended the Pyramids, landed at Jaffa, and spent nearly two weeks in and around Jerusalem, stood before the tombs of the patriarchs, bathed in the Jordan, walked along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, supped and slept in the birthplace and the home of the youthful Jesus, for two days rode along the sandy shores of the Mediterranean, stopping over night in the old, dilapidated cities of Tyre and Sidon. He rode over the Leban mountains, visiting Baalbec and the Cedars of Lel)anon. Then we took steamer at Beyrout, and passed among the Greek and Turkish Isles of the Archipelago, spent a Sunday at Smyrna, and thence, along- side the plain of old Troy, through the Dardanelles to Constantinople ; thence to Athens, whence we made excur- sions to Pentelicus and other ports of Greece, to Corinth, Corfu, and Brindisi in Italy. He visited many of the cities where he stopped on his first tour, but spent less time in those, as his chief object was to pass through " the lands of the Bible." The journey was fruitful in results, and his social and professional life was greatly enriched by the offerings he gathered, PEOMINENT INDIVIDUALS, 235 On his return in February, 1869, he lectured extensively and his lectures were received everywhere with marked favor. He also wrote letters for some half a dozen papers, descriptive of the lands he visited; and these were read more eagerly even than were those of liis first journey. He remained in the school at Westbrook until the sum- mer of 1869, when he resigned, and in the fall took pastoral charge of the Universalist Church in Nashua, N.H. His pastorate was a success, productive of marked spiritual re- sults. In the fall of 1872, he removed to Akron, Ohio, and entered upon the presidency of Buchtel College, a new liter- ary institution, established chiefly through the labors and generous benefactions of John R. Buchtel of that city. In this honorable and responsible position, he has worked for six years ; and with the aid of the benefactors, the patrons, and the members of the faculty, he has put the college upon a firm basis, and given it a name, and made it a power in the State. In addition to his official duties, he has preached and lectured in the principal towns and cities of the State, and thus extended his influence and the influence of the college, and done much in behalf of education and religion. In consideration of his merits as a scholar and his high posi- tion as an educator, St. Lawrence University, in June, 1874, gave him the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity. In their domestic relations. Dr. McCollester and his wife have been called to experience much sorrow. Of five chil- dren born to them, only one remains, Lee, now growing up to manhood and fitting to become a blessing to his parents and the world. In his life, Mr. McCollester illustrates the phases that distinguish the genuine New Englander, — energy, patience, faith, industry, and perseverance. While he has not sought honors, he has obtained them. He has aimed to do good, and by faithfully pursuing his object he has been eminently successful in life. Since the above was written, Mr. McCollester with his wife and son has spent another year in the old country for the purpose of making himself more familiar with men, institutions, and places. During his absence, he wrote for 236 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. several different papers ; and since liis return he has had . more calls to lecture on his travels than he could fidfil. He has a remarkabl}'" happy faculty in enabling others to see what he saw and feel what he felt. Jairus B. Collins, M.D., son of Samuel and Lydia (Matthews) Collins, was born in Marlborough, April 21, 1794, He studied medicine with Dr. Ephraim K. Frost of this town ; and at the completion of his studies, in 1822, he removed to Londonderry, Vt., where he was a successful physician up to the time of his death which occurred Feb. 3, 1851. Jeremiah Stone, M.D., son of Shubael and Polly (Rogers) Stone, was born in Marlborough, Nov. 2, 1798. He graduated at Dartmouth Medical College, December, 1825. He commenced the practice of medicine in Tops- field, Mass., Jan. 6, 1826, and remained there eleven years. Finding a country practice with its long and tiresome rides, was impairing his health, he removed to New Bedford, and thence to Provincetown, Mass., in 1864, where he remained until his death, with the exception of two 3'ears spent in Chatham. In town affairs, he ever took an active interest, endeav- oring to build up the place and render it truly prosperous. Foremost in all good movements, he cordially espoused the cause of anti-slavery in its earliest da^-s, wlien it was unpop- ular to be an abolitionist. He was an ardent supporter of temperance, and an earnest worker in the Congregational Church, of which he had been a member since 1814. He was an honorary member of the Massachusetts Medical Society. He was intolerant of quackery in every form, and strict in his views of professional etiquette. Prompt in decision, self-reliant in the emergencies of his profession, he inspired and retained confidence in his skill. Tliough often abrupt in liis manners, yet beneath was a warm heart that beat in sympathy with the needy and oppressed. Earnest in his convictions, decided in his opin- PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 237 ions, and cheerful in his disposition, he carried the elasticity of youth into the last years of his advanced life. Tall and erect, of powerful presence, he inspired with hope the sick who sought his aid. To a naturally buoyant spirit was added the sustaining power of a strong and earnest religious faith that made belief to him a bright and clear reality. He died April 23, 1875. Timothy L. Lane, M.D., son of John and Mary (Living- ston) Lane, was born in jNIarlborough, Sept. 1, 1800. He studied medicine with Dr. Batcheller. Attended school first at Groton, Mass., afterwards at Hanover, N.H., where he graduated in medicine in 1824. He located first at Sullivan, in 1825 ; removed to Lunenburg, Vt., in 1832 ; remained there until 1834, when he went to Gilsum, N.H., where he lived until 1838 ; from thence to Daysville, 111., practised medicine there till 1841, then removed to Fillmore, 111., and continued the practice of his profession until his death, Sept. 1, 1849, being his forty-ninth birthday. He was married in 1825 to Roxana Harvey who died Jan. 1, 1849, preceding him just eight months, leaving two chil- dren, a son and daughter, both residing in Fillmore, 111., at the present time. John Quincy Adams McCollester, M.D., is the son of Silas and Achsah (Holman) McCollester. He first saw light in the easterly part of Marlborough, near the Roxbury line. May 3, 1831. In March, 1836, the family removed to the village. From the age of four years to that of ten, he attended the district school which was usually kept two terms a year, of eleven weeks each. Intelligent and active in mind and body, at the age of ten years he commenced to work in his father's pail manufactory, and soon exhibited his capability by performing the usual labor of a skilled artisan. His schooling was now limited to the winter term. In the autumn of 1846, he attended a select school in his own village, taught b}- Uvo brothers. Ransom N. and Royal 238 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. H. Porter, and subsequently received further instruction in the schools and academies in Fitzwilliam, Walpole, Saxton's River, and South Woodstock. He was often associated with his brother, Rev. Sullivan H. McCollester, as an assist- ant teacher, and it was under his supervision, mainly, that he effected his preparation for college. In the winter of 1848-49, he taught school in the "Fay Hill" district in Walpole, and enjoyed the New England experience of "boarding round." The Doctor frequentl}^ alludes to this portion of his life with pleasure. The intelligence, applica- tion, and interest of the scholars in their school work, he represents as unequalled in any school with which he has been acquainted. During the two subsequent winters, he taught school in the same district. In 1851, he passed an examination, and was admitted to the class that graduated in 1853 from the Norwich University at Norwich, Vt. In 1856, he received the degree of A.M. from this institution. After completing his academical course, he entered the office of Dr. James Batcheller of his native town as a student of medicine. He attended one course of medical lectures at the Dartmouth Medical School, and for five months in 1855 he was employed as an assistant in the hospital at Deer Island, Boston Harbor. He went to Pliil- adelphia in October, 1855, attended the course of lectures delivered at the Jefferson Medical College during the winter of 1855-56, and received the degree of M.D. from this institution in March, 1856. Industrious and apt as a student, he received high mark- ings in all his studies, but preferred mathematics and the exact sciences to literary and classical branches. He has often remarked that the great latitude, uncertainty, and want of precision in the meaning and use of words in literature and the classics have rendered them less congenial to his taste than the study of the sciences. In May, 1856, he married Miss Sarah E. Hazen of Shirley, Mass., and during the same month settled in South Deer- field. During his short stay in this place, he gained the confidence of the people ; but, concluding tluit the field was >^ A, ^^..^^c^.^^^^^ PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 239 too contracted, in November of the same year he moved to the vilhige of Groton Junction, now known as Ayer. On the 28th of August, 1857, his daughter Anna was born, and on the 5th of May, 1858, his happy home was made desolate by the death of his wife. Aug. 9, 1859, occurred his marriage to Georgianna L. Hunt, who has borne him six children, three of whom now survive. In Ma}', 1862, he volunteered his services as a medical officer, and was employed as a surgeon in the field and in hospital, during and subsequent to the disastrous campaign of McClellan on the Peninsula. In November, 1862, he was commissioned surgeon of the Fifty-third Regiment Massa- chusetts Volunteers, and was on duty with the regiment during its active service in Louisiana. He was mustered out at the expiration of the term of service of the regiment, Sept. 2, 1863. As a medical officer, he gained the confidence of his superiors in rank, and was regarded as able and efficient. At the conclusion of his military service, he resumed his practice at Groton Junction. He was appointed Examining Surgeon for United States Invalid Pensioners in 1864, which office he held till 1876, when pressure of professional duties obliged him to retire from his position. Dr. McCoUester has never been a political aspirant ; nevertheless, he has always been alive to all matters of social interest. He served seven years on the board of school committee of Groton, and two years in the same capacity in Harvard, in which town he has resided since April, 1869. He is a charter member of Caleb Butler Lodge of A. F. and A. Masons, and is one of its Past Masters. As a physician, gifted with senses remarkabh^ acute, deli- cate of touch, quick and keen in observation, taking in the physiognomy of disease, reading understandingly books, men, and things, his judgment, correct and rapid, appears as if produced by intuition. Probably the most reliable gauge of a physician's ability is his reputation with his professional brethren. Many who 240 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. stand higli in public esteem as medical men speak very highly of Dr. McCollester's professional abilities ; and were it not for his attachment to his friends, which has confined him to a laborious but not very remunerative practice, he might easily have found a larger field for his talents, better compensation, less physical and mental wear, and time for scientific stud}^ As a man, his social nature is largely developed; and the repeated afflictions he has sustained in the death of his children, have been very heavy blows to him. lie is affable and courteous to all, and treats the indigent sufferer with the same kind consideration which he extends to the affluent. He is not wanting in ambition, and desires and appreciates the good-will and approbation of the public. Love of money forms no part of his composition, and, were it not for the large extent of his practice, he would be con- stantly impecunious. " I cannot explain anything about it,'' said a sick old lady whom he attended. "I certainly thought I should die ; but, when he came into the room, it was like a flood of sunlight. I could not feel discouraged, if I wanted to be." To this power of awakening hope and inspiring courage in the sick and suffering. Dr. McCollester owes no small part of his success. In his religious views, he is liberal, believing that we know too little to assert dogmatically that our brother's views, however different from our own, or however narrow they may appear, are false. He feels contempt for cant and also a genuine respect for honest religious conviction wherever and whenever exhibited. DANn<:L P>. Woodward, M.D., eldest son of Stilman and Eunice (Buttrick) Woodward, was born in Marlborough, N.H., Oct. 1, 1835. He was the eldest of six children, four sons and two daughters, all of whom but one, the youngest son, are married and still living. Mr. Woodward was early instructed to care for and cultivate his father's farm, and thereby at an early age rilOMlNENT INinVlDL'AhS. 241 was inured to solid pliysical lahor. He w as ciiipliaticalh' a worker in Ids boyhood. His early education was lindteil to the brief terms of the district and select schools of his nati\e town. He early ind)ibed an energetic inclination to think and study for himself, being encouraged by his judicious and strong-minded mother who had had experience in teach- ing in the district schools of her native town and vicinity. His youthful mind waxed stronger and stronger while labor- ing on his father's farm and in the Avooden-ware shops near his home, till he arrived at his majority, when he spent two brief terms at Westminster Seminary, Vermont. He was unpretending, studious, and methodical in his attainments, — pr(\gressivc, persevering, hopeful, and bound to succeed. He commenced his professional stiulies under the efiicient instructions of Dr. Samuel A. Richardson of Marlborough. While pursuing his studies, not being unmindful of his duty when his country called, he enlisted in her service, and spent three successive years in a cause that lay near to his heart, his country's freedom. During this time, he suffered the hardships and privations incident to the Held, the camp, and the hospital; ever effi- cient, faithful, and true on the field of battle as elscAvhere. He continued his professional studies in the hospitals of the United States Army, and subse(i[uently entered Harvard Medical College" of Boston, INIass., where he graduated ^larch 8, 1865, and received the degree of jNI.D., and im- mediately began the practice of his profession in Troy, X.H., in plain view of his old homestead, where he remained actively and efiiciently pursuing the profession of his choice. The 17th of May, 1865, found the doctor uniting his interests with the lady of his choice. Miss Ellen A. Burt, of in3-mouth, Vt. In 1868, Dr. Woodward decided to leave the early held of his profession, and removed to Ellenburg, Clinton County, X.Y., where he continues to practise his pro- fession. The doctor's early temperate habits, iinigorating outdoor exercises, and methodical stivliousness. have develope-, enabling him to pciforni the successive duties of each returning day ahnost unmolested by sickness or pain. In Dr. WoodAvard we see that the child and yonth was father of the man. Sumner A. Mason, M.D., fifth sou of Clark and Almira (Towns) Mason, was born at the old homestead. May 23, 18-38, where he continued to reside until twenty-one yeava of age, receiving the limited common school education granted to tlie residents of the farming districts of Marlbor- ough. He subse(iuently became a student of Sullivan II. McCollester, in Westmoreland Valley Seminary, until the breaking out of the Rebellion. He says: " Here allow me to })ay a tribute of respect to my (|uondaui friend and preceptor ; for Avhatever I may owe to other instructors for their efforts, or to parents for their moral and religious training, who without doubt laid the foundation of character, it was he who first inspired me with the hope of a professional future, — that something more than the busy humdrum of life might be evolved from it. And whatever success I may gain in my profession, what- ever fresh laurels 1 uuiy win iVom new efforts, I shall look back upon his counsels and his teachings as upon 'apples of gold in pictures of silver." '' He enlisted with the first three months' troops sent from New Hampshire, as a private in Company A, Cheshire Light (luards, as named by Capt. Barker, which after- wards became a part of the '• fighting second." He went from Keene to Portsmouth, ^vhere the regiment rendez- voused for some weeks, and encamped upon the ground. The exposure, together with a severe attack of conllueiit measles, broke up his licallh \'ny a long time, and confined him to the hospital. While there, suffering from the second stag(^ of this disease, the only thing he can recollect is that he was aroused by an unusual commotion, the sounding of bugles and the rolling of (b'ums: and when he asked, "What is that?" Col. H. B. Titus, who had called to bid hiui adieu, )('plielt" in the practice of Ihc law at La\\i'ciici\ Mass., and speedily M'on, and now holds, an honorable position Tor integrity and legal ability at the distinguished bar of that State. Mr. Stone's ambition has not led him much into political lih'. and theriddre he has not sought pul)lic (sm- ployment. The only political oi'tice he has filled was that of member oi" the Common Council of Lawrence, of which body he was the president. But that he is not without a proper degree of interest in political affairs is shown by liis active and influential membership of the Republican State Central Committee. He holds the judicial commission of ^Master in Chancery. His successful career, social and ])ro- l\'ssional, is due to his native energy of character and the m(U'al qualities that distinguish the man of honor. .loHN Willie Conversk, son of Nelson and Sally M. (Jones) Converse, was born in Marlborough, July o, 1848. Though a farmer's boy, and always obliged to labor at tlie farm work, he was regarded as being of a thoughtful and studious turn of mind, and was encouraged in this by his ])arents, they allowing him the full benefit of such school advantages as tlie town then afforded, and afterwards send- ing him to various seminaries in A'ermont, Maine, and New Hampshire. When about twent)' years of age, lie commenced the study of law at home, under the direction of the late law firm of Wheeler & Faulkner, of Keene, N.H. ; and, when he became of age, removed to Springfield, Mass., Avherc he continued his studies for two years in the office of .Augustus L. Soule, — now judge of the Supreme Court of !\fassac]iu- setts. — and in 1872 was admitted to the bar of that State. The following year he became engaged to and married Miss Clara A. Wheeler, a woman of uncommon merit ami abihty ; but she died in May, 1875. Feeling that he wanted a larger tield of action, in 1876 he travelled through the West, and visited tlie principal cities there f(U' this reason, lint finallv settled in I'xiston. 248 HISTUKV OF MAULHOUOUGIl. wliei'u lit' is iiuw practising his prot'ession. When in Spriug- field, lie beeame interested in politics, taking an active' part in campaign work, and earned cjnite a repntation as a polit- ical speaker. He has always been a Repnblican. l^ike all others in his profession, he has been obliged to work hard and earnestly for the position he holds, but is now in the enioynient of a moderate practice and the full contidence of the l)ar. .V clear thinker and close reasoner, his jndg- ment is always to be relied on, as he never gives an o[)inion hastily. He is fast growing into prominence, and his suc- cess seems assured. Justus Peiirv was born in Marlborough, Feb. 8, 1788. He was the son of Dr. Justus and Martha (Frost) Perry. Although Dr. Perry was the onl}' physician of the place, and had a large practice, he died leaving his family poor. Dr. Adams, an eminent pli3'sician of Keene, who was his compeer, when speaking of the circle of young physicians in that neighborhood, generously remarked that ^ Perry had the most native genius of them all." The young Justus was ai)prenticed to an excellent and worthy saddler, David Wilkinson, Sen. By him and his wife he was treated as a son. At the age of nineteen years, he bought his time of his master, and set up in the same business for himself; his master, who was thorough and skilful, working for him. The wife of Mr. Wilkinson had the greatest turn for trade ; and before that period she once took Justus to Boston with her, seeing his talent for busi- ness. On Sunday moniing, the l)oy of sixteen expressed a desire to go to church. The clerk of the hotel said he would accompany him aud show him about. He took Justus to hear Dr. Cliaiiuiiig })rcacii. This great preacher nr.ule an impression upon tlie youth, wliich he never forgot. He often referred to it in after life, saying that it was a turning-point in his religious character. Not long after beginning business for himself, he accum- ulated enough goods to exchange them for horses, which he sold at New Ha\'cii for a good profit. PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 249 111 the iiieaii time, his step-father, Capt. Wheeler, for whom he had a great respect, died. As soon as his mother's affairs could be settled, he removed her, with her family of young children, to Keene. She was a woman of remarkable force of character, and had unusual sagacity in the labors of love among her sick neighbors. The celebrated Dr. Twitchell of Keene, when he gave up hope of a case, used to say, " If she cannot save him, nobody can." Justus rented a store in Keene, and began business there. His mother's means were small, and he devoted his time and strength to providing her with a home and the comforts of life. When told that he was wearing himself out by over- taxing his mind and body, and running great pecuniary risks, he replied, " My wish is to see my mother and sister well provided for, and I shall ask for nothing more." He was never unfaithful to this early trust, although he paid the penalty of excessive ambition by a severe typhus fever, which left his constitution somewhat impaired for life. He was always on the lookout for o^jportunities and, when a glass manufacturing company failed, he bought it at great discount, and began a new business, wliich proved very successful. He built a fine house, displaying a taste beyond the times in the choice of a lot and the planting of the grounds. There he installed his mother and her unmar- ried sister and brothers. He shortly after married Mary Haven Edwards, of Bos- ton, Mass., by whom he had two children, a boy and a girl, Horatio Justus and Mary Olivia. His wife died soon after the birth of her daughter ; and he afterwards married Hannah Wood of Concord, Mass. By her he had three children, two girls and a boy, Ellen Elizabeth, Martha Ann, and Henry. He was by no means a mere man of business. Although his early education was scanty, he had a fine appreciation of books, and collected a valuable library. His children recall with pleasure the home where he took down these books, and inspired them with a love of the best literature. He was genial in his habits and hospitable, and never 34 250 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. forgot his early friends, especially the good saddler and his wife; and quickly came the social glass, which he would mix for them after the custom of their times, when they came up from Marlborough, and visited him. He was, how- ever, strictly temperate himself. He had almost an abhor- rence of alcoholic drinks, having seen the evil effects of them so much. He drank nothing on his table but the cider from the farmer's barn. He was somewhat reserved in disposition with the public at large, and enjoyed most the intercourse with his family and relatives, whom he loved with unfaltering affection. His passion, if it might be called so, in early life was for military achievement. He had a fine form, and loved the excitement of the drill and com- mand. He was first captain of a company, afterwards made lieutenant-colonel, and at length general and brigadier-gen- eral of the light infantry of the county. He went into this with all the ardor of youth, and probably found stimulus and refreshment for his jaded nervous system. He was by nature a religious man. At the time of the division in the Congregational Church of Keene, he took his stand on the liberal side, and became a member of the Unitarian Church, remaining ever one of its best supporters. He was in the habit of having devotional services in his family, and loved much to read the Bible, which, he often said, " he needed no commentator to interpret for him." During the last ten years of his life, he was a great sufferer from neuralgic pain. His nervous system was completely prostrated l)y it at length. He rarely ever slept a night through, but was constantly watched by his faithful wife, who lost her own health in her anxiety and care for him. He would walk his sitting-room at intervals during the day, suffering the most acute paroxysm of pain. As soon as the agony began to pass away, he would turn ten- derly and solicitously to his sorrowful wife and children, saying : " Do not worry. I shall soon be over it." Such was his native strength, that immediately after these attacks he would put on his coat and go into the street. His strong frame could not loiiu; hold out. His disease affected his PEOlVriNENT INDIVIDUALS. 251 whole system. He consulted the venerable Dr. Jackson of Boston, who told him that there was great danger of its af- fecting his brain. The prediction proved true, the last two or three months of his life, when his mind succumbed to the power of disease. He died in November, 1840, aged fifty-two years, and was laid in his own tomb, which he had provided on his family estate. After the death of his wife and two of his children, and the departure of the others from Keene, the place was no longer sacred from intrusion ; and his remains were removed, with the rest of his family, to the beautiful ceme- tery now in Keene, where they repose by the side of his two companions and his children. Stjmner Wheeler, son of Capt. David and Martha (Frost) (Perry) Wheeler, was born in Marlborough, March 8, 1807. He was a young man of fine disposition and industrious habits. He was early initiated into business habits by his elder brother, Justus Perry. He continued with him until he was received as a partner ; and after Gen. Perry became disabled, and was obliged to retire, the business was carried on by himself and his brother Quincy. He was married. May 15, 1832, to Catherine Vose of Boston, Mass. By her he had four children, Catherine Frances, Ellen, Mary Bemis, and Frank Sumner. On the death of his two brothers, he sold out his interest in his business, hoping to enter into other active pursuits, in which, however, he was disappointed. But he was far from being an idle man. Such was his character for strict integrity and generosity, that he was continually put into private offices of trust, which gained him much esteem and confidence in the community. The poor widow felt safe to confide her all to him, and the orphan child leaned on him for support. He had a disposition of remarkable geniality. He loved his friends and his neighbors, and found his high- est happiness in serving them. He was often seen with his sleigh full of children, carrying them home from school 252 HISTOHV OF MARLBOBOUGH. on stormy Avinter days ; for all children were to him as his own, and there was a seat at his table for young or old. He it was who must lead the picnic and the farail}^ dance ; and he also was the one who, with grave and sympathetic face, conducted the funeral, or walked by the dead to their last resting-place. He was a regular attendant and sup- porter of the Unitarian Church in Keene, and not only filled the office of treasurer for many years, but gave liberally of his own substance. The sudden death of his younger brother Quincy in the prime of life, a young man of fine promise, was a severe blow to him and to his family ; but his attentions were unwearied towards his older brother Franklin, who was an invalid for many years. His devotion to his half-brother, Justus Perry, then in declining health, was constant, and after Gen. Perry's death he was like a father to his children. He lived daring the first part of his married life in a hired house on Main Street. He afterwards bought the fine place at the lower end of the street, formerly occupied by ]Mrs. Catherine Fiske who had her celebrated school for young ladies there. It was the brightest of homes ; and many were the jokes that passed between him and the venerable Dr. BastoAV one side of him, Dr. Charles Adams in front, and Dr. Inger- soll half-way up the street, wliom he accosted every morn- ing. As an illustration of his character for integrity in the town, we will mention an incident which occurred one day in the bank. A knot of gentlemen were engaged in con- versation on the subject of honesty. One of them said that, no matter how honest a man might seem to be, there was always a flaw in every man somewhere. Another said, " he would wager ten dollars that he could show them an honest man." Another spoke up and replied, " Leave out Sumner Wheeler, and I will stand you." Sumner Wheeler was tlie man of the first wager. As he grew older and had more leisure, his services to his PROMINENT INDrVrDUALS. 253 neighbors were more frequent. His face was a benediction on the street. No misfortunes could make him gloomy. He suffered pecuniary losses, but was never cast down. He would sometimes say, when he heard others speaking de- spondingiy of this life, " For my part, I do not wish for any better world than this." Yet when stricken down by tj'phoid fever, and called suddenly away, he was ready to go. He died Sept. 23, 1861. The 15th Psalm, beginning, " Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacles? who shall dwell in thy holy hills?" read at the funeral, was so singularly appropriate to him that listeners who perhaps rarely read the Bible expressed admi- ration and surprise at its fitness to so just a man. His memory is still green in the home of his affections and the community of Keene. Cyrus Wakefield, son of James and Hannah (Hemen- way) Wakefield, was born in Marlborough, Feb. 14, 1811. His father's farm was included in that territory, which the following year was set off to make the town of Roxbury. Hence the report that he was a native of Roxbury. The following sketch of his life and character is taken from Eaton's History of Wakefield and Reading, Mass.: — " His father's occupation was that of a farmer, and thus his early associations were connected with the rugged dis- cipline of a New England farm-boy. " The school was a mile and a half over the hills ; and it was no easy task in winter, with the snow over the fences to reach it. Yet the New England boy lingers not by the fire, even in the severest storms; but with his books under his arm, and his cap well tied about his ears, he resolutely goes on to his place at school. And well he may, because there are but two terms a year, of ten weeks each, one in winter, the other in summer ; and, when he is twelve years of age, he will not be allowed the privileges of the summer term, since his help is required on the farm. Young Cyrus seems to have realized the importance even of these slight educational advantages, and, by applying himself with great 254 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. zeal to his studies, mastered the rudiinents of the common schooh " The executive and administrative qualities of his mind began .to develop very early in life. There were number- less projects in his busy child"-brain, to the accomplishment of which he bent not only his own, but also the abilities of his brothers. He would induce his father to lay out work in advance for himself and younger brother, sometimes having plans which required a month's time for their exe- cution. At one time, it would be the construction of a fish-pond ; at another, the building of coal-pits, the product of which he sold to the neighboring blacksmiths. . . . " At an early age, he grew restive. Some of his relatives had gone to other States, and at times would return to tell what they had seen and done in the great cities. His father's farm would seem now too small for his growing ambition. The successes of his friends kindled in his own bosom a generous emulation. He, too, would try his fortune in the great world outside. At last, after much urging, his father consented ; and Cyrus went to Peterboro', to enter a cotton mill as a picker-boy. This was a most excellent position to dissipate the rosy hues which had gathered about his ideal world, and to discover to him the cold, stern reality. " Only a short time elapsed, and he was back at the "old homestead, still determined to realize his fondest hopes of one day becoming a merchant. He had heard of the fame of Mr. Appleton of Dublin, who had emerged from obscu- rity like his own, but who was then widel}^ known as a successful and an honorable merchant. What others had done he could do; and he incessantly urged his views upon his father, who as constantly presented the other and darker side, showing how many who went to the city lost health, time, and even character, in their pursuit of wealth, and were ultimately obliged to return in disgrace to their native towns. " His father at length sent him to live with a clergyman in a neighboring village, who, in return for his taking care PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 255 of liis horse and cow, should give him suitable books to read, and if possible lead his mind into theological studies. This good man, however, was not apt to teach. On the first day, he put him down before a large book containing the history of the controversy between Calvin and Armi- nius. The book was dry and uninteresting. After a trial of several days, the boy gave up in despair, convinced that, if Calvin and Arminius could not settle the theological matters in dispute, he certainly could not hope to do it. " He returned again to his father's house, more resolutely determined than ever to go to Boston, and try his luck in the great world of trade. After a few more futile attempts to find congenial employment for him near home, he, at the age of fifteen years, with his parents' consent, came to Boston, declaring that he would achieve success, and make a name of which his friends would be proud. "Arriving in Boston, he at first entered a small retail grocery store of Messrs. Wheeler & Bassett on Washington Street, but soon after secured a clerkship with Messrs. Stearns, Cobb, & Winslow on India Street. While in their employ, he conceived the plan of doing business on his own account, since he had some time at his command not required by his employers. His employers gave him the liberty to buy and sell empty barrels and casks. They also assisted him in other ways in small business-transactions. "At length he had saved one thousand dollars in hard cash. But with the thousand dollars came a still stronger desire for money. He saw the path to wealth opening before him ; and, instead of pursuing a course of study at some college, he bent his energies more strongly than ever to the accumulation of property. This step he regretted in after life, feeling that he had made a serious mistake. He attended evening schools, both of an academic and mercantile nature; visited the various debating societies and churches ; observed carefully the habits of the people ; listened, so far as his time would allow, to the various courses of scientific lectures, for which his mind had a keen relish : and thus laid the foundation of what general knowl- edge he possessed. 256 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. "•During- his business engagement with Messrs. Stearns, Cobb, & Winslow, he made shipments to Valparaiso, and other ports of South America, with indifferent success. In 1834, he entered the grocery business, under the firm name of Foster & Wakefield, on Commercial Street, opposite Commercial Wharf. In 1836, the firm was dissolved; and I\Ir. Wakefield sent to New Hampshire for his younger brother, Mr. Enoch H. Wakefield, with whom two years after he formed a copartnership under the name of Wake- field & Company. This firm was continued until 1844. During the latter part of this copartnership, a small lot of rattan thrown out of a ship as refuse matter was acciden- tally purchased, and sold at a profit to a few chairmakers, who, working the raw material by hand, used the outside of the cane in seating chairs. This favorable purchase, led to others, until, at the dissolution of the firm, Mr. Wakefield opened an office at the corner of Commercial and Cross Streets, where he carried on a jobbing trade in rattan. The demand for split rattan in seating chairs now increased. The great cost of preparing it in this country, without the aid of machinery, caused Mr. Wakefield to look abroad for a supply ; and as he had a brother-in-law in the house of Messrs. Russell & Company, Canton, China, he forwarded to him samples of the cane most in demand. In a few years, his importations of Canton split rattan were known throughout the United States. " In the year 1856, Mr. .Wakefield resolved to begin the manufacture of cane in this country, and to utilize, so far as possible, the whole of the material. The American Rattan Company was at this time the only party cutting cane by machiner}^ and they used it only for seating chairs. The remainder of the rattan was wasted. But Mr. Wakefield determined to make the whole of the rattan — cane, pith, and shavings — valuable. He began with one or two ma- chines worked by hand, in Boston. A fortunate speculation gave him both credit and capital, so that he could enlarge his business. Hearing that there were several large lots of rattan in the New York market, — tlie article being much niUMlNKXT INDIVIDUALS. 257 depressed at that time, — Mr. Wakefield, with all tlio ready money he could command, went to that city, established his quarters quietly at the Astor House, and put his brokers at work to obtain the lowest price at which the entire stock could be purchased, enjoining on them not to name the purchaser. Having obtained the desired information, he decided to take all the available lots, for which he paid sufficient cash to make the material subject to his order. This gave him the whole control of the rattan stock in the country. Prices soon advanced, and he was able to sell and realize a handsome profit. This single operation, not only put money and credit at his disposal, but also gave him a prestige in the business, which he ever after main- tained. " Soon after this, he removed his works from Boston to South Reading. Water-power took the place of hand-power and, as the business rapidly increased, that of steam was soon added. The mill at South Reading, in which he first began soon became too small for him, and building after building was erected, until at the time of his death his manufactories and store-houses covered an area of ten acres of flooring. "Nor was this wonderful increase in his business the only remarkable feature. There was a corresponding advance in utilizing the whole of the rattan, so that nothing was lost. From a comparatively small jobbing trade in an article at that time of little value, he advanced to the manufacture of reeds for boop skirts, then to cane for seating chairs, then to the manipulation of the waste, and finally to the use of all the small pieces, and even shavings in making various beautiful and useful articles. His original idea was thus realized ; and probably no one ever succeeded, in the face of so many difficulties, and with such a stubborn material as rattan, in so nearly accomplishing his object. " In the year 1851, Mr. Wakefield made his first purchase of real estate in South Reading. In July of that same year, he bought the larger part of the land comprising his home- stead; and in place of the mansion house, which then stood 35 258 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. upon it, he built in 1861 a magnificent residence. About this time, he fully realized that the town was destined to become a very important place. And now he seemed never to have enjoyed a moment so long as he knew that there was a piece of real estate in the vicinity of his house or factories which could be purchased. He would not rest till he had a deed of it in his own name on record. Many of these purchases were of low swamps and meadows, which he cleared, filled up, and drained, making valuable building lots of what had been 'waste land. "While in the spring of 1867 the citizens of South Read- ing were considering the propriety of erecting some suitable memorial to the brave men who had gone from their num- ber to the war of the Rebellion and had perished, Mr. Wakefield came forward, and voluntarily offered to give to the town a lot of land and a cash contribution of #30,000 for a Memorial Hall. In accepting this munificent offer, the town at once decided to change its name, and on the 20th of Januar}^ 1868, by acclamation, voted that it should henceforth be Wakefield. " Mr. Wakefield more than fulfilled his promise to the town. He more than quadrupled the cost of the edifice ; and on Feb. 22, 1871, in the presence of an audience completely filling the new and beautiful hall, he surren- dered the keys of the building to the proper ofiicers of the town. " Although Mr. Wakefield never held a position where elevation was due to political influence, j^et he was a leader in all local enterprises and improvements, and sometimes led the way where few were ready to follow. He was one of the corporators of the Savings Bank, director in Citizens Gas Liglit Company, president aiul largest stockholder in the Ice Company, member of the School Board, of the Agricultural Association, and National Bank of South Reading. "Mr. Wakefield was a man of iron will and resolute pur- pose, combined with great physical endurance. Energy, perseverance, and an indomitable courage in the face of i^lyO PEOMINENO* INDIVIDUALS. 259 aliiiust iusupei'iible obstacles, were his piuniinent cliai'iicter- istics. He had a keen perception, and results that other men reached by hard thought seemed to intuitively come to him. He knew human nature thoroughly, and could read a man at a glance. To those who knew him best, he revealed at times a warm, genial, and tender nature, though to a stranger he might seem distant. He was charitable, giving not only in large sums to public enterprises, but cheering the hearts of the poor with his generous gifts. Many students struggling for an education remember with gratitude his timely aid. As a merchant, he was shrewd, industrious, persistent, and careful in the details of his business. His character and deeds are thus epitomized in the resolutions adopted by his fellow-citizens on the even- ing after his death :"' — " The valuable citizen, the prosperous merchant, the progressive leader in ornamental and architectm'al improvements, the friend and helper of education, the chief promoter of onr local industrial pursuits, our munifi- cent namesake, whose numerous and generous benefactions will remain his enduring memorials." Mr. Wakefield died very suddenly on Sabbath morning, Oct. 26, 1873, at the age of sixty-two years and eight months. Wareen Hubbakd Wilkinson, son of David and Patty (Hubbard) Wilkinson, was born in Marlborough, July 9, 182-4. During his boyhood, besides attending school, he assisted his father in his labors on the farm, and at the early age of ten began to work in the harness-shop, thus following the trade of both his father aud grandfather, and during his minority acquiring a thorough knowledge of the business, by which mainly he has attained the success he has enjoyed in his later years. At the age of twenty-three, he became a partner with his father, and continued the harness business in Marlborough until 1853, supplying not only the home-demand, but also stores in Keene, Peterboro, and Greenfield, Mass. 2-60 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. Removing to Greenfield in 1853, he continued in business there six years, wlien he removed to Springfield, INlass., which has since hevn his home. There he was endeavor- ing to build up a trade, when the threatening clouds of approaching civil war unsettled all plans and prospects of commercial enterprise. During the winter of 1860, how- ever, Mr. Wilkinson received an order for military work from the quartermaster of the State of Connecticut, which being satisfactorily filled led to his receiving similar orders from other States and from the United States Government for the manufacture of military leather goods of various kinds during the continuation of the war. For many of these, he furnished improved patterns, which were adopted and are still used in the service. During the 1-ast three years, he has furnished large quantities of goods for foreign countries, amounting to about eighty thousand dollars annually. Since 1869, Mr. Wilkinson has been engaged in the manufacture of horse blankets, first at Marlborough, then at Winchendon, Mass. ; and, as his business increased, he removed the work to Holyoke, Mass., where he now has one of the largest mills of the kind in the country, the annual production of which amounts to about two hundred thou- sand dollars. In these different manufacturing enterprises, employment is furnished to more than three hundred persons. In the midst of these various business interests, he has not, however, forgotten his native town, but has again in- vested in its manufacturing interests. Nor is he unmindful of the church where he first professed his faith in Christ, and to which he still belongs, as shown by his various gifts as its needs have seemed to require. Mr. Wilkinson married first Almira, daughter of Capt. Asa Frost of Marlborough. She died in 1874. He has since married Emily J., daughter of James Brown of Brim- field, Mass. Hon. RuFUS S. Frost, son of Josepli and Lucy (Wheeler) PROlSriNEKT INDrVIDUALS. 261 Frost, was born in Marlborough, July 18, 1826. His father died when he was about four years of age. His widowed mother moved to Boston with her children, less than three years afterwards. lie received liis education mostly at the public schools in Boston, and at the academy in Newton. At twelve years of age, he went into the dry goods store of Messrs. J. H. & J. Osgood, where he remained until he was twenty-one, when he became a partner of J. H. Os- good, which mutually pleasant relationship was continued for five years. Similar business connections were subse- quently formed with two other firms for shorter periods. After these, he became the head of his own business-house in 1866, taking younger partners as the exigencies of the case demanded ; and with these he is still associated. In his mercantile as well as in his manufacturing inter- ests, both of which have been large, Mr. Frost has always regarded himself as particularly favored in the honorable business-standing and high-toned moral character of the men with whom he has been and is still connected. During the lapse of thirty years since he began his active business-life, there have been the usual ebbs and floods of reverses and successes, through which he has successfully passed ; not only without failure or compromise, but with- out a spot or blemish upon his reputation as a thoroughly honest, upright, fair, and gentlemanly business-man. At the age of twenty-one, he married Miss Ellen Maria Hubbard of Chelsea. She died Feb. 28, 1878; and he married June 18, 1879, Mrs. Catharine Emily Willard of Tioga, Penn. Mr. Frost left Boston when he was fourteen years old to reside in Chelsea, then a rapidly growing village of seven- teen hundred inhabitants. He grew up with it, and took a lively interest in its development. After it became a city, he was twice elected its mayor — 1867 and 1868 — with great unanimity, and was strongly urged to continue longer in that office. In 1871 and 1872, he served as State Sena- tor. In 1873 and 1874, he was a member of the Governor's Council. In these various civic relations, Mr. Frost acquit- 262 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. ted himself with great credit, and to tlie entire satisfaction of his constituency. Mr. Frost indulged tlie Christian's hope, and united with the Salem Church, Boston, when fourteen years old. Sept. 20, 1841, the First Congregational of Chelsea was organ- ized, of which he was one of the original forty-one members. He at once identified himself with the choir, with the Sab- bath school, and with all the various activities and benevo- lences of the church. For a long time he led the choir and played the organ. He superintended the Sabbath school for years, until his health compelled his resignation. He was always ready to take part in the social meetings, and discharge any and all his church and parochial obligations. Naturally of a cheerful and hopeful temperament, which Christian assurance necessarily intensifies and adorns, Mv. Frost has always been and is a good neighbor, a warm and welcome friend, a genial companion, and a safe pattern and counsellor to every young man. The citizens of his native town do not need to be told of his lively interest in all their public affairs. He early secured the old family homestead for his summer residence. He has aided the churches by contributions, and by sending at his own expense ministers for holding especial religious services. He gave a beautiful organ to the Congregational Church, where he worships when in town. The gift of a town library is a monument both to his generosity and to his good judgment as to the best methods of interesting and educating, and so elevating, such a community. William H. Greenwood, youngest son of Asa and Lucy Mason (Evans) Greenwood, was born in Dublin, March 27, 1832. He removed to Marlborough with his parents, work- ing on the various public works in which his father was engaged till 1850, when he entered Norwich University, Norwich, Vt., graduating in 1852. The same fall he went west to Illinois, and began as civil engineer on the line of the Central Military Tract (tract of land) Railroad (after- wards tlie Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad,) on PROMINENT INDIVrDUALS. 263 the 23d of November, 1852. He remained with said com- pany until tlie road was completed, and ran on the train for sometime. He then went to work for the American Cen- tral Railroad as §,ssistant engineer, and was with that interest until the beginning of the war. He was married. May 19, 1857, to Evaline D. Knight of Dummerston, Vt. He enlisted in the Fifty-first Regiment of Illinois infan- try in 1861, and was commissioned first lieutenant of Company H. He remained with the regiment but a short time, though he retained his commission, being detailed as a topographical engineer at department head-quarters. At various times, as topographical engineer, he reported to Gens. Grant, Rosecrans, Thomas, McPherson, Stanley, and other general officers. He was aide-de-camp to Gen. D. S. Stanley for some time, and was appointed assistant inspec- tor-general of the Fourth Army Corps, a part of the army of the Cumberland, in July, 1864, which position he held to the close of the war. He was mustered out in Texas, and was retained by Gen. Sheridan to rebuild the railroad, de- stroyed by the rebel Gen. McGruder, from Port Lavaca to Victoria in Texas. In April, 1866, he returned to Ver- mont, remaining there only a month, when he again went West, and was employed on the engineer corps of the Union Pacific Railway, Eastern Division, afterwards known as the Kansas Pacific. He was appointed chief engineer of this road in 1867, which position he held up to 1870. In the winter of 1867-68, he took charge of a survc}^ for this compau}^ through to San Francisco on the thirty-second and tliirty-fifth parallels^ and advised the adopting of the Cimaron, thirty-fifth parallel, and Tahatchpe Pass route. While chief engineer of this road, he constructed one hun- dred and fifty miles of railroad in one hundred working days, and the last day they laid ten and one quarter miles of track in less than ten hours, which was the largest amount ever laid up to that time, and has never been exceeded up to the date of 1876. During liis surveys across the Plains, he had several en- counters with the Indians during tlieir raids in 1867, 1868, 264 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. and 1869, and endured hardsliips from cold and hunger which few men have ever experienced. While with this road, he was also consulting engineer of the Denver Pacific Railroad. In 1870, he made the first general report made in this country in favor of a narrow gauge (three feet) railroad, and was appointed general manager of construction of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad of Colorado. On the com- pletion of the first division of said road, he was ajDpointed general superintendent of the same, and remained with the road until the track was laid to Canon City, one hundred and sixty-five miles. In 1872, in company with Gen. W. S. Rosecrans, Gen. W. J. Palmer, and others, he went to Mexico to construct a national railroad in that country. While on the Mexican national road, he visited England and the Continent, to inform himself as to the best base of supplies for that interest. Failing to get the proper con- cessions from the Mexican government, he returned to the United States, and established himself as a civil engineer in New York. In May, 1878, he took charge of the construction of the Pueblo and Arkansas Valley Railroad for the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad Company, through the Grand Canon and up the valley of the Arkansas River. In March, 1879, he took charge of the Marion and McPlier- son Railroad, which was the last public work with which he was connected, up to the writing of this historj^ Deacon Abel Baker was a son of Bezeleel and Abigail (Wood) Baker of Marlborough, and was born A})ril 8, 1797. Like most lads in this town at that early day, he was brought up on a farm, and inured to almost all kinds of manual labor. He possessed a good constitution, was ath- letic and energetic, and seldom failed to accomplish the object of his desire. His educational advantages were mainly limited to the district school, which at that period was much less cfifioicnt than now. These advantages, how- ever, were vvell improved ; and he became one of the best PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS. 265 and most adviiiiced scholars in his district. Having mas- tered the branches taught in tlie district school, he was sent to an academy in New Salem, Mass., where he studied one term, and then commenced teaching. For several years, he taught school in the winter, and assisted his father on the farm in the summer. As a teacher, he was very success- ful, and his services were sought b}^ the best and most desirable school districts. He married April 18, 1821, and located upon a farm in the adjoining town of Troy, and devoted his attention to agriculture. His admirable qualities of head and heart were soon recognized by his fellow-citizens, and he became one of the leading men of the town. His sound judgment, practical wisdom, and general intelligence fitted him for any position in the community ; and he was consequently elected at different times to almost all the civil offices in the town. He served the town some fifteen years as select- man, — the most of the time as chairman of the board, — and represented it in the Legislature of the State in the years 1840-42. In all the public positions he was called to fill, he was faithful and honest, and none of his constituents ever had reason to feel that they had misplaced their confidence. He did a large amount of business in the settlement of estates. His ability and familiarity with the law fitted him for the transaction of this kind of business, and for many years his services in this line were in constant demand. The crowning excellence of Deacon Baker's life, however, is to be found in his devotion to the service of his divine Master and in his noble Christian character. He experi- enced religion in early life, and united with the Congrega- tional Church, of which he was ever afterwards a worthy, active, and honored member. Through the trying period in the early history of the little church in Troy, he was one of the few who remained steadfast in the Congregational faith ; and through his and his co-laborers' efforts, under the divine blessing, the church lived and prospered. Soon after 36 266 HISTORY OF MARLBOHOUGH. he became a member of the church, he was chosen a deacon, and lield and honored this office during the remainder of his life. As an officer in the church, he was vigilant and faitliful, watching over its members and laboring to promote their spiritual welfare. He was honored by all classes, and looked up to as a faithful friend, a wise counsellor, and an exemplary Christian. After a long and useful life, he died, vSept. 26, 1878, calmly, and in the full assurance of a glo- rious immortality. CHAPTER XIV. MISCELLANEOUS. MoxADNOCK Mountain. — Post-Offices. — Libkaeies. — Odd Fellows. — CeMETEKIES. — MORTUABY KeCORD. — PERSONS OVER EIGHTY, January 1, 1880. — Town Officers. — Governor VoTfe. — Mirriam Newton's Diary. — Pauperism. — Abatement of Taxes. — Wild Animals. — Alexander Fish's Ear. — Anecdotes. MONADNOCK MOUNTAIN. Although the line of the town of Marlborongh is at the foot of the grand Monadnock on the west side, yet, it being so situated that no other town can have access to it without passing througli Marlborough, unless the ascent be made om some other side, it would seem that the History of Marlbor- ough should give, at least, a description of that part of the mountain which has been looking down upon the town since its settlement. Formerly, a large portion of it was covered with a thick kind of under-brush, and some quite large timber which extended far up the sides, giving the mountain a very different appearance from what it now presents. But in the year 1800, after a very severe drouth, the mountain was on fire for several weeks, and the west side was nearly all burned over. The fire was followed by a strong wind ; and the timber was hurled in all direc- tions, and for years afterwards the large timber lay just as it fell. The saplings were, however, soon rotten, and the bald rocks were visible all over the mountain. The best way of ascent was thougjit to be on the westerly 268 HISTOKY OF MARLBOKOUGH. side, until 1850 or 1855, when the Mountain House was built ; and the United States Coast Surveyors constructed a new road to the top from the south side. After the settlement of the towns in the vicinity of the mountain, during the time that the wolves were on the lookout for mutton,^ and were very destructive among the sheep, it was thought it afforded a secure shelter for them ; and at three difff rent times the inhabitants in the vicinity on all sides, by a general agreement, surrounded it and com- menced a general hunt, which continued from the foot to the top. But tliese hunts were not very successful. Sometimes a stra}" bear or wolf was killed, but there were so many hiding-places it was difficult to dislodge them. Some time after the American War, a few chivalrous young men of Marlborough, on some important occasion, undertook to make a bonfire on the top of the mountain, which they intended should be seen for twenty miles. A barrel of tar was carried up in buckets, and every effort was made to illuminate the darkness; but their efforts were not crowned with success. The pathway from the foot of the mountain to the top on the west side was formerly marked by stones, some of which still remain. A little to the south of this path, about half-way up the mountain, is what was called the Rock House. It is a smooth split in a large rock some thirty feet long and eight feet high, with an opening at the north some three feet wide, running to a point at the other end with a flat stone over it, so that several persons can be sheltered by it. Formerly, every person visiting the mountain felt he must not fail of seeing the famous Rock House. The inhabitants living in the vicinity of the mountain are attracted there to secure the large quantities of blue- berries which are found between the ledges in August and September. And, in a fruitful year, the writer has seen them so thick and large that a good picker would secure a ten-quart pail full in two or three hours. MONADNOCK MOUNTAIN. 269 GRAND MONADNOCK. BY J. D. CUEIIOUE. Tiiou who rear'st thy wild, romantic head, Piercing sublime the blue, ethereal sky, — A huge, erratic pile, with igneous bed, — Be thou my theme while I extol thee high ! Abrupt amid her thousand granite hills, New Hampshire proudly claims thee for her own ; But thy bold, awful peak wdth wonder fills The eyes of other sons than hers alone. No State can own thee by exclusive right ; For when the rising sun tips thee with gold, Or, setting, robes thee with effulgent light. Thy splendor dazzles far through space unknown. Tell me if, oft in meditation lost. Thou ponderest not on ages rolled away ; For thou art old and gray and tempest-tossed, And round thy furrowed cheek the lightnings play. Geology, in its research profound, Has traced thy being back through endless time, To when the ocean wave, with murmuring sound. Roared round thy cliffs its melancholy chime. Yes, from the deep, dark caverns of the sea, Volcanic fire hath borne thee high in air, To overlook the stream, the vale, the lea, And evermore to stand majestic there. 1 fancy thou art Nature's monument, Erected to record her mighty deeds, — How from the deep she reai-ed the continent. And scattered o'er its face a million seeds ; How thus she formed a dwelling-place for man, Long years before he drew the vital air ; And decked it, long ere human life began. With wavy trees and fruit and blossoms fair. Thou bearest record, too, of wind and tide, When yet the foamy wave was lashing thee ; For, far above the shrubs upon thy side, The Iceberg's giant footprints still we see. 270 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. But in fond remembrance thou canst turn Back to the later scenes of other days, — When the wigwam, thinly thatched with fern. Cheered the poor Indian seated by its blaze ; When all around thee. Mountain, far and wide. Lay one vast wilderness of leafy shade ; And here the chieftain with liis dusky bride Dwelt along the liillside and the floral glade. But when the " Majiiower " met thy distant view, Alas ! it brought destruction to his home. And the red-man before the pale-face flew, No more his native hills to roam. The forest vanished at the Pilgrim's stroke, And the wild waste was fruitful by his toil ; Where the rude hut sent up its cheering smoke. The corn is waving o'er the loamy soil. Then watched our fathers, struggling hard and long- To plant on fair Columbia's wildwood shore A colony, which, dead, yet lives in song, bedecked with laurels stained with heroes' gore ; And heard the cannon's thundering -peal afar. Charge after charge on Bimker's awful height. When oui" su-es, oppressed, sought redress in \Nar, And many gallant sons fell in the fatal fight. How changed ! The itif ant colony has grown To be a nation of extensive sway ; No monarch ever pressed her lofty throne, And Freedom has her quiet, unmolested way. O proud Monadnock ! thy far-searching eye Looks down upon a thousand happy homes, — Homes of the joyful sons of Liberty, Where despots are unknown, and gladness roams. But Freedom's fane thou art; and on thy toj) The eagle oft, with weary spreading wings. From the high, ethereal realms will drop. And pause awhile midst her wanderings. Upon thy summit, too, thy sons and daughters Oft seek the clieering prospect far and wide Of forest and gTove and silver waters That slow and silent join the distant tide. POST-OFFICES. 271 But thou hast cheer for me when fai* away ; For, when in (h-eams I walk my natiA'c liills, Thy hnage, basking in the sunlight gay, My weary, troubled soul with rapture fills. From the loved spot where passed my youthful days. Thy awful grandness bounds the distant view ; And oft in wonder I have paused to gaze At thy wild beauty of cerulean hue. POST-OFFICES. The first post-office was established in this town Feb. 27, 1823. Previous to this date, the inhabitants received their mail from Keene. Letters coming to that office for those in adjoining towns were advertised in the New Hampshire Sentinel. Those having letters to mail generally left them with Dr. David Carter who handed them to the post-rider who in turn delivered them at the post-office at the end of his route. William Ward was the first postmaster. The post-office was in the building since occupied by David Wilkinson as a harness-shop. The following is a list of the different postmasters at this office, with the date of their appointment : — William Ward, February 27, 1823. Jonah Davis, ' July 4, 1825. Elijah Boyden, July 29, 1833. Abner Boyden, January 3, 1835. Oilman Converse, January 27, 1837. Silas Collester, August 19, 1841. Elijah Boyden, May 16, 1845. Gideon D. Richardson, . December 10, 1852. George W. Garfield, August 8, 1857. Elisha O. Woodward, May 26, 1860. William M. Xason, June 23, 1874. At the time of the reappointment of Elijah Boyden in 1845, the post-office was established in the Stone Store, where it has ever since remained. A post-office was established at Marlborough Depot, 272 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. March 24, 1852, since that time the following gentlemen have held the office of postmaster : — Names. Date of Appointment. Nelson Converse, March 21, 1852. George W. Garfield, Xoveniber 24, 1852. Cyi-us S. Moors, August 3, 1857. Cleon M. Lane, January 23, 1871. Andrew L. Felch, August 7, 1871. Cyrus S. Moors, May 28, 1872. LIBRARIES. Sept. 22, 1795, a number of the citizens of Marlborough met for the purpose of forming themselves into a society to be known as the Marlborough Social Library. At this meeting, Rev. Halloway Fish, Dr. David Carter, Jedediah Tayntor, Phinehas Farrar, 'Esq., and Lieut. Calvin Stone were chosen a committee to draw up a constitution. It was also voted that two dollars be the price of each share in the library. At a subsequent meeting, the committee presented a constitution, which was accepted and adopted. The follow- ing persons became members of the society, only one of whom survives, Rev. Luther Wiswall, of Windhaifi, Me. : — Jedediah Tayntor. Daniel Priest. David Cai'ter. Sinieon Newton. Joseph Frost. Jeremiah Bemis. Hugh Mason. George Farrar. Jonathan Frost. William Banks. John Parkhurst. Kimber Harvey. Isaac Gould. Abijah Tucker. Jonadab Baker. Phinehas Farrar, Jr. Reuben Ward. Charles Ilolman. Isaac Cummings. Amos Cummings. Simon Piper. Benjamin Longley. Eliphalet Stone. John Harvey. Elijah Frost. Persis Sweetser. Calvin Stone. Daniel Goidd, Jr. Jacob Woodward. Daniel Cutting. Shubael Stone. Hezekiah Ilodgkins. Samuel Collins, Phinehas Farrar. LUUlAlllES. 273 Isaac Robbius. Benjaiu'ui Whitney. Levi Gates. William Teuney. John Wiswall. John Lane. Anna Temple. William Lincoln. Elijah Boyden. Nathan Wild. Thomas Temple. Luther Newton. Thaddeus Pavmenter. "John Fitch. Elijah Gates. John Wiswall, Jr. Robert Emerson. Phillips Sweetser, 3d. Robert Worsley. Richard Tozer. ^ Amasa Converse. Nathan- D. Barker. Ephraim K. Frost. Jonas Woodward. James Batcheller. Lovell Porter. Thomas Adams. Charles Ilolmau, Jr. Enoch White. Levi Gates, Jr. John Joslin. Luther Hemenway. Amos Cummings, Jr. Calvin Hastings. Caleb Perrj-. Luke Blodgett. Jonathan Bemis. Al)ner Smith. Abel Baker. Oliver Wright. Asa Hastings. John Buss. William Ward. Calvin Newton. Thomas Tolman. Luther Bemis. Etheel Parmenter. Luther Wiswall. Josejah Woodward. Samuel Joness Among the first books purchased were Belknap's History of New Hampshire, Morse's Geography, Cook's Voyages, Gordon's History of \\\q Revolution, Doddridge's Rise and Progress, Blair's Sermons, Life of Franklin, etc. The library was kept for many years at the house of William Tenney, where S. O. Pope now lives. This place was chosen, no doubt, on account of its being near the meeting-house, as most of the books were exchanged on Sunday, although it was accessible at all times. Whenever it became necessary to purchase books, a tax of from fifty cents to one dollar was assessed upon each share. The library was removed in 1843 to the house of Charles Holman, where Charles H. Thurston now resides. The interest in the library now Ijcgan to decline, and in a few years was given up altogether, and the books divided among 274 HISTORY OF aiARLBOROUGn. the share-holders, some of wliich have been deposited in the Frost Free Library for safe keeping. , FROST FREE LIBRARY. Tn tlie summer of 1865, Hon. Rnfus S. Frost of Clielsea, Mass., made known to the citizens of Marlborough that lie wished to present his native town with a free library, and would do so, whenever the town would provide a suitable place in which to keep it. A meeting of the citizens was held in September, but no definite action was taken in relation to the subject, further than to choose a committee to correspond with Mr. Frost. Tliis committee attended to the duties assigned them, and the followi'ng correspondence took place : — Ma-ri.i?oro', N.H., Sept. 15, 1805. RuFus S. FnosT, Esq.: Dear Sir, — A meeting of tlie citizens of Mavlboi'o' was liolden AVednes- (lay evening to take into consideration the subject of providing a suitaldcs place for the library which, it is understood, you are intending to present to the town. It was not the object of this meeting to take any definite action on the subject, any further tliaii to ascertain more fully the minds of the jieople liere. There was quite a full attendance ; and it was tlie unanimous ojunion of those present that the town will, when the matter is formally laid before them, vote to erect a building either indojicnd- ently or in connection with a town hall. It is not clear in the minds of all that it conforms ^itli your wishes to have a building furnished at the expense of the town. Some think you prefer to erect and present the building as a part of the donation. To leai'U what, if anything, you would have us do, a committee have been appointed to correspond with you, and are instructed to say to you that a ](!gal town-meeting will be called to act upon any proposition you n, CuAiti.KS E. Hougutox, Charles K. Mason, Commillce : Dear Sirs, — Your esteemed favor of the IStli inst. did not reach me o DO > FROST FllEE LIBllARY. 275 till yesterday; and, iu reply, I woidd say that I'or over a year I have ((jii- sidered the plan ol' presenting to my native town a free pul)lic lil)rary, and have appropriated ti\e thonsand dollars for that object, a part of which is to be invested and the income of the same to be expended annually for new books to freshen up the library. This being perpetnal, a proper place for such a library had early occupied my attention. With pride and satisfaction, I have seen the good citizens ol' Marlboro' tax themselves to raise men to carry to a triumphant termination the war thrust upon us by the South. But the Rebellion is now crushed, and, \vith the glorious success of our arms, w'e are left with a large debt and heavy taxation, of which 1 know your patriotic citizens will readily assume their share. Under these circumstances, I could not consent to have any of them feel that their taxes were increased one cent because I had presented the town with a library. It has been suggested to me that a town hall might be built by subscription by some of the citizens (and thus avoid taxation), and that a suitable room in it might be made fire-proof, and the free use of it donated perpetually for the library. But there might be delay in building the town hall, or other difficulties might arise connected with this plan, in which case I should prol)a])ly contract for a suitable building. I am pleased to learn from your letter that the citizens of Marlboro', the friends and associates of my honored parents, and also the playmates of my childliood and friends of later years, take so mucli interest in t-he library. I beg to assiu'e them through j'ou that every year's experience in life makes me value more highly the principles taught me by my parents, and love more tenderly Marlboro', their home and the home of their parents. Truly yours, etc., RUFUS S. FROST. The library building, a handsome, substantial granite structure, having been completed pursuant to the design of Mr. Frost as indicated in the preceding correspondence, and furnislied with books to the number of two thousand volumes, the citizens of the town were formally called upon to meet at three o'clock, Monday afternoon, August 26, 1867, to see if they would vote to accept the proffered gift upon such terms as the donor should dictate. Accordingl}-, at that hour, the library was fdled to overflowing by the old and young of the town. Charles K. Mason, Esq., having been chosen moderator of the meeting, and tlu^ diviiu' l)lcssing- invoked b}- Kev. 276 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROUGH. Iracl Tao-orard, Mv. Frost tlius addressed tlie laroe assera- blage : — Men, women, and cliildren of my native town, the day which I have been anticipating so long has at lengtli arrived ; and it gives me great pleasure to meet you all, and welcome you here. The great number present indicates the interest you tiake in education, which, with religion, must be the foundation of the prosperity of any community. The facts that my paternal and nuiternal ancestors lived here from the first settlement of the town ; that in 1770 my Great-grandfather Frost and Grandfather AA'heeler, with other citizens of the town, signed tlie agreement to opjiose with arms the hostile proceedings of the British; that, when 1 was four years old, my father (whom I well remember) died here, and, with my eldest sister and most of our ancestors, lies in the old graveyard ; that the first six years of my life were spent here, and that I here received at the coimnon school, the Sabbath-school, and from my now sainted mother, the beginning of my education, — these facts have rendered this place very dear to my heart. And, as I ha^■e come back to the home of my boyhood from year to year, with my family, to drink in health and enjoyment from these grand old hills and valleys, and seen these stalwart young men and the beauti- ful young women who are growing up here, I have longed to do some- thing which would add to the attractions of " dear old Marlborough," and prove a real benefit to all her people. It seemed to me that a/ree library would accomplish these results. In the summer of 1805, I made the first piu'chase of books, and have been selecting and adding mitil the present time ; and, in everything connected with the library, I have endeavored to act for the town, without regard to denomination or party. I now oft'er you the property with the following deed : — Know all men by these presents, That I, llufus S. Frost, of Chelsea, in the County of Suffolk and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in consideration of the love and affection which I have to Marlboro', in the County of Cheshire and State of New Hampshire, my native toA\ n, and in the hope of contributing something to the moral and mental im- provement of the present and future inhabitants of said town, do grant, sell, and convey to said town forever the Library Lot and Stone Building thereon, lately erected by me for a rublic Library in said town. Said tract of land is bounded as follows : Beginning on the Depot Boad at tlie north-west corner of land of Wan-en H. Wilkinson, thence northerly on same road to other land of said Wilkinson near the intersection of the roads ; thence easterly on a curve on said Wilkinson's land to the liighway leading to the Brick Church ; thence south-easterly on said highway to a stake in the ground ; thence soutli-westerly on said Wilkin- son's land to a stnkc ill llic urniiud ; ami tliciii'i' soiitlicrly on said Wilk- FlIOST FIM:K LII'.llAUY. 277 inson's land to tlio place of beginning. Togelher \vi(ii all Uie books, linniture, and other personal property in said building, and all the privi- leges and appurtenances belonging to said premises, To have and to hold the same as and for a Public Library free to all the inhabitants of said town forever. This conveyance is made for the uses and purpos(js, and upon the trusts hereinafter expressed, to wit: That the pi'emises shall forever hereafter be used and occupied as a Free Library for the iiduil)itants of said town, and for no other use or purpose whatever; that the town \\ill permit the general management and control of the grounds, building, library, papers, funds, and property to be in the hands of a Board of Trustees, consisting of the Selectmen of the town for the time being, the Clergymen settled or statedly officiating in said town, and three other persons withoiit regard to residence, chosen or appointed as the town may decide from time to time, and for such length of time as the town shall determine, not less than three years: which Board of Trustees are to choose a secretary, and from time to time make all needful rules, reg- ulations, and by-laws for the management of the library and its property. All books hereafter pm-chased, or received by gift or otherwise for the library, are to be examined by the Trustees or some of them, and, if ob- jected to in writing as unfit for the library by any one or more of the Trustees, the book-is not to be admitted into the library, but the objec- tion made is to be recorded by the secretary. The town is to see that the property is protected from encroachment and trespass, and that the three Trustees are chosen or appointed, and that the library and all funds gi\eu for the purposes of the library are used according to the intention of the donor, under the active management of the Board of Trustees. Ellen H. Frost, wife of the said Rufus S. Frost, hereby releases all her claim to dower, and other claim to the premises. Witness our hands and seals this twenty-sixth day of August, A.D. 16U7. RUFUS S. FROST. ELLEN H. FROST, [l.s.] Signed, sealed, and delivered in presence of WM. P. WHEELER. VINCENT D. LENT. TiiK State of New H.VMrsinnK, | Cheshiue Co., Aug. *20, 1857. ) Personally appeared Rufus S. Frost, and acknowledged the foregoing instrument to be his free act and deed. Before me, WM. P. WHEELER, Justice of the Peace. " Designing that the taxes of no citizen should be increased because of this gilt, 1 have also laid aside live thousand dollars, the principtil to 278 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROUGH, reiiKiin forever intact, tlic iiitorest to bo jmid ainuKilly to the Trustees to be vised to freshen and iierpetuate the libiai v. And 1 have ah-eady appointed a trnstee to pay over tlie five tlioiisand dollars to the town at my decease." The town having t'onnally voted to accept the gift upon the conditions specified, Mr. Frost, addressing Rev. II. P. Osgood of the Board of Trustees, spoke as follows : — My dkau Sik, — The town of Marlborough, by the ^ote just juissed accepting the " Fi-ee Library " upon the conditions specitied in the deed, has constituted you one of its Trustees ; and I therefore transfer to you the kej-s, and joyfully bid God-speed to the work of education and eleva- tion which I trust the library will perform. But I cannot let them pass from my hands without expressing my gratitude to our heavenly Father that no loss of life or limb has been experienced in the construction of the building. I wnsh also to expi-ess my thanks to the builder, Jonathan Jones, Esq., and his assistants, for the substantial manner in which they have accomplished their work ; to Samuel Crossfield, ICsq., and his assist- ants, for the workmanlike finish which they have given to the interior; to Warren H. Wilkinson, Esq., for assisting in arranging the boundaries of the land; and to the citizens who have kindl}' assisted in grading the library-lot. And, sir, hoping that you and your associates may enjoy dispensing the privileges of the library as much as I have enjoyed in preparing them, I herewith deliver you the keys. j\Ir. Osgood, receiving the keys in behalf of the town, responded to the address of Mr. Frost, expressing the pro- found gratitude of the people of Marlborough to him for the inestimable benefit which, in the exercise of a gener- osity so discriminating and provident, he had conferred upon them. At the close of Mr. Osgood's address, an appropriate and fervent dedicatory prayer was offered by Rev. (liles layman, after which the following resolutions were reported by Dr. S. A. Richardson : — Resolved, Tluxt the Hon. llufus S. Frost, in the gift of a Library so anqil(! in tlie number of volumes and so rich in varied literature, with a provision for so large additions from year to year, and in the erection of so goodly a structure for its accommodation, shows himself a most worthy son of Marlborough, and merits the warm and lasting gratitude of evor\ citizen of the town. Resolved, That tlie town hereby tender to Mr. Frost, and plac'(> upon FKOST VllVA<: I.IIUIAIIY. 270 record, their .siucxire ami hearty thanks for liis so lilxTal and desirable gift. Rexolveri That we will perpotnate the remembrance of this day and its pleasant and profitable associations by giving to this bnilding and Li-l)rary the name of Frost, and it shall be designated as Fito.s r FitKK lyllJUAKY. After appropriate remarks by Dr. Richardson, Hon. AVill- iam P. Wheeler of Keene, and Rev. Mr. Laws, these reso- hitions Avcre unanimously adopted. This action was followed by the recitation, in a beautiful and impressive manner, of a neat little poem by Miss Ida Woodward, addressed to Mr. Frost, in behalf of the young- folks; and the exercises at the library closed by a bene- diction. A procession was then formed, headed by the Keene lirass Band, and marched to the residence of Mr. Samuel Allison, on whose grounds was spread a most bountiful and tastefull}'- arranged collation provided by the ladies of jNIarl- borough. The collation was followed by pertinent senti- ments and animated speeches, interspersed with appropriate music. In the evening, many citizens having assembled at the residence of Mr. Frost, fireworks were displayed and a collation served. Impromptu bonfires sprung up on various eminences throughout the town, expressive of the gratified and iu1)ilant feelings of the people ; and so, merrily and hap- pily, closed a day which will ever form a bright spot in the annals of Marlborough. In Novemljer, Elijah I>oyden, Esq., having been cliosen librarian, the library was open to the public. i\lr. IJoyden held the office until August, 1872, when he resigned ; and Cliarles A. Bemis was chosen, and holds the position at the present time. Additions have been made to the books from .time to time, and they now number over three thousand volumes. 280 HISTORY OF MAllLBOUOUGir. ODDFELLOWS:* PAQUOIG LODGE, No. 50, I.O.O.F. In tlie year 1868, five Odd Fellows residing in jMarlbor- ough, and members of Beaver Brook Lodge in Keeiie, petitioned to the Grand Lodge of NeAv Hampshire for a charter to institute a new lodge in Marlborough, to be called Paqnoig Lodge. A charter was granted, and the lodge was numbered 50, of the Order in the State. And on the loth of January, 1869, the Most Worthy Grand Master, Charles H. Brown, assisted by brothers of Beaver Brook Lodge, instituted Paquoig Lodge, with the following charter mem- bers : — Nelson Converse. Charles Buss. Charles O. Whitney. Luther G. Beniis. George Tilden. Solon W. Stone. William Collins. Charles Stay. Martin J. Buss. F. R. Thurston. E. O. Woodward. James Knowlton. These twelve Odd Fellows Avere at the time nu'mljers of Beaver Brook Lodge, and withdrew to institute the ne"\ lodge in Marlborough, they all living i-n Marlborough at that time. Odd Fellowship in Marlborough dates back to the yeal 1850. Col. Nelson Converse joined Iknivcr Brook Lodge ii that year ; and soon after Asa Maynard, F. R. Thurston] L. N. Converse, L. Hemenwaj^ and Horace Bucklin oi Marlborough joined the lodge at Keene. But the war ol the Rebellion soon came on, and Odd Fellowship was nearlj dead in this section of the State, Beaver Brook Lodgl coming very near giving up its charter. After the close o| the war, the Order commenced to grow with a new interest and these other charter members joined the Order at Keen( The first lodge of Odd Fellows in New Hampshire waj Granite Lodge, No. 1, at Nashua, instituted Sept. 11, 184? The first lodge in the United States was AVasliington Lodge instituted in Baltimore, Aj^ril 26, 1819. ♦Sketch fmuisbed by Luther Hemenway,JEsq. ODD FELLOWS. 281 Till' lirsl ol'licers of Pac^uoig Lodge, wluj were installed J;ui. 13, 1869, were : N.G., Nelson Converse ; V.G., WiU- itim Collins; R.S., Lntlier G. Bemis ; P.S., George F. Buss; T., James Knowlton ; W., Charles Buss; C, Charles O. Whitney ; I.G., Charles Sta^y ; R.S. to N.G., George Smith ; L.S. t.o"^N.G., L. Hemenway; R.S. to V.G., E. O. Wood- ward; L.S. to V.G., M. D. Gay; R.S.S., George Tilden; L.S.S., Solon W. Stone ; P.G., F. R. Thurston ; Rev. H. P. Osgood acting as chaplain, who was succeeded before tlie close of the term by Rev. D. S. Dexter. The lodge first met, and was instituted in the hall over the Universalist Church, which had been secured by a lease for the term of five years. The hall had previously been altered and fitted up with tAvo anterooms at an expense of some four hundred and forty dollars, which was assumed and paid by the lodge. The hall for the first year was used by the societ}^ of Good Templers, they hiring it of the lodge. The lodge continued to hold its meetings in this hall until the first of April, 1875. At the expiration of the lease of the hall for five years, and as an effort to obtain a new lease for another term of years at a satisfactory price failed, the lodge decided to see if some other place could not be procured for their use. Not finding a suitable one, the lodge voted to build a hall that would be better arranged to meet their wants. The lodge first bought Rev. S. Law's house; but, after some investigation as to expense in building on that lot, they concluded to sell it, and did so at some advance over what they paid. On Sept. 7, 1874, the lodge, through a committee consisting of Charles O. Whitney, James Knowl- ton, and Nelson Converse, bought of Mr. E. O. Woodward the vacant lot of land north of the Stone Store; also a small piece adjoining, of E. Fitch. The lodge then chose A. A. Adams, C. O. Whitney, James Knowlton, L. Hemenway, and C. H. Thurston a building committee to proceed at once to build on the Jiewly acquired land the present ODD FELLOWS' BULLDLNG. 38 282 HISTOKY OF MARLBOROUGH. The stone inasonrv, (lig'g'ino- the celhir, and fitting up the grounds, were done by J. & T^. Knowlton. The wood-work, chimneys, phistering, and painting were contracted to and completed by A. R. & E. S. Foster of Keene. The buikl- ing is of wood above the basement (which is of stone), thirty-fonr feet by fifty feet, tAvo stories with a French roof. The first floor is finished and occupied as two stores ; the second, a jeweller's store, barber's shop, and a tenement for one family ; and the third story is finished and fitted up for a hall for the lodge with tAvo good-sized anterooms. On the first of April, 1875, the hall was completed, and the lodge moved in, and held its fii'st meeting of the month in their new hall ; and on the second day of June next it was dedicated according to the usages and work of the Order, the Most Worthy Grand ^Master, Samuel J. Osgood, presiding, assisted by the officers of the Grand Lodge and brothers from J\Ianchester, Peterboro', and Keene. The lodge continued to grow and increase from the first twelve charter members till it numbered in three years overj fifty, and has continued to number from fifty to sixty mem- bers up to the present time. The following is a list of the Noble Grands, or the highest] office in the lodge, each serving one term of six months : 18G9.— Nelson Converse, William Collins. 1870.— Charles Buss, Charles O. Whitney. 1871.— George F. Buss, Charles A. Howard. 187*2. — Luke Knowlton, Jr., Luther G. Beuiis. 1873. — Luther Henienway, James Knowlton. 1871.— A. A. Adams, INLason L. White. 187.5. — George L. Fairbanks, Alvin K. Martin. 1S7G.— Bradley E. Wright, Oren 8. Adams. 1877. — Ivory E. Gates, S. Emerson Partridge. 1878. — Charles Stay, Williaiii W. Ap[ilin. CEMETERIES. No sooner had the pioncci' inlialjitants of Marlborough I become permanently settled, than they, knowing the uncer- tainty of life and the certainty of death, began to look for CEMETERIES. 283 a proper place iii which to bury their dead. Accordingly, ill 1707, a eoiiiniittee of rive men was chosen, " to iix a place for a lUirying Yard, viz: Beiijaniin Tucker, Daniel Goode- now, William I>arker, Joseph Collins, and Thomas Riggs." lint it seems this committee failed to perform the duties assigned them ; for at a meeting in January, 1770, this com- mittee was dismissed, and it was voted that " Benjamin Tueker, Joseph Collins, and David Warren be a committee to loock out a Buring place." The spot selected by this committee was the one now occupied by the old cemetery at tlie middle of the town. This was probably chosen on account of its adjoining the lot on which the meeting-house was to be built ; for in those days it was customary to locate the burying-yard as near the meeting-house as it could be with propriety. We have no record when the rirst death occurred in the township ; but the earliest date we have of one is about 1772, when a child of Jonathan Shaw" died, and was buried only a short distance from Mr. Shaw's house. In the course of a few years, other persons who died in that neighborliood were interred there ; but, as no gravestones were ever erected to their memory, we have no means of knowing who they were. The custom of burying the dead on the home farm pre- vailed to a considerable extent among the early settlers, owing to the fact that the roads were but little better than bridle-paths through the woods, and there was no way in which to convey dead bodies, except to carry them on the clumsy, old-fashioned bier. Thus we find graves scattered here and there on our hillsides, the last resting-place of many who have helped form and mould into shape the institutions of this town. Often the plough in the hands of some thoughtless proprietor has levelled these little mounds, so that tlieir exact locality can no longer be pointed out. There is no tradition to tell us who was the first person interred in the old burying-yard, and there are no grave- stones which date back earlier than 1777, the first being that of an infant son of Col. Richard and Mrs. S^^bil Roberts, 284 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. which bears the date, ol' April 2o, 1777. Tiiere were also tAVo ehildreii of Ebeiiezer and Sarah Rhodes, that died tlie same year. A little to the right of the centre of the yard is a stone with the following inscription : " Mrs. Snbniit Sanderson, wife of Lieut. Colnian Sanderson, died Oct. 9, 1781, aged twenty-eight years.'" This we are informed was the lirst adult person buried in the yard. In 1785, William Barker, the first settler of the town, deeded to the town one acre of land to be used as a public burying-ground. This yard is located in the north part of Troy village, falling within the limits of that town at its incorporation in 1815. In 1793, Daniel Emerson gave the town one-half acre of land in the north part of the town for a " burying-place." And JNIr. Emerson, in order, as it would seem, to perpetuate the memor}' of this gift, ordered to be placed on his grave- stone the following epitaph: — " This land I cleared is now my grave. Think well, my friends, how you behave." Tlie first person interred ill this yard, it is said, was John Lewis, who died Feb. 21, 1793. This yard has been used chiefly by the inhabitants of the north part of the town and those residing in the north-west part of Dublin, now West Harrisville. The burying-ground near i\lr. Esty's was set apart for that 'purpose at an early date. The first person interred there was Mary, wife of John Harvey, Jr., who died in 1785. An infant child of John and Mary Harvey was also buried there about the same time. This yard is now chiefly used for the burial of strangers and paupers. Graniteville Cemeteev was laid out in the year 1852 by Asa Greenwood Avho foreseeing that a new cemetery; would soon ])e needed selected the site, laid out, and fenced ] the same with a good substantial iron fence. The ground was divided into sixt^'-four lots which were sold at twelve^ dollars per Int. CEMETERIES. 285 This cemetery was consecrated Oct. 20, 1852. Tlie fol- lowing is a copy of a hymn written for the occasion by Miss A. A. Morton : — -» ^ HYMN. We consecrate this chosen spot For chambers of repose, Where human forms naay rest, nor feel Tlie weight of liiiman woes. No gloomy fear, no chilling dread, Shall haunt this calm retreat. But forms imbued with life and hope SluiU here our presence greet. Affection's hand around the grave Shall gather trees and flowers, To beautify and cheer the place Through all save wintry hours. Here would we bring our cherished dead. And lay them 'neath the sod, While Faith's sweet voice says, " Dust to dust, The sj)irit to its God." Here we would lie when Death's pale hand Life's silver cord has riven. And opened for our waiting souls The shining gates of heaven. Our Father, bless this sacred rite. Impart thy genial grace, And jS.t us for that better land Where is no burial-place. Sarah, daughter of Nelson and Sally (Jones) Converse, who died April 26, 1853, was the first person buried in this cemetery. So rapidly have the lots been taken up that within a few years two additions have been made to the original yard. The wliole is finely arranged, and presents an attractive appearance. Much credit is due to the ladies who have formed a society for the j)urpose of keeping this cemetery in repair. In this work, they are aided by a por- tion of the interest accruing from two hundred dollars bequeathed to the town by the late Jedediah T. Collins for the purpose of keeping the four cemeteries in repair. 286 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. SEXTONS. Since 1778, the following persons have served as sex- tons : — ■ William Tennej-, Jr. Oliver Wright. ■ Oliver Wright. • William Teniiey, Jr. • William Tenney, Jr. Elias Hemeuway. •Elias Ilemenway. William Tenney, Jv. ■ Elias Hemenway. - William Tenney, Jr. Elias Hemenway. William Teuney. Elias Hemenway. - William Tenney. Elias Hemenway. ■ Ebenezer Hemenway. William Tenney. ■ William Tenney. Elias Hemenway. ■ AVilliam Teuney. Elias Hemenway. - William Tenney. Joseph Cutting. Ebenezer Hemenway. ■ William Tenney. Luke Harris. Ebenezer Hemenway. - AVilliam Tenney, Jr. Luke Harris. Ebenezer Hemenway. - AVilliam Tenney. Ebenezer Hemenway. - William Tenney, Jr. Ebenezer Hemenway. -John Lane. Daniel P^merson, Jr. - AVilliam Tenney, Jr. Daniel Emerson, Jr. -Georjie Lane. 1778.- — John Felton. 1800. Richard Tozer. 1801. 1780.- — John Felton. 1802. Richard Roberts. 1803. 1781.- — John Felton. Richard Tozer. 1804. 1782.- — John Felton. 1805. 1783.- — John Felton. Richard Roberts. 1800. 1784.- — Richard Tozer. 1807. 1785.- — Richard Tozer. 1786.- — Richard Tozer. John Felton. 1808. 1787.- — Richard Tozer. Coleman Sanderson. 1809. 1788.- — Richard Tozer. Ebenezer . 1810. 1789.- — Richard Tozer. Coleman Sanderson. 1811. 1790.- — Coleman Sanderson. Richard Tozer. 1812. 1791.- — Richard Tozer. James Dean. 1813. 1702.- - Richard Tozer. 1793.- — Richard Tozer. AVilliam Barker. Daniel Cummings. 1814. 1791.- — Richard Tozer. Daniel .Emerson. Ebenezer Bacon. 1815. 1795.- — Richard Tozer. Ebenezer Bacon. 1810. Ebenezer Hemenway. 1817. 1796.- — Ebenezer Bacon. Richard Tozer. 1818. Daniel Emerson. 1797.- . 1819, 1798.- — AVilliam Tenney, Jr. 1799.- — WiUiam Tenney, Jr. 1820. SEXTONS. 287 1820. — Daiiit'l Emerson, Jr. Elijah Gates. 1821.— George H. Lane. Daniel Emerson, Jr. Elijah Gates. 1822.— George H. Lane. Daniel Emerson, Jr. Levi Thatcher. 1823.— Luke Blotlgett. Daniel Emerson, Jr. Levi Thatcher. 182L— Lnke Blodgett. Winsor Gates. Daniel Emerson, Jr. 1825.— Luke Blodgett. Levi Thatcher. Daniel Emerson, Jr. 182G.— Luke Blodgett. Levi Thatcher. Daniel Emerson. 1827.- Lnke Blodgett. Levi Thatcher. Daniel Emerson, Jr. 1828.— Levi Thatcher. Silas McColester. Lnke Blodgett. 1829.— Luke Blodgett. Le\d Thatcher. Daniel Emerson, Jr. 1830.— Luke Blodgett. Levi Thatcher. Daniel Emerson, Jr. 1831.— Luke Blodgett. Levi Thatcher. Daniel Emerson. 1832.— Luke Blodgett. Levi Thatcher. Daniel Emerson. 1833. — William Tenney. Levi Thatcher. Daniel Emerson. 1831.— Luke Blodgett. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. J835.— Luke Blodgett. 183.').— Levi 'I'halcluT. Jeremiah Herrick. 1830. — Luther Ilemenvvay. Charles Gilbert. Jeremiah Herrick. 1837. — Luther Hemenway. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1838. — Luther Hemenway. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1839.— Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1840. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 184:1. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1842.— Emery Cudworth. ■ Levi Thatcher. Thorley CoUester. 1843. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1844. — Josiah Woodward. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1845. — Josiah Woodwai"d. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1840. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1847. — Emery Ciidwortli. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1848. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1849. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. Jeremiah Herrick. 1850.— John 'SI. Davis, 288 HISTORY OF MARLBOROtJGH. 1850.— Levi Tliatcher. 1839.- Jeremiah Herrick. 1851.— Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. 18(50. Jeremiah Herrick. 1852. — Emery Cnchvorth. Levi Thatcher. 186 I.- Darius Richardtson. 1853. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. 1802.- Jeremiah Herrick. 1854.— Emery Cudworth. 1863.- Levi Thatcher. Darius Richardson. 1864.- 1855. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. 1865.- Darius Richardson. 1856.— Emery Cudworth. 1866.- Darius Richardson. Levi Thatcher. 1867.- 18.57. — Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. 1868.- Darius Richardson. 1858. — Aaron Stone. Darius Richardson. -Luke Blodgett. Levi Thatcher. Darius Richardson. ■ Emery Cudworth. Levi Thatcher. Darius Richardson. Darius Richardson. Levi Thatcher. Benjamin Whitney. - Jairus Collins. Darius Richardson. - Jairus Collins. Darius Richardson. Jairus Collins. Darius Richardson. -Jairus Collins. Darius Richardson. Jairus Collins. Darius Richardson. -Jairus Collins. Darius Richai'dson. - Jarius Collins, who lias held the office from that time to the present. Mortuary Record. — A record of deaths was kept by Rev. Halloway Fish and his successors, from Jan. 1, 1793, to Jan. 1, 18-11 ; and from that date up to the present time by Jairus Collins, Esq. And from these sources we learn that up to Jan. 1, 1880, there have been twelve hun- dred and sixty-six deaths. Year. No. 1794, . . 12 1795, . . 9 1796, . . 21 1797, . . 17 1798, . . 4 1799, . . 12 1800, . . 9 1801, . . 12 1802, . . 7 1803, . . 9 Year. J^o. 1804, ... 15 1805, 14 1806, 17 1807, 12 1808, 15 1809, 14 1810, 10 1811, 11 1812, 9 1813, 16 Year. No. ISU, . . . 25 181.0, 19 ISIG, 16 1817, 15 1818, 8 1819, 8 1820, 14 1821, 13 1822, 16 1823, 14 MOUTl-AUY RECORD. 280 Year. iVb. Year. No. Year. No. 1824, . . . 12 1843, . . 18 1862, . . 17 1825, . . . 13 1844, . . . 7 1863, . . 88 1826, . . . 13 1845, . . 18 1864, . . 25 1827, . . . 14 1846, . . 9 1865, . . 21 1828, . . . 13 1847, . . 11 1866, . . 14 1829, . . . 13 1848, . . 9 1867, . . 19 18;]0, . 7 1849, . . 20 1868, . . 18 1831, . . . 13 1850, . . 8 1869, . . 19 18:52, . . . 8 1851, . . 16 1870, . . 11 18:5:3, . . . 9 1852, . . 15 1871, . . 18 18:51. . 7 1853, . . 11 1872, . . 19 18:3."), . . . 11 1854, . . 28 187:3, . . 20 18:3(5, . . . 9 1855, . . 8 1874, . . 13 18:37, . . . 23 1856. . . 17 1875, . . 23 18:38, . . . 12 1857, . . 14 1876, . . 18 18:39, . . . 17 1858, . . 11 1877, . . 19 1840, . . . 18 1859, . . 18 1878, . . 17 1841, . . . 14 1860, . . 14 1879, . . 30 1842, . . . 18 1861, . . 23 From the following record, we learn that the number of persons dying in this town since Nov. 2-4, 1808, eighty or more years of age, has been one hnndred and thirty-two ; above eighty-five, sixty-eight ; above ninety, twenty -eight ; and above ninety-five, eight : — Xov. 24, 1808, Josiah Favrar, 87 Ft'l>. 10, 1810, Hannah Farrar, widow of Josiah Farrar 87 ]May 25. 1811, Ephraim Root,- Esq., 85 Xov. 3, 1815, Israel Kichardson, 87 Jan. 2:5. 1816. ISIrs. Parkhurst, « . 80 :\larcli 21, 1816, Widow ^Vliite, 84 F.'h. 9, 1817, Eliphalet Stone, 82 ]\Iay '.). 1817, Eichard Tozer, 84 Mai-oh 29, 1819, Widow Harvey, 90 -Ai)i-il 19, 1819, Widow Abigail Whittaker, 96 Jan. s. 1S20, William White, 83 July 10, 1820, Lydia (Goodale) White, widow of Wm. White, . 80 Aug. 28, 1820, Elizabeth (Rogers) Tucker, wife of Abijah, ... 94 March IS. 1821, Lydia (Goddard) Stone, widow of Eliphalet, . . 84 Sept. 20, 1821, Widow Sarah Sampson 89 Feb. 11, 182:3, Theodore Mann, ..81 July 4, 1825, Ebeuezer Rhodes, 80 Dec. 31, 1825, Widow Betsey (Flood) Spaulding, 80 39 290 HISTORY OF ISIARLBOROUGH. June 4, 18:27, John Rogers, 80 Dec. 21. 1828, Abijah Tucker, 89 July 11, 1820, Daniel Emerson, 82 INIarch 27, 1831. :\rehital)le (Jones) Teuney, widow of William, . . 81 IMarch, 1882, Josiah Parkhurst 95 May 17, 1833, Widow Abigail Emerson, 87 June 28, 1836, Mirriam (Wheeler) Richardson, widow of Israel, . 00 Sept. 14, 1836, Aseneth (Rice) Hastings, wife of Thaddeus. . . So Feb. 25, 1837, Lois (Johnson) Wright, widow of Oliver. ... 02 April 24, 1837, Mrs. Mary Buss, widow of Jolni 90 Aug. 25, 1838, Hugh Mason. 80 1838, Mrs. Goodenow, widow of Benjamin 85 Nov. 30, 1839, Thaddeus Hastings, 95 July 23, 1839, Luke Newton, 84 Oct. 27, 1839, Ebanezer Hemenway, 80 April 12, 1840, Queen Harrington, 00 Dec. 2, 1840, Tabitha (Willson) Baker, widow of Jonadab, . . 80 April 1, 1841, Phinehas Farrar, 93 Jan. 7, 1842, Ebenezer Herrick, 83 Jmie 29, 1842, INIary (Maynard) Taynter. widow of Jedediah. . . 01 Feb. 0, 1843, Aaron Wiilard, . .' 85 Oct. 2, 1843, Abigail Worsley. wife of Robert 95 Dec. 10, 1843, David Wilkinson. 81 March 25, 1844, Hannah (Adams) Sargent, widow of Samuel, . . 80 Feb. 17, 1845, Lovina (Warren) Farrar, widow of Phinehas, . . 02 Dec, 1846, Gratia Mann, 80 Dec. 20, 1847, Lawson Moore, 01 June 16, 1848, Samuel Collester, 81 April 9, 1840, Jacob Woodward, 87 Sept. 22, 1849, John Converse, 82 Oct. 1, 1849, Bezaleel Baker, 81 April io, 1850, Benjamin Thatcher 00 Jan. 7, 1851, Lydia (Matthews) (."ollius, widow of Sanniel, . . 80 June 7, 1851, Ruth (Tower) Parmenter, widow of 'I'liaddcus. . 87 July 5, 1851, Widow ]\lorse, 80 Oct. 6, 1851, Mrs. Atwood, 81 Oct. 20, 1851, Jonathan Frost, 87 Jan. 31, 1852, Mrs. Lydia Knight 84 March 21, 1852, :\Iartha (Clark) Tolman, widow of Josc]>li, . . . SO June 27, 1852, Capt. Benjamin AVliitney 82 Sept. 22, 1852, MiiTJani (Newton) Xewton, widow uf ]>utlier. . . 88 1852, Ml-*. Howard, 84 Sept; 24, 1852, Mrs. Hobert, 87 Nov. 30, 1852, Asa Porter, ' . . 00 Sept. 2, 1853, Mercy (Totman) "Woodward, widow of Jacob, . . 96 Sept. ;')(), 1853, Feb. 5. 1854, Fel). 7, 1854, Feb. 10, 1854, July Ki. 1851, Oc't. IS. 1851. Sept. 20, 1855, July 27, 1856, -May IS, 1856, Sept. 4, 1856, Oct. 23, 1856, Dec. 29, 18.56, Jail. 12, 18.57, Xov. Ki, 18.57, Feb. 27, 1860, jNIarch 23. , 1860, May 24, 1860, Feb. 17. 1861, July 8, 1861, Nov. 7, 1861, March 2^ 1, 1862, Apr. 10, 1862, Aug. 6, 1862, Oct. 12, 1862, March 29, , 1863, May 3, 1863, Dec. 28, 1863, May 21, 1864, July 22, 1804, Xov. 24, 1864, Jan. 4, 1805, Jan. 27, 1865, Apr. 12, 1865, July 30, 1865, Oct. 10, 1865, Dec. 8, 1867, Feb. 22, 1868, Dec. 14, 1868, March 18, 1809, Xov. 25, 1870, ^larch 27. , 1871, Aug. 16, 1871, Aug. 21, 1871, Aug. 30. 1871, MORTCL'VRY RECORD. 291 Mrs. X^oyes, tlir ludtlicr of Mrs. , lames Farrar, . . 80 Silence (Belknap) Collester, widow of Saiiiuel, . . 84 Mrs. Mary Ward 82 Mrs. Emerson, 82 Widow Lucy l^arrabee, 83 liuth (Gates) llenienway, widow ot Fbeiiezer. . . 87 Xancy (Fuller) AAliitiicy. widow of Denjamiii. . . SS Mrs. Script lire, 80 Catharine lliscock, HI Molly (Patterson) Hemenway, widow of Elias, . . 93 Delilah (Rhodes) Bemis, widow of Jonathan, . . 81 Lydia (Collester) Cummings, widow of Daniel, . 85 Dorcas (Farnsworth) Gates, widow of Elijah, . . 87 Eliza Knight, 86 WiUiam ^^'hite, 87 John Towns, 82 Samuel Jones, 82 Jedediah Putney, 85 Esther (iMayuard) White, widow of William, . . 91 Ebenezer Coburn, 81 Zeuriah (Capron) (Converse) White, widow of Enoch, 81 Abigail (Wood) Baker, -widow of Bezaleel, . . . 91 llelief (Sawyer) llolman, widow of Esq. Charles, 90 Betsey Carlton, 96 Dea. Andrew Spooner, 82 Ruth (Allen) Wilkinson, widow of David, . . . 95 William Farrar, 81 James Wakefield, Esq., 82 Hannah Mason, 80 Mary (Tayntor) Wiswall, widow of Major John, . 89 Mrs. Howes, 84 Aaron Buss, 85 Rebecca (Metcalf) White, wife of Thomas, ... 81 Sarah French, 92 Thomas AA'hite, 82 Widow Lydia (Richardson) Lowell, 83 Silas Collins, . . • 81 Major Thomas Tolman, 85 Keziah Brooks, 81 Joseph Carter, 83 Nathan E. Wild, Esq., 92 Eunice (Porter) Wild, widow of Nathan, . . . 87 ' Anna (Pratt) (Lawrence) WiUard, widow of Aaron, 94 Polly (Converse) Holman, widow of Charles, . . 80 292 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. Luke Blodgett, 85 Sally Meniam, wife of Zadock, 84 Lois White, wife of Porter, 64 ^\'ido\v lllioda Stone, 88 Betsey (llerrick) llussell, widow of Abiier, ... 80 Winsor Gates, .81 Mrs. Nancy Fairbanks, . . SO Zoa (Noyes) Farrar, widow of Dea. James, . . . SU Mo.ses Hunt, 87 Sally (Lincoln) \\'hitcomb, widow of Dea. Simeon. 8.'> Lucy (Collins) Collins, widow of Artemas, . . . 8.j Lovisa (Con\erse) Buss, widow of John, .... 8:2 Jonas Woodward, 84 Jethro Coombs, 80 Jeremiah Herrick, 80 Hannah (Greenwood) Twitchell, 85 Olive (Farmenter) Woodward, widow of Josiali. . SO Lucy Hunt, widow of Moses, S5 Sila.s ^Vl^itcomb, so Sally Allison, i)l Caty (Woodward) Thatcher, wife of Elias, ... 91 Elias Thatcher, 8U David Wilkinson, 80 Calvin Tenney, 80 Zadock Merriam, 87 The following persons above eighty years of age were residing in town Jan, 1, 1880 : Benjamin Tilden, born in Marshfiekl, Mass., Dec. 14, 1785; Sally (Wright) Griihn, widow of the late Nathan Griffin of Nelson, born in Nelson, Dec. 24, 1786; Dolplms Bixby, born in Hillsborough, Jan. 7, 1790; Sarah (Wilkinson) Davis, widow of Jonah Davis, born in Marlborough, Oct. 29, 1790; Samuel Allison, born in Dublin, March 20, 1795; Col. Cyrus Frost, born in Marl- borough, Sept. 25, 1795 ; Clarissa (Johnson) (Stebbins) Lawrence, widow of Capt. Asa Lawrence of Roxbury, born in Bolton, Conn., Jan. 25, 1796; l^evi Thatcher, born in Marlborough, Dec. 6, 1796; Caroline (Richardson) Frost, wife of Col. Cyrus Frost, ))()rn in Dublin, May 22, 1797; Al)raham (^orcy, Ixnn in Richmond, May 10, 1798; Cyrus Thatcher, born in iMarlborough, May 9, 1799; Permilhi (Porter) Gates, widow of Levi Gates, born in Marlborougli, June 15, 1799. Oct. 10, 1871, Nov. 20, 1873, May 3, 1874, May 17, 1874, Jan. -21, 1875, Aug. 5, 1875, Nov. 14, 1875, Jan. 20, 1870, March 29 , 1870, Apr. 8, 1870, Aug. 3, 1870, Oct. ;50, 1870, Nov. 2, 1870, Nov. 15, 1870, Jan. 9, 1877, Jan. 17, 1877, March 1, 1877, Aug. 11, 1877, Aug. 24, 1877, May 4, 1878, Feb. 7, 1879, Feb. 8, 1879, Nov. 3, 1879, Nov. 4, 1879, Nov. 11, 1879, TOAVN OFFICERS. 293 TOWN OFFICERS. 1777. — Modevator, Thomas Higgs; Clerk, David Wheeler ; Selectmen, James Lewis, Eliphalet Stone, Ilichard Tozer. 1778. — ]\Ioderator, Ilichard Atwell; Clerk, David Wheeler; Selectmen, Richard Atwell, David Wheeler, Oliver Wright. 1779. — jNIoderator, Oliver AVright; Clerk, David Wheeler; Selectmen, James Lewis, David Wheeler, Oliver Wright. 1780. — Moderator, William Barker; Clerk, Oliver Wright; Selectmen, William Barker, Joseph Collins, Benoni Robbins. 1781. — ^Moderator, Jedediah Tayntor; Clerk, Oliver Wright; Selectmen, Oliver Wright, Samuel Sargent, Jedediah Tayntor, Samuel Soper, David Wheeler 1782. — Moderator, James Brewer; Clerk, Oliver Wright; Selectmen, James Brewer, James Flood, Silas Fife, Ebenezer Temple, Daniel Cutting. 1783. — Moderator, David Wheeler; Clerk, Oliver Wright; Selectmen, Reuben Ward, Phinehas Farrar, Alexander Parkman, Thomas Upham, Joseph Blood. 1784.— Moderator, Datvid Wheeler; Clerk, Oliver Wright; Selectmen, Phinehas Farrar, Thomas Thompson, Oliver Wright. 1785. — Moderator, Phinehas Farrar ; Clerk, James Brewer ; Selectmen, James Brewer, Phinehas Farrar, David Wheeler. Representa- tive, Alexander Parkman. 178G. — Moderator, Oliver Wright; Clerk, Jonathan Whipple; Select- men, Oliver Wright, Eliphalet Stone, Abijah Tucker. 1787. — Moderator, Oliver Wright; Clerk, Jonathan Whipple; Select- men, Oliver Wright, Joseph Collins, Daniel Cutting. Repre- sentative, Jedediah Tayntor. 1788. — Moderator, Oliver Wright ; Clerk, Justus Perrj- ; Selectmen, Oliver Wright, Ebenezer Temple, Jonathan Whipple. Repre- sentative, Jedediah Tayntor. 1789. — Moderator, Phinehas Farrar ; Clerk, Jonathan Whipple ; Select- men, Ebenezer Temple, Phinehas Farrar, Eliphalet Stone. 1790. — Moderator, Eliphalet Stone ; Clerk, Phinehas Farrar; Selectmen, Silas Fife, Daniel Cutting, Moses Tucker. 1791. — Moderator, David Wheeler; Clerk, Oliver Wright; Selectmen, Oliver Wright, Joseph Frost, Calvin Stone. 1792. — Moderator, Phinehas Farrar ; Clerk, Oliver Wright ; Selectmen, Oliver Wright, Phinehas Farrar, Silas Fife. 1793. — Moderator, Richard Roberts; Clerk, Ebenezer Temple; Select- men, Reuben Ward, Andrew Phillips, Moses Tucker. Repre- sentative, Phinehas Farrar. 1794. — Moderator, Reuben Ward ; Clerk, Ebenezer Temple ; Selectmen, Ebenezer Temple, Jonadab Baker, Phinehas Farrar. Repre- sentative. I'li'nu'lias Farrar. 204 HISTORY OF MARLBORO tTGtt. 1705. — Aloderator, riiiuelias Farrar ; Clerk, Calvin Stone; Selectmen, Calvin Stone, Phinehas Farrar, Jonadab Baker. Kepresenta- tive, Phinehas Farrar. 1790. — Moderator, Phinehas Farrar; Clerk. Calvin Stone; Selectmen, Phinehas Farrar, Hugh ]\Iason, Benjamin ^^'hitney. Repre- sentative, Phinehas Farrar. 1797. — ^Moderator, Phinehas Farrar ; Clerk, Ebenezer Temple ; Select- men, Phinehas Farrar, Hugh Mason, Benjamin Whitney Kepreseutative, Phinehas Farrar. 17!t'S. — Moderator, Hugh Mason; Clerk, Ebenezer Temple; Selectmen, Ebenezer Temple, Joseph Frost, David Wheeler, Phinehas P'arrar. Gideon Newton, llepresentative, Jedediah Ta}^ltor. 1799. — Moderator, Phinehas Farrar; Clerk, Ebeiiezer Temple; Select- men, Phinehas Farrar, Joseph Frost, Ebenezer Temple. 18UU. — Moderator, Joseph Frost; Clerk, Ebenezer Temple; Selectmen. Joseph Frost, Ebenezer Temple, Amos Cummings. Represen- tative, Phinehas Farrar. 1801. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Ebenezer Temple; Selectmen, Ebenezer Temple, Joseph Frost, Benjamin Whitney. Repre- sentative, Phinehas Farrar. 1802. — Moderator, Phinehas Farrar ; Clerk, Levi Gates ; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Phinehas Farrar, William Banks. Representative, Phinehas Farrar. 1803. — ]\Ioderator, Phinehas Farrar; Clerk, Levi Gates; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Phinehas Farrar, William Banks. Representative, Phinehas Farrar. iy()4. — Moderator, Joseph Frost; Clerk, Levi Gates; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Phinehas Farrar, William Banks. Representative, Phinehas Farrar. 1805. — Moderator, Joseph Frost ; Clerk, Benjamin Whitney; Selectmen, Benjamin Whitney, Phinehas Farrar, William Banks. Repre- sentative, Phinehas Farrar. 1300. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Benjamin Whitney; Select- men, Benjamin Whitney, Jonathan Frost, William Banks. Representative, Col. Joseph Frost. 1807. — Moderator, Col. Joseph Frost; Clerk, Benjamin Whitney; Select- men, Benjamin Whitney, Phinehas Farrar, Jonathan Frost. Representative, Phinehas Farrar. 1808. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Benjamin Whitney; Select- men, Benjamin Whitney, Phinehas Farrar, Jonathan Frost. Representative, Phinehas Farrar. 1809. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Benjamin Whitney; Select- men, Benjamin Whitney, Col. Joseph Frost, Jonathan Frost. Representative, Phinehas Farrar. 1810. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Benjamin Whitney; Select- men, Benjamin Whitney, Col. Joscjdi Frost, Jonathan Frost, Representative, Phinehas Farrar. TOWN OFPrCERS. 205 1811. — Moderator, IShubael Stone; Clerk, Levi Gates; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Phinehas Farrar, Maj. John Wiswall. Representative Phinelias Farrar. ISrJ.— Moderator, Hugh Mason; Clerk. Benjamin Whitney; Selectmen, Col. -Joseph Frost, Jonathan Frost, Caleb I'erry. Representa- tive, Phinehas Farrar. I8I0. — ^Moderator, Shiibael Stone; Ckn-k, Jonathan Frost; Selectmen, Jonathan Frost, Col. Joseph Frost, Daniel Cntting. Repre- sentative, Col. Joseph Frost. ISli. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Jonathan Frost; Selectmen, Jonathan Frost, Col. Joseph Frost, Maj. John Wiswall. Rep- resentative, Col. Joseph Frost. 181.5. — JNIoderator, Hugh Mason; Clerk, Jonathan Frost; Selectmen, Maj. John Wiswall, Hugh Mason, Daniel Cutting. Repre.sen- tative, Phillips Sweetser. 181G.— INIoderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk. Jonathan Frost; Selectmen, Jonathan Frost, Hugh Mason, Maj. John Wiswall. Represen- tative, Phillips Sweetser. 1817. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Jonathan Frost; Selectmen, Jonathan Frost, Levi Gates, Hugh Mason. Representative, Col. Joseph Frost. 1818. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Jonathan Frost; Selectmen, Jonathan Frost, Levi Gates, Thomas Tolman. Representative, Col. Joseph Frost. 1819. — ^Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Levi Gates; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Thomas Tolman, Maj. John Wiswall. Representative, Levi Gates. . 1820. — Moderator, Hugh ISIason ; Clerk, Levi Gates; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Maj. John Wiswall, Abner Boyden. Representative, Levi Gates. 1821. — Moderator, Shubael Stone; Clerk, Levi Gates; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Abner Boyden, Maj. John Wiswall. Representative, Col. Joseph Frost. 1822. — ^Moderator, Oliver Boyden; Clerk, Abner Boyden; Selectmen, Abner Boyden, Hugh Mason, Charles Holman. Representa- tive, Col. Joseph Frost. 1823. — ^loderator, Hugh Mason; Clerk, Abner Boyden; Selectmen, Abner Boyden, Hugh Mason, Charles Holman. Representa- tive, Levi Gates. 182i.— :Moderator, Col. Joseph Frost; Clerk, Abner Boyden ; Selectmen, Abner Boyden, Charles Hohnan, Samuel Gage. Representa- tive, Col. Joseph Frost. 1825. — Moderator, Jesse Stone; Clerk, Abner Boyden; Selectmen, Abner Boyden, Charles Holman, Levi Gates, Jr. Representative, Joseph Frost, 296 HISTORY OF ISrARLBOROUGH. 1826. — Moderator, Jolm Wiswall ; Clerk, Asa Frost; Selectmen, Asa Frost, Abner Boycleii, .Toliii Wiswall. Rein-oseutative, Col. Joseph Frost. ^ 1827. — Moderator, Joseph Fi-ost, Jr. ; Clerk, Abner Boyden; Selectmen, Abner Boj'den, Charles Hohnan, Levi Gates, Jr. llepresenta- tive, Joye]ih P'rost. 1828. — Moderator, Joseph Frost, Jr. ; Clerk, Abner Boyden ; Selectmen, Abner Boyden, Levi Gates, Jr., Amos Sargent. Representa- tive, Joseph Frost. 1829. — Moderator, Joseph Frost, Jr. ; Clerk, Abner Boyden ; Selectmen, Abner Boyden, Levi Gates, Jr., Amos Sargent. Representative, Col. Joseph Frost. 1830. — Moderator, Jonah Davis ; Clerk, Levi Gates, Jr. ; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Jr., Abner Boyden, Eber I'ennejf. Representative, Abner Boyden. 1831. — Moderator, Jonah Davis; Clerk, Levi Gates, Jr.; Selectmen, Levi Gates, Jr., Abner Boyden, Amos Sargent. Rejn-esentative, Abner Boyden. 1832. — Moderator, Charles Hohnan, Jr. ; Clerk, Abner Boyden ; Select- men, Abner Boj^den, Levi Gates, Amos Sargent. Representa- tive, Levi Gates. 1S33. — Moderator, William Tenney; Clerk, Abner Boyden; Selectmen, Abner Boyden, Daniel Emerson, Charles Holman. Represen- tative, Benjamin Whitney, Jr. 1834. — Moderator, Jonah Davis; Clerk, Aluier IJoydeii; Selectmen, Daniel, Emerson, Benjamin Whitney, Jr., Asa Frost. Repre- sentative, Benjamin Whitney, Jr. 1835. — INIoderator, Jonah Davis; Clerk, Abner Boyden; Selectmen, Benjamin AVhitney, Jr., Samuel Jones, Amos Sargent. Repre- sentative, Benjamin A^^litney, Jr. 1836. — Moderator, Jonah Davis ; Clerk, Abner Boyden ; Selectmen, Cyrus Frost, Levi W. Porter, Amos Sargent. Representative, Cyrus Frost. 1837. — ^loderator, Jonah Davis; Clerk, Abner Boyden; Selectmen, Charles Ilolman, Jr., Benjamin Whitney, Jr., Levi W. Porter. Reinx'sentative, Charles Ilolman, Jr. 1838. — Moderator, John Wiswall ; Clerk, Cyrus Frost ; Selectmen, Benjamin Whitney, Jr., Charles Ilolman, Jr., Jeremiah Iler- rick. Representative, Charles Holman, Jv. 1839. — Moderator, John Wi.swall; Clerk, William Boyden; Selectmen, Benjamin ^Vhitney, Jr., Jeremiah Ilerrick, Le\i W. Porter. Representative, Benjamin Whitney, Jr. 1840. — INIoderator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, David AN'ilkinson, Jr., Se- lectmen, Benjamin Whitney, Jr., Jeremiah Ilerrick, Levi W. fOYttiv. Representiitive, James BatcheUer. TOWN OFFICERS. 207 ISll. — Modorator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, William Boyden ; Selectmen, Jeremiah Ilerriek, Levi W. Torter, ^mos Ciimmings, Jr. Rep- resentative, James Batcheller. 1S1"2. — Moderator, Nelson Converse ; Clerk, William Boyden ; Selectmen, Amos Cummings, Jr., Levi W. Porter, Joseph Cummings. Representative, Amos Cummings, Jr. 1813. — Moderator, Nelson Converse ; Clerk, William Boyden ; Selectmen, Amos Cmiimings, Jr., Levi W. Porter, Joseph Cumnungs. Representative, Amos Ciimmings, Jr. 1811.— Moderator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, William Boyden ; Selectmen, Amos Cummings, Benjamin Whitney, Jaii-us Collins. Repre- sentative, Amos Cummings. 1815. — ^Moderator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, William Boyden; Select- men, Levi AV. Porter, Jeremiah Ilerriek, Nelson Converse. Representative, James Batcheller. 1816. — Moderator, Nelson Converse ; Clerk, William Boyden ; Select- men, Levi W. Porter, Nelson Converse, Eli Doi-t. Representa- tive, None. ' 1847. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, Jairus Collins; Selectmen Levi W. Porter, Nelson Converse, Jairus Collins. Representa- tive, Levi W. Porter. 1818. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, William Boyden ; Selectmen, Levi W. Portei", Merrill Mason, George A. Nutting. Repre- sentative, Levi W. Porter. 1819. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, William Boyden; Selectmen, Levi AV. Porter, Merrill Mason, Eli Dort. Representative, Levi W. Porter. 1850. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, William Boyden; Selectmen, Merrill Mason, Eli Dort, Samuel Allison ; Representative, Asa Maynard. 1851. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, AA^illi am Boyden; Selectmen, Benjamin AVhitney, Jr., Jeremiah Hei-rick, Samuel Allison ; Representative, Benjamin AA^hitney, Jr. 1852. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, AVilli am Boyden; Selectmen, Benjamin AVliitney, Jr., Jeremiah Herrick, Asa Greenwood. Representative, Benjamin AA^hitney, eTr. 1853. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, William Boyden; Selectmen, Jeremiah Herrick, Asa Maynard, ,>«iirus Collins; Representa- tive, Asa Maynard. 1851. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden ; Clerk, William Boyden; Selectmen, Asa Maynard, Jairus Collins, Menill Mason ; Representative, Asa Maynard. 1855. — Moderator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, AVilliam Boyden: Select- men, Asa Maynard, Jairus Collins, Emery Cudworth ; Repre- sentative, Nelson Converse. 40 298 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. 1856. — Moderator, Elijah Boydeii; Clerk, William Boydeu; Selectmen, "William Boyden, William Teuiiey, 2d, Emery Cudworth. Representative, 'William Boyden. * 1857. — Moderator, Edwin DaA'is; Clerk, Jairus Collins; Selectmen, Jairus Collins, Phinehas Gleason, Amos B. Tenney. Repre- sentative, Jeremiah Ilerrick. 1858. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, Elisha O. Woodward; Select- men, Henry C. Tenney, Phinelias Gleason, Amos A. ]Mason. Representative, Jeremiah Ilerrick. 1859. — Moderator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, Elislia O. A\'oodward ; Se- lectmen, Henry C. Tenney," Amos A. ^lason, Emery Cudworth. Representative, Charles Gilbert. 1860. — Moderator, Elijah Boyden; Clerk, Elisha O.Woodward; Select- men, Henry C. Tenney, Amos A. ^Nlason, Elias Hardy. Repre- sentative, Charles Gilbert. 1861. — Moderator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, Elisha (). AV'oodward ; Se- lectmen, Amos A. Mason, William W. Greenwood, Charles K. Mason. Representative,* Charles K. jMason. 1862. — Moderator, Samnel A. Richardson ; Clerk, Elisha (). Woodward : Selectmen, Amos A. Mason, William W. Greenwood, Georgv A. Porter. Representative, Charles K. ^lason. 1863. — ]\Ioderator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, Elisha (). ^^'oodward; Se- lectmen, Amos A. Mason, George A. I'orter, Cyrus S. Moors. Representative, Amos A. Mason. 186i. — Moderator, Nelson Converse; Clerk, Elish;i (). Woo 28 1794, John Taylor Oilman, 66 Jeremiah Smith, . 21 1795, John Taylor Oilman, 49 John Goddard, . . 1 1790, John Taylor Oilman, 40 1808, Jeremiah Smith, . 35 1797, John Taylor Oilman, 45 John Langdon, . . 27 1798, John Taylor Oilman, 53 John Taylor Oilman. 24 Scattering, . . . 1 1809, Jeremiah Smith, . 147 1799, John Taylor Oilman, 43 John Langdon, . . 10 1800, John Taylor Oilman, 48 John Goddard, . . 1 1801, John Taylor Gilman, 140 1810, Jeremiah Smith. . 142 1S02, John Taylor Gilman, 147 John Langdon, . . 20 1803, John Taylor Oilman, 143 1811, Jeremiah Smith, . 131 VOTES FOR GOVERNOR 301 Governor. ; otes. Oovemor. / otes. 1811, John Langdoii, . . 29 1831, Ichabod Bartlett, . 121 181-, John Taylor Giliuan, . 130 Sanmel Dinsmore, . . 30 William riuuier, . 31 Scattering, '. . . 2 181;}, Julni Taylor Giliiiau, . lis 1832, Samuel Dinsmore, . 45 William i'lumer, . 13 Ichabod Bartlett, . 79 181-1, Juliii Taylor Gilman, 187 Scattering, . . . 1 A\'illiam I'hmier, . 15 1833, Samuel Dinsmore, . 50 1815, John Taylor Gilmau, 172 Scattering, . . . 1 William i'lumer, . 2i 1834, William Badger, . . 40 1810, Jame.s Sheai'e, . . 118 1835, 5, Levi Cliamberlain, 87 1851, Samuel Dinsmore, 40 1800, John Atwood, . . 60 Tliomas E. Sawyer. 79 1867, Scattering, . . . 1 1852. Xoali Martin. . . 52 John Atwood, . . 60 1868, Tliomas E. Sawyer, 83 1853, Xoah Martin, . . 44 1809, Jolui H. White, . 56 James Bell, . . . 72 1870, 1854, Xatlianiel B. Balcer, 35 Jared Perkins, . . 74 1871, James Bell, . . . 52 1855, James Bell, . . . 2 1872, Asa Fowler, . . . 7 X'athaniel B. Baker, •40 1873, llalpli ]\letcalt', . . 159 185G, Ralph Metcalf, . . 152 John S. Wells, . . 51 1874, Scattering, . . . 1 1857, William Haile. . . 161 1875, John S. Wells, . . 31 Scattering, . . . 1 1858, Asa P. Cate, . . . 38 1870, William Haile, . . 108 1859, Ichabod Goodwin. . 100 Asa P. Cate, . . . 36 1877, 1800, Ichabod Goodwin. . 170 Asa P. Gate, . . . 38 1861, Xatlianiel S. Berry, 152 1878, George Stark, . . 32 Governor. Votes. X\athaniel S. Berry, . 151 George Stark, ... 26 Joseph A. Gilmore, . 144 Ira A. Eastman, . . 38 Scattering 1 Joseph A. Gilmore, . 162 Edward \V. Harrington, 34 Frederick Smith, . . 157 Edward W. Harrington, 27 Frederick Smith, . John G. Sinclair, . Walter Harriman. . John G. Sinclair, . Scattering, . . . Walter Harriman, . John G. Sinclair, . Onslow Steams, John Bedel, . . Onslow Stearns, Joliii Bedel, . . James Pike, . . . James A. Weston, . Ezekiel A. Straw, . James A. Westou, . Ezekiel A. Straw, . James A. Weston. . Scattering, ... Luther McCutcliins, James A. Westou, . Person C. Cheney, . Hiram K. Roberts, Scattering, ... Person C. Cheney. . ' Daniel Marcy, . . Scattering, ... Benjamin F. Prescott Daniel Marcy, . . Scattering, ... Benjamin F. Prescott Frank A. McKean, 100 31 163 30 1 196 37 186 33 186 28 211 43 237 45 210 43 3 222 54 252 59 1 252 49 2 257 50 1 233 52 The small number of votes cast for many years after the adoption of a State Constitution was probably owing to the fact that the polls were not kept open through the day REMARKABLE EVENTS. 303 as at present, and tliose wlio were not present at the time tlie votes were called for had no opportunity to cast their ballot. Mrs. Miriam NeAvton, wife of Luther Newton, kept for more tlian sixty years a diar}^ in which she made a record of remarkable events, — the weather, l)irtlis, marriages, and deaths of the town's people, or any noted persons she had read or heard of. This diary, which is now in the posses- sion of her daughter, Miss Nancy Newton of Troy, has been of great value to the compiler in the preparation of these pages. The following extracts from this manuscript may not prove uninteresting to the reader : — " Uncommon darkness in New England, ^lay 19, 1780, — so dark at mid-da}^ candles were lighted, the night equally dark." "A remarkable thunder-storm, Oct. 31, 1783." "March 23, 1785, Rev. Mr. Packard was ordained at Marll)orougli, Mass. The. snow was so deep and hard that people went with horses and sleighs over walls and fences, aca'ost lots anywhere. It did not thaw any all day." " An uncommon whirlwind in Southborough, Mass., Aug. 15, 1787. And several others in diverse places. Some buildings burnt by lightning, while others were torn to })ieces by the wind. A very remarkable day through almost all the New England States." " A remarkaljle wind, Aug. 19, 1788, blowing from south- east, then from south-west. It turned up a great many trees, and killed cattle, damaged fields, etc." "A great frost. May 17, 1794." "A remarkable wind with snow, Oct. 9, 1801." ''A very extraordinary snow-storm and terrible wind, March 31, 1807." "A remarkable north-west wind, and extreme cold day, Jan. 12, 1810." "Sept. 23, 1815, a dreadful gale of wind tlu'oughout New England, in which many lives were lost, and the destruction of property in buildings, ships, merchandise, timber, and wood were beyond all calculation," 304 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. "■ June, 1810, iToiii the 5tli to the 12th very cokl, the groiuul froze every niglit, some snow fell the 6th day." '^ Sept. 27, 1816, a hard frost that killed all the com." "Jan. IT, 1817, a remarkable thunder-storm and some snow. The meeting-house in Fitzwilliam ))urnt by light- ning." "March 1 and 2, 1818, remarkable rainy days that caused a great freshet." "Aug. 1, 1819, a severe thunder-storm, the 2d day very heavy showers with tremendous lightning, that struck a great many buildings." " Aug. 28, 1826, a great freshet. It carried off almost all the bridges, broke dams, and damaged the roads greatly." " March 12, 1832, a severe thunder-storm, a barn burned by lightning in Jaffrey." "Nov. 13, 1833, a remarkable streaming of the stars in all directions." "Nov. 17, 1835, uncommon brilliant northern lights." " Jan. 25, 1837, great northern lights, very red." The dark day alluded to in Mrs. Newton's diary was one ever to be rememljered in the history of New England. The morning was clear and bright. About nine o'clock, a thick, black cloud was seen rising in the west, which soon spread over the whole sky. The cows came from the past- ures, the fowls went to roost, and the birds Hew to their nests the same as at night. At noon, the darkness was so great that lighted candles were placed upon the dinner- tables. The night was much darker than the day, and is described as being like that of Egypt, "a darkness that could be felt." Elias Plemenway, who was j)loughing on tliat day, was obliged to put up his cattle bel'ore noon, as the darkness was so intense that he could not see to plough a straight furrow. Thaddeus Hastings left liome in the morning, and on his return got lost, and was ol)lige(l to lie in the woods all night. (Others met with a simihir experi- ence, and the "Dark Day" was ever a subject of frequent remark by the last generation. TA IT I'KIMSM. 305 PAUPERISM. Tlie town has at times been subjected to great expense in assisting the needy. In the early days of its history, the custom of warning new-comers out of town, with a view to prevent tlieir accpiiring a legal settlement, was practised to a considerable extent. The following extract from the rec- ords will serve to illustrate the legal process by which this was accomplished : — State of Xew IIampsiiiuk. ^ To Mr. RicitAiii) Tozar, CnivSHiRE, ss. \ Conxlahle of Marlborough. You are hereby Required in the Xame of the government and people of said State forthwitli to notify and warn James Brook, and his wife Elizalieth Brook, Drucilla Brook, mary Brook, Hannah Brook, Sibel Brook, Esther Brook, Rebecca Brook, whose Last place of a Bode Sherly in the State of the masachusets Bay to Depart and leave this Town within the space of fourteen Days as the Law Directs. Hereof Fail not and make a Return of your Doings herein to us as soon as may Be, given under our hands and seal this third Day of March 1779. Lieut. OLIVER WRIGHT, ^ Selectmen Mr. RICHARD ATWELL, \ of DAVID WHEELER, J Marlborough. In obedience to the within warrant I notified and warned all the within named to Depart and Leave this town as the Law Directs. Mr. RICHARD TOZAR, "" Constahle. Warrants like this were served at first on all indiscrimi- nately, without regard to their condition in life or their abil- ity to support themselves. Thus we find on the list several who subsec^uently became men of inliuence, and were found among the heaviest tax-payers. Even Dr. David Carter who settled here in 1795, received this inhospitable welcome from the hands of Shubael Stone, constable, costing the town the sum of twenty-three cents. The vote in 1780, to "warn all out of the town for the futer who are not inhabitants,"' seems to have been complied with to the letter, if we are to take as evidence the great multiplicity of these warrants in this and the following years. These have not been without 41 306 HISTOllY OF MARLBOROUGH. use to the comjDiler, as the dates have been the means of ascertaining the progress of the settlements in town, and generally contain the names of the towns from whicli these persons removed. Previous to 1778, we have no evidence that the authori- ties were called upon to render aid to any individual. If there were any needy persoiis prior to this, they were either provided for at private expense or conveyed back to the towns from whence they came. In the warrant for the annual meeting in March of that year, there was an article which reads as follows : — "to see if the town Will make provision for support Mrs. Rebecca Webber, according to the request of Mr. Benne- dick Webber." The town voted, " not to maintain Mr. Benuedick Webber's Mother as one of the Poor of this town at present," In 1789, Oliver Wright presented an account of two shillings and sixpence for " time spent about Bethiah New- ton and mother being brought and llung on the town." For the next two years, the name of Bethiah Newton figures conspicuously on the records. The accounts of several different physicians for visits and medicine show her to have been during this time an invalid ; and those of Daniel Lawrence and others for wood and provisions seem to indi- cate that she lived by herself instead of being let to the lowest bidder, as was not unfrequently the case in such instances, in the early history of New England townships. The last we hear of her was in August, 1791, Avhen the town voted to allow Ebenezer Rhodes four sliillings and sixpence "for a petticoat that he let Betliiali Xewlon Jiave when she left town." For many years, tlie support ol" tlie poor was let to the lowest bidder. Subse({uently, all the poor were supi)ortcd by one person, in accordance with a contract made witli the town. But, as the number of paupers increased, it was thought Ijest for the town to purchase a farm, which Avas carried into effect in 1838. . Tho farm purchased was the Barker phiee, adjoining the ABATEMENT OF TAXES. 307 farm of George A. Nutting. It was previously owned by Asa Jiaker, aiul was purchased of him for the sum of twelve hundred dollars. Here, under the direction of an^ agent eniploj-ed by the town, the poor were well cared for ; but, after a triul of some seven years, it proved to be an unprofi- table investment for the town, and the farm was sold. Since that, those persons claiming assistance from the town have been boarded in private families, or at the County Alms-house. ABATEMENT OF TAXES. Previous to the commencement of the present century, laws were enacted giving towns the right to abate the taxes of any person who should request it, provided sufficient reason for such abatement be given. Consequently, in the warrant for the annual meeting of each year, there was an article, " to see if the town will abate any person's rates.'' Then, as well as now, there were many transient people in town, who would remain only long enough to have their names placed on the tax-list, and then leave without paying their respective rates ; and the collectors, despairing of ever collecting the same, would petition for their abatement, and, this being brought before the towai, they would generally comply with their request, and the collectors would no longer be responsible for the same. There were many poor men, the income of whose land was hardly sufficient to support the large family dependent on them, and, money being very scarce, would find it at the year's end impossible to pay the tax assessed against them. Such men would avail themselves of the privilege proffered, and ask for an abatement of their taxes ; and, in justice to those belonging to the more wealthy class of that day, we would say that the prayer of such petitioners was generally granted. There was also another class of individuals who sought to avail themselves' of this privilege, who were not always so successful. They were those who did not make hard work a specialty, and who, had they been industrious like their 308 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. neighbors, would luive been abuiuluully able to pay their taxes. To this class, if we may believe tradition, belonged Asa Metcalf. Being naturally an indolent fellow,* and choosing to hunt and fish ratlier than till the soil, or work for such of his neighbors as would have been willing to give him employment, he sought to pay his taxes in this wa}^ At length, the town, having complied several times with his request, and thinking perhaps to rid themselves of all such petitions from him in the future, passed the following vote: "Voted to Abate mr. Asa Metcalfs Hates upon con- dition he Avill Leave this town and Not truble it any more ; also, voted not to Rate him this year." As he did not leave the town, but continued to reside therein until his death, more than thirty years thereafter, is sufficient proof that his taxes were not abated. \VILD ANIMALS. The early settlers of Marlborough w^re much troubled by the invasion of wild animals ; the most troublesome of which were the bear, wolf, and catamount. Many anec- dotes of the warfare carried on with these ferocious beasts have been handed down to us ; some of which we will nar- rate. In many instances, these animals were taken in traps, the most of which were made of wood, and called log traps, being constructed similar to the modern mink-trap now in use. Steel traps were, however, sometimes used, being more easily set than the former. It is related that at one time Joel Porter was much troubled b}^ the depredations of a large bear. He tried various ways to get rid of the animal, Init without success. Not knowing how to make a log trap, he applied to Mr. Jonathan Bemis for assistance, at the same time offering to give him five copijers^ if he would go and help set a log trap. *The writer b;is seen a copy of a return made to the State of the number of paupers in town, and the reason wliy they could not support themselves. Among the number is mentioned " Mr. Asa Metcalf, the reason why be cannot support him. self is that lie lias always been an idle and indolent follow." WILD ANIMALS. 309 Mr. Bemis accepted llic dl't'cr, and set the lra|i. Iiaitiiig it Milli a large piece of meat. Having Aviili tlicm ]ii()rt' meat than was necessary for bait, tlie remainder they hung in a tree near by. The ncixt morning Mr. Porter visited the trap, and round it sprung, the bait gone, as was also that which Avas hung in the tree. Finding that bruin had once more eluded his eiforts, Mr. Porter, not easily discouraged, again baited tlie trap, and on a second visit fuuiid lie was rewarded by a hirge bear, ^^'hich weighed four liundred pounds, when dressed. About 1794, a couple of hunters started a large bear in the town of Swanzey. Their dogs following him at a brisk rate into Marlborough ; he finally turned his course toward the Monadnock, and, getting tired, stopped and set himself down Avith his back against a tree ; so that the dogs, when tliey should come up, could not get in his rear. When the dogs came up, a severe hght followed, in wiiich one was killed before the hunters reached them.' On their appear- ance, the bear darted off before they could despatch him ; and, night coming on, they called off their dogs, and put up for the night at Bezaleel Baker's. Benjamin Dole who then lived on the Phinehas Farrar place, near the foot of the mountain, — and who, by the way, was quite a noted hunter, — found that niglit what course the bear had taken, ^\■ent home and made preparations for an earl}- start the next morning, hoping to secure the bear before the hunters shoidd get upon his track. He chai'ged his gun for the pur- pose, and, soon as he could see in the morning, started off into the forest toward the place where he supposed bruin had hid himself from his pursuers. Some three inches of light snow had fallen during the night. As he was jogging along, and before he had begun to look for his game, he of a sudden came upon him. The bear was completely covered with snow, and the man Avas almost upon him before he knew it. Bruin, thus suddenly disturbed, sprang up, shook off the snow, and hastily pressed his way toward the moun- tain. His enemy was too much frightened to level and dis- charge his gun, and the bear escaped. Mr. Dole, who had 310 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. taken 8u niiicli pains to t-apLuru him, tlid not hear tJie last of his bold adventure lor numy years. When the country was new, the settlers who wished to keep their sheep secure from wild animals were obliged to have a fold made wolf-proof, where they yarded them during the summer. Daniel Cutting, Sen., had a yard, the fence of which was some six or seven feet high, so tliat he thought Jio bear or wolf could get over it. In this his sheep were secured every night. On going to the yard one morning, they found the fattest sheep in the flock missing ; and, on examining the fence, they discovered where a bear had raked the logs with his claws, which told plainly that bruin had scaled the fence, secured the best sheep in the flock, and taken what is called " French leave.'" A couple of hunters with two or three dogs were immediately put upon the track, and, after following some two nules, overtot)k, and despatched him. When the road from Keene to Boston led by Mr. Asa Porter's, where Fuller Clark now resides, a teamster came along one day, and informed Mr. Porter that a bear and two cubs had just crossed the road between his house and the " Brandy Brook," so called. Mr. Porter took his axe, and started off, saying, as he did so, " I will have one of the cubs." He went into the woods, as he was directed and, soon came upon one of the cubs, which he immediately secured ; but the cub set up a bitter cry, which brought old bruin to the spot, so enraged that Mr. l*orter dropped the cub, and, Ihiidving he was on the point of being torn in pieces, backed up against a tree, and by swinging his axe kept the bear from springing upon him. lie was too much frightened to scream, but made a noise as though he was in distress, which brought to the spot Mr. Ebenezer Jenne, who was at work near by ; and the bear, seeing his enemy thus re-enforced, left the Held to his opponent ; and Mr. Porter was glad to return to his house without liis game. Thaddeus Parmenter, while going through the forest, be- tween the Stillman Woodward farm and where George A. Nutting now resides, walking, as was his custom, Avitli his WILD ANIMALS. B11 head down, I'uuikI liiiuscli" all at once conrrontcd by a large bear which sat up on its haunches, looking directly at him. Mr. Parmenter stood still for a moment, at a loss to know what to do, but finally concluded to try to scare it. He accordingly took oft' his broad-])rim hat, and, shaking it, jumiied toward the bear, at the same time screaming at the to}) of his voice. As he jumped, the bear turned and ran, with two cubs foUoAving, and were soon lost in the dense woods. iNFr. Parmenter, in relating the story, used to say, he did not know which was the most frightened, the bear or himself. At another time, soon after his settlement on the farm now owned by Mr. Nutting, he went one afternoon to the grist-mill of Daniel Gould, in the south part of the town, now Troy. Several customers had arrived at the mill before him : and, l)eing obliged to wait his turn, it was nearly dark before he started on his return. When he arrived within about one-fourth of a mile of his home, he was suddenly startled l)y the bark of a wolf, which came from the direction of his log house : this was answered by another and another, until there were a score of them. He paused for a moment, and to his horror perceived they were on his down track, and were rapidlj^ approaching him. He had but a moment in which to act, but his presence of mind did not desert him. Taking the bag from his shoulder, he threw it as far as possible into the forest, and then gave a leap in the same direction ; and, picking up a club with whicii to defend himself, he sat down and waited the ajjjiroach of the wolves. He had not long to wait, for they were close up(ui him. When the foremost of the jiack reached the place from which he had leaped, it paused for an instant; and, finding the track freshened, they all pushed on with renewed vio-or down toward the mill, not noticing: that their intended victim was within a few rods of them, breathlessly awaiting the result. When they had passed out of sight and hearing, he again shonldered his nu'al, and traversed the remaining distance as rapidh^ as circnm- stances would admit, well knowing tliat tlu; disap]Jointed 312 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. wolves would soon return, when it uiight not be so easy to elude them. On liis arrival home, he found his wife in great distress. She, having heard the wolves, and knowing they were upon her husband's track, had given up all hopes of his return. Having learned from this experience the dan- ger of being out after dark, he was careful ever afterwards to go to mill in the morning, and return to his home by daylight. Abijah Tucker used to say that it was no uneommon thing for him, as he passed through the forest between his house and mill, to see bears and even wolves. He related that, upon one occasion, he found Ids cow caught in a thicket of brush, and a wolf gnawing the flesh from her legs. The catamount was tlie most ferocious of all the wild beasts in this region. Being of large size, and possessing great strength and agility of movement, it was the terror of both man and beast. But fortunately they were not numer- ous in this section. Mr. Jonathan Bemis, Sen., having set some snares for partridges, found on visiting them, on a certain morning, that one had been caught and partly devoured by some wild animal. He accordingly removed the snare, and set in its place a large steel trap. On going to the place the next morning, to his surprise he found the trap was gone ; but, going on a short distance, he soon heard the clanking of the chain with which the trap had been fastened, and, following along some distance, came in sight of the animal, which was caught b}^ the leg, and was making off witli the trap. Mr. Bemis, having no gun, was at a loss to know what to do; but, seeing the chain was caught under a root, he resolved to despatch the animal, if possil)le. Picking up a large stone, he threw it with such unerring aim as to hit the creature between the eyes, drop})ing him instantly. Having made sure tlie animal was dead, he a])])r()a('lie(l, and, taking it from the trap, found it to be a catanu)unt, so hirge that, as he was CJUTying it home oil his back, it dragged on the ground, TVn.D ANIMALS. 313 At tliu request of Jonathan William Fife of Hartford, Conn., a great-grandson of Dea. Silas Fife, we insert the following, which is taken from the History of Troy : — " A most remarkable catamount was once killed by Dea. Fife, near the pond, a little east of his house. Soon after Dea. Fife settled here, his father came to make him a visit ; and, as was the custom in those days, he brought his axe to assist his son in clearing the forest. One day as they were chopping a little west of the pond, they discovered a deer that had just been killed by some unknown monster of the wilderness. Being somewhat alarmed, they immediately decided to take measures to rid the forest of so dangerous a visitor. Without delay, 3^oung Fife took his father's horse, and went to Rindge, where he procured of Dea. Love- joy of that town a large steel trap. As the sun was setting, Avith trap, gun, and axe in hand, the father and son sought the carcass of the deer. Rut, to their surprise, it had been drawn several rods, and finally taken up and carried away, so that they could track it no farther. But, finding the heart and liver, they felled a tree, from which they cut a log and hitched the same to the trap, which they placed in a position to take the fatal grip, whenever the animal should return to obtain the fragments of his slaughtered victim. The next morning the deacon took his musket, and, in company with his father, was soon on the ground, and to their astonishment the trap, log, and all were gone. With much caution, they followed the track of the log in the direction toward the pond, near which the}' perceived tlie animal, with his appendages permanently entangled among the rocks. When they had arrived within a few rods, the monster reared on his hind legs, and, as he took a survey of his enemy, gnashed his teeth, and seemed to bid defiance to them. As young Fife raised his gun to his eye, his father pleaded with him not to fire, fearing that the catamount would kill them both. But crack went the mus- ket, and at first it seemed to make no impression upon hira. But it was soon reloaded and brought to his eye a second time, when seeing his fury abating, and that he was 43 314 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. trembling, he waited a iiiomciit and the animal lull. On approaching him, it was found that he was dead, the ball having pierced his heart. His measurement was thirteen feet and four inches from his nose to the end of his tail. His skin was afterwards stuffed, and placed on exhibition in the Boston Museum." ALEXANDER FISH's EAR. The following is copied from the town records of 1703 : — Mauluokougii, Jan. 21, 1703. These may certify all persons ^Yhom it may Concern that Nathan Frost Lawson Did in anger Avilliulh' Bite off Alexander Fish's Ear, this instant, Jan. 1793. Attest: PHINEHAS FARRAR, 1 SILAS FIFE, ]- Selectmen. OLIVER WRIGHT, J For a long time, the compiler was at a loss to know the meaning of this (|uaint record, or why it was thus placed upon the pages of our town-books ; but diligent inquiry among our aged people revealed the following facts. Na- than Frost Lawson was a transient person, whose residence in this town was very short. It is not known whence he came nor where he went; but it is known tliat in his 3^outh he committed a crime, for which he suffered the penalty of having his ear cropped, according to the custom of those da3^s. It is stated that on the day referred to he and Fish met at the tavern; and, both having partaken freely at the bar, an animated conversation took place between the two, in the course of which Fish twitted Lawson about his ear. This so enraged Lawson that ho seized Fish, and. throwing him upon the floor, bit off his ear in like manner as his own. Fish, in his sober moments, fearing lest the people might tliiiik that he, too, had broken the laws of his country, requested the selectmen to make a record upon the town- books, to which he could refer, if need be. ANECDOTES. Many pleasing anecdotes arc told of Esquire Sweetser, •\vlio for many years kept the principal tavern in town, ANECDOTES. 315 It is related that on one occasion in town-meeting there was considerable difficulty in choosing a representative, riiinelias Farrar having held that otlice for several years in succession, it was deemed advisable by many of the leading citizens to choose some one else in his stead; but, being- divided in their opinions, they were for some time unable to make any choice among the several candidates. A warm discussion was taking place, when the old Esquire — who, by the way, had just patronized his own bar — entered the room. Being a warm friend of Mr. Farrar, he felt himself bound to use his influence to send him again to the General Court. He accordingly rose, and said in his own peculiar tone : " Mr. Moderator and gentlemen, let me give you a few words of advice. If you want a man to represent you in the General Court of this State, send Esquire Farrar by all means, for he has been so many times he knows the way, and the necessary steps to be taken. If 3-ou wish to send a man to Canada, send Col. Joseph Frost: he has two or three sons living there, and he would like to visit them. But, if you want to send a man to hell, send Hezekiah Hodgkins ; for he will have to go some time, and it is time he was there now." Esquire Sweetser and a Mr. Harrington who at that time was proprietor of the Eagle Hotel in Keene, were firm friends ; and, thinking alike in politics, many a time they sat over a mug of toddy, discussing the political news of the day. Having heard that Mr. Harrington had changed his views in relation to politics, the Esquire harnessed his horse and drove to Keene. Entering the hotel, he walked up to JMr. Harrington remarking that he had heard, he had somewhat changed his views in politics. Mr. Harrington replied that he had, and attempted to explain, but was interrupted by Mr. Sweetser, who said, " Mr. Harrington, men and the moon change, but the sun and principle never." And, turning about, he immediately left the hotel, and from that time all intercourse between these men ceased. The old Sijuire was very benevolent at times, and not 316 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. unfrequeiitly he bestowed liis eliaiity upon the sehool-ehil- dren. Going to the store, he would fill his leather apron with figs, raisins, and cand}', and go to the school-house where the children were at play, and, calling them around him, would give each a handiul, at the same time repeat- ing some passage from the Bible, touching upon charity, like the following: "• Charity covereth a multitude of sins"; or '' He that giveth to the poor lendeth to the Lord," etc. Theodore Mann was one of that class of individuals who, not being blessed with superior intellect, was often an object of ridicule among his neighbors, and not unfre- quently was this carried so far as to become open abuse. It happened on one occasion, as he was returning home from town-meeting, that he was met by IVter Tozer, John Wis- wall (afterwards Major}, and Josiah Woodward (son of Solomon). These young men, having had the example of their elders set before them, commenced to snow-ball and otherwise ill-treat Mr. jNIann, who was so incensed at the abuse offered him that he determined to have recourse to the law, and have the offenders punished. The culprits, fearing this threat would be carried into execution, requested him to desist, which he promised to do on condition that they would apologize in writing, which was readily consented to on the part of the young men. Accordingly, the parties met at the house of Mr. Tozer ; and Peter, who was a ready writer, and somewhat witty withal, was set to draw up the paper, the substance of which was as follows : — "We, the undersigned, do acknowledge that on town- meeting night we snow-balled and otherwise abused Mr. Theodore Mann ; but we did not kill him, and we are sorry for it." This, having been duly signed, was handed to Mr. Mann, who, after reading it, said he would accept it as their apology, and overlook the injury done. John Tozer, eldest son of Richard, was an eccentric fel- low ; and many humorous anecdotes are related of him, and among them is the following : When a young man, he paid his addresses to a fair lady ; but his father (who had buried ANECDOTES. 317 his wil'i' hill a short time previous) sup]:)hiiiU'(l him in her affections. Soon afterwards, going home on a visit, his father being aAvay at the time, liis new niotlier recpiested him to ask a blessing at meal-time, which he did as follows: — " Altlioiigli you are my mother, I love you as my life. If father had not been so spry, I'd had you for my wife." CHAPTER XV. THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. At the annual town-meeting, INIarch 14, 1876, pursuant to an article in the warrant : — "' Voted, That there be a committee of five chosen to make arrangements for celebrating the one hundredth anni- versary of the incorporation of the town, said celebration to cost the town nothing. Chose Thomas White, David Wilkinson, Mowry A. Thompson, Daniel W. Tenney, and Charles A. Bemis." The committee organized by choosing Thomas White, Chairman ; Charles A. Bemis, Secretary ; and Daniel W. Tenney, Treasurer. On motion of Daniel W. Tenney, Charles K. Mason was' added to the committee. As the one hundredth anniA'ersarj^ of the incorporation of the town occurred at an unfavorable season of the year (December 13), it was decided to celebrate on the 1th of July. At a meeting of the committee, April 7, six more were added to this committee ; namely, George F. Wise, William C. Mason, Cyrus E. Hardy, Samuel Jones, John McRoy, and Jedediah T. Collins. This meeting was adjourned to Wednesday, April 19, at 7 o'clock P.M., at which time it was voted unanimously to invite Rev. Sullivan H. McColl- ester of Akron, Ohio, a native of Marlborough, to deliver the centennial address on that occasion. Cliose Daniel W. Tenney to invite the Mechanics' Cornet Band and the THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 310 Marlborough Comet Band to furnish music for the cele- hration. Chose Charles K. Mason, Charles A. Bemis, and Cyrus E. Hard}- to invite guests. Voted, To adjourn this meeting for two weeks. Mai/ 3. — Met according to adjournment, and proceeded as follows : Chose Jairus Collins, Col. Cyrus Frost, and INIowry A. Thompson a committee to prepare sentiments. Chose George F, Wise, Cyrus S. Moors, and E. Willard INfason to furnish sacred mnsic on the day of celebration. Voted, To invite the old Cadet Band to be present, and march together in the j)rocession. 3Ia>/ 13. — The committee met, and chose Col. Nelson Converse Chief Marshal. He appointed as his aids for the day the following gentlemen : George Tliatcher,* James Knowlton, William M. Tenney, Darius Richardson, Renben Ward, Elijah Fitch, Barton Blodgett, Charles R. Bemis, ]\Ierrill ]\Iason, Amos A. Mason, William M. Nason, and Alphonso A. Adams. Chose Elijah Boyden President of the day. Chose Daniel W. Tenne}", Thomas White, George G. Davis, Cyrus E. Hardy, Col. Cyrus Frost, and Dr. Samuel A. Richardson Vice-Presidents. Chose Lnther Hemenway, Albert Knowlton, and Franklin R. Thurston a committee to select a suitable grove in which to hold the exercises on the day of celebration, and to report at the next meeting. 3Ia>/ 20. — The committee appointed to select a suitable grove in which to hold the exercises, reported that they had selected the one on land of Luther Hemenway, near the cemetery. Which report was accepted and adopted. Voted, That this committee trim the grove, build the speaker's stand, arrange the seats and tables, and make all necessary arrangements on the ground, and appoint such assistants as they shall think proper. Chose Rev. Henrv W. Hand and Rev. Noble Fisk, Toast-masters. Chose Rev. John L. INIerrill, Rev. Henry W. Hand, and Rev. Noble Fisk to select appropriate pieces for the choir to sing. It was de- cided that the collation should be free to all; and, to carry *Mr. Thntclier was unable to serve on accmmt of f^jcfeness, 320 HISTORY OF MAULBOROFGH. the same into effect, the committee of airangoments ap- pointed Mr. and Mrs. Charles Ryan, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Smith, ]\rr. and ]\Irs. J. Whitney Lawrence, Mr. and Mrs. James Tliatcher, ^Ir. and Mrs. Joseph M. Richardson, Mr. and Mrs. Ivory E. Gates, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Froc;ter, Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Cushing, Mv. and Mrs. George A. Porter, Mr. and Mrs. David S. Derby, Mr. and :\Irs. Elias A. Thatcher, Mr. and Mrs. Stillman Richardson, a commit- tee to solicit provisions, who performed their duties in a commendable manner. Chose Mr. and Mrs. Goodhue Tenney, Mr. and Mrs. Luke Knowlton, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Lnther G. Bemis, Mr. and Mrs. James F. Townsend, Mr. and Mrs. Thompson H. Richardson, Mr. and Mrs. Henry A. Spofford, Mr. and Mrs. Josiah L. Sargent, Mv. and Mrs. Milton J. White, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Ivers L. Richardson, i\Ir. and Mrs. William C. Mason, Mr. and Mrs. Stillman Woodward, Mr. and Mrs. Wilber F. Wallace a committee to take charge of the food as it was brought in, to superintend the tables, and appoint assistants for waiting on the people, etc. Voted, To choose a com- mittee of finance to provide funds to defray the expenses of the celebration. Chose Daniel W. Tenney, Charles K. Mason, Luther Hemenway, Marshall D. Adams, John Mc- Roy, Benjamin F. Cushing, Cyrus E. Hardy, David S. Derby, Philander Thatcher, and Isaac W. Ilolbrook. Much credit is due to this committee, who attended to their duties with promptness and despatch, and succeeded in raising by subscription a sum sufficient to defray all the expenses of the celebration. Chose Charles K. Mason, Col. Nelson Converse, and Daniel W. Tenney to report a pro- gramme of exercises and order of procession on the day of celebration. Chose Albert Knowlton, Nelson Converse, John demons, and Edwin B. INIa^thcws to procure a sup- ])ly of ice-water, and also to procure a suitable person to sell lemonade on the grounds. Jnna 23. — Voted, To fire one hundred guns, and ring the bells on the morning of the celebration. Voted, To ex- pend fifty dollars for fijcworks. Chose Daniel W. Tenney, THE CENTENNIAL CKLKF5K ATION. 821 George K. Harrington, and (leorge W. Tenney to procure the fireworks, attend to the firing of the cannon, and ring the bells. Chose David Wilkinson and ("liarlcs Smith to pro^dde carriages tor such aged peo})le as could not walk in the procession. 'July 4:^ 1876. — The day dawned favorably, and was ush- ered in by the ringing of bells and the firing of cannon. Long before the hour for the exercises at the grove, the usually (|uiet streets of the village were filled with the citi- zens of the town, and the absent sons and daughters of Marlborough, who had returned once more to their native place, to lay their offerings on the altar of their ancestors. Invited guests and citirzens of the neighboring towns were tiocking in, to participate in the joys and festivities of the day. A little before ten o'clock, the procession was formed in front of the Town Hall, in the following order, namely : — Chief Marshal. Mechanics' Cornet Band. Torrent Engine Co., Ivory E. Gates^, Foreman. President and Orator of the Day. Vice-Presidents. Clergy. Coiuniittee of Arrangements. Specially invited Cxiiests, expected to respond to Sentiments. Old People of Marlborough. Choir, C. S. iMoors, Leader. National Flag. Sunday Schools. Citizens from other Towns. Citizens of INIarlborough. At ten o'clock, the procession marched to the grove, where seats were provided for over two thousand persons. On the platform were seated the president, vice-presi- dents, clergy, committee of arrangements, choir, and report- ers, with a place for the speakers in front. At the right of the platform, seats were arranged for the band : while in front a smaller stand had been erected, ample enough to contain seats for the old people. 322 HISTORY OF I^IART.ROROUGH. The seats were all occupied, and many were obliged to stand or sit upon the ground during the exercises. It was estimated that there were ueai'ly twenty-five liuudriM] ])eople present, which was the largest collection ever convened at any one time in Marlborough. Had there not been cele- brations on the same day at Keene, Troy, and Nelson, it is probable the nund)er would have l)een much larger. The assembly was called to order by Chief-iMarshal C\)n- verse, who introduced Elijah Boyden, Esq., President of the day. J\Ir. Boyden came forward and spoke as follows : — Fellow- Citizens^ — We have assembled on this our Hun- dredth Anniversary of our National Birthday, to commemo- rate the one hundredth anniversary of the incorporation of the town of Marlborough. I congratulate you on the fine condition of weather with which we are favored to-day. I am pleased also to see so many of the former residents of the town present to participate with us in the exercises of this occasion. It used to be said in fornu^r years that New Hampshire was a good State to emigrate from. Perhaps it was not intended as a compliment. Nevertheless, in the sense that a family whose members are worthily brought up and properly trained for the duties of life is a good family to emigrate from, so I consider the " Old Granite State," in this sense, a good one to emigrate from. The very rugged- ness of its soil obliges its children to practise the cardinal virtues of industry and econom}^ in order to obtain a livelihood. And, although Marlborough is not the State itself, I consider it a fair rejircscntative town of tlie State, and, consequently, a good town to emigrate from. Indeed, we have present with us to-day many emigrants, former residents of the town, who liave returned to join wilii us iu the exercises of this occasion. And, as men do not gather grapes of thorns or figs of thistles, I submit to you that their very appearance is proof sufficient that their commencement of life must have been in a creditable locality. Some of them have obtained high positions in the civil government of otir country ; some THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 323 stand ai the head of educational institutions: others have hecume eminent in the clerical and medical professions. And, while all of them have been so successful abroad in adding credit to the place of their nativity, I trust, on their return, they will not lind that we who have remained here have been so uumindfvd of our duties as to cause them to l)lusli for our negligence. I was born in Marlborough, and my recollection of it extends back a little over one-half of its hundred years of incorporated existence. T do not wish to speak too eulogistically of it as a town, but I think, I can truthfully say that compared with other places of similar natural advantages it has shown a commendable degree of progress in its development. For this I can claim but very little credit to myself, since for the last twenty years I have l)een in no active business. But, for the citizens generally, as a business community, I think they have shown a good degree of enterprise and public spirit, and will conn)are favorably with other places of no greater advantages. For one of our greatest blessings, as you are all aware, we are indebted to the liberal generosity of one of Marlborough's sons, who is not now a permanent resident here, and who, I regret, is unable to be with us to-day. But, perhaps, if the town had not behaved itself tolerably well, the impulse might never have entered his generous heart to bestow ujion it the inestimable gift of a Free Public Library. But, in occupying the position I do to-day, it M^as not expected of me tliat I should attempt to make a speech or to enter upon any statistical information. I Avill not, therefore, detain you longer. The exercises then commenced with — 1. Voluntary, by the band, — "-Home, Sweet Home." 2. Invocation, by Rev. H. W. Hand, Pastor of the Uni- versalist Church. 3. Anthem, by the choir. 4. Selections from the Scriptures, by Rev. N. Fisk, Pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Psalm ciii. 5. Prayer, by Rev. J. L. Merrill, Pastor of tlie Congrega- tional Church. 324 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. 0. Antheiu, by the chuir. 7. Reading of the Declaration of Independence, by G. G. Davis. cS. Music by the band, — "America." H. The foUowing Address by Rev. S. H. McCollester, D.L)., of Akn.u, Ohio: — Felloro-Citizena, — The course of time is full of epochs. These are the milestones marking luiman progress. They are diamond-points set on the bosom of the past, to light np the present and reflect a halo of glory about the future. Around these epochs culminate the noblest characters, the grandest deeds, and the brightest hopes of the race. Every town, state, and nation has its epochs. About these memory delights to linger. " They are the spots of earth supremely blest. The dearest, sweetest spots of all the rest." There are occasions when God confers on men birthday gifts. Then it is that conscience is almost certain to strike the freedom-string in the harp of Liberty, inspiring courage in the mind and faith in the soul. Such an occasion has brought us together at this time. One hundred years ago to-day '' The Declaration of Independence "' was read in the C'ontinental Congress at Philadelphia, and the question was. "Shall it be adopted? '" The ays had it. That vote at once changed the political aspect of the Western World. It made a nation free, — free to think and free to do right. That grand action at once quickened new energies of mind and heart, which, in the course of a century, have blossomed into the most marvellous fruitage. Let speech and cannon commemorate the day our nation was born. It is worth the struggles of the past. It is worth the blood of fallen heroes. It is worth all the hard-fought battles of the American lievolution, and the five millions of recent graves sown over our laud for its preservation. O Washington I O Lincoln! it is worth all your prayins and anxious fears' For it tends to develop the truest manhood and the purest wonumhood. It cual)les each citizen to live, holdini)' a birthright in his THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION, 325 luiiul, ;i c'onmion scliool in his brain, and the Deehirution ol' Independence in his heart. But this day comes to us emphasized with a twol'ohl inter- est. We meet to celebrate, not only tlie l)irth(hiy ol" our Nation, but tlie incorporation of" our native town. From far and near, we luive assend)led around the shrine of our nativity, tliat we may lay thereon offerings of gratitude and thanksgiving. Surrounded as we are Avitli these comforts and blessings of happy homes, successful enterprises, flourishing schools, and consecrated churches, retrospection bids us look upon the picture a hundred years ago. Then, as a natural exhibition, it must have been attractive, being so diversified with high- lands and lowlands, lakes and rivers, forests and mountains, balmiest air and fairest sunlight. It must have been strangely inviting to look upon, for the admirer of the grand and beautiful. But for one to penetrate then into the wilderness, with the view of settling here, must have been foreboding. Then the ear was greeted with no busy din from anvil or quarry; no whistle from saw or engine. But the wide-spreading woods must have rendered the day lonely ; and the hooting of the owl, the growl of the bear, and the barking of the wolf must have made the night fearfully hideous. Hither came in that early time a few adventurers who opened up a cavern in the earth, or built the rudest log hut in which to dwell. This was to be their future home. There was no cleared land for raising corn. There was no grist-mill within the distance of eight or ten miles. So they were forced for some time to follow Indian trails, or tracks marked by spotted trees, to improved fields where they could labor till they had earned means with which to pur- chase a bushel of corn. With this on the back, they would go to the mill, and, after it was ground, would bear it far away to their homes. When sickness came, what must they have done? There were no neighbors, nor phjsicians at hand. Then, when the dark messenger snatched from their embrace a companion, cliild, or parent, no kind friends were 326 HISIOKV OF MARLBOROUGH. near to divide their sorrows ; no pastor was by their side to point tlieni to the many mansions. Those were hardships wiiich we can bnt faintly understand. Still, they were realities to the few who wore wont to walk throngh these Yalle\s and clind) over these hills a hundred years ay-o. These wild lands, it appears, were set oft' into a township under the name of Monadnock, No. V., May 25, 1752. The townsliip was granted by charter to the proprietors of land purchased of John Tufton Mason by their agent, Joseph Blanchard, to James Morrison, Jr., and thirty-three others, belonging mostly to the towns of Derry and Dunstaljle, N.n. One aecovint says these proprietors soon transferred their right to David Church and others who resided in Marlbor- oiigli and Westborough, Mass. In 17G2, the town was surveyed. In 1764, Se})t. 17, the first family moved into the township. It consisted of William Barker, his Avife and tlu'ee children, who came from Westborough, Mass., and settled on what is called West Hill, now in the limits of Troy. Isaac McCollester with his family moved to town the same year, and settled on the Deacon James Farrar- place. His daughter Dolly who was born Feb. 12, 1766, is sn})posed to have been the first child having birth in the town. Others, also, came about the same time. Abel Woodward settled on what is known as the Joslin place in this village ; likewise Daniel Goodenow, who resided in various localities. In August, 1765, Benjamin Tucker with a large family moved into town, and settled near the Whit- ney and Tarbell Mill. There he kept the first tavern in town. During the next two years, it is evident, more fami- lies arrived: for wlien the first census was taken, which was in 1767, there were ninety-three inhabitants in the township. Of these, sixteen couples were married. In 1775, the second census was taken, showing the population had increased to three hundred and twenty-four, of whom one hundred and forty-eight were females, and one hundred ami I'dui' were males under sixteen years of age. Fifty- lour wtTc upwards of sixteen, and two men were over fifty. TME CKNTKXNrAL (' KLKI'.K AT ION. -rli Sixteen men liad now already entered llie Conl iiicidal Army. Of these early settlers, nearly all caiiic JVdiii old Marlhoron^h, Westboron^'li, S(»iilld)(>ronL;ii, and I'xtltoii, Mass. Tlu'ir hearts were lired with Ihe true spirit ot patii- olisni. At lliis [x'l'iod, the wIkiIc countrN was hcatccl and ready to burst into martial llanics. In this lime (d' liery trials, our native State was reniarkabl}' tree J'roni toryisni. AH were ready to strike mighty blows for freedom. As the ery went forth from Boston on the 19th of April, 1775, pen- etrating farther and farther into the eountry, declaring tliat the British troops were marching toward old Concord, bells were rung, drums beat roll-calls, men were hurrying from all (luarters ; axes were dropped in the forests ; ploughs were left in the fields; mnskets were wrenched from the man- tel-pieces, powder-horns and pouches were shing over the shoulders, blankets were tied to their backs : with faces ex- pressive of courage and determination, might be seen men hurrying to the fields of strife. Though devoted wives and tender mothers wept, yet the}'' bid patriotic hnsbands and brave sons go forth, striking valiantly for God and conntry. It seems but a day elapsed before a vast army was marching, ready to do bloody work at Concord, Lexington, and Bun- ker's Hill. Stark quickl}^ deserted his saw-mill at London- derry, as he heard the booming cannon. Putnam left his plough in the furrow, not even stopping to change his dress, but hurried to the place of carnage. This is a fit occasion for us to bestow fresh tributes of love upon the life of Warren, whose courage and bravery foinid an early grave, but whose memory will live in the hearts of his countrymen. It is just for us to prune and revive the laurel growing by the tomb of a Putnam. It is befitting we should cleanse with the waters of retrosjjection the epitaph inscribed on the monument of a Stark. Let us forever cherish the deeds of the brave men and hei'oic women of that early, critical period. Marlborough with other towns of the Granite State bore its share of hardships in the Revolution. We are assured that no less than fortv-three from our town enlisted to eain 828 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. and maintain our independence. It is said thirt\^-nine who were in the ann^^ afterwards settled in town. One James Lewis served several years as captain in the Revolution. Robert Worsley who was a peculiar though strictly reliable and worthy man, entering the army almost at the first call, was at the battle of Bunker Hill, June 17, 1775. After the evacuation of Boston by the British, a thousand soldiers, under the leadership of Benedict Arnold, left Boston, press- ing their way toward Quebec through the dense wilderness of Maine. Marching to the Kennebec River, thence they embarked in open boats, struggling against current and barriers till they reached the head- waters of that river : thence they bore their boats, heavily laden with army sup- plies, across to the waters of the Chaudiere, following it down to the St. Lawrence, six miles above Quebec. In this perilous march, their sufferings must have been beyond description. They were terribly harassed by Indians; and in the midst of the wilderness, their rations failing them, they were forced, as Mr. Worsley reported, to eat the leather of their shoes and cartridge-boxes. As they emerged from the woods, approaching a settlement, a dog saluting them with a bark, was shot at once. Mr. Worsley says : "It fell to my lot to dress the animal. While I was pulling out the entrails, the famishing soldiers, excited by the scent, snatched away the flesh, leaving for me only Avhat I Avas able to clutch in my hands." Although the flesh was raw, he testified "it was the sweetest meat he ever ate."' In another company, at the same time, he says, " some men came upon the carcass of a hog, which was eaten quicker than he could tell the story."* Verily, were not those the times that tried men's souls? The oppression of the mother country had fired the hearts of our fathers with truest bravery, and moved their minds with the determi- nation to conquer or die. With the boldest stroke of the j)en, those members of the Continental Congress put their names to that immortal Declaration which is being empha- sized to-day by more than forty millions of free people, and is being honored throughout the world. With that Dec- THE CENTENNIAL CELERRATION. 329 laratiou, supported by patriotic fathers, our own " Colony " of New Hampshire was made an independent State ; and on the 18th of December, 1776, our township received from this State, carved out of rocky hills and mountains, its corporate charter as the town of Marlborough. In July of the same year, the " Test Act " was circulated. Fifty citizens signed it, all but one wrote his own name ; while only five refused to put theirs to it. What the exact pur- port of this " Test Act " was, we do not know ; but it is safe to infer, it meant death to toryism and life to freedom. In the war of 1812, jNIarlborough was true to her high behests. At least fourteen brave men went forth from its limits to do their duty, in driving forever British foes from American soil. The bravery and patriotism of the fathers should be held in lasting remembrance. We have reason to feel their mantles have fallen upon worthy shoulders from the loyalty and exalted daring of their sons in the recent Rebellion. In their race with Sheridan to Winchester town, in their unparalleled march under Sherman through the ex- tended territory of the enemy, in Grant's repeated battles in the Wilderness, they proved that the spirit of " 76 " was still rife in American hearts. Our heroes of a hundred years ago, and our heroes of to-day, — may they be loved and hon- ored in all true hearts, and their genius and patriotism will create the noblest heroes of the future ! The ecclesiastical history of this town antedates a little its incorporation. The earliest record we have touching the subject, dates back to 1770, in which year the first meeting- house was raised, and the roof covered. At that raising, the town voted to give Benjamin Tucker 3s. Id. 2qrs. per gallon for eight gallons of rum at "ye raising of ye meeting-house." This house was not boarded till the next spring ; but the first meeting was held in it while the roof onl}' was covered. It is said the outside was finished in 1774; but this probably did not include glass windows or hinged doors, for in 1779 it was voted to put in eleven windows, hang the doors, lay the lower floor, and build the body-seats. To cover this ex- pense, a special tax of eightpence per acre was laid upon all 330 HISTORY OF ISrATJLBOROUGH. ratable lands in town. But the house was not fully com- pleted till 1790. It then had neither steeple nor chimney, and for many years was called the " Lord's Barn." In 1771, a tax of one farthing per acre on ratable lands was raised for the purpose of procuring preaching. A com- mittee of three was chosen, consisting of Benjamin Tucker, Daniel Goodenow, and James Brewer, to hire a minister. It was likewise stated that the preaching was to commence the first of June. It is evident preaching was secured, at least, a portion of the time that year, from the fact that June the 23d three children of Daniel Goodenow were bap- tized. These were the first baptisms in town. We find no minister mentioned by name until 1778. On the 11th of November of the same year, the first church, consisting of eight members, was formed, and at the same time Rev. Joseph Cummings from Topsfield, Mass., was ordained their pastor. This solemn service of consecration, tradition says, was per- formed on a work-bench, there being no desk as yet in the house, while the congregation were seated on loose boards resting on blocks. In these dajs^ people were certain not to go beyond their means, or in any way appear extravagant. This is made evident from the fact that they voted to give their minister, as salary, forty pounds sterling the first year, forty-five the second, and fifty pounds the third, and con- tinue at fifty pounds yearly, till there should be one hundred and ten families in town, and then give him £Q6 ISs. 4d. yearly, so long as he should continue their gospel minister. The above sums were to be made equivalent to rye at Ss. 4d. per bushel. These good people designed that their minister should also have a home among them, so they provided for him the prospective parsonage in this way. He was to have one share or lot of land laid out for that purpose, consisting of a hundred and fifty acres, except four acres around the meeting-house; which were reserved for public use; said land was to be cleared by the town. The pastor also had the privi- lege of cutting tindjer for his house on the ministerial lot. The first parsonage was located a little distance south-west of the Old Meetingrhouse. Just how long it was kej^t as a THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 331 parsonage is not known ; but I am informed it was at length converted into a tavern, — to say the least, a sad terminus for a parsonage. The first church in town was organized as Congregational, and lias continued to be an influential and a successful one' to the present time. Among its revered ministers, the names of Fish and Lj-man are especially endeared to many hearts. The first Methodist preaching was introduced to Marlbor- ough by Daniel Emerson, in 1791. After meetings had been held occasionall}^ for three 3^ears in the house of Mr. Emerson by Revs. Hill, Hall, and Wager, the latter divine pi'eaching an able discourse from the text, " These three years have we come seeking fruit, and found none," formed a class consisting of seven persons. This sect continued to hold their meetings for some time in the same place. At length, preaching was transferred to the residence of Eben- ezer Herrick, where meetings were held on the Sabbath for man}' years. Afterwards they were transferred back to Mr. Emerson's for a while, at which time the first Sabbath school of this society was organized ; thence, for a series of 3'ears, to Thomas White's ; thence to William Greenwood's, and thence to Abner Russell's, up to 1844, when a church- edifice was built at Pottersville, where the Methodist society held meetings for twenty years; then purchasing the Baptist meeting-house of this village, and refitting it, they have continued their Sabbath worship, proving themselves an earnest Christian people. The early Baptists of this town worshipped for many years in Pottersville. At length, they had occasional meet- ings in the Old Meeting-house on the hill, and finally were able to build a house of worship in this village. Among their good ministers settled here, the names of Cummings, French, Danforth, Clarke, and Ware, must be especially remembered by those who listened to their social and relig- ious instructions. Some eighty years ago, the Universalists in town began to have occasional preaching. Not until 1805 was a society formed. In 1851 their church-edifice was erected, and iu 332 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. 1875 lliL'ir cliiucli-orgaiiization was perfected. Among their sainted ministers may be mentioned Baily, Bassett, and Record. It is pleasant for us to realize now the fact that there •never have been any bitter religious persecutions in this town. As a rule, all have been left to choose religiously for themselves with none to molest or make afraid. In this connection, I am pleased to make mention of the worthy sons of Marlborough who ha^'e entered the ministry. Rev. Cyrus Stone was the first one who went forth as a gos- pel minister. Fitted for his work, he sought heathen lands, bearing the " glad news "' to famishing souls. Self-sacrificing in spirit, he spent his life in the Master's service. Rev. Osgood Herrick was another minister who won laurels at home and abroad for his ability and power in the pulpit. Rev. Luther Wiswall who is still laboring as a preacher, has proved himself worthy and successful. He is regarded by his people, where he has been long settled, as a man of culture and sound judgment. He is most esteemed where he is best known. Rev. William C. Whitcomb, of sainted memory to so many of us, was an eloquent preacher and true reformer. Though the destroyer cut him down in his prime, yet his life was earnest, faithful, and full of good works. Rev. Philander Wallingford has long labored as a worth}' Christian minister. If age has written its furrows on his brow, his heart is still young and his mind strong with Gospel truth. Another whose face is familiar to most of us is Rev. Edwin Davis who is known only to be respected for his ability and moral worth. He has already written out for himself an honored name as a Christian minister. John Capron and your speaker, two other clergymen, had their birth in your town. Let the spirit of the Master continue to work in the churches of to-da}^ and they will bless and prosper as never in tlie past, and will hasten the good time when "swords THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 333 shall be beaten into ploughshares, and spears into pruning- liooks." Christians never have gained anything by perse- cuting. Wherein they cannot agree as to the letter, they ought to agree to disagree, and then they would enjoy the fruit of the spirit which giveth life and Christian growth. Of the educational history of the town, you have already in print and circulation an interesting account of your schools for the past hundred years. This supersedes the necessity of my dwelling upon items and particulars. It seems our forefathers in the early settlement of the town took wise forethought, setting apart a portion of land for the support of schools. However insignificant the little seeds which they planted may seem to us, nevertheless, they took root, sprung up, and have produced a hundred-fold of fruitage. Feebly could that first teacher in Marlborough, James Brewer, during the winter of 1770 and 1771, have estimated what would be the result of that little school which he was keeping in the private house of Phinehas Farrar. How grand is the centennial tree which we behold, the outgrowth of that tiny planting I Its blossoming has been prolific, and its fruits are verily manifold. With pride we may look to the schools of our native town. They have furnished more than a hundred and seventy-five scholars who have gone forth as teachers. Well may it be asked, " What other town in New Hampshire, with a population little more than a thousand inhabitants, can show a larger and more honorable list than this?" But none can feel Marlborough has been too liberal in the support of her schools. To this and her religious instructions may be traced, in no small degree, the reasons why so few crimes have been committed within her limits ; why there have been so few paupers ; why, possibly, the town never has been able to support a lawj^er ; why temperance organizations and literar}' associa- tions have been so successful. Had it not been for her schools, do you think she would have sent forth Philip Sweetser, Joseph C. Mason, Luther Jones, Marquis De Lafayette M'Collester, William Converse, as lawyers, who rank high in their profession, and whose future is full of promise ? 334 HISTORY OF MARLBOROtTGS. Hud it iu)t been tor your schools, Hannah Jones, no^v Mrs. Grosvenor, \A'onid not have been tired with an ambition for a collegiate education, which she obtained under difficulties, when it was unpopular for a woman to be thoroughly edu- cated. Neither would Henry W. Greenwood have fitted himself for a first-class engineer ; and man}" others made themselves eminent as teachers, or skilful craftsmen in wood, iron, and stone. Marlborough has furnished her full share of professional men. Quite a number have received a college-education. She has sent forth her quota of ministers, physicians, law- yers, and eminent men. Let her foster her schools, taking advantage of every possible improvement of the age, and the rising generations will increase in love for intellectual culture and moral growth. In this way, new charms will cluster in her beautiful vales, and 'new glories will be re- flected from her lofty and picturesque hills. Often has the remark been made, as travellers have been passing through your town : " How bright and new the build- ings look ! How singular such a thriving village should spring up where the hills and rocks are so numerous ! " Cherish and support your schools, and more taste will be displayed, and greater attractions offered. Let these be what you can make them, and they will stand as beacons upon your hills to reflect honor and glory far and wide. As a great help in this work of education, which gives to the present and the future advantage over the past, is your Free Library, the munificent gift of Hon. Rufus S. Frost, the ex-Mayor of his adopted city, and forever the well-wisher of his native town. That substantial stone structure, quarried from our ledges, and completed in 1866, at a cost of '"§8,000, and furnished with |2,000 worth of books, and 15,000 more funded, so that its annual interest can be used yearly for replenishing it with new books, — all this he presented to your town, in behalf of the cause of education and Chris- tianity. To show due honor and gratitude to the generous donor, let the books in that library be read and studied, — books of history, poetry, biography, ethics, science ; and THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 835 minds here will come in contact with gifted minds elsewhere. Yes, close acquaintance may be enjoyed in this quiet town with Socrates, Schiller, Shakespeare, Scott, Franklin, Whit- tier, and a host of other gifted minds. In this age, for a town to be without a library is like an art-gallery without windows. Books are the glasses through which the young can see the past. Let them carefully and studiously scruti- nize prophets and apostles, heroes and heroines, and they will desire to imitate their virtues, and walk their gilded heights. There is no other such monument to perpetuate noble worth as a choice library. " Blessings be with them, and eternal praise to Him who gives us choicest books and free libraries." From tradition and records, we learn that the long list of physicians who have practised medicine in this town the past century have acted no mean or common part. As a rule, they have been men of erudition and influence. One name among them stands out pre-eminent. The thoughts of mau}^ turn at once to the name of Dr. James Batcheller, who was not only a skilful physician, but a true politician and real reformer. Soon after he settled in the town, he became a thorough-going anti-slavery man. William Lloyd Garrison was his ideal of a moral hero ; and his paper, a perfect paradigm of good news. Though for a long while he was the only subscriber to it in town, still that one copy had a wide circulation. Surely that was the case, if it was sickly ; for, everywhere the doctor went, Garrisonism went. He was a true friend to the sick, the slave, and the good, wherever found. If his eyes 7vere most always shut when he was awake, he saw more than most men. It is said, when he raised the roofing to his brick-house, as the custom was, he furnished plenty of toddy, which made them so merry and jolly thc}^ felt they must toast the doctor, as follows : — " This is the house that James built, With ipecac, tartar, and pills. May he be content therewith, And cure the people of their ills." * *Th8 author was Major WiswaU, 336 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. This same raising opened tlie eyes of the doctor ; and a few years after, when he was buikling a barn, he decided it woukl be raised witliout any rum, but that he would give to all assisting, after the building was up, a good supper. Everybody seemed to be present at the appointed time, and the greatest excitement prevailed. The rum party, includ- ing most present, did not for some time offer to assist; but a few of the doctor's firm friends commenced the undertak- ing, the doctor continuing to assert the barn would go up without any rum, until, at length, cold water conquering, all took hold with strong hands, merry hearts, and steady heads. When the job was done, every one was fed with abundance of beef and potatoes, pork and beans, brown bread and pumpkin pies, cold water and spruce beer, making them more healthy and wise. Thus the good doctor early com- menced preaching and practising temperance, which he con- tinued to do so long as he lived. In this connection, I would say Marlborough has sent forth young men who have become successful physicians ; namely, Drs. Timothy Lane, Jeremiah Stone, Willard Adams, Jairus B. Collins, Augustus Davis, John Q. A. M'Collester, Daniel B. Woodward, and Si"imner Mason. Some of these have become eminent in their profession. As we contrast the present prosperous condition of Marl- borough with what it was one hundred years ago, we can but feel progress indeed has been made. Happy homes are now all around us. How was it when Mr. Robert Worsley paid his first visit to the town prior to the Revolution ? In his own words, he says : " I passed up the middle branch * of the Ashuelot River to the hill between tlie branch and Robbins Brook, where I discovered a deserted log-house on Cooper's Hill. But I continued my journey till I came to another cleared spot, which was afterwards called Ball's Hill, where I found a most splendid growth of hard wood, with some pine, spruce, and hemlock. Here, I felt, was the place for me to settle ; for soil must be good to produce such timber." *Now called Minnewawa. THE CENTENNIAL CELERRATION. 387 So he put up liis log buildings in the wilderness, and began to live. Wild animals then were common. One night, when i\Ir. Worsloy was away from home, a bear took a hog weighing three hundred and twenty pounds from the pen, and, bearing it some distance off, killed it. The next day, the neighbors caught old bruin himself; and he weighed four hundred and twenty pounds. Mr. Worsley speaks of a huge ash-tree, from which they split rails enough to last them for ten years in fencing their extensive lots. Also mention is made of a pine cut down by Silas Rhodes, out of which he split thirty thousand shingles and sawed several thousand feet of boards. These trees must have been similar to those growing in Oregon, which are said to be so tall that one must look three times before he can see their tops. Our ancestors were very social, it would seem, and fond of fun. The English mirth, the Scotch humor, and Irish wit, were sure to express themselves at huskings, trainings, apple-parings, raisings, and night-mowing-bees, where gen- erous hearts and active hands would do their best to bring up the rears of some delinquent farmer. Oh, how the fire would fly, as they swept over the stony fields ! Oh, what stifled laughter at the end of the swaths I And, when the job was done, oh, the jokes, the plays, and the frolics of merriment which were sure to follow ! Those were hale, happy old times, which can never be enjoyed in their hearti- ness again. It is right, however, that recollection should review them, and our hearts be refreshed by — '' Conning them o'er and o'er." Of course, as our fathers came to this country, they neces- sarily brought with them some of the faults and foibles of their native lands. The haughtiness of the English made them overbearing ; the rigidness of the Scotch caused them to be dogmatical ; the disposition of the Irish to wit ren- dered them hilarious and sometimes riotous : but their faults were usually only virtues carried too far. They were posi- tive and substantial in character. They were social and fraternal in their feelings, polite in their manners, and faith- 338 HISTORY OF ]SrARLBOROUGH. ful to their duties. They sowed good seed in the church and home. They hiid a solid foundation on which future generations might securel}^ build. The success of a town depends not so much on great ex- ternal wealth as on the virtues planted in the hearts of the young and cherished in the bosoms of the old. The young grow strong by the hearth-stone consecrated by their fathers' good counsels and their mothers' prayers. All honor should be paid to our noble sires. A century has gone since the wilderness here was first disturbed by the ring of the axe. The last hundred years are full of history. Within that time, five wars have caused these hills and valleys to echo with the blasts of the trum- j)et and the roll of the drum, calling men to arms. Within that time, the Indian has left his once favorite hunting and fishing grounds ; the j^oke of Great Britain has been lifted from our land ; the foot of the French monarch has been forced from our borders ; the Spanish flag within our domin- ion has been trampled in the dust ; and the feeble thirteen colonies have grown into thirty-seven States and ten Terri- tories, netted over with railroads and telegraphs, dotted with cities and towns, having seas and rivers whitened with the sails of commerce from every clime. Here in our own country within the past century, the first steamboat was set in motion ; the first railroad of any considerable length was constructed ; the first telegram was sent ; the first mower was made ; and the first sewing-machine was patented. A hundred years ago there were but four small newspapers published in the country, and less than seventy-five post-offices. The last ten decades have witnessed surely many and great changes. Minds have invented and hands have wrought out wonderful improvements. But there have been other changes in this town, which have been felt more than any to which reference has been made. The first generation of settlers in Marlborough has gone ; only a few of the second remain, who are waiting with us, soon to be called to their fathers. A few more suns will roll round, and they will all be gone, — a noble ancestry, THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 339 bold as the summit of yonder mountain, determined as your roaring Minnewawa, gentle as the brooks purling through your meadows, and as tender as the air that kisses your hills. But the fathers are not wholly gone : their deeds are around us. We know of their thanksgivings to God when their rude homes were lighted up with children fresh from the hand of God ; we know of their deep sorrows as their hearths were darkened and fond ones passed from their siofht. For in their homes were altars of love around which bridal joys were wreathed, and shrines, too, which were often draped with bitterest affliction. But, as we visit their graves, the graves of our kindred, how significant the past ! Thanks be to God, they live ! The stone has been rolled from the door of the sepulchre, and the fathers are clothed with life immortal. Let the influence of the sainted dead rest upon us. May they continue to teach us of their forti- tude in the wilderness, on the field of battle, and in their struggles for liberty ; of their devotion to their homes, their schools, their church and country. Their inheritance is worth all it cost. Their bestowals upon us are beyond the price of rubies. As the grass shall grow green over their graves and the pine sing its requiem above their peaceful ashes, may their lives blossom perennially in the memories of the living, making New Hampshire our Canaan, Marlbor- ough our New Jerusalem, Monadnock our Pisgah, and Minnewawa our Kedron ! A hundred years have gone. A century hence, and the living here will be sleeping with the fathers. But may the precious inheritance which we have received, of freedom, truth, virtue, and faith, be so improved by our diligence, that our children's children at the second centennial celebra- tion of the settlement of our native town, shall be blest with a hundred-fold greater inheritance than we enjoy to-day, and the sons will continue to call the fathers blessed ! Come, Patrick Henry, the eloquent vindicator of liberty ; come, Franklin, the patriot and philosopher; come, Wash- ington, the great general and wise man; come, Jefferson, the judicious counsellor and statesman ; come, Hancock, from 340 HISTORY OF MARLBOEOtJGH. the Continental Congress ; come, Adams, from Fanenil Hall, with thy memory laden with the wisdom of the past and the present; come, Lincoln, the liberator of the slave and the preserver of human rights, — come, all ye national heroes, and teach us anew the worth of national freedom and State government. Come, ye Pilgrims from Plymouth Rock ; come, ye Revo- lutionary heroes, who fought for the rights of State and Nation; come, ye early settlers of our native town, who wrought so grandly for school and church, — come, all ye departed and honored fathers, and baptize us afresh with love and devotion to the mother of our nativity, leading us and our descendants in the ways of faithfulness to her future wants and prosperity, thus adding to her natural charms and glory all the shades and touching beauties of cultured Chris- tian characters. At the conclusion of the address, the speaker acknowl- edged his many obligations to Mr. Charles A. Bemis, Marl- borough's historian, who had furnished him with many historical facts for his address. He also expressed his thanks to Mr. Thomas White, who, unsolicited, favored him with several important reminiscences, and to Mr. Charles K. Mason, who had been untiring in his efforts to lend him all possible aid. 10. Original hymn by Mrs. S. D. Osborne of Keene, read by Rev. E. Davis, sung to the tune of Italian Hymn. HYMN. Composed on the One Hundredth Birthday of the Town of Marlborough. One hundred years ago 1 Swift has thy silent flow, Old Time, rolled on ; Then forests crown tliese hills, These rocks no hammer thrills, No sound of busy mills To man is borne. I THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 341 Rut sti'ong young hearts are there, With wills " to do and dare " ; Trusting in God, They send the fiat forth, That things of real worth Shall have a noble birth On stream and sod. Forests before them fled ; Treasures, from rocky bed. Were brought to light ; The dasliing stream was stayed. Swift wheel and spindle played, Each artisan of trade Wrought with his might. The house of God was reared ; The school, 'mid shops, apjieared To bless the land. Soon from their halls went forth Women and men of worth To every clime on earth, A noble band. We gather here to-day. To gaze back o'er the way. One hundred years ; Each one, with blessings fraught. Teach lis " what God hath wrought," And to us all have brought More joy than tears. And when these vales and hills Have crumbled, and these rills Are hushed for aye. Then we, our earthly lays Exchange, for heavenly praise Will loud hosannas raise At Home on high. 11. Benediction by Rev. P. Wallingford of Claremont, a native of Marlborough. AT TABLE. Blessing invoked by Rev. Moses G. Grosvenor of Troy, Ohio, formerly pastor of the Congregational Church. 342 HISTORY OP MARLBOROUGH. Ample justice was done to the repast by the multitude present, and much food was left unconsumed. AFTERNOON. Order being restored, the exercises were as follows, namely : — Music by the band, '' Marlborough Centennial Quick- step,"' composed by F. C. Hayes. The President then called for the first sentiment, which was as follows : — The Day we celebrate, our Country's Natal Day, the First Centennial of Marlboroufjh, — An occasion of friendly greeting to all, of welcome home to our friends from abroad, of solemn reflections for the past, and of hopeful anticipations for the future. Jairus Collins, Esq., responded to this sentiment as fol- lows : — Mr. President^ Ladies and Gentlemen, — By the invitation of your centennial committee, I am called upon to respond to the sentiment just read: The day we celebrate, our coun- try's natal day, the first centennial of Marlborough, — An occasion of friendly greeting to all, of welcome home to our friends from abroad, of solemn reflections for the past, and of hopeful anticipations for the future. The day we celebrate, our country's natal day. It is well, my friends, in our journe}^ over the sea of life, that we have stand-points on our passage, that we may take a retrospec- tive view. And this is a day eminently befitting such an occasion. It is well that we meet and greet each other with a cordial look and shake of the hand on this our double centennial day, review the past and contrast it with the present. Let us look where we see our national flag proudly waving be- fore us, and read the meaning of those stars and stripes. One hundred years ago, a piece of coarse bunting was flung to the breeze, containing thirteen stars and stripes, — an emblem of a Nation's independence, the signal of the rights of man, a declaration tliat those thirteen States ought to be, ^^i^^.1^^ '^. THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 343 and of right should iind must be, independent of the British crown. Tliis was a time that tried the spirit, the manhood of our forefathers. Though destitute of the comforts, and much more the luxuries, of life, they were equal to the occa- sion ; and by their valor, patriotism, and perseverance, we are here to-day, enjoying the fruits of their labors, being protected in our social, intellectual, civil, political, moral, and religious rights and privileges by a government which tlieir sacrifices, hardships, and sacred devotion to principle achieved, — yea, the best government the bright sun in the heavens ever shone upon. May we ever emulate their devo- tion, their self-sacrificing devotion to principle ; and, while their names may pass into oblivion, let us, on this our coun- try's natal day, commemorate their deeds of valor, and with jo}^ and gratitude in oiir hearts entreat our heavenly Father, by well-ordered and virtuous lives, that he will continue to rule in and preside over the destinies of this our beloved country ! This is our first centennial of Marlborough. One hun- dred years ago, the hardy men and women who commenced the settlement of this town, where are they? Echo answers. Where? Their names are obscured by the lapse of time. Yet in the dim and faded records of the past may be found the pioneer names of the first settlers of our town. Some ten or more years before its incorporation, the names of William Barker, Isaac McAllester, Daniel Goodenough, Benjamin Tucker, Abel Woodward, and Joseph Collins head the list of pioneers in its settlement. From that time to the present day, what changes have been wrought ! To recall some of these, we meet on this occasion. We extend the hand of welcome to all. We greet you, kind friends, witli a thrice hearty welcome. We welcome home our friends from abroad. It is proper that we should welcome you here, to the old homesteads of former days and years long gone by. Although the old familiar farm-houses, fields, and yards, may be dilapidated and tenantless, or occu- pied by unfamiliar forms and faces, still past reminiscences will be revived, and solemn refiections will occupy the mind, 344 HISTORY OF I^rARLBOROI^OH. when we visit tlie scenes of cliildliood and youth, about which so many tender recollections cluster, that we are prone to recall the language of the poet when he says: — " How dear to my heart are the scenes of my cliiklhood, When fond recollection presents them to view, — The orcliard, the meadow, tlie deep-tangied wildwood, And every loved spot which my infancy knew ; " The wide-spreading pond, and the mill tliat stood by it, Tlie bridge, and the rock where the cataract fell. The cot of my father, the dairy-house nigh it, And e'en the rude bucket that hung in the well." We welcome you, friends, to our hillsides, valleys, glens, streams, and old Monadnock's splendid view. We welcome you to our mills, shops, schools, churches, to our homes and hearts. We thank you for leaving your work and homes, to meet with us on this festal occasion, in this beautiful grove, where the spirit of cheerfulness and friendship may mingle, and gladness glow from heart to heart. We welcome the children from our Sabbath schools, and from abroad, to see and hear and partake of the joys and spirit of the occasion. It is proper that the celebration of this day be enjoyed by them, that they should hear from those that speak of some of the hardships, privations, aud sacred devotion to princi- ples of the first or early settlers of Marlborough, when in a state of primeval, unbroken forest. It is well for you to know and all of us to think of those hardy men and women coming into this unbroken, dense forest, following their bold leader, William Barker, and felling the first trees, and com- mencing the settlement ; building for themselves rude log- huts to protect them from the inclemency of the weather and the depredations of wild beasts and wild men of the forests. You, of to-day, might deem this rather an uninvit- ing home. Then view them in later times, in many cases without tlie necessaries of life. They came here to make a home, to build houses, to clear up and cultivate fields, and raise, by the labors of their hands, something on which to live, — here to labor and endure, with a perseverance worthy of our imitation. Here they built, as they progressed, THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 345 lidiisos, felled the trees, estiiblislied scliools, organized (liiirchcs, passed over our hills and through our valleys without highways, travelling by marked trees from place to place, building mills, and thereby improving our water powers, and amid all the trials and hardships improving their mental, moral, and religious powers. And soon we see the fruit of their labors becoming more and more visible, (iradually their encroachments upon the forest shoAV us broader fields, with waving harvests ministering to their wants. We look upon the bending, venerable forms of our fathers and mothers in their rural simplicity of character, with a just and manly pride of admiration, and we and com- ing generations will bespeak the gratitude toward them as public benefactors of our race. If we properly contemplate the great disadvantages which they encountered, and con- trast them with the present state of things, we can scarcely fail to thank God in our hearts that our lot has been cast in more favored times, and that we, enjojdng the necessaries, the conveniences, and even luxuries of life, ]nay fail fully to conceive of the hardships and privations of those hardy pioneers. These venerable men and women, without roads, carriages, or even beasts of burden, bore upon their broad shoulders their grain to the distant mills, guided by marked trees through the dark, thick forest, with a perseverance equal to their task. One hundred years ago, — how changed! The same sun in the heavens still shines benignantly upon us, but the face of Nature a different aspect wears. Our fathers and moth- ers, where are they? Echo answers. Where? View that venerable village of graves (too little cared for) on yonder hill, and those other villages of the dead on our eastern and western hillsides, and the more lately populated cemetery near by, with its three hundred and fifteen silent inhabitants of mother earth, and we have the answer, — Dust to dust returneth, while their disembodied spirits are with Him who breathed the breath of life into man, and he became a living soul. Their primitive habits, manners, and customs have passed away, and given place to others more in harmony 40 . 846 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. with our times ami the progressive spirit of the present age. One hn mired years mark the haml of progress in the arts and sciences, — oh, how rapid! Science has directed the labors of art, nntil resnlts seem almost miraculous. Steam instead of beasts of burden propels our carriages as on wings, on the iron rail instead of over rocks and gravel and through mud and sand. The broad Atlantic's wide expanse is almost annihilated, and the forked lightning is tamed into subserviency to man, and wades through the briny deep, annihilating time and space, to carry messages of friendship and love to the most distant civilized countries. The means of civilization have progressed with equal strides of develop- ment. The rude log hut is exchanged for the modern im- provements of labor and art. The schoolmaster has been among us. But, friends, the great question is. Have the intelligence and virtues of the people kept pace with the visible progress of the arts and sciences? Have the ten talents committed to our keeping been fully utilized, so thai it can be said of us, Well done, good and faithful servants, when the future shall look back upon the past ? One hundred j'^ears, — what changes have occurred in tlic nations and governments of the world! Thrones have tottered and kingdoms fallen, kings croAvned and dethroned. Our national government has arisen through its incipient stages of infancy, childhood, and youth, and passed onward and upward into mature manhood; and, by the labors and persevering patriotisin, under a benignant Providence, our forefathers have bearded the British lion tlirough a Ijloody war of eight years, maintained their manhood in 1812, crushed out the late Rebellion, maintained the liberty and rights of man, and slied a halo of glory for the emulation of the whole civilized world. The second sentiment was read : — O'ur Forefathers, — Austere in their manners, strict in tlie execution of tlie laws and Uic ol)Hcrvance of tlie Sabbath and all religious duties, primitive in their habits and customs, would it not be well for young America to imitate many of their examples, — practise their economy, have the same regard for law and order, and their high sense of honor? THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 347 Song, — " Landing of the Pilgrim Fathers." The following letter from Sumner Frost, Esq., of Derby, Vt., was then read : — Dekuy, June 23. 1S7G. To Charles K. Mason and Others : Gent.*, — Your very kind and flatteriiig invitation to be present at the centennial celebration of tlie good old town of Marlborough on the 4tli of July next, — the town where fivid dawned the light of day upon me, and where are many of n\y earliest and most pleasant recollections, — and assist in commemnratinij the (kiij with appi(i[iriate ceremonies, is this day received. 1 can assure you that it would l)e a great pleasure to me to be present with you on that occasion. My engagements are such that it will be wholbi impracticable. With my best wishes for a complete success, and my kind regards to you and the many kind and loved friends of my native town, T remain. Yours trul3'^, SUMNER FROST. Third sentiment : — The Clitircl), — The great nursery of truth, virtue, and practical Chris- tianity. COMMUNICATION FROM REV. LUTHER WISWALL OF WIND- HAM, MAINE. To THE Co:mmittee OF Invitation : Gentlemen^ — I thank you for the kind invitation to be present and take some part in the celebration of the centen- nial anniversary of the orgaidzation of the town. It is a source of gratiti cation to know that I aiu remembered after an absence of more than forty j^ears. But, while I should be very glad to be with 3'ou on that occasion, the various calls for service nearer home will most likel}^ make it virtu- ally impossible. The sentiment to which you invited me to respond is one very near my heart; namely, '•'-The Church, — The great nurftery of truth, virtue, and practical Christianity."' In re- gard to the true Church of Christ, of whatever name or in whatever clime, I would say: — " One family we dwell in him. One Church above, beneath. Though now divided by the stieam. The narrow stream of death." 848 HISTORY OF MARLBOEOUGH. Most of those members of the great famil}^ when I became a member, now, I trust, belong to the family above. Bnt to confine m3-self, as you suggested, to the history of the Church in Marlborough. I must premise that, with the exception of a few historical dates, I must depend on per- sonal recollections previous to 1834, in which year I left my native town. For while I liave occasionally visited my early liome and have known something of the progress of its civil and religious concerns, yet not so as to enable me to speak of them, among those who iniderstand them much better than I can be supposed to do. Aside from the Congregational Church, there was a Methodist societ}^ organized, as I have understood, about tlic year 1800. It was composed of members living in Mav]])or- ough and in the neighboring towns of Dul)lin and Nelson. Tlieir meetings were held in the eastern part of tlie town. I recollect of occasionally attending their meetings at the liouse of ]\Ir. Herrick. Tliere were several Baptists in town, but I am not aware of any organized church of that denomination previous to 1834. Some of them were connected witli tlie Baptisl Cliurch in Dublin, of which Elder Willard was pastor. There was occasional preaching by ministers of tlie Uni- versalist persuasion, previous to 1820;* but I do not knoAv that there was any organized church or society in those early years, or while I resided in town. Usually, as I recollect, their meetings, which I sometimes attended, were held in the school-house, then standing on the opposite side of tlie road from the present residence of Mrs. Davis. The first preaching by Unitarian ministers Avas in 1823 or 1824, and occasionally for some j'ears afterwards. The preachers were graduates of Harvard College. I think a Unitarian Church of a few meml)ers was organized during those years. I do not know any tiling of its subsequent history. The above imperfect sketch of dirferent denomi- nations will of course be supplemented \)y those now living among 3'ou. • There was a society formed Marcb 29, 180C. THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 349 111 addition to tliese, there was another vohmtary l)nt infoi'iiial institntion, which exerted a great influence in a religious point of view. I refer to a social conference and prayer-meeting lield on Sabbath evenings at the school-house before mentioned. I cannot tell when it began as a regular meeting, but it was previous to 1820, and continued, with occasional interruptions, as long as I resided in town. Usu- ally, no minister was present, and Christian brethren of dif- ferent denominations by turns took the lead of the meeting, in which all who were disposed took part in the exercises of prayer, exhortation, or singing. Among those more or less prominent in these meetings, but scarcely remembered by the present generation, I recol- lect among the Baptists the venerable Deacon Cummiiigs and J\[r. Thatcher and his son Elias, who, I believe, con- tinues to this day among you; also Mr. Samuel Gage and Mr, Clark Mason. Among the Congregationalists were Deacon Kimber Harvey and Deacon James Farrar and his elder brother William, Deacon Simeon Whitcomb and Joseph Frost, Jr. Of the Methodists who attended, I recol- lect but one name, that of William White. I suppose their social meetings were held in the same neighborhood with their preaching service. I can speak more at length of the Congregational Church, of which I became a member in 1822. It was organized in 1778 ; and Mr. Joseph Cummings, a native of Topsfield, was ordained as its pastor at the same time. But people were dissatisfied with his conduct, and he was dismissed after two years ; and the church remained destitute of a pastor for iiearl}^ thirteen years, though they had preaching a part of the time from different ministers. In 1793, Mr. Halloway Fish, a native of Upton, Mass., and a graduate of Dartmouth College, was ordained j^astor, and remained such until his death in 1824, — thirty -one years. To adopt the words of another, wliich are in accordance with my own impressions, Mr. Fish "was serious and devout in his spirit, exemplary in his life, thoroughly orthodox in his opinions, and faitltful as a minister oi" Christ." He was a 350 HISTORY OF ArARLBOROUGH. man of sound jiulgment, but not distiiiguislied for popular pulpit talents. Two years before liis death, a revival of religion brought thirtj^-eight members into the church. About one year after his death, Rev. Salmon l^ennett was installed as pastor, and continued five and a half years, when he was dismissed; and the church was without a pastor until 1835, when Rev. Moses G. Grosvenor was installed pastor. Mr. Bennett Avas an acceptable preacher, and a man of very kind and genial spirit. V>\\t the church and relig- ious matters generally" were in a transition state, and for some years it was impossible to sustain a settled ministry'. In accordance with views generally prevailing at the time of the settlement of the town, and for many years after- wards, the civil authorities regarded themselves as under the same obligation to provide moral and religious instruction as they were to provide secular ov literary instruction, as in our common schools. This, of course, involved a sort of union between Cluirch and State. So it was the town that built the meeting-house, and in coujunclion wilh the Church chose the minister; and his salary was raised by tax on the town, the same as the wages of school-teachers. I do not think there was any law of the State ro(}uiriii<^' towns or churches to support ministers of any particular denomina- tion ; and among my earliest recollections of these matters was this, that any citizen who chose so far to identify him- self with any other religious society as to contribute to its support was released from paying the minister tax. In 1819, the State law Avas changed, so that no man was obliged to pay any thing for the support of religious teaching. A year or two before the death of Mr. Fish, the majority of the people, not being favorable to his religious views, though not agreeing ujxm any other, decidecl, as they had the legal right to do, to allow the adlicreuts of different denomina- tions to occupy their meeting-liouse, each their due propor- tion of time. The proportion assigned to the Congregation- alists was, I think, less than a third. And for several years the old meeting-house was occupied in turns by Tnitarians, Baptists, Methodists, and Universalists, as well as Congre- gationalists. ' t^ Lyt-^Y-^^C^ THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 351 This state of things was not eoudiicive to harmony, or kind feelings among people, nor to the progress of true religion. The (k)ngregationalisU linding themselves unable, under these eircumstances, to sustain a settled ministry, and find- ing also al'ter a few years that they were diminishing in num- bers and pecuniary ability, finally, encouraged by the prom- ise of some aid from abroad, resolved to build a house of \\()rshi[) of their own, and gi\e up all claim to the old house. But there was a difficulty wliieh delayed them for a time. Among the few who were willing to aid, there was a differ- ence of judgment and interest in fixing upon a location. Some proposed a site on the hill near where Dr. Batchcller then lived. Others preferred a site on what was called the Goodenough knoll, near where J. Merrill Davis now lives. According to my recollection, it was only by a plurality of one or two shares that the present location was selected. To account for hesitancy in regard to the location, it must be remembered that within the bounds of the present beau- tiful village there were only a few families, and those, mainly, not in sympathy with the church; nor was there any special prospect of increase. I left town soon after the foundations of the house were laid. Of the history and progress of the Church for the last forty years, I do not feel competent to speak. The Church looked upon it as a calamity and a hinder- ance to their prosperity and a source of great discourage- ment to Christian labor when, more than fifty years ago, they were denied for a considerable portion of the time the use of the house which they had occupied more than forty years, and in which all their religious associations had centred. I confess to have shared in these feelings. But as I now look at it, m view of results, I regard it as a great blessing in disguise, the hand of God being in it. I spoke of the promise of aid from abroad in building the house of worship. Perhaps some would like to know the sources of aid. The first was a subscription of about $1-10, obtained by Miss. Polly Barker, formerly a member of the 352 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. Church, but who had been for some j^ears a resident of Boston, where she obtained the subscription. Through the instrunicntalit}^ of Rev. Mr. Baston, some aid was obtained from Keene. Subscriptions were procured in Nelson, Fitz- Avilliam, and Jaffrey, which were to Ijc paid if the Churcli found itself unable to meet tlie expense of building by the sale of pews or otherwise. My impression is that these were not called for. In concluding, I wish to express my joy that, among the true followers of Christ of different names, there appears to be more harmony and co-operation than formerly. I trust it is so in my native town. To use in substance the language of another, "I think there is a day, not very distant, when from the watch-towers of Asia, once the land of 'Lords many/ there shall roll out the exultant chorus, 'One Lord'; when from the watch- towers of Europe, distracted by divisions in the faith, shall roll up the grateful chorus, 'One faith'; when from the watch-towers of our own America, torn by controversies respecting the initiatory rite of the Christian Church, shall roll forth the inspiring chorus, ' One baptism ' ; when from the watch-towers of Africa, where it is felt as if the God of all the race were not her God, as though the Father of the human family were not her Father, — when from the watch- towers of despised and long-neglected Africa shall roll forth the chorus, 'One God and Father of all'; when the sacra- mental host, scattered over the face of this lower creation, shall spring upon their feet, and, seizing the liarp of thanks- giving, shall join in the chorus with responding angels, 'One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all, to whom be glory, dominion, and majesty and blessing forever ! ' " Music by the band. Fourth sentiment : — The Conirihutious of Marlhnroutih to the Popidntlon of our Large Cities, — Among tliera are men whose untiring business habits have enabled theia to amass much wealth; but their gold has not encrusted their hearts. We trust their liberality and benevolence will continue to increase in a ratio proportionate to their additional means. THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATrON. 853 LETTER FROM HON. RUFUS S. FROST. HousK OF Hepueskntativks, Wasihngton, D.C, June 20, 1876. Messrs. Charles K. Mason, Ciiaiu-es A. Hemis, C. E. IIakov, Com- millee : Gentlemen, — I rejoice tliat the good ]t(>opIe of iny native town are to celebrate the centennial anniversary of tlie settlement of the town on the ith of July next, and sinuiM-ely regret that other duties will prevent myself and wife from participating with them on that occasion. I have always loved Marlborough, and have been proud to call lier my native town. The toast to which you invite me to respond is an excellent one; and, ;is it does not apply to myself personally, T feel all the more freedom in resi)onding to it. Although it is said to be very convenient to have wealth, my own opinion has always been that a good reputation is much to be preferred. I admit that both are desirable, and am glad that so many sons of Marlborough who have remained at home, and also those who have removed to other places, have acquired both. The man who owns his well-stocked farm, and is clear of debt, is a riclier man than he who lives in the city and is frequently taking risks large enough to ruin himself and family, although his yearly income may be much greater than the farmer's. You may ask, is the latter a necessity? I answer no; but with the large expenses of the city is the temptation to take large risks. Hence the ruin of so many. In responding to the toast assigned me, I desire to impress upon the young people of Marlborough the idea that success in life comes only from hard work and strict attention to some chosen occu- pition in life. I believe that these qualities, applied to a well-selected farm, would yield as good an income, with more independence and better health, than the average of other kinds of business away from Marl- borough. Our heavenly Father has given the town great natural advantages, besides the beauty of its hills and valleys. Its water-power, which can be largely increased, gives occupation to many people in the village, while the farmers thereby find a ready cash market for their produce. Let the people of Marlborough, like true patriots, stand by their town, and give their assistance to all its religious, educational, and business interests; and the future prosperity of the town and its people will be secured. With my cordial respect for you, gentlem-en of the committee, and the people whom you represent, I remain, Sincerely yours, etc., RUFUS S. FROST. 47 354 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. Fifth sentiment : — The Future Generations of Marlborough,— ^\».y they emulate the courage, patriotism, aud virtues of the past, now quietly resting beneath the green turf of our native hillsides. Responded to by Rev. J. L. Merrill. Sixth sentiment: — The FUkj of our Union, — A century ago a piece of striped bunting un- furled to the breeze of freedom, now floating on every s(;a, and i)roudly waving over thirty-seven States at home, the shield of liberty, a terroi' to oppression and tyranny. LETTER FROM COL. HENRY W. GREENWOOD OF DUM- MERSTON, VT. PHiLADKLrniA, Juue IS, 1876. Messrs. Chaklks K. Mason, Chaulks A. Bemis, C. E. Hakdy, Coni- mltlee : Dear Sirs, — I regret that I cannot be present witii you and tln' people of Marlborough on the 4th of July, to celebrate the double anni- versary on that day. The wandering life necessary to one of my profession has prevented me from adopting a permanent home elsewhere; and, for that reason. Marlborough and my boyhood haunts have ever held tlu^ memory of the " dearest spot on earth to me," and though family-friends are scat- tered, and the old stone house has passed into other hands, I dearly love to visit " The Harbor," the pet name of my native village. The response to the toast " Our Flag " nuist be a silent wish that it may wave for many centuries over Marll)orough aTid the entire country. Educated in military science, I naturally fell into the rank and file in 1861, and followed the fortunes of the "battle flag " of the army of the Cumberland. (the reunion of which on the 6th and 7th of July at this place prevents my joining you on the 4th). I have wandered under the protection of the dear old flmj over the Plains of the great West, across the Rocky Mountains, through the sands of Southern California, and claimed its protection in foreign lands with a pride that is natural to an American. Ever yours truly, W. H. GREENWOOD. Song, — " Onr Flag and our Nation." Seventh sentiment : — The Primitive Inhahllants of j}farlhorou(/h, — Their simplicity, wisdom- energy, and virtues, were equal to their hardshi[>s, ju-ivations, and toils. May we imitate the former, while we enjoy the fruition of the latter Grod bless their memory. THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 355 LETTER FROM DEA. PERLEY D. STONE OP ADAMS, N.Y. Adams, Jefferson Co., N.Y., June 5, 187G. Chaui-ks A. Hkmis, Chaklks K. Mason, Cyrus E. Hardy, Com- mittee of invitation to attend the anniverxavji of the organization of the good old town of Marlhovomjh, N.H., on the ith of Jul if next : Gentlemen, — Yours of May the 25th was received in due time. I am more than pleased that such a celebration will be had; should be glad to be with you on that occasion, and share with you the pleasures and sorrows that will vibrate in every bosom. Pleasure and sorrow c)ftpn mingle together on such an occasion. But my age and other circum- stances (I now think) will prevent my being present. You wish me to respond as to the first settlers' simplicity, wisdom, energy, and virtues. I would say that they were made equal to their hardships, privations, and toil. Were I present with you, T would speak to you, and have you realize if possible, the township as it was one hun- dred years ago, with its unbroken forests, — those hills and valleys groaning under the weight of those towering oaks, maples, beech, bass, and hemlock, that must fall before the axe, and be cleared up so as to be productive ; and those rocks to be dug out before the plough could turn up the soil, and raise sufficient for the support of those growing families numbering from eight to sixteen childi-en. To accomplish this did require simplicity, wisdom, energy, and virtues ; and, thanks be to God, our ancestors possessed these qualities in a remarkable degree, as is shown by their fruits. They possessed in a remarkable degree educational and religious principles, as is evident from the erection of a house for the worship of God at so early a period, and by planting the school-house in eveiy district, and by the respect shown to the sanctity of the holy Sabbath, sustaining the ministry for all these rolling years. May God blejjs to us, their descendants, the remem- brance of our fathers and mothers, that we may copy all that " was lovely and of good report," and shun all that was wrong, so that we, their descendants, may do good and be useful while living, and die the death of the righteous. Yours truly, P. D. STONE. Eighth sentiment : — Tlie Clergy, — May they, as ever, be found in the front ranks of intelli- gence, vital piety, freedom, anfl practical righteousness. Responded to by Rev. Edwin Davis of Canton, Mass. Ninth sentiment: — The Venerable Men and Women vith us to-day, — With age, the emotional excitements and buoyant blood of youth pass away ; hut the heart of the wise, — the older it grows, the warmer it feels. 356 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. Deacon Abel Baker of Troy sent the following : — Tkoy, N.II., June 2G, 1876. To THE Committee of Invitation : Gentlemen, — I would express to you my sincere thanks for your kind invitation, inviting nie to be present and participate in and partake of the festivities of your centennial celebration in the town of IMarlborough on the 4th of July next. As it will probably not be. convenient for me to be present at that time, let me give you some of my recollections of the events of my early life, which are still fresh in my memory. I was born in that town, April 8, 1707. My father settled and lived on a new farm about one and a half miles east of the old meeting-house on the hill; and, as I attended school in two districts besides our own, I was acquainted with and entertain the greatest respect for my youthful associates in my early life, and formed many acquaintances which I still cherish with profound respect. Among my teachers in the common schools were Esquire Gates, Oapt. Whitney, Thomas Hardy, Eev. Mr. Hand, James Farrar, Asa Frost, ]C. K. Frost, Catharine Newton, Jane Gilmore, and Anna Harvey. And among my classmates were Kev. Cyrus Stone, his wife, Attossa Frost, and t'ynthia Farrar, who, after qualifying themselves by diligent study, went to India to teach the benighted inhabitants of Asia the Christian religion ; and the two last beloved sisters found their last rest- ing place in that distant country. I likewise have a vivid recollection of the old meeting-house on the hill, and our Christian fathers of that day, as they were seated in their square pews; where the people from all parts of the town visited the sanctuary almost every Sabbath ; where the Rev. IMr. Fish explained the Scriptures, and Col. Joseph Frost, with his pitch-pipe, led the choir, which performed the singing, to the grgat delight of my youthful mind. There was also the huge horse-block on the north side of the church, where our fathers, at the beginning of this century and before, after mounting their horses, rode to the block, where their wives or daughters seated themselves on the pillion, sometimes with a child in their anu.s, and away they rode to their homes. This horseback mode of conveyance continued for many years without much interruption ; but a new way of travelling was introduced between 1812 and 1820. The first one-horse wagon I ever saw was owned by ]*]lijah Boyden, innkeeper on the hill, i)i 1812; and in a few years that mode of convey- ance was gene.ral throughout tlie town. And since that time one improve- ment has succeeded another, until we have only to take passage by rail, and the utmost limits of our wide-extemled country are reached in a few days. Then let us rejoice, and bless a kind Providence for all the im- provements which have been niadti during thn hist one hundred years. THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 357 In conclusion, permit me to express my thanks to the Committee of Arrangements, my cordial good wishes to the old survivors of ISIarlbor- ough, my old associates and their successors, while a tribute of respectful memory hovers over the graves of the departed. I close with tlie follow- ing sentiment: — The grand JNIonadnock and Gape Mountains stand as watch-towers near your eastern borders. May your peace, prosperity, and temperance be as enduring as the everlasting hills ! Very truly yours, ABEL BAKER. Tenth sentiment : — Our Reiiolutionary^Soldiers, — Their names may be forgotten, but the fruits of their labors survive, shedding a halo of glory for the people, a prophetic hope to the nation. Col. Nelson Converse responded to this sentiment in an able manner. jNInsic by the band. Eleventh sentiment : — Our Merchants, — May they in the future as in the past be honorable, upright, respected at home and abroad. Elisha O. Woodward, of Grafton, Mass., who for twenty- five years was one of the merchants of Marlborongh, sent the folio Aving letter : — * Grafton, Mass., June 27, 1876. Charles K. Mason, Charles A. Bemis, C. E. Hardy, Committee of Invitation: — Yours of the 6th instant, inviting myself and family to unite with the citizens of Marlborough in their centennial celebration, July 4, was duly received. In reply, I have to say T regret that other duties prevent my accepting your invitation, and sharing with you the enjoyment which the occasion would afford me. Though Marlborough is not my native town, and T am not now one of its citizens, yet my long residence tliere, cover- ing a quarter of a century, and the intimate acquaintance with all its people, which the natuie of my business, to which you allude, was so well calculated to give me, have made the place and its inhabitants, with all that pertains to its and their prosperity and welfare, dear to my heart; and it would give me pleasure to be present, and join with you and those who will again return to the home and scenes of their childhood, in com- memorating, on the one hundiedth anniversary day of our nation's birth, this important event in the history of Marlborough. » Mr. Woodwaid has since returned to Marlborough, and to his former place of business. 358 HISTORY OF MARLBOROUGH. Standing on the dividing lino that separates tlie past from tlie future, memory brings to my mind many changes which have marked the twenty-five years of my residence in your town. But I will not trespass on your time further, — will only say in closing, enlarging a little on the sentiment to which you ask me to respond : — May the merchants of Marlborough of to-day, profiting by whatever is found worthy of imitation in the exiierience of their predecessors, and improving the superior advantages of the ])resent, strive to make their business, and thus make themselves, in the future, as now, worthy of support and respect. Thankiiig you for the very kind and cordial invitation, and wishing you success in all your arrangements, I remain, Your obedient servant, E. O. WOODWARD. Twelfth sentiment: — The Mothers and the Daughters, — The joy and snnsliine of our homes, and the pride of the century. The committee assigned this sentiment to Warren H. Wilkinson of Springfield, JNIass. ; but he, being nnal)le to be present, sent twenty-five dollars to help defray the expenses of the celebration. Thirteenth sentiment : — Our Public Men. LETTER FROM BEN J. WHITNEY, ESQ., OF LITTLETON, N.H. LiTTi.KTON, N.H., June 17, 187G. Gentlemen, — Accept my thanks for your cordial iuvitation to be pres- ent at the centennial celebration of the incorporation of the town of Marlborough on the 4th of July next, to respond to the sentiment, "The Public Men of Marlborough." Be assured it would give me great pleasure to comply willi your invita- tion; but distance, and the liability to sudden attacks of imlisjiosition of persons of my age, admonish me fo forego tliat pleasure. But, permit me to say, a vivid recollection of more than two-thirds ol' the past ceu- tury carries me back to those who are now considered the early inhabi- tants of the town of Marlborough ; and, permit me further to say, the high moral stand taken by the public men of those days lias had an abiding influence on succeeding generations. A defaulter to the town treasury was never known. But one atteni})t, and that an unsuccessful one, has ever come to niy knowledge. I hope many other towns can boast as much, but am sure there are many others that cannot. The first settlers of Marlborougli were mostly farmers, emigrants from THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 359 ]\Iassachusetls, — not men of great means, but industrious, intelligent, and lovers of liberty. According to history, the lievolution found them true to freedom, and ready to fight to obtain it. With resources not abun- dant when it commenced, they were reduced to poverty when it closed. Their fields had lain uncultivated, and Continental paper money had be- come worthless. They were in debt, but not discouraged, aiul, to their honor be it said, by