Rnnk ^ ' TA; References. A Til^rim tlali JB. Court Souse C. Jail I* Bank, E. Church F r^fTi 7%<», ^Market (i. Church H. Forefathers Roch I J . Church 31. Church X. Toor Mouse 0. (^;?,rtrt'/r Vr- Church. 'JiYMOlTTH_ f-^^^&l^ References. A Tilgrim Hall Y) Court Bouse C. Jail D Banh E, Church Y. Tmji/fo:^ Market G. Church H. Forefathers HocU Tj . Church M. Church 1(. Toor House .J). Church ^Cfmrch. ."^ ' '^'^^ Scale,- ,W Rods' to an Inch FliYMOlTTHTftliAltlE , Tt'nitlctoii\i- Liifco^' Bcpiori Hefereiices. A Til^jim Hall ¥). Court Rouse C. Jail I) Bank E Church F. Towm Ho: ,^ Miirket G. Church H. Forefathers Twch L . Church M. Church X. ToorKoiis-e 0. Church HISTORY OP THE TOWN OF PLYMOUTH, FROM ITS FIRST SETTLEMENT IN 1620, TO THE PRESENT TIME: WITH A CONCISE HISTORY OF THE ABORIGINES « OF NEW ENGLAND, AND THEIR WARS WITH THE ENGLISH, &c. BY JAMES TIOlCHER, M^ D. A. A. S. Ask thy fathers and they will show thee j thy elders and they will tell thee." SECOND EDITION, ENLARGED AND CORRECTED*,. BOSTON: MARSH, CAPEN & LYO^N 1835. ^%\\ Entered according to the act of Congress, in the year 1835, by Marsh, Capen & Lyon, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of Massachusetts. PREFACE.. The author of these pages feels great pleasure in acknowl- edging his obligations to the public that the whole of the first edition, consisting of 1250 copies, was disposed of within a few months after publication. The present impression is consider- ably enlarged and improved, and will present a full, and he trusts, a correct narrative of the pilgrimage of our puritan fath- ers, and a just delineation of their characters. From them we inherit civil and religious foundations, incomparably the wisest and best that ancestors ever bequeathed to their posterity. It is from their wisdom and virtue that we derive instruction per- taining to the radical principles which are recognized at the present day as the immutable laws of the rights of man, and their glorious achievements were highly prized and firmly sus- tained by the sages of our revolution, in 1776. Their ardent zeal and heavenly temper prompted them to labor in the peril- ous field of liberty, and their spirits, sustained by a holy trust, must have traced through the eye of faith the glorious destiny of future generations. While we trace, in their struggle for religious and political freedom, our inestimable institutions, and witness that their efforts in the noble cause are triumphant, we almost wish that they might awake to a second existence. But who can know the felicity the good spirits may now enjoy, as from their heavenly seat, they look down upon the scene of their trials, their sufferings, and their death, and see that the land they loved is free and happy ? " Go call thy sons ; instruct them what a debt They owe their ancestors; and make them swear To pay it, by transmitting down entire Those sacred rights to which themselves were born." Jlkenside. IV. PREFACE. To this edition of the work is added a concise history of the aborigines of New England and of their wars with the English, together with anecdotes and biographical sketches of their chiefs. This part of the work comes from original authority, and is closely connected with the history of our fathers while in their forlorn condition. It forms a distinct treatise at the end of the volume. This production is now submitted to the candid judgment of the public ; the materials are derived from the most authentic sources, and are condensed in as limited a space as would consist with propriety and convenience. It is hoped that the reader will not complain of redundancy. Minuteness of detail is indispensable in the delineation of individual character, or in a faithful relation of transactions under the most trying circumstances. Should errors be detected in this compilation, the author would only observe, that perfect works come only from perfect wisdom, but if assiduity and care can bring any work to a respectable standard of correctness, he may, in this instance, have some grounds to hope for public approbation. JAMES THACHER. Plymouth, Sept. 1st, 1835. CONTENTS. A. Adams, John 158 Adams, John Quincy 158, 219 Agawam, (Ipswich) 21 Agawam, (Wareham) 174 Agents for obtaining char- ter 14, 158 Agriculture 312 Alden, John and descend- ants 30, 156 to 158 Alarm in town 45, 174, 208 Alewive Fishery 173 Allerton, Isaac 36, 38, 68, 71, 115 Appendix 299 B. Alms House 172, 337 Anecdote from Hubbard 49 of Massasoit 75 of Indian Magistrate 146 of John Alden and Capt. Standish 156 of Tories 204 Andros, Sir Admund arrives, and his base conduct; he is deposed and imprison- ed 149 to 155 Anniversary of the Forefath- ers' celebration 181, 183, 219 222, 229, 233,248, 254, 255, 256 Anniversary of Independ- ence 249, 251 of Washington's birth day 255 Aqueduct 319 Answer of Boston to Plyra. address 179 Arch Bishop Laud 271, 272 Aspinet, friendly Sachem 41, 57 Assistants 61, 81, 122 Antiquities in the cabinet of Pilgrim Society 258 Atwood, John 85, 86 Ashurst, Sir H. 159 1 Bacon, Rev. Jacob 285 Balfour, Capt. and his officers 205 Bank of Plymouth 239 Old Colony 239 Savings 239 Baptist Society 291 Barque built at Plymouth 84 Barnes, John 128 — Barrett, Rev. Joshua 281 Barrett, Rev. Mr. of Boston 256 Bass abundant in the creeks 58 Battery on Cole's Hill 327 Battle with the Indians, (see Indian history) Bay of Plymouth and of Mas- sachusetts 324 / Beach of Plymouth 328 Beecher, Rev. Dr. Lyman 252 Bell purchased 173 Bell presented to the town 217 Belknap, Rev. Dr. 105, 270 Bigelow, Rev. Jonathan 256 Billington Sea discovered 31 described 320 Billington, John, first offender 37 executed for murder 72 Billington, a boy lost in the woods 40 Birth day of our nation 24 Blagden, Rev. Mr. 256 Bookstore 335 Bounds of Plymouth town- ship 163 , ; Bradford,William,Governor, V his death and character 14, 38 50,61,72,80,100 his monument ^7 his wife drowned 23 IV. PREFACE. To this edition of the work is added a concise history of the aborigines of New England and of their wars with the English, together with anecdotes and biographical sketches of their chiefs. This part of the work comes from original authority, and is closely connected with the history of our fathers while in their forlorn condition. It forms a distinct treatise at the end of the volume. This production is now submitted to the candid judgment of the public; the materials are derived from the most authentic sources, and are condensed in as limited a space as would consist with propriety and convenience. It is hoped that the reader will not complain of redundancy. Minuteness of detail is indispensable in the delineation of individual character, or in a faithful relation of transactions under the most trying circumstances. Should errors be detected in this compilation, the author would only observe, that 'perfect ivorks come only from 'perfect ivisdotn, but if assiduity and care can bring any work to a respectable standard of correctness, he may, in this instance, have some grounds to hope for public approbation. JAMES THACHER. Plymouth, Sept. 1st, 1835. CONTENTS. Adams, John 158 Adams, John Quincy 158, 219 Agawam, (Ipswich) 21 Agawam, (Wareham) 174 Agents for obtaining char- ter 14, 158 Agriculture 312 Alden, John and descend- ants 30, 156 to 158 Alarm in town 45, 174, 208 Alewive Fishery 173 Allerton, Isaac 36, 38, 68, 71, 115 Alms House 172, 337 Anecdote from Hubbard 49 of Massasoit 75 of Indian Magistrate 146 of John Alden and Capt. Standish 156 of Tories 204 Andros, Sir Admund arrives, and his base conduct; he is deposed and imprison- ed 149 to 155 Anniversary of the Forefath- ers' celebration 181, 183, 219 222, 229, 233,248, 254, 255, 256 Anniversary of Independ- ence 249, 251 of Washington's birth day 255 Aqueduct 319 Answer of Boston to Plym. address 179 Arch Bishop Laud 271, 272 Aspinet, friendly Sachem 41, 57 Assistants 61, 81, 122 Antiquities in the cabinet of Pilgrim Society 258 Atwood, John 85, 86 Ashurst, Sir H. 159 1 Appendix 299 B. Bacon, Rev. Jacob 285 Balfour, Capt. and his officers 205 Bank of Plymouth 239 Old Colony 239 Savings 239 Baptist Society 291 Barque built at Plymouth 84 Barnes, John 128 - Barrett, Rev. Joshua 281 Barrett, Rev. Mr. of Boston 256 Bass abundant in the creeks 58 Battery on Cole's Hill 327 Battle with the Indians, (see Indian history) Bay of Plymouth and of Mas- sachusetts 324/ Beach of Plymouth 328 Beecher, Rev. Dr. Lyman 252 Bell purchased 173 Bell presented to the town 217 Belknap, Rev. Dr. 105, 270 Bigelow, Rev. Jonathan 256 Billington Sea discovered 31 described 320 Billington, John, first offender 37 executed for murder 72 Billington, a boy lost in the woods 40 Birth day of our nation 24 Blagden, Rev. Mr. 256 Bookstore 335 Bounds of Plymouth town- ship 163 „ , Bradford,WilIiam,Governor, V his death and character 14, 38 50,61,72,80,106 his monument 327 his wife drowned 23 CONTENTS. , Bradford, William, Deputy Gov. and his descendants 109 135, 159, 161, 169 V Bradford, Major John 169, 170 Bradford, Alden 110, 234, 237 Bradford, William, Hon. 110 I Bradford, Col. Gamaliel 1 10 Bouleil, Rev. Mr. 293 Brazer, Rev. Mr. 254 \ Brewster, William, Elder, his death and character, and descendants 59,88,268, 270 Brimsmead, Rev. William 273 Bridge over Jones's River 169 Bridge over town brook 177 Bridges 323 Brooks and ponds 320 Brown's Island 331 Brownist 262 Brown, John 119 Bugbee, Rev. James H. 292 Burial Hill 323 Bushnell, Rev. Harvey 281 By-law of the town 223 C. Calumnies against the colo- nists 61 Cape Cod first discovered 16 Canonicus, a Sachem, sends a war challenge to Gov. Bradford 45 Card-playing prohibited 104 Carpenter, Alice 109 Carpenter, Mary 278 Careswell, resideHce of the Winslow family 94 V Carver, John, first Governor, death and character, 14, 19, 37,38 Cattle first brought over and distribution of 61, 69 Cedar swamps divided 384 Census at early periods 165 Census of United States 308 Centennial celebration 233 Charter given to Wincob 14 Charter with great seal 79 Charter uniting the two col- onies 159 Chauncy, Rev. Dr. Charles 266 Chilton, James and Mary 30, 95 Christian Society 292 Church, Leyden, embark first in New England 259 their Ecclesiastical Gov- ernment and history 260 send delegates to Salem ordination 71 Churches set off to Duxbury and Green's harbor 267 Church and parish distinct bodies 297 Church membership a quali- fication for freemen 81, 273 Civic Festival 216 Clark, Thomas, mate of the Mayflower 24, 168 Clark,Silver-Head Tom, (see Indian history) Clark, Nathaniel, his history and character 150 Clark's house assaulted, (see Indian history) Clark's lsland,first landing on 24 granted to the town 82 conveyed to N. Clark 151 sold by the town 158 description of 330 Clerks of the town 163 Clifton, Rev. Mr. 259 Close of Colonial Govern- ment 165 Club, Old Colony 180 to 198 Coasting vessels 318 Cobb, Ebenezer 109 Cobb, Capt. Sylvanus 175 Cobb, Rev. Mr. 255 Codman, Rev. John, D. D. 255 Cod Fishery 316 Code of Laws 128 Cold Harbor 20 Cole, Rev. Mr. 2,54 Cole's Hill 28, 174, 199,203, 327 College graduates 306 Colonial confederacy 85 Colony divided into three counties 146 Colony Courts regulated 123 Combination against English settlers 55 CONTENTS. \ Commerce and navigation 315 Commission from King Chas. 1st, instigated by Arch- Bishop Laud 271 Committee of Correspond- ence 196 of Vigilance 203 to regulate sale of spirits 228 Common land reserved to the town 164 Compact of the Pilgrims and names of the signers 18 Congregational Church 260 Constables chosen, and re- fuse to serve 171 Coppin, Pilot of Mayflower 22 Corbitant, Indian Sachem 41, 42 Cordage Company 334 Corn hill 20 Cotton, Rev. Mr. John 123, 136, 168, 273 his letter relative to C. isl- and 154 his death and character 275 276 Cotton, Josiah, Esq. 177, 282 Cotton, Rev. John 178 Cotton, Theophihis 206, 207 Cotton, Josiah, Esq. 178 Cotton, Rossetter, Esq. 178 Col ton, Ward, Rev. 178 Cotton Factories 333 Court-House erected 175, 309 Council of War 87 Cows lost on the passage 72 Cow-keeper paid in corn 86 Cow-yard 331 . Crimble punished for forgery 174 V Cromwell, Oliver, his com- mission to Gov. Winslow 99 \i Cromwell, Thomas, arrives 88 Croswell, Andrew 282 Crombie, William 291 Cudworth, James 115, 136, 139 140 Cushman, Robert 14, 44, 60, 67 Cushman, Thomas, Elder 67, 68 270, 273, 278 Cushman, Isaac 67, 274, 279 Conant, Gaius 281 Davis, Capt. Thomas 214 John, Hon. 214, 234, 254 Isaac P., Esq. 214 Thomas, Hon. 214, 219 Samuel 214, 252 William, Hon. 214,250 Wendall, Esq. 214 Dawson, Capt. skirmish with 208 Days and months numbered 16 Deacons in the first church 298 Deaths among the first set- tlers 38 Declaration of rights 78 Deer in the forest 313 Deer trap set by the natives 20 Deputies first chosen for le- gislation 83 De Razier visits Plymouth 69 Dissentions among the mer- chant adventurers 66 Division of land to freehold- ers 163 Donation to the Pilgrim So- ciety by Judge Davis 254 Donation to the first church by Judge Davis 254, 296 Donation to the first church of a Bible, by Dr. LeBaron 295 Drought, alarming one 59 Duel, first in New England 38 Dwelling houses, number of 309 Dwight, Rev. Dr., his obser- vations 165, 290 Dyer, John 163, 172 Dyer, Mary, executed for Quaker principles 116 E. Earthquakes 82, 176, 178 Ecclesiastical history 259 Eel River 322 Eeles, Rev. Nathaniel 283 EelRiver church and society 291 Electors, qualifications of 81, 159 Ellis, Rev. Mr. Jonathan 281 Embargo 223 Engines in town 320 Everett, Professor 248 Execution of one of Wes- ton's settlers 49 8 CONTENTS. Execution of John Billington 72 of three young men 82 of three Indians 135 of Elizabeth Colson 172 of Mary Dyer 116 of Joshua Tift, (see Indian history) Exploring parties 19, 22 F. Faunce, Thomas, Elder 29, 145 147 his ordination and charge 277 his death and character 284 Ferdinand© Gorges 272 First embarkation of Pilgrims 15 ^^First landing of Forefathers 24 vFirst who landed on the rock 30 First encounter 22 First burial-place 28 First interview and treaty with natives 35 First white child born 23 \ First marriage in N. England 23 First Jury 60 First General Assembly 83 First Meeiing-House erect- ed 271, 295 First patent 58 First prison 83 First water-mill 74 , First selectmen 89 N< First union of colonies 85 First vessel built 84 First post-office 335 First celebration of forefath- ers' landing J81 First General Court under new charter 160 First parish build new Meet- ing-House description and dedication of 293, 294 Forefathers' day, (see anni- versary) V Forefathers' rock 29 enclosure of described 119 Fort erected 48, 72, 77, 85, 137 Fortune arrives with passen- gers 44 Francis, Rev. Mr. Convers 255 Freeman, Rev. Mr. Frederick 292 293 Freeholders granted house lots 28, 61, 163 Free schools 302 French ships wrecked on Cape Cod 20,43 Frink, Rev. Thomas Fuller, Dr. Samuel died Fuller, Samuel and Bridget Fragment Society G. Goodwin and Brown, lost in the woods Goodwin, Nathaniel Goodwin, Rev. E. Shaw Goodwin, Rev. Hersey B. Goodwin, William, and fam- ily 249 Gorham, Capt. John 136 Gorton, Samuel, troubles with 81 Governor and 7 assistants to be chosen in June Governors of Plym. colony Governor Winthrop and com- pany visit Plymouth his death Governor required to live in Plymouth Gray, Edward, and descend- ants Gray, John Great Herring Pond Great storm Gurnet and light-house H. Hampden, John Handmaid, ship, arrives with passengers Harbor of Plymouth Hatherly, Timothy Hayward, Beza Hicks, Dr. Hills High pines Hinckley, Thomas, Governor 145 153. 160 41, 42, 45, 46 284 71 75 120 339 31 231 231 250 81 160 73 74 325 325 321 76 330 52,53 72 324 60, 125 253 206 323 331 CONTENTS. Holly, Rev. Mr. Horace 229 Holmes, Rev. Abiel, D. D. 29 222 Hopkins, Stephen 20, 38, 91 Horses first noticed 110 Horse given to King Philip 111 Hostilities with Great Bri- tain commenced 207 Houses of public worship or- dered 138 House in which the colony court held their sessions 75 Howland, John 128, 273 Howland family, genealogy of ' 129 Hovey, Ivory Rev. 281 Hunt kidnapped and sold na- tives 33, 41 Hymns and Odes 341 Imprisonment for debt au- thorized 125 Indians destroyed by plague 33 Independence celebrated 207 249, 251 Indian Powows curse the English 31 Indian anecdote 75, 146 Indian burial-place 20,22 Indian chiefs acknowledge themselves loyal subjects of King James 42 Indian overseers and consta- bles to be chosen 145 Indian lands purchased 138 Indian massacre in Virginia 48 Indians sold for slaves for theft 139 Inhabitants disaffected to the common cause 204, 209 Inhabitants divided into clans to raise soldiers 212 Inquest on dead bodies or- dered 125 Inhabitants required to bring bills of estates to the raters 124 Insurrection by Shays 214 Iron manufactory 332 lyanough, Indian Sachem 41, 57 Jackson, Abraham 163 Jail of the County 309 Jenney, John 84 Jones, master of the May- flower 15, 19, 49 Jones's River 170 Jones's River Parish set off 172 Jones's River Meadow 164 Judson, Rev. Adoniram 291 K. King James refuses a char- ter to the puritans 14 King Charles II. issues a commission to hear and determine complaints and appeals, &c. His Majes- ty causes letters to be ad- dressed to the government of New Plymouth, &c. Propositions made to the General Court. Thomas Willet chosen to confer with the commissioners 120 Court's answer 120 His Majesty addresses a second letter to the gov- ernment, approbatory of their conduct, and censur- incf the Mass. colony 122 Kendall, Rev. James, D. D. 236 289 Kingston set off from Plym. 172 Kirkland,Rev. John T., D. D. 283 L. Labor and recreation forbid- den on Fast and Thanks- giving days 145 Lafayette, correspondence with 246 Land allotted to settlers 163 Laws and penalties 78, 80 Laws of the colony revised 116 128 against the Quakers 111 to 116 against strong drink 138 against sale of tea 197, 200 against smoking in the street 223 10 CONTENTS. Laws regulating ihe Indians 145 Lawyers who have resided in town 308 Le Baron, Dr. Francis and descendants 167 Leonard, Rev. Nathaniel 280 285 Lincoln, Hon. Levi 237 Lincoln, Hon. Solomon 255 Little, Rev. Ephraira 279 Lothrop, Isaac, Esq. and de- scendants 175 Lothrop, Isaac, Esq. 224 Lothrop, Nathaniel, M. D. 251 Lyford, John 62 to 65 Leyden church 68 thirty-three families arrive 71 another portion arrive 72 M. Magee, Captain, awful ship- wreck of 210 Manly, Captain 208 Manomet 51, 68 Manufactures 332 Market 337 Massachusetts tribe of In- dians 43, 45 Mary Fisher and Ann Aus- tin 116 Mather, Rev. Dr. Increase 159 396 Massasoit, Indian King 34, 35 38, 39, 46, 47, 52, 83 Mayflower,her voyage across the Atlantic,arrives atCape Cod, and names of her pas- sengers 15, 16, 18 enters Plymouth harbor 26 returns to England 37 Merchant adventurers 66 Memorial, New England's 126 148 Meeting-House erected 271, 277 Meeting-House struck by lightning 296 Militia of Plymouth 332 Ministerial house built 120 Minute companies organized 201 206 Monk's hill 208 Monumental edifice erected 244 310 articles deposited under the corner-stone 245 Manomet Ponds parish set off 173 Morton, Capt. Nathaniel 207 Morton, Nathaniel, secreta- ry and town clerk 139, 147 Morton, George, and de- scendants 147 Morton, Thomas 71 Murdock, John, his donation to the town 176 N. Names of the passengers in the Fortune 44 Names of those who landed on Clark's island 23 '^ames of early settlers 300 of those who have deliv- ered addresses 339 Nauset tribe of Indians 33, 41 Jelson, Capt. Horatio 213 evv Plymouth, first named 28 New England Society in N. York 221 Newspapers 334 Non-intercourse with Eng- land 196 Norton, Rev. John 266 Nicholson's boarding house 335 Number of rateable polls 390 Norton, Humphrey, audaci- ousness of 112 O. Observations relative to first settlers 299 Old Colony Club 180 Old Colony Peace Society 338 Oldham, John 62 to 65 Oldest grave stones 325 Orders by council of war 87 Oyster bed 170 P. Packard, Rev. Mr. 281 Paddy, William 84 Pamit River 20 Paragon, ship, arrives 58 Parsonage house given toMr. Cotton 136 CONTENTS. 11 Partridge, Rev. Moses 281 Patent obtained by Wincob 14 Patent fraudulently obtained by Pierce 58 Patuxet 33 Pecksuot, killed by Standish 56 Penalties provided 82 Pequot tribe of Indians 82 Penalty for refusing to serve • as Governor 74 Philip makes friendly profes- sions 118 Philip and his brother re- ceive English names 119 Philip's war 135 Phipps, Sir William, arrives 159 Physicians who have resided in town 307 Pilgrim Hall 244, 310 Pilgrim Society 333, 337 Plain Dealing 134, 323 Plymouth, boundaries of 163 declaration of rights 78 laws 78, 116 Plymouth colony divided into 3 counties 146 Plymouth council 79 Plympton set off from Ply- mouth 164, 169 Pokanoket, seat of Massa- soit, visit to 38, 52 Poor provided for 84, 146 Price of produce regulated 158 \Prince, Governor, Thomas 66, 75 82 his death and character 134 Public worship to be support- ed 138 Public buildings 300 Punishments inflicted 37, 38, 78 90,117,118 Puritans 14 a. Quadequina, Indian chief 34 Quakers intrude themselves 111 R. Rates imposed 124 Religious tenets of Ply- mouth e an fathers 265 Representatives of Old Col- ony 161 Reward for killing wolves 89 for killing wild cats 172 for killing rats and black- birds 174 Rayner, Rev. John 266, 271 Rider, John, kills 3 deer at one shot 314 Robinson, Rev. John 14, 66 his farewell sermon 262 his farewell letter 263 his death and character 263,264 his widow and son Isaac 67 Robinson, Isaac 115, 116 Robinson Congregational Church 292 Robbins, Rcv.Chandler, D.D. 285 his ordination, death, and character 286, 287 Rock, forefathers', and mon- umental enclosure of it 29, 198 199 S. Sacrifice rocks 323 Samoset visits the settlers 33, 34 Sampson, Capt. Simeon, and descendants 215 Sampson, Zabdiel, Esq. 251 Saquish 330 Sargent's picture 249, 257 Sassaman, John, murdered, murderers executed 135 Scammel, Alexander 186 Secretaries of the colony 161 Selectmen first chosen 89 office and duties of 123 Selectmen required to reg- ulate disorderly and idle persons 123 Settlers examine the harbor 24 lose their common house by fire 31 Sever, William. Esq. 195 Shaw, Ichabod 242 Shallop of Mayflower expos- ed to imminent danger 20, 22 Sheep pasture 331 Ship building 334 12 CONTENTS. ' Ships Ann and Little James 58,60 Shipwreck at Cape Ann 77 Shipwreck of Capt. Magee in Plymouth harbor 210 of Hibernia, Capt. Farrel 219 Shirley, James 69 Sickness among the settlers 32,75 Smith, Rev. xMr. Ralph 71, 266 Smith's statistical account of Plymouth 65 Societies in town 337 Souther, Nathaniel 161 Southworth, Thomas 108, 126 Southworth, Constant 108, 127 Southworth, Mrs. Elice 107 South pond 320 Speedwell proves unfit for the voyage, and is relin- quished 16 Spooner, Ephraim 28,29,222 229, 231 Sprague, Samuel 161 Squanto, Indian 34, 45, 46, 47, 50 Stacy, Rev. Joseph 280 Stages 335 Stamp act 178 Standish, Capt. Miles 17, 19, 32 42, 45, 50, 51, 6Ci his death and character 111 113 Stone arch bridge 323 Strawberry hill 323 Steam boat 318 Stetson, Rev. Seth 281 Stocks and whipping post 81 Stores and warehouses 319 Storm, tremendous one 77 Streets and squares 310,311 Style, old and new 16 Sullivan, Hon. William 254 Synod 373 T. Tar making prohibited 128 Taverns 335 Tea, sale of prohibited 197, 200 201 Temperance societies 337 Thacher Anthony 77 Third Church and congrega- tion 290 Thomas, Col. Joho 90 Thomas, Nathaniel 90, 170 Thomas, William 90 Thomas, Dr. William 90, 218 Thomas, Joshua, Hon. 238 Tisdale, Samuel T. Esq. 200 Tonnage 316 Topography and statistics 308 Tories and Whigs 203 Town clerks ordered to be chosen 88 Town clerks, list of J 63 Town, spirited conduct of 198 202 Town council 145 Town brook 321,322 Town petitions Congress to repair the beach 242 petitionsLegislature to pro- hibit fires in the woods 242 Town reduced to great difii- culties 209, 212 Town expenses 309 Town, description of 309 Town instructs representa- tives 201, 202, 208 Town votes against the sale of spirituous liquors 242 Town square 311 Town votes thanks to the town of Boston, and in fa- vor of the clergy 200 Town votes to build a new court-house 175 Town petitions against em- bargo and war 223 Town defends its right to Clark's island 151 Town treasurers 161 Training Green 311 Treaty with Massasoit 35, 36 U. United colonies of NewEng- land 85 Universalist Society 292 W. Wadsworth, Peleg 184 Walley, Rev.Mr. 273 Wampum 70 Wampum's war 170 CONTENTS. 13 Warren, Richard, his wife and descendants 70 Warren, James 170 Warren, James, Hon. death and character 224 Warren, Henry and James 226 War, American, termination of 213 War of 1812 227 Washey, Chinese gentleman 227 Wareham set off 174 Washington, death of noticed 217 Watch-house on Fort Hill 86,137 Watson, John and son, death of 173 Watson, George, death and character 217 Watson, William, death and character 228 Watson, John 234, 244, 250 Watson's Hill 35 Wattawamat 51, 56 Webster, Daniel, Hon. 233 Weetamore, squaw Sachem 124 Wessagusset 48 West, Frances 58 Whales in the Bay 21 Whale marked, but escaped 173 Whale fishery 317 Wharves 319 Whitfield 284 White,William,and descend- ants 23 White, Peregrine 23, 124 White, Susannah 23 Hannah 23 Gideon 23 Whitmore, Rev. Benjamin 291 Williams, Roger 266 Williams, James Rev. 273 Winslow, Edward, Got. 23, 35 47, 52, 53, 61, 74, 76, 88, 90 to 103 Winslow, Josiah, Governor, 139 his death and character, &c. to 144 Winslow, General, John and descendants 143 Wilson, Rev. Mr. 73 Winthrop, Governor, visits Plymouth 73 his death 89 Wolves and wolf traps 86, 89 Wiswall, Rev. Mr. 159 Willet, Thomas 120 CONTENTS OF INDIAN HISTORY. American Indians described; their dress, women, attachment to their children, 355. Wigwams, food, education, occupation, drunk- enness, war weapons, 356. Formidable appearance when arrayed for war ; war dance and smoking war pipe ; mode of warfare ; cruel treatment of prisoners ; mode of scalping, 358. Gravity of deport- ment, public speaking, hospitality, implacability to enemies, religion, priests or pawaws, 359. Form of Government ; Paniese attempts to christianize them ; anecdote of Indian Deacon ; of Naughaut, 361. Anecdote of an Indian and Lieut. Governor Dudley, 362. Anecdote of two Indian chiefs, 363. Wampanoags or Pokanokets ; Massasoit, their chief; his life and character, his interview with Gov. Carver, and a treaty formed, 365. Winslow and Hopkins visit Massasoit, and carry him a laced coat. Winslow and Hampden visit Massasoit when sick; Massasoit informs of a combination against the English, 365. His great aversion to the Christian religion ; he and the Nar- ragansets implacable enemies ; he and his son renew their treaty with the court, 366. Ousamequin sells to Capt. Standish a tract of land. Capt. Thomas Dermer visits the country of Massasoit and brings Squanto, who had been kidnapped, 366. The Pequods, their dreadful slaughter of men, women and children, and their tribe van- quished by the English, 367. The Narragansets, Canonicus, their chief; his friendship for Roger Williams, 368. He sends a war chal- lenge to Governor Bradford, 369. Potok, an active warrior, taken and executed, 369. Massachusetts tribe ; Chickataubut, a Sachem of note ; his visit to Gov. Winthrop, 370. Awashonks treats with the court ; her letter to Gov. Prince. She unites with Philip in the war with the English, 371. Capt. B. Church rashly visits her camp, and is exposed to the utmost danger. His uncommon boldness and pres- ence of mind. His complete success in detaching her from the war, 373. Corbitant,a distinguished Sacbem ; the Nausets, Aspinet their Sachem. Canonchet, a great warrior ; he submits to the sentence of death with great firmness, 373. Alexander, son of Massasoit ; account of his life and unfortunate death, 374. King Philip, and Philip's war. His interesting history, 376. His interview with Gov. Prince, at Taunton, and his haughty demeanor. They hold a con- ference, under arms, in Taunton meeting-house, 377. Philip agrees to articles of accommodation, 378 ; his letter to Gov. Prince, 379. John Sassamon murdered ; his murderers tried, condemned, and exe- cuted ; thejuiy who tried them, 381. Philip's war commences ; Eng- CONTENTS OP INDIAN HISTORY. 15 lish troops raised, and Gen. Joseph Winslow appointed chief com- mander ; his instructions and orders, 382. Narraganset tribe form alliance with Philip, 384. The English troops prepare for battle. Philip's fort and camp described. Gen. Winslow's army marches to attack the enemy ; the conflict is awful ; two captains and a number of men are killed at the first onset ; the English fall back, but again rally, and renew the attack, and gain the victory, with immense slaughter of men, women and children, 385. Result of the memo- rable Nartaganset swamp fight, 386. Extreme suffering of Gen. Winslow's army, 387. Predatory warfare kept up by the Indians ; Clark's house assaulted and the people slaughtered, 387. Bravery of Capt. Church, 388. Philip attempts to surprise Taunton. He loses many of his men, with his wife and son captured, and is himself driven into a swamp, 388. Philip is killed, beheaded, and quartered ; his character, 389. Great sacrifices of the English, 390. Uncharita- ble remarks of Dr. Mather, 391. Treatment of Indian prisoners, 392. Capt. Church boldly resolves to hunt in the forest for Anna- wam ; finds him in his den and captures him, 393. Annawam makes a speech, and delivers to Capt. Church King Philip's regalia, 394. Josselyn's account of Philip and his dress, 394. Annawam beheaded atPlymouth, and Tispiquin put to death contrary to the entreaty of Capt. Church and the laws of honor, 395. Cruel treatment of Phil- ip's son, 396. Anecdote of King Philip ; Roger Williams's letter in favor of the Indians, 397. Sam Barrow executed, 397. Anecdote of Indian Sachems, 398. Extract of a letter from Capt. Gerrish, 399. Curious letter. 399. HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. PART I. The imperious causes, justly assigned by the Pilgrims for their abandonment of their native country, and the numerous cruel obstacles, which they were called to encounter, even in their attempts at emigration, have been at various periods, and by the pens of able historians, promulgated to the world. I shall there- fore omit these particulars without apology. It was in the reigns of Queen Elizabeth, King James and Charles the First, that the wicked dominion of tyranny and oppression, both in church and state, had become so intolerable, that a portion of their subjects in the north of England, were compelled to aban- don the soil of their fathers, and subject themselves to the mis- erable condition of exiles in a foreign land. This little band of pilgrim brothers, cheerfully sacrificed all they held dear in their native land, for the inestimable enjoyment of civil and religious liberty. They constituted themselves into a church, of which Mr. John Robinson was the pastor, and under extreme embar- rassment and difficulty, effected their emigration to Hol- land, and took up their residence in the city of Leyden, in the year 1610, where they remained in peaceful and quiet enjoy- ment about eleven years. Having numerous and insurmounta- ble objections to the country of the Dutch, as a permanent resi- dence for themselves and posterity, they deliberately decided on the ever memorable enterprise, of transporting themselves to this remote and unexplored region, where they might enjoy their worship, and opinions unmolested; well aware, that their religion and virtue might make the wilderness, and the solitary place be glad, and the desert rejoice, and blossom as the rose. And where, I would ask, is the event in Divine Providence, more worthy of particular and grateful commemo- ration ? It is a delightful task to retrospect to those interesting scenes, where in every step we can discover a christian faith, and holy 2 14 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1617, 18, 19 zeal, and in every exigence the guidance and protection of Al- mighty power and wisdom. While the establishment of a colony, and an independent church, were their primary objects, it was or- dained by God, that our fathers should be, in silence and in peace, the founders of a nation. It is my agreeable employment to search the records of our ancestors, and collate the memo- rials of their cheerless days, to follow our pious fathers, and their immediate descendants, through the vicissitudes of two centuries, and compare their forlorn condition with the improv- ed state of society in our own times. Not a step do we take, but we trace the footsteps of the pilgrims; our possessions were their possessions; not the town only, but the whole country is a monument of their noble sacrifices. In portraying the history of the town, we disclose the essential elements of the puritan character, and demonstrate the magnanimous spirit, by which the puritans were actuated and sustained. In the year 1617, the church under Mr. Robinson, employed Mr. Robert Cush- man, and Mr. John Carver, as their agents to the Virginia Company, to obtain a grant of territory for settlement, and, at the same time, security from the king, that they should enjoy religious freedom. They met with many impediments, and returned in May, 1618, with encouragement from the Vir- ginia Company relative to a grant of territory, and a simple pronyse, on the part of the crown, 'that the king would connive at them, and not molest them, provided that they carried peace- ably ; ' but toleration would not be granted by public authority under his seal. In February, 1619, Mr. Cushman and Mr. Bradford were despatched on the same business. After long attendance, they obtained a patent, which was then taken out in the name of John Wincob, a religious gentleman in the family of the Countess of Lincoln, who intended to accompany them, but was providentially prevented. This patent, therefore, was never used, but carried, however, to Leyden for the people, and such friends and merchants as should adventure with them, to consider, with several proposals for their transmi- gration made by Mr. Thomas Weston of London. Finding all their efforts for obtaining a patent adequate to their wants and circumstances fail them, they negotiated with the Virginia Company for a tract of land within the limits of their patent, and resolved to commit themselves in faith and confidence to the protecting arm of Almighty power, and encounter the perils of the ocean, directing their course to Hudson's river. Their sufferings and perils during the voyage, and after their arrival, were unparalleled, but they were supported by a noble fortitude and a consciousness of a faithful discharge of religious 1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 15 duty. ^ Of all the monuments/ says an elegant writer, ^ raised to the memory of distinguished men, the most approptiate, and the least exceptionable, are those whose foundations are laid in their own works, and which are constructed of materials, sup- plied and wrought by their own labors.'* It is incumbent, therefore, on the historian, to transmit faithfully and impartially to posterity the genuine materials, that the noble fabric may with facility be constructed and rendered conspicuous. If the glorified spirits of our forefathers can be supposed sensible to what passes in this world, where they acted their part, they must enjoy the most sublime recompense, in the knowledge that, by the wisdom and goodness of God, the little band of pilgrims have been multiplied to millions, and that their posterity are per- mitted to assemble in superb edifices to sing their maker's praise, and recount the toils and virtuous principles of the pious founders of our empire. The vessels designed for the transpor- tation of the emigrants across the Atlantic, were the Speedwell, of 60 tons, of which Mr. Reynolds was master, and the May- flower of 180 tons, of which Mr. Jones was master. A govern- or, and two assistants were chosen for each vessel, whose duties were to preserve regular order among the passengers, and direct the disposal of the provisions, and other necessary concerns. The emigrants being prepared for their departure, the Speedwell received them on board at Delfthaven, in Hol- land, July 22d, 1620, and proceeded to Southampton, in Eng- land, where they found the Mayflower prepared to accompany them. At the quay at Delfthaven, a multitude of people assem- bled to witness the embarkation of the first company destined to people the new world, and to unite their sympathies and prayers for their safety and prosperity. At the moment of their going on board, Mr. Robinson fell on his knees, and with eyes overflowing with tears, in a most fervent and solemn prayer, committed them to their Divine protector. " The winds and waves are roaring : The pilgrims met for prayer ; And here their God adoring, They knelt in open air." Whose imagination can paint a scene so vibrating to the chords of sympathy? Parents and children on bended knees, imploring the protection of heaven, when about to be separated forever from their dearest friends and possessions, and go they know not whither! * Hon. Josiah Quincy, in the life of his father. 16 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 The two ships sailed from Southampton in company on the 5th of August, 1620, but they had not proceeded far, when the Speedwell was found to be too leaky to perform the voyage, and both vessels put into the harbor of Dartmouth, where the leaks were stopped. After which, they again proceeded on their voyage, but the same vessel again proved unseaworthy, and they both repaired to Plymouth harbor, where the Speed- well was discharged from the service, and all those who were unwilling to proceed on the voyage were dismissed with the Captain of the Speedwell, who, from bribery, probably, proved himself unfaithful to his trust, and the whole company was crowded into the Mayflower. This ship, after many disheart- ening vicissitudes, sailed from Plyrpouth, the last English port, September 6th, 1620, but, on her voyage, had to encounter contrary winds and boisterous storms, by which she suffered great damage, and was exposed to imminent danger. With much difficulty, she was repaired at sea, and enabled to per- form the voyage. The adventurers made the land of Cape Cod, * the 9th of November. After some deliberation between the master and passengers, it was resolved to tack about, and di- rect their course to the South, according to their original destina- tion to Hudson's river. But soon finding themselves among dan- gerous shoals and breakers, and the season being far advanced, they abandoned this design, and on the 11th of November, Old Style, "I" anchored safely in the harbor of Cape Cod, being in number 101 English settlers, including 28 females, who * Cape Cod received its name fi-om Captain Gosnold, who caught abundance of Codfish there when he discovered it in 1602. f Explanation of Old and New Style. \/ The correction of the Calendar by Pope Gregoiy, in 1582, was not adopted by the British Parliament till 1751, when it was directed that eleven days in September, 1752, should be retrenched, and the third day of that month reckoned the fourteenth. This mode of reckoning was called JVew Style, or the Gregorian account, and the year was made to commence on the fii-st of January, instead of the 25th of March, as formerly. The Old Style, or Julian account, is so called from Julius CcBsar, who regulated the Calendar about 40 years before Christ. Before the year 1752, there was sometimes a confusion in dates, being difficult to determine, whether January, Februaiy, and a part of March closed the year, or began the new- one. Hence the mode of double dates, as March 20th, 1676-7. This would be 1676, Old Style, because it would lack five days to complete the year, but in the New Style it would be 77, because, according to that style, the year commenced the first day of January, and Mai'ch would be the third month of the new year. The double dating has not been practised since the year 1752. In the Massachusetts Colony, our ancestoi-s numbered the days of 1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 17 accompanied their husbands, and 42 children and servants. The number of males qualified to act in state affairs being for- ty-one. On their arrival, their spirits aspired to heaven, and falling on their knees, they blessed God, who had brought them over the furious ocean, and delivered them from many perils and miseries. The original destination of the settlers was Hud- son's river, that they might be within the Virginia patent; but according to the positive assertion of Secretary Morton, the (^tain was bribed by the Dutch Governor to conduct them to New England, and thereby place them beyond the protection of any English charter. This Providential event, however, proved auspicious to their enterprise and future prosperity, as the na- tive inhabitants of the place had been destroyed by pestilence a few years before, whereas the natives at and near the Hudson, were so numerous, that a landing there would have proved ex- tremely hazardous, if not absolutely impracticable. * On the day of their arrival at Cape Cod, they landed 15 or 16 men, headed by Captain Miles Standish, well provided with arms, to procure wood, and to reconnoitre the place. They immediate- ly commenced repairing their shallop, that they might explore the harbors and shores. Well apprised of the value and neces- sity of a form of civil government to restrain the vicious and strengthen their momentous undertaking^, these honest-hearted people, before leaving the cabin of the Mayflower, but not be- fore solemnly invoking the Throne of the almighty, unanimous- ly subscribed to the following judicious compact providing for equal and social rights, and promising subordination and obe- dience to the laws. This first essay in the civilized world to found a republican constitution of government, ought in justice to immortalize the names affixed to the instrument which has proved the charter of our liberties. the week, beginning as the 1st, 2d, 3d, &c. to the 7th, which is Sat- urday, and the mouths, according to the Roman Calendar, beginning with'March as the 1st, 2d, 3d, &c. to February, because they wished to avoid all memory of, or reference to, heathenish and idol names. * November, 17th, 1620, William Butten, a youth, and servant to Samuel Fuller, died at sea, bemg the only passenger who died on the voyage. December 15th, died, Edward Thompson, servant of Mr. White, the first death afi;er their arrival at Cape Cod. December 17th, died, Jasper, a son of Mr. Carver. ". 18th, drowned, Dorothy Bradford wife of Mr. Wm. B. " 19th, died, James Chilton. January 1st, 1621, died, Richard Britterige, the first who died in Plymouth harbor. 18 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 'In the name of God, Amen. We whose names are under- written, the loyal subjects of our dread sovereign lord, King James, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ire- land, king, defender of the faith, Slc, having undertaken for the glory of God and advancement of the christian faith and honor of our King and country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia, do, by these presents, solemnly and mutually, in the presence of God and of one another, cove- nant and combine ourselves together into a civil body politic, for our better ordering and preservation, and furtherance of the ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof, do enact, constitute, and frame such just and equal laws and ordinances, acts, constitu- tions, and offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the general good of the colony, unto which we promise all due subjection and obedience. In witness whereof, we have hereunto subscribed our names, at Cape Cod, x^the 11th day of November, in the year of the reign of our sove- reign Lord, King James of England, France and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth, Anno Domini, 1620.' This compact was subscribed in the fallowing order by No. in Family r. No. in Famil Y- Mr. John Carver,! 8 * Thomas Rogers, 2 Mr. William Bradford,! 2 * Thomas Tinker,! 3 Mr. Edward Winslow,! 5 * John Ridgdale,! 2 Mr. William Brewster,! 6 * Edward Fuller,! 3 Mr. Isaac AUerton,! 6 * John Turner, 3 Capt. Miles Standish,! 2 Francis Eaton,! 3 John Alden, 1 * James Chilton,! 3 Mr. Samuel Fuller, 2 * John Crackston, 2 * Mr. Christopher Martin,! 4 John Billington,! 4 * Mr. William Mullins,t 5 * Moses Fletcher, I * Mr. William White,! 5 * John Goodman, 1 (Besides a son born in Cape * Degory Priest, 1 Cod harbor, and named * Thomas Wilhams, 1 Peregrine) Gilbert Winslow, 1 Mr. Richard Warren, 1 * Edward Margeson, 1 John Howland, (of Carver's Peter Brown, 1 family,) * Richard Britterige, 1 Mr. Stephen Hopkins,! 8 George Soule, (of Edward * Edward Tilly,! 4 Winslow's family) * John Tilly,! S * Richard Clarke, 1 Francis Cook, 2 1 Richard Gardiner, 1 t Those with this mark brought their wives. * Those who died before the end of the next March are distin- guished by an asterisk. 1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 19 No. in Family, ter, (both of Stephen Hop- kins's family.) No. in Family. * John Allerton, 1 * Thomas English, 1 Edward Dotey, Edward Leis- * This brief, and comprehensive, and simple instrument estab- lished a most important principle, a principle which is the foun- y/ dation of all the democratic institutions of America, and is the basis of the republic; and however it may be expanded and complicated in our various constitutions, however unequally power may be distinguished in the different branches of our va- rious governments, has imparted to each its strongest and most striking characteristic. Many philosophers have since appeared, who have, in labor- ed treatises, endeavored to prove the doctrine, that the rights of man are unalienable, and nations have bled to defend and en- force them, yet in this dark age, the age of despotism and su- perstition, when no tongue dared to assert, and no pen to write this bold and novel doctrine, which was then as much at defi- ance with common opinion as with actual power, of which the monarch was then held to be the sole fountain, and the theory was universal, that all popular rights were granted by the crown, in this remote wilderness, amongst a small and unknown band > of wandering outcasts, the principle that the icill of the majority^^ of the people shall govern^ w^s first conceived, and was first prac- tically exemplified. The pilgrims, from their notions of primitive Christianity, the force of circumstances, and that pure moral feeling which is the offspring of true religion, discovered a truth in the science of government which had been concealed for ages. On the bleak shore of a barren wilderness, in the midst of desolation, with the blast of winter howling around them, and surrounded with dan- gers in their most awful and appalling forms, the pilgrims of Leyden laid the foundation of American -liberty.' — Baylies, vol. i. p. 29. John Carver was elected to officiate as Governor for one year. Seventeen days elapsed before the shallop could be repaired fit for service ; during the interval, the new comers employed them- selves in exploring the shores in the long-boat, and traversing the woods on Cape Cod. On Monday, November 13th, the women were set ashore to wash, and their shallop brought on shore for repairs. The m^n formed a company to travel into the interior to view the land, and endeavor to discover the in- habitants: they were commanded by Capt. Miles Standish, well armed, and master Jones, of the Mayflower, being desirous of joining in the excursion, was made their pioneer. They spent 20 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 two or three days ranging the woods, and saw five Indians at some distance, but they were shy and kept out of reach. They discovered no houses, but found a large iron ship's kettle, and near it a considerable quantity of variously colored Indian corn in the ears, buried under ground in handsome baskets. This was a new article to the settlers, and they availed them- selves of the opportunity to supply their wants. They carried away the kettle and a quantity of corn, with the honest inten- tion of replacing them when opportunity should offer, which they eventually did. The place which they visited was Pamet River, now in Truro. Whilst wandering in the woods they observed a young sapling bent down to the earth, and some acorns strewed underneath. Stephen Hopkins said it was a deer trap ; Mr. William Bradford, afterwards governor, stepping too near, it gave a sudden jerk up- v/ards and caught him by the leg ; it was said to have been a pretty device, made with a rope of Indian fabric, and having a noose so ingeniously contrived as to answer all the purposes of entrap- ping deer. When the shallop was fit for service, 34 men em- barked in her, and the long-boat, on an excursion to explore the shores in search of a place for settlement. They landed at the mouth of Pamet River, in Truro, to which they gave the name of Cold Harbor, the weather being extremely cold and stormy. From thence they marched several miles into the woods, without making any satisfactory discovery, but shot two geese and six ducks, which served them well for supper. In their travels they found sundry sand heaps, under which they found Indian corn, and named the place Corn Hill. They found also two or three baskets of Indian wheat, a bag of beans, and a bottle of oil. From this store they took to themselves about ten bushels of corn and beans, which afforded them essential relief, and supplied them with seed corn, for which they resolved to make restitution. Having marched 5 or 6 miles into the woods, they saj[V neither houses nor inhabitants, but came to a large square, having the appearance of a capacious burial-place. On digging in the ground, they met with mats, a bow, a carved board, bowls, trays, dishes, and trinkets. Under a large new mat were two bundles; on opening the largest, there was discovered a quantity of fine red powder, in which was enveloped the bones and skull of a man. The skull was covered with yellow hair, and there were bound up with it a knife, a pack-needle, and pieces of old iron. It was bound up in a sailor's canvass cas- sock, and a pair of cloth breeches. The red powder was a kind of embahnent, and yielded a strong but not offensive smell. * * A French ship had been wrecked on the shore of Cape Cod a 1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 21 In the lesser package was the same kind of powder, and the bones and head of a little child ; about the legs and some other parts were bound strings and bracelets of fine white beads: there were also a little bow and some trinkets. Whilst searching in the woods, two of the sailors discovered two Indian houses, from which the inhabitants had lately departed. They were formed with long young sapling trees, bended, and both ends stuck into the ground, and covered, tops and sides, with well-wrought mats. Within were found wooden bowls, trays, and dishes, earthernpots,hand-baskets made ofcrab-shells wrought together, also an English pail or bucket. Here were also deers* heads, horns and feet, eagles' claws, two or three baskets full of parched acorns, and pieces of herrings, and other fishes. It now became a question with the settlers whether Cape Cod should be adopted as their permanent residence, or search be made for a more eligible situation. In their deliberation on the occasion, different opinions resulted. In favor of the place it was alleged, 1st, that the harbor was convenient for boats though not for ships: 2d, there was good corn ground, as was evident by the remaining stubble : 3d, it was a place of profitable fishing; for large whales of the best kind for oil and bone, came daily along side and played about the ship. The master and his mate, and others experienced in fishing, preferred it to Greenland whale-fishery, and asserted that were they provided with the proper implements £3,000 or £4,000 worth of oil might be obtained: 4th, the place was likely to prove healthful, secure and defensible. But the last and special reason was the unfavor- able season, it being winter, and the weather was so exceedingly tempestuous, cold and stormy, that every movement was attended with imminent danger. And whether a more convenient place could be found, was very doubtful, as no one was acquainted with the country. On the other hand, it was urged, 1st, that the shore was so shallow that the men were obliged to wade in water over their knees in going to and from their shallop, by which many had taken colds and coughs, whereof some had died: 2d, there was a place called Agawam, alias Angawam, (Ipswich,) about 20 leagues to the northward, which had been reported as having an excellent harbor for ships, and better soil and fishing: 3d, there might be at no great distance abetter seat, and it would be unfortunate to locate where they should be few years before, from which they probably obtained the iron kettle and carved board, &c. The skull, with the yellow hair, undoubted- ly belonged to one of the seamen wrecked in the French ship, three of whom it appears were suffered to live for sometime among the natives. 22 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 obliged to remove again: 4th, there was a scarcity of water at that place, and none could be had without bringing it up a steep hill. Besides, Robert Coppin, the pilot, affirmed that there was a navigable river and good harbor in the other head-land of this bay, over against Cape Cod, about eight leagues distance, where he had once been, and which, a native having stolen a harping iron from them, they had named Thievish Harbor. It was at length resolved to endeavor to make some further discovery within the bay, but not to range so far as Agawam. About this time an incident occurred which might have been attended with fatal consequences. A son of Francis Billington, in the absence of his father, having procured some gun-pow- der, made squibs and fired them, and finding his father's fowling- piece charged, shot it off in the cabin where there was a small barrel half full of powder, and many, people near the fire, but no one was injured. On Wednesday, December 6th, the company sailed on a third excursion for discovery ; the weather was so intensely cold that the water froze every moment on their clothes, and two of the men were greatly overcome. On their approach to the shore at Eastham, they discovered 10 or 12 Indians engaged in cutting up a grampus, but they soon fled. Two other grampuses were dead on the shore, having been cast on the land; the fat on their sides was two inches thick, affording abundance of oil. The English landed on the shore, made a barricado, planted sentinels, and took lodgings beside a fire, and saw the smoke from the Indian's fire 4 or 5 miles from them. In the morning part of the company kept in the shallop, and the rest ranged the woods. A large burial-place was discovered, partly encompass- ed wiih a palisado, like a church-yard, and filled with graves of various sizes. At night they took their lodgings in the shallop, and at about midnight hideous cries were heard, and the senti- nel called, arms! arms! but by firing two guns the noise ceased. About five o'clock in the morning the noises were renewed and they had only time to cry out 'Indians! Indians!' when the arrows came flying thickly about them. The English ran with all speed to receive their guns, and in a moment bullets were exchanged for arrows, but no exchange could be a match for the dreadful Indian yells. There was a lusty Indian, supposed to be their captain, who placed himself behind a tree, discharg- ed three arrows, and stood three shots from a musket, till at length a charge struck the tree, when he gave a horrid yell, and fled. Eighteen of their arrows were taken up aiid sent to their friends in England, by master Jones, of the Mayflower; some were headed with brass, some with deer's horns, and 1620] I-IISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 23 Others with eagles' claws; but the contest ended without blood- shed on either side. It was about this time that the wife of Wm. White was favored with the birth of a son, whom they named Peregrine, being the first English child born in New England.* After the skirmish with the Indians, the pilgrims rendered thanks to God for their preservation, and named the place the First Encounter. In the afternoon of the same day, Decem- ber 8th, the shallop departed from the cape on a cruise of dis- covery, with the following persons on board: — Governor Car- ver, Mr. Wilham Bradford, I Edward Winslow, Capt. Miles Standish, John Rowland, Mr. Warren, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Ed- ward Tilly, Mr. John Tilly, Mr. Clarke, John Allerton, Thomas English and Edward Dotey, together with Coppin, the pilot, the master gunner of the ship, and three of the common sea- men, making eighteen in the whole. The pilot assured them that there was a harbor of which he had some knowledge, which they could reach before night. J They were in the afternoon overtaken by a violent storm, the wind and rain increasing, and the sea raging with rough and heavy surges, by which the hinges of their rudder were broken, and they were obliged to steer the shallop by oars in the hands of two men stationed at the helm. Not long after^ in their severe struggle, their mast was severed in three pieces, and the sails went * William White died in the ensuing- spring-. His widow Susannah, married Edward Winslow, who was the third governor of the colony ; this marriage was solemnized May 12th, 1621, and was the first marriage in New England. She was the mother of Peregrine White, the first child born of English parents in the colony. Peregrine White died at Marshfield, July 20th, 1704, aged 83 years and eight months. His children by Sarah, his wife, were Daniel, Sarah, Mary, Jonathan, Peregrine, Sylvanus. Children of Daniel White and Han- nah his wife, were John, Joseph, Thomas, Cornelius, Benjamin, Elea- zer, Ebenezer. Children of Cornelius White and Hannah his wife, Lemuel, Cornelius, Paul, Joanna, Daniel, Gideon, Benjamin. Child- ren of Gideon White and Joanna Howland his wife, were Cornelius, ("died 1779) Joanna married Pelham Winslow, (died 1829) Hannah still survives at Plymouth, Gideon (died at Nova Scotia, 1833), Polly still survives, Elizabeth, Experience and Thomas. Deacon Joseph White, great grand-son of Peregrine, resided at Yarmouth, where he died not many years since, and where some of his descendants still survive. t While Mr. William Bradford was absent in the shallop, his wife Dorothy accidentally fell overboard from the Mayflower at Cape Cod and was drowned. t It is not improbabl© that the pilot had visited this shore with Capt. Smith or Hunt, in 1614. 24 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 overboard. In passing the point called the Gurnet's nose, at the mouth of Plymouth harbor, the pilot finding himself deceived, and greatly alarmed, exclaimed ' Lord be merciful ! ' my eyes never saw this place before; and he with the master's mate would have run the boat ashore before the wind in a cove among breakers; which cove is between the Gurnet head and Saquish point. But a more resolute seaman at the helm making un- common exertions, and urging the oarsmen, the boat was with difficulty put about, and they fortunately reached the lee of a small island, in the midst of a heavy rain, and the darkness of night, where they came safe to anchor, and in the night they landed and kindled a fire. The next morning they found the island was uninhabited, and as it was the last day of the week, and extremely cold, they employed themselves in drying their clothes, cleaning their arms, and repairing their shallop. The following day, the tenth, being the christian sabbath, and the first ever observed in New England, they devoted themselves in pious gratitude for their preservation and safe arrival. As Mr. Clark, the master's mate was the first to land on the island, it received his name, which it still retains. * Memorable Landing of the First Settlers. On Monday, the 11 th day of October, O. S. they proceeded from the island in their shallop, to sound and examine the har- bor, and to their unspeakable joy, found it commodious and 'fit for shipping.' A part of their number, no names men- tioned, landed, went some distance into the country, and ex- amined the territory contiguous to the shore, where they found cleared land which had been planted with Indian corn, two or three years before, and a beautiful running brook, and numerous springs of the purest water. Having selected this as the most eligible situation for a permanent settlement yet discovered, they re-embarked on board the shallop and returned to the ship, at Cape Cod, announcing to the anxious pilgrims the joyful tidings of their discoveries, and the cheering prospects which Providence had opened to their view. This, then, is to be considered as the first stepping on the Rock of the Pilgrims from the shallop belonging to the Mayflower, and this is the birth day of our nation. The day which has been annually celebrated in commemoration of this momentous event, the landing of the forefathers, is the twenty-second of December, N, S. which has hitherto been supposed to correspond with the * See a tradition respecting this when describing the island, at the latter end of the volume. 1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 25 eleventh, O. S; but to reconcile the difference between old and new style in the century in which they arrived, only ten days, instead of eleven, should be added to their computation, which would make the day of the landing correspond to the twenty-first, N. S. If therefore it be desirable to celebrate the precise portion of time corresponding with their date, as it undoubtedly is, the twenty-first and not the twenty-second of December, should be commemorated as Forefather's Day. * ^ The day of the landing by the exploring party in the shallop was Monday, December 11th, 1620, old style. This is establish d by the united testimony of Morton's Memorial, Mourt's Relation, and Governor Bradford's MS. History, as copied by Prince. In de- termining the anniversary of that day for any year whatever, the question occurs, what is the difference between O. S. and N. S. for 1620 ? By order of Pope Gregory XIII. in 1582, ten days were omitted in the Julian calendar, then in use, and the 5th of October was reckoned the 15th. This was done fo.r the following reason. The Julian calendar proceeded on the supposition that the year was 365 days and 6 hours ; but the time in which the sun performs his annual revolution is not exactly 365 days 6 hours, but 365 days 5 hours 48 minutes and 45| seconds. The civil year, therefore, exceeded the solar by 11 minutes 14^ seconds, which in about 130 years amounted to a whole day, i. e. the true equinox would precede the civil one by about a day in 130 years. In the year 1582, this anticipation of the equinox had amounted to 10 days, so that the vernal equinox was now found to happen on the 11th of March instead of the 21st, as it ought 10 have done if the Julian calendar had agreed with the course of the sun. The Pope, therefore, ordered the 10 days to be sup- pressed ; and, to preserve the accuracy of the calendar from that time, it was ordered that three days should continue to be dropped every 400 years, which was nearly equivalent to one day every 130 years. Instead, however, of suppressing a day every 130th year, whether common or leap year, it was thought preferable to make the correction in leap year only, thus leaving always 365 days at least in the year. Now in the former method of reckoning, every lOOtii year was a leap year; but it was ordered by the Pope, that every 400th year only should be considered as leap year, and the other centurial years reckoned as common years ; the year 1600, however, being still continued as leap year. By making, therefore, the year 1700, 1800, and 1900 to be common years instead of leap years, as they would have been in the old style, the error arising from the odd time would be properly corrected. The difference then between O. S. and N. S. in 1582, was ten days, and this continued to be the difference until 1700, the leap year being preserved in 1600; from 1700 to 1800, it was eleven 3 26 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 Immediately on receiving the happy intelligence, the Mayflower weighed anchor and proceeded to the newly-discovered harbor. She there moored in safety on the 16th day of December O. S., and thus terminated her perilous voyage. As the ark once bore the family of Noah and the destinies of human kind, so this modern ark bore the pilgrim family and the destinies of a future nation. This little family was now about to change the perils of the ocean, not for a friendly, hospitable shore, — not to receive the fond embrace of affectionate relatives and friends, but to encounter the storms of winter in an unexplored wilder- ness, and to listen to the yells of savages. An appalling pros- pect presents itself to the shivering crowd, as they stand upon deck, viewing the scenes of their future exertions and suffer- ings. But, instead of shrinking, the strong man nerves his arm for the new duties which he is called to perform, as the protector of tender females amidst the storms and cold of winter. days, because 1700 in O. S. was a leap year, and therefore, another day was to be suppressed ; from 1800 to 1900, twelve days ; from 1900 to 2000, thirteen days; and from 2000 to 2100, still thirteen days ; because 2000 is a leap year in both styles. Of course, then, the 11th of December, 1620, O. S. corresponds to the 21st of De- cember, N. S. — the year 1600 being reckoned as a leap year, and, therefore, no day being dropped in that century. Now in the year 1769, when the Old Colony Chib fixed upon the day of their cele- bration, the difference of styles had become, for that century, 11 days, because the year 1700 was, as above stated, reckoned as a common year, and therefore an additional day was dropped, f^or the same reason, the difference of styles for the present century is 12 days. But the true question is and should have been by the Old Colony Club, what is the difference of styles for 1620, and that is the true difference for that time, and continues so forever. — See Rees^ Cijclopedia, articles Calendar and Style. — Judge Davis^s letter ni regard to the settlement of Boston. — Judge Davis's communication in O. C. Memorial, Sept. 4, 1830. American Almanac, Vol. i. (in which however, there is an inaccuracy in stating this mttaer.) The above calculation is corroborated in the following manner: By finding the Dominical letter for 1620, O. S. which is A, it appears that the 11th of December that year fell on Monday, con- formably to our historians. By finding the Dominical letter for 1620, N. S. which is D, it appears that the 21st of December for that year would fall also on Monday, and the 22d on Tuesday, &c. — See the table in American Almanac, Vol. iii. p. 72. There can be no doubt, therefore, that the 21st of December, in any year, is the day corresponding to the 11th of December, 1620, O. S. and is the true day of the landing of the Pilgrims at Ply- mouth. 1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 27 Mothers tasked to the utmost efforts of their physical and moral powers, shielding their helpless children from numerous fearful objects, exhibit examples of unprecedented self-denial, entire devotedness, and high-minded virtue ! And it was the consO' lation of all, amid their sufferings, that they had disenthralled themselves from ecclesiastical tyranny and persecution, and found an asylum of religious liberty and icivil freedom for them- selves and posterity.* On the 1 8th and 19th, the master of the ship, Mr. Jones, and three or four sailors explored the land contiguous to the harbor, but could discover neither houses nor inhabitants. On the morning of the 20th, after imploring heaven for guidance, a considerable number landed with the view of selecting a loca- tion for settlement. The place selected was the high ground on the bank facing the bay, where the land had been cleared, and corn planted by the natives a few years before. Here were numerous springs of the purest water, and a brook emptying its current into the harbor. Here also was a high hill, well situated for a fortification to command the surrounding country, and affording a fine prospect across the bay. A violent storm arose at night, and the weather continued so tempestuous for two or three days, that these people, unable to return on board, remained on shore without shelter. On Saturday, the twenty- third, another party bid adieu to the Mayflower, went on shore and began to fell and carry timber, and make preparations for the construction of their house of common rendezvous. On the twenty-fourth, (Sabbath) the people on shore were alarmed by the cry of Indians, from whom an attack was expected, but it proved a false alarm. On Monday, the twenty-fifth, they began their common house, for rendezvous and for stores, which was twenty feet square; and. no man was suffered to remain idle, although many of them, from a long voyage, were affected with scurvy, and others, from uncommon exposure to storms of snow and rain, were suffering under severe indispo- sition. Such was their industry, that in four days one half of their store-house was thatched. | It was one of their first ob- * Had the month of December, 1620, been as inclement as De* cember, 1831 and 1834. when our harbor and shores were an ex- panse of ice and snow, and the thermometer several degrees below- zero, those whom we honor as our fathers and mothers must have fallen a sacrifice to the climate, and the story of the great enterprize of these bold spirits been lost in oblivion, or preserved only in un- certain tradition. fin the year 1801, in digging a cellar, sundry tools and a plate 28 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 jects to provide for their security a platform for their ordnance, which they began to build on the twenty-eighth, on a high hill. On the same day they divided their whole company into nine- teen families, that fewer houses might suffice, and measured out the ground, assigning to every person by lot half a pole in breadth and three poles in length, for house lot and garden. — It was stipulated that every man should build his own house, but that the whole should be built in two rows and compact for greater security against the Indians. The inclemency of the weather and their own feeble health were essential impediments to their progress in erecting their houses, and many families were detained on board the ship until shelter could be provided on shore. December 3lst, Lord's Day. Although the greatest part of tlie company was -on board the ship almost a mile and a half from shore, those who had landed kept the sabbath for the first time in their new house. ' Here, therefore, is fixed the era of their settlement, which in grateful rem.embrance of the christian friends, whom they left in the last town which they visited in their native country, they called JYeiv Plymouth.* This was the foundation of the first English town built in New England.' — Holmes^ s Jinn. Place of their location. — The place in which the settlers first located themselves for a town, is- the whole extent of our Ley- den street and its environs. This street was laid out by them when planning the town, and extends from the town square in a gradual descent to the shore, and terminates a little distance south of the memorable rock. During the first winter, the settlers buried their dead on the banks of the shore, since called Cole's Hill, near their own dwellings, taking special care by leveHing the earth to conceal from the Indians the number and frequency of deaths. Dr. Holmes mentions a tradition, that the graves at that spot, after the great mortality in the first stage of the settlement, were levelled and sown over by the settlersto conceal the extent of their loss from the natives. An aged gentleman, Hon. Ephraim Spooner, since deceased, who gave of iron were discovered, seven feet under the surface of the earth, on the spot where tradition places the common house, which is on the south side of Leyden street, near the declivity of the hill. ^ "This name of Plimonth was so called not only for the reasons here named, (referring to Smith's map) but also because Plimouth in O. E. was the last town they left in their native country ; and for that they received many kindnesses from some Christians there." — Morton Memor. Davis^s edition y page 56. 1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 29 this information to Dr. Holmes, received it from Elder Faunce, who died 1745, in the 99th year of his age, and who was well ac- quainted with some of the first settlers. Hon. Judge Davis relates that he has often had similar information from an aged lady, Mrs. White, who died at Plymouth, a few years since, and who, in early life, was intimate in the family of Elder Faunce. It has always been supposed that the remains of Governor Carver were deposited on Cole's Hill, and it is to be regretted that no stone was erected to designate the spot. On reviewing the place where the puritan fathers first erected their rude, comfortless huts, and where Carver and half of his associates closed their mortal career during the first winter, surely enough enthusiasm will never be wanting to consecrate the ground with tears, and proclaim its sacredness to future generations. It is the ground, where, unshielded from the rigors of a boisterous season, our ancestors were compelled to erect bulwarks of defence against the attacks of cruel savages, while their hearts were pierced with the keenest anguish, by the arrows of death depriving them of rulers, parents, husbands and children ! The Consecrated Rock. — The identical granite Rock, upon which the sea-wearied Pilgrims from the Mayflower first im- pressed their footsteps, has never been a subject of doubtful designation. The fact of its identity has been transmitted from father to son, particularly in the instance of Elder Faunce and his father, as would be the richest inheritance, by unquestiona- ble tradition. About the year 1741, it was represented to Elder Faunce that a wharf was to be erected over the rock, which impressed his mind with deep concern, and excited a strong desire to take a last farewell of the cherished object. He was then ninety-five years old, and resided three miles from the place. A chair was procured, and the venerable man conveyed to the shore, where a number of the inhabitants were assembled to witness the patriarch's benediction. Having pointed out the rock directly under the bank of Cole's Hill, which his father had assured him was that, which had received the footsteps of our fathers on their first arrival, and which should be perpetu- ated to posterity, he bedewed it with his tears and bid to it an everlasting adieu. These facts were testified to by the late venerable Deacon Spooner, who was then a boy and was pres- ent on the interesting occasion. Tradition says that Elder Faunce was in the habit on every anniversary, of placing his children and grand-children on the rock, and conversing with them respecting their forefathers. Standing on this rock, therefore, we may fanc)^a magic power ushering us into the presence of our' fathers. Where is the New Englander who 3* 30 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 would be willing to have that rock buried out of sight and for- gotten ? The hallowed associations which cluster around that precious memorial, inspire us with sentiments of the love of our country, and a sacred reverence for its primitive institutions. In contemplation, we may hold communion with celestial spir- its, and receive monitions from those who are at rest in their graves. What honors shall we pay to the fathers of our coun- try, the founders of that nation, which for ages, will remain the rich abode of knowledge, religion, freedom, and virtue ! — Criminal, indeed, would be our case, were we not to cherish a religious sense of the exalted privileges inherited from our pious ancestors, and resolve to transmit them unimpaired to our children. ' The man that is not mov'd with what he reads, That takes not fire at their heroic deeds, Unworthy of the blessings of the brave, Is base in kind, and born to be a slave.' Historical records are entirely silent as respects the person who was the first to land upon our shore and gain possession of New England ground. The claim has been contested between the descendants of John Alden and Mary Chilton, but the point of precedence must remain undecided, since the closest investigation discloses no authority nor a shadow of evidence in favor of any individual as being the first who landed. The fact is unquestionable, that the shallop of the Mayflower, after having tarried three nights at Clark's Island, came up on the 11th of December, O. S. and landed her men on the main shore, but no name is mentioned as the first who landed. The name of John Alden is not included in the list of those who wsre on board of the shallop; his claim, therefore, must be rejected; nor was Mary Chilton on board the shallop. But the foilowing traditionary anecdote has ever been regarded as cor- rect among the Chilton descendants. The Mayflower having arrived in the harbor from Cape Cod, Mary Chilton entered the first landing boat, and looking forward, exclaimed, " I will be the first to step on that Rock." Accordingly, when the boat approached, Mary Chilton was permitted to be the first from that boat who appeared on the Rock, and thus her claim was established. Among those who came in the Mayflower, were James Chilton, and Mary, his only child. Mary married John Winslow, and Susannah, her daughter, Mr. Latham. — The descendants of Mr. Winslow reside in Boston, and those of Mr. Latham in Bridgewater; and the tradition, we have reason to believe, is in both famihes. From the Latham family have descended the Hay wards; the fete Hon. Beza Hay ward, 1621] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 31 Nathan Hay ward, Esq., (the present Sheriff of the county,) and the wife of the author, are lineal descendants. In the year 1774, when liberty and the rights of man were the popular themes, it was determined to remove the hallowed rock from its original bed to the town square, near the church and court house, that it might be located beside the liberty pole. [This will be further noticed in this work under the date of 1774.] January 1st, 1621. — About this date Francis Billington hav- ing mounted the top of a tree on a high hill, discovered at a distance, as he supposed, another great sea, and on the eighth January went with one of the master's mates to take a view of of the place. They found the water divided into two lakes, the larger five or six miles compass, the smaller, three miles. January I2th. — Two of the settlers, John Goodman and Peter Brown, being abroad gathering thatch, came to a lake of water, (probably Murdock's pond) near which they discovered a fine large deer; their two dogs chased the animal, and they follow- ed till they were lost, and could not find their way back. They wandered till night, being hghtly clad, and without weapons or food, amidst frost and snow; and were obliged to make the cold earth their bed, and the clouds their covering. In the night they were greatly alarmed by noises which they supposed to be the roaring of lions. In their fright they mounted a tree for safety, which they found to be an intolerably cold lodging, and they sometimes walked under the tree in readiness to chmb, holding their bitch by the neck lest she should rush into the lions' paws. But fortunately the lions came not, and at an early dawn they renewed their wanderings, which they contin- ued through the day. At night they reached the settlement almost famished with cold and hunger, having mistaken the howling of wolves for the roaring of lions. Their friends at the settlement, being greatly alarmed on account of their absence, sent out ten or twelve armed men, who traversed the woods all day in vain, and returned with strong apprehensions that they were taken by the Indians. It was not long after the arrival of the planters, that the natives assembled all their pawaws in a dark swamp, to curse the new comers; for three days they continued their horrid incantation, and consigned the English to utter destruction. It is to be regretted that we cannot ascertain the spot where this swamp was located, nor the particular tribe that acted in this diabolical business. January 14th. — The settlers had the misfortune of losing their common house by fire, from a spark, which falling among the dry thatch, entirely consumed it. It was remarkable, that, at 32 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 the moment of this disaster. Governor Carver, and Mr. William Bradford were sick in their beds. The floor of the house was covered with beds and bedding, muskets were loaded, and a quantity of powder was stored within, yet little damage was sustained. The people on board the ship, seeing the fire, and unable to come on shore by reason of low tide and very tem- pestuous weather, were under painful apprehensions that the savages had attacked them. It being Sunday, and the major part of the people on shore, they performed public worship in their settlement. January I9th. — John Goodman, who had been lost in the woods, took it into his head again to ramble into the woods ; having a spaniel with him, it was soon attacked by two wolves. The dog flew to the legs of his master for safety, and he having no weapon, snatched a stick for defence; the wolves sat some time on their tails grinning and snarling at the affrighted man, but at length suffered him to escape. The wife of Capt. Standish, and some others of their num- ber, died this month. ■ February. — Twelve Indians were discovered in the woods, but no interview could be had with them. A general meeting was called to establish some military arrangements, and Miles Standish was chosen Captain, and vested with command ac- cordingly. During the meeting, two Indians presented them- selves on the top of the hill, on the opposite side of tke brook, and made signs for the EngUsh to come to them, but, on the approach of Capt. Standish and Mr. Hopkins, th,ey fled. 2lst. — Capt. Jones, of the Mayflower, brought on shore one of the greatest pieces of cannon, called a mhiioii, and he and his sailors assisted the settlers to drag that, and another piece, up the hill, with three small pieces, which they mounted for defence. The settlers suffered extremely this month by sickness and death: no less than seventeen* of their number died during the month; and the sick were destitute of almost all the comforts which their miserable condition rendered indispensable. Their sufferings were increased by the want of well persons to per- form the duties among the sick, there being, at one time, not more than six or seven in tolerable health. But it is recorded, that Standish and Brewster manifested the tenderest concern, and devoted themselves, with unwearied assiduity, to the relief and comfort of their suffering brethren, not declining the mean- est office. In March, 1621, fifty-five only survived of the one hundred and one who came in the Mayflower. * Of this number was Mary, wife of Isaac Allerton, who died 1621J HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 33 March 3d, — The weather was fair and warm, and the plant- ers were delighted to hear the singing of American birds in the woods. IGth.- — ^Much surprise was excited by the appearance of an Indian who boldly walked to the rendezvous, and cried out cheeringly in broken English — 'Welcome Englishmen, welcome Englishmen.' This was Samoset, a Sagamore, who had come from Monhiggon, (District of Maine,) where he had learned something of the English tongue from the Captains of the fishing vessels, on that shore, and he knew by name most of those commanders. This was the first savage with whom the whites had obtained an interview. No incident could have diffused greater joy in the hearts of the disconsolate and the infirm; it seemed like an angelic herald to the sick and dying. Samoset discoursed as though he possessed a general knowl- edge of the whole surrounding country, and the numbers and strength of the several tribes. He said that the place they now occupy is called Patuxet, and that about four years ago all the natives died of an extraordinary plague; that there was neither man, woman, nor child remaining in the territory, of which the English had now possessed themselves. He was a tall, erect man, and had a bow and two arrows. The English treated him with their best food and drink; and as he wasinchnedto tarry all night, they provided him a lodging and watched his movements. The next day he returned to a neighboring tribe, from whence he said he came last. He represented the Nausets as being highly incensed and provoked against the English, three of whom were, about eight months ago, slain by the Nausets, Their enmity was caused by one Hunt^ a master of a ship, who, a few years ago, deceived the natives, and under pretence of trading with them, got twenty of the people of this very place, Patuxet, and seven from the Nausets, on board his ship, and carried them off* and sold them for slaves, at twenty pounds a head.* * Thomas Hunt commanded one of the ships, with which Capt. Smith came to New England, in 1614. Smith sailed for England in July, and left Hunt with directions to procure a cargo, and pro- ceed to Spain. His atrocious conduct is thus related by Prince, from Smith, Mourt, &c. " After Smith left New England, Hunt gets 20 Indiana on board him at Patuxet, one of whom is called Squcmto or Squantum or Tisquantum, and 7 more ofNauset, and carried them to Malaga, sells them for slaves at £20 a man, which raises such an enmity in the savages against our nation, as makes further attempts of commerce with them very dangerous." " Smith, humane and generous as he was intrepid, indignantly reprobates the base conduct of Hunt." Many of these helpless captives, it appears, 34 HISTORY OF PLY3I0UTH. [1621 On his departure, the English gave him a knife, a bracelet, and a ring; and he promised to return soon and bring other natives with him, with such beaver skins as they could collect. Not many days after, being Sunday, Samoset returned with five tall savages, dressed in deer skins, their hair cut short before, but long to their shoulders behind, and ornamented with feath- ers and fox-tails, and the principal had a wild-cat's skin on one arm. Their faces were painted in various colors and figures. They left their bows and arrows at some distance from the settlement, according to the charge given by the English to Samoset. They made signs of amity and friendship, and amused the English with their dancing and singing, who in return gave them a suitable entertainment. They brought with them some corn, parched, and reduced to a fine powder, called JYokehike or JVocake which they eat mixed with water; and they had a little tobacco in a bag, of which they drank* frequently. They brought with them, also, all the tools be- longing to the English, which had been taken when left in the woods. They offered a {qw skins to trade, but, being Sunday, the English dismissed them soon, desiring them to return with more skins, which they promised. But Samoset either was sick, or feigned himself so, and would tarry till the next Wednesday, when the English gave him a hat, a pair of stockings and shoes, shirt, &c. and sent him to inquire why his friends did not return. Thursdaxj, April 2d. — Samoset arrived, bringing with him Squanto, ahas Tisquantum, the only surviving native of Patuxet, who was one of the twenty captives carried away by the infamous Hunt; he had been in England, and could speak a little English. Three others came with him, and brought a few skins to "truck," and some red herrings, newly taken and dried, but not salted. They gave information, that their great Saga- more, Massasoit, was approaching, with Quadequina, his broth- er, and all their tribe, and, within an hour, the king appeared were rescued from slavery by the benevolent interposition of some of the Monks in Malaga. Squanto was probably one, who was thus relieved and liberated. He found a friend in Mr. Slaney in England, by whose assistance he was enabled to return to his native land, on board of Captain Thomas Dermer's vessel in 1619. * The term drinking tobacco is frequently used in the records. In the year 1646, we find this entry in the Plymouth records. "Anthony Thacher and George Pole were chosen a committee tt5 draw up an order concerninfj disorderly drinking tobacco." It undoubtedly means smoking tobacco. An. aged man in this town who was a great smoker used to term it drinking tobacco. 1621] HISTORY OF PLYBIOUTH. 35 on the top of an opposite hill, and had in his train sixty men, which he displayed to view. This Will is on the south side of Town brook, and is called Watson's hill, but the brook, which they forded, is now covered with an arched stone bridge. Both parties being unwilling to advance, Squanto went over to Mas- sasoit, and returned with the message, that he desired peace and a trade with the English. The governor then sent Mr. Edward Winslow, with a pair of knives and a copper chain with a jewel in it, for the king, and for Quadequina, a knife and a jewel to hang in his ear, a pot of strong water, a quantity of biscuit, and some butter, all of which were well received. Mr. Winslow addressed Massasoit in the name of king James, as- suring him, that the king saluted him with words of love and peace, and did accept of him as his friend and ally ; and that the governor desired to see him, and confirm a trade and peace with him as his next neighbor. Massasoit was well pleased with the speech, and after eating and drinking, gave the remains to his people. He looked on Mr. Winslow's sword and armor with a desire to buy them, but he refused to gratify him. Massasoit now left Mr. Winslow in the custody of Quadequina, his brother, and came over the brook with twenty men, leaving all their bows and arrows behind them. Captain Standish and Mr. Williamson, with six musketeers, met the king at the brook, and each party saluted the other, when the king was conducted to a house then partly built, where were placed a green rug and three or four cushions. Governor Carver now appeared with a drum and trumpet, and a few musketeers. After salutations, the governor kissed the king's hand, who, in return, kissed him, and they seated themselves; but the king all the time trembled for fear. The governor called for some strong water and drank to him, and he drank a copious draught, which made him sweat a long time after. Massasoit and his people having partaken of some fresh meat, the following terms of peace were mutually agreed to. 1. That neither he, nor any of his, should injure, or do hurt, to any of the English. 2. If any of his did hurt to any of ours, he should send the offender, that we might punish him. 3. That if any of our tools were taken away, when our people were at work, he should cause them to be restored, and if ours did harm to any of his, we should do the like to them. 4. If any did unjustly war against him, we would aid him; if any did war against us, he should aid us. 5. He should send to his neighboring confederates, to certify 36 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 them of this, that they might not wrong us, but might be like- wise comprised in the conditions of peace. 6. That when their men came, they should leave their bows and arrows behind them, as we should do our pieces when we went to them. Lastly, that doing thus, king James would esteem him as his friend and ally.* The above treaty was pleasing to the Sachem and approved by his people. | In his person, the king was a lusty, able-bodied man, and in his countenance, grave. His attire differed little from that of his people, except a great chain of beads of white bone about his neck. ' His face was painted with a dull, red-like murry, and oiled, both head and face, so that he looked greasily.' He had in his bosom, hang- ing in a string, a large, long knife; he marvelled much at the trumpet, and made some attempts to sound it. All his followers were painted of divers colors, some were clothed with skins, and some were naked. Samoset and Squanto tarried all night with the English; and the king and his people, with their wives and children, spent the night in the adjacent woods. | They said that within eight or nine days, they would come ' and set corn on the other side of the brook, and dwell there all summer. That night the English kept a good watch, but no danger occurred, and the next morning several of the savages visited the English, with the hope, as supposed, of obtaining some food. Some of them said the king wished some of the English to come and see him. Captain Standish and Isaac Allerton went venturously, and were welcomed, and presented with three or four ground-nuts and some tobacco. Massasoit, being at war with a potent adversary, the Narra- gansets, manifested every disposition to be at peace and friend- * 'The New Plymouth associates, by the favor of the Almighty, began the colony in NeAv England, at a place called by the natives, Apaum, alias Fatuxet ; all the lands being void of inhabitants, we, the said John Carver, William Bradford, Edward Winslow, William Brewster, Isaac Allerton, and the rest of our associates, entering into a league of peace with Massasoit, since called Woosamequin, Prince or Sachem of those parts: he, the said Massasoit, freely gave them all the lands adjacent to them, and their heirs forever.' ['Preface to Plymouth laws, declaring the warrantable grounds and proceed- ing of the government of New Plymouth.'] — Holmes^s Annals. f This treaty, the work of one day, being honestly intended on 1 both sides, was kept with fidelity as long as Massasoit lived, but was V afterwards (in 1675) broken by Philip, his successor.' — Bdknap's Biography, The character of Massasoit will be found in the appendix. 1621] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 37 ship with the English, whose fire-arms were a great terror to his enemies. At a meeting in April on common business, Mr. Carver was confirmed in the office of governor for one year. The Mayflov/er was detained a considerable time, in conse- quence of sickness and deaths among the seamen, more than one half of their number having died during the winter, and Mr. Jones, the master, was unwilling to commence his return voyage until the survivors had recovered their health. He sailed on the 5th of April, and arrived in England on the 6th of May. Not one of the settlers expressed a desire to return to their native country, but all remained true to the pledge to their brethren whom they left in Leyden, and made every pos- sible exertion to prepare comfortable accommodations for their reception. The first ofience committed and punished since the arrival of the colonists, was by John Billington, who shipped on board the Mayflower at London, and was not of the company. He was charged with contempt of the captain's lawful commands, and of opprobious speeches. He was tried by the whole com- pany, and sentenced to have his neck and heels tied together; but, on humbling himself and craving pardon, and it being his first offence, he was released from his painful situation before the time had expired. In the spring of this year, the colonists planted 20 acres with Indian corn, being the first planted in New England, of which they had a good crop. They were iustructed in the manner of planting by Squanto, but were un- successful in their first trial with English grain, by reason, as is supposed, of the lateness of the season^ and bad quality of the seed. On the fifth of April this year, Governor Carver was taken sick in the field while engaged in planting, and died in a few days. His death was extremely afflictive, and he was univer- sally lamented. He was one of their wisest counsellors, and most indefatigable laborers. His remains were consigned to the earth, with all the affectionate solemnity which circumstan- ces, at the time, would permit, and with the discharge of all their fire-arms. Many able pens have been employed in por- traying his character. According to Dr. Belknap, ^ he was a man of great prudence, integrity, and firmness of mind. He had a good estate in England, which he spent in the migration to Holland and America. He was one of the foremost in ac- tion, and bore a large share of suffering in the service of the colony, who confided in him as its friend and father. Piety, humility, and benevolence were eminent traits in his character, 4 38 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 and it is particularly remembered, that in the time of general sickness, which befel the colony, and with which he was affected, after he had himself recovered, he wag assiduous in attending the sick and performing the most humiliating services for them, without any distinction of persons or characters.' — His affectionate wife, overwhelmed with grief and sorrow, sur- vived but six weeks after his death. He sustained the office of governor four months and twenty-four days only. His pos- terity have been very numerous. ^ One of his grandsons lived to the age of one hundred and two years, and about the middle of the last century, (1775) that descendant, with his son, grandson, and great grandson, were all at the same time at work in the same field, whilst an infant of the fifth generation was within the house at Marshfield.' — Belknap's Jlmer. Biog. At the death of governor Carver, the whole number of deaths was as follows : December, 6 ; January, 8 ; February, 17 ; March, 13. Of this number were 21 of the subscribers to the civil compact, and in April governor Carver was added to that number. The whole number of survivors at this time was 55. Mr. William Bradford, while yet a convalescent from dangerous sickness, was chosen governor of Plymouth, as successor to governor Carver, and Mr. Isaac Allerton was chosen his assistant. On the eighteenth of June, two culprits were arraigned be- fore the company for trial. These were, Edward Dotey and Edward Leister, servants of Stephen Hopkins, who had fought a duel with sword and dagger, in which both were wounded. They were sentenced to have their head and feet tied together, and to remain in that situation for twenty-four hours, without food or drink. Even this slight punishment for an offence so criminal was remitted by the governor, after one hour's endur- ance, in consequence of their pleadings and promises, and the earnest desire of their master. A Journey to Pokanoket; forty miles. This place was other- wise called Sowams. It was deemed advisable to send a friendly deputation to Massasoit, in order to ascertain the exact place of his residence, and his strength and disposition, and to cultivate and perpetuate a league of p^ce and amity between the two parties, and to procure corn for seed. For this pur- pose, the governor made choice of Edward Winslow and Stephen Hopkins, to be accompanied by Squanto, as guide and interpreter. The deputies commenced their journey on the second or third day of July, taking a horseman's coat of red cotton, laced with slight lace as a present to the chief, and reached Namasket, a part of Middleborough, fifteen miles dis- I 1621] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 39 tant, in the afternoon. The native inhabitants received them with joy, and entertained them^in their best manner, giving them a kind of bread, and the roes of shad boiled with musty acorns. The natives complained greatly of the damage they sustained in their corn by the ravages of the crows, and desired to see the experiment of shooting them with English guns 5 about four- score of these birds were soon brought down, to the great amusement of the natives. The gentlemen proceeded on their journey eight miles further, and at sun-set, reached a fishing wear at Titicut, on Taunton river, where abundance of bass was caught. The natives received them in a friendly manner, and supplied them with fish, but destitute of houses, they took lodgings in the open field. An interchange of friendly civili- ties took place. The land on this river appeared rich and fertile, but the native inhabitants had a few years before been swept oflT by pestilence. Massasoit had his residence on this river. The next day they resumed their march, accompanied by six volunteer savages, and, having travelled six miles by the river side, they come to a fording place at low water. Here they were struck with the valor and courage of two savages on the opposite side of the river, two only remaining alive at that place, both aged — one above three score. Seeing a company of men entering the river, they ran to meet them at the bank, where, with shrill voices and manly courage, they charged with their bows, and demanded if they were enemies, and pre- pared to take advantage while in the water. But finding them friends they welcomed them with such food as they had, and the English bestowed on them a small bracelet of beads. The six savages proved useful companions to the ambassadors during their tedious march, aflx)rding them much assistance in crossing rivers, and offering to carry their clothes and guns to relieve them from fatigue and heat. The country through which they passed abounded in good timber, consisting of oak, walnut, fir, beech and chesnut, of immense size; also fine springs of water, but was without inhabitants. Having arrived at a village in Massasoit's territory, they were treated with a meal of fish and oysters, whence they proceeded to Pokanoket; but the chief was absent. One of the English attempted to charge his gun. The women and children fled, and could not be pacified, till ho laid it aside, and the interpreter assured them of their safety. But on the arrival of Massasoit, they saluted him by a full dis- charge of muskets, and he received them with every mark of favor and respect; and having clothed him with the laced red coat, and put the chain about his neck, he" was delighted with the figure he made, and his people viewed their king with 40 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 pride and wonder. In reply to their message, the chief assured them that it was his desire to continue in peace and friendship, and that he would direct his people to that effect, and would send seed-corn to Patuxet, as desired. He then addressed his own people as follows : — ' Am not I Massasoit, commander of the country around you.^ Is not such a town mine, and the people of it.? Will you not bring your skins to the English?' After this manner he named at least thirty places, to every one of which they gave an answer of assent and applause. At the close of his speech, he lighted tobacco for the envoys, and proceeded to discourse about England and the English king, wondering that he would live without a wife. He talked also of the Frenchmen, bidding the English not to suffer them to come to NarragansGt, for it was king James's country, and he was king James's man. Night approaching, and Massasoit having provided no food, as he had been alDsent from home, the gentlemen desired to retire to rest. The lodging place was on a platform of plank raised a foot from the ground ; and their companions were Massasoit and wife and two other In- dians, and they were more weary of their lodging than of their journey. The next day many of the petty sachems and a large party of the people assembled to amuse themselves and the strangers with their games for skins and knives, and one of the English fired at a mark, and they were much surprised to see so many shot holes. At noon, Massasoit brought home two fishes, which he had caught, and these formed the repast for forty people, and the only meal afforded to the messengers for two nights and a day; yet he importuned them to tarry longer. But feeling the want of food, and anxious to keep the ensuing sabbath at home, and moreover despairing of sleep, as the fil- thy lodgings, the noise of the savages singing themselves to sleep, the annoyance of the pestiferous insects within doors, and musquitoes without, left no chance for repose; and think- ing that should they protract their visit, they might not be able to return for want of strength, on Friday morning, before the sun's rising, they took leave and departed, leaving the chief both grieved and ashamed that he could entertain them no bet- ter, Squanto was retained to collect articles for traffic and Tockamahamon appointed to guide them to Plymouth, where they arrived after two days' journey. John Billington, a boy, having been lost in the woods, and inquiry being made, Massasoit sent word that he was at Nau- set. He had wandered about five days, subsisting on berries. The governor sent ten men in a shallop, with Squanto and Tockamahamon, to recover him. In July, the party sailed to- 1621] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 41 wards Nauset, but were overtaken by a violent storm, attended with lightning and thunder; they took shelter that night in the bay, near the harbor of Commaquid. (Barnstable harbor.) — The next morning, some savages, in pursuit of lobsters, in- formed them that the boy was well, but was at Nauset. They invited the English on shore to eat with them; four savages entered the boat as hostages, while six went on shore from the boat. The English were introduced to their sachem, or gov- ernor, named lyanough, a man not exceeding 25 years of age, of comely appearance and courteous, who afforded them a plentiful entertainment. Here they were accosted by an old woman, supposed to be not less than a hundred years old, who had never seen an Englishman; she was weeping with great lamentation, complaining that she had three sons who went on board Captain Hunt's ship to trade with him, and were carried captives into Spain, by which means she was deprived of the comfort of her children in her old age. The English told her they were sorry, that Hunt was a bad man, and all the English condemned him, and that no such injury should be offered by themselves; and, having given her a few trifles, she was some- what pacified. After dinner, they proceeded, accompanied by the sachem, lyanough, and two of his men, to Nauset, and Squanto was sent to Aspinet, the sachem of Nauset, to inform him of their arrival. After sunset, Aspinet came with the boy, and a great train, consisting of not less than one hundred, one half of whom went to the shallop unarmed, carrying the boy in their arms through the water, while the rest remained at a distance, with their bows and arrows. The boy was now de- livered, decorated to excess with beads ; and, having agreed to a peace, and presented the sachem and the man who brought the boy with knives, the parties separated. On their return, lyanough landed at Commaquid, and, to show his kindness, took a runlet and led the seamen in the dark some distance for water. In the mean time, most of his people, men, women, and children, assembled; the women joined hand in hand, singing and dancing, and the scene was closed by lyanough taking a bracelet from his neck and hanging it on one of the English. It was reported by the Nausets, that the Narragan- sets had captured Massasoit, and killed some of his people, and about the same time, Hobomak, a Pinese, or chi :;f captain un- der Massasoit, a lusty young man, attached himself to the English, and devoted his life to their interest and service. On the other hand it was understood that Corbitant, another sachem, had given indications of his attachment to the Narra- gansets, a powerful tribe, and was endeavoring to disaffect the 4* 42 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 subjects of Massasoit towards the colonists, and manifested bis enmity to all that favored his interest. * Squanto and Hobo- mak, anxious to ascertain the situation of their chief, Massasoit, undertook a journey privately for that purpose. They were discovered by Corbitant the first night, and threatened with death. He seized Squanto, and held a knife at his breast, but Hobomak effected his escape to Plymouth, with news that Squanto was killed. The governor, sensible of the justice and importance of protecting the friendly natives, and of showing his own authority, after consulting the whole company, resolved to despatch a party of armed men, with orders to attack their enemies in the night, and in case that Squanto had been killed, to put Corbitant'to death, and bring his head to Plymouth. On the 14th of August, Captain Standish, at the head of ten of the English, and accompanied by the friendly Hobomak, com- menced the expedition, and reached Corbitant's cabin in the night; three Indians, attempting to escape, were badly wound- ed, but it appeared that Squanto had suffered no injury. The next morning, Standish breakfasted at Squanto's, and finding that Corbitant and his friends had escaped, and having accom- plished the object of his expedition, commenced his return home. The consequence of this display of authority on the part of the English was extremely favorable; the natives in that quar- ter were greatly intimidated, and numerous sachems, nearly all in the vicinity, solicited the friendship of the colonists. It ap- peared, on inquiry, that the report of the capture of Massasoit "was a mistake, and Corbitant solicited his good offices to reconcile him to the English; and he, together with sev^eral other chiefs, repaired to Plymouth, to acknowledge themselves the loyal subjects of King James, and subscribed the following paper : September 13th, 1621. ' Know all men by these presents, that we, whose names are underwritten, acknowledge ourselves to be the loyal subjects of King James, King of Great Britain, France and Ireland, * Corbitant resided at Mattapuyst, a neck of land in the township of Swansey. Mr. Winslow, who had freqent conferences with him at his wiowam and at other places, represents him as a 'hollow- hearted friend to the English, a notable politician, yet full of merry jests and squibs, and never better pleased than when the like are returned again upon him.' I 1621] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 43 defender of the faith, &c. In witness whereof, and as a testi- monial of the same, we have subscribed our names, or marks, as followeth.' Subscribed by nine sachems. The colonists had now secured the entire friendship and good services of the great sachem, Massasoit, and, partly by his influence, brought most of the petty sachems to terms of submission and peace. One event had previously occurred, which the natives had in remembrance, and which served to restrain their evil propen- sities. A French ship had been wrecked on Cape Cod, and most of the crew sacrificed. One Frenchman only was per- mitted to Hve among the natives. He told them that God was angry with them for this wickedness, and would destroy them, and give their country to another people. That they should not live like beasts, as they did, but should be clothed, &c. — But they, in derision, replied, that they were so many that God could not kill them. He answered ' that though they were never so many, God had many ways to destroy them that they knew not.' The pestilence which depopulated their country, took place soon after the death of the Frenchman, and the ar- rival of the English soon followed. The prediction being ful- filled, produced a salutary influence on the natives. A tribe called the Massachusetts, had manifested indications of hostility against the English. The governor and company, therefore, desirous to ascertain their strength, particular situ- ation, and circumstances, resolved to send a party to explore the bay on which they resided, and propose to them terms of peace, trade and friendship. Accordingly, on the eighteenth of September, the sliallop was despatched with ten English- men, Squanto for their interpreter, and two other Indians. — They arrived in the harbor of Shawmut, (Boston,) the next day, anchored under a clifi^, which Dr. Belknap supposes to be Copps's Hill, at the bottom of the bay, and twenty leagues from Plymouth, Here they had an interview with the sachem, Obbatinua, one of the parties to the submission signed a few days before at Plymouth. He renewed his submission, receiv- ing a promise of defence against his enemies, particularly against the sachem of Massachusetts. They were treated by the natives with hospitality and respect, after their fears had subsided, and having collected a quantity of beaver, on the 20th in the evening, having the benefit of a light moon, set sail, and arrived at Plymouth before noon the next day. The shallop's crew made such a favorable report respecting the country which they had just visited, as to excite the envy of the colonists, who regretted that it had not fallen to their lot to be seated there, although health was now restored to their 44 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 dwellings, they were gathering in their harvest, provisions were plenty, water fowl and fish abounded, deer and wild tur- keys were in the forest, they had opened a successful traffic with the natives, and their houses were in good condition for the approacliing winter. On the ninth of November, the Fortune, a vessel of fifty-five tons burthen, arrived at Cape Cod, bringing Mr. Robert Cushman, and thirty-five more passengers, whose names follow : * Robert Cushman, William Hilton, John Winslow, William Coner, John Adams, WiUiam Tench, John Cannon, William Wright, Robert Hickes, Thomas Prence, (Prince) after- wards Governor, Stephen Dean, Moses Simonson, (Simmons,) Philip De La Noye, (Delano,) Edward Bompasse, (Bumpus, and Bump,) Clement Brigges, (Briggs,) It was unfortunate that this ship was so long on the voyage, as she had expended nearly all her provisions. She was soon laden with a cargo, valued at £500, consisting of furs, clap- boards, and sassafras, and being provisioned by the planters, (though greatly to their damage) she was despatched on her return voyage, on the 13th of December; but near the English coast she was captured and carried into France, but afterwards released. Mr. Cushman returned in the ship, as the adven- turers had directed, to give them information respecting the plantation. Soon after the departure of the Fortune, the new comers were distributed amongst the several families, and, on taking an estimate of their provisions, it was found necessary to put the whole company on half allowance, to which they cheer- fullv submitted. At this critical juncture, the Narragansets, * Four more of the first company in the Mayflower had died since March, leaving but fifty-one survivors. James Steward, (Stewart,) William Pitts, William Palmer, probably two in his family, Jonathan Brewster, Bennet Morgan, Thomas Elavil, and his son, Hugh Stacie, (Stacy,) William Beale, Thomas Cushman, Austin Nicolas, (Nicholas,) Widow Foord, probably four in her family, Thomas Morton, William Bassite, (Bassett,) two probably in his family. • 1622] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 45 learning that the ship brought neither arms nor provisions, be- gan to manifest hostile intentions. Their threats and prepara- tions were well known to the English. At length they sent messengers to the plantation, with a bundle of arrows tied to- gether with a snake skin. This the English received as a war challenge, and governor Bradford informed the chief sa- chem, Cannonicus, that if they loved war they might begin it, as he was not unprepared. By an Indian, the governor, after consulting the settlers, sent back the snake's skin stuffed with gunpowder and bullets, with a verbal message of defiance. This produced the desired effect. The sachem was intimidat- ed, dared not touch the snake's skin, nor let it remain in his house, but returned it to the English unopened. The settlers now judged it prudent to enclose their houses by a strong im- palement, which was completed in February. They also, for further security, enclosed part of the hill, and formed bulwarks with gates to be locked at night, and watch and ward was kept during the day. The enclosed ground afforded a garden for each family. The whole company was divided into four squad- rons, and each one had its particular posts assigned it, in case of alarm. One of the companies was directed to attend par- ticularly to any fires that might happen, while others were to serve as guards with their muskets. In all these military ar- rangements for the security of the town, Captain Standish was their main dependence, and he proved himself well deserving their confidence. 1622. About the beginning of April, another expedition on a trading voyage to the Massachusetts was in preparation, when Hobomak intimated his fears that the Narragansetts and the Massachusetts had formed a private league against the Eng- lish for their destruction, and, by sending off a part of their force, the town would be exposed to great danger from the Narragansetts, ^hile those on the expedition would be destroyed by the Massachusetts. These apprehensions, however, did not prevent the expjJ|ition. Captain Standish, with ten principals men, taking both Squanto and Hobomak, proceeded on the voyage. Having reached the mouth of the harbor ne^x the Gurnet's nose, they were becalmed, and came to anchor. While there, an Indian of Squanto's family came running into town with his face covered with blood, calling to the people abroad to make haste home, saying he received the wound in his face for speaking for the English, and frequently looking back as if the assailants were fast behind him. He informed the Governor that there were many Narragansetts, together with Massasoit and Corbitant and others, approaching to as- 46 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1622 sault the town, in the absence of Captain Standish. Upon this, information, the governor ordered three pieces of cannon to be fired. Standish and his crew, taking the alarm, immediately returned, and prepared for action. Hobomak was positive that it was all fiction, as it proved. He was a Pinese, he said, and such an enterprise would not be undertaken by Massasoit with- out consulting him. At the request of the Governor, he sent his wife to Massasoit's residence, pretending other business, to inform herself of the true state of things. She found all quiet, and that no mischief had been intended. She then informed Massasoit of what had occurred at Plymouth, who was much offended with Squanto for his conduct. After this affair, Stan- dish prosecuted his voyage to the Massachusetts, made a good trade, and returned Tn safety. It was now seen by the English that Squanto \yas not be relied on, that he was actuated by selfish views, endeavoring to make his countrymen believe that he had great influence with the English, as he understood their language; in consequence of which he deluded many, and gained some advantages to himself He made the natives be- lieve, that the English were their enemies, that they kept the plague buried in the ground, and could spread it through the country at pleasure, which created great terror among the In- dians, and induced them to place much dependence on him, to secure for them the friendship of the English. Some barrels of gunpowder v/ere buried under ground in the store-house, and when taken out, Hobomak inquired of Squanto what they were ? He replied, that they contained the plague, which he had formerly mentioned. Hobomak inquired of an English- man if this was true; he answered, no ! but the God of the English possessed it, and could use it for the destruction of his enemies, and the enemies of the English. Such were the de- vices, and such the dupUcity of Squanto, to increase his influ- ence among his brethren; and it was perceived that he had succeeded but too well in obtaining for himself rhe respect due to Massasoit only. The planters spared no {^uis to counteract these proceedings, by assuring the natives trfit Squanto was a deceiver, and that they had no reason to fear the English, so long as they conducted peaceably towards them, Massasoit, at length, became so embittered against Squanto, that, on a visit at Plymouth, he demanded of governcH" Bradford, that he should be put to death; but this was refused, and aft^ his re- turn home, he sent messengers to repeat the deman^ assert- ing his claim to Squanto as his subject, according t^he terms of the existing treaty. The demand was repeated #^ith suqh pressing importunity, that the governor admitted that he de- 1622] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 47 served death, and was about to deliver him up, though with great reluctance, as Squanto was the only one who understood both languages, by which the necessary intercourse could be kept up. Massasoit offered many beaver skins in exchange for Squanto, but the governor disdained to sell his Hfe, but as- sured the messengers that Squanto had justly forfeited it by his falsehood and deceit. With the messengers, Massasoit sent his own knife for the avowed purpose of cutting off Squanto's head and hands, and the culprit readily yielded himself and submitted his life, without the least apparent reluctance to the will of the governor. At the moment when he was about to be delivered into the hands of the messengers, a shallop appeared in the offing ; the governor having heard many rumors of the French, and, doubtful whether there were not combinations between them and the savages, refused to deliver Squanto up, until he should first have ascertained what boat was approach- ing. Thus Squanto escaped, for the messengers, vexed at the delay, immediately departed in great rage. The boat in ques- tion proved to be a shallop belonging to a fishing vessel, the property of Thomas Weston, a merchant in London, which, with about thirty others, was employed in the fishing business, on the eastern shore near Penobscot. This was in the month of May, when the whole colony was entirely destitute of bread, and their other provisions were almost expended. It was out of season for sea-fowl, and they were unprovided with seins and hooks for fishing. They had subsisted on clams and other shell fish, until they were greatly debilitated. The shallop, above mentioned, brought six or seven passengers from the fishing vessels from London to be added to the planters, but no supply of provisions. Governor Bradford despatched Edward Winslow, to purchase articles of provision of the fishermen, but none could be obtained, excepting from the generosity of one Captain, who||upplied them gratuitously with bread, suffi- cient to give each-Allison in the plantation a quarter of a pound daily until the hafUlP. ' This was the daily portion,' says Mr. Winslow, ' which was distributed : until now, we were never without some bread, the want whereof much abated the strength and flesh of some, and swelled others — and, indeed, had we not been in a place where divers sorts of shell fish are, that may be taken with the hand, we must have perished, linless God had raised some unknown or extraordinary means for our preservation.' In addition to this calamity, the Indians threatened them, and boasted how easily they could effect their destruction, and Massasoit, even manifested a coolness and indifference about 48 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1622 his English friends. In the mean time, news arrived of a hor- rible massacre of the English in Virginia on the 27th of March, 1622. Three hundred and forty-seven of the English were slain by the Indians. ' The massacre was conducted with in- discriminate barbarity. No regard was shown to dignity, no gratitude for benefits.' Jwstly alarmed for their safety, they immediately began to build a strong and handsome fort, taking in the top of the hill under which our town is seated, with a flat roof and battlement, on which cannons were mounted, and a watch kept. The lower part was used as a place of public worship. Thus did these pious people offer their devout aspi- rations to God with the sword in one hand and the bible in the other. ^ About the end of March,' says Mr. Winslow, * our store of victuals was wholly spent, having lived long before on a bare and short allowance.' As to the insufficient stock of provisions brought by the Fortune, he suggests as an apology for their friends in England, ^ certain among ourselves were too prodigal in writing" and reporting that we enjoyed a plenty.' The colony now in June and July, consisted of about one hundred persons in tolerable health; who had, this season, planted sixty acres of corn, and whose gardens afforded ample supplies of vegetables. Thomas Weston, a merchant in London, was originally one of the merchant adventurers. He encouraged the emigration, and actively promoted the Plymouth settlement, until this year. Why he now withdrew his patronage, could not be known, but by a letter from him, addressed to governor Carver, ' we find,' says governor Bradford, ^ he has quite deserted us, and is going to settle a plantation of his own. And having pro- cured for himself a patent of a tract of land in Massachusetts Bay, he sent two ships, the Charity and the Swan, with fifly or sixty men, at his own charge, to settle a plantation. These adventurers arrived at Plymouth about June or July, many of them in a sickly condition; and most of them remained there the greater part of the summer, and reclp^d from the inhabi- tants every hospitality and kindness which the place could af- ford. But they were ungrateful enough to commit numerous thefts, and waste the provisions of the planters who furnished them. At length they located themselves on Weston's land, at a place called Wessagusset, in the Massachusetts Bay, (now Weymouth). This was a rival settlement, and consisted of profligate miscreants altogether unfit for such an enterprise, and proved very troublesome neighbors. In the month of August, another ship arrived from England, called the Discovery, commanded by Captain Jones, the former 1622] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 49 commander of the Mayflower; and also the Sparrow, belong- ing to Mr. Weston, which had been employed on a fishing voy- age. Captain Jones brought a large supply of trinkets, suita- ble for traffic with the natives, but his enormous demand for the articles, and unwillingness to sell but in large quantities, showed his disposition to take an ungenerous advantage of the famishing planters, and compel them to purchase at exorbitant prices that they might traffic with the natives for corn. Weston's undeserving company soon squandered away their provisions, and were reduced to a state of starvation; thieving among the natives was their next resort. They were continu- ally exasperating the savages against both settlements, till at length they became contemptible in the eyes of the natives themselves. One of them was so greatly enfeebled for want of food, that, in attempting to dig clams, his feet got caught in the mud and, before he could be extricated, perished. They would debase themselves by the most abject services for the natives, who, in return, would rob them of their miserable food and blankets while asleep. Pressing and clamorous complaints were made by the Indians to the governor, and some were stocked and some whipped, without amendment; at length, to appease the injured savages, it was thought neces- sary to hang one of those who had been convicted of stealing. ' A waggish report became current that the real offisnder was spared, and that a poor decrepid old man, that was unservicea- ble to the company, was hung in his stead. ' Upon this story,' says Mr. Hubbard, in his MS. History of New England, ' the merry gentleman that wrote the poem called Hudibras did, in his poetical fancy, make so much sport.' The passage refer- red to is well known. ' Our brethren of New England use Choice malefactors to excuse, And hang the guiltless in their stead, Of whom the churches have less need.' HudihraSj part ii. canto 2. Mr. Hubbard seriously contradicts the story, but with a qualification, that would not, perhaps, have deprived the poet of an allusion so convenient for his purpose, and so congenial to his feelings. As Mr, Hubbard had the account from the Ply- mouth people, the person hanged was really guilty of stealing, as were many of the rest; yet it is possible, that justice might be executed, not on him that most deserved it, but on him that could best be spared, or who was not likely to live long, if he had been let alone.' — JVeiv England Memorial. 5 50 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 1623. Partly to benefit Weston's starving people, and partly to provide for his own families, governor Bradford agreed to accompany them in the Swan, their own ship, on an expedition to Cape Cod, to procure corn from the natives. He afterwards went a second time, in company with Captain Standish in an- other shallop, after the Captain had recovered from sickness. These voyages were attended with the greatest hazard, by reason of violent storms; but they returned in safety, and brought a good supply of corn, which they divided equally be- tween the two plantations. At Nauset the shallop was stranded in a storm; part of the corn and beans, of which they had 26 or 28 hogsheads, was stacked and covered with mats and left in charge of the Indians. The governor procuring a guide, travelled home on foot, receiving much respect from the natives by the way, and was weary with galled feet and disappointment. In this first voyage the governor took Squanto as an inter- preter and pilot, but unfortunately he was seized with a mortal fever at Cape Cod, of which he soon died. This loss was se- verely felt, as his place could not be supplied. Although on a former occasion his conduct was somewhat exceptionable, yet, as interpreter and pilot, the English always found him faithful and .ready to devote himself to their service. ' A short time previous to his death, he requested governor Bradford to pray that he might go to the Englishman's God in heaven; and he bequeathed his little property to his English friends, as remembrances of his love.' January. Captain Standish made frequent successful ex- cursions during the winter, to traffic for corn and furs. While his shallop lay in a creek at Nauset, an Indian stole from him some beads, scissors, and other trifles. Standish complained to the sachem, and threatened him and his people with punish- ment, unless they were restored. The next day, the sachem with a number of his men appeared to make satisfaction. First, by way of salutation, he thrust out his tongue to its full length, and drew it across the Captain's wrist and hand to his finger ends. Next, he attempted to bow the knee in imitation of the English, having been instructed by Squanto. All his men followed his example, but in so awkward a manner, that the English could scarce refrain from breaking out in open laugh- ter. After this ceremony, he delivered back the stolen goods, assuring the captain that he had punished the thief He then directed the women to make some bread for the company, and expressed his sorrow for the theft, and was glad to be recon- ciled. February. Captain Standish, being on a visit to Mattachiest 1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 51 (Barnstable) to purchase corn, the people freely supplied him, pretending to regard him with great friendship and respect. Several strangers also appeared, wishing only to see him and his company, but Standish saw reason to suspect that they were planning to kill him. He, therefore, ordered that part of his company should remain awake, and watch all night. It was not long before some beads were stolen. Standish, having but six men with him, ordered that all should leave the boat, and surround the house which contained the sachem and his peo- ple. He now assured them that as he would not offer the least injury to one of them, so he would receive none from any person, and demanded the stolen articles. The sachem, having directed the thief to go slily and put them into the boat, de- sired the Captain to search for them there; he, suspecting their knavery, sent a man who found the articles lying in plain sight on the boat's cuddy. These people now supplied him with corn enough to load his shallop. These spirited mea- sures produced an admirable effect upon these faithless people, and kept them in constant fear. March. On a visit to Manomet,* Captain Standish was apprehensive that the natives were plotting his destruction. Being some distance from his boat, with only two or three men, and the same number at the boat, he entered the house of Canancum, the sachem; soon after which, two of the Mas- sachusetts Indians entered. The chief one, called Wattawa- mat, was a notable, insulting villain, who had formerly imbrued his hands in the blood of English and French, and had often boasted of his own valor, and derided the weakness of the English, especially, as he said, because they died crying, mak- ing sour faces, more like children than men. This fellow took a dagger from his neck, and presented it to the sachem, ac- companied by a long speech, which the Captain could not un- derstand, but which was of the following purport. The Mas- sachusetts had concluded to destroy Weston's company, but dare not attempt it, till they could gather strength enough to destroy the Plymouth people also, as they would never leave the death of their countrymen unrevenged, and they could not * Manometis the name of a creek, or river, which runs through the town of Sandwich into the upper part of Buzzard's Bay, for- merly called Manomet Bay. Between this and Scusset Creek, is the place, which, for more than a century, has been thought of, as proper to be cut through, to form a communication by a navigable canal from Barnstable Bay to Buzzard's Bay. It is only six miles across. 52 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 be safe unless both plantations were overthrown. To this end, they formerly had solicited this sachem, and also lyanough at Mattachiest, and many others, to assist them; and now, since there was so fair an opportunity by the Captain's presence, it was best they should make sure of him and his company. The savages endeavored to persuade Standish to send for the remainder of the boat's crew, but he refused. At the same time there was a lusty Indian of Paomet (Truro) present, who had professed friendship for the English, especially for Stand- ish. This savage was in confederacy with the rest, but was very artful in keeping up appearances, offering many presents, saying he was rich, and could afford to bestow such favors on his friends whom he loved. He also offered to carry some of his corn to the shallop, a kind of labor which he said he had never performed for any man in his life before. And that he might have a better opportunity to kill the Captain, he impor- tuned him to lodge at his hut, but the weather was so exces- sively cold that he was unable to sleep, and kept about the fire. The Indian frequently inquired why he did not sleep as usual, and urged him to it, but he replied that he had no desire to rest. The next day, the Indian embarked with Standish, and urged him to accompany him to Paomet, promising to supply him with corn, which the Captain complied with, not in the least suspecting an evil design; but the boat was forced back by a contrary wind, and returned to Plymouth. Thus the sav- age in two attempts was providentially frustrated in his diaboli- cal intentions. March. Visit to Massasoit. Information being received that Massasoit was dangerously sick, and that a Dutch ship was stranded near his house, the governor sent Edward Win- slow and John Hampden, with Hobomak, to visit him and min- ister to his comfort, as this act is not only commendable in it- self, but is conformable to the prevailing custom among the natives in case of sickness. Mr. Hampden was a gentleman from London, says Winslow, who was spending the winter at Plymouth, and was desirous of seeing the country. Dr. Bel- knap supposes this to be the same person who distinguished himself by his opposition to the illegal and arbitrary demands of King Charles I.* [Biog. vol. ii. p. 229.] Winslow was * ' When wandering about the woods of Pakanok, or along" the banks of Taunton river, or sleeping- in Indian huts, little did Hamp- den dream of the fate which awaited him. Little did he think that it was reserved for him to commence the overthrow of the British monarchy, and to shed his blood in the first daring attempt for a 1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 55 acquainted with the Dutch language, and it was desirable to have a conference with them; he was, moreover, a warm friend of Massasoit, and h& ^ovided for the occasion some comfortable cordials, &c. The first night they lodged with their Indian friends at Namasket; the next day, about one o'clock, they came to a ferry in Corbitant's country, (Slade's ferry in Svvansey) where they met with many Indians, who in- formed them that Massasoit was dead, and was that day to be buried, and that the Dutch ship would be off before they could arrive. This was unwelcome news, and Hobomak wished to return immediately to Plymouth. But Winslow, conceiving that Corbitant would probably succeed Massasoit, and that the distance was only three miles to his dwelling-place, (Matta- poiset), prevailed on Hampden and Hobomak to proceed, al- though the yisit might be attended with danger, as Corbitant was considered to be unfriendly. Hobomak immediately be- gan to manifest his great grief, exclaiming often on the way, ' Neen womasu sagimus, neen womasu sagimus, &c. My lov- ing sachem, my loving sachem, many have I known, but never any like thee.' And turning to Mr. Winslow, he said, * Whilst I live I shall never see his like amongst the lAdians; he was no liar, he was not bloody and cruel, like other Indians. In anger and passion he was soon reclaimed; easy to be recon- ciled towards such as had offended him; ruled by reason, not scorning the advice of mean men; governing his men better with few strokes than others did with many, truly loving where he loved, and he feared that the English had not a faithful friend left among the Indians,' &c. In this strain of lamenta- tion and sorrow he continued, till they arrived at Corbitant's house; but he being gone to visit Massasoit, the squaw sachem gave them a kind entertainment, and informed them that the free constitution in England.' — Baylies, vol. i. p. 110. We are not aware that such a visit by Hampden is mentioned by any British writer. We have never met with ' the memorial of John Hampden, by Lord Nugent,' but, from the notice of this work in the Edinburgh Review, we infer there was no knowledge of the fact of such a visit. At this period, (1620) he had not risen to dis- tinction, but he was the father of a family, and a member of Parlia- ment, and a total silence as to such a voyage, especially in epistolary correspondence, is a little diiRcult to be accounted for. It is a known fact, however, that Hampden had a partiality for the puritans, and was a warm friend to the New England Colonies, and it is cer- tain also, that, at a subsequent period, he, with his relative, Oliver Cromwell, was actually on ship board, bound to New England, and was stopped by order of the royal government. 5* 54 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 death of Massasoit was not certainly known, but supposed. Winslow hired an Indian to go with all expedition to Pokano- ket and ascertain the fact, and inform Corbitant that they were at his house. News was soon brought that the king was not dead, though there was no hope that they would find him liv- ing. On their arrival, they found that the Dutch ship had sailed, and that Massasoit still breathed. His hut was filled and surrounded with people. The pawaws were in the diligent exercise of their incantations and charms for him. making a 'hellish noise,' terrifying both sick and well, and six or eight women were chafing his limbs. Massasoit was apparently ex- piring, his sight had wholly left him, but being told that his English friends had come to see him, he inquired who had come, and on being told Winslow, he desired to speak to him; on his approach he put forth his hand and said twice, though very feebly, keen Winsnoio ? Art thou Winslow ? Yes. Then he doubled these words, matre neen ivonekanet naimen Winsnoiv.' ' O Winslow, I shall never see you again.' Winslow then de- sired Hobomak to tell him, that the governor was grieved to learn that he was sick, and being unable to come himself, had sent him with some comfortable things for his relief, and gave him some conserve on the point of a knife. With much difficul- ty he got this through his teeth, and Massasoit swallowed a little, which he had not done for the last two days. Winslow next endeavored to cleanse his mouth, which was excessively loaded with filth, and his tongue so much swollen as fo impede his swallowing. He continued his kind attention to his patient, repeating his applications till all appearances were favorable, and he, within an hour, obtained some sleep. Mr. Winslow now proposed to send a messenger to Plymouth for a further supply of such articles as he required; with which the chief was delighted, and soon despatched a messenger. In the mean time, Winslow made him some broth of corn meal, boiled with sassafras root and strawberry leaves, which he relished. He requested Winslow the next day to take his piece and kill him some fowl and make him some broth. The sachem derived great benefit from the kindness of Mr. Winslow, of which he and all his people w^ere truly sensible, and for which they expressed their sincere gratitude. He exclaimed, now I see the English are my friends, and love me, and whilst I live I will never forget this kindness they have shown me. He earnestly desired that Winslow would visit the sick people in the town, and wash their mouths also, and give to each of them some of the same good things which he had given him. Winslow and Hampden, on taking their departure, received 1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 55 the blessings of the king and his people. When about to de- part, Massasoit privately informed Hobomak, that there was an extensive combination of Indians for the destruction of Wes- ton's colony; that the Massachusetts had drawn a great num- ber of sachems into the confederacy; and that during his sick- ness he had been earnestly solicited to join them, but had re- fused, and forbidden his people to be influenced by them. He advised that the Massachusetts should be immediately attacked and cut off", as the only way to avert the threatened danger. If the English regard their own safety, let them strike the first blow, for after the settlers at Wessagusset should be killed, it would be too late for the Plymouth people to withstand so many enemies. Corbitant earnestly desired that Winslow and Hampden would lodge one night with him at Mattapoiset, on their way to Plymouth. They complied with this request, and were much entertained with his merry humor and jocose con- versation. He asked whether if he were sick and should send word to Plymouth, the governor would send him physic, and whether Mr. Winslow would visit him; and being answered in the afiirmative, he returned his thanks. He inquired of Wins- low, how he and Hampden dared to come, being but two men, so far into the country .> Winslow replied, that his heart was so upright towards them that he had no fear in coming amongst them. But, said Corbitant, if your heart be so pure, and pro- duces such fruits, why, when we come to Plymouth, are the mouths of your pieces presented towards us? This* said Wins- low, is an honor which it is our custom to bestow on our best friends. But, shaking his head, he answered, that he liked not such salutations. He next inquired into the reason of asking grace and returning thanks, before and after eating. Wins- low answered that all the good things of this life, came from God, and it is proper that we should crave his blessing and express our thankfulness on all such occasions; to which he assented. The gentlemen left Corbitant's dwelling much gratified with their entertainment. March '23d. — This being their annual court day, the gover- nor laid before the whole company the evidence which he had obtained of the hostile combination of the several tribes of In- dians against the settlement at Wessagusset. It was resolved, that Captain Standish should take with him as many men as he should deem necessary to encounter all the Indians in Massa- chusetts bay — that he should disclose his designs to Weston's people, and secure Wattawamat, a bold and bloody warrior, and bring home his head. Captain Standish would take but eight men for this service, 56 HISTORY 0^ PLYMOUTH. [1623 besides Hobomak, lest he should excite suspicion. On his ar- rival, his designs were suspected. An Indian said he saw by his eyes that he was angry in his heart, and, therefore, believed that their plot was discovered. Pecksuot, a bold-spirited In- dian, and a Pinese, that is, counsellor and warrior, said to Ho- bomak, that he understood that the Captain had come to kill him and the rest of the tribe. Tell him, said he, we know it, but fear him not; let him begin when he dares; he will not take us unawares. Many of them would often whet and sharpen their knives, and use insulting speeclies and gestures before his face. They were in the habit of wearing knives suspended at the breast, in sheaths tied about the neck. Wattawamat bragged of the excellency of his knife, having on the handle a' woman's face; but he said he had another at home, with which he had killed both French and English, having a man's face on it, and these two must marry, and by and by it shall see and it shall eat, but not speak. Pecksuot, being a large man, said, that though Standish was a great Captain, he was but a little man; but he himself, though no sachem, was yet a man of great strength and courage. Standish, though high-spirited and irritable, submitted patiently to these abusive provocations, till a favorable opportunity should occur. The next day the valiant Captain found means to get Pecksuot, Wattawamat, and a third Indian, with Wattawamat's brother, eighteen years old, an insulting villain, into a room, and having about an equal number of his own men he made the door fast and gave the signal, beginning himself with Pecksuot; he snatched his own knife from his neck, a struggle for life ensued, the knife was two-edged and the savage had sharpened it to a needle's point. This was instantly plunged into his bosom, and repeat- ed strokes were given, the victim resisting to the last breath. Wattawamat and the other Indians were also slain at the same time, and the young man was taken, and afterwards hanged. The struggle was awful, but without noise. Hobomak was a calm spectator of the appalling scene; after it was closed, he said to the Captain, yesterday Pecksuot, bragging of his own strength and stature, said, though you were a great Captain yet you were but a little man: but to-day I see you are big enough to lay him on the ground. Two more Indians were slain by Weston's men. Proceeding to another place, Stand- ish killed an Indian; and afterwards met a file of savages, which he encountered; and, after a skirmish, compelled them to fly into a swamp; he challenged the sachem to a single com- bat, but he refused. Weston's people, now seeing their danger, resolved to quit 1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, 57 their plantation, and requested the assistance of Captain Stan- dish in conveying them to the fishing vessels at Monhiggon, hoping to find a passage to England. The Captain told them that he should not feel himself in danger to reside there with fewer men than their number; but, at their desire, he would furnish them with corn sufficient for their subsistence, till they could arrive at the fishing vessels, although it would almost exhaust their own store, and stint them for seed corn. Seeing them under sail in their vessel, and clear of Massachusetts Bay, he returned to Plymouth in his own shallop, bringing with him a few men that preferred a residence ia Plymouth. Thus, within one year, was the settlement of Wessagusset broken up, and the worthless rabble dispersed. Captain Standish, on his return, brought with him the head of Wattawamat, as directed, and it was placed on the fort as a terror to the Indians. There was at this time an Indian chained to the floor in the fort, having been detected in the conspiracy; he recognised the head, and was exceedingly terrified; he ac- knowledged the existence of the plot, but not his own guilt. He entreated earnestly for his life, which was granted, and he returned with a message of caution to his brethren. ' The In- dians generally, who had been prepared to join the Massachu- setts, were terrified by these acts of severe execution. They forsook their dwellings, wandered about bewildered, living in swamps and deserts, and contracted diseases, of which many died. Canancum, sachem of Manomet, Aspinet of Nauset, and the interesting lyanough, were among the victims of these complicated miseries. When Rev. Mr. Robinson received the news of these transactions, he wrote to the church at Ply- mouth, 'to consider the disposition of their Captain, who was of a warm temper.' He hoped the Lord had sent him among them for good, if they used him right; but he doubted whether there was not wanting that tenderness of the life of man, made after God's image, which was meet; he thought ' it would have been happy if they had converted some, before they had killed any.' These sentiments are honorable to Mr. Robinson. They indicate a generous philanthropy, which must always gain our affection, and should ever be cherished. Still the transactions, to which the strictures relate, are defensible. As to Standish, Dr. Belknap places his defence on the rules of duty imposed by his character, as the military servant of the colony. The government, it is presumed, will be considered as acting under severe necessity, and will require no apology, if the reality of the conspiracy be admitted, of which there can be little doubt. It is certain, that they were fully per- 53 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 suaded of its existence, and, with the terrible example of the Virginia massacre in fresh remembrance, had solemn duties to discharge. The existence of the whole settlement was at hazard. '=^ First Patent. The first patent of Plymouth had been taken out in the name of John Pierce, in trust for the company of adventurers; but when he saw the promising state of their set- tlement, and the favor which their success had obtained for them with the counsel for New England, he, without their knowledge, but in their name, procured another patent of larger extent, intending to keep it for his own benefit, and hold the adventurers as his tenants, to sue and be sued at his courts. In pursuance of this design, in the autumn of the last year he despatched the ship Paragon, of which William Pierce was master, for New-England, but in 14 days she was forced back by severe storms, having got no farther than the Downs. The Paragon was repaired at the expense of one hundred pounds, and again despatched, but in this attempt the mariners, about the middle of February, were obliged in a terrible storm to cut away their mainmast, and return to Portsmouth. Pierce was then on board with 109 souls. After these successive losses and disappointments, he was induced to assign to the company of adventurers for £500, the patent which had cost him but £oO. A new ship called the Ann, which had been built by the company to be sent to this country, was now employed to trans- port the passengers and goods, and she arrived at Plymouth in July, of which William Pierce, having quit the Paragon, was master. The Ann and the Little James of 44 tons, which soon followed her track, brought supplies for the plantation which were much needed, and about sixty passengers. The goods, with the charge of passengers in the ship, cost the com- pany <£640. The Paragon arrived at Plymouth in the month of June, under the command of Francis West, who was com- missioned to be Admiral of New-England, with power to re- strain such ships as came either to fish or trade on the coast without license from the New-England council; but finding the fishermen too stubborn and strong for him, he sailed for Vir- ginia. The owners of the fishing vessels complained to the Parliament of this attempted restraint, and procured an order that fishing should be free. The Colonists were essentially benefitted by a vast abundance of bass, caught in the creeks; on some occasions, 1500 were taken at one tide: when these resources failed they resorted to * Judge Davis's edit. New-England Memorial, p. 91. 1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ' 59 the never-failing clam banks. It was their misfortune, in the early part of the summer, to be reduced to the severest suffer- ings, threatening a famine, by a scantiness of provisions. A vessel with supplies, which they expected in the spring, was twice obliged to put back by stress of weather, and did not arrive till August. In May, they planted an unusual quantity of Indian corn, but it was so ordered, that a drought of six weeks continuance cut off all their favorable prospects. Until the middle of July, the earth was as ashes, the produce scorched as before a fire, and the hopes of man were overthrown. In this extremity, as in all adverse circumstances, these pious suf- ferers invoked the God of heaven for relief. A day of humil- iation and prayer was appointed; the morning was fair and the sky cloudless; their fervent religious worship was continued eight or nine hours without ceasing. At night the clouds were seen to gather, and the sky was overcast; the next morning they were cheered with moderate refreshing showers, and the rains continued to descend at intervals for fourteen days. The natives were struck with amazement. Hobomak, during the continuance of the drought, expressed his grief and concern lest the English should lose all their corn, and starve. The Indians, said he, can live on fish. But after the rain he re- joiced and said, ' No\y I see Englishman's God is a good God, for he hears you and sends rain, and without storms and tem- pests which break down our corn; surely he is a good God.' At a convenient season they also solemnized a day of public thanksgiving for rain, and for a supply of provisions from Eng- land. ^ By the time our corn is planted,' said Bradford, ^ our victuals are spent, not knowing at night where to have a bit in the morning, and have neither bread nor corn for three or four months together; yet bear our wants with cheerfulness, and rest on Providence.' The devout elder Brewster lived for many months together without bread, and chiefly or^. fish and clams, yet with this scanty fare, he, with his family, would give thanks that they could * suck of the abundance of the seas, and of the treasures hid in the sand,' In winter, much use was made of ground nuts instead of bread, and wild fowls were constantly to be obtained in the marshes and creeks, and not unfrequently a deer was brought from the forest, which were divided among the whole company. It has been stated that they were at one time reduced to a single pint of corn, which being equally divided gave to each person five kernels, which were parched and eaten. The first establishment of the planters embraced such circumstances, as to maintain a com- munity of interest, as respects the cultivation of the land, an4 60 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 the product was necessarily thrown into the common stock. — By the articles of agreement with the merchant adventurers in England, the personal services of the planters, and of their wives and children, were estimated at a stipulated rate, and to make common stock with property advanced, either by them or their adventurers. But this year it was judged advisable to change the system and create an individual interest, by allow- ing every family the product of its labor to its own particular use. Each family to have a certain parcel of land in propor- tion to its numbers, on the condition only of a certain portion of the corn set apart at the harvest for those- who were engaged in public business and for the fishermen. This arrangement operated as a stimulus to individual industry, and a larger quantity of corn was planted this year than before. Among the passengers who arrived in the two ships, the Ann and the Little James, in July and August, were Timothy Hatherly, George Morton, and John Jenney, with the wives and children of some who had arrived before. By these, letters were re- ceived from their agent, Mr. Cushman, and from the adven- turers. Mr. Cushman writes ' Some few of your old friends are come; they come dropping to you, and by degrees; I hope ere long you sharll enjoy them all.' The adventurers write, ' Let it not be grievous to you, that you have been instruments to break the ice for others, who come after with less difficulty; the honor shall be yours to the world's end. We bear you always in our breasts, and our hearty affection is towards you all, as are the hearts of hundreds more, which never saw your faces, who doubtless pray for your safety as their own.' These new comers were extremely affected with the misera- ble condition of those who had been almost three years in the country. An interview with old friends under such suffering circumstances was truly appalling. ' The best dish we could present them with,' says governor Bradford, 'is a lobster or piece of fish, without bread, or any thing else but a cup of fair spring water; and the long continuance of this diet, with our labors abroad, has somewhat abated the freshness of our com- plexions; but God gives us health.' First Juinj. — It appears from the following ordinance, that this little band of exiles duly appreciated the privilege of trial by jury : ^It is ordained, this 17th day of December, A. D. 1623, by this court, then held, that all criminal facts, and also all mat- ters of trespass and debts between man and man, shall be tried by the verdict of twelve honest men, to be impannelled ay au- thority, in form of a jury upon their oaths.' — Colony Records. 1624] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 61 Under August 14th of this year, Mr. Prince places the fourth marriage in the settlement, governor Bradford to Mrs. Alice Southvvorth. This is taken, it is said, from the governor's re- gister. A more particular account will be given under the year 1657. On the 10th of September, the Ann sailed for London, on company account, laden with clapboards, and all the beaver and other furs which had been collected at Plymouth. Mr. Edward Winslow went passenger in the Ann, ' to inform how things are,' says governor Bradford, 'and procure what we want. ' 1624. — The colonists had hitherto appointed but one assist- ant to the governor; but the present year, by the request of Mr. Bradford, four others were added, and to the governor was given a double vote. Governor Bradford on this occasion strongly recommended a rotation in the office, alleging that if it were any honor or benefit, others beside himself should par- take of it; if it were a burden, others should help to bear it. But he was, notwithstanding, re-elected, and repeatedly af- terwards. On the request of the people to the governor that they might have some land for permanent use, instead of the accustomed assignment by annual lot, he gave every person an acre for himself and his family, as near to the town as was convenient.* Edward Winslow, having been sent to England the last year, as an agent for the colony, on his return home brought three heifers and a bull, which were the first neat cattle brought to Plymouth. The settlers were destitute of milk the first four years. Mr. Winslow was absent but six months, and brought with him provisions and clothing. When we consider the sequestered situation of our puritan fathers, and their privations and sufferings, it is scarcely credi- ble that a spirit of enmity should subsist against them on the other side of the Atlantic. But such was the fact; a division among the adventurers took place, a party of them were dis- satisfied with the affairs of the colonists; groundless calumnies were urged against them; and it was determined, if possible, to prevent Rev. Mr. Robinson and the remainder of his church from coming over, alleging that their narrow scheme of reli- * The particular location of these lots to each individual family respectively, may be found in Judge Davis's edition of the Me- morial and also in Hon. Mr. Baylies' Historical Memoir, vol. i. page 257. 62 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1624 gious polity was unfriendly to a trading establishment. With Mr. Winslovv, one John Lyford, a preacher, but a man of loose morals, was sent over by some of the adventurers. This man, on his first arrival, saluted the planters apparently with great reverence and humility, bowing and cringing in a very unbecoming manner, and even wept when blessing '■ God that had brought him to see their faces.' The governor treated him with all respect, and g,dmitted him into his councils with Elder Brewster, and others. He soon desired to be received into fellowship with their church, making a confession of his faith, and a humble acknowledgment of his former sinful courses, and blessed God for the opportunity of disburdening his conscience, 8lc. It was not long before he was observed in close intimacy with one John Oldham, a man of turbulent and restless spirit, and the mischievous effects of this association soon became manifest. They diffused a factious spirit among the more vicious part of the populace, who could be brought in opposition to the colonists, and in aid of their enemies in Eng- land. Lyford wa& observed to be much engaged in writing letters to go by the return ship to England, and was not very careful to conceal a knowledge of their contents from those whom they most concerned. It was even boasted openly, among the confidants of Lyford and Oldham, that their letters would effect a change of affairs at Plymouth. The governor, apprehensive that these letters would be productive of evil consequences, should they reach their destination in England, thought himself bound to intercept them. He went on board the vessel in the harbor, and, on representing to Capt. Wil- liam Pierce, the commander, his suspicions, it was agreed that the letters should be unsealed, as the welfare of the colony was doubtless deeply involved in the issue. A scene of perfidy was now disclosed, making it evident that they were scheming a total subversion of the civil authority, and of the church gov- ernment, that the affairs of the colony might devolve on themselves. Their letters were filled with base invective, and false accusations against both church and state in the new colo- ny. The governor deemed it proper to take copies of these letters; but of some of the most palpably obnoxious, he re- tained the originals, and replaced them with copies. The breaking the seals of private letters may always be justified, when for the purpose of detecting a treasonable correspond- ence, which may affect the ruin of a community. Amongst the Lyford letters was one to John Pemberton, a minister well known to be inimical to the colony, and in this letter were en- closed copies of a letter from a gentleman in England to Mr. 1624] HISTORY 0# PLYMOUTH. 63 Brewster, and of another from Mr. Winslovv to Rev. Mr. Robinson. These two copies were taken from the original sealed letters by Lyford, when on board the ship while laying at Gravesend bound to America. Governor Bradford remained silent respecting the informa- tion which he had obtained, but kept a strict watch over the conduct of the culprits, that their adherents and their designs mioht be more clearly discovered. Oldham soon became obstreperous, refusing to comply with his military duty, when, according to rule, called on to watch. He even insulted the captain and attacked him with a knife, and ranted furiously against all who attempted to quiet him. He was imprisoned, and a slight punishment being inflicted, he made confession and was released. Soon after this, Lyford, with his accompli- ces, proceeded to extremity, in defiance of the ruling authority, and without consulting the governor, church, or elder, set up a public meeting apart on the Lord's day, and attempted to ad- minister the sacrament. In this crisis of affairs, the governor summoned a court of the whole company, and preferred his charges against Lyford and Oldham. With audacious face they denied the charges, and required proof On this extraor- dinary occasion, governor Bradford expatiated on the princi- pal objects and views of their migration here, the toils and sufferings to which they had been subjected, that they might enjoy the ordinances of God in freedom and quietness. In adverting to the case of Lyford, he reminded him that he had not participated in those sufferings, nor in the expense, but was sent over, and, with his large family, received kindly and supported at much expense; and now to plot against them and seek their ruin, was most unjust and perfidious. Lyford still denied the charge, and pretended not to understand the language addressed to him. The governor could no longer withhold the overwhelming truth. The letters from his own hand were now produced, and where is the man with sufficient effrontery not to be utterly confounded? Oldham began to be furious, and to rage bitterly that their letters had been inter- cepted. He endeavored to excite a mutiny among the people, exhorting them to show their courage, that now was the time to side with him in open rebellion, and he would stand by them. But he gained not a man; all were confounded and even the seditiously disposed were quelled through fear. The governor now proceeded to reprove Lyford for his base hypocrisy and treachery; in abusing his friends, in breaking the seals of pri- vate letters and taking copies; and at this time he caused Lyford 's letters to be read to the whole company. He was 64 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, [1224 next reminded of his confession when admitted to church- fellowship, and his saying at that time that he did not hold himself a minister till he could have a new calling for that pur- pose, and yet, now he had drawn a party aside, and, without acquainting the governor or the church, was about to adminis- ter the sacrament, by virtue of his former calling. He only replied, that many persons had complained to him of abuses, but the persons he named denied his assertions. At length the miscreant, with eyes streaming with tears, confessed ' that he feared he was a reprobate, and that his sins were so great that God would not pardon them; he was "unsavory salt," and that he had so wronged them that he could never make them amends;' confessing ' all he had written against them was false and naught, both for motive and manner.' Both of these men were convicted, and the court sentenced them to be expelled from the plantation. Oldham waste depart immediately, though his wife and family had liberty to tarry all winter, or till he could remove them comfortably. Lyford had liberty to tarry six months, and the governor intended to remit his punishment, if his repentance proved sincere. He acknowl- edged that his sentence was just, far less than he deserved, and afterwards confessed his sin before the church with tears in abundance. He acknowledged that he had slanderously abused the people, expecting that a majority would side with him, and that he should gain his point; and he now blessed God that his designs were frustrated. He confessed himself to be actuated by pride, vain glory and self-love; that his eyes and his ears were shut against all good; and that if God should make him a vagabond on the earth, as was Cain, it would be just. Such v/as the apparent sincerity of these professions of sorrow and repentance, that many ' tender hearted persons' had pity and compassion on him, and he was again permitted to teach, and some were willing to fall on their knees to have his sentence remitted. Can it be credited, that in less than three months after his conviction, and before the term of his probation had expired, notwithstanding all his tearful confessions before God and the church, he should be found guilty of a new offence? He actually wrote another slanderous letter to his abettors in England, but the person to whom it was entrusted delivered it to the governor. John Oldham departed from Plymouth to Nantasket, and Lyford accepted of an invitation to be the minister of Cape Ann. At the annual election in March, 1625, Oldham returned to Plymouth, in violation of his sentence the last year, which prohibited his return without the consent of 1624] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 65 the Governor. He behaved again in such a factious and abu- sive manner, that his own associates were ashamed to be seen in his company, and it became necessary to confine him, till some punishment could be prepared for him. He was made to run the gauntlet through a double file of armed men, and each man was ordered to give him a blow as he passed, with the butt end of his musket, saying at the same time, ' go and mend your manners; ' he was then conducted to his boat, which lay at the water's side for his departure. Oldham afterwards applied himself to trade at Nantasket, with commendable industry and good success. He undertook a voyage to Virginia, and, while in imminent danger of ship- wreck, his mind was deeply impressed with a sense of his evil course of life, and he made many confessions and promises of amendment, if God should spare his life, and these vows he verified by a more correct course, insomuch, that the people of Plymouth permitted him to come into the place, whenever it might be convenient. Some time after, while on a trading voyage at Block Island, having some contention with the In- dians, he fell a sacrifice to their barbarity. As to Lyford, Mr. Winslow, while in England, made such disclosures of his con- duct when in Ireland, as could not fail to confound his best friends and adherents; and among the adventurers he was finally condemned, as unfit for the ministry. After -suffering many disappointments and troubles, he went to Nantasket, then to Salem, and afterwards to Virginia, where he sickened and died. The afl^air of Lyford and Oldham is narrated by Secre- tary Morton, in language of great severity if not prejudice, and some suggestions of caution in its perusal are found in other authors. Captain Smith's statistical account of Plymouth, at this period is thus condensed in Prince's Chronology. 'At New Plymouth, there are now about laO persons, some cattle and goats, but many swine and poultry; thirty-two dwelling houses; the town is impaled about half a mile in compass. On a high mount in the town they have a fort well built of wood, lime and stone, and a fair watch-house; the place it seems is healthful, for in the three last years, notwithstanding their great want of most necessaries, hath not one died of the first planters: and this year they have freighted a ship of 1 80 tons. The general stock already employed by the adventurers to Plymouth, is about seven hundred pounds.' In the same ship which brought Mr. Lyford to Plymouth, came a carpenter and a salt maker, both sent by the adven- turers. ' The carpenter,' says governor Bradford, * is an honest 6* 66 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1625 and very industrious man, quickly builds us two very good and Strong shallops, with a great and strong lighter, and had hewn timber for two ketches; but this was spoilt; for in the heat of the season of the year, he falls into a fever and dies, to our grief, loss and sorrow.' The salt maker he describes as one ignorant, foolish, and self-willed, and who produced nothing. On the 5th of August, Mr. Thomas Prince, who was afterwards governor, was married to Miss Patience Brewster, being the ninth marriage which had been solemnized in the colony. 1625. — Great dissensions having prevailed among the mer- chant adventurers in London, and being under considerable pe- cuniary embarrassments, the company this year, 1625, dissolved, and the major part of its members relinquished all interest in the affairs of the company, and left the colonists to provide for themselves. The colonists were, this year, so successful in their crops of Indian corn, that they were overstocked, and, wishing to convert pait of it to some profit in trade, and having no other vessels than two shallops, they laid a deck on one of them, and sent her, laden with corn, to Kennebeck. Although the shallop was provided with a deck amid-ship to keep the corn dry, yet the men were exposed to the weather without shelter. Having no seamen for the service, Mr. Winslow and some of the ' old standards,' performed this yoyage, in a tem- pestuous season, on the approach of winter. They disposed of the corn to advantage, and returned with seven hundred pounds of beaver, besides other furs, and at the same time opened a profitable trade for future occasions. The merchant adventurers at London sent two ships on a trading voyage to New-England; on their return they were laden with dry fish and furs; the smaller ship was towed by the larger till they reached the English channel, when, being cast off, she was captured by a Turkish man of war and carried into Sallee, where the master and his men were made slaves. In the larger ship, Capt. Miles Standish went over as agent in be- half of the plantation, in reference to some affairs depending between them and the adventurers. He providentially escaped the fate of those in the other vessel. 1626. — In April of this year, Capt. Miles Standish returned from England. Pie was the bearer of tidings which occasion- ed universal grief and sorrow. It was the death of the Rev. John Robinson, the beloved pastor of the Leyden and Ply- mouth church. Mr. Robinson died at Leyden, March 1st, 1625, in the fiftieth year of his age. A greater loss could not have been sustained in their circumstances. A particular de- tail of the character of this great and good man will be found under the head of Ecclesiastical History, in this volume. After 1626] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 67 his death his son, Isaac, with his mother, came over to Amer- ica, and settled at Barnstable. Mr. Prince observes, he was a *' venerable man whom I have often seen." He lived to the age of ninety and left male posterity in the county of Barnsta- ble. The Rev. John Robinson who was many years after min- ister of Duxbury, was bor^ in Dorchester from another family, and graduated at Harvard college in 1695. Another instance of death very afflictive to the colonists, was announced by captain Standish. It was Mr. Robert Cushman, one of their most valued friends. Mr. Cushman had resided in England since his return from Plymouth in 1621. He was a man of estimable character, and rendered essential service to the col- onists. When at Plymouth in 1621, although a layman, he preached a sermon ' on the sin and danger of self-love.' This was the first sermon ever preached in New England : accord- ing to tradition, the spot where it was delivered was the com- mon house of the plantation, on the southerly side of Leyden street. It was printed in London in 1622, and afterwards re- printed in Boston, in 1724. Another edition was published at Plymouth in 1785, with an appendix, giving some account of the author. In 1822, this celebrated sermon was again pub- lished at Stockbridge, with the appendix. In governor Bradford's letter-book, a fragment of which is preserved, is a letter from four of the adventurers written eighteenth December, 1624, said by Governor Bradford to be in Mr. Cushman's hand-writing. It gives much insight into their affairs, especially relative to their connexion with the ad- venturers, and evidences the good sense and excellent spirit of the writer. He wrote about the same time to Governor Bradford. In the same letter-book, is a copy of Governor Bradford's reply, dated June 9th, 1625, probably sent by Capt. Standish. In his letters to Governor Bradford, Mr. Cushman expresses a hope of coming to them in one of the next ships. His son Thomas, at that time a youth, whom he brought with him in the Fortune, in 1621, was then in the family of governor Bradford. ' I must entreat you,' says he in his last letter, * to have a care of my son as your own, and I shall rest bound unto you.' The request, we can have no doubt, was sacredly re- garded. This son became a useful member of the society in which he was nurtured from childhood. He was chosen ruling elder of the church in 1649, after the death of Elder Brewster, He married Mary, a daughter of Mr. Allerton, and died 1691, aged eighty-four. A tombstone was erected to his memory in 1715, by the church and congregation at Plymouth. He left several children. One of them, Isaac, was the first minister of Plympton. His widow survived till 1699. She is the person 68 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1G27 mentioned by Hutchinson, vol. ii. p, 408, as the only one of the first comers surviving in 1698. Descendants from this respectable stock are numerous, especially in Plympton, Dux- bury and Middleborough.' — Memorial. In the will of Elder Thomas Cushman, dated October 22d, 1690, he mentions his sons Thomas, Isaac, Elkanah and^EIeazer. Also his wife Mary, and his daughters Sarah Hook, and Lydia Harlow. — His sons Thomas, Isaac and Elkanah, settled in Plympton and died there, and probably Eleazer also. 1627. — For greater convenience of trade, the Plymouth colonists this summer built a small pinnace at Manomet, a place twenty miles to the south of Plymouth, (Buzzard's Bay,) to which place they transported their goods. Having taken them up a creek within four or five miles, they carried them over land to the vessel, and thus avoided the dangerous navigation around Cape Cod, and made their voyage to the southward in far less time, and with much less hazard. For the safet} of their vessel and goods, they also built a house, and kept some servants there, who planted corn, raised hogs, and were always ready to go out with the bark, and this became an establishment of some importance. In the time of the late war with Great Britain, the editor of the Memorial says, he had an opportunity to witness at Sandwich a revival of this mode of conveyance, to which the inhabitants of Cape Cod found it convenient to resort for the purpose of avoiding the risk of capture by the enemy's cruisers on the coast. At this period the colonists received numerous letters from their affectionate friends and brethren at Leyden. They were sorrowing under the irreparable loss of their beloved pastor, and pining with little hope for a re-union with their christian brethren at Plymouth. They were poor and dejected, and the society was hastening to a dissolution. The event of a re- union was equally desirable on the part of their friends at Ply- mouth. Governor Bradford and his associates were determined to make every possible effort to effect the object; no pecuniary sacrifices were deemed too great. Mr. Alierton had been sent several times, as agent to London, to negotiate a settlement of all pecuniary concerns with the company of adventurers, and to solicit assistance in behalf of the Leyden church. He re- turned in the spring of this year, after a successful execution of his commission, and was so fortunate as to purchase all the inter- est of the company of adventurers for the planters at Plymouth. This year it was deemed expedient to distribute portions of land to each person, allotting to each twenty acres of arable land, five acres in breadth by the water side and four acres in length, in addition to the acre of homestead and garden plot, 1627] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 69 formerly allotted. There was also a division of the cattle and goats. In the edition of the Memorial, by Judge Davis, page 389, will be found a particular allotment of cows and goats to individual families, and by that list the state of several families may be determined. The division of cows and goats took place soon after the connexion of the Plymouth settlers with the company of merchant adventurers in England was dissolved. — In 1624, Mr. James Shirley, merchant of London, and one of the adventurers, a warm friend to the pilgrims, gave a heifer to the plantation to begin a stock for the poor. In 1638, the townsmen of New Plymouth met at the governor's, all the in- habitants from Jones's river to Eel river, respecting the disposi- tion of the stock of cows given by Mr. Shirley. The amount of the stock was very considerable, and a respectable commit- tee was appointed to dispose of the same. In one of his let- ters, this benevolent gentleman says, ' If you put off any bull calves, or when they grow to bigger stature, I pray let that money's worth purchase hose and shoes for the poor of Ply- mouth, or such necessaries as they may want; and this I pray make known to all.' 'AH this gentleman's letters,' observes the editor of the Memorial, 'exhibit the most estimable disposi- tion. When Plymouth shall distinguish its streets and public places with the name of ancient worthies, that of Shirley should not be forgotten.' In March of this year, messengers arrived at Plymouth from the governor of the Dutch plantation at Hudson's river, with letters dated atManhattas, Fort Amsterdam, March 9th, 1627, and written in Dutch and French. In these letters, the Dutch congratulated the English on their prosperous and commend- able enterprise, tendered their good will and friendly services, and offered to open and maintain with them a commercial in- tercourse. The governor and council of Plymouth sent an obliging answer to the Dutch, expressing a thankful sense of the kindness which they had received in their native country, and a grateful acceptance of the offered friendship. The let- • ters were signed by Isaac De Razier, Secretary. In September, of the same year, the Plymouth planters re- ceived a visit from De Razier. Having arrived at the Ply- mouth trading-house at Manomet, according to his request, governor Bradford sent a boat for him, and he arrived alt Ply- mouth, in the Dutch style, with a noise of trumpeters. Pie was a chief merchant, and second to the governor. The people of Plymouth entertained him and his company several days, and some of them accompanied him on his return to Manomet, and purchased of him some commodities, especially 70 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1628 wampum peach or wampum. The Plymouth settlers were un- acquainted with wampum, as an article of commerce, but, from the information received from the Dutch, they were in- duced to purchase the article of the Indians, to the value of d£50, for traffic; it was unsaleable the two first years; but after- wards became a very important article of trade, especially with the inland Indians, who did not make it. ' Wompompague,' "says Mr. Gookin, ^is made, artificially, of a part of the wiWs shell; the black is double the value of the white. It is made principally by the Narraganset and Long Island Indians. Upon the sandy flats and shores of those coasts, the wilk shells are found.' In Roger Williams's key, wampum is considered as the Indian money, and is described in the 24th chapter of that interesting tract. ' One fathom of this, their stringed money, is worth five shillings. Their white money they call wampum^ which signifies iy^i/c ; their black, siurtie Thousand Pounds Sterling shall be paid to such person or per- sons as his Highnesse shall nominate to the end the Losses of the Merchants, Masters and interessed may be satisfied. 1655] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 101 Now We the said Lord Protector of the Common- wealth of England^, Scotland, and Ireland, and alsoe We the said Lords the States Generall of the United Provinces ratify- ing and confirming the said Article and all the matters and things therein Contained, and being respectively willing, cove- nanting and greeing that the same and every parte and clause thereof be duely and firmely held and observed bona fide, ac- cording to the nature and qualitie of contracts of [Princes] and Suvreaine States, without any manner of evasion or avoyd- ance for want of any Solemnities. And renouncing on both sides all subtilties and niceties of Law, to the end the prem- ises may have and take full effect according to the true mean- ing of the said article We the said Lord Protector for our parte, and We the said Lords the States Generall afore- 'said for our parte have by one unanimous Consent nominated and appointed, and doe by these presents nominate and appoint Edward Winslow, James Russell, John Beex, William Vander Cruyssen to be Arbitrators Commissioners full and absolute Judges to receive, heare, examine, and by all due wayes and meanes to determine and give judgment upon all and singular the complaints and demannds of all and every the Merchants, Masters, Owners, and interessed in all or any Shipps, Vessells, Tackle, Apparell, furniture, provisions, wares, goods and other things whatsoever at any time arrested or detained within any of the Territories or Dominions of the King of Denmarke since the Eighteenth Day of May One Thousand Six Hun- dred ffifty and Two, whereof mention is made in the Bills of the Merchants exhibited in March 1651 and pertaineing con- signed or belonging to any of the People of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland, or any of the Dominions thereto belonging, and We the said Lord Protector and alsoe We the said Lords the States Generall of the United Provinces doe joyntly and unanimously commit and by these presents give unto the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, John Beex, and William Vander Cruyssen full power and au- thoritie to convene and assemble together upon the Twentie seaventh day of June next ensuing old stile in the cittie of London in or at the Hall or Place in the said cittie called Goldsmith's Hall who being there assembled shall sweare and take a solemne oath before the Judges of the High Court of Admiraltie of England who are by the said Lord Protector au- thorised by these presents to administer the said oaths and re- quired and enjoy ned duely to attend at the said Goldsmith's Hall upon the said Twentie Seaventh day of June for the min- istration of the sUid oaths accordingly. That they and everie 9 * 102 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1655 of them shall in their examining hearing and determining of the said premisses and matters by these presents to them com- mitted renounced and sett aside all partialitie favor and affec- tion in relation to either or any of the said States, or any par- ticular interests, and proceede impartially to the searching out of the truth and summary determining and assessing of the rights interests and just dammages in all and everie the de- mannds aforesaid, and being sworne the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, John Beex, and William Vander Cruyssen shall forthwith enter upon and take cognisance of all such Com- plaints and Demannds as shall be on the behalf of any of the People of the said Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland &c. produced or offered touching any Shipps or Ves- sells whatsoever and all manner of Merchandize Consigne- ments Goods or any other things seised, [imbarged] or de- tained as aforesaid. And also all and singular shall be produced on the other parte by way of defence, diminution or payment of the said demands. And shall either by Oath, or without Oath or by Instruments documents or any other Evi- dence whatsoever such as they shall find requisite and condu- cible to this purpose examine the truth of all and everie the said Complaints and Demannds, and the true and just value of all and singular such Shipps and Vessells, Tackle furniture freight Provisions Merchandize goods or other things and all and everie the Dammages sustained by the said seisures and Detentions by losse of the said Shipps Vessells and freight thereof, and alsoe by the losse and damages of the said goods, Wares, Merchandize or otherwise respectively — And the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, John Beex and William Vander Cruyssen are hereby impowered enabled and authorized to ascertaine the said Premisses and everie of them and to liquidate assesse and tax the dammages for all and sin- gular the said premisses, and to arbitrate and adjudge the same according as they shall hold just and meete and to pronounce and publish in writing under their Hands and Scales their finall judgment which said judgment pronounced and published shall be binding and obligatory to both parties without any further review appeale or reclamation of any partie whatsoever — And The said Lords the States Generall by these presents binde and oblige themselves effectually and [really] to per- forme the same, and to pay such summe of moneyes as shall be soe adjudged and arbitrated to be paid for the said damma- ges and premisses within Twentie ffive days next immediately following after the publishing, of the said final judgment and arbitration and the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, John 1655] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 103 Beex and William Vander Cruyssen are hereby authorised and required to convene and assemble at the said Goldsmith's Hall and procede upon the said [premisses de die] in diem without intermitting any day after their first meeting upon the Twentie Seaventh day of June (the Lord's dayes commonly called Sun- dayes only excepted) and to the end the said Edward Wins- low, James Russell, John Beex and William Vander Cruys- sen may not long procrastinate the said matters to them com- mitted or breake off abruptly without coming to any certaine and final Judgment upon the said premisses It is accorded AND concluded as well on the parte of the Lord Protector as the Lords the States Generall of the United Provinces, That if the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, John Beex and William Vander Cruyssen shall not agree and publish their finall judgment upon the premisses before the ffirst day of Au- gust they shall be shutt upp in the said Goldsmith's Hall in a roome by themselves without fire, candle, meat drinke or other refreshment, untill they shall agree and publish in writing un- der their Hands and Scales their finall judgment and determi- nation of and upon the premisses which said finall Judgment and determination soe to be made after their such shutting upp shall neverthelesse be as firm [valide] and binding as if it had been made before their such shutting upp as aforesaid to all intents [constructions] and purposes — In Witness of all and singular which are for the surer per- formance of the premisses, without any manner of and cavillation the said Lord Protector and the said Lords the States Generall have agreed that Two partes of this In- strument word for word shall be made after the manner of an Indenture And that the said Lord Protector for the thereof for his parte shall %ause theGreate Scale of England to be affixed unto the one parte thereof and the said Lords the States Generall of the United Provinces shall cause their Greate Scale to be affixed to the other; And accordingly Wee the said Lord Protector have signed the said one parte of this In- strument with our owne Hand, and have caused the Greate Scale of England to be affixed thereto, at Westminster, the nineteenth day of April in the yeare of our Lord one Thousand six Hundred ffifty and ffoure. OLIVER P. 104 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1656 1656. — This year, it was ordered that card playing should be punished by a fine of fifty shillings. Servants or children, play- ing at cards, dice, or other unlawful games, for the first offence to be corrected, by their parents or master, and for the second, to be publicly whipped. A law was passed by which a magis- trate, at his discretion, was authorized to inflict corporal punish- ment on all who denied the scriptures to be a rule of life. Vil- ifying any church or ordinance, was punished by a fine of ten shiUings; profaning the Lord's day, by a fine of ten shillings, or a public whipping; and neglecting to attend public worship on each Lord's day, by a fine of ten shillings. We have now to notice the lamented death of that hero of the Pilgrims, Capt. Miles Standish. He died at his residence in Duxbury, this year, at a very advanced age. Captran Standish was one of the companions of Carver, Bradford and Winslow, in the Mayflower, and shared in all the perils and privations to which they were subjected. He was one of the first settlers of Duxbury, but resided occasionally at Plymouth, especially in the winter months, and was the principal officer of the garrison ,^at that place. In 1645, when war-like movements were com- menced against the Narragansets, Standish commanded the Plymouth troops. In 1653, when hostilities with the Dutch at Manhattan were apprehended, a council of war was appointed in Plymouth colony, of which Standish was one. Warrants were issued for the impressment of 60 men, and Standish was appointed to command them. It thus appears that he continued active in military employments, on every necessary occasion, until within three years of his death. He was frequently one of the board of assistants. After the loss of his wife in 1 620 — 1 , he soon married again. In the assignment of lands in 1623, the name of Mrs. Standish is on the iist; we know not the pre- vious name of the lady, but it appears she came in the ship Ann. In 1627, when the cattle were divided, he stands at the head of the third lot, with his wife * Barbara.' Charles, Alexander, and John, his children, are associated wifh him in that assign- ment. Alexander married Sarah Alden, daughter of John Al- den. Dr. Belknap informs us that Dr. Wheelock, President of Dartmouth College, and the father of Dr. Kirkland, President , of Harvard College, are descended from him. In the cabinet of the Pilgrim Society is the identical sword blade * used by Capt. Standish, the hilt being of more modern date, and also his iron pot, and pewter dish. * This relic is substantiated by unquestionable authority. 1656] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 105 The Rev. T. Alden, Jr. in his collection of Epitaphs, gives an amusing traditionary anecdote relative to the connubial pur- suits of Capt. Standish, and his friend John Alden. This anec- dote will be found entire under the name of John Alden, further on. In 1625, Captain Standish was sent an agent for the com- pany to England. The plague was then raging in London, and he met with difficulty in accomplishing his business ; but, the next year, he returned with goods for the colony, and brought the melancholy news, that Rev. Mr. John Robinson and Mr. Cushman were numbered with the dead. Capt. Standish was constantly elected one of the principal officers of the growing Commonwealth, and was one of the magistrates of the colony. When, in 1652, a council of war was appointed, vested with full power ' to issue warrants to press men and give commis- sions to chief officers,' the venerable Standish was one of the number. In 1654, Cromwell called on New-England for troops to subdue the Dutch of New-York, and Capt. Standish receiv- ed the command of those raised in Plymouth colony. A part of his commission was in these words. ' We having raised some forces, over which we do constitute our well beloved friend, Capt. Miles Standish, their leader and commander in chief ; whose fidelity and ability we have long experienced.' He was a brave and enterprising man, whose perseverance was equal to the performance of the boldest resolutions, which the mind can frame. It will appear, by the preceding pages, that on several occasions he was, through his great intrepidity, the deliverer of the people from the death, which the Indians threatened and were ready to execute. To the best interest of the colony he continued firm and steadfast to the last, and always managed his trust with great integrity and faithfulness. It is supposed, that he was buried at Duxbury, but the place of his grave is un- known. His house was consumed by fire sometime after his death, the exact time of which is uncertain. There are, in Plympton numerous descendants of Miles Standish. In his will, dated March 7th, 1655, he calls his son Alexander his eldest son, and names his sons in the following order, Alexander, Miles, Josiah, Charles. He mentions his wife Barbara, and his daugh- ter Lora. He gives his son Alexander his right to lands in England. It is possible that his sons Charles and John, men- tioned in Judge Davis's edition of the memorial, might have died young, as they are not mentioned in the will. Dr. Belknap gives us many respectable names of the honor- able house from which Miles Standish descended, beginning with Henry Standish, D. D., Bishop of St. Asaph, in the reign of Henry VIII. In the account of Duxbury, (Historical Col- 106 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1657 lections, vol. ii.) the name of the town is supposed to have been assumed by its first settlers, in allusion to their captain or leader. This appears questionable. The compliment would have been merited, but it is doubtful whether, among such a people, it would have been proposed or admitted. In * Jincient Vestiges,^ the manuscript in the note, p. 226 {Memorial) there is this re- mark; ' So late as 1707, I find that Sir Thomas Standish lived at Duxbury, the name of the family seat in Lancashire.' Captain Standish, it is said, was of small stature, but of a fiery temper, and perhaps no man ever possessed a more daring and intrepid spirit. The hill so conspicuous in the southeast part of the town of Duxbury, is called Captain's Hill or Mount, as it makes a part of the farm which was Captain Standish 's. 1657.— On the 9th of March, William Bradford, governor of the colony, was called to join the congregation of the dead, in the sixty-ninth year of his age. This bereavement was pecu- liarly afflictive to the pilgrims, for he was one who shared large- ly in their perils, griefs, and toils, and was revered as the prop and glory of the colony. He was born in England, in 1588. Both his parents dying while he was in early youth, he was left to the protection of his grand-parents, and, after them, his uncles. His patrimony was large, but his station in life was amongst the yeo- manry, and he was bred to agriculture. The early loss of his pa- rents probably gave a serious cast to his mind, and he devoted all his leisure time to the reading of the scriptures; and, notwith- standing the opposition and angry remonstrances of all his rela- tions, this experienced youth embraced the doctrines, which were taught by the venerable Chfton, and afterwards by Robinson and became one of their most devoted followers. He was a zeal- ous advocate for the removal of the company to America, and was a passenger in the Mayflower. On their arrival at Cape Cod harbor, his wife unfortunately fell overboard, and was drowned in his absence. On the death of governor Carver, although only thirty-two years old, and confined at the time by sickness, he was unanimously elected his successor, as governor of the colony. He conducted the affairs of the colony, for the great part of the time, as chief, and two or three years as second magistrate, with consummate prudence and ability, for a period of more than thirty-one years. ' In the transactions with the Indians, he was strictly just; and after those unavoidable spark- lings, which the neighborhood of two races of men, like the col- lision of flint and steel, are sure to strike out at first, the ani- mosities, which vicinage engendered, were allayed, and he pre- served the relations of peace unbroken. His mingled system of mildness and energy conciliated their affections, and extorted 1657] HISTORY ©F PLYMOUTH. 107 their respect. When necessary, he alarmed their fears. When the emblematic defiance of the Sachem of the Narragansetts was conveyed in the shape of a bundle of arrows, bound to- gether by the skin of a serpent, he answered it promptly, by sending back the skin filled with powder and bullets.' — (See page 45 of this vol.) He soon understood all the peculiarities of their simple characters. His sagacity in detecting, and his energy in overcoming the designs of the factionists, were on every occasion most happily displayed. He was, at an early period, aware of the danger of supplying the Indians with fire- arms, and warned his countrymen against putting such formi- dable instruments into their hands. "The natives, " he observed, " were all provided with muskets, powder and shot, and were so well skilled in their use as even to keep the English in awe, and give the law to them when they pleased. They have flints, screw plates and moulds for shot, and can mend and new stock their pieces almost as well as Englishmen. Thus like madmen, we put them in the way to kill us with our own weapons. They know their advantage so well, they scruple not to say that they can, when they please, drive the English away, or kill them." It is to be observed, that the natives were supplied with arms and amniunition chiefly by the people of Massachusetts colony. Although governor Bradford's early pursuits were un- favorable to the cultivation of learning, yet he applied himself with great diligence to the study of the ancient languages, both Greek and Latin. Of the Hebrew his knowledge was intimate, and the French and Dutch he spoke with ease. He read much on subjects of history and philosophy. In theology he was deeply versed, and few there were, who could contend with him successfully in a polemical dispute. He wrote considera- ably ; the loss of his valuable manuscript history of the colony to 1646 can never be supplied. As chief magistrate, he was compefled to deal with many turbulent spirits, yet he seldom fail- ed to enforce respect both to the laws and the magistrates, rather by appealing to the sense of shame and fear of self-degradation, than by the exercise of the penal authority of the government. His faith endured to the last, and he died full of hope ; conversing with his friends on the day of his death, he spoke with the cheer- fulness of a saint. ^' God," said he, " has given me a pledge of my happiness in another world, and the first fruits of eternal glory. " ' Governor Bradford, ' says Dr. Cotton Mather, ' died lamented by all the colonists of New England, as a common fath- er of them all.' On the 14th August, 1624, governor Bradford was married to Mrs. AHce Southworth, a lady of extraordinary capacity and worth. There was an early attachment, it is said, 108 HISTORY OF PfcYMOUTH. [1657 between governor Bradford and Mrs, Southworth, and their mar- riage was prevented by her parents on account of the inferior circumstances or rank of Mr. Bradford. Being now a widow- er, he by letters to England made overtures of marriage to Mrs. Southworth, who was then a widow. The proposal was accepted, and with a generous resolution she embarked in the ship Ann, in 1623, to meet her intended partner, who, she well knew, could not leave his responsible station in the infant set- tlement. Her two sons, Thomas and Constant Southworth, came over with her. This lady was well educated and brought considerable property into the country. She died in 1670, aged 80 years, and was honorably interred on the 29th March, at New Plymouth. It is said in the old colony records, ' She was a godly matron, and much loved while she lived, and lamented, though aged, when she died.' Mrs. Bradford was highly eulo- gized by Elder Faunce, for her exertions in promoting the liter- ary improvement and the deportment of the rising generation, according to accounts he had received from some of her contem- poraries. Governor Bradford was without doubt interred on our burial hill, but the antiquarian, who visits the place, must be im- pressed with melancholy regret, that th'e remains of one so emi- nently meritorious as was this excellent man, should be suffered to moulder in the dust without a monumental stone to designate the spot. There is at each of the graves of the two sons, an or- dinary stone, but the grave of the illustrious sire is level with the earth, and known only by tradition. Even at this remote period, it would be honorable and a blessing to posterity, could a suitable monument be erected, that future inquiring antiquarians might know where to resort to lean over the remains and meditate on the virtues and glorious deeds, of one of the principal founders of our nation. Greatly should we rejoice to see the venerated name, which has, for two centuries, been veiled in temporary oblivion, brought forth to immortal memory by a grateful pos- terity. We have little doubt but this desirable object might be effected, were a subscription to be put in circulation for that purpose. The family bible of governor Bradford is still in ex- istence. It is in the possession of Mr. Asa Waters, of Stough- ton, who exhibited it in this town, in October, 1831. The bible was printed in the year 1592, and contains a written list of the names of the family of Elisha Bradford, who was the grand-son of Governor William Bradford. That this ancient and honor- able family may be traced in all its branches to the present gen- eration, the following genealogical detail is here recorded. Governor Bradford married, for his first wife, Dorothy May, by whom he had one son, whose name was John, but there is no 1657] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 109 account that he was ever married, or with certainty when he died. There is a tradition that he was lost at sea, on his passage to England. The maiden name of the governor's second wife, Mrs. Southworth, was Alice Carpenter, by whom he had three chil- dren, William, Mercy, and Joseph. Mercy married Benjamin Vermage, mentioned in the appendix to governor Winthrop's History, vol. ii. p. 372. WilHam Bradford, son of the govern- or, obtained high distinction in the colony, being elected an assistant soon after the decease of his father, and chief military commander. He had the title of major, and was an active offi- cer in Philip's war. He married for his first wife Alice Rich- ards, who died in 1671, aged 44, by whom he had four sons, John, William, Thomas, and Samuel. Thomas moved to Con- necticut, Samuel settled at Duxbury, from whom the Bradfords in that place descended. William Bradford's second wife was the widow Wiswell, by whom he had on-e son, Joseph, who moved to Connecticut. His third wife was Mrs. Mary Holmes, widow of the Rev. John Holmes, the second minister of Duxbury, by whom he had four sons, Israel, Ephraim, David, and Hezekiah. She died in 1704. When the colonial Government terminated in 1692, Major Bradford was deputy governor, and afterwards was chosen counsellor of Massachusetts. He died February 20th, 1703, aged 79 years. In his will dated Jan. 29th, 1703, he provides for nine sons and six daughters, by which it appears that he had fifteen children, a noble bequest to the new territory. The late aged Ebenezer Cobb,* of Kingston, remembered the funeral of deputy governor Bradford. The public road being obstructed by a deep snow, the corpse was brought from the family residence near Jones's river along the sea-shore, it being the express desire of the deceased to be buried near the body of his father. His tombstone indicates the spot where the gov- ernor was probably interred: the father lying on the east side of the son, while the other son Joseph, lies in another row northerly. John, the eldest son of the deputy governor, is fre- quently mentioned in the Plymouth records as selectman and on various committees; and in 1692, he was deputy, or repre- sentative from Plymouth to the general court. The governor's son Joseph, lived near Jones's river, had a son named Elisha, * Mr. Ebenezer Cobb was a native of Plymouth, but for many years a resident of Kingston, where he died December 8, 1801, aged 107 years, ei^ht months, and six days. He was remarkable for facetious- ness of disposition, and for a retentive memory. He well remem- bered that, when a boy, he had a personal knowledge of Peregrine White. 10 tllO HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. [1657 "vvho had several children. He died July lOth, 1715, in the eighty-fifth year of his age, and was buried at the Burial-hill at Plymouth. Major John Bradford, son of Major William, mar- ried Mercy Warren, daughter of Joseph Warren. Their chil- dren were John, Alice, Abigail, Mercy, Samuel, Priscilla, and Wilham. He died December 8th, 1736, in the eighty-fourth ,year of his age. Mercy, his widow, died 1747, in her ninety- fourth year. Lieut. Samuel Bradford, son of the aforesaid Major John Bradford, married Sarah Gray, daughter of Edward Gray, of Tiverton, Rhode Island, and grand-daughter of Edward Gray of Plymouth. Their issue were John, Gideon, William, who died young, Mary, Sarah, William, Mercy, who died young, Abigail, Phebe, and Samuel. The aforesaid Lieut. Samuel Bradford, lived and died in Plympton, 1740, aged fifty-six years. His widow married William Hunt, of Martha's Vineyard, and died in 1770. The Hon. William Bradford, late of Bristol, Rhode Island, was a son of the above Samuel Bradford. He was born at Plympton, Nov. 4th, 1729, and died in July, 1808. He was deputy governor of Rhode Island, speaker of the house of representatives, and a member of congress. His residence was near the celebrated Mount Hope, and the story of King Philip, the aboriginal proprietor, was familar to his mind. His descendants are numerous. Gideon Bradford, son of the above Lieut. Samuel Bradford, married Jane Paddock, and had issue, Levi, Joseph, Sarah, Samuel, Gideon, Calvin, and Jenney. He died in Plympton, 1793, in his seventy-fifth year. Levi, son of the above Gideon, married Elizabeth Lewis. Their chil- dren were Lewis, Joseph, Levi, Daniel, Ezra, Elizabeth, and Sarah. He died in Homer, N. Y. 1812, aged seventy-nine years. Colonel Gamaliel Bradford descended from the first Samuel. He lived at Duxbury, and commanded a regiment of continen- tal troops during the revolutionary war. His son Gamaliel, entered the Americaii army when a youth, and was an officer at the close of the war. He possessed a patriotic spirit and a noble mind, and was distinguished in various pursuits in private life. Another son of Gamaliel is the present Alden Bradford, for several years secretary of our commonwealth, and the au- thor of a valuable history of Massachusetts, and the president of the Pilgrim Society. The first notice of horses on record is in 1644, when a mare, belonging to the estate of Stephen Hopkins, was appraised at ^6 sterling. In 1647, in the inventory of Thomas Bliss, a colt was appraised at X4 sterling. In Joseph Holliway's inventory, the same year, one mare and a year old colt were appraised at 1657] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. III? jE14. In June, 1657, the colony court passed an act that every free-holder who kept three mares, and would keep one horse for military service, should be freed from all military service, train- ing and watching. While destitute of horses it was not uncom- mon for people to ride on bulls; and there is a tradition, that when John Alden went to Cape Cod to be married to Priscilla Mullens, he covered his bull with a handsome piece of broad- cloth, and rode on his back. On his return, he seated his bride on the bull, and led the uncouth animal by a rope fixed in the nose ring. This sample of primitive gallantry would ill com- pare with that of Abraham's servant, when, by proxy, he gal- lanted Rebekah on her journey, with a splendid retinue of "-damsels and servants seated on camels, Isaac going out to meet her. (Gen. ch. 24.) Had the servant employed bulls, instead of camels, it may be doubted whether Rebekah would have been quite so prompt in accepting his proposals. As soon as the question was put, Rebekah said '* I will go." In 1665 the colony court made^ a present of a horse to King Philip. It would gratify curiosity to know in what manner King Philip, and the natives, in general, were affected by the first sight of horses and cows; their minds must have been overwhelmed with astonishment to see men riding on horses and bulls. Trouble with the Quakers. This year was rendered memor- able by an unhappy commotion and personal collision with a new sect of rehgionists, styled Quakers. This controversy would seem to have been engendered by a spirit of fanaticism, approaching to frenzy, on one part, and of pious zeal, allied to bigotry, on the other. Our puritan fathers, having experienced the bitterness of intolerance and persecution from tyrants, were willing that a measure of the same spirit should be construed into the rights of conscience, and become a duty when exer- cised by themselves. That confiding temper in the purity of their own sentiments, and religious ardor for the glory of God, could not brook the smallest deviation from the course, which they deemed strictly orthodox; and their jealous apprehensions of heresy led them, on some occasions, to acts inconsistent with their professed principles of Christian liberty and charity. But palliating circumstances in the case must not be overlooked. In their religious and local concerns, the puritans, about this period, were reduced to a deplorable condition. Not a few of their society had manifested a coolness and indifference to the stated preaching of the gospel by qualified clergymen, pre- ferring to exercise their own personal gifts. An alarming de- fect of reverence and support of ministers was spreading through other towns in the colony, and schisms in churches were not 112 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1657 unfrequent. No less than five distinguished ministers in the colony were obliged to separate from their societies for the want of support, and two othefs died, and all their places remained unsupplied about the same time. Three other parishes were also destitute. It was at this critical juncture that the vexatious intrusion of the quakers occurred, to their great annoyance. Not only were their tenets at first deemed exceedingly obnoxious, and even blasphemous, but the demeanor of some individuals of the sect was audacious and provoking beyond endurance. — ' When the quakers appeared in New England,' says Hon. Mr. Baylies, ^ it was during their first effervesence ; the materials were still fermenting, and had not as yet worked off* the scum and the dregs, which all new religious sects are sure to bring up.' It was ordered by the court, that in case any shall bring in any quaker, ranter, or other notorious heretic, either by land or water, into any part of this government, he shall forthwith, upon order of any one magistrate, return them to the place from whence they came, or clear the government of them, on the penalty of paying a fine of 20s, for every week that they shall stay in the government, after warning. A more severe law was afterwards passed. '■ It is therefore enacted by the court and authority thereof, that no quaker, or person commonly so called be entertained by any person or persons within this gov- ernment, under penalty of £6 for every such default or be whipt.' On the 6th of October, 1657, Humphrey Norton, claiming to be a prophet, was summoned to appear at the court, and on ex- amination found guilty (according to the court record) of divers horrid errors. He was sentenced speedily to depart the gov- • ernment, and the under-marshal was required to take him into custody, and to conduct him to Assonet, near Rhode Island. * The spirit of Norton was not subdued, and he returned again into the Plymouth jurisdiction, accompanied by one John Rouse. These quakers appeared at the court in June, 1658, and were apprehended and committed to prison. When they were ex- amined before the court, Norton said sundry times to the gover- nor, 'Prince, thou lyest; Thomas, thou art a malicious man.' The conduct of Rouse was equally turbulent. They were re- manded, but in a short time were again brought before the court. Norton again abused the governor with much foul language, saying, ' Thy clamorous tongue I regard no more than the dust under my feet; and thou art like a scolding woman, and thou pratest and deridest me,' &c. Norton and Rouse were severally required, that, as they pro- 1657] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 113 fessed themselves to be subjects to the state of England, they should take an oath of fidelity to be true to that state, which they refused to do, saying they would take no oath at all. On this refusal they were sentenced to a whipping. This punish- ment was inflicted, for which the under-marshal required a fee. They refused to pay, and were again committed to prison, where they remained until they compromised with the marshal, and left the jurisdiction.* Norton afterwards addressed the governor by letter in such language as, ' Thomas Prince, thou hast bent thy heart to work wickedness, and with thy tongue hast set forth deceit; thou imaginest mischief upon thy bed, and hatchest thy hatred in thy secret chamber; the strength of darkness is over thee, and a malicious mouth hast thou opened against God and his anointed, and with thy tongue and lips hast thou uttered perverse things ; thou hast slandered the innocent, by railing, lying, and false ac- cusations, and with thy barbarous heart hast thou caused their blood to be shed,' &c. &c. — ^ John Alden is to thee like unto a pack-horse, where upon thou layest thy beastly bag; cursed are all they that have a hand therein; the cry of vengeance will pursue thee day and night.' After continuing in this strain at great length he closes thus, * The anguish and pain that will enter thy veins will be like gnawing worms lodging betwixt thy heart and liver. When these things come upon thee, and thy back is bowed down with pain, in that day and hour, thou shalt know to thy grief that prophets of the Lord God we are, and the God of vengeance is our God." Norton addressed a letter to John Alden, one of the assistants and a member of the. court, couched in language equally abusive as the above. If the primitive government of Plymouth rendered itself cen- surable for the rigor of its laws, and the cruelty, of the punish- ments inflicted on the quakers, their posterity have the consol- ing reflection, that among the honorable society of quakers at the present day, no one can be found that would give counten- ance to such outrageous conduct as that of Norton and Rouse; so on the other hand, may we safely vouchy that none among the descendants of the puritan fathers will pretend to find a jus- tification of the harsh measures prosecuted against them. Most happy is the day, when these opposing sects are harmoniously united in christian charity, and brotherly love; the quakers distinguished for benevolence, purity of morals, and peaceful demeanor, their friends for erudition, liberality of sentiment, *In our times we should think public v/hipping to be a sufficient punishment, without obliging the culprit to pay the whipper's fee. 10* 114 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 1657] christian knowledge and philanthropy. But the reader has not yet learnt the whole history of the quaker controversy. Several other disfranchising laws were passed by the Ply- mouth general court against these people. On the 8th of May, 1659, five men and one woman were sentenced, according to a previous order of court, to banishment, to depart out of the jurisdiction by the 8th day of June, on pain of death; delaying, they were to be imprisoned, tried, and if found guilty of the breach of this law, were to be put to death. The following judicious observations are cited from Hon. F. Baylies, vol. ii. p. 38. 'The quakers who first appeared in the colony of Ply- mouth were not inhabitants, but came from abroad. Although they professed the principles of peace and benevolencCp yet they waged a furious war against a religion which was much endeared to the people whom they were endeavoring to pros- elyte; for which that people had suffered much, and were im- pressed with a strong conviction of its truth.' Their laws, their government, their forms of worship, all which they had been taught to venerate, and accustomed to love, were denounced in no very civil terms by strangers. Their magistrates and ministers were reviled in terms of inso- lent abuse; it is not surprising, therefore, that they should have attempted to check (what appeared to them to be) blasphemy and impiety. Although these new expounders of scripture styled themselves ' the prophets of God,' yet it was not an unnatural or strange belief, in that day, that they should have been re- garded as men ' possessed with demons.' ' To check their dis- orders, banishment was deemed the mildest punishment. Nor- ton was sent beyond the settlements, but on the next year he re- turned, in defiance of the government. It is not unlikely that the deportment of governor Prince to Norton was domineering and arrogant, for he detested schismatics, and hated those who despised and derided ' human learning.' Yet one far more in- dulgent than the governor, in the same station, must have been possessed of uncommon self-command, if he could have tolerated personal insults, and tamely have suffered himself to have been called a 'liar' and ' a malicious man,' while in the very exer- cise of his high authority on the judgment seat, and presiding in the court. Even in these times, under the system of tolera- tion, and with a mitigated penal code, ' contempt of court ' is deemed a high offence, and is punished accordingly. Still it is best that the hand of power should fall gently on all those who pretend (even if it be nothing but pretence,) to act under the impulse of religious feeling. The errors of honest and sincere zealots are to be excused, not punished, unless the order and 1657] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 115 peace of society are disturbed to such a degree, that the re- straint of the offender becomes an act of necessity.' During this high excitement in the colony, and the still greater in that of Massachusetts, Mr. Cudworth, Mr. Allerton, and some others, appeared in opposition to the measures- pursued against the quakers, in consequence of which they became so unpopu- lar that they were left out of their offices of magistrate.*' At length, the court were disposed to try the effect of a more con- ciliatory treatment. For the purpose of bringing the quakers to a sense of their mistakes, the laws were so far relaxed as to permit certain persons to attend their meetings, * to endeavor to reduce them from the error of their ways; ' this permission was given to Isaac Robinson, the son of the celebrated Leyden pastor, and three others. ' But,' says Mr. Baylies, ' the gov- ernment were not aware of their danger. The fanaticism of a new sect is always an overmatch for that which has been cooled and tempered by time.' Isaac Robinson, an excellent and sen- sible man, who had received the permission of the court to at- tend these meetings, instead of convincing the quakers of their errors, became self-convicted, and embraced many of their doc- trines, and consequently rendered himself so obnoxious, that he was dismissed from civil employment, and exposed to much cen- sure and some indignity. In 1660, the alarm not having entirely subsided, the court of Plymouth were induced to pass additional laws to stem the tor- rent of quakerism. All persons were now authorized to appre- hend such quakers, and to deliver them to the constables, that they might be carried before the governor or some magistrate. And to prevent their speedy passage from place to place, to * poison the inhabitants wuth their cursed tenets,' all persons were prohibited from supplying them with horses, on pain of forfeiture, and their own horses were also made liable to forfeit- ure. It was also enacted, that anyone who shall bring in any qua- ker or ranter, by land or water, into this government, viz., by being a guide to them or any otherwise, shall be fined, to the use of the government, the sum of £10 for every default. * If the quakers or such like vagabonds, shall come into any town of this government, the marshal or constable shall apprehend him * Captain Cudworth was tried for being- a manifest opposer of the law? of the government, and sentenced accordingly, to be disfran- chised of the freedom of the commonwealth, and deprived of his military command ; to which he submitted with dignified magnanim- ity. 116 * HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. * [1657 or them, and upon examination so appearing, he shall whip them, or cause them to be whipped with rods, so it exceed not fifteen stripes. It was also enacted that all persons permitting the quakers to hold meetings in their houses, on conviction before the general court, should be publicly whipped, or pay £5.' But I am exceeding my intended limits on this theme; and however interesting may be the sequel, I shall only add that ^ in a few years there appeared a revolution in the popular feeling, and Mr. Cudworth, Mr. Brown, and Isaac Robinson were restor- ed to favor,' under the administration of Governor Josiah Wins- low. The tragedy at Boston produced a deep sympathy for the suf- ferers, and when it was seen that the quakers could die for their faith, the people could not resist the belief that they were sin- cere.* '' The book of the General Laws and liberties of the inhabi- tants of the jurisdiction of New Plymouth, out of the records of the General Court, was lately revised and established and dis- posed into alphabetical order, and published by the authority of the General Court held at New Plymouth the 29th day of Sep- tember Anno Domini 1658." It was enacted 1658, that all op- posers of the laws of the colony, or who shall speak contemptu- ously of the laws, or of the true worship of God, or such as are judged by the court grossly scandalous, as liars, drunkards, &,c., shall lose the freedom of this corporation. It was, in the same year, enacted, 'that as in many towns the number of freemen was less than the number of inhabitants, * In July, 1656, Mary Fisher and Ann Austin, both of the denom- ination of quakers, arrived at Boston from Barbadoes, and about a month afterwards eight more came into that colony from Rhode Island. The first quakers who appeared in New England, arrived in July. The general court of Massachusetts considered them alike hostile to civil and to ecclesiastical order, and passed sentence of banishment on twelve persona of that sect, the whole number then in the colony. The most sanguinary laws were passed against the sect by the Mas- sachusetts general court, which may be found in Hutchinson, Hub- bard, and Hazard. In 1659, two men and one woman were tried before the general court of Massachusetts, and sentenced to die. The two men were executed, and the woman, Mary Dyer, was re- prieved, on condition of her departure from the jurisdiction in forty- eight hours : and if she returned, to suffer the sentence. She was carried, however, to the gallows ; and stood with a rope about her neck until the others were executed. This infatuated Avoman re- turned, and was executed in 1660. Many of these deluded people actually courted persecution. 1658, 60] HISTORY or Plymouth. 117 and as all had an equal right to vote, it may come to pass that very unfit and unworthy persons may be chosen that cannot an- swer the court's trust in such a place; that as all such as ma- gistrates and deputies, are to act in making of laws, and being assembled, the court in the first place take notice of their mem- bers, and if they find any unfit for such a trust, that they and the reason thereof be returned to the town from whence they were sent, that they make such choice of more fit and able persons to send in their stead as the time will permit.' This assumed right of expulsion of members would at the present day be deemed arbitrary, and meet the most decided opposition. The public officers were to be paid in corn for their services, and all corn delivered in to pay the current expenses of the country to bear one price. August 2lst, 1658. — Died William Paddy, aged 58 years. Mr. Paddy for several years was elected deputy to the gen- eral court of Plymouth, and was also a deacon of the church, and possessed considerable wealth. He sustained an irre- proachable character, was devoted to the best interests of the colony, and was useful in both church and state. He removed to Boston in 1651. He had two sons born in Plymouth, Thom- as and Samuel, but the name appears to be now extinct.* It was this year ordered that whosoever profaned the Lord's day by travelling, carrying burdens, &c. should be fined twenty shillings, or set in the stocks four hours. M. B. having been sentenced for telling a lie, the court hav- ing examined particulars, have cleared her, but desired Mr. Hatherly, from the court to admonish her to be wary of giving offence to others by unnecessary talking. J. W. to be sharply reproved for writing a note on common business on Lord's day. E. H. for telling a lie, and R. J. for neglecting public worship, fined ten shillings each. The court appointed Josiah Winslow and Constant South- worth, with the treasurer, to agree with workmen to erect a house of correction, to be added to the prison, fourteen feet in length, with a chimney to it. 1660. — The council of war ordered, that during any appear- * A singular incident occurred at Boston, in the summer of 1830. Some workmen employed in removing the earth from the north side of the Old State House, dug up a tombstone, considerably broken, on one side of which was the following inscription : ♦Here lyeth the body of Mr. William Paddy. Departed this life Angust 1658.' From the records it appears that he was one of the selectmen of Boston at the time of his death. 118 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1661,62 ance of danger, a military watch be kept in each town in the most convenient places for giving an alarm, and also to watch the sea coast and observe the motions of any ships that may appear. The firing of three muskets shall make an alarm in the night, and fires to be made where the alarm is given. The Dutch and French were to be considered as common enemies. The following instance of marriage may perhaps be ascribed to quaker influence. R. W. and M. C. for marrying disorderly, and without parent's consent, were sentenced to pay £10 fine, and be imprisoned during pleasure of court; and being desir- ous of being orderly married, v/ere accordingly, this 9th of March, 1660. E. M. for accompanying and countenancing the above mentioned persons, fined twenty shillings. R. B. summoned to appear to answer for speaking contemptuously of singing psalms, and was convicted of the fact, and promised that he would be warned of so doing for the future. The court sharply admonished him, and that he should acknowledge his fault, which he engaged to do, and was discharged. 1661. — ^At the court which assembled in June, a loyal declar- ation was made in favor of King Charles II. who had been restored to the throne of his ancestors. R. Smith for lying concerning seeing a whale and other things, fined twenty shillings, A. Bessey for her cruel and unnatural practice towards her father-in law, G. Barlow, in chopping of him in the back, fined twenty shillings, or to be whipped. D. B. and M.. B., for the like towards their father-in-law, not in so high degree, both sentenced to sit in the stocks during the pleasure of court, which was performed. The colony during this year sold, for £400 sterling, their lands on Kennebec river, to Antipas Boyes, Edward Tyng, Thomas Brattle, and John Winslow, and they originated the celebrated Plymouth company. £60 was assessed for purchasing a place for the minister at Plymouth. 1662. — S. H. for carrying a grist of corn from mill on Sun- day, fined 20 shillings, or to be whipped. W. F. for sufl^ering him^ to take it from the mill, fined 10 shillings. William Randall for telling a lie, fined 10 shillings. Clark's island was now abandoned, and not improved by any one. Town expenses, £25. 5s. Sd. Ten pounds was assessed to procure bellows and tools for a smith, for the use of the town. Philip, sachem of Pokanoket, made his appearance at the court of Plymouth, and solicited the continuance of the amity 1663] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 119 and friendship which had existed between the government of Plymouth and his father (Massasoit) and brother. To that end he desired, for himself and his successors, that they might for- ever, remain subject to the King of England, his heirs and suc- cessors; and promised that he and his would truly and exactly observe and keep inviolate such conditions as had formerly been made by his predecessors; and particularly that he would not, at any time, needlessly or unjustly provoke or raise war with any of the natives; nor give, sell, or dispose of any lands to stran- gers, or to any others without their privity or appointment; but would in all things endeavor to live peaceably and inoffensively towards the English. The court expressed their willingness to continue the friendship ; and promised to afford the Indians such friendly assistance by advice and otherwise, as they justly might, and to require their own people at all times to maintain a friendly conduct toward them. The original name of Philip was Matacomet. Mather says, ' it was at this time that he de- sired an English name, and that the court named him Philip.' Judge Davis says, * After the death of Massasoit, about the year 1656, his two sons, Wamsutta and Metacomet, came to the court at Plymouth, and professing great respect, requested that English names might be given them. Wamsutta, the eldest brother, was thereupon named Alexander; the youngest, Met- acomet was called Philip.' — JVote on Morton. The agreement in court was soon after the death of Alexander. — Holmes's ^n.* 1663. — Mr. John Brown, who had frequently been an assist- ant in the government, having been elected in 1636, and contin- ued by successive elections to 1656, died this year at his resi- dence in Rehoboth. He was also one of the commissioners of the United Colonies from 1644 to 1655. James Brown, who was chosen an assistant in 1665, and lived at Swansey, was his son. ' We find the same remark made respecting Mr. Brown as of Mr. Winslow and Captain Standish, that, while on their travels, they became casually acquainted with the refugees at Leyden, and were so attached to them, on acquaintance, as to unite themselves to their society. A connexion, thus formed and continued through so many difficulties, is alike honorable to all parties; we are led to infer, that there was something prepos- sessing in the deportment of the pilgrims, interesting and con- genial to generous minds.' * Some very interesting particulars respecting the subsequent conduct of these two Indians, and the orig^in of the memorable con- test, denominated Philip's war, may be found in Judge Davis's note in the Memorial; p. 287, and also in the appendix to this volume. 120 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1664, 65 Jan. 26. — ^There was a tremendous earthquake in the north- ern parts of America. It was felt throughout New England. — See Judge Davis's note on Morton, p. 289, 294. This year the ministerial house* was built in Plymouth, and £60 voted to finish it. Half the payment in tar and corn; the tar to be twelve pence in the barrel cheaper than at Boston; the other half in wheat, barley, peas, butter, or money. This parsonage house was erected on the north side of First street, (Leyden street) just below the present precinct house, but not on the same lot. The house, erected in 1832, by Mr. James Bartlett, Jr., and that on the west side of it, now occupy the place. The lot on which stands the present precinct mansion house, was given to the First Church of Christ in Plymouth, by Bridget Fuller and Samuel Fuller, the worthy v/idow and son of Dr. Samuel Fuller. 1664 .-In 1664, king Charles II. issued a commission empower- ing Col. Richard Nicolls, Sir Robert Carr, George Cartwright, and Samuel Maverick, Esquires, ' to hear and determine com- plaints and appeals in all cases, as well military as criminal and civil,' within New England, and to proceed in all things for set- tling the peace and security of the country. His majesty caused letters to be addressed to the government of New Plymouth, in which are many expressions of royal grace and favor, promising to preserve all their liberties and privileges, both ecclesiastical and civil, without the least violation; and enjoining loyalty, af- fection and obedience on the part of his New-England subjects. Thomas Willet was chosen to confer with the commissioners in behalf of the Plymouth colony, making respectful professions of fidelity and allegiance. 1665. — The following are the proposhions made by his ma- jesty's commissioners to the general court of New Plymouth, held at Plymouth, for the jurisdiction of New Plymouth, the twenty-second of February, Ann. Dom. 1665. 1. That all householders inhabiting in the colony take the oath of allegiance; and the administration of justice be in his majesty's name. 2. That all men of competent estates and civil conversation, though of different judgments, may be admitted to be freemen, and have liberty to choose and be chosen officers, both civil and military. 3. That all men and women of orthodox opinions, competent knowledge, and civil lives, (not scandalous,) may be admitted to the sacrament of the Lord's supper, and their children to baptism, if they desire it: either by admitting them into the congregations already gathered, or permitting them to gather 1665] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 121 themselves into such congregations, where they may have the benefit of the sacrament. 4. That all laws and expressions in laws, derogatory to his majesty, if any such have been made in these late troublesome times, may be repealed, altered, or taken off from the file. The Courts Jinswer. 1. To the first we consent, it having been the practice of this court, in the first place, to insert in the oath of fidelity required of every householder, to be truly loyal to our sovereign lord, the king, his heirs, and successors. Also, to administer all acts of justice in his majesty's name. 2. To the second we also consent, it having been our con- stant practice to admit men of competent estates and civil con- versation, though of different judgments, yet being otherwise orthodox, to be freemen, and to have liberty, to choose and be chosen officers, both civil and military. 3. To the third we cannot, but acknowledge it to be a high favor from God and from our sovereign that we may enjoy our conscience in point of God's worship, (the main end of trans- planting ourselves into these remote corners of the earth,) and should most heartily rejoice, that all our neighbors, so qualified as in that proposition, would adjoin themselves to our societies, according to the order of the gospel, for enjoyment of the sacraments to themselves and theirs; but if, through different persuasions respecting church government, it cannot be ob- tained, we would not deny a liberty to any, according to the proposition, that are truly conscientious, although differing from us, especially where his majesty commands it, they maintain- ing an able preaching ministry for the carrying on of public sabbath worship, which, we doubt not, is his majesty's intent, and withdraw not from paying their due proportion of mainte- nance to such ministers as are orderly settled in the places where they live, until they have one of their own, and that in such places as are capable of maintaining the worship of God in two distinct congregations. We being greatly encouraged by his majesty's gracious expressions in his letter to us, and your honor's further assurance of his Royal purpose, to con- tinue our liberties, that where places, by neason of our paucity and poverty, are incapable of two, it is not intended that such congregations as are already in being should be rooted out, but their liberties preserved, there being other places to ac- commodate men of different persuasions in societies by them- selves, which, by our known experience, tends most to the pre- servation of peace and charity. 4. To the fourth we consent that all laws and expressions in laws derogatory to his majesty, if any such shall be formed 11 122 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1665 amongst us, which at present we are not conscious of, shall be repealed, altered, and taken off from the file. By order of the general court for the > jurisdiction of New Plymouth. ) Per me, Nathaniel Morton, Secretay^y. The conditions expressed in the answer to the third proposi- tion appeared so reasonable to the commissioners, that when they afterwards met the general assembly of Connecticut, in April, 1665, their third proposition is qualified in substance, conformably to the Plymouth reply. — Judge Davis's Ed. Mem. So favorable was the report of the Royal commissioners re- specting the affairs and proceedings of the Plymouth colony, that in 1666 his majesty addressed a second letter to that gov- ernment, in which the Royal approbation and praise are ex- pressed in exalted terms, presuming that the fidelity and affec- tion for their sovereign are 'rooted in their hearts.' 'Al- though,' says the letter, ' your carriage of itself must justly deserve our praise and approbation, yet it seems to be set off with more lustre by the contrary deportment of the colony of Massachusetts, as if by their refractoriness they had designed to recommend and heighten the merit of your compliance with our directions for the peaceable and good government of our subjects in those parts. You may, therefore, assure yourselves, that we shall never be unmindful of this your loyal and dutiful behavior, but shall upon all occasions take notice of it to your advantage, promising you our constant protection and royal favor in all things that may concern your safety, peace, and welfare. And so we bid you farewell.' At the general court of magistrates and deputies assembled at Plymouth in October, 1665, it was deemed indispensably necessary that Governor Prince should remove his residence from Eastham to Plymouth, for the more convenient adminis- tration of justice, and he having complied with the requisition, the court therefore ordered that his salary should be £50 per annum. And as he ♦resided in a place which had been pur- chased by the colony ' for that end,' it was further ordered, in case of his decease, his family should be permitted to remain in the place for a year; or if he should not be re-elected, he should be at liberty to remain in the government house a year. With respect to the assistants, it was enacted that the old magistrates should be allowed £20 per annum, and that the charge of their table should be defrayed, and those who were newly elected should be allowed the charge of their table only, 1666 &t 67] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 123 In July, 1667, jE50 annual salary was allowed to all the assist- ants, and the charge of their table. It was also enacted, that such as were chosen to the office, and should refuse to serve, should be fined £5 for the use of the colony. 1666. — 'This year,' says Morton, the author of the New England Memorial, ' much of the wheat is destroyed by blast- ing and mildew; ' audit appears that this evil so frequently at- tended the attempts to cultivate that valuable grain on the sea- coast, that the inhabitants became discouraged and relinquished further trials. This year, it was enacted that only three courts in the year should be holden for the trial of causes by jury, viz. on the first Tuesday of March and July, and the last Tuesday in October, but that it should be lawful, on special occasions, for any citi- zen of the colony, or others, to purchase special courts in the interim, to be composed of the governor and three of the ma- gistrates at least. Subsequently, the governor and two assist- ants were empowered to authorize the purchase of a court, in the interim between the courts, to be holden by the governor and three assistants at least*, and to be at the expense of the applicants. The office and duties of Selectmen. This office was fraught with responsibleness, and required men of good intelligence and information. They were constituted a court for the trial of small causes, being empowered to hear and determine all debts and differences arising betwixt person and person, not exceeding thirty shillings, and also to hear and determine all differences arising betwixt any Indians and English of their respective townships, &c. In 1666, their powers were en- larged ; they might determine cases where the damages were laid at 40s., the right of appeal being preserved. They were also empowered to administer oaths and to issue executions. They were also required to take notice of all who came into the government without the approbation of the governor and two assistants. The court ordered the selectmen to require an account of all whom they should suppose to have neglected public worship, from profanity or slothfulness, and if they were not satisfied to return their names to the court. The select- men were required to take an oath for the just and faithful dis- charge of the duties of their office. 1667. — The town agreed to send for Mr. John Cotton, min- ister, and bear the charge of the transportation of him, and his family and goods from Martha's Vineyard to Plymouth, and to allow him the sum of £50 for the present year. The Royal commissioners having made a special request to 124 HISTORY OF PLYBIOUTH. [1668 the court, that a grant of land might be made to Peregrine White, in respect that he was the first of the English born in these parts, the court granted him 200 acres in Bridgewater, adjoining Massachusetts. In August of this year, the squaw sachem of Pocasset, named Weetamore, in attempting to escape from her pursuers, by crossing Tetticut river on a raft, was drowned. "She was," says Dr. Mather, "next unto Philip in respect of the mischief that hath been done. Some of Taunton, finding an Indian squaw in Mattepoiset, newly dead, cut off her head, and it happened to be Weetamore, i. e. squaw sachem, her head. When it was set upon a pole in Taunton, the Indians who were prisoners there, knew it presently, and made a most horri^ and diabolical lamentation, crying out that it was their queen's head." Was not this an inhuman act.> 1668. — At a town-meeting in October, it was ordered, that the selectmen have full power to require of any that shall re- ceive strangers into their houses to give security, to save the town from charge; and also ordered, that John Everson be forthwith warned to depart from the town. It was ordered, February 5th, that only such be reputed townsmen us were inhabitants and freeholders thereof at the time when the court allowed it to be a town, and thefir successors, and that it be at their liberty to admit such otherij as are house-keepers of hon- est life, and are like to approve themselves so as they may be beneficial to the commonwealth, according to their capacity and abilities. It was this year, in town-meeting, ordered, that all persons shall bring in true bills of their estate to the raters, and if any neglect, it is left to the raters to rate them as they shall in their discretion see cause, and if any one bring in a false bill, the raters, suspecting it, shall present it to the town at a meeting, and, if proved false, the person is to forfeit 12 pence on the pound for whatever rateable goods he hath omitted. The rateable property is then enumerated, and its value stated. All lands, upland and meadow. All stock, as neat cattle, horses, sheep, and s^vine. All single men, who have not presented above 18 pounds stock, shall notwithstanding be rated to that amount. Weavers were rated for their looms. Tailors for their faculty, to be valued at 20 pounds stock. Those in public office, re- ceiving salaries, were rated. All those who are engaged about fishing to be valued at 20 pounds estate. Edward Gray gtood the highest for stock in trade, being six score pounds. Serjeant Harlow, for his faculty, being a Cooper, <£40 -* Joseph Bartlett - - - Cooper, ^30 Samuel Rider, - - - Cooper, £30 1668] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 125 Joseph Dunham - - - Carpenter, £30 James Cole, keeping an Ordinary, £20 I Thomas Lucas, being a Smith, £50 V Jabez Howland - - Smith, £40 Edward Gray, Serjeant Harlow, and Edward -N Dotey, for their boat, £25 Edward Gray for another boat, £25 Jonathan Barnes for a boat, £18 George Watson for a boat, £12 Lieut. Morton for a boat, £18 Impyisonment for Debt authorised. An act for the pre- vention of the diversion of the execution of justice, by fraud or cozen, provided that where estate could not be found " to satisfy any fine or mulct due the country, or to answer a judg- ment obtained against any persons at the particular suit of any, the person of any so fined or cast in law shall be secured, to be responsible thereunto." Constables, in case of the inabihty of coroners, were to call inquests on dead bodies. In reference to such as come to un- timely deaths, it was enacted, July 1673, that there should be no burial without information to a coroner, or a constable where there is no coroner, under a penalty of £5. The near- est relations to the deceased to give notice; if none, any per- son, having knowledge of the fact, was bound to communicate it, for which he was to be paid from the estate of the deceased, and where there was no estate, by the treasurer. In 1668, none were permitted to vote in town-meetings but freemen and freeholders, of £20 rateable estate,, and of good conversation, hiaving taken the oath of fidelity. October. Price of produce was regulated as follows, in pay- ment of minister's salary: Wheat 4s. 6d.; barley 4s.; rye 3s. 6d.; corn 3s. ; peas 3s. ; malt 4s. ; butter 6d. Timothij Hatherly, the founder of Scituate, died there this year. Mr. Hatherly was an eminent English merchant, and had been one of the most zealous of the adventurers in for- warding the settlement of the colony. He came over in the Ann in 1623, as already mentioned, and returned home; came over again in 1632, and settled at Scituate, of which place he may be considered the founder. He was elected an assistant in 1636, and was continued in that office by successive elec- tions until 1658. He was the treasurer of the colony, and sometimes a commissioner of the United Colonies. Mr. Hath- erly was a gentleman of great intelligence and piety, and ex- tremely useful in all the transactions of the colony. A. H. for making a proposal of marriage to E. P. and pro- 11* ; 126 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1669 secuting the same, contrary to her parent's liking and without their consent, and directly contrary to their mind and will, was sentenced to pay a fine of five pounds and find securities for good behaviour, and desist the use of any means to obtain or retain her affections. The bond A. H. acknowledgeth to owe the king £50, J. D. £25, T. W. £25. The condition that whereas the said A. H. hath disorderly and unrighteously en- deavored to obtain the affections of Miss j^. P. against the mind and will of her parents, if therefore the said A. H. shall for the future refrain and desist the use of any means to obtain or retain her affections as aforesaid, and appear at court the first Tuesday of July next, and be of good behaviour, &c. Re- leased July 3d, 1667. A. H. did solemnly and seriously en- gage before the court that he will wholly desist, and never ap- ply himself for the future as formerly he hath done to Miss E. P. in reference unto marriage. July, 1667. Twenty pounds were allowed by the colony towards printing the New England Memorial, and it was recommended to the towns to make a free and voluntary contribution towards it. The treasurer was directed to have it printed, and five pounds more were added. The next year the court ordered the trea- surer to make good a barrel of beef to Mr. Green, the printer, at Cambridge, to satisfy what is behind for printing the New England Memorial, which is something more than is due, but the court is willing to allow it, as he complains of a hard bar- gain. 1669. — Single persons were forbidden to live by themselves, J or in any family excepting such as should be approved by the selectmen. E. D. of Eastham, for slandering and belying his neighbors, was fined twenty shillings, and reserved for future censure to a further trial of his future conversation. J. C. for travelling on Sunday, and W. H. for conveying wood on Sunday, fined ten - shillings each. N. S. for telling several lies to the damage of the -colony, fined £5, or to be whipped. H. R. for abusing her husband, sentenced to be publicly whipped at the post: at the earnest entreaty of herself and others, and promising amend- ment, it was suspended; but if at any other time she be taken in the like fault, it is to be executed. On the eighth of December, 1669, died. Captain Thomas Southworth one of the assistants, at the age of fifty-three. He attracted the attention and respect of the people very early, and was selected to succeed Mr. Brewster in his office of rul- ing elder; but governor Bradford deeming him to be well 1670] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 127 adapted to civil office, the design was abandoned, and Mr. Cushman was elected. Mr. Southworth was elected an assistant in 1652, and con- tinued in the government, with but few interruptions, until his death. He was one of the commissioners of the united colo- nies in 1659, and three years after; again in 1664 he was ap- pointed governor of the colonies' territory on the Kennebec river, in Maine. He was a man eminent for the soundness of his mind and the piety of his heart. It has been noticed, page 107, that governor Bradford married for his second wife Mrs. Alice Southworth, who came over with her two sons. Constant and Thomas. Thomas married his cousin Elizabeth Reyner, a daughter of the Rev. John Reyner, the minister of Plymouth. His only child, Eliza, married Joseph Howland, a son of John Howland, one of the Pilgrims of the Mayflower. * Constant Southworth was admitted a freeman in 1637, and in the same year married a daughter of Mr. Collier. His name is on the list of volunteers to go against the Pequots, in 1637. He was elected deputy for Duxbury in 1649, and in several other years; was colony treasurer from 1659 to 1678, and often one of the assistants. In the early part of Philip's war he was commissary general, and accompanied the army. The famous partizan officer, Benjamin Church, married his daughter Alice, and two of his sons frequently accompanied Church in his expeditions. He died in 1687, leaving thrfee sons, Edward, Nathaniel and William; three married daugh- ters and two unmarried. 1670. — By a law of this year, any one refusing to serve in the office of Selectman was to be fined, and it was ordered that there should be three courts of selectmen in a year. The selectmen were not only the chief executive and police officers of the several towns, charged with a general superintendence of town affairs, and with a general oversight of the morals and manners of the inhabitants, but they were judicial officers. See page 123. y * Captain Soutbworth's death is thus noticed in the records. " On the eighth day of November, Anno Dom. 1669, the honored Cap- lain Thomas Southworth changed this life for a better ; being then abt)ut the age of fifty-three years ; who was a magistrate of this jurisdiction, and otherwise a good benefactor to both church and commonwealth ; and tliat which is more than all that has been named, he was a very Godly man, and he lived and died full of faith and comfort, being much lamented by all of all sorts, sects, and conditions of people within our jurisdiction of New Plymouth. 128 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1671 & 72 In town-meeting, the present year, it was ordered, that there shall be no tar made by any person but such as are townsmen, whose names are entered in the town's list; ordered also, that there shall be no pine knots collected or tar made within the town by others than townsmen, on forfeiture of all such knots or tar. Town proprietors may, by themselves, or order, make ten barrels of tar annually, and no more. It was at the same time ordered, that whatever whale, or part of a whale, or other great fish that will make oil, shall by the Providence of God, be cast on shore within the bounds of the township, every such whale or fish, two parts, of three, shall belong to the town, and the other part to such as may find and cut them up, and try out the oil, provided they be of the town proprietors. 1671. — John Prince and Nathaniel Bosworth, of Hull, pe- titioned the General Court of Plymouth for liberty to fish at Cape Cod for mackerel, they having, discovered a method of fishing with nets by moonlight. This year the code of laws for the colony was again revised, and the next year printed, with this title: The book of the general laws of the inhabitants of the jurisdiction of New Ply- mouth. Printed by Samuel Green, of Cambridge. * John Barnes was standing at his barn door stroking his bull, when the animal turned suddenly and thrust his horn into his thigh, making a wound eight inches long, from which he lan- guished about thirty-two hours, and then died. From him probably descended the family of Barnes, in this town. 1672.— February 23d, Mr. John Rowland, sen. of Plymouth, deceased. *' He was a Godly man and an ancient professor in the ways of Christ; he lived to the age of 80 years, and proved a useful instrument of good in his place. He was the last man that was left of those that came over in the ship called the Mayflower that lived in Plymouth; he was with honor in- terred at Plymouth on the 25th of February." Mr. Howland was an assistant in the government as early as 1633, and for several years afterward. He left several daughters and four sons, viz. John, who settled at Barnstable; Joseph, settled at Middleborough; Jabez, was a very active and enterprising Lieut, under Capt. Church in Philip's War, and after the conquest of Mount Hope, he settled at Bristol, in Rhode Island. * ' Governor Hutchinson, with unaccountable carelessness, has assorted, ('vol. ii. 463) that they never established any distinct code or body of laws ; grounding his assertion on a passage in Hubbard's MS. History, which implies no such thing. — Belknap. 1671 & 72 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 129 The following remarks and family Genealogy, are from the pen of the venerable John Howland, President of the Rhode / Island Historical Society. Unaccountable as it may appear, it is unhappily true that very few of those men who first arrived from England, and com- menced the settlement of the New-England Colonies left any memorials for the information of their descendants respecting the place of their birth or residence in the country they left, or any account of those branches of their respective families which they left behind. Roger Williams was a learned man, and one of the principal founders of the Colony of Rhode Island, and of which he was several years Governor, he wrote and published several Tracts on different subjects, yet left nothing from which we are able even to infer the place of his birth or education, and what is deemed peculiarly unfortunate for the history of the State, neither himself or any of his colleagues in the enterprise have left any notice of the time of his arrival at Providence. Records, as well as tradition, assure us that his arrival, to begin the settlement, was in the year sixteen hun- dred and thirty-six, but the month, or the day cannot now be ascertained. And most of the emigrants who arrived in the Mayflower, and began the settlement of the first Colony, as well as those who came after, seem to have literally obeyed the advice and injunction of the Royal Prophet, in the 45th Psalm — Forget also thine own people and thy Father^ s house; instead of thy Fath- erSj shall be thy children. So far as relates to historical or fam- ily records their descendants seem to have been as forgetful as their parents; it is therefore at this day a work of time and great labor to trace the genealogical time of a family from the Pilgrims, even though their ancestors were in their day men of renown. I have nevertheless thought it proper to engross such notices of my ancestors as I have been able to collect and which may be more likely to be preserved here than on the loose papers on which the Memorials were first entered. John Rowland and his wife, Elizabeth Carver, daughter of/ Governor Carver, arrived at Plymouth in the ship called the Mayflower, December 16th, old style, 1620. John Rowland and Elizabeth his wife had four sons and six 130 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1671 &, 72 daughters, the names of the sons were John, Jabez, Isaac, and Joseph. (See page 128 of the present volume.) The names of the six daughters, who were allliving and married at the time of their father's decease, are entered in his will as follows ; Desire Gorham. Hope Chipman. Elizabeth Dickenson. Lydia Brown. Hannah Bos worth. Ruth Cushman. John Howland, son of John Howland who arrived at Ply- mouth, settled in Barnstable. Jabez, the 2nd son after the Indian war settled in Bristol. Isaac, settled in Middleborough. Joseph, the 4th son settled in Plymouth. Jabez Howland, second son of John Howland and Elizabeth his wife was married to Bethia Thacher, only daughter of An- thony Thacher of Yarmouth. Before their removal to Bristol, they had three sons born in Plymouth, viz: Jabez, born 15th September, 1669. Josiah, born August 1st, 1676. John, born July 26, 1679. Samuel born in Bristol. Joseph, born in Bristol, October 14th, 1692. From the four sons jfirst above mentioned are descended a numerous posterity. For the very interesting account of the life of Anthony Thacher and of his descendants in the male line, see the history of the Thacher family, published by Dr. James Thacher one of the descendants. See also the recordof illustrious providences by Increase Mather, published in Boston in the year 1684. Joseph Howland, youngest son of Jabez and Bethia How- land and grandson of John Howland and Elizabeth his wife, born October 14th, 1692. Bathsheba Gary, daughter of David Gary was born August 14th, 1693. Joseph Howland was married to Bathsheba Gary, to whom were born: Lydia, November 6, 1715. Joseph, born December 6, 1717. Elizabeth, February 14th, 1719. Joseph Howland, son of Jabez, and grandson of John and Elizabeth Howland who arrived at Plymouth in the Mayflower, died August 16th, 173.7.. 1671 Sl 72] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 131 Joseph Howlandj son of Joseph and Bathsheba settled in Newport, R. I. In the year 1638, (which was two years after Roger Wilhams and his company settled at Providence) Wilham Coddington and seventeen other gentlemen from Massachusetts began the settlement of the Island of Rhode Island, the Indian name of which was Aquetneck, sometimes called by Gov. Winthrop in his Journal Aquaday. They purchased the Island, by the agency and assistance of Roger Williams of the two great Sachems of Narraganset, Conanicus and Miantinoma, and gave the Indians who lived on the Island twenty hoes, some strings of beads and other articles to move off and give them quiet possession. Of the number of purchasers was James Barker, and on the divi- sion of the land a large tract near the south east part of the Island fell to his share, and at his death was principally divided among his four sons. James Barker's name stands in the charter of King Charles the second, as one of the Proprietors forming the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, and he is there ap- pointed one of the ten assistants. His age or the time of his death I have not yet ascertained. Jeremiah Barker, grandson of James Barker, was born January 16th, 1699, and in 1724 was married to Penelope Hicks, who was born July 24th, 1703. Sarah Barker, daughter of Jeremiah and Penelope Barker, born April 5th, 1725. She was born, and lived till her marriage, in the house first built on that part of the Island by her great grandfather, James Barker. The house stood on the east side of the brook and on the west side of the road in Middletown, which leads to Sachawest Beach. * Joseph Howland, son of Joseph and Bathsheba Howland, grandson of Jabez and Bethia Thacher Howland, and great grandson of John Howland, who arrived in the Mayflower, was in 1746, married to Sarah Barker, daughter of Jeremiah and Penelope Barker. Henry Howland, son t)f Joseph and Sarah Howland was born in Newport in 1751, and is now living, he married Susan Baker. Their only son, Benjamin Baker Howland, is the pre- sent Town Clerk, and Clerk of Probate in Newport. Penelope Howland only daughter of Joseph and Sarah How- land born in 1755, married Captain John Taber. From this mar- riage are descended children to the third and fourth generation. John Howland, son of Joseph Howland and Sarah his wife, was born in Newport, October 31st, 1757, removed to Provi- dence, and January 28th, 1788, was married to Mary Carlile, daughter of John and Ehzabeth Carlile, and great grand-daugh- 132 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ter of the elder brother of Dr. Benjamin Franklin. To them were born : Alfred, born February 26, 1790. Penelope, January 19th, 1792. Benjamin Russell, October 20th, 1793. Janetta, October 6th, 1801. Mary, August Uth, 1805. Six children of John and Mary Howland, whose names are not entered here, died under the age of 2 years. Alfred, eldest son of John and Mary Howland, died February 4th, 1816, aged 26 years. Benjamin Russell, son of John and Mary Howland, died in Nashville, Tennessee, October 16th, 1827. Penelope Howland married to Amherst Everett, son of Dr. Abijah Everett, of Attleborough, August 19th, 1813. Mary Howland married to Roland Lyman of East Hampton, December 30th, 1831. Cliildren of Amherst and Penelope Everett. Mary Howland Everett, John Howland Everett, Alfred Howland Everett, Edward Amherst Everett, Bethia Thacher Everett, Richmond Everett. Elizabeth Russell, daughter of Roland Lyman and Mary his wife, born March 23d, 1835. RECAPITULATION. FIRST GENERATION. John Howland and Elizabeth his wife, who arrived at Ply- mouth, December 22d, 1620. SECOND GENERATION. Jabez Howland and Bethia Thacher his wife. THIRD GENERATION. Josiah Howland and Bathsheba his wife. FOURTH GENERATION. Joseph Howland and Sarah his wife. FIFTH generation]! Henry Howland and Susan his wife. Penelope Howland, her husband John Taber. 1671 & 72] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 133 John Rowland and Mary, his wife. Benjamin Rowland and Susan his wife. (Omitted in the preceding page.) SIXTH GENERATION. Benjamin Baker Rowland, of Newport, Penelope Everett, ^ Jenetta Rowland, > daughters of John Rowland. Mary Lyman, ) Six sons and three daughters of Benjamin Rowland. SEVENTH GENERATION. Three children of Benjamin B. Rowland. Four children of Amherst Everett. One child of Roland Lyman. Six grandchildren of Benjamin Rowland. 12 134 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1673 1673.— March 29th, died at Eastham, Governor Thomas Prince, in the 73d year of his age, and his remains were brought to Plymouth, and on the 8th of April were honorably interred among the fathers on the burial hill. Mr. Prince ar- rived at Plymouth in the Fortune, in 1621, when about 21 years old. In 1624, he married Fear, the daughter of Elder Brewster. In 1634 he was chosen governor. The next year, being a widower, he married Mary, the daughter of Mr. Wil- liam Collier. About this time it is presumed he removed to Duxbury, where Mr. Collier resided. His residence at Ply- mouth is indicated by a reference in the records to his lot in ' High Street.' In 1638, Mr. Prince again served in the office of governor. Before he was again elected in 1657, he had re- moved to Eastham, The law required the governor to reside at Plymouth, but there was dispensation in his favor until 1665, when he removed to Plymouth, and took possession of a place provided for him by the government, which he occupied until his death. It was more than a mile from the centre of the town, on the road towards Boston, and was called Plain Deal- ing. This place was well known as the Lothrop farm, and is now in the occupancy of Isaac L. Hedge, Esq. The governor's salary was at the time established at £50 per annum, and it was stipulated that he should receive that sum annually, so long as he should be governor of the colony. The administration of Governor Prince was inauspicious and perplexing. Many ' uncomfortable jars ' and unhappy animosi- ties prevailed, in consequence of the harsh measures which were pursued against sectaries, especially against the Quakers. The governor had also to encounter many difficulties with the Indians. But, amidst these various perplexities, the govern- or appears to have pursued a firm and steady course in pro- motion of the substantial interests of his constituents; " and if," says Judge Davis, " we except the lamented departure in some instances, from a just and prudent toleration on religious topics, a critical and candid examination of Governor Prince's con- duct during the sixteen successive years of his magistracy, will, it is behoved, find little to reprehend, and much to ap- prove." He is particularly to be applauded for his solicitous attention to the establishment of schools in the colony, of a higher grade than had before existed. Governor Prince was often employed in other public services of importance. He was of the council of war, treasurer of the colony at one time, and often a Commissioner of the United Colonies, His integ- rity was proverbial, and his industry, energy, and sound judg- ment, rendered him a very useful instrument in conducting the 1674] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 135 affairs of the rising colony, ^^and would, we think," says Judge Davis, "have made him a respectable character in a far more considerable community." Among the good deeds of Governor Prince, we should not omit to mention his exertion for a fixed and competent support of an able and learned ministry. In many of the scattered settlements, a disposition prevailed to neglect this important branch of public instruction, or to employ incompetent lay ex- horters, practices which he uniformly discountenanced. Governor Prince left seven daughters, all of whom were married before his decease. His son, Thomas, went to Eng- land, where he married, and died young. The Plymouth church records, in expressing Mr. Prince's character and his amiable and pleasant conversation, depart from their usual course, by an indication of his personal ap- pearance, from which it may be supposed that it was peculiarly dignified and striking. ' He was excellently qualified for the office of governor. He had a countenance full of majesty, and therein, as well as otherwise, was a terror to evil-doers.' The foregoing is an abstract from the ample memoir by Judge Davis, in the Memorial. At the court in June of this year, Josias Winslow, the eld- est son of the late governor Edward Winslow, was elected as the successor of Governor Prince. John Alden remained the first assistant. At a town-meeting, April 22d, Captain William Bradford was appointed and requested to officiate as moderator at all town-meetings, and ordered that the principal things to be proposed at the meetings be drawn up in writing, and openly read. It was ordered, that every man in the town shall pro- cure twelve black-birds' heads, on pain of paying a fine of 2s. for every default, or 2d. apiece for so many as shall be want- ing of the dozen. It was also ordered, that all such persons as refuse to pay their rates shall be denied all the town privi- leges, and that none be permitted to be inhabitants in the town before they engage to bear their proportion of all town charges. 16T4. — This year an Indian, named John Saussaman, de- serted the service of King Philip, and informed the governor of the Indian combination for the extermination of the English. While the government were concerting measures of defence, Saussaman was murdered, and his body concealed under the ice in Assawamset pond, in Middleborough. The murderers, three of Philip's men, being detected, were tried by a court holden in June, six grave Indians being on the jury. — See 136 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1675 Appendix. They were condemned to suffer death and were executed. The sanguinary war that followed menaced all New England with destruction. A wide spreading desolation and slaughter of the defenceless men, women and children ensued. 1675. — It was ordered by the court, that during the time of public danger every man that comes to meeting on the Lord's day, bring his arms with him, with at least five charges of pow- der and shot, under a penalty of two shillings for every default. That whoever shall shoot off a gun on any unnecessary occa- sion, or at any game except at an Indian or a wolf, shall forfeit five shillings for every such shot, until further liberty shall be given. This year William Macumber, for calling on an Indian for a debt on Sunday, and a man for fighting on Sunday, were fined forty shillings each, or to be publicly whipped. The gen- eral court ordered that four halberts should attend the governor and assistants on election days, and two during the continuance of the court. In town-meeting, May 24th, it was unanimously agreed that the house and land on which Mr. John Cotton, their pre- sent minister now lives, shall be given to him and to his heirs and assigns forever, in case the said Mr. Cotton liveth and dieth in this place in the work of the ministry. In considera- tion of which, the said Mr. Cotton and his wife do fully and freely quit and discharge the said town of the fifty pounds which they had promised to Mistress Cotton formerly, in case of her husband's death in this place. Moreover, it is agreed, that the said house shall now be viewed by four men, mutually chosen by the said town, and Mr. Cotton to set a just value upon it, and if God by his Providence shall call Mr. Cotton from his work in this place during his life time, then the said house shall be again valued by four men mutually chosen as above, and the town will pay to Mr. Cotton the amount of the sum so determined. October 4th. — At the General Court of his majesty, held at Plymouth, Major James Cudworth was unanimously chosen and re-established in the ofi^ice of General or Commander-in- chief, to take the charge of our forces that are or may be sent forth in the behalf of the colony against the enemies, as occa- sion may require. — See Appendix. Captain John Gorham to be captain of a company. In reference to such emergent charges that have fallen on our honored governor the summer past, the court have settled and conferred on him the price of ten Indians, of those savages lately transported out of the gov- ernment. One hundred and seventy-eight had recently been shipped on board of Captain Sprague for Cadiz. 1676] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 137 1676. — January 7th. — The town having received by their Constables two warrants, the one requiring the town to press eleven able men to go forth as soldiers against the Indians, the other requiring a rate of eleven pounds to be raised towards the charge of the soldiers, the town appointed a council of war and raters to levy the said rate, that the aforesaid requirements may be speedily complied with. February I9th. — A fortification was ordered to be erected on Fort Hill, one hundred feet square, with palisadoes ten and a half feet high, and three pieces of ordnance planted within it; on which occasion all the males of sixteen years and upwards assisted in its erection. At the same time the town agreed with Nathaniel Southworth to build a watch-house, " which is to be 16 feet in length, 12 feet in breadth, and 8 feet stud, to be walled with boards and to have two floors, the upper floor to be 6 feet above the lower, to batten the walls and make a small pair of stairs in it, the roof to be covered with shingles, and a chimney to be built in it. For the said work he is to have eight pounds, either in money or other pay equivalent. This was the distressing period of Philip's war, and it was in the depth of winter when these preparations were impe- riously demanded against a savage insidious foe. These pali- sadoes were undoubtedly resorted to occasionally as a safe- guard for the helpless women and children. The fort was so located as to have a spring of water at hand, and to command an extensive landscape around. This cruel war between Philip and the English settlers was attended by inexpressible calami- ties, each party making every possible effort for the total over- throw of its antagonist. After its continuance of about two years it terminated in the death of Philip and the extinction of his tribe, while on the part of the colonies was suffered a loss of about six hundred men in the flower of their strength, twelve or thirteen towns were destroyed, and six hundred dwelling houses consumed, and more than two thousand pounds sterling expended,* During the continuance of this war all the inhab- itants of Middleborough were compelled to take refuge in the town of Plymouth. A brief history of Philip's war will be * It does not appear that, during the war with the savages, the colonies received any assistance from the parent country. They were treated as voluntary exiles and left to their own defence. — But when the country had increased in population and in com- merce, the English government discovered an anxious desire to draw a revenue from the descendants of those who h'ad been thus despised and neglected. 12* 138 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1678 found recorded in the appendix to this volume. When the times no longer required defence against the Indians, the fort mentioned above was demolished, and the huge timber sold to William Harlow, who converted it into a dwelling house. The lines of the fort are still visible and may be traced with exact- ness, and in the year 1834 an Elm tree was planted in the centre by the author. The cannons employed in the fort were removed to Cole's Hill, for the defence of the town, not against savages, but the assaults of a civilized and kindred people during the revolutionary war. After that event the cannons were sold as refuse iron, and wrought up in a forge at Bridgewater. The antiquarian will regret that these relicts of ancient warfare, these protectors of our ancestors when in a helpless condition, were not transmitted to later generations. It is a consoling fact, says Dr. Holmes's Annals, that our an- cestors purchased of the natives their land for an equivalent consideration, as appears by a letter from the pious governor Winslow, dated at Marshfield, May 1st, 1676, as follows: ' I think I can clearly say, that before these present troubles broke out, the English did not possess one foot of land in this colony but what was fliirly obtained by honest purchase of the Indian proprietors. We first made a law that none should purchase or receive by gift any land of the Indians, without the knowl- edge of our court. And lest they should be straitened, we ordered that Mount Hope, Pocasset, and several other necks of the best land in the colony, because most suitable and con- venient for them, should never be bought out of their hands.' 1678. — The General Court, well aware that it is upon the pastoral office that particular churches must depend for religious instruction and edification, ordered, that proper provision should be made for the support of public worship; and, in 1678, it was enacted that in each town and village within the jurisdic- tion, there should be a house of public worship erected. The provision made in the foregoing law is believed to have been the first where coercive collection of taxes, for the mainte- nance of ministers, was authorized. Orders had been passed which recommended to the people to provide a liberal support for their pastors, but no authority had been given to enforce its coercive payment. In the same year provision was made also for the support of public schools. In November of this year, two more courts were authorized to be holden by the selectmen of towns, in December and May. The laws respecting the sales of strong liquors and wines were renewed, and the penalties increased, and the sale was forbid- 1680] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 139 den to all except strangers, and not allowed to them without a license. The court, conceiving that the public safety required that all persons in the government should abide and continue in each town respectively, ordered that no one should depart on the penalty of forfeiting his whole personal estate, except by al- lowance of the governor, or two magistrates; and it shall be lawful to seize their persons and estates, boats, and carts, that shall be found employed in carrying them away. I cite from the Old Colony Record Book of Court Orders, the following proceeding: — ' This may certify, that certain Indians near Sandwich, whose names are Canootus and Symon and / Joell, being apprehended on their confession, convicted of-' feloniously breaking open a house and stealing from a chest of Zechariah Allen, of Sandwich, twenty-five pounds in money, they having lost or embezzled said money, and no other way appearing how he should be satisfied for his loss, the colony have sentenced the above named Indians to be perpetual slaves, and empower said Allen to make sale of them in New England, or elsewhere, as his lawful slaves for the term of their lives.' Edward Gray hired Clark's Island for seven years, at £3 9s. per annum, to keep 16 neat cattle free of rate, townsmen to have liberty to bring wood for building, fencing and firing. Agawam lands were leased for seven years. 1679. — August 4th. Nathaniel Morton was chosen and sworn Clerk of the town, and it was ordered and voted, that all acts, orders, and grants of land, and all other particulars entered in our town book heretofore, shall be authentic and good in law as if they had been entered by a Clerk under oath. 1680. — Josiah Winslow, governor of Plymouth Colony died December 18th, 1680, in the fifty-second year of his age. He was the son of governor Edward Winslow, born at Marshfield, 1629, and the first governor born in New England. He enjoyed the benefit of his father's care and attention in his early educa- tion, and his whole life evidenced that he copied that eminent man's bright example of steady virtue, public spirit, and disin- terested energetic action. His discretion as a civil magistrate, and his bravery as a military commander, procured him great respect, and the fullest confidence of the people. One of the first steps in his adminis- tration, was to correct a rash proceeding that had made unfavor- able impressions on the minds of many of the best men in the colony. Mr. Cudworth was not only left out of the magistracy, as has been before observed, on account of his opposition to the proceedings against the quakers, but his letter to Mr. Brown, , 140 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 1680] published in England, had given such offence, that he was dis- franchised, and deprived of his military command in Scituate. A like severity, and on similar grounds, had been exercised in regard to Isaac Robinson, son of the Rev. John Robinson. His name was stricken off the list of freemen. Soon after Mr. Winslow's election, both these gentlemen were restored to their former places, and the country had the benefit of Mr. Cud worth's valuable services, in many important trusts in the military and in the civil department. Governor Winslow was eminently serviceable in Philip's war. He commanded the English army at the great Swamp fight in 1676, (See appendix,) and his name is mentioned with honor in various histories of that period. In a letter to governor Leveret, he thus expresses him- self : — 'Some resolute attempt for Philip's surprisal must be put in execution. Would to God I was with our men, so as I might not, in the meantime, be missed at home. I should hope, by the blessing of God, to give a good account of him in a short time.' July 26th, 1675, 'My person, I hear, has been much threaten- ed. I have about twenty men at my house; have sent away my wife and children to Salem, that I may be less encumbered; have flankeredmy house, and resolved to maintain it so long as a man will stand by me.' His health, habitually feeble, was much impaired by the fatigues of the Narraganset expedition. In February, 1676, the commissioners of the United Colonies observed, that ' through indisposition of body, he is disenabled from going forth again.' And, therefore, made provision, that the commander-in-chief of the forces of the colony, where the seat of war should happen to be, should be ' chief over the whole.' One hundred pounds was allowed by the commission- ers for his services, and a grant, on the same ground, was made to him by Plymouth colony. His stated salary, as governor, was fifty pounds per annum. The expenses of his funeral, forty pounds, were directed to be paid from the public treasury, ' as a testimony of the colony's endeared love and affection to him.'* Plymouth Record. His wife was Penelope, a daughter of Her- bert Pelham, Esq., a gentleman of distinction, who took an early interest in the settlement of New England, and who came to Boston in 1637, but did not remain long in the country. Gover- nor Winslow was introduced into public life very early, and as soon as he was eligible, was chosen a deputy to the court from Marshfield, and several times afterwards. * Two elegies were written on the death of governor Josiah Winslow ; one by Rev. Mr. VVitherell, of Scituate, the other by Rev. Mr. VViswall, of Duxbury. The former is published in Rev. Mr. Dean's history of Scituate. 1680] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 141 In 1657, soon after the death of his father, he was chosen an assistant, and in 1659, the major, or chief miUtary commander of the colony. He was, for many years, a commissioner of the confederated colonies, and in 1673, after the death of governor Prince, he was chosen his successor. In his native colony, governor Winslow stood on the highest ground in society. ' Civic hon- ors awaited him in his earliest youth ; he reached every elevation which could be attained ; and there was nothing left for ambition to covet, because all had been gained. He lived on his ample paternal domain, and his hospitality was not only generous, but magnificent. In addition to his military and civic distinctions, he had acquired that of being the most accomplished gentleman, and the most delightful companion, in the colony, and the at- tractions of the festive and social board at Careswell were not a little heightened by the charms of his beautiful wife.' 'Mild and tolerant himself,' continues Mr. Baylies, ' he witnessed with regret the movements of that fierce spirit which would not tol- erate the liberality, and was blind to the wisdom of Cudworth and Brown; and he had the address to restore them to the con- fidence of the people, at a period when the curse of the age, the spirit of religious bigotry, was maddened by opposition and armed with power. Persevering, frank, bold and resolute, he encountered the hazard of popular displeasure with the same fearlessness as he did the ambushes and bullets of the savages. ' ^ His only son, the Hon. Isaac Winslow, was eminently distin- guished, having sustained the chief places of power and honor in the colony, as chief military commander under the gov- ernor, and for several years Chief Justice of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas, Judge of Probate of Wills, and one of his Majesty's Council for the Province of Massachusetts Bay for more than twenty years, and for several years President of that body. This gentleman possessed a true English spirit, much given to hospitality, and was universally beloved. He died at his seat at Marshfield, December, 1738,1 in the 68th year ^ Tradition gives the following anecdote : " At the funeral of Gov. J. Winslow, Rev. Mr. Witherell, of Scituate, prayed that the Governor's son might be made half equal to his father. The Rev. Dr. Gad Hitchcock, on the same occasion, observed, that the prayer was so very reasonable that it might be hoped that God would grant it, but he did not. f He was buried on the 18th of December. The bearers were Col. Thaxter, Col. Lathrop, N. Thomas, N. Sever, Kenelni Winslow, Esq., and J . 142 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH-. [1680 of his age. He lived to see both of his surviving sons, John and Edward, take their turns as clerks of the same courts. His eldest son, a young gentleman of great promise, by the name of Josiah, engaged in military service, received a cap- tain's commission, and was killed in battle, with thirteen of his company, after a most gallant resistance against a superior force of French and Indians in 1724. General John Winslow, the eldest of the surviving sons of Isaac, was a distinguished and successful commander. In 1740, he commanded a company in the expedition against Cuba, and afterwards rose to the rank of Major-general in the British service.* In 1755, an expedi- tion against Nova Scotia was undertaken by the British Gov- ernment, of which General Monckton was commander-in-chief, and General (then Colonel) John Winslow, second in command. So great was the popularity of Colonel Winslow, that in an in- credible short time he raised for this expedition two thousand men. The two French forts were captured, with scarcely any loss on the part of the conquerors, and the whole Province completely reduced, chiefly through the enterprise and good conduct of Colonel Winslow: to him too was entrusted the dif- ficult and delicate task of removing the French neutrals. In * We have now in the library of the Pilgrim Society three com- missions to John Winslow, Esq. 1. Commission by Gov. Shirley, authorising him to hold courts- martial while on the expedition to Crown Point, 1755. 2. Commission by Gov. Hardy, of New York, to be General and commander-in-chief of the Provincial troops, July, 1756. 3. By Gov. Pownal, to be Major-general in the king's service, 1757. Gen. Winslow was remarkable for his skill in horsemanship. He imported a valuable horse from England, and it was among his great- est delights to be mounted on his favorite animal. On a certain oc- casion, a number of gentlemen of this town formed a party with Gen. Winslow, for a pleasure excursion to Saquish, in Plymouth harbor, and to return to dine in town. While there, Winslow fell asleep ; the other gentlemen silently withdrew, and pursued their journey. When he awoke and found himself deserted, he mounted, and daringly plunging his steed into the channel, swam him across, and landed on Plymouth beach, a distance estimated at something more than half a mile, from whence he rode into town, making the whole distance but six miles, while his companions were riding four- teen miles. On their arrival, they were astounded to find the Gen- eral seated at the tavern, prepared to greet them with a bowl of punch. 1680] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 143 1756, he commanded at Fort William Henry, on Lake George. He was also a counsellor of the Province. He died at Marsh- field in 1774, at the age of 73. General John Winslow resided for several years in Plymouth: he owned the house which now belongs to the heirs of Hon. James Warren, making the southwest corner of North street. The fact is well understood that many of this ancient family had been educated from infancy under the beguiling influence and favor of the Royal government. At the commencement, and during the whole progress of the revolutionary struggle, therefore, it was found difficult to espouse a cause so totally in- compatible with their sense of duty to their sovereign, and the family were subject to much obloquy and unhappiness by their faithful adherence to the royal cause. General John Winslow left two sons, Pelham* and Isaac. Pelham, from principle was in the Royal interest, and being obnoxious to popular resent- ment, found it expedient to resort to the British for protection, and he died on Long Island in the year 1776. Isaac was loyal also, but in the medical profession, and resided on the paternal estate at Marshfield, where he died in 1819, aged 81 years. Edward the youngest brother of General John Winslow, was an accomplished scholar and a gentleman of fine taste. He resided in Plymouth, and together with his son, filled the offices of clerk of the court. Register of Probate and collector of the Port. Being a professed royalist, he removed to Halifax with his family, soon after the commencement of hostilities, where he died, June 8th, 1784, aged 72 years. The ceremonies at his funeral were in a style to confer the highest honor and re- spect on the venerable deceased. In consequence of his re- moval, his estate in his native town was confiscated, but every branch of his family was by the British Government amply * Pelham married the daughter of Capt. Gideon White, of this town, whom he left with two daughters ; the elder married the late Henry Warren, Esq. and the younger married Nathan Hayward, Esq. Isaac Winslow, the physician, married the daughter of the elder Dr. Stockbridge, of Scituate. His children were John, an em- inent lawyer, who died at Natches, 1820, where he had removed on account of his health. The daughters are three, the wife of Kilborn Whitman, Esq., the widow of Thomas Dingley, Esq., and the wife of Ebenezer Clapp, Esq. John left two sons and three daughters, Pelham, the eldest son, died in 1832. Isaac, who now resides in Boston, is the only male survivor in New England, descended from Gov. Winslow. 144 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1G81 provided for during the remainder of their lives. His son, Ed- ward Winslow, Jr. was also an intelligent and accomplished gentleman; he graduated at Harvard College in 1765. He was one of the founders and most active members of the Old Colony Club, and his address on the 22d of December, 1770, was the first ever delivered on that occasion. This gentleman being friendly to the royal cause joined the British at Boston before the war commenced, and was afterwards appointed a colonel in their service. He subsequently received the ap- pointment of Chief Justice in New Brunswick, and his poster- ity are still in the enjoyment of high official distinctions^ in that Province. A writer in the Boston Gazette, November, 1826,* having just visited the seat of the Winslow family, speaking of the family portraits, says, ' all of which we hope may at no distant day be copied to adorn the Pilgrim Hall at Plymouth; that of Josiah Winslow is evidently by the hand of a master, and his beautiful bride makes one of the group. She appears about twenty, and her costume is more modern than is given to other females of that period. Her head-dress is of great sim- plicity, the hair parted on the top, and falling in ringlets on each side of her temples and neck; the countenance bespeaks intelligence and gentleness.' There are yet in existence some relics belonging to the Winslow family. A sitting chair which was screwed to the floor of the Mayflower's cabin, for the convenience of a lady: it is known to have been in the possession of Penelope Wins- low, who married James Warren. This chair is now in pos- session of Miss Hannah White, a direct descendant from Per- egrine White. A watch-purse, composed of sm.all beads, which was made by Penelope Pelham, while on her voyage to America. She married governor Winslow. A curious ring, which contains the hair of governor Josiah Winslow; and a pearl spoon. These last articles are in possession of Mrs. Hay- ward, who was a Winslow. 1681. — It was ordered by the town that no foreign Indians be permitted to hunt within the precincts of our township, and that if they do not desist, complaint be made against them to the court. August 22d. In reference unto John Harman, the town ordered, that if any person should come and set him down in the street in the town, a warrant shall be in readiness to arrest the man that shall bring him and leave him in the street, or any part or place within our township, to answer for a breach of law in the cause. ^Alden Bradford, Esq. 1682] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 145 May 21st. The town empowered the deputies to make de- fence in plea concerning John Harman, and do hereby engage to stand to what they shall conclude in that respect; and the town likewise engage to pay the charge that may arise in that behalf. And the town also voted, that no housekeeper in the town shall entertain any stranger in his house above a fortnight, without giving information to the selectmen, upon the forfeiture of 10s. a week for all such time as any such stranger shall be so entertained, and the selectmen are required to see that no charge fall on the town by any such neglect. Thomas Hinckley of Barnstable, succeeded Josiah Winslow in the office of governor; and was re-elected to that office for several years. Military companies were required to fill vacan- cies with able officers, and the soldiers were to be provided with swords and cutlasses. The selectmen were required to be un- der oath, and the secretary was to furnish them a book contain- ing all the orders of court. It was also ordered, that in every town of the jurisdiction, three men should be chosen and joined with the commissioned officers to be the town council. Elder Faunce was one of three members of this board, v^hose duty seems to have been, to adjust and make taxes accruing in military affairs, and to provide for the general defence. 1682. — Agawam land was sold, to build a meeting-house; a free passage for the alewives up the brook from Buzzard's Bay reserved to the town, and the jurisdiction of the territory. This meeting-house was the second built on the same lot in the town square. The town's part of the money, which Mount Hope land sold for, went in part for this appropriation. A person was appointed by the town to grant tickets, accord- ing to law in such cases provided, to such persons as are ne- cessitated to travel on the Lord's day. The people were re- quired to refrain from labor and recreation on fast and thanks- giving days, and from travelling on the sabbath and on lecture days. Inn-keepers were required to clear their houses of all persons able to go to meeting, except strangers. Severe laws were passed in 1677 and in 1682, regulating the lives and conduct of the Indians, requiring them to live order- ly, soberly and dihgently. In each town where Indians live, one able, discreet man was to be appointed by the court of as- sistants to take oversight and government of the Indians in said town, and to take notice of all breaches of the laws. In each town where Indians reside, every tenth Indian shall be chosen by the court of assistants annually, as an overseer, who shall take particular inspection and oversight of his nine men, and present their faults to the proper authority. 13 146 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1683, 84, 85 It was also ordered, that the overseers and tithing-men should appoint Indian constables annually, who shall attend their courts, and the constables shall obey all the warrants of the overseers on such penalty as the court of assistants shall inflict. The Indians were subject to all capital and criminal laws made for the English in the colony. For drunkenness, for the first fault to pay a fine of five shillings, or be whipped; for the second, ten shillings, or be whipped. Charles Stockbridge was employed by the town to build a grist-mill this year, now called the upper mill, being then the second on the same stream. 1683.— The court ordered that the selectmen in each town take care that the poor in their respective townships be pro- vided for at the charge of the town. A bridge over Eel river, and one over Jones's river, ordered to be built. 1684. — ^The king's highways were laid out through the town- ship. 1685. — The town chose Major Bradford and Joseph Warren to be their agents to appear at the court and answer the town's presentment relating to Jones's river bridge, and act on the town's behalf with the agents from the four other towns, who are engaged with this town to repair the said bridge. This is the date of the colony of Plymouth being divided into three counties, Plymouth, Barnstable, and Bristol, and in the same year 'their body of laws was revised and published. It is a small but venerable volume, and contains many marks of the wisdom and piety of the framers.' There were at that time in the colony, 1439 praying Indians, besides boys and girls under twelve years of age, who were supposed to be more than three times that number. The puritans did not take the name of Christians for the purpose of conquest or gain; it was among their first concerns to conciliate the Indians, and thus prepare the way for their con- version to the christian faith, and great eflx)rts were made for their religious instruction. Judge Davis, in his Appendix to the Memorial, observes, that the employment of the more intel- ligent and energetic Indians as rulers, was particularly grateful to them. He had often heard of amusing anecdotes of the In- dian rulers. The following warrant is recollected, which was issued by one of those magistrates, directed to an Indian con- stable, and will not suffer in comparison with our more verbose forms. ' I, Hihoudi, you Peter Waterman, Jeremy Wicket, quick you take him, fast you hold him, straight you bring him before me, Hihoudi.' 1685] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 147 On the 28th of June, died Mr. Nathaniel Morton, secretary of the colony court, and author of New England's Memorial. Nathaniel Morton was the son of Mr. George Morton, who came to Plymouth, with his family, in July, 1623. He had been an inhabitant of the same village with governor Bradford, in the north of England, and married the governor's sister. He died in June, 1624, leaving a widow and four children, Nathan- iel, John, Patience, and Ephraim, John, the second son, was an early settler in Middleborough. Ephraim was born on the passage from England; he became a man of considerable dis- tinction in the colony. He was for nSany successive years, a member of the council of war, and with John Bradford, repre- sented the town of Plymouth in the General Court holden in Boston, after the union with Massachusetts. From this branch is descended Marcus Morton, Esq., now one of the justices of our supreme judicial court, and also Perez Morton, Esq., late at- torney General of Massachusetts. Patience Morton married John Faunce, and was the mother of Elder Thomas Faunce. Na- thaniel was twelve years old when his father died. He was ad- mitted a freeman in 1625, and the same year was married to Lydia Cooper. In 1645 he was chosen clerk, or secretary of the colony court, and in 1679 he was sworn into office of town clerk. In 1673, his wife died. His second wife, who survived him, was Ann Templar, of Charlestown, a widow. He had eight children, all by his first wife, two sons who died in child- hood, and six daughters. All the daughters were married in his lifetime. Two of them, Mercy and Elizabeth, died before their father. The death of Elizabeth, the wife of Nathaniel Bosworth, of Hull, and her honorable burial at Plymouth, are mentioned in the old colony records. The four surviving daugh- ters, Remembrance, Lydia, Hannah and Joanna, were married to Abraham Jackson, George Ellison, Isaac Cole, and Joseph Prince. I have seen in the hands of Nathaniel M. Davis, Esq., an original deed executed by the four daughters and their hus- bands, dated April 6, 1692. The grantors describe themselves as the sons-in-law and daughters of the late Nathaniel Morton, and convey 'that tract of land our father lived on, as also the dwelling-house that our father lived in.' This is the estate now belonging to the heirs of the late Deacon Thomas Atwood, near Hobbs' hole brook. It was at his residence, by the side of Willingsly brook, that secretary Morton wrote the New England Memorial, and the church records, and performed many useful labors for posterity. Here, in the goodness of his heart, the venerable man contemplated the providence of God towards his 148 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ' [1685 exiled brethren, and offered his fervent devotions in behalf of the Leyden church. It was evidently the earnest desire of Mr. Morton to leave a correct history of the New England colonies, for the benefit of future generations, and his station in life afforded him peculiar facilities for the undertaking. He was scrupulously faithful in recording all interesting events and occurrences of his own times, that New England might remember the ' day of her small things,' and that he might contribute his share of origi- nal materials for a true and full history. The work is written in a modest simplicity of»style, and contains the annals of New England, but with a special reference to Plymouth colony, for the space of forty years. From his sense of religious duty he was induced to take a particular notice and make honorable mention of those eminent christians who finished their course in his day. The first edition of the Memorial was published in 1669. It was printed in Cambridge, by Samuel Green and Marmaduke Johnson, who received for that service a grant of twenty pounds fVom the colony, and afterwards a small additional gra- tuity. This work was recommended to public notice by two cotemporary worthies, who in after time have been celebrated as among the greatest divines of New England, Rev. John Higginson of Salem, and Rev. Thomas Thacher of Boston. The Memorial has been a source of resort for all succeeding writers on the same subject. Mr. Prince speaks of Morton's Memorial as the first source of his own information in compil- ing his invaluable annals. The work, it will be allowed, con- tains a rich fund of interesting narrative, relative to the early events which ought to be remembered, and every page indi- cates a mind imbued with the true spirit of piety and benevo- lence. Although written in plain language, and the facts are unadorned, the solid good sense of the author, and his lauda- ble attachment to all good men, and his love of country, are conspicuous throughout the whole. It must not be denied, however, that on some occasions this good man suffered his mind to be too much swayed by prejudice; but where is the man without the foible incident to our nature.^ Mr. Morton died at the age of 73, having sustained the office of Secretary of the Courts 40 years, and that of town clerk 6 years, the du- ties of which he ably and faithfully performed. In the office of town clerk he was succeeded by his nephew. Elder Faunce. Besides preparing the Memorial, he collected various papers of much use to the colony, and the present generation is greatly indebted to his industry, and his attention to manuscripts and 1686] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 149 dates, and to incidents which occurred in the colonies in the infancy of their existence. The Memorial passed through a second edition in 1721, to which is attached a supplement by Josiah Cotton, Esq. then register of deeds for the county of Plymouth, continuing the account from 1669, to the union of Plymouth colony with Massachusetts. In 1772, a third edi- tion, copied from the second, was printed at Newport, and in 1826, a fourth edition was printed by Allen Danforth, at Ply- mouth. A fifth edition of this valuable work was published at Boston in 1826, to which are added numerous useful notes, and a copious and interesting appendix by Hon. Judge Davis. 1686. — Mr. Thomas Hinckley was re-elected governor, and WilHam Bradford, deputy governor, from 1682, to the present year. We have to notice a memorable event of this year. *^0n the 29th of December, Sir Edmund Andros arrived at Boston, bringing with him an enlarged commission, which vested the government of all the colonies of New England in him as gov- ernor, and in a council, nominated by the crown; and in 1688 New York was included in the commission. From the com- mencement of the year 1687, to the end of April 1689, he ex- ercised a power over these colonies little short of despotic." Governor Hinckley, whose appointment had been superseded by the appointment of Andros, petitioned the king for a redress of grievances; but the petition was totally neglected, and the colonists were smarting under the severity of arbitrary rule until April, 1689, when a rumor reached Boston that the Prince of Orange had landed in England. The smouldering fire burst forth at once, to the utter dismay of the agent of despotism, The people of Massachusetts, without waiting for a confirmation of the report, seized their arms, proclaimed William and Mary King and Queen of England, arrested the governor, and confined him at the Castle, (which they now called Castle William,) compelled him to resign, terminated the government, and restored their old governor, Simon Brad- street, then at the age of eighty-seven, who was called to the chair, not by the forms of a regular election, but by acclama- mation. The people at Plymouth, actuated by the same spirit, imprisoned Nathaniel Clark, one of the creatures of Andros and one of his council, and issued the following : — ^ A Declaration of sundi'y inhabitants of Plymouth. — Whereas we have not only just grounds to suspect, but are well assured that Nathaniel Clark hath been a real enemy to the peace and prosperity of this people, and hath, by lying and false informa- tion to the late governor, caused much trouble and damage to 13* 150 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1686 this place, endeavored to deprive us of our lands, and exposed us to the unjust severity of persons ill affected to us, whereby a considerable part of our estates is unrighteously extorted from us, to the great prejudice of our families, and the loss of many necessary comforts, and he persisting, from time to time, in his own malicious forging complaints against one or other of us, whereby we are in continual hazard of many further great inconveniences and mischief We do, therefore, seize upon his person, resolving to secure him for the hands of justice^ to deal with him according to his demerit.' The seizure of Clark, who was excessively odious for his meanness and rapacity, was the only act of violence committed in the Plymouth colony. 'A pamphlet was published in the year 1691, and re-printed by Isaiah Thomas in 1773, bearing the title of " The Revolu- tion in New England justified." " To which is added a narra- tive of the proceedings of Sir Edmund Andros and his accom- plices, by several gentlemen who were of his Council." This pamphlet sets forth numerous atrocious deeds perpetrated by Sir Edmund and his minions, the truth of which appears well substantiated by numerous affidavits. Among the accusations are, — that he actually encouraged the Indians to make war upon the English settlers, and furnished them with powder and balls for that purpose, while at war. This they proved by the dec'araion of the Indians themselves, and by squaws detected coming directly from the governor's quarters, having those articles in their baskets. That Sir Edmund invited the French to come and take possession of the country, and that prepara- tions were making accordingly. That property was illegally arrested from proprietors, and that arbitrary fines, taxes, and illegal imprisonments were so common that no one could feel secure from arrest of person and property. That when the people complained of grievances it was declared in the gover- nor's Council, " that the kinp:'s subjects in jyew England did not differ much from slaves, and that the only difference was, that they were not bought and sold.''"' * That those who were in confederacy with Sir Edmund An- dros, for the enriching themselves on the ruins of New Eng- land, did invade the property as well as liberty of the subject, is in the clearest manner proved. They gave out, that now their charter was gone, all their lands were the hinges, that them- selves did represent the king, and that, tlierefore, men that would have any legal title to their lands must take patents of them on such terms as they should see meet to impose. *' What people," asks the writer, " that had the spirit of Eng- lishmen, could endure this.^ " That when they had, at vast 1686] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 151 charges of their owuj conquered a wilderness, and been in pos- session of their estates forty, nay sixty years, that now a par- cel of strangers, some of them indigent enough, must come and inhabit all that the people now in New England, and their fathers before them, had labored for! One Nathaniel Clark, of Sir Edmund's council and crea- tures, desired to have Clark's Island, which belonged to the town of Plymouth, conveyed to him. This was opposed by the town, and their agents obtained a voluntary subscription to bear the cost of the suit, and they were treated as criminals, and against all law compelled to answer in another county, and not in that where the pretended misdemeanor was committed. The Island was, however, conveyed to Clark. The Rev. Mr. Wis wall, minister of Duxbury, by desire of some concerned, transcrfljed a writing, which tended to clear the right which the town had to the Island; not long after, a messenger was sent to bring him before the governor at Boston, on the 21st of June, 1688; he was then lame in both feet with the gout, una- ble to move without great pain; he therefore wrote to the gov- ernor, praying that he might be excused until he should be able to travel, and engaged that then he would attend any court; but the next week an officer, by an express order from' Sir Ed- mund, forced him to ride in that condition, being shod with clouts instead of shoes; and when he came before The Council, he was made to stand till the anguish had almost overcome him. Being at length dismissed from the Council, the messen- ger came and told him he must go to gaol, or enter into bonds for his appearance at the next court in Boston, .and pay down £4 2s. in silver. His sickness forced him to decline a prison, and to pay the money. At the next superior court he appeared in the same lame and sick condition, and the extremity of the weather caused such a violent fit of sickness, that he was nigh unto death, and he thought that he should soon be out of their bonds, and at liberty to lay his information against his op- pressors before the righteous judge of the whole world. After all this he was forced a third time out of his own county and colony, near 40 miles, and was delivered from the hands and humors of his tyrannical oppressors, who had exposed him to great difficulties and charges, and to 228 miles travel, to and from Boston, where he never ought to be called for trial, even had he been guilty of the prefenrferf misdemeanors, which his worst enemies had not the face to read in open court, or openly to charge him with. The following sketch of the character of Nathaniel Clark, compiled chiefly from the papers of the late Isaac Goodwin, Esq., will not be out of place in this connexion. It will serve 152 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1686 to show that our puritan fathers could defeat and overthrow by their determined and irresistible energies the selfish views of a corrupt and unprincipled man. Nathaniel Clark was born in Plymouth, in the year 1644, was the sonof Thomas Clark, who died in 1697 at the advanced age of 98 years, and whose grave stone is among the oldest on our burying hill. He was educated in his native town by sec- retary Morton, and after the death of his patron in 1685, he succeeded him in the office which had been so honorably filled. Besides preserving a register of the legislative proceedings of the colony, the duties of Clerk of the Courts, Register of Deeds and of Probate were all performed by the secretary of that famous republic. An office of such importance in that day necessarily attracted to it much political influence, and its emoluments were not undeserving the attention of the worldly minded and ambitious. Unfortunately for the reputation of Nathaniel Clark, his lot seemed to be cast in a season of pe- culiar temptations, and the principles of his early education formed but a feeble barrier against its assaults. The humble colonists of New England were just recovering from the scourge of an unprecedented Indian war waged for the extermination of Philip and his allies. At this gloomy period, their charters were vacated by writs of ' quo warranto ' from the star-chamber, and Sir Edmund Andros, a fit tool to execute the obnoxious mea- sures of a tyrant, was sent from England to take the head of the government here. He arrived in Boston in the month of De- cember, 1686, and commenced his odious administration by depriving the people of the privilege of choosing their repre- sentatives, by prohibiting town-meetings, excepting for the pur- pose of aiding him in the collection of such taxes as he strove to draw from their limited and scanty resources. The press was to be silenced, and he had orders to maintain such a mili- tary force as would enable him to execute his decrees at the point of the bayonet.* Judge Sewall, who lived in Boston, and was there at the time Andros arrived, notes in his Diary, De- cember 24, 1686, " about sixty red coats are brought to town, landed at Mr, Pool's wharf, where they drew up and so marched to Mr. Gibbs' house at Fort Hill." The simplicity of puritan habits was grossly scandalized by an introduction of false splendor in living, and a feeble imitation of the manners and customs of the great, the irreligious, and the worldly. In the selection of his council, Sir E. Andros made choice, with few exceptions, of such of the citizens as he thought would be ob- sequious to his will and ready to execute his mandates. Be- sides two whom he brought with him, the council consisted of 37 members — appointed from the different colonies in the fol- lowing proportion: 1636] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 153 From Massachusetts 10 New York 8 Plymouth "^ Rhode Island 6 Connecticut 4 New Hampshire ^ From the Plymouth colony the following gentlemen were ap- pointed: Thomas Hinckley, Barnabas Lothrop, William Bradford, Daniel Smith, John Sprague, John Walley, Nathaniel Clark. The unprincipled profligacy of the minions of Andros would have been ill repaid by grants of uncultivated land in the wil- derness; hence, resorting to one of the most odious doctrines of the Feudal system, he declared, that as the charters were va- cated, all the lands had reverted to the King, as the Lord para- mount of the soil, and he, as vicegerent of his majesty, would proceed to parcel them out anew. To preserve a semblance of justice, he offered to confirm the titles of such as would make speedy application, but his grants were so encumbered with fines, forfeitures and fees, that it was estimated there was not personal property enough in the country to supply his ex- actions for these purposes. During the rising indignation of an oppressed people, he began to make his peace by dealing out large tracts of land to such of his followers as would sub- serve his interest. Among these was the subject of this no- tice, — who was no sooner called to the council board at Boston,^ than he was found to be sufficiently yielding to all the wishes of his master. • The Island in Plymouth harbor, called Clark's Island, con- tains a little more than 80 acres of fertile land. It was upon this Island that the first Christian sabbath was kept in New England, for it was the earliest resting place of the Pilgrims from amidst the storm which they encountered on the night of Friday, December 18, 1620, while coasting along the bay in their little shallop, before their final landing. These circum- stances may have led our fathers to attach a superstitious rev- erence to this spot. It was neither sold nor allotted in any of the early divisions of the lands, but was reserved for the bene- fit of the poor, of the town, to furnish them with wood and with pasture for their cattle. 154 ' HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1686 The avarice of counsellor Clark was attracted to this Island, — the hallowed ark that had rescued his fathers from the min- gled horrors of a night storm, upon an inclement and unknown shore, and in succeeding years the support of the destitute and the wretched. His master made the wished for grant, and accordingly on the 3d of March, 1687-8, it was surveyed and laid out for his use. Immediately, in defiance of arbitrary threatenings, and the heaviest denunciations, a town-meeting was called, and a firm and united resolution was adopted, to reclaim the Island at every hazard. A committee was choseu to collect subscriptions to defray the expenses. Amidst the indignation of his townsmen and neighbors, * the secretary stood alone.' He immediately arrested the committee for levy- ing taxes upon his majesty's subjects, and they, together with the town clerk and minister of Duxbury, were bound over to the Supreme Court at Boston. The following letter from Rev. John Cotton, then pastor of the church at Plymouth, to Rev. Mr. Mather of Boston, is feelingly descriptive of these scenes. Plymouth, July 9, 1688. " Awful and considerable changes have attended poor Ply- mouth since your departure from the Gurnet, by reason of the motions about Clark's island. The committee chosen about that affair were at so much charge as necessitated our people to engage, by free and voluntary subscriptions, to re-imburse them, and to vote the securing some lands till the money was paid them. For this (******) tetches, the committee with a writ, charging that they had resolved and raised money upon his majesty's subjects contrary to law, and the town clerk, godly Elder Faunce, for calling the vote, and Mr. Wiswall for writ- ing the paper, £3 7s. each, beside their expenses, and all were bound over to the Superior Court at Boston, where they are^U likely to be considerably fined, besides costs of court, &c." But the reign of tyranny was short. A report of the landing of the Prince of Orange in England reached America early in the year 1689, but before the news of the entire and glorious revolution there had arrived in Boston, Andros was seized and imprisoned by the inhabitants of that town. This took place on the morning of the 18th of April, and William and Mary were proclaimed in Boston on the 29th of the month following. The people of Plymouth at the same time declared their detes- tation of Counsellor Clark by a spirited manifesto, which bears date April 22d, 1689, setting forth his oppressions and his Climes, and declaring that they seized upon his person, resolv- ing to secure him for the hands of justice to deal with him ac- 1686] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 155 cording to his demerit. He was accordingly imprisoned and put in irons, and the next year sent with Andros, his master, in the same ship to England. The government there were not disposed to view their officers in the same light, and they were soon liberated and rewarded for their services in the cause of the British monarch. Nearly a century rolled away, and this account was fully settled, between the injured colonists and their royal masters, — in several distinct payments, the first of which was made on the 19th of April, 1775. Clark, laden with the rewards of his perfidy and baseness, returned to his native town. Under the new charter regular courts were es- tablished, and the counsellor began the practice of the law. The sacredness of those august tribunals could not shield him from obloquy and merited insult. Even his domestic misfor- tunes were not forgotten. At an early period of his life, his wife had obtained a divorce from him. but after his return, la- den with the spoils of tyranny, which enabled them to move in the higher circles of domestic life, she again became united to him, and these facts, clothed in epigrammatic style, were noted on the blank leaves of the books of authorities which he car- ried with him into court. Tradition has faithfully preserved these memorials of the domestic character of the counsellor, — and this illustrates and enforces a venerable maxim, that " the w^ of transgressors is hard." The residence of Mr. Clark was on the spot which is now occupied by the house of the late Judge Thomas, on the west side of the main street in Plymouth. It was here that he died, January 31, 1717, in the 74th year of his age; and a simple slate stone with the following inscription still marks the spot on the burying hill in Plymouth where the remains of the coun- sellor were deposited. '^ Here lies buried the body of Nathaniel Clark, Esq. who died January 31, 1717, in the 74th year of his age." The following notice, from the ecclesiastical records of those times, shows still more fully the character of the counsellor in the domestic relation, and the reputation which he sustained in the venerable church of Plymouth. ' The elder, speaking a few serious words to Nathaniel Clark, a child of the church, he broke forth into a wicked passion and spoke vile words, intimating as if the church would clear the guilty and condemn the innocent; abusing also Paul's words to the maniacs, as if it were better and nearer to salvation to be out of such a church than in it, &c. Being, at another time, 156 , HISTORY OP* PLYMOUTH. [1686 called before the church, he answered that he would not come, that he had nothing to say to them, nor would he have anything to do with them; two of the brethren were desired to call on him, but he refused to attend to their admonition, and at length, absenting himself from public worship and from the meeting of the church, he was judged worthy to be rejected, and it was accordingly voted unanimously that he be disowned.' 1686. — This year died at Duxbury, John Alden, aged 89 years, one of the Pilgrims of the Mayflower, and believed to have been at the time of his death, the last surviving signer of the original compact of Government. He was born in Eng- land in 1597. On his arrival, he resided the first seven years in Plymouth, and owned a considerable tract of land where the Iron factory now stands. He afterwards removed to Duxbury, and took up 169 acres of land in one body, where he spent the residue of his days. He was, for many years, deeply engaged in the public concerns of the colony; being elected an assistant as early as 1633, and continued in that office, with but little interruption, until the time of his death. After the death of Captain Standish, he was for some time treasurer of the colony. He possessed much native talent, was decided, ardent, resolute, and persevering, indifferent to danger, a bold and hardy man, stern, austere, and unyielding; of exemplary piety, and of incorruptible integrity; " an iron- nerved puritan, who could hew down forests and live on crumbs." He hated innovations and changes, steadily walked in the ways of his youth, and adhered to the principles and habits of those whom he had been taught to honor. The un- certainty of his claim to the honor of being the first to leap on the Plymouth rock has been noticed in page 31. He mar- ried Priscilla Mullins, and the following pleasant anecdote re- specting his good fortune in obtaining the hand of that lady, whom he was commissioned to solicit for his friend Captain Standish, is related by Rev. Timothy Alden, in his collection of American epitaphs, as having been carefully handed down by tradition. " 1^ a very short time after the decease of Mrs. Standish, the captain was led to think, that if he could obtain Miss Priscilla Mullins, a daughter of Mr. William Mullins, the breach in his family would be happily repaired. He therefore, according to the custom of those times, sent to ask Mi\_Mul- lins's permission to visit his daughter. John Alden, the mes- senger, went and faithfully communicated the wishes of the captain. The old gentleman did not object, as he might have done on account of the recency of Captain Standish 's bereave- ment. He said it was perfectly agreeable to him, but the young lady must also be consulted. The damsel was called 1686] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 157 into the room, and John Alden, who is said to have been a man of most excellent form, with a fair and ruddy complexion^ arose, and in a very courteous and prepossessing manner deliv- ered his errand. Miss MuUins listened with respectful atten- tion, and at last, after a considerable pause, fixing her eyes upon him with an open and pleasant countenance, said 'prithee John why do you not speak for yourself'?'' He blushed and bowed, and took his leave, but with a look which indicated more than his diffidence would permit him otherwise to express. However, he renewed his visit, and it was not long before their nuptials were celebrated in ample form." What report he made to his constituent, after the first interview, tradition does not unfold, but it is said, how true the writer knows not, that the captain never forgave him to the day of his death. From this union descended all of the name in the United States. They had four sons, viz. John, David, Joseph and Jonathan* John lived in Boston, and commanded the armed sloop belong* ing to Massachusetts. He received unwarrantable and abusive treatment, at the time of the Salem witchcraft, by being sum- moned before the magistrate on that occasion, and imprisoned. He died in 1702, without issue. Joseph settled in Bridge wa- ter; David resided in Duxbury, and was often chosen a deputy to the General Court. He had two sons, Benjamin and Sam- uel. Benjamin had four sons, David, Bezaliel, Wrastling and Abiather. Jonathan, son of the first John, occupied the pater- nal estate at Duxbury, and had three sons, Andrew, Jonathan and John. This John, the youngest, was much employed in public affairs, was often a member of the Gen. Court and Colonel of Militia. He inherited the homestead estate in Duxbury; his sons were John; Samuel, who died in England without is- sue; Judah, who married a Miss Row in Boston, and died on his passage to Glasgow soon after; Briggs, who died October, 1796. He was for several years chosen representative to the General Court, and was much respected as a patriot and citi- zen. Andrew Alden, the son of Jonathan, settled in Lebanon, Connecticut; he had three sons, John, Judah, and Roger. — Judah was a captain in the Revolutionary army, a brave and intelligent officer, but was taken prisoner and died in the hands of the enemy. Roger Alden graduated at Yale College, was for some time secretary to General Washington, and afterwards aid de camp to General Huntington. He is now Postmaster, and superintendent of military stores at West Point. A son of David Alden, whose name was Samuel, lived in Duxbury, and died at the age of 93; he was the father of Colonel Icha- bod Alden, of the Revolutionary army, who was killed by the 14 158 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1687 & 90 savages in Cherry Valley, in 1778. One of Jonathan Alden's daughters married Mr. Bass, of Braintree; one married Josiah, a son of the warrior Miles Standish; the other married Samuel Delano, a son of the early pilgrims. Mrs. Bass was a maternal ancestor of two Presidents of the United States, John Adams and John Q. Adams. Many ex- cellent citizens may be enumerated among the descendants of John* Alden. Judah Alden, Esq. who possesses the paternal domain of his great ancestor, at Duxbury, was a valiant officer in the American army during the eight years of the revolution- ary struggle, and is now President of the Massachusetts Society of Cincinnati. The Rev. Timothy Alden, late minister of Yarmouth, and his son Timothy, late President of Meadville College, in Penn- sylvania, were of this descent. 1687. — The town voted to regulate the price of grain, for the payment of salaries. Tar was made in great abundance, and disposed of in payment of salaries. Shingles and clapboards were considerable aiticles of traffic; but furs and peltry were the principal, as in all new countries. In town-meeting, Janu- ary 23d, was read an order from his excellency to substantiate their title to Clark's Island, which had never before been called in question. This occasioned great excitement, and the town firmly resolved to defend their right to said Island to the utmost of their power, and chose a committee to act in behalf of the town accordingly; and voted, also, that the town will defray the expense, and a tax of ten pounds in silver money was or- dered forthwith for that purpose. — See account of Nathaniel Clark, 1689, June 22d. It was agreed to make sale of Clark's Island, Saquish, the Gurnet, and a certain cedar swamp called Colchester Swamp, to help defray the above mentioned charg- es. Clark's Island was sold to Samuel Lucas, Elkenah Wat- son, and George Morton, in 1690. At that period, under the government of Andros, the titles to real estate were frequently called in question throughout New England, by which many individuals were grievous sufferers. 1690. — The general court of elections assembled at Ply- mouth, as formerly, on the first Tuesday of June. Thomas Hinckley was again elected governor, and William Bradford deputy governor. The deputies from Plymouth were John Bradford and Isaac Cushman. In August, the same year, another was called to which the same deputies were re-elected. It was now a very desirable object with the colonial govern- ment to procure a charter for the colony, and they appointed the following persons as agents to apply to the English govern- ment for said charter: Sir Henry Ashurst, of England, Rev. 1692] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 159 Increase Mather, and Rev. Ichabod Wiswall, minister of Dux- bury. In February the town of Plymouth voted their accept- ance of the three agents above mentioned, and also voted that it was their desire that the utmost endeavors be made to obtain a charter of his majesty, that we might be and continue a gov- ernment as formerly. It was further voted that they would be held for their proportion of £500, and more if need require, for that purpose, and at the same time agreed to raise their proportion of £200 in advance, to be sent to the gentlemen empowered as agents. It was known to have been in contem- plation by the English government to annex Plymouth colony to that of New York, and there was some misunderstanding among the agents on that subject, but the Rev. Mr. Increase Mather had the credit of preventing that annexation taking place. 1691. — The General Court voted their thanks to Sir H. Ashurst, Rev. Mr. Mather, and Rev. Mr. Wiswall ; and to Sir H. Ashurst a grant of 50 guineas, and Mr. Mather and Mr. Wiswall 25 guineas each for their services. A charter was at length obtained for Massachusetts, which was signed October 7, 1691, and Plymouth was annexed to it. Had the sum of £500 been raised and properly applied, a separate charter would probably have been obtained. The last court of election was holden at Plymouth in June, 1691, the deputies from Plymouth were John Bradford and Isaac Cushman. Mr. Hinckley was re-elected governor, and William Bradford, deputy governor. 1692. — Sir William Phipps, Kt., arrived at Boston, with the new charter, on the 14th of May. He was commissioned governor-in-chief in their majesty's name, William and Mary, and summoned a court on the 8th of June. The new province of Massachusett's Bay proceeded to exercise their charter au- thority, and the amalgamation of the two colonies was soon perfected. By the new charter, Plymouth colony was entitled to four counsellors. Those who were named for this purpose in the charter were Thomas Hinckley, William Bradford, John Walley, and Barnabas Lothrop. The qualifications of electors, according to that warrant, was '' a freehold of 40 shillings per ann. or other property of the value of £40 sterling. The old General Court, however, was summoned, and met at Plymouth on the first Tuesday of July, and exercised their power for the last time by appointing the last Wednesday of the following August to be kept as a day of solemn fasting and humiliation. It appears that some distinguished individuals were dissatisfied with the union of the two colonies, but Governor Hinckley was well reconciled to the measure, and it is clearly understood that 160 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, [1692 the union was at no period a subject of regret with the people generally. Governor Hinckley sustained the office of gover- nor for 12 years, and was in that office when the union took place. He died and was buried at Barnstable, and the follow- ing lines are inscribed on his tomb-stone. " Beneath this stone, erected A. D. 1829, are deposited the mortal remains of Thomas Hinckley. He died A. D. 1706, aged 85 years. History bears witness to his piety, usefulness, and agency in the public transactions of his time. The important offices he was called to fill evidence the esteem in which he was held by the people. He was successively elected an assistant in the government of Plymouth colony, from 1658 to 1681, and governor, except during the interruption by Sir Edmund Andros, from 1681 to the junction of Plymouth colony with Massachusetts, in 1692." The children of Governor Hinckley were one son, Ebene- zer, and five daughters, one of whom, Mary, was married in 1686 to Samuel Prince, of Sandwich, father of the chron- ologist. The first General Court, under the new charter, June 8th, passed an act, declaring that all the laws of the colony of Mas- sachusetts bay and the colony of New Plymouth, not being re- pugnant to the laws of England, nor inconsistent with the charter, should be in force, in the respective colonies, until the 10th of November, 1692, excepting where other provision should be made by act of assembly. Governors of the Colony of Plymouth from 1620 to 1692.* 1620, John Carver, four months and 24 days. 1621, William Bradford. 1633, Edward Winslow. 1634, Thomas Prince. 1635, William Bradford. 1636, Edward Winslow. 1637, William Bradford. 1638, Thomas Prince. 1639, William Bradford. 1644, Edward Winslow, 3 years. 1645, W^illiam Bradford, 31 years. 1657, Thomas Prince, 18 years. 1673, Josiah Winslow, 7 years. 1680 to 1692, Thomas Hinckley, 12 years, including several years interruption by Andros. There was no Lieutenant Governar till 1680. Before that * The first record of the electioa of any governor is in 1633. 1692] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 161 period, the governor, when obliged to be absent, appointed one pro tempore. The names of the lieutenant governors were as follows : Thomas Hinckley, 1680. James Cudworth, 1681. Major William Bradford, 1682 to 1686, & 1689 to 1691. There was no Secretary previous to 1636; but the records appear to have been previously kept by the governors. The hand- writing of Governor Bradford is very legible, and resem- bles a modern hand. The first Secretary was Nathaniel Souther. The second, Nathaniel Morton, from 1645 to 1685. The third, Nathaniel Thomas, 1686. The fourth and last, SaAuel Sprague, who, except the inter- ruption by Andros, continued till the union of the colonies. The Treasurers were William Paddy, in 1636. Thomas Prince, in 1637. Timothy Hatherly, in 1639. Jonathan Atwood, in 1641. Miles Standish, 1644 to 1649. John Aiden, 3 years. Constant Southworth, 1662 to 1678. Afterwards, WilUam Bradford. There was no Sheriff till 1685. Writs and precepts were served originally by an officer, styled Messenger. In 1645, he was styled Marshall, and had the power of appointing depu- ties. Constables, however, were chosen in each town, with power to execute precepts, and collect rates. Upon the divi- sion of the colony into counties, sheriffs were appointed. A coroner was appointed at the beginning of the colony, but the office was soon abolished, and the duty of taking inquisitions devolved on the constables. There was no distinct office of register of deeds, or of wills and inventories, but those duties were performed by the secretary of the colony. This accounts for these records being blended with the other records of the government. Till 1685, the court of assistants was the only judicial court, except that the selectmen of the towns had the power of trying small causes. The assistants also formed a part of the legislature. The following is a correct list of Representatives from the Town of Plymouth in the general court of Plymouth Colony,, from 1639 to 1692. 1639 William Paddy, Man asseh Kempt on, Jr, 1639 John Cook, Jr. John Dunham. 162 HISTORY OF YLYM&UTH, [1692 1640 The same re-elected. John Cook, 1641 John Atwood, John Winslow. Wilham Paddy, 1655 John Rowland, John Jenney, John Dunham, John Rowland. John Cook, 1642 John Doane, Thomas Clark. John Cook. 1656 William Bradford, 1643 The same re-elected. Robert Finney, 1644 The same re-elected. Ephraim Morton. 1645 WilUam Paddy, 1657 ****:*# John Cook, 1658 Robert Finney, Manasseh Kempton, John Rowland, John Dunham, senior. Nathaniel Warren. 1646 John Rowland, 163^ Robert Finney, John Cook, Nathaniel Warren, Manasseh Kempton, John Dunham, John Dunham. Ephraim Morton. 1647 John Rowland, 1660 John Dunham, John Dunham, Robert Finney, William Paddy, Ephraim Morton, John Rust. Manasseh Kempton 1648 The same, except M. 1661 John Dunham, Kempton in the place of Ephraim Morton, Rust. John Rowland, 1649 John Rowland, Nathaniel Warren. John Dunham, 1662 John Dunham, William Paddy, Ephraim Morton, Manasseh Kempton. Robert Finney, 1650 John Rowland, John Morton. John Dunham, 1663 Robert Finney, Manasseh Kempton. Ephraim Morton, 1651 John Rowland, John Rowland, Manasseh Kempton, Nathaniel Warren. Thomas Southworth, 1664 Robert Finney, Thomas Clark. Ephraim Morton, 1652 John Rowland, John Dunham, John Wilson, Nathaniel Warren. John Dunham, 1665 Ephraim Morton, Thomas Southworth. Nathaniel Warren. 1653 John Rowland, 1666 Ephraim Morton, Lieutenant Southworth, John Rowland. John Dunham, 1667 Same as last year. John Cook. 1668 Ephraim Morton, 1654 John Rowland, Samuel Dunham. Lieut. Thomas South- 1669 Ephraim Morton, worth, Robert Finney. 1692] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 16S 1670 Ephraim Morton, John Rowland. 1678 1671 Ephraim Morton^ Robert Finney. 1679 1672 The same. 1673 Ephraim Morton, Mr. S. Crow. 1680 1674 Ephraim Morton, 1681 William Clark. 1675 Lieut. Ephraim Morton, 1682 Sergeant William Harlow. 1683 1676 Ephraim Morton, 1684 Edward Gray. 1685 1677 Edward Gray, 1686 Joseph Howland. Ephraim Morton, Joseph Howland. Ephraim Morton, Edward Gray. Ephraim Morton, William Clark. Ephraim Morton, Joseph Warren. Same as last year. Same re-elected. Same re-elected. Same re-elected. Same re-elected. The following were the Town Clerks of Plymouth to the present time. Nathaniel Morton from 1679 to 1685. Thomas Faunce from 1685 to 1723. - 7 7'^^*-^ John Dyer from 1723 to 1731, and from 1733 to 1738. Gershom Foster 1732. Edward Winslow 1740 and 1741. Samuel Bartlett from 1742 to 17G5. John Cotton 1766. Ephraim Spooner from 1767 to 1818. Thomas Drew from 1818. The proper bounds of Plymouth township, according to the patent, extended southward to the bounds of Sandwich town- ship, and northward to a little brook running from Stephen Tracy's to another little brook falling into black water from the commons left to Duxbury, and westward eight miles up into the lands from any part of the bay or sea; * always provided that the said bounds shall extend so far up into the wood lands as to include the south meadows towards Agawam, lately discovered, and the convenient uplands there-abouts.* The first division of lands made by the settlers was in the year 1623, when they granted to each Free-holder a house lot, of from one to seven acres: in proportion to the number in each family. These lots were located on both sides of the town brook and consisted mostly of cleared land, being the ancient Indian corn land. The second division of land, was agreed on January 3d, 1627, when each free-holder was granted a 20 acre lot, which was mostly laid out near the centre of the town, but some lots were at Eel river, for the convenience of the inhabitants lo- cated there. After the grants of the first 20 acre lots, from 164 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. * [1692 the year 1636 to 1650 lands were granted and laid out in differ- ent parts of the town, in lots from 5 to 100 acres, to freemen, and from 1636 to 1680, lands were granted and laid out in al- most every part of the colony, from 50 to 500 acres, before the incorporation of towns, and most of the salt meadows were also granted in divided lots. In 1640, Jones's river meadow was granted to 8 men. This meadow lies in the northeasterly part of Plympton, and south-easterly part of Kingston. The same year, the south meadows in the southerly part of Carver, were granted to 18 men, and Doten's meadow, situated in the north- westerly part of Carver, was granted to 5 men. In town- meeting, February 9th, 1701, the inhabitants voted, that each and every proprietor of said town shall have a 30 acre lot, out of the common lands belonging to the town. At this time there were 201 proprietors in the township. In 1701-2, it was voted in town-meeting, that a mile and a half from the water side up into the woods, from John Cobb's to Joseph Churchill's land, shall lye common, for the use of the town. The true bounds of this common were from the centre of the town by the shore three quarters of a mile northerly, thence south west a mile and a half into the woods, thence east a mile and a half crossing Billington sea and south pond, thence north easterly a mile and a half to the sea shore, thence north-westerly by the shore three quarters of a mile to the first bounds. In 1702, it was voted that all the cedar swamp throughout the township should be di- vided and laid out, according to the directions following, that is to say, all old proprietors and other inhabitants of the age of 21 years that are free-holders and house keepers born within the town, shall have each of them, a full share. Other inhabitants male children born in the town, and who now reside in it, and have arrived at the age of 21 years, shall have, each, half a share. All such inhabitants as succeed any of the ancient pro- prietors to have a full share, unless such ancient inhabitants have a son come in upon his father's right, and no person shall have more than a single share, though he may have more old proprietor's rights than one. The children of persons who are dead, and under the age of 21 years, shall have the right that was their father's, but no person, upon any pretence, whatever, shall have any share unless he reside now in the town. All the cedar swamps in the ancient town of Plymouth were surveyed, planned, and divided into 39 great lots, in 1703 and 1705, and the proprietors drew lots for their shares. In 1706, at a town- meeting, Plympton was set off from Plymouth and made a town- ship, and the proprietors of both towns were styled the proprietory of Plymouth and Plympton. At a meeting of the proprietors 1692] HISTORY OF TLYMOUTH. 165 Februry 9th, 1709, it was voted that all the common lands not before granted, should be laid out in ten great lots, and the sur- veyors to determine how many shares shall be in each lot. These ten great lots contained more than 30,000 acres. There were 21 proprietors to the first great lot. At a proprietor's meeting in May, 1712, they granted on the petition of some In- dians, 200 acres of proprietors' land at Fresh Pond, in Monument ponds parish, to be under the particular care and direction of the selectmen of the town. The town sold 100 acres of this land in the year 1800. Census of the town of Plymouth at early periods, 1643, Males from 16 to 60 years, capable of bearing arms, 146. 1646. Freemen and townsmen (voters,) 79. 1670. Freemen, 51. 1683-4. Freemen, 55. 1689. Freemen, 75. There is a melancholy grandeur in contemplating the extinc- tion of this novel and primitive government which was founded and continued in existence under circumstances without a paral- lel in the annals of history, for a period of 71 years, presenting to the world an illustrious example of sacrifices cheerfully made in behalf of the highest blessings, — christian and civil liberty, and equality. I cannot omit to introduce here the noble pariot sentiments of the late excellent President Dwight, who expresses himself in the following eloquent language.* ' Plymouth was the first town built in New England by civilized man; and those by whom it was built were inferior in worth to no body of men, whose names are recorded in history during the last seventeen hun- dred years. A kind of venerableness, arising from these facts, attaches to this town, which may be termed a prejudice. Still, it has its foundation in the nature of man, and will never be eradicated either by philosophy or ridicule. No New-England- er, who is willing to indulge his native feelings, can stand upon the rock, where our ancestors set the first foot after their arrival on the American shore, without experiencing emotions very different from those which are excited by any common object * President Dwight, formerly of Yale College, undertook a trav- elling excursion through New England and New York, at the early part of the present century. He estimated the extent of his labors at 15,000 miles. In 1822, he published, in four octavo volumes, the result of his observations. On the subjects of antiquity he dwelt with unceasing enthusiasm, and his volumes are replete with histor- ical, statistical, religious, moral and philosophical information, and anecdotes of unrivalled interest and utility. 166 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1692 of the same nature. No New Englander could be willing to have that rock buried and forgotten. Let him reason as much, as coldly, and as ingeniously as he pleases, he will still regard that spot with emotions wholly different from those which are excited by other places of equal or even superior importance. For myself, I cannot wish this trait in the human character ob- literated. In a higher state of being, where truth is universal- ly as well as cordially embraced, and virtue controls without a rival, this prejudice, if it must be called by that name, will be- come useless, and may, therefore, be safely discarded. But in our present condition every attachment, which is innocent, has its use, and contributes both to fix and to soflen man.' Speak- ing of our ancestors, he says, ' But when I call to mind the his- tory of their sufferings on both sides of the Atlantic, when I re- member their pre-eminent patience, their unspotted piety, their immoveable fortitude, their undaunted resolution, their love to each other, their justice and humanity to the savages and their freedom from all those stains which elsewhere spotted the char- acter even of their companions in affliction, I cannot but view them as illustrious brothers, claiming the veneration and ap- plause of all their posterity. By me the names of Carver, Bradford, Cushman, and Standish, will never be forgotten, until I lose the power of recollection.' * * * ^ The institutions, civil, literary and" religious, by which New England is distinguished on this side the Atlantic, began here. Here the manner of holding lands in free soccage, now univer- sal in this country, commenced. Here the right of suffrage was imparted to every citizen, to every inhabitant not disqualifi- ed by poverty or vice. Here was formed the first establishment of towns, of the local legislature, which is called a town meet- ing, and of the peculiar town executive, styled the selectmen. Here the first parochial school was set up, and the system origi- nated for communicating to every child in the community the knowledge of reading, writing, and arithmetic. Here, also, the first building was erected for the worship of God; the first religious assembly gathered; and the first minister called and settled, by the voice of the church and congregation. On these simple foundations has since been erected a structure of good order, peace, liberty, knowledge, morals and religion, with which nothing on this side the Atlantic can bear a remote com- parison. END OF P.iRT FIRST. 1693 & 96] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 167 PART II. Having closed the first part of our history, and shown that the primitive colonial charter and government were abrogated in 1692, we now commence a new epoch, and our future details will pertain to the town as a constituent of the British Province of Massachusetts Bay, and after our Independence in 1776 a prouder and more glorious designation, the United States of America. By the new charter the Province embraced the whole of old Massachusetts colony, to which were added the colony of Plymouth, the Province of Maine, the Province of Nova- Scotia, and all the country between the Province of Maine and Nova-Scotia ; also Elizabeth island and the islands of Nan- tucket and Martha's Vineyard. The representative from Plymouth to the General Court in 1693 was John Nelson, and in 1694 William Shurtleff. 1696. — A Frenchprivateer, fitted out atBourdeaux, cruising on the American coast, was wrecked in Buzzard's Bay. The crew were carried prisoners to Boston ; the surgeon, Dr. Fran- cis LeBaron, came to Plymouth, and having performed a surgi- cal operation, and the town being at that time destitute of a physician, the selectmen petitioned the executive, Lieut. Gover- nor Stoughton, for his liberation, that he might settle in this town. This was granted, and he married Mary Wilder, and practised physic here during life, but died in 1704, at the early age of 36 years. Dr. LeBaron did not relinquish the Roman Catholic Religion, and was so strongly attached to the cross-, that he never retired to rest without placing it on his breast. This constantly reminded the people of a religion which they abhorred, and which they were scarcely willing to tolerate in a single instance. He made a donation of ninety acres of wood land to the town. His sen, Lazarus, studied medicine, and en- joyed an extensive course of practice in Plymouth and its vicin- ity, and died lamented in 1773, aged 75 years. Two of his sons, Joseph and Lazarus, were also physicians, both of whom, after residing a short period in the West Indies returned to their na- tive town, where they died, as did three other of his sons, viz. Bartlett, WilUam and Isaac. The only surviving son is Rev. Lemuel LeBaron, minister of a church and society at Matta- poiset, (Rochester,) where he was ordained in 1772. From this stock, all that bear the name of LeBaron in this country are descended, and they are numerous and respectable. 168 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1697, 98, 1701 The town agreed to pay to Rev. Mr. Cotton £75 in silver money for his salary the present year, with which he was well satisfied. They agreed also to pay the school-master £33, and to the French Doctor for cunng Hunter's wife, £5. 1697. — March 24. Died, Thomas Clark, aged 98 years. It is a well received tradition that this ancient man was the mate of the Mayflower, and the one who first landed on the Island in Plymouth harbor which bears his name. Little is known of the life and circumstances of the mate of the Mayflower; his name is not among the signers of the original compact, nor mention- ed among the first settlers. It may therefore be conjectured, that he was considered merely as an officer of the ship, and that he returned to England in her with Captain Jones, and subsequently came over and settled in this town. We find his name among those who received allotments of land in 1624; and he also shared in the division of cattle in 1627. He resid- ed at Eel River, and it is supposed that his family were among the sufferers in the house of William Clark, when attacked by a party of savages, March 12, 1676. He being himself absent at meeting escaped, while eleven others were massacred and his son tomahawked, who ever after wore a silver plate on his head from which he was called silver head Tom. See page 390. Numerous lineal descendants from Thomas Clark now reside at Eel river in this town, and in other parts of the Old Colony. There is a handsome China mug whose pedigree is traced through the Clark family back to Thomas Clark, which had been presented to the cabinet of the Pilgrim Society by Betsey B. Morton a descendant, and also a leathern pocket- book with the initials T. C. impressed on its cover, presented by Amasa Clark. These relicts afford additional evidence that the mate of the Mayflower died in this town, and that his ashes rest in the grave in our burial place designated by a stone with the following inscription. Here lyes ye body of Mr. Thomas Clark, aged 98 years. Departed this life March 24, 1697. 1693, — The town agreed with Abraham Jackson to ring the bell and sweep the meeting-house and see to locking the doors and fastening the windows for one year, for one pound and ten shillings. 1701, — A canal or water course, was cut, to convey the water from South Pond to the head of Eel river, about half a mile distant, the object being to form an artificial passage for alewives from the sea into the pond; but the project proved un- successful. Elder Faunce was the leader in this project, and as the water course crosses the road, we are, in passing, re- minded of the venerable man whom we delight to bring to re- collection. 1702-11] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 169 1702-3. Liberty was granted to Major John Bradford to milk the pine trees upon the town's common, from the head of Blackwater, and from Duxbury bounds to Jones's river; he had liberty to employ two strangers, lately come from the westward, upon said commons within said limits, ' upon condition that said Bradford doth give in bonds to the selectmen to secure the town from any charge that may fall on said town by said persons, and do also instruct any of the inhabitants in what skill said strangers hath in milking the pines so far as they are capable of instruct- ing in said art. This year, ministerial lands, a burial ground, and a training field, were laid out, at a place called the upper society. The south part was then called Samson's country, from a noted Sachem who resided there. 1706. — Plympton set off from Plymouth. The north western parish of Plymouth was incorporated November 26, 1695. At a town-meeting March 1706-7, it was voted that the to wn^ con- sent that the north parish be a township, in compliance with their petition to the town, with this proviso, that all real estate now belonging to, or which shall be improved by any in the old town, either by himself or tenant during their living here, shall berated here, notwithstanding there being a separate town, and so the like of any estate that belongeth to any of them that lyeth in the old town of Plymouth, 1707. — The town was presented at the quarter sessions held at Plymouth on the third Tuesday of December, for their neglect in not keeping the bridge over Jones's river in repair; the town in full meeting voted that it is a great burden and charge to maintain two bridges over the said river when one might answer, that application be made to the county court, and to the court of the county of Barnstable, who are equally concerned in keeping the said bridge in repair, that a bridge might be built higher up the river, and they made choice of James Warren and Nathaniel Thomas, Jr. as the town agents, for the purpose of negotiating the business.* 1710-11. — March 21st, in town-meeting, it was voted, that all the land lying to the northward of the range of the land be- tween Samuel Harlow's and John Barnes's, that is to say, to run up the same point of compass said range .of Harlow's and * Jones^'s river crosses the public road at the south part of Kings- ton, and, as is supposed, received its name from Captain Jones of the Mayflower. In exploring the neighboring lands and streams, this river was discovered ', at which time, it is probable, the name which it bears was given to it in compUment to the captain. As the county of Barnstable was, for many years, included in the Old Colony of Plymouth, it was equally concerned in maintaining the roads and bridges throughout the colony. ^ 170 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1711-16 Barnes's to the top of the hill, and all the land to the northward of that range shall be for a perpetual common or training place, iiever to be granted any part thereof, but lay perpetually for the public and common benefit. 1711. — A plan for forming an oyster bed in Plymouth harbor Was projected by a company of thirty-one persons, whose names are on record. Oysters were procured and deposited in a cer- tain place, deemed the most eligible, with the hope that they* might be thus propagated; but it was ascertained by the experi- ment, that the flats are left dry too long for their habit, which requires that they be covered at all times by water. 1715.-^March 21, at a town-meeting it was proposed to build a cart bridge over Jones's river, near Jacob Cook's. Ma- jor John Bradford proposed to give towards the building said bridge what stone were on his land that were suitable for said work„and set his hand thereunto. Jacob Cook likewise offered that those that did the said work should have the stones they could get off his land, in case they would take as many loads of cobbling stones as of binding stones for said work; Jacob Mitch- ell also made the same offer. The town voted to build a cart bridge over the said river, and chose agents to have the work executed. This year died James Warren, Esq. He was taken suddenly ill as he was going to the general assembly. He was a gentleman of great integrity and capacity, was sheriff of the county, and held other responsible offices. He left a son, James Warren, of Plymouth. 1716. — Sundry inhabitants of the north part of the town near Jones's river, petitioned to be set off a town, which was nega- tived by a large majority, and Major John Bradford and others were chosen to appear in the general court to show the town's reasons for opposing the petition. In 1717, they renewed their request, and being 48 families, they were set off as a separate parish, by the name of Jones's river parish. March 1. — The town agreed with John Bradford, Uo take care and keep in good repair all hghways throughout the town- ship of Plymouth, and to save the said town harmless from all trouble that may arise through the defect of any of the high- ways in said town, for the space of seven years, commencing from the day of date abovesaid, for twelve pence a man to be raised by rate upon the inhabitants of said town that are of able body, by law, to work at the highways, and is to be paid to said Bradford, his heirs or assigns yearly and every year during the said term of seven years above mentioned.' Mr. Nathaniel Thomas and Mr. Abiel Shurtleff were chosen \o meet agents from Barnstable, to agree in what manner to re- build the bridge over Eel river. And the same persons were a 1718-24] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 171 committee to inquire into the reasons why the heirs of Dr. Fran^ cis LeBaron have delayed to convey to the town the ninety acres of land which the Doctor gave to the towq^ for the vise of the poor. 1718. — Complaints being made that the people suffer greatly by means of their corn being ground at the nn\\ by a young lad incapable of the business, it was voted that Captain Church, the owner of the mill, be informed, that unless he remove the cause of complaint, and see that the business of grinding be properly attended to, the town will grant liberty to son^e other person to set up another mill on the town's privilege. 1721. — The town having suffered great distress by the small pox, and that fatal disease being now in the town, a committee of twelve persons was chosen to act and advise with the select-, men to prevent its spreading. 1722. — Haveland Torrey was legally chosen constable in full town-meeting, but he declared in the meeting that he would neither serve the town in that office, nor pay his fine for refus- ing, as the law directs. There having been several instances of such refusal, the town now made choice of Captain Ephrain^ Morton to prosecute the said Torrey at the next court of quarter sessions, for his refusing to serve the town. And the next year, Haveland Torrey, James Warren, Eleazer Churchill and Nicholas Drew refused to serve in the office of constable, and all paid their fine of five pounds in the meeting, as the law re- quired. 1722-3. — February. Under this date the following was re- corded by Elder Faunce: -This day was a dreadful storm, which raised the tide three or four feet higher than had been known aforetime.' This is the storm of which Cotton Mather gave an account to the Royal Society; says Mr. Samuel Davis, it was on the 24th of February. In the year 1770, and again in 1785, were similar storms and tides, when the water was level nearly with the locks of the store doors on the wharves, and a quantity of salt and other goods were damaged. 1724. — The following is recorded ^n the town's book: To the Hon. Isaac Lothrop, Esq. Whereas the Province law makes provision that all births and deaths shall be registered by the town clerk in the several towns within said Province, these are to inform your honor that Josiah Sturtevant, of Plymouth, in the county of Plymouth, in New England, had a child born, in or about the month of April last past, and the said Sturtevant neglecteth to give notice thereof, as according to the directions of the law. I do, therefore, pray your honor to give forth ^ y(^xxmt \o cau|se said Sturtevant to 172 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1725-28 appear before your honor, that he may be dealt withall as ac- cording to the directions of the law. John Dyer, Toivn Clerk. Plymouth, Dec. 30, 1724. 1725. — Kingston set off from Plymouth. The north or Jones's river parish renewed their petition to be set off as a town. It was negatived, and three agents were chosen to give in their reasons to the general court for their refusal. This petition was made a subject of animated discussion, which was continued at several town-meetings; and at length the following persons were chosen agents in behalf of the town: Josiah Cotton, Esq., John Watson, Esq., Mr. John Dyer, John Murdock, Esq., and Deacon John Foster. They were directed by the town to op- pose to the utmost in their power the prayer of the petitioners being granted; but subsequently they were desired to meet a committee from the general court at Jones's river to determine the question. But the separation was strenuously opposed in town-meeting on the 9th of May, 1726. In that year, however, the point was decided, and Jones's river parish was incorporated by the general court into a town called Kingston. In town-meeting, December 25, 1727, a petition was present- ed from the town of Kingston requesting the town of Plymouth would repair wholly or in conjunction with them the bridge over Jones's river, which was rejected. In the same year, the town voted that an alms-house be built for the benefit of the poor of the town, and a committee was chosen to advise with the select- men about building the said house. 1726. — March 13, voted in the town-meeting, that a reward of ten shillings shall be given to any person belonging to the town, who shall kill a wild cat within the township; and John Watson, Esq. and Mr. John Murdock were appointed to receive the heads, and give orders on the treasurer for the payment of the money. The next year twelve pounds were paid for wild cats' heads. 1727. — In town-meeting the selectmen with Mr. Watson, Mr. Murdock, Mr. John Barnes and Mr. Stephen Churchill were chosen a committee to provide a suitable place upon the com- mon to erect a gallows for the execution of the condemned prisoner, Elizabeth Colson, a mulatto woman, for murdering her infant child; and she was executed in May. 1728. — May 13th, voted that the town will take their propor- tionable part of the sixty thousand pounds lately emitted by the general court, which is five hundred and eighty three pounds and five shillings, and that it be let out to the inhabitants of the town, on personal security to the trustees with a sufl[icient surety, 1729-35] ttisTORV 0$* ^LVmOutH. 173 and to have it at 6 per cent, per ann. No person to have more than 30 nor less than 20 pounds. The money to be let out ac- cording to the discretion of the trustees, who are to be allowed ten shillings for letting out, and twenty for receiving in every hundred pounds. 1729. — It was voted that every householder shall be provided with a ladder reaching from the ground to the ridge-pole of his house, and have a hogshead full of water in his yard, in case of fire. 1730. — The alewive fishery at the brook in this town, had long been considered as of considerable importance, and proper regulations were from time to time provided to prevent the destruction of the fish. This year it was ordered, that, in order to prevent obstructions to the ale wives going up the pond to spawn, no person shall take more fish from the town brook, or Agawam river, than are absolutely necessary for their fami- lies' use, and no person to take any for a market, on a penalty of 20 shillings for each barrel. A committee was appointed to see that families were reasonably provided for, and the poor supplied. 1731. — November 9. The inhabitants of Monument Ponds petitioned to be set off* as a parish, and after due consideration, it was voted December 9th, that the inhabitants of Monument Ponds be a separate pari&h, and their bounds were surveyed and described accordingly. A mortal fever prevailed in Plymouth; there was an instance of eight in the connexion of one family who died at that time. 1731-2. — John Watson, Esq. expired September 9th, aged- about 43 years. He was a useful and respectable inhabitant of the town, transacting much business, and affording employ- ment to a large number of poor people. He was supposed to possess the largest estate of any person in the county, and was charitable to the poor and destitute. Mr. John Watson, son of the above, died in January, 1753, at the early age of 37 years; and his wife having died before, they left three orphan children, two sons and a daughter. One of' the sons was the late John Watson, Esq., the second President of the Pilgrim Society. The town voted, this year, to choose a committee to procure a new bell, the old one being cracked. It was agreed that the bell should weigh about 300 pounds, and at the meeting, John Murdock, Esq. offered to give the town 50 pounds weight in the bell, in addition to what the town had voted. The following mark of a run-away whale was recorded by Benjamin Rider. The said whale was struck by Joseph Sachemus, Indian, at Monument Ponds, November 25th, 1735. There were several 15* 174 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1738-42 irons put into her; one was a backward iron on her left side, and two irons on her right side. The iron on the left side was broke about six inches from the socket. She carried away one short warp with a drag to it, and a long warp without a buoy; one of the drag staves was made with white birch, Slc. 1738. — May 8th. The inhabitants of Agawam, within the township of Plymouth, petitioned to be a separate parish, which was granted, and at a town-meeting, March 1st, 1738-9, it was voted that the plantation at Agawam, with all the inhabitants thereon, be set off from this town, and be a township, adjoining the easterly part of Rochester, according to their purchase deed from the town of Plymouth. This is now Wareham. The town voted that three pence per head, shall be paid out of the town Treasury for every full grown rat that may be kill- ed in the town, three pence for every black bird, and six pence for every crow. And in 1744, a vote passed, that every male head of a family shall procure ten grown rats' heads, or ten black birds' heads, and each male head of a family who shall fail, shall be assessed the sum of six pence, old tenor, per head, for each head that he shall fall short of said number, and the assessors are ordered to add each delinquent's fine to his next town tax. A man named Crimble was indicted at Plymouth for forging a bond, but for want of evidence, was only convicted for a cheatj and was ordered to wear said bond, with a piece of paper over it, with the word cheat written thereon; and to stand on the court- house steps half an hour. This year square-toed shoes went out of fashion, and buckles began to be worn. A blacksmith while working at his forge was sportively beset by a young man, and the smith unfortunately struck him with a hot iron, which wounded the jugular vein, (it must have been the carotid artery,) so that he bled to death in six minutes. 1741. — On the Sabbath, March 30th, the town of Plymouth was alarmed during divine service, by Joseph Wampum, a na- tive, who gave information that eight Spaniards had landed at his house, situated four miles distant from Buzzard's Bay. War existed at that time between England and Spain. This informa- tion, therefore, justly excited an universal panic. The drums beat to arms, and the militia were ordered out, but it proved to be a false alarm, and was ever after called Wampum's war. 1742. — The General Court granted a sum of money to the town of Plymouth for the purpose of erecting a battery or breast work, and the town chose a committee consisting of 18 persons, to determine and report as to the most suitable place for the said battery. The committee reported in favor of Cole's hill, and the town accepted the report. 1745-48] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 175 1745. — This year a full company of soldiers, of which Sylva- nus Cobb was captain, ^as raised in Plymouth for the expedi- tion against Louisbourg; and it was remarked that they were the first for that service who appeared at Boston^ whence they embarked and served with credit on that memorable occasion. Ca.ptain Cobb continued in public service in Nova Scotia, and, in 1758, was selected by general Monckton to conduct general Wolfe to a reconnoitre of the fortress, previous to its capture. As they sailed into the harbor, no one was allowed to stand on deck, but Cobb at the helm, and Wolfe in the fore-sheet making observations, while the shot were flying thick around. Gene- ral Wolfe observed that they had approached as near as he wish- ed for his purpose, but Cobb made yet another tack, and, as they hove about, Wolfe exclaimed with approbation, 'Well, Cobb! I shall never doubt but you will carry me near enough.' Captain Cobb returned to Plymouth, and afterwards removed to Nova Scotia, and was employed on the expedition to Havana in 1762, where he died. 1748. — The town voted to give JE300 old tenor* more than their proportion towards building a new court house, provided the town may have the use of the said house for the purpose of transacting the town's business so long as the house shall stand; and at a subsequent meeting it was agreed to add d£700 old tenor to the above sum, for the same purpose, on the condition that the house be immediately built, and that the town shall have the benefit as above. Accordingly, in 1759, a court house was erected in Plymouth, near the meeting house. It was planned by the late Judge Oliver, of Middleborough. The front door was originally at the east end, with a handsome flight of steps. When the door was altered, a market place was made under the cast end of the house. When the new brick court house was erected, in 1818, the town of Plymouth purchased of the coun- ty, the old court house, which is now used for a town house. Died, in this town, greatly lamented, Isaac Lothrop, Esq., at the age of forty -three. He was one of the justices of the Court of Common Pleas, and his death occasioned a general gloom in the town and throughout the county. At the opening of the next court. May 15, Nicholas Sever, Esq., chief justice, and Peter Oliver, Esq., one of the justices of the said court, both ex- pressed from the bench the grief and sorrow with which the court and bar were affected by the melancholy event, and ob- served that colonel Lothrop was held in profound regard as a * The difference in value between sterling and the Boston old tenor, is as one to ten ; one shilling sterling being equal to ten shil- lings old tenor. 176 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 1755-8 judge, and was greatly respected for his moral and christian virtues. He possessed a large estate, and transacted extensive business in the mercantile line, in which he sustained an honor- able and upright character. Few men have been more affection- ately beloved, nor any whose death could diffuse more heartfelt sorrow among the poor, and in every social circle. The fol- lowing inscription is found on his tomb-stone: Had virtue^s charms the power to save Its faithful votaries from the grave, This stone had ne'er possessed the fame Of being marked with Lothrcp's name. The children of Mr. Lothrop and Priscilla his wife, were, Isaac, born 1735, died 1808. Nathaniel, 1737, died 1828. Thomas, 1739, died 1794. Caleb, 1742, died abroad 1766. Priscilla, 1747, married Mr. Burr, died 1810. An excise act, laying a duty on wine and spirits consumed in private families, was passed by the legislature, and governor Shirley suspended his assent; for which an address of thanks was voted to him by the town. 1755. — Nov. 18, there was a terrible earthquake in America, the shock was the most violent that was ever kuDwn in the country. A spring in the northwest part of the town, in the pub- lic road, was removed from the east to the west side of the road, where it still continues an overflowing stream. Tincker^s rock spring, was its ancient name; the rock is now blown up. This is the well known spring about half a mile on the Kingston road, near Nelson'^s house. John Murdock, Esq. was a wealthy and respectable merchant in this town. He was from Scotland, and married here about 1686, and, again, a second wife, about the year 1719, Phebe Morton, a daughter of John Morton, of Mid- dleborough. An only daughter (Phebe) of this marriage be- came the wife of William Bowdoin, of Boston, a brother of governor Bowdoin. An intimacy subsisted many years between Mr. Murdock and the father of governor Bowdoin, who was in the habit of making him an annual visit at Plymouth. Mr. Murdock, in his will, dated February 7, 1756, gave to the town of Plymouth £100 lawful money for the use of the poor of said town, and £100 for the use of the schools of said town, and also £100 to the third parish of said town, providing in the will that the capital of each of these sums should not be lessened, but always kept good, the interest to be appropriated as above; and if these directions should not be observed, then the money to revert to his son, John Murdock, his heirs, &c. 1758-60] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ^'^^ 1758.—In 1758, the town chose a committee to devise means of paving the public streets in Plymouth, but the project failed of success. Hod.— Bridge over the town brook. The bridge over the town brook at the shore, now Water Street, was, till this year, only a swing bridge for foot passengers; but the town now resolved, ^ that there shall be a substantial bridge and cart cause-way, 20 feet wide, and high enough to be out of the reach of ordmary tides, and that the town will grant all the town's land, beach, dockage, and flats, in that place, to any person or persons who will build a good bridge over the said brook, and keep and maintain it, in good repair, for the convenience of the town forever; and that in default herein, it shall be lawful for the said town to enter upon the said granted premises, as in their own right, and hold the same as fully and completely as though no such grant had been made.' A committee, consisting of Thomas Foster, James Warren, George W^atson, Joseph Bart- lett, and James Hovey, were appointed, and authorised to tran- sact this business in behalf of the town. March 1762, the town accepted the bridge and wharf built by Thomas Foster and his associates, and directed the committee to give a deed of con- veyance of the land, &c. above specified, under the restrictions and limitations mentioned. In May, 1762, David Turner, Na- thaniel Foster, and Thomas Davis gave, each of them, a piece of land to the town, 20 feet wide, near the bridge, to be kept and used for the accommodation of the public, so long as the bridge and wharf shall be kept as a public road. < The names of the two following gentlemen deserve to he re- corded in this place. The Hon. Josiah Cotton was son of John Cotton, some time minister of Plymouth, and grandson of John Cotton, minister in Boston. He was born in Plymouth, Jan. 8th, 16.79, and graduated at Harvard College in 1698, and be- came a teacher of a school in Marblehead, in October follow- ing, where he preached his first sermon, September, 1702. In 1704, he discontinued preaching and returned to his native town, Avhere he was a school instriicter for seven years. This res- pectable man held, at different times, several civil offices in the county, as clerk of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas, Justice of the same court, Register of Probate, and Register of Deeds. He was also occasionally employed as a preacher to the Indians in Plymouth and the vicinity, having acquired a com- petent acquaintance with their language. He was the author of the Supplement to the New England'sMemorial. He left a Diary, which be began soon after he left college, and continued nearly to the time of his decease. It is in the possession of his grandson, Rossetter Cotton, Esq. the present Register of 178 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1761-5 Deeds for the county of Plymouth. It contains many historical facts, which it would be desirable to have extracted and pre- sented to the Massachusetts Historical, or to the Pilgrim Soci- ety, for preservation. Mr. Cotton died in 1756, aged 76 years, leaving a numerous progeny. He possessed a strong and sound mind, and was fervently pious, and indefatigable in the dis- charge of all the duties of his various and honorable stations in life: John Cotton, Esq. son of the above, was born April, 1712, graduated at Harvard College, 1730, and was ordained minister at Halifax, county of Plymouth, October, 1736. From an in- disposition, which greatly affected his voice, he requested and received his dismission in 1756. He succeeded his father in the office of Register of Deeds, which he held until his decease, which took place Nov. 4th, 1789, in the 78th year of his age. He was considered an able theologian, and his pulpit perform- ances were much esteemed by judicious auditors. He was the author of the valuable Account of Plymouth Church, appended to the sermon preached at the ordination of Rev. Chandler Robbins, in 1760. This account was republished in the 4th vol. of the Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, and has been resorted to by the author of the present work. — He published, also, seasonable warnings to the churches of New England, and tracts on Infant Baptism, and several occa- sional sermons. He was chosen by the town, delegate to the convention for forming a constitution for the Commonwealth, in the year 1780, and was one of the committee for the county to draft the constitution. He left sons and daughters. Josiah, the eldest, was the minister at Wareham, and afterwards a magis- trate and clerk of the court for the county of Plymouth. He died April, 1819, aged 71, leaving one son, who is a physician in the state of Ohio, and one daughter who is the wife of Isaac L. Hedge, Esq. of this town. Two other sons of John Cotton, are Rossetter, the present Register of Deeds for the county, and Ward, minister of Boylston. His son, John, was lost at sea in the year 1800, leaving a widow and two daughters. 1761. — March 12th. Two shocks of an earthquake were felt throughout New England. 1764. — This year, the people in the New England Provinces began to manifest considerable alarm at the measures of the British administration, founded on their claims to make laws, and levy taxes on the people without their consent. 1665. — A Stamp Jict having passed the British Parliament, the greatest excitement was created throughout the American colonies. The inhabitants of this town participated in the pa- triotic spirit, and resolved to unite in the general opposition t» 1767] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 179 the obnoxious measure.* In town meeting, October 14th, it was voted to instruct their representative to the general court, to represent the feelings and sentiments of the inhabitants as most decidedly opposed to any tax in the form of stamps or stamp acts, and to exert his influence against the execution of the stamp act. The instructions teem with patriotic ardor, calling to mind that they inhabit the spot where our ancestors founded an asylum for liberty. *We likewise,' say the instruc- tions, ' to avoid disgracing the memories of our ancestors, as well as the reproaches of our own consciences and the curses of posterity, recommend it to you to obtain, if possible, in the honorable house of representatives in this province, full and explicit assertions of our rights, and to have the same entered on their public records, that all generations yet to come may be convinced that we have not only a just sense of our rights and liberties, but that we never (with submission to Divine Providence) will be slaves to any power on earth.' The stamp act was repealed January 16th, 1766. The town on this passed a vote of thanks to the town of Boston for their patriotic mea- sures in asserting and defending the precious rights and liber- ties of our common country, and the following is the answer to the Plymouth address. ^Boston, March lOth, 1767. — The inhabitants of the town of Boston, legally assembled in Faneuil Hall, have received with singular pleasure your respectful address of the 16th of Janu^ ary last. The warm sentiments of public virtue which you therein express is a sufficient evidence, that the most ancient town in New England, to whose predecessors this province, in a particular manner, is so greatly indebted for their necessary aid in its original settlement, still retain the truly noble spirit of our renowned ancestors. When we recollect the ardent love of religion and liberty which inspired the breasts of those worthies, which induced them at a time, when tyranny had laid its oppressive hand on church and state in their native country, to forsake their fair possessions, and seek a retreat in this dis- tant part of the earth; when we reflect upon their early care to lay a solid foundation for learning, even in a wilderness, as the surest, if not the only means of preserving and cherishing the principles of liberty and virtue, and transmitting them to us, their posterity, our mind is filled with deep veneration, and we bless and revere their memory. When we consider the immense cost and pains they were at in subduing, cultivating, *By this act a, ream of bail bonds stamped would cost £100; a ream of common printed ones before was £15. A ream of stamped policies of insurance was £190; of common ones without stamps £20. 180 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1769 and settling this land, with the utmost peril of their lives, and the surprising increase of dominion, strength and riches, which have accrued to Great Britain by their expense and labor, we confess we feel an honest indignation to think there ever should have been any among her sons so ungrateful, as well as unjust and ciuel, as to seek their ruin. Instances of this too fre- quently occur in the past history of our country. The names of Randolph, Andros and others, are handed down to us with infamy; and the times in which we live, even these very times, may furnish some future historian with a catalogue of those who look upon our rising greatness with an envious eye; and while we and our sister colonies have been exerting our grow- ing strength in the most substantial service to the mother coun- try, by art and intrigue have wickedly attempted to seduce her into measures to enslave us. If then, gentlemen, the inhabit- ants of this metropolis have discovered an invariable attach- ment to the principles of liberty, when it has been invaded ; if they have made the most vigorous exertions for our country, when she has been threatened with the loss of every thing that is dear: if they have used their utmost endeavors, that she may be relieved from those difficulties with which she is at this time embarrassed: if they have taken the warrantable and legal measures to prevent that misfortune, of all others the most to be dreaded, the execution of tJie stamp act; and as a ne- cessary means of preventing it, have made any spirited appli- cation for opening the custom-houses and courts of justice; if at the same time they have borne their testimony against outra- geous tumults and illegal proceedings, and given any examples of the love of peace and good order, — next to the conscious- ness of having done their duty, is the satisfaction of meeting with the approbation of any of their fellow countrymen. That the spirit of our venerable forefathers may revive, and be dif- fused through every community in this land; that liberty both civil and religious, the grand object in view, may still be felt, enjoyed, and vindicated by the present generation, and the fair inheritance transmitted to our latest posterity, is the fervent wish of this metropolis. ^ San^uel Adams. Signed < John Ruddock. ( John Hancock.' 1769. — On the 12tk day of May there was a snow storm of twelve hours continuance. Old Colony Club. — This year seven respectable individuals, inhabitants of Plymouth, instituted a social club which they style John Dunham, ) Robert Finney, 5 Ephraim Morton, j Thomas Faunce, George Morton, " Nathaniel Wood, Thomas Clark, ' Thomas Foster, ) John Atwood, Haviland Torrey Thomas Clark, Thomas Foster ^ Joseph Bartlett, > John Torrey, ) Willi^ji Crombie, Ephraim Spooner, Jonathan Diman, John Bishop, Lemuel Drew, William P. Ripley, Rosseter Cotton, Ichabod Morton, chosen in Ley den, 1620. I to about 1630. chosen about chosen ■!. 1630. 1667. 1686. 1694. 1716. 1727. 1745. 1776. 1784. 1784. 1797. 1812. 1813. 1822. 1831. APPENDIX. The foregoing pages will be found to contain a just display ^ of the character sustained by our puritan fathers, and show that their sacrifices, their disinterested patriotism, their exemplary- integrity, and their reverence tor a pure religion were without a parallel in the records of history. It was, with them, a pri- mary object to avoid all cause of war with the natives, but they were compelled in their own defence to a cruel warfare with Philip and his allies, and were in imminent danger of a total extermination, within the first half century of their settlement. The natives, from a jealousy of encroachments, became the ag- gressors by acts of enormities and crimes. The colonists ne^f^* possessed themselves of the Indian's land, without payino- a fair and full price for what they bought. (See page 133.) After the war, the Englisli, it is true, availed themselves of the right of conquest; but lands were allotted to the surviving Indians, who remained in the country, amply sufficient for their support. Should it be inquired, what is the character and prosperity of the descendants of the puritans; it may be replied, that every community having religion and justice for its basis will be pros- perous and happy. The state of society in the ancient town is, in common with the whole of the old colony of Plymouth, re-*^ markably peaceable, orderly, and happy. The names of our ancestors are embalmed in our bosoms, and are objects of con- secrated memory. 'Their religious and school institutions are deemed by all good men sufficiently important to be appreciated as their worth and character deserve. We venerate the memory of the pilgrim fathers for their re- ligion, their patriotism and their institutions. They were, it is true, deeply imbued with the principles of Calvin, and were, in some measure, tinctured with the spirit of bigotry. Liberal christians of the present day have abandoned many tenets, which our fathers conscientiously maintained, and are zealous advocates for the exercise of mutual charity and brotherly love, that heavenly grace that beams from the breast of the father of mercies, and which gives joy to good men and to angels. Few crimes or aggravated violations of law have been known 300 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. in our limits. No native white inhabitant of this town has ever suffered death by the hand of the law, nor any one, it is be- lieved, in the Old Colony. Nor has there been any instance of duelling in our territories, since that in 1621, noticed in page thirty-eight. We conjure every citizen to hold to his integrity, and resolve sternly to resist the influence of the emissaries from the old world, who would gladly subvert our free institu- tions and enthral the minds of the rising generation in the dark clouds of corruption and ignorance. It has been the anxious desire of all nations in all ages of the world, that genealogies from their original foundations should be correctly recorded, and transmitted to future genera- tions. Posterity love to trace back their progenitors in an un- interrupted line to the earliest periods. In no instance do we recognize a people who have a more peculiar interest in the transactions of their ancestors than the descendants of the puri- tan fathers of New England; nor are the descendants of any people furnished with more abundant data for the purpose of tracing the founders of a nation. When the Saxons came over ihd settled in England, the British sirnames were emerged, and all record of the original inhabitants by their sirnames vanished from the page of history. But in our country the reverse of this is our happy destiny. By far the largest proportion of our sirnames are those which were precious to our puritan fathers, and ever will be to their posterity. The spreading branches of the genealogical tree from the stock of the pilgrims will ever command admiration and respect, and it would be exceedingly gratifying could we be able to delineate the descendants through their generations by family genealogies; but although so early as 1646, the court ordered that in each town a clerk should be appointed whose duty it should be to record all marriages, births and deaths, yet no one was appointed in this town till 1679, and the records prior to that time were very imperfect. The following are the names found among the first comers and early settlers in this town. Those with this * mark died the first winter. Adams, Alden, *Allerton, Atherton, Atwood, Bangs, Bassett, Beale, Blossom, Bompasse, (Bumpus) Carver, Chauncey, *Chilton, *Clarke, Conor, Cooke, APPENDIX. 301 Beames, Billington, Bradford, Brewster, Briggs, Brown, Cooper, Cotton, Cudworth, Cushman, Crackston, De La Noye, (Delano,) Doane, Dotey, (Doten) Dunham, Eaton, ^English, Faunce, Fallowell, FJavell, *Fletcher, Foord, Finney, Fuller, Gardener, *Goodman, Goram, (Gorham,) Gray, Hanbuvy, Harlow, Hatherly, Hicks,*— Hilton, Hinkley, Hopkins, Howland, Higgins, Jackson, Jenney, Kempton, Knowles, Latham, ^Margeson, Masterson, ^Maiton, Morgan, Morton, *Mullins, Deane, Nelson, Nicolas, (Nicholas) Paddy, Palmer, Pitts, Paddock, Prence, (Prince) ^Priest, Rayner, Rogers, Robinson, Standish, Starie, (Stacy) Sparrow, Smalley, Snow, Southworth, Samson, Simonson, (Simmons) Steward, (Stewart) Smith, ShurLlefF, Sprague,-^ Soul, *Tilley, Tench, '^Turner, *Tinker, Thomas, Warren, Winslow, Watson, ^White, Wrioht, W^illet, *Williams. 26 302 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. Free Schools. — Our ancestors were well apprised of the great importance of school establishments for the education of the rising generation. So early as February 11th, 1635, we find among the court orders the following: ' Benjamin Eaton,, with his mother's consent, is put to Bridget Fuller, bemg to keep him at school two years, and employ him after in such service as she saw good, and heshall be fit for.' We find no further notice of this subject tillJune, 1662, when the court recommended to the consideration of the several towns, some preparations for schools; and in 1663, it was enacted by the court, 'That the several townships in the jurisdiction, ought to take into their serious consideration, that there may be a school-master in each town to teach the children in reading and writing.' In 1668, John Morton, who was a nephew of the Secretary, offered to teach children and youth of the town to read and write and cast accounts, on reasonable considerations. In 1670, a grant was made by the government of the colony, ' of all such profits as might or should annually accrue to the colony, from time to time, for fishing with nets or seines at Cape Cod, for mackerel, bass, or herrings, to be improved for and towards a free school in some town of this jurisdiction, provided a beginning were made within one year of the grant.' And in August, 1671, John Morton appeared at town-meeting, and renewed his proposal to erect and keep a town school, which was accepted. In the following year, the court declared the school in Plymouth enti- tled to the profits of the Cape Cod fishery, and appointed Thomas Hinckley, steward of said school, to take charge of its funds. In the same year, 1672, the profits and benefits of the Agawam and Sippican lands were appropriated by the town to the main- tenance of the Free School, then began in town, and not to be estranged from that end.' This was the first Free School or- dained by law in New England. We are not, however, un- mindful of a prior law in the neighboring colony of Massachu- setts, in 1647, for a similar purpose. But that law did not in re- ality ordain Free Schools, but a reasonable tax on the scholars was left to the direction of the towns. Nearly all the schools in that colony in 1671, and much later, were supported in part by such a tax; but there can be no doubt that in Boston a free school actually existed before this period, or perhaps one or two elsewhere in the jurisdiction. Though Mr. Morton's school in Plymouth was strictly entitled by the terms of the colony grant to its benefits, yet, as he only taught ' to read and write, and cast accounts,' it failed, perhaps, under his instruction, to meet the expectations of the country. In the year last mentioned, 1672, a Mr. Corlet, a graduate of Cambridge, was the instruc- APPENDIX. 303 tor. It would seem that the higher standard of school learning, under Mr. Corlet, did not please the town much better than the plain education by Mr. Morton, had satisfied the government. Two years after, viz., in 1674, the town, as if apprehensive that the Latin and Greek were encroaching on the more useful de- partments after limiting the grant, which it had made of the Aga- wam and Sippican lands, to such only as had purchased of the In- dians previous thereto, entered these directions, ' that their chil- dren be instructed in reading, when they are entered, in the Bible: and also that they be taught to write and cypher, beside that which the country, (that is, the colonial government) ex- pects from said school.' Notice is again taken of the Free School, by the general court in 1675, and the Cape Fishery money appropriated to it. The profits of this fishery amounted to from 30 to 40 pounds per ann. In 1677, notwithstanding the distressing war with King Philip, the court ordered that, 'In whatever township in this government, consisting of 50 families or upwards, any meet man shall be obtained to teach a gram- mar school, such township shall allow at least twelve pounds, to be raised by rate on all the inhabitants of said town: and those that have the more immediate benefit thereof, with what others shall voluntarily give, shall make up the residue necessary to maintain the same, and that the profits arising from the Cape Fishery, heretofore ordered to maintain a grammar school in this colony, be distributed to such towns as have such grammar schools, not exceeding five pounds per ann. to any town. And further this court orders, that every such town as consists of seventy families and upwards, and hath not a grammar school therein, shall allow and pay unto the next town that hath a grammar school, the sum of five pounds to be levied on the in- habitants by rate, and gathered by the constables of such towns, by warrant from any magistrate of this jurisdiction.' In 1669, it was ordered that the selectmen procure a school master for the town, and settle him as near the centre as may be convenient, and that every scholar who comes to write or cypher or to learn Latin, shall pay three pence per week; if to read only, then to pay three half pence per week, and what re- mains due to the school to be levied by rate on the inhabitants. 1703, at town meeting it was voted, that there shall be a gram-' mar school master provided for the use of the town, and that there shall be a rate on the inhabitants to defray the charges thereof. In September, 1705, the town voted to pay £30 per year for a school master for the term of seven years, provided that said schoolmaster be settled within 40 rods of the old meet- ing house, and fhat the town pay £20 per year during the said 304 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. seven years, and alt children sent to said school, excepting the children of those who have subscribed for the support of the teacher, that live within one mile of said school, pay four pence a week for instruction in Latin, writing, or cyphering, and two pence a week for reading, and all those that are without the bounds of one mile and within the bounds of two miles to pay two pence per week for Latin, writing, or cyphering, and one penny for reading, excepting the children of such as through poverty are unable to pay, who are to go free, and all fines that are by the law devoted towards the support of a school and the money to be paid per v/eek as above said to be improved to- ward paying the tov^n's part of the said £"20, and the subscribers to have no benefit thereby. In 1712, September 8, the town voted that for the four years next ensuing, the use or interest of all the money voted by the town for the u-se of a school forever in said town, for the lands within the mile and half already sold or yet to be sold, shall be, by the town treasurer, yearly paid to Captain James Warren, Mr. Nathaniel Tliomas, and Mr. John Murdock, provided they shall keep or cause to be kept, in the middle of said town, in the school house, a good grammar school, according to law for the said four years, voted also to pay or cause to be paid yearly, during the said four years, ten pounds per annum unto said Warren, Thomas, and Murdock, to be raised by rate on said inhabitants, and all fines which by law shall belong to said school within four years, shall be paid to said Warren, Thomas and Murdock; and it was also voted that during the said four years the school grant to be paid to the persons above named according to the vote, September 17th, 1705, and the said three persons, empowered by the town to collect and gather the same and to have the benefit of it. 1714. — It was voted to allow £20 to the north end and £'20 to the south end of the town to build school houses. 1716. — It was voted at town meeting on the 22d of October, that there shall be three free schools set up in the town, one at each end to teach reading and writing, and one in the middle of the town to be a grammar school, and that there be a com- mittee chosen to provide suitable persons to keep the said schools, and the interest of the money, of what lands are sold within the mile and half, to go towards the support of the schools and the town will make up the deficiency, and the school to be continued five years. The committee was composed of Major Bradford, Isaac Lothrop, Captain Benjamin Warren, and Mr. Abiel ShurtlefF. 1724. — At town meeting February 15, there was a long and warn^ debate whether one school or three APPENDIX. 305 should be maintained in town, such was the confusion and tu- mult that the vote could not be determined by holding up hands, and it was agreed that the voters should retire from the house and then pass singly by the clerk and declare their vote; there was a majority for one school, but it was found advisable to ad- journ the meeting. At the adjournment it was voted that the grammar school in which is also taught writing, reading and arithmetic, be kept in the centre of the town near the meeting house, and that the ends of the town be allowed women^ schools or any other, so far as their proportion of taxes will g^ This dissention respecting the location of schools facilitated the separation of Jones's River parish from Plymouth, and its in- corporation into a town called Kingston. 1746. — The town voted that two more schools should be es- tablished in town, one on the training green, and one at Eel river, for the benefit of the inhabitants there, and at Monument Ponds, and committees were chosen to make the necessary ar- rangements, and to supply the schools with able teachers, and to erect a new school house on the training green. The great importance of free schools has been fully appreci- ated by the present generation, who have been as well disposed as their progenitors, and better able to promote them, and the school has been kept under a regular succession of granmiar masters to the present day. In 1803, l!220 dollars were voted for all the schools in town and in 1830 and for several preceding years. $2625 have been appropriated to their support, and in 1832, $3525. There are fifteen districts among which the sum of two thousand dollars is annually distributed, according to the number of children in each between the ages of six and sixteen; which number in the whole, by a census taken in 1829, amounted to 1028. The salary for our grammar school master is $600 per ann. In 1795, a school for girls was instituted by the town, to be kept in the summer months, at intervals of the town schools. The central school district was separated in 1826, at which time the town, or high school, as it has been since denominated, was placed on an improved footing, and a quarterly examina- tion had for admission to it from all the districts. The first school house was built by subscription in 1705, and stood a little south of the meeting house of the first parish; in the next year however, it was purchased by the town. The present school house on the northerly side of the meeting house was built in 1765. Our Sunday school first commenced in the third parish in the year 1818. In the first parish the school was established in 26* 306 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. V Twin sons of Rev. I>r. Chauncy. 1827. The number of children who have been members of the school belonging to the first parish has been from one hundred and sixty to two hundred. Great praise is due to our sabbath school teachers for their zeal and faithfulness in imparting christian knowledge to our youth. The whole number of at- tendants during 1831, was about four hundred, males and fe- males. It is indeed to be desired that all our youth may enjoy the benefit of this inestimable institution that their earliest im- pression may be the nature of the gospel, and the moral and religious duties which it enjoins. The following is a list of those born in Plymouth, who were graduates at our Colleges. Those marked thus * are deceased, those in italics have been ordained to the work of the ministry. -<«1642 ^JSTaihaniel BreiosteTj 1650 *Isaac Allerton, 1661 *JVathaniel Chauncy, } *Elnathan Chauncy, ^ 1663 *John Rayner, 1685 ^Roland Cotton, 1698 *Josiah Cotton, 1701 *T/ieopJiilus Cotton, 1707 * William Shurtleff, 1 726 *Isaac Lothrop, 1730 ^JoJin Cotton, 1735 *John Watson, 1745 *James Warren, 1745 *Thomas Foster, 1751 * William Watson, 1753 *Pelham Winslow, 1756 *Bartlett Le Baron, ]756 *Nathaniel Lothrop, 1759 *Mid Leonard, S. T. D. Nassau Hall 1765 *Edward Winslow, 1766 *John Watson, 1768 *Thomas Leonard, 1771 Perez Morton, 1771 *Jacob Bacon, 1772 *Joshua Thomas, 1776 *James Warren, . 1781 John Davis. LL. D. Dartmouth, 1782 *Chandler Bobbins, 1782 *Joseph Bartlett, 1782 *Charles Warren, 1783 Barnabas Hedge^ APPEND53L 307 1783 William Jackson, 1789 Zaccheus Bartlett/ 1790 * Joseph f'Varren, 1793 Ward Cotton, 1796 nVendell Davis, 1798 Andrew Croswell, 1793 * Samuel Prince Rohhins,, • 1799 Abner Bartlett, y^ 1802 * Caleb Holmes, 1804 Nathaniel Morton Davis^ i 1806 John Boies Thomas, 1807 *Ezra Shaw Goodwin, 1807 William Thomas, 1808 Charles Cotton, 1808 *John Torrey, 1810 *John Watson Davis, 1810 John Cotton, 1810 Rufus Bacony 1813 Winslow Warren, 1814 *Isaac Eames Cobb, 1815 Pelham Winslow Warren^ 1817 Charles Henry Warren, 1818 Sidney Bartlett, V 1820 Isaac Lothrop Hedge, 1820 Nathaniel Russell, 1823 James Augustus Kendall, 1826 Hersey Bradford Goodwin,. 1827 George Bartlett, /^ 1827 Andrew Leach Rirssell, 1831 *Francis James Russell, 1832 Le Baron Russell, 1833 Winslow Marston Watsoir. The following persons horn af Plymouth graduated at Yak College. 1768 Lemuel Le Baron, 1826 William Harlow. At Amherst College.. ^1830 Samuel S. Clark,. 1832 Isaac Wetherell. ^Physicians in Plymouth from 1620, Those with this mark * died in Plymouth. ■^♦Samuel Fuller, from 1620 to 1633. Mathew Fuller, from 1640 to 1652, died at BariKstable. 303 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ^Francis Le Baron, from 1693 to 1704. *Thomas Little, from 1700 to 1712. *Lazariis Le Baron, from 1720 to 1773. "^Joseph Le Baron, to 1761. ^Lazarus Le Baron, Jr. to 1784. ^William Thomas, 1802. \f*Nathaniel Lothrop, M. D. 1828. ^Stephen Marcy. *Isaac Barrows. *Caleb Boutell, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. 1819. Andrew Mackie, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. removed. Living in Phjmouth at present. James Thacher, M, D., M. M. S. Soc. relinquished practice. Rossetter Cotton, relinquished practice. Nathan Hayward, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. N/ Zaccheus Bartlett. Winslow Warren, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. Charles Cotton, M. D. Robert Capen. Hervey N. Preston, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. Lawyers in Plymouth. *ZabdieI Samson, Nathaniel M. Davis, John B. Thomas, William Thomas, John Thomas, Jacob H. Loud, ^ *Nathaniel Clark, *James Hovey, James Otis, a short time, Pelham Winslow, *Joshu a Thomas, John Davis, *John D. Dunbar, | Gustavus Gilbert. Topography and Statistics. Census of the town at different periods. 1764. — ^Dwelling houses, 256. Fami'ies 373. ■>■ Persons including 77,negroes, and 48 Indians, 2246. In 1776, Whites oniy^2655. In 1733, including 35.ji«groes, 2380, number reduced by the war. ^According to the U. S. census the number of the inhabitants of Plymouth — tvas 2995. 3524. - - - - 4228. 4384. 4751. In 1791 (( 1800 ti 1810 IC 1820 (( 1830 APPENDIX. 309 Increase last ten years, 367, 8J per cent. In 1834, probable number, 5000. Number of dwelling houses in 1815, 409. Number in 1834, 570. Number of shops for retail of English and West India Goods, 40. Number of rateable polls in 1831, 1091. The annual sum appropriated for town expenses is from ,$8000 to $10,000 besides labor on the roads. The central part of the town is compactly built, and house lots have doubled in price within a few years, and, for the space of half a mile north and south from the town square, very few building lots are unoccupied. Not a dwelling house of an- cient date or antique form now remains in town. Those re- cently erected are in the style of modern architecture, and in this respect our improvements have been increasing of late years more rapidly than ever before. The largest proportion of our buildings are painted of a light color, and being furnish- ed with Venitian blinds, exhibit an air of neatness and ele- gance. Numerous strangers attracted by the antiquity of the place and relics of the Pilgrims, take pleasure in visiting us in the summer season, and never depart witliout the pleasing im- pression that our village will compare with any in New England, and that the rock which received the first tread, and the hill which enshrines the ashes of our pilgrim fathers should always receive the sacred homage of their posterity; and what is to our honor strangers uniformly express tbemselves gratified with the marked attention and hospitality which they receive from our inhabitants. The congregational meeting house erected by the first parish in 1831, is on the plan of European architecture, and is the most magnificent edifice in the old colony of Ply- mouth. The County Court House in our Court square was erected in 1820. It is allowed to be an elegant edifice of brick, and in point of symmetry and just proportion, is in perfect keep- ing with the best models of modern architecture. On the low- er floor is an apartment for each of the offices of clerk of the courts, the register of deeds and of probate, and also a jury room. Above, there is an elegant court-chamber, a jury-room, a law library apartment, and two jury-rooms behind the gallery. The jail was also erected in 1820. It is of unwrought stone, except the front which is wrought, and is in all respects adapted to the purpose for which it was designed. The house for the jail-keeper is of wood, and is a handsome and commodious building. The old court house standing in the town square was purchased. by the town and converted into a town house, 310 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 'and we have hvo handsome school houses in the central district. Our other public buildings are eight houses for Divine worship, (including the one above mentioned) where 30 years ago two were found sufficient. The busy workings of sectarianism have created a singular passion for multiplying meeting houses, as though religion requires one for every chapter in the bible, and our religious societies are so minutely divided that our ministers receive but a slender support.* Monumental Edifice or Pilgrim Hall. — For a particular de- scription of this edifice the reader is referred to page 244. For the want of funds the front has not hitherto been adorned with the Doric portico, according to the original design. It is highly gratifying that the sum required, in addition to the late Dr. Lothrop's donation, for that very desirable purpose, has recently been obtained by subscription, and a handsome portico, was in 1834, erected, 8 ieet wide in front, and supported by six pillars of wood 16 feet high. The whole building has been re- paired and the hall finished in handsome style. The following streets and squares received their designations in 1823. Ley den Street, is that which was laid out in 1620, being the first street ever opened in Plymouth. It extends from the town square to Water street. Market Street, commences at the town house on the westerly side, and BramhalTs corner, so termed, on the east side, and extends south only to the stone arch bridge. Summer Street, extends south westerly from Market street, to the fork of roads beyond the rolling mill. Spring Street, is in the avenue extending northerly from Sum- mer street to the Burial Hill. It was called Spring Line by the first planters, as it led from their Fort Hill to a well known spring near the upper corn mill. High Street extends southwesterly from Market street, over rising ground, crossing Spring street, to Tribble's corner on the east side, and Bartlett's corner on the west side. Pleasant Street extends from the stone arch bridge, over the hill known by the name of Watson's Hill, to the training Green. Ring^s Lane is the avenue anciently known by that name *' There is no making christians of sectarians. You may make a thousand sectarians sooner than one christian. You may make proselytes, and convert to and from every sect in existence, ^ou will not brintr yodr converts one stop nearer to the religion whose doc- trine is love, for exclusion is in their mouths and supremacy in their hearts, and these are the essence of sectarianism, call it by what denomination you will.' APPENDIX. 311 leading from Summer street, and crossing Little Brook to the termination of High street. Mill Lane is the avenue from the lower corn mill to Summer street. Sandwich Street is the ancient street on the south side of the town brook, extending southwesterly from the stone arch bridge by Training Green to Wellingsly brook. This is the post road to Cape Cod. JYorth Street begins at Warren's corner on the south side, and Dr. Cotton's corner on the north side, and ends at Water street. Water Street commences at the termination of North street, and extends southerly by the head of the wharves, across the lower bridge, and ends at its junction with Sandwich street. Middle Street, formerly known by the title of King's street, leads from Main street to Cole's Hill. Main Street begins at Hedge's corner on the east side, and at Wethrell's corner on the west side, and extends north-north- west by the head of North street to Cotton's corner. Court Street begins at Cotton's corner and extends north westerly to Wood's lane. The elm trees on the west side of this street were planted in 1830. School Street is the avenue which extends northerly from the first meeting-house, by the head of the gardens, to the new Court-house. J^orth Alley extends northerly from Middle street to North street. South Alleij is the opposite alley leading from Middle street to Leyden street. A new street was laid out in 1834, beginning at the house of Mrs. Nicolson, and running by the north side of the Court- house, south-westerly, til) it enters Summer street. On the north side of this street, on elevated ground, is a dwelling house erected the same year by Mr. Charles Sever, lately deceased, being the first house erected on that street. Training Green is a handsome square on the south side of the town brook, laid out many years since by the town in perpetuity for the convenience of training companies. Town Square is a handsome public square at the head of Leyden street, directly in front of the meeting-house of the first parish, having the old court-house, (now town-house,) on the south, and the dwelling house and garden of Mr. Brigham Rus- sell, formerly owned and occupied by Capt. Thomas Davis, de- ceased, on the north side. This square has a gradual descent into Leyden street, and unites with Water street, near the spot where the pilgrims spent the first winter. The square is orna- 312 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. mented by six majestic elm trees, the planting of which the author witnessed in 1784, being brought from Portsmouth, by Capt. Thomas Davis. The largest in 1834, measured in cir- cumference nine feet, averaging about two inches annual growth since first planted. Court Square, formerly called Training Green, is in front of the new court-house, and Mrs. Nicolson's boarding house. The elm trees in that square were planted in May, 1832. Agriculture. — In the general view the land in this town is hilly, barren, and sandy; but a border of considerable extent on the sea-board having been well cultivated, consists of a rich, loamy soil, capable of.yielding any agricultural production. The art of agriculture, however, has never been an object of study and consideration by the inhabitants of the town, — tiie pur- suits of commerce and navigation being more congenial to their habits and taste than the labors of husbandry, especially on a soil not sufficiently fertile to encourage their efforts. There are, nevertheless, locations near the shore, where we have seen fields of Indian corn, potatoes, rye, wheat, clover, and other cultivated grass, which would bear a comparison with the best farms in any part of the Old Colony. Instances have occurred of the produce of four tons of English hay per acre, and some of our fields have yielded summer wheat of excellent quality, at the rate of more than thirty bushels per acre; and a premi- um was awarded to one of our industrious farmers for the pro- duction of forty-three bushels of rye on one acre and seven rods. But these instances are stated as the maximum, and not the average. Our meadows generally will average from one and a half to two tons, and our corn land about twenty to thirty bushels per acre. The principal part of the corn and rye, and all the flour consumed in town, are imported from the Southern States, or from Boston. A considerable number of sheep are grazed in the woods and on the commons in summer, without expense to the owners. Orchards have not generally flourish- ed to much advantage in this town. Although the trees are re- markable for rapid growth and healthy aspect, it is seldom that they yield a corresponding abundance of fruit. The peach tree has so uniformly disappointed our expectations, that it would appear that our climate is uncongenial to its natur^. Our gardens in general are sufficiently productive for all the purposes of culinary and domestic consumption, andsome there are which exhibit the skill of the botanist and horticulturist. The vine has been recently introduced into our gardens, and there is no reason to doubt but that those who are disposed to bestow the requisite care and attention on its culture, will be APPENDIX. 313 able to furnish their tables with the luxurious fruit in sufficient plenty, though it- is not to be expected or desired that the wine press will ever be in requisition among us. The ancient Warren farm, situated at Eel river, three miles south of our vilJage, has been, from the first settlement, in the possession of the Warren family, having descended from Rich- ard Warren, who came over in the Mayflower in 1620. This very valuable tract, consisting of abput four hundred acres, has, for a long time, suffered deterioration from wrong management and neglect. It is now in possession of John Thomas, Esq., who hascommenced its renovation. This gentleman, having acquired a knowledge, both theoretical and practical, of the modern mode of culture, has, with commendable enterprise and industry, ap- plied himself for two years past to improvement, in conformity with it. He has procured a stock of short-horned cattle, and is extending their breed. The sea shore furnishes rock-weed and kelp in abundance for compost manure, and he has greatly- enriched the meadow land, and prepared fifty acres for mowino- next season. The contiguity of this farm to the sea shore greatly enhances its value. There is another valuable farm, near the northern limits of the town, which, in 1665, was the seat of Governor Prince. This farm is bounded on its whole length by the sea bank, and consists of a variety of soils. It is now in the possession of Isaac L. Hedge, Esq., who, duly appreciating the value of a long neglected farm, is now engaged in meliorating its condition, in all respects according to modern improvements. He has, at great expense, erected a large convenient farm-house and out building, and stocked the place with English short-horn cattle. Plis barn and yard for swine are on a plan admirably adapted for the making compost manure, and the adjacent shore fur- nishes abundant materials for the purpose. There is in the centre of the farm an immense mass of clay for the manufac- ture of brick, which is conducted on a large scale. There is a beautiful brook passing through the farm and emptying into the sea. A considerable number of acres had never received the plough till the last summer, and the soil is excellent. Mr. Hedge has paid great attention to fruit trees and gardening, and he, with Mr. Thomas, is presenting excellent examples for imitation. Below Plymouth town, bordering on Sandwich and Wareham, is a district of country, nearly twenty miles square, that is chief- ly covered with wood, for the growth of which it is more val- uable than for any other purpose. This place has always been well stocked with deer, but they are thinned off annually by the 27 314 . HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. hunters. In January, 1831, a heavy snow, laying about three feet deep, so impeded their motions as to prove fatal to a large proportion of the stock. A number of people provided them- selves with snow-shoes, and pursued these beautiful animals, killing and capturing not less than two hundred. About forty were taken aHve. The pine commons of Wareham, Sandwich, and Plymouth, have ever been the favorite Jiaunt of the fallow deer, where this timid animal finds some sequestered delis, some secret recesses; a covert from his enemy, man, where 'He bursts the thicket, p^lances ihroucfh glade. And plunges deep into the wildest woods.' About the year 1730, John Rider, of Plymouth, killed three deer at a shot. It was in the summer season, in a rye field; tradition designates the place on the South Pond road. It was ^out of season by law to kill deer. The superior court, then in session, excused the man on the spot, it being in protection of his standing grain. This anecdote was related in England, by General John Winslow, in very high circles. It excited the smile of incredulity in that country, yet no event is more true. Tradition gives another instance equally extraordinary. A sachem named Samson, a mighty hunter in days of yore, seeing a number of deer drinking at a brook, killed so many at a shot, (too many it is said to be stated,) as acquired for him immortal fame among the huntsmen of the forest. The valuation in 1831 gives to Plymouth, woodland 11,662; unimproved, 19,463; unimprovable, 734 acres. Commerce and JVavigaiion of Plymouth, past and present. ^ In 1670, a valuation states the £sh-i>oats thus: Four at £25 - - - £100 Two at 18 - - - 36 One at 12 - - - 12 £148 Three of these were owned by Edward Gray, a respectable merchant. From this period to 1770, the fisheries were gradually in- \; creasing, and in 1774, seventy-five fishing vessels, of about 45 to 50 tons, navigated by seven or eight men each, were em- ployed in this town. Merchant vessels from 1755, to 1770, or 1774, in the Liverpool trade: APPENDIX. 315 Brigs 1 - - - Tons 130 1 - - - 160 1 - - - 180 470 One schooner, owned by Samuel A, Otis, Es,q., of Boston,/ made her outfits at Plymouth, for her voyages to Liverpool. Qiitwiaiid cargoes, liver oil, lumber, potash, then made at Mid- dleborough. ,Re,turu cargoes, salt, crates, freight for Boston. There may 'have been about twenty other vessels in the mer- chant service, whose outward cargoes were 6sh to Jamaica, some to the Mediterranean, and to the French Islands, Martinico and Guadaloupe. During the Revolutionary War, this commerce and these few vessels were chiefly annihilated, and at the peace of 1783,/" a few schooners only remained, but fishing vessels immediately increased in size and aggregate tonnage. Previous to the Revolution there was a considerable trade to Georgetown, South Carolina, and to Charleston. In the winter v/ m'any vessels which had been employed in fishing during the summer, took cargoes to North Carolina and Virginia, and re- turned in March with Indian corn, bacon, and live hogs, and^f this domestic trade still continued. ' Previous to the last war with England, say from about 1808 to 1811, the commerce of the United States had attained to a state of great prosperity, and its government and people reposed insecurity upon the advantages which had resulted from a neu-/ tral position.' Ship-building was constantly increasing, and large ships were in great demand for voyages of neutral freight. But the destructive embargo in 1808, and the war with Great Britain which followed, annihilated commerce, and blasted the fairest prospects and calculations of merchants. Several val- uable vessels belonging to this town were captured, others were perishing at the wharves, and our mechanics and seamen re-/ duced to a mortifying state of idleness. * The commerce of Plymouth, including Duxbury and Kings- ton, may be estimated from the following abstract of duties: Years. Duties. Years. Duties. 1801 §21,754 1806 $98,224 1802 19,223 1807 62.592 1803 30,305 1808 21,994 1804 34,417 1809 32,575 1805 63,411 1810 29,224 * It has been stated that we had in foreign trade, in 1811 an^ 1812, 17 ships, 16 brigs, 40 schooners. Of these were taken before: Septemherj 1312, 1 ship, 1 brig, 4 schoaners* 316 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. Duties paid by merchants and others in the iow7i of Plymouth, on importation at the port af Plymouth: l^ears. Duties. Years. Duties. 1813 $1,751 1822 $16,887 1814 ,428 1823 ' 12,706 1815 6,056 1824 5,053 1816 16,076 1825 8,151 1817 12,446 1826 4,842 1818 13,224 1827 13,119 1819 11,221 1828 25,732 1820 15,284 1829 31,237 1821 16,677 1830 8,383 1831 7,500 estimated. Enrolled tonnage belonging to the town of Plymouth, em- ployed in the coasting trade and fisheries, 3,949^ tons. Registered tonnage belonging to the town of Plymouth, 5,070|| tons, including l,170|f tons occupied in the whale fishery. The following is the statement of the Cod and Mackerel fish- ery for the summer of 1831. Schooners in the Cod fishery 32, averaging 61 1| tons, em- ploying eight men each, and landing 19,165 quintals of fish. The number of barrels of Mackerel inspected this season is 2183. To the inhabitants of the town the Cod fishery is an object of primary importance. To some it has been a source of wealth, and to multitudes of a comfortable, cheerful living. The fishermen, in general, are respectable for good morals, correct habits, and civil deportment. The idea prevails with some of them that fishing employment is less honorable than foreign voyages; but let them consider that all honest enterprise and industry is honorable, and that fishing voyages are less liable to sickness, and less exposed to dangers and vicious example; and, moreover, that the employment prepares them for services in the navy, where they may have the honor of fighting the bat- tles of their country. It is much to the credit of our fishermen that when on the banks they carefully abstain from fishing on Sundays. Those vessels that are employed in the straits of Belle-isle fishery carry whale-boats, in which the fish are taken and kept through the summer. To fit a vessel of seventy tons, carrying eight men, for a fishing voyage of four months, it requires about one hundred hogsheads, or eight hundred bushels of salt; that from the Isle APPENDIX. 317 of May is preferred; about twenty barrels of clam bait, thirty- five or forty barrels of water, twenty pounds of candles, two gallons of sperm oil; these articles are in the fisherman's phrase called great generals, and are paid for from the proceeds before any division of the profits is made. The stone ballast, and a suit of clothes for the men who salt the fish, are also in- . eluded in the great generals. After these articles are paid for, and the fish sold, the profits are divided in the proportion of three eighths to the owners, and five eights to the crew. If the crew furnish their own provisions, each man carries from thirty to fifty pounds of ship bread, from three to six gallons of mo- lasses, from fourteen to twenty-eight pounds of flour, some but- ter, lard, and vinegar, formerly two to six gallons of rum. At the present time, some vessels go entirely without ardent spir- its. Each man carries six codlines, thirty fathoms long, four lead weights of five pounds each, two dozen codhooks, one pair of large boots reaching above the knees, and a piece of leather or oil-cloth to defend his breast from the wet. A few other articles, called small generals, are paid for equally by each man, as two cords of wood, a barrel of beef, one bushel of beans, twenty bushels of potatoes, three bushels of Indian or rye meal. It is customary for the owners to put on board two or more spare anchors and forty fathoms of cable. The fish are brought home in the salt, and after being washed are spread on flakes to dry. Dun-fish are of a superior quality for the table, and are cured in such a manner as to give them a dun or brownish color. Fish for dunning are caught early in spring, and sometimes in February, at the Isle of Shoals. They are taken in deep wa- ter, split and slack salted, then laid in a pile for two or three months in a dark store, covered for the greatest part of the time with salt-bay, or eel-grass, and pressed with some weight. In April or May, they are opened and piled again as close as pos- sible in the same dark store till July or August, when they are fit for use. The amount of fish bounty paid to this town by the general government for the year 1831 is ^^17,501 47. Whale Fishery. There were a number of schooners and sloops employed in the whale fishery in this town previous to and immediately succeeding the war of the revolution; but there are now no vessels of that class so employed. In the year 1821, a number of citizens associated themselves together and built a ship of three hundred and fifty tons for the purpose of fitting her for the Pacific ocean whaling, which they named the Mayfioiver,, in honor of the ship that brought our forefathers 27 * 318 HISTTORY OT PXYM0T7TB. here in 1620. The ship sailed in September, 1821, and after making three successful voyages, and landing rising six thou- sand barrels of oil, a part of the owners sold to some gentle- men of New Bedford, where she was transferred in 1831, and repaired, and sailed from that place in April, 183 i; a part is still owned in this place. In 1821 another company was form- ed, consisting principally of the same persons that built the Mayflower, and built another ship which they called the For- time, in memory of the second ship that came into these waters. This ship is of two hundred and eighty tons burthen, and has made three voyages, and landed about fifty-seven hundred bar- rels of oil, and is now on her fourth voyage. In 1830, the ship Arbella, of four hundred and four tons, and navigated by thir- ty-hve men, was sent out, and in 1831 the ship Levant, of three hundred and eighty-live tons, navigated also by thirty-five men, sailed for the Pacific Ocean in pursuit of sperm whales. The two last named ships are of the largest class, and fitted out in a thorough manner; and it is hoped they may meet with success to induce others of our fellow citizens to embark in this enterprise, which has brought wealth and prosperity to other towns, and is believed can be carried on here to as good advan- tage as from most other places. The three ships now employ- ed in the whale fishery amount in the aggregate to 1060 tons, navigated by ninety-two officers and seamen ; the produce of this fishery may be estimated at about two thousand barrels of sperm oil annually. Connected with this establishment are the manufacture of about three thousand oil casks, and about fif- teen hundred boxes, or of forty-five hundred pounds of sperm candles annually. A fourth ship has this year (1833) been fitted out. There are six sloops of about sixty tons each constantly em- ployed in coasting between this place and Boston. They aver- age about one trip a week in the summer season, and are usually from eight to sixteen hours in performing a passage. The distance being about fifty-five miles. A large piirt of their cargoes consists of the raw materials for the cotton, woollen, iron and cordage manufactories, as well as all kinds of goods and groceries for our stores and shops, and they carry back the various kinds of manufactures which are produced here. There are also tw^o schooners, of about ninety tons each, employed in carrying to and from Nantucket, New Bedford, and New York, articles connected with our manufacturing establishments. There are also three vessels employed in bringing lumber from the State of Maine. An attempt w^as made in the years 1828 and 9, to run a steamboat between this place and Boston, but APPENDIX. 319 it proved to be a losing concern, which was much regretted, as it was found to afford a mode of conveyance of great conven- ience to the inhabitants. Wharves. In 1695, we find the first mention of a wharf on our records. John Richard had liberty from the town to erect a wharf against his own warehouse leaving sufficient room for carts to pass along the shore. In 1698, the town granted to James Warren 30 feet square of land for a wharf, and to Abiel Shurtleff a lot of the same dimensions below Cole's hill for building a wharf^ leaving a cart-way between the bank and said land. August 28, 1727, a committee was chosen by the town to hear what those persons have to offer, that purpose to build a wharf at the lower end of the new street, but no further pro- ceedings on the subject are recorded. In 1734, the town sold several wharf lots extending from the top of Cole's hill into the bay reserving a street 30 feet wide to run parallel with the shore. These, lots were laid out 30 feet in width, and a piece of land was reserved below the street for a landing place for vessels, to remain open for a common dock for the town's use forever. This dock lies at the bottom of north street, between the long wharf and Mr. Hedge's store. The first lot was sold to Isaac Lothrop, Esq. for 5 pounds and is adjoining the town dock; each purchaser of these lots were required to support the bank at the foot of Cole's hill. Other purchasers were Thomas Foster, Q,uintin Crymble, James Warren, John Mur- dock, Samuel Kempton, Josiah Finney, William Harlow. The lot called the shop lot, being the lot on which the shop of Dr. Francis Le Baron, deceased, then stood, was sold to Samuel Bartlett and Dr. Lazarus Le Baron. There are now nine wharves near the centre of the town, one of which extends nine hundred feet into the harbor, and is called Long wharf This was constructed in 1829, and is honorable to the enterprising proprietors. Having a plank flooring it affords a beautiful promenade, which is much frequented in summer by social par- ties who wish to enjoy a pleasant view and refreshing sea breeze. Besides these, there are three wharves on the south side of the harbor and one connected with the Cordage Factory at the north part of the town. On Water street, and the wharves which run from it, where most of the business connected with navigation is transacted, there are twenty-one stores, sixteen warehouses, and a sufficient number of mechanics and artists of various de- scriptions. There is an aqueduct in the town which supplies most of the families on the north side of the Town brook, at the rate of §5 annually for a single family, or ^8 for two fami- lies in one house. The water is brought in logs from Billing- 320 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ton Sea at the distance of about two miles. We have belong- ing to the town four fire-engines, well provided with hose and hydraulic pipes, and all the requisite appliances. We have also two large reservoirs connected with the aqueduct, affording an ample supply of water. The whole apparatus, with ladders and hooks are under the direction of men alert, and capable of the most efficient operation on any emergency which may occur. Ponds, Rive7'S and Brooks. The number of ponds within the limits of this tov/n is supposed to be more than two hundred. Billington Sea. This was formerly called Fresh Lake. It was discovered about the 1st of January, 1621, by Francis Billington, while mounted on a tree standing on a hill. It was in the midsi of a thick forest, and when seen at a distance, Bil- lington supposed it to be another sea. On the 8th of January, he went with one of the master's mates, to view the place. They found two lakes contiguous, separated by a narrow space; the largest is about six miles in circumference,. and is the far famed Billington Sea. It is about two miles south-west from town, and from it issues the Town brook. In this pond there are two small islands. The largest, containing about two acres, having been planted with apple trees, produces excellent fruit. This pond is well stocked with pickerel and perch. The ma- jestic eagle is frequently seen cowering over this pond, and has for ages built its nest in the branches of the trees, visiting the flats of the harbor at low tide in pursuit of fishes and birds. Loons, and beautiful wood-ducks produce their young in se- questered retreats about this pond, annually. The fallow deer, tenacious of its ancient place of rendezvous, continue to visit this pond for drink, and to browse on its mar- gin. For many years this beautiful pond was a favorite resort for social parties. A house was erected on the bank, a plea- sure boat was in the pond, and tea parties and fishing parties united in the happiest enjoyments. South Pond is situated four miles from town, — is a beautiful sheet of unruffled water, the bottom of pure white sand, with white and red perch playing in their native element. This pond has now become a place of fashionable resort for parties. There is no natural outlet: but about the year 1701, a water course was cut from it, about half a mile in length, crossing the road and uniting with the head waters of Eel river. This pro- ject was executed under the direction of Elder Faunce, with the view of attracting alewives into the pond; but it failed of success. Mu^Yloch^s Pond lies about half a mile from our village in the rear of burial hill. It is a deep round pond of about tsvo acres, APPENDIX. 321 where ice is procured for ice-houses; and a small hrook issuing from it crosses the west road, and is called Little brook, or Prison brook, which unites with the Town brook. Half-waij Pond. This is ten miles southerly from our village. There is an island in this pond which formerly furnished a large supply of masts, and the road to it is still called the mast road. White Island Pond lies some distance north-westerly from this; it is large, covering about 600 acres and is on the line which divides Plymouth from Wareham. Great Herring Pond is about 15 miles from town, on the bor- ders of Sandwich. It is two miles in length, and has an Indian population in- its vicinity. Little Herring Pond is connected with it by a brook. The Leech gives name to one pond, though in most of them leeches are taken which answer all the purpos- es of the true medicinal leech. Long Pond is two miles long, situated on the ancient path to Sandwich of the first settlers, which is the shortest route by two miles. It is six miles from town, and is famous for large pickerel and perch. Clam Pudding Pond is seven miles south, on the Sandwich road. It was formerly the resting stage for travellers to and from Cape Cod, and the settlers were in practice of holdino- annual festivals on Clam Pudding at this pond. Crane Brook Ponds are the source of a brook passing into Carver south-westerly, on which are valuable farna:ces and mills, manufacturing cast iron. Scook, is the Indian name of a small pond near Manomet point, where are numerous rocks. Coatuit is the Indian name for Half-way Pond. Agawam is the nam.e of the brook flowing from Coatuit and passing into the sea at Wareham. It is a valuable stream, on which mills and forges are situated and alewives abound in their season. Toim Brook. This is the outlet from Billington Sea; it passes through town and empties into the harbor a little south/ of Forefather's Rock. It is of inesttfftable to the town, beino- the seat of manufactures of great importance which will be described under the head of manufactures. There is a tannery and two grist-mills on this stream. Before the town sold their privilege to this brook, alewives were so abundant on their way^ to Billington Sea that more than 800 barrels have been taken in one season. But the passing up of the herrrings was for many years a source of much trouble and perplexity by inter- rupting the operations of the mills and manufacturers, occasion- ing an entire suspension during several weeks annually, to the 322 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. great damage of the proprietors and the town. It was from these considerations that, at a meeting of the inhabitants of the town in 1821, it was voted to convey to the owners of the mills situated on the town brook, all the town's right to the use of the water and the bed of the said brook, including the lower ' grist-mill, for the term of fifty years, on the condition that the N^ said owners of mills pay to the town §5000 in ten years with interest annually. According to the arrangement adopted by the town, the interest accruing on the purchase money is to be distributed, one third, or §100 annually, among such widows of the town as are not supported as paupers, and the remaining part,, or §200, to be distributed annually among the inhabitants of the town paying a poll tax, or poll taxes, in equal proportions as the selectmen of the town for the time being may direct. And when the principal sum of §5000 shall be paid, the select- men shall cause the same to be funded in such stock as in their opinion will best secure to the town the interest thereof for said purposes during said term of fifty years. Eel River. This originates in ponds and springs back of Eel River Village, crosses the post road to Sandwich, and emp- ties into the sea near Warren's farm. It is appropriately call- ed Eel river, from the abundance of eels which it yields to the support of the industrious poor. Perhaps it will not be extrav- agant to say that about 150 barrels are annually taken there. Wonkinqua Kiver takes its rise in this town, forms the boun- dary between it and Carver and runs about four miles to Ware- ham line, below which there are on this stream some of the largest iron works in the county, lied Brook seeks the sea at Buttermilk Bay, over it is a small bridge crossed by the road from Sandwich to Wareham. Willingshj Brook. This is about half a mile from our village, crossing the public road to Sandwich, So early as 1623, this place was recorded by the name of Hobb's Hole, from an inlet or cove under a cliff where small vessels and boats were shel- tered from storms. In 1637, we find the name of Willingsly on record for the same place. It is now a location for a cluster of about 24 houses, where there is some excellent land, and flakes for curing fish. Here was the seat of Secretary Morton; in this place he copied the church records, and wrote the Me- morial, and volumes of other records. Double Brook, or Shingle Brook, of the first settlers, runs northerly by the post-road to Sandwich, and unites with Eel river. A forge stands on it near the junction, Beaver Dam Brook is in the village of Manomet Ponds, and affords seats for several mills. Indian Brook is still further south, near the .J APPENDIX. 323 shore; it is small, bat abounds with trout. There are between this town and the bounds of Kingston, five small brooks or rivu-|| lets crossing the road; near the tl^rd, reckoning from town, lived Deacon Hurst, who erected the first tannery in Plymouth, about 1640. Near the fourth brook, was the seat of Governor Prince, being a farm given him by the General Court when he removed from Eastham in 1665, and was called Plain Dealing. This has since been known by the name of Lothrop's farm, now Hedge's farm. On this brook stands a grist-mill and a valuable cordage manufactory. Bridges. — There are in the town about 12 bridges. The stone arch bridge was erected over the Town brook in the year 1812, at Spring hill, precisely at the spot where the colonists had their first interview with Massasoit, in 1621. The hill where the sachem with his train of 60 men first appeared, was called Strawberry hill by the first planters, now Watson's hill. Tliere is another bridge of wood over the Town brook at the wharf, which for many years was the principal passage way, and was called the lower road. This bridge is now the property of the town, but is kept in repair by individuals, in consideration of some contiguous land granted to them by the town. Eel river bridge is well known to travellers, though the public road to Sandwich is now more westerly, and passes the cotton factory. Hills. — Pinnacle Hill is in the vicinity of South Pond. Sentry Hill and Indian Hill are on the sea shore of Manomet. Gallows Hill is on the south side of Wood's lane, and is the property of the heirs of Mr. Richard Holmes. Sparroiv^s Hill is two miles westerly, crossing the main road to Carver. Pauhofunnahuh , or Break heart Hill of the early settlers. Tliis is that remarkable sand hill ten miles on the road to Sandwich, which the first set- tlers had to pass on foot, when journeying to and from the Cape to attend the courts at Plymouth. The traveller now escapes that wearisome hill by taking the new oflfset road to the shore, at Mr. Joseph Harlow^s house. There are on the road to Sandwich, in the woods, two rocks called Sacrifice rocks. They are covered with sticks and stones, which have been accumulating for centuries. It was the con- stant practice among the aborigines, to throw a stone or stick on the rock in passing. The late Rev. Mr. Hawley, who spent many years among the natives at Marshpee, endeavored to learn from them the design of this singular rite, but could only con- jecture that it was an acknowledgment of an invisible Being, the unknown God whom this people worshipped. This pile was their altar. \^ Burying Hill Aormerly Fort Hill. Immediately in the rear of 324 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. the town is a hill, rising one hundred and sixty-five feet above ^he sea level, embracing about eight acres. On the summit of the south-west side, the pilgrims erected first some temporary de- fence; but, in 1675, on the approach of Philip's war, they erect- ed a strong fort, one hundred and fifty feet square, strongly pal- isaded, ten and a half feet high. No other place could have been so well chosen, either for discovering the ai)proach of savages, or for defending the town against their attacks. The settle- ment was rendered perfectly secure, and springs of water were at their command. The whole circuit of the fort is still distinct- , ly visible;* a watch-house was also built near the fort. \j The view presented from this eminence, embracing our har- bor and the shores of the bay for miles around, is not, perhaps, inferior to any in our country. Let the antiquarian come at full tide, and when the billows are calmed, and seat himself on this mount, that he may survey the incomparable landscape, and enjoy the interesting associations with which he will be inspired. Immediately beneath the hill lies the town in full view; and beyond this, the harbor and shipping. The harbor is a beauti- \ful expanse of water, bounded on the south by Manoraet Point, and near which commences a beach three miles in length, breasting the rolling billows of the bay, and serving as a barrier to the wharves; and on the north-east by a promontory extend- ing from Marshfield, called the Gurnet, on the point of which stands the light-house. These several points, together with the opposite shores, com- pletely enclose the harbor, having Clark's Island and Saquish in its bosom. Beyond these points opens the great bay of Mas- sachusetts, bounded at the southern extremity by the peninsula of Cape Cod, which is distinctly visible, and spreading bound- less to the north-east. On the north appears the flourishing village of Duxbury, shooting into the bay, and exhibiting a handsome conical hill, ever to be remembered as once the prop- erty and residence of the gallant Standish. Between Duxbury and Plymouth, is the harbor and pleasant village of Kingston. Having taken a survey of this magnificent group, so exceeding- ^ ly endeared to the New England antiquarian, and enjoyed a "^ spiritual vision of the Mayflower, laden with men, women, and children, come as founders of a mighty nation, we are next led to view a scene of more solemn contemplation. The whole extent of the hill is covered with the symbols of mortality, the (} * On the l{lth._day of May, 1834, the author planted an elm tree jnear the centre of the old fort, which may serve to designate its site , to posterity. APPENDIX. 325 sepulchres of our venerated fathers. We tread on the ashes of those to whom we are indebted, under Providence, for our most precious earthly enjoyments, all that is vakiable in life, much of principle and example which are consoling in death. With what solicitude do we search for a sepulchral stone bearing the , names of Carver, Bradford, and their glorious associates. It >/ excites some surprise that sixty years should have elapsed be- fore a grave-stone was erected to the memory of the deceased pilgrims; but it is probably to be ascribed to their poverty and want of artists. A considerable number of the oldest are of English slate-stone.. No stone of an earlier date than 1081 is / to be found in this enclosure, though it is by no means probable that this was the first interment here. It is to the memory of Edward Gray, a respectable merchant, Vvhose name frequently occurs in the old reco,jds. The inscription is, ' Here lies the body of Edward Gray, Gent., aged about fifty-two years, and departed this life the last of June, 1681.' Edward and Thomas Gray, brothers, came to Plymouth about the year 1643. Thomas it is said afterwards settled in Tiverton, or some say Connecti- cut. Edward married Sarah Winslow, daughter of John Wins- low; their children were Desire, Elizabeth, Sarah, and John. In December, 1665, he married for his second wife, Dorothy Lettice, by whom were born Edward, and five other children. The first Edward Gray is frequently mentioned in the old re- cords. He made his mark for his name, as was not uncommon in those days; by habits of industry and good management, however, he gained the character of a respectable merchant, and acquired an estate worth cf 1250 sterling, the largest estate v at that time in the colony. The second Edward, according to accounts received from Lewis Bradford, Esq., lived at Tiverton, Rhode Island. Thomas and Samuel lived at Little Compton, and also three daughters, two of whom married Coles, and the youngest married Caleb Loring, of Plympton, who is the an- cestor of theLorings in the north part of Plympton. Dorothy, the second wife of Edward Gray, married, when a widow, Na-v thaniel Clark, of Plymouth, for her second husband, but finally separated from him, and died in the family of her son-in-law, Caleb Loring, in May, 1728, aged more than eighty years. John Gray married Joanna Morton. Their children were Ann, who married Tinkham; Joanna married Ebenezer Fuller. Sam- uel married Patience Wadsworth. Mercy married Jabez Ful- ler. Samuel Gray, by Patience Wadsworth, had several chil- V dren; those who survived infancy are Mary, Samuel, and Wait. John Gray married Desire Cushman, January 26th, 1775. Their surviving children are John, born May 5th, 1777- Lewi^, 23 326 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. born May 3d, 1790. They lived in the old mansion house in Kingston. The following is the language of the Rev. Dr. Dvvight, after visiting our burying hill in October, 1800: ' Governor Carver was buried in the first burying ground, and is without a monu- ment. This is dishonorable to the citizens of Plymouth, but ^ will, I hope, not long remain so. The true character of the an- \ cestors is becoming better understood by the people of New England, and their attention to the persons and facts mentioned in the early history of their country is continually increasing. The inhabitants of Plymouth, who, in this respect, hold the first station among their countrymen, will, I trust, feel the propriety of honoring with so becoming a tribute, the memory of a man to whom they are so greatly indebted. The remains of Gov- ernor Bradford were interred without a doubt in the old burying ground, near those of his son. * But ' Not a stone \ Tells where he lies.' It is most grateful to our feelings that a sepulchral monument *The following are copied from some of the stones on our bury- ing hill : — --Ni Here lyes ye body of ye Honorable Major William Bradford, who expired February ye 20, 1703-4, aged 79 years. He lived long-, but was still doing good, And in his country's service lost much iDlood. After a life well spent he 's now at rest — His very name and memory is blest. •>j Here lyes ye body of Mr. Joseph Bradford, son to the late Honor- able William Bradford, Esq., governor of Plymouth Colony, who' departed this life July ye 20th, 1715, in the 85th year of his age. Here lyeth buried ye body of that precious servant of God, Mr. Thomas Cushman, who, after he had served his generation accord- ing to tiie will of God, and particularly the church of Plymouth, for many years in the office of ruling elder, fell asleep in Jesus, DeceQi- ber ye 10th, 1691, and in the 84th year of his age. Here lyes buried the body of Mr. Thomas Faunce, ruling elder of the First Church of Christ in Plymouth. Deceased February 27, An. Dom, 1745, in the 99th year of his age. The fathers, where are they ? Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. Here lyes ye bodv of Mr. Thomas Clark, aged 98 years. Depart- I «d this life March 24th, 1697. for APPENDIX. 327 is at length erected to the memory of Governor William Brad-v ford, under the direction of Alden Bradford, Esq., of Boston, a descendant of the fifth generation, and assisted by others of the descendants. * A neat monument was in May, 12l25, erected on the site long fully ascertained to be the deposite of the remains of the second Governor of Plymouth Colony. The monument consists of a solid block of granite, two and a half feet square and 18 inches thick, laid on a proper solid foundation. On the granite block is placed a white marble block 20 inches square and 10 inches thick. And on this a white marble shaft is placed, of the height of six feet, and of a pyramidal form, the base be- ing 15 inches, and the top about 8 inches; the whole monu- ment being 8 feet and a half in height from the ground, with an inscription on the shaft. The powderrhouse, on the north part of the hill, was built of brick in the year 1770; and the small mound in the form of a fyvt in the valley a little south-east of it, is said was built by Irs. Cotton's scholars in the time of Queen Ann'^ war. Cole's Hill. — This is a small square, on the sea bank, at the foot of Middle street. It is a pleasant spot, affording a fine ocean scenery. Here, too, we feel an impulse from ancestral recollections. On this hill, according to common tradition, were deposited the remains of those renowned pilgrims who fell a sacrifice during the perilous winter of 1620 — 1. About the year 1735, an enormous freshet rushed down Middle street, by which many of the graves of the fathers were laid bare, and their bones washed into the sea. A breast-work and platform were erected on this bank in 1742. John Winslow, who at that time lived in town, had the direction of the work, and the selection of the spot. During the revolutionary war a battery was erected at the same place, while intrenchments were thrown up at a well-selected spot, for defence of the town; and a fort and garrison were established at the Gurnet, at the entrance of the harbor, by the United States. In the war with Great Britain, in the year 1814, an in- trenchment was again thrown up on Cole's hill for the defence of the town. * The following persons contributed to the sum for erecting the y monument : the lady of James De Wolf, of Bristol ; the lady of Lient. Gov. Collins, of Newport ; Hon. John Davis, of Boston ; Mr. LtaJBaron Bradford, of Plymouth ; Cjip.t.-Gershom Bradford, of Dux- biiry ; Wm. J. A. Bradford, Esq. ; Mr. Duncan Bradford, Mr. G^jorge Pa Bradford, and Ezra Weston, Jr. Esq., of Boston. 328 HISfORY OF PLYMOUTH. Ptymouth Beach. — This commences at Eel river, and extend- ing three miles northerly, is a natural barrier to the wharves against the sweeping surges of the ocean. Originally, the beach consisted of sand hills and hollows, covered with beach grass, excepting about 80 rods in length, and 30 rods in breadth, which was a thick forest. The inner side of the beach was covered with plum and wild cherry-trees, and the swamp with large pitch pine and beech wood, with a large quantity of white grape-vine attached to the trees. In the centre of the hollow, was a spot about 50 feet square, which was a firm green sward, and shaded by four beach trees, from which were suspended numerous vines with clusters of grapes in their proper season. This was a pleasant resort for gentle- men and ladies, and was much frequented in the summer sea- son, as is well remembered by persons now living. The point of the beach extended to the spot where the stone pier now stands, and not far from it was a house of entertainment for marines, as the harbor was a famous anchorage, and sometimes near one hundred vessels were seen riding in the Cow Yard. This was the natural state of the beach till about 1770. Our ancestors were well aware of the importance of the beach as security to the harbor, and we find in 1703 a penalty of five shillings im- posed on any one who shall fell trees, or set fires on the beach. We find again in 1723 and 1726, committees chosen by the town to secure the beach from injury by cattle going at large, and who were enjoined as far as possible to prevent encroach- ments on said beach. In 1764, a viewing committee of the town reported <£20 sufficient for the repairs of two small breach- es near the woods. In December, 1778, a great storm in- creased these two breaches, after which a hedge fence was erected to accumulate the sand. In November, 1784, a tre- mendous gale from the east, accompanied by the highest tide ever known, carried away a part of the woods on the east side, and overflowed the valley and swamp, by which all the trees w^ere killed in about three years, except those on the high ground. The same year a committee from the town viewed the breaches, and reported that a wall of eighty feet in length and four feet high, would be competent to the repairs, with hedge fence in low places; and that it would require about one thousand tons of stone, and at the cost of £414. The committee also recommended the di^sins of a canal to turn the course of Eel river, that it may empty into the channel within side of the beach as formerly; the river having been diverted from its natu- ra course by some proprietors of meadows for their benefit, about 1750. It was the decided opinion of Mr.. John Peck, a APPENDIX. 329 skilful marine architect, about the year 1779, that for the safety of the harbor, a canal to turn the river back to its natural chan- nel, was indispensably necessary. The judgment of such a man ought to have received immediate attention. But in the year 1803, a committee of the town examined the ground, and esti- mated the expense of a canal at a sum from $600 to $800. The town did not adopt this measure, and such were the extra- ordinary inroads of the sea, that in 1805 and 1806, the beach was in such a ruinous condition that the tide swept over it, and boats actually crossed at the breaches; nor was it long before a channel was worn in one of the breaches nine feet deep, and vessels loaded with stone passed through. A promiscuous wall of stone was now erected, but was soon entirely demolished by the surges of the sea, as if composed of simple turf. Areviewing committee now Reported that a sea wall of two thousand feet, requiring thirty thousand tons of stone, costing $45,000, was found necessary. The town petitioned our legis- lature, from time to time, for assistance in repairing the beach. In 1785, a grant was obtained of £500, conditional, that the town would raise and apply the like sum; but, from inability, this was not complied with. In 1806, a township of land in the State of Maine was granted, on condition that the town raised and applied $5000 in two years, which was accepted, and the township of land was sold for $9,500. In 1812, a lottery to raise $16,000 was granted by the General Court, which sum was eventually realized, and applied as designed. Since that time, another township of land has been gi anted for the same purpose. A sum, amounting to more than $40,000, has been expended for repairs since the year 1806, without any assist- ance from the general government. But in the year 1824, the town preferred a petition to Congress for assistance, and the general government assumed to itself the future repairs; and in 1824 and 1825, made a grant of $43,566. In 1824, the repairs were conducted by Lieutenant Chase, of the Engineer department, who received the thanks of the town for his faith- ful and judicious performances. Tlie next year the repairs were, prosecuted under the supervision of Colonel Totten, of the corps of Engineers, assisted by the collector of the port. The method adopted for the repairs, is, by triangular frames of timber filled in with stones, around and over which the sand gathers and forms a new beach. In other places large bodies of brush are laid, which have produced the desired effect, accu- mulating sand into cliffs and helping the growth of beach grass. The frames employed are of three sizes, a part fourteen leet base, twelve feet rafters; twelve feet base, ten feet rafters; tea 28 * 330 HlStOUt OF ^LYMOTJTH. feet base, seven feet rafters. Th«se frames are morticed and tenoned together, and placed vertically in a line on the surface of the beach, and jfilied with stones. The largest size contains five tons, and the smallest three tons. The whole quantity of stones used from 1824 to 1831, is 14,997 tons. A wail has been erected to the extent of 450 feet, in the most substantial man- ner, and the works seem to have produced the desired efiect. As an indirect aid to the security of the beach, a canal half a mile in length and fifteen het wide, was cut by the town in the year 1814, for the purpose of conducting Eel river to its native out- let within side of the beach, which has been found to be of very essential advantage. This outlet will require annual vi- gilance, and it is confided to posterity as a work of great impor- tance to the preservation of the harbor. The repairs of this beach which has so long engaged attention are now considered as complete, and with care and a little annual expense, ivill j^rob- ablij continue as a mound of defence for ages. The Gurnet is a peninsula, or point of high land originating from Marshfield, and extending about 7 miles into the bay. On its southern extremity is situated the light-house. It was first erected in 1768, by the then province, at the expense of £660 17s. and in 1801, it was consumed by fire. The light-house now standing was erected by the United States, in 1803. It exhibits two lights, which are about 70 feet above the level of the sea. There is near the point a farm of rich soil which supports one family. Saquish is a head land joined to the Gurnet by a narrow neck, lies contiguous to Clark's Island, and contains 12 or 14 acres. Clark's Island is the first land that received the footsteps of our fathers who formed the exploring party from Cape Cod. It received its name from Clark, the master's mate of the May- flower, who first took possession of it with the shallop, Decem- ber 8th, 1620. There is a tradition that Edward Dotey, a young man, attempted to be the first to leap on the island, but was severely checked for his forwardness, that Clark might first land and have the honor of giving name to the island, which it still retains. My authority for this tradition is Mr. Jo- seph Lucas, whose father was the great-grand son of Edward Dotey. The anecdote has been transmitted from father to son, so tenaciously that it need not be disputed. He also states, that Edward Dotey was one of the earliest settlers in that part of Plymouth which is now Carver, where he died at an advanc- ed age, and his estate there was inherited by his descendants of the same name till within a few vears. .^JfPIiNDlX. 331 This island contains 86J acres, as appears by the following survey. ' By virtue of a vi^arrant from his excellency Sir Ed- ward Andros, knight, captain general and governor in chief of his majesty's territory and dominion of New England, bearing date, Boston, the 23d of February, 1687, — 1 have surveyed and laid out for Mr. Nathaniel Clark, a certain small island, being known by the name of Clark's Island, and is situated and lying in New Plymouth Bay, bearing from the meeting-house in Ply- mouth north by north-east, about three miles, and is bounded round with water and flats, and contains eighty-six acres and a quarter and three rods. Performed this 3d day of March, 1687. 'Philip Wells, Surveyor.^ In Governor Hutchinson's history of Massachusetts, this is called one of the best islands of Massachusetts Bay. The growth of wood was chiefly red cedar, and was formerly an ar- ticle of sale at Boston, for gate posts. In 1690, Clark's Island was sold to Samuel Lucas, Elkanah Watson, and George Mor- ton. The family of the late John Watson, Esq. have been the proprietors of this island for half a century, and still reside on it. There is at present but one island in the harbor of Ply- mouth; that which was formerly called Brown's Island is only a shoal lying about half a mile east by north from Beach point. ' This it is supposed was once upland, and there is a tradition, that stumps of trees have been seen here.' In Winthr(5p's Journal p. 87, it is said that in 1635, September 6th, * Two shallops, going, laden with goods, to Connecticut, were over- taken in the night with an easterly storm, and cast away upon Brown's Island, near the Gurnet's Nose, and the men all drowned. '^ Cow Yard. An anchorage in Plymouth harbor near Clark's Island. It takes its name from a cow whale, which once came into it and was caught, with her calf. This was formerly a fa- mous anchorage for fishermen. Salt House Beach is contiguous to Marshfield Beach, near Clark's Island. Hio-h Pines is a piece of salt meadow which lies back of Clark's Island. ' William Shurtleff* exchanges with the pre- cinct, the precinct give him ten acres of upland and meadow, and he conveys to them a piece of salt meadow, six acres more or less, at High Pines.' — Cminhj Records, b. v.fol. 113, 114. Sheep Pasture. At the commencement of the last century, the inhabitants considered it an object worthy of attention to en- courage the rearing of sheep on the town's land. Accordingly in May, 1702, a tract of three miles square was granted to a 332 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. number of individuals, for their improvement as a sheep pas- ture. This tract was within the bounds of Plymouth, Roches- ter, Plympton, Carver, and extending to Smelt Pond in Kingston. The plan which they adopted was to divide the property into 322 shares, which were taken up by 16 persons. A house and folds were erected, and a shepherd was employed, who resided on the spot. Twenty acres were allowed for cultivation, and the sheep were to be folded on the land the first three summers, with the view of bringing it into grass. In the year 1704, the town passed a vote that the said land shall be, and remain to the persons therein named, according to the number of shares they have signed for, and to such others as shall join them, and to their heirs forever. The endeavors of the proprietors were at- tended with little success, and in the year 1712, they began to think of resigning the land back to the town, and in 1712, this was done, and the project altogether abandoned as impractica- ble. The number of sheep was about 360. In 1768, a propo- sition was made to revive this project as a town concern, but it was v.'isely rejected. Subsequently to 1784, this tract was sold at different times; the last 800 acres were disposed of in 1798. The Militia of the town. One company of Artillery, com- manded by Eleazer S. Bartlett. _ One do. Light Infantry, called the Standish Guards, commanded by John Bartlett, 3d. Two companies Infantry, called South and North. South company, commanded by George W. Bartlett. North company, by Asa Barrows, Jr. / The above are attached to the 1st Regiment, commanded by Col. Leander Lovell, and belong to the 1st Brigade, 5th Divi- sion. Manufactures. The Manufactures of Iron are various, and some of them extensive. On the stream called the Town brook are two forges, in which are made anchors, mill-cranks, plough- shares, sleiirh shoes, &c. Formerly shovels were made at these works, under the superintendence of Mr. Ames, whose manu- facture of the same article in Easton has since become so cel- ebrated. The rolling-mill and nail factory on the same stream have been in operation many years; the former was rebuilt in the year 1807, on the site of a slitting-mill for the manufacture of nail-rods, formerly the property of Martin Brimmer, Esq., of Boston. At this establishment are made about three tons of nails per day. Nearly all the nail machinery in this factory is the invention of Mr. Samuel Rogers, of East Bridgewater, who received large sums from the proprietors for his patents. There is one machine, lately invented and constructed by Mr. APPENDIX. 333 Joseph Lucas, of this town, on a new principle, by which, while much of the manual labor is saved, a larger quantity of nails can be made in a given time than by any other machine. As a specimen of iis performance, it may be mentioned, that the produce of something less than five hours' work was one thousand and twenty-five pounds of lOd, or board nails, of the very best quality. Mr, David Bradford, of this town, is the in- ventor of another nail machine, considered equal if not supe- rior to the best of the old construction. Near the rolUng-mill, is an air furnace, occasionally used in casting machinery for the iron works. Here is also a furnace belongino- to the same establishment, for converting, bar iron into blistered steel. Thi'ty cords of wood are consumed in the process of baking, which requires from six to ten days. About eighteen tons are made in a batch. At Eel River is another rolling mill of more modern con- struction. It commenced operation in June, 1827, The head and fall of water in this privilege are about thirty feet, with an unfailing stream. The rolling-mill and nail factory connected with it are built of granite, in a very strong and durable man- ner; the former is eighty by fifty feet in the clear, and the lat- ter seventy-two by forty i^eet. The rolling-mill will manufacture the present year about seventeen hundred tons of iron into nail-rods, plates and hoops. Another nail factory, about one mile from these works, is supplied by them with plates; and on the same dam with it is a forge where bar-iron of superior tenacity is made from scraps. Below these, on the same stream, is a rivet factory, where may be seen a machine for making rivets, invented by Mr. Timothy Allen, another ingenious mechanic of Plymouth, and intended to supersede the ill-contrived tools at present used. It has been in successful operation one or two years, and fully an- swers the expectations of the inventor. It may not be amiss to include in this enumeration, a factory lately put in operation by Captain Samuel Bradford, for mak- ing staves, to be used for nail casks. By this machinery the staves are sawed from the log, jointed, and tapered into the precise form necessary to give the cask the required shape. Cotton Factories. The Cotton Factory on Town-brook wa erected in 1813; dimensions ninety-two feet by thirty-six, and is four stories, including basement and attic. It contains about sixteen hundred spindles and thirty-four looms, and manufac- tures from nine hundred to one thousand yards of cloth daily, all about three quarters of a yard wide, employing about fifty- four hands. 334 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. The factory at Eel River was erected in 1812, and its di- mensions are ninety-two by thirty-six, and is six stories, includ- ing the basement and attic. Belonging to the same establish- ment and at the same dam, is a smaller building which contains spinning machinery also. There are about two thousand spindles in both, and about forty looms in operation. From eleven to twelve hundred yards of cloth are manufactured daily, part of which is three-fourths and part one yard wide. This factory gives employment to about sixty-four persons. The factory at Manomet Ponds con- tains about three hundred spindles, and manufactures about 50 pounds of coarse warp per day, a considerable portion of which is colored, and made .into cod and mackerel lines, which are lately introduced into use, and bid fair to supersede those made of hemp altogether. These are twisted and laid by water in a small line-walk attached to the factory. There is also a small cotton factory on the forge stream at Eel River, which manu- factures coarse warps, and a very superior kind of wncking used for making sperm candles. There is at the forge dam at Eel River, a small nail factory, where about one thousand nails are made daily. Plymouth Cordage Company was incorporated in 1824. Their rope-walk situated in the north part of the town and near the Kingston line, is three stories high, capable of employing eighty hands and making five hundred tons of cordage per year. Their cordage is of a patent kind, in high repute and made by water power. There is another rope- walk in town, operating by water pow- er, but no statement of the extent of its operations could be procured. There is also in, town a twine and line manufactory, where eight tons of hemp are manufactured annually into twine and various kinds of line, which come to a profitable market. Ship building was formerly carried on to a considerable ex- tent in this town; many excellent vessels have been sent from our ship yards, but the business is now diminished on account of the scarcity of timber. In 1779, a packet ship was built in this town for Congress, by Mr. John Peck, who was at that time much celebrated for his skill as a marine architect. The ship was called the Mercury, and was commanded by Captain Simeon Sampson, and employed to carry public despatches to our ministers in France. The ship-yard was on the spot which is now the garden of Captain Lothrop Turner. JVeivs Papers. In the year 1785, Nathaniel Coverly, of Bos- ton, commenced the publication of a newspaper in town, en- APPENDIX. 335 titled the Plymouth Journal, but from its limited circulation, and our nearness to the metropolis, it was discontinued after a {e\v months. In 1822, Mr. Allen Danforth commenced the Old Colony Memorial; which is published every Saturday. This paper is increasing in reputation and is well supported. Con- nected with the printing office is a newspaper reading room, where intelligence from various quarters is daily received, and is a pleasant resort for the reading gentlemen at their leisure hours. Under the same roof is a book-store and bindery, and a circulating library. May 17th, 1832, appeared the first num- ber of a weekly paper entitled the ^Pilgrim,'' established by Rev. F. Freeman, but in about one year it was discontinued for want of support. October 27, 1832, the first number of an anti-masonic newspaper was published in this town for the county of Plymouth. The imprint is We the People, and Old Colony Press, published once a week, by C. A. Hack and H, Seaver. Discontinued in 1834. February 16, 1833, commenced The Old Colony Democrat, a weekly paper which in May 1834, was removed to Middlebo- rough. There are three licensed public taverns in towns, all of which are commodious, and well, provided and attended; and there are two other taverns on the road to Sandwich. Mrs. Nicholson's boarding house, in court square, has long been established, and is known to the public for its excellent accommodations. The first regular stage commenced running from this town to / Boston in 1796. We have now a stage establishment equal to any in the country, running daily in various directions, and provided with excellent horses and careful and attentive driveip Although we can boast of no rail-road cars to facilitate con- veyance, our public roads are kept in fine order, and our fath- ers would say that our Stage Coaches are good enough for their posterity to travel the paths over which they themselves were satisfied to trudge on foot or to ride on the backs of bulls. The first post office establishment in this town was by our Provincial Congress, May 12, 1775. They established a mail route from Cambridge, through Plymouth and Sandwich to Falmouth, once a week. The Congress appointed William Watson, Esq., postmaster in this town, and Timothy Goodwin and Joseph Rowland, joint post riders. The following are the rates and duties for the postage of letters, &q., to be paid in lawful money. From any distance not exceeding 60 miles £0-0-54 336 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. Upwards of 60 miles and not exceeding 100 8 Upwards of 100 and not exceeding ^00 lOJ Upwards of 200 and not exceeding 300 1 - i Upwards of 300 and not exceeding 400 1 - 4 Upwards of 400 and not exceeding 500 1 - 6J Upwards of 500 and not exceeding 600 1-9 Upwards of 600 and not exceeding 700 2 - Upwards of 700 and not exceeding 800 2 -2J Upwards of 800 and not exceeding 900 2-5 Upwards of 900 and not exceeding 1000 2-8 The rate of postage is doubled for all double letters, trebled for all treble letters, and for every ounce weight, four times as much is to be charged as for a single letter. Plan of riding from Cambridge to Falmouth in Barnstable county: ^ To set off from Cambridge every Monday noon, and leave his letters with William Watson, Esq., post-master at Plymouth Tuesday at four o'clock afternoon. To set off from Plymouth Wednesday morning 9 o'clock and leave his letters with Mr. Joseph Nye, 3d, post-master in Sandwich, Wednesday 2 o'clock afternoon; to set off" from Sandwich at 4 o'clock and leave his letters with Mr. Moses Swift, post-master at Falmouth, Thursday morning 8 o'clock. To set off on his return Thursday noon and reach Sandwich at 5 o'clock, and set off from thence at 6 o'clock on Friday morning and reach Plymouth at noon; to set off from Plymouth Friday 4 o'clock afternoon and leave his let- ters with Mr. James Winthrop, post-master in Cambridge on Saturday evening. Watertown, June 1, 1776. |tWe have appointed Messrs. Goodwin and Howland, joint post riders from the post office at Cambridge to the post office at Falmouth, through Sandwich and back again, which they are to perform according to the foregoing plan. Above you have the rates of postage; you will make up your mails separately for every office in the colony, inclosing a ticket sealed, and de- liver it to the riders in due season, that they may be enabled to do their duty with punctuality; you are to be accountable to us according to the tenor of your bond, for all the money you re- ceive for postage deducting your service in your office twenty per cent. William Greenleaf, hy order. To William Watson, Esq., Post-Master at Plymouth.' Such has been the improvement in travelling since that period, that the mail is now transported in covered carriages from Bos- APPENDIX, • 337 ton to Falmouth and returned in two days, and ov€r the same route three times a week. Alms House. In 1826, the town purchased a few acres of land well located, and erected a very commodious Ijrick house • and out houses, at the expense of from four to five thousand dollars, where the poor are well accommodated under the care of an overseer, and amply and comfortably provided for. The average number in the house is thirty-three, and the expense to the town for their support, overbalanqing their earnings, is about one thousand dollars annually. This sum includes the expense of a few individuals partly supported out of the house. Market. Our provision market affords an ample supply of the various substantial, the conveniences, and the luxuries of life, such as beef, pork, mutton, poultry, and sometimes veni- son. At our fish market we have cod, haddock, halibut, mack- erel, bass, tautog, lobsters, eels, alewives, and clams. Should any one complain for want of a dinner, he must be chargeable with inexcusable indolence, and probably with intemperance. Societies. Pilgrim Society. This society was established tX in 1.SL2Q, by the descendants of the first settlers at Plymouth, and such others as were desirous of perpetuating their princi- ples, and commemorating their virtues. The number of mem- bers of this society amounts to several hundred, and it is de- sirable that number should be increased. The terms of admis- sion are ten dollars, and those who duly appreciate the princi- ples of the institution and the characters of the puritan fathers, cannot fail to unite in this duty of filial piety, and contribute their aid to its support. An appropriate diploma, prepared by Mr. E&nniman, of Boston, has been, and is designed to be dis- / tributed among the members. The diploma is about 15 inches by 10, the upper part gives a view of Plymouth harbor, the beach, and island. Below is a sketch of Plymouth village, and surrounding objects, as now presented to view. The stated meetings of the society are held at Pilgrim Hall, on the 25d of December, and for the choice of officers, the last Monday in May. The officers of the present year, 1834, are, Ajden Brad- . &rd, president; Z, Bartlett, vice-president; Benjamin M. Wat- son, recording secretary; Pelham W. Warren, corresponding secretary; Isaac L. Hedge, treasurer; James Thachor, libra- rian and cabinet keeper. There are eleven trustees, and a committee of arrangements consisting of three. Temperance Society. The Plymouth County Temperance Society, have frequently held their meetings in this town, and Daniel Frost, Jr. Esq., being employed as agent for the countv, has on several eccasions during the past summer, addressed 29 338 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. from our pulpits large and respectable assemblies on the sub- ject of temperance. His addresses were received with uni- versal approbation, and his unceasing efforts in the temperance •cause, have been productive of such astonishing results, as to entitle him to the highest honor. By his influence, chiefly, more than 1000 names were inscribed here on the paper pledg- ing themselves to abstain from the use of ardent spirits, and to discourage the practice in others. A temperance society has- recently been formed in this town. The promotion of temperance has long been an object of so- licitude among most of the inhabitants of this town, and they have wisely attended to the awful desolations of intemperance, and in the great work of reformation which is now extending around us. Most decided is our opinion that this alarming evil is only to be suppressed by a general union in the means of en- tire abstinence from all ardent spirits, as a drink, or as an aux- iliary to labor. It is auspicious to our community, that it has pleased Heaven to bless us with the temperance reformation. It may be presumed that the consumption of ardent spirits is diminished not less than three fourths within the last seven years, and in the same diminished proportion is life sacrificed, health, happiness, and domestic comfort destroyed, and the character and morals of our fellow men impaired by the prac- tice of intemperance. Long may it be our happy condition that our temperance societies may meet with the co-operation of all classes of people in their efforts to improve the health of the community, to promote the industry and the means of living of individuals, to increase their self-respect and love of char- acter, and to give a new impulse to the domestic virtues in the private relations of life. Formerly there were tv.'o rum distilleries in this town, pro- ducing large quantities of New England rum, from which the neighboring towns were supplied with the fiery element, and \, considerable quantities were sent to the southern states annu- ally. One of these houses was located where Mr. Gale's long house now stands, and the other occupied the lot now vacant, adjoining the lot of Mr. Wilham Holmes. This was taken down in 1814, and we hope never to see another erected. It is a matter of gratulation that there is so great a combina- tion against intemperance throughout our country. It is truly honorable to all who enlist in this holy warfare; and may God grant that every effort, calculated to annihilate the practice of inebriation, may be crowned with success. The Old Colony Peace Society hold their meetings occasion- ally in this town. There is also a Debalmg Society in town. APPENDIX. 339 The ladies have for about fifteen years sustained a Fragment Society, much to their honor, having afforded essential benefit and relief to many poor and destitute families, bestowing char- ity to the poor, and are friends to the friendless. Banks. The Plymouth Bank was incorporated June 23d, 1804, capital $100,000 ; first president, was Hon. William Sever of Kingston, after him Hon. William Davis, at present, Barnabas Hedge, Esq. First Cashier, William Goodwin, at present, Nathaniel Goodwin. Plymouth Instituticn for Savings, president, Barnabas Hedge; treasurer, Allen Danforth, office at Plymouth Bank. Deposit day, first Tuesday of every month. Amount of deposits in 1833, $100,000. Old Colony Bank, incorporated in February, 1832, capital $100,000; president, Jacob Covington; cashier, Ebenezer G. Parker. The following is a list of those gentlemen who have deliver- ed discourses in the town on the anniversary of the arrival of our Forefathers. Those marked with an asterisk, (*) have not been printed. 1769, First celebration by Old Colony Club. 1770, Second celebration by Old Colony Club. 1771, Third celebration by Old Colony Club. 1772, Rev. Chandler Bobbins— For Old Colony Club. 1773, Rev. Charles Turner— For Old Colony Club. By the town and by the first parish. 1774, Rev. Gad Hitchcock, Pembroke. 1775, Rev. Samuel Baldwin, Hanover, 1776, Rev. Sylvanus Conant, Middleborough, 1777, Rev. Samuel West, Dartmouth. 1778, Rev. Timothy Hilliard, Barnstable.* 1779, Rev. W^illiam Shaw, Marshfield.* 1780, Rev. Jonathan Moor, Rochester.* From this time the public observances of the day were suS' pended, till 1794, Rev. Chandler Robbins, D. D. of Plymouth. 1795, ^ 1796, > Private Celebration. 1797, ) 1798, Dr, Zaccbeus Bartlett, Plymouth, Oration.* 340 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 1799, The day came so near that appointed for the ordina- tion of Rev. Mr. Kendall, that k was not celebrated by a public discourse. 1800, John Davis, Esq., Boston, Oration.* 1801, Rev. John Allyn, D. D., Duxbury. 1802, John Q,. Adams, Esq., Quincy, Oration. 1803, Rev. John T. Kirkland, D. D., Boston.* 1804, (Lord's Day) Rev. James Kendall, Plymouth.* ^ 1805, Alden Bradford, Esq., Boston. 1806, Rev. Abiel Holmes, D. D., Cambridge. 1807, Rev. James Freeman, D. D., Boston.* 1808, Rev. Thaddeus M. Harris, Dorchester. 1809, Rev. Abiel Abbot, Beverly. 1811, Rev. John Elliot, D. D., Boston. 1815, Rev. James Flint, Bridgewater. 1817, Rev. Horace Holley, Boston.* 1318, Wendell Davis, Esq., Sandwich.* 1819, Francis C. Gray, Esq., Boston. --J 1820, Daniel Webster, Esq., Boston, by Pilgrim Society. 1824, Professor Edward Everett, Cambridge, by Pilgrim - Society. 1831, Rev. John Brazer, Salem, by First Parish in Ply- mouth. The following anniversaries were commemorated by the third parish in Plymouth. 1826, Rev. Richard S. Storrs, Braintree. 1827, Rev. Lyman Beecher, D. D., Boston^ 1828, Rev. Samuel Green, Boston. 1829, Rev. Daniel Huntington, Bridgewater, 1830, Rev. Benjamin Wisner, D. D., Boston. 1331, Rev. John Codman, D. D., Dorchester. 1832, Rev. Convers Francis of Watertown for the First Parish. Rev. Mr. Bigelow, of Rochester, for the third Parish. 1833; Rev. Mr. Barrett of Boston, for the first Parish. N IB24, Rev. G. W. Blagden of Boston, for the Pilgrim Society. HYMNS, ODES, &c. Wiitten for the Anniversary of the Landing of the Pilgrims. Hymn for the 22d of December. Tune—* Otd Hundred.' Hail, Pilgrim Fathers of our race ! With grateful hearts, your toils we trace ; Again this Votive Day returns, And finds us bending o'er your urns. Jehovah's arm prepar'd the road ; The Heathen vanish'd at his nod : He gave his Viiie a lasting root; He loads his goodly boughs with fruit. The hills are cover'd with its shade ; Its thousand shoots like cedars spread ; Its branches to the seaexpand. And reach to broad ^Superior'* strand. Of peace and truth the gladsome ray Smiles in our skies and cheers the day; And a new Empire's 'splendent wheels Roll o'er the top of western JiHls. Hail, Pilgrim Fathers of our race ! With grateful hearts your toils we trace; Oft as this Votive Day returns. We *11 pay due honors to your urns, 29* 342 HYMNS AND ODES. Ode for the 22d of December. By Hon. John Davis. Composed for the Anniversary Festival at Plymouth, in the year 1794. Sons of renowned Sires, Join in harmonious choirs, Swell your loud songs j Daughters of peerless dames, Come with your mild acclaims, Let their revered names Dwell on your tongues. From frowning Albion's seat. See the fam'd band retreat, On ocean tost ; Blue tumbling billows roar, By keel scarce plough'd before, And bear them to this shore, Fetter'd with frost. "Ni By yon wave-beaten Rock, See the illustrious flock Collected stand ; To seek some sheltering grove. Their faithful partners move, Dear pledges of their love In either hand. Not winter's sullen face, Not the fierce tawny race In arms array'd ; Not hunger shook their faith Not sickness' baleful breath. Nor Carver's early death. Their souls dismay'd HYMNS AND ODES. 343 Water*y 2. O, 't was no ea'rth-born passion, That bade the adventurers stray ; The world and all its fashion, With them had passed away. A voice from Heaven bade them look Above the things below, When here they sought a resting-place Two hundred years ago. 3. O, dark the scene and dreary. When here they set them doAvn ;• Of storms anu billows weary. And chill'd with winter's frown. Deep moan'd the forests to the wind, Loud howPd Vhe savage foe, While here their evening prayer arose Tivo hundred years ago. 4. 'T would drown the heart in sorrow To tell of all their woes ; No respite could they borrow. But from the grave's repose. Yet nought could daunt the Pilgrim Band Or sink their courage low, Who came to plant the Gospel here Tlvo hundred years aga. 346 HYMNS AND ODES. 5. With humble prayer and fasting, In every strait anJ grief, They sought the Everlasting, And found a sure relief. Their cov'nant God o'orshadow'd them, Their shield from every foe, And gave them here a dwelling place Two hundred years ago. >^ C. Of fair New England's glory. They laid the corner-stone ; This praise, in deathless story, Their grateful sons shall own. Prophetic they foresaw in time, A mighty state should grow, From them a few^ faint Pilgrims here, Two hundred years ago. 7. If greatness be in daring, Our Pilgrim Sires were great, Whose sojourn here, unsparing. Disease and famine wait ; And oft their treach'rous foes combin'd To lay the strangers low, While founding here their commonwealth Two hundred years ago. 8. Though seeming over-zealous. In things by us deeni'd light. They were but duly jealous Of power usurping right. They nobly chose to part with all Most dear to men below, To worship here their God in peace Two hundred years ago. 9. From seeds they sowed with weeping, Our richest harvests rise. We still the fruits are reaping Of Pilgrim enterprise. HYMNS AND ODES. 347 Then grateful we to them will pay The debt of fame we owe, , Who planted here the tree of life Two hundred ysars ago, 10. As comes this period yearly, Around our cheerful fires, We 'Jl think and tell how dearly Our comforts cost our sires. For them will wake the votive song-, And bid the canvass glow, Who fix'd the home of freedom here Two hundred years ago. ODE For the Celebration of the Anniversary of the Pilgrim Society of Plymouth, December 22d, 1824. By Rev. J. Pierpont. The pilgrim fathers— where are they ? The waves that brought them o'er Still roll in the bay, and throw their spray, As they break along the shore : Still roll in the bay, as they rolled that day When the Mayflower moored below, When the sea around was black with storms, And white the shore with snow. The mists, that wrapped the pilgrim's sleep, Still brood upon the tide ; And his rocks yet keep their watch by the deep^ To stay its waves of pride ; But the snow-white sail, that he gave to the gale When the heavens looked dark, is gone : — As an angel's wing, through an opening cloudy Is se«n, aud then withdrawn. 348 HYMNS AND ODES. The pilgrim exile— sainted name ! The hill, whose icy brow- Rejoiced, w4ien he came, in the morning's flarae, In the morning's flame burns now. And the moon's cold light as it lay that night On the hill-side and the sea, Still lies where he laid his houseless head ; — But the pilgrim — where is he ? The pilgrim fathers are at rest : When Summer 's throned on high, And the world's warm breast is in verdure dressed Go, stand on the hill where they lie. The earliest ray of the golden day On that hallowed spot is cast ; And the evening sun, as he leaves the world, Looks kindly on that spot last. /The pilgrim spirit has not fled : ' It walks in noon's broad light; f i And it watches the bed of the glorious dead, With the holy stars, by night. \ It watches the bed of the brave who have bled, And shall guard this ice-l)ound shore. Till the waves of the bay, where the Mayflower lay, : Shall foam and freeze no more. Original Hymn. By Rev. S. Deane, for the '^22d of Dec, 1831 Lo ! the rising star of Freedom Once our pilgrim fathers blest ; By her light, ordained to lead them. To the land of promised rest. Star of heaven ! Star of heaven ! Trav'ling toward the distant west. HYMNS AND ODES. 349 While their countless toils enduring-, Faith the promise kept in sight : For themselves and sons securing-, Home and country, truth and light Star of heaven! Star of heaven ! Pointing to Jehovah's might. Now the relics round us lying. Grateful children guard their clay ! While their spirits, never dying, Hope has borne on wings awav : Star of heaven ! Star of heaven ! Guiding to a brighter day. Raise we honors to their merit, Temples sculptured with their name ? No! their virtues to inherit. Seals their bright and conscious fame Star of heaven ! Star of heaven ! High they shine with ceaseless flame. See the lights around us gleaming, Still to guide the pilgrims' eyes: See the star of empire beamino-, Bids their children's glory rise. Star of heaven ! Star of heaven ! Glowing still in western skies. Original Hymn. For the Dedication of the Mw Church. By Rev. J. Pierpont. 1. The winds and waves are roaring : The Pilgrin)s met for prayer ; And here, their God adoring, They stood in open air, 30 350 HYMNS AND ODES. When breaking day they greeted, And when its close was calm, The leafless woods repeated The music of their psalm. 9. Not thus, O God, to praise thee, Do we, their children throng: The temple's arch we raise thee, Gives back our choral song. Yet, on the winds that bore thee Their worship and their prayers, May ours come up before thee From hearts as true as theirs! 3. What have we. Lord, to bind us To this, the Pilgrims' shore ! — Their hill of graves behind us. Their watery way before, The wintry surge, that dashes Against the rocks they trod, Their memory, and their ashes — Be thou their guard, O God ! 4. We would not, Holy Father, Forsake this hallowed spot. Till on that shore we gather Where graves and griefs are not The shore where true devotion Shall rear no pillared shrine. And see no other ocean Than that of love divine. hymns and odes. 351 Hymn. By W. C. Bryant. Wild was the day ; the wintry sea Moaned sadly on New England's strand, When first, the thoughtful and the free, Our fathers, trod the desert land. They little thought how pure a light With years, should gather round that day ; How love should keep their memories bright, . How wide a realm their sons should sway. Green are their bays ; and greener still Shall round their spreading fame be wreathed, And regions now untrod, shall thrill With reyerence, when their names are breathed. ♦* Till where the sun, with softer fires, Looks on the vast Pacific's sleep, The children of the pilgrim sires, This hallowed day like us shall keep. Anniversary Hymn, Composed, for the Anniversary Dec. 22(i, 1834. By W. S. Russell. St. Martins.— C. M. Lo where of old the Fathers dwelt, From home and temples dear. And oft in prayer devoutly knelt. Their children would appear. And round thine altar, God of grace, With rev'rent homage stand, , Through ages past thy love to trace In this our favor'd land. 352 HY3INS AND ODES-. By faith inspir'd with steadfast mind, To shun oppression's rage, The Pilgrims here their steps inclined, Bright heralds of their age. No golden mines their visions lur'd, No cbnq'ror's pride was theirs ; The soul's pure worship once secur'd, Repays their generous cares. Here freedom's sacred altars rose,. Rear'd by the Pilgrim sires; We '11 guard them still from threat'ning foes, And light anew their fires. Great God, thine all pervading sway, Each passing age controls, , O may thy grace illume our day, .^ And ever cheer our souls. , THE ABORIGINES or INDIAN NATIVES OF NEW ENGLAND 30* THE ABORIGINES OR INDIAN NATIVES OF NEW ENGLAND. The various tribes of American Indians differed but little from each other in manners and customs, and they all formed a striking picture of the remotest antiquity. In studying the character and manners of the natives of our country, we recog- nize in some measure the antiquity of all nations, and from which some light is thrown upon many parts of ancient authors both sacred and profane. In their persons, the American In- dians were from five to six feet in height, straight in their limbs, formed in muscle for great strength and activity, and capable of enduring astonishing privations and hardships. Their fea- tures were regular, but their countenance peculiarly fierce; of a reddish, and not unpleasant complexion, their eyes black, their hair long, black, lank and strong. It was their constant practice to oil their bodies and face with fat of bears and eagles, and to paint the face with various fantastic colors, as red, black and white. The dress of the men, was the skin of a deer or wolf, though generally they were naked, except a slight cover- ing about the waist. Their moccasins were made of skins, and their snow-shoes were ingeniously cons^ucted to walk on the snow. Their women were commonly attired in beaver skins. They entertained the idea that cultivating the earth is de- grading to man, who they say was made for war and hunting, and holding council, and that " squaws and hedge hogs were made to scratch the ground." Their women therefore were held in perfect slavery, being put to all out-door drudgery as planting and weeding corn and carrying burdens, &c. while the men were indulging themselves in idleness. They called the white people " much fool to spoil their women by keeping them from out-door labor and making them lazy squaws." They manifested on all occasions a strong attachment and affection for their children. Their invariable rule for planting corn was when the leaves of the oak were of the size of a mouse's ear. They used large clam shells, or the shoulder bone of a moose 356 INDIAN HISTORY. or deer fixed to a handle, to dig the earth and weed the corn. Their wigwams were constructed with poles or young saplings set into the ground, and covered with bark and mats, the smoke passing out at the top. Their food was extremely simple; be- sides that procured by hunting and fishing, they obtained fi-om the earth, acorns, ground nuts, Indian corn, beans, pumpkins, and squashes. Whortleberries, gooseberries and strawberries, were plenty in their season. Their mode of cooking although very "Imperfect, afforded them some variety of food. Indian corn broken and boiled, they called nausamp or samp; corn when parched and reduced to powder resembling snuff, they called JYokekike or JYokahe; this article they always carried with them when travelling abroad, a little of which mixed with water would serve them for many days' support when hunting. Corn pounded to meal, and boiled, was called hominy, and corn and beans boiled together, they called succatash, and this is even now a favorite dish at our anniversary festivals and among an- tiquarians. The education of the natives from their infancy, was solely directed to fit their bodies for the endurance of the greatest hardships and privations, and to form their minds to in- flict, and to suffer the most appalling evils. It is really won- derful that the human constitution should be capable of sustain- ing such severe discipline as was on some occasions put in prac- tice. Their infants were from the birth corded down to a board and confined in one position for months in succession, and their young men who were educated for powows were forced to swallow some nauseous draught as an emetic, and when the contents of the stomach were thrown up they were obliged to swallow the same again and again till the stomach itself was almost inverted. Their chief occupations were hunting and war. When their htinting season was over, they generally loitered in their cabirti in entire indolence, and ate and drank with unbounded excess while their stores lasted. After the in- troduction of spirituous liquors among them they suffered inex- pressible miseries; they would drink without restraint, so long as they could procure liquor, and in their drunkenness they would lie exposed to the weather and perish in rivers, swamps, or tumble into the fire. They would quarrel, and frequently murder each other when intoxicated. Their war weapons were, bows, arrows and tomahawks. With their strong elastic bows' they could throw an arrow to a great distance, and strike an object with surprising precision. Their arrows were feathered with the quills of eagles and point- ed with a long sharp stone, or with bones, or eagle's claws. Their tomahawks were made of flat stone sharpened to an edge INDIAN HISTORY, 357 and fixed to a handle, they knew not the use of iron. But soon after the arrival of the English settlers, the natives were sup- plied with iron tomahawks, and even with fire arms, by the French, and some others, and taught to use them with dexterity. When prepared for vvar the appearance of a company of Indians was truly formidable; their faces were painted in a manner to give them a fierce aspect, all the hair on each side of the head was plucked out to the naked skin, and a single narrow tuft tied up on the crown, extending from the forehead to the occiput, resembling a cock's comb. After they learnt the use of fire arms, powder horns and shot bags at their backs were among their war implements. The war dance and the ceremony of smoking in brotherly concord, the pipe passing from one to another, always preceded the war engagements, and was their bond of sacred obligation. Their mode of warfare was strata- gem and ambush, taking their enemy by sudden surprise, ac- companied by the most horrific savage yells. In their assaults upon defenceless houses for conflagration and slaughter, their indiscriminate butchery was marked by savage cruelty without the least regard to humanity or mercy; and the wretched in- habitants that were captured and carried into the wilderness suffered a fate little Jess dreadful than death. Those who were too feeble to travel were murdered on their way, others when arrived at their wigwams were put into Indian families as ser- vants and a master and mistress assigned them, unless indeed they were destined to be tormented for the amusement of their savage captors. When prisoners were taken in battle they were treated differently according to existing circumstances. Had one of the tribe been slain or cap^^|p^ g prisoner either Indian or white man mio;ht have thejgQ«f(mune to be adopted in his place. But otherwise, thfi ■jf^l^i'^'^'as condemned to suffer the most cruel torment J|y^Deuig^a$t eel alive, while the savages danced around the ftre with awMl yel!s; or the prison- er's body was tortured by tearing or bitmg off the flesh, or cut- ting off the fingers and limbs by pieces, tearing out the finger nails and protracting life as long as possible that the torment may be increased and lengthened. The Indian victim suffered the most exquisite torture with a fortitude almost beyond human nature; often in defiance pointing out to his tormenters means of greater torture. It seems not to have been ascertained at what era the horrid practice of scalping victims was first introduced among the several tribes of North American Indians. It has been sup- posed by some that scalping was unknown prior to the arrival of the white settlers ;, but so early as 1608, according to Capt. 358 INDIAN HISTORY. Smith's history of the Virginia settlement, the Indians at one time killed 24 men — took off their scalps, and with the women and children prisoners returned to their village. The scalps they exhibited upon a line between two trees as a trophy. It appears that the good people of Massachusetts were not back- ward in adopting this savage custom. It is recorded that, the cruel and barbarous murders daily committed by the Indians upon the defenceless frontier inhabitants (about 1725) caused the general court of Massachusetts to offer a bounty of <£100 for every Indian's scalp. In an excursion with 40 men, Capt. Lovewell fell in with a company of ten Indians who were asleep, and killed all of them. After taking off their scalps, these 40 warriors marched to Boston in great triumph, with ten scalps extended upon hoops, displayed in a formal manner, and for which they received ^1000.* At subsequent periods, the practice of scalping was common in various parts of our coun- try, as well also as that of torture by burning alive. In the colonies, during the war between England and France in 1760, the tomahawk and scalping knife were employed by the savages in the colonies to all their victims indiscriminately of age or sex. In 1763, the natives actually " boiled and ate the body of Sir Robert Devers;" and these ba/barians of the for- est were known to scoop up the blood of their victims and drink it in savage triumph. No language indeed can paint the hor- rors of Indian warfare, nor can one listen to even a feeble de- tail of their cruelties, without a blood-boiling shudder. Their adroitness in taking off the scalp is almost incredible; havi^ng . inflicted the mortal wound with the tomahawk, the savage takes the dying hDdyJ3«|Li^|ten his knees, and with his scalping knife makes a cu^Im w^lan^ound the head.^ then seizing hold of the skin wi^Hiinw^B&|riA3 off^he entire scalp to the nak- ed skull in mimkt^^MNma&cqms instances of recovery after this dreadful operatiJI can be arf'Suced.-f The scalping In- dians have a singular method of drying the scalps, and of paint- ing on them different figures and colors designating the sex and age of the victim, and also the manner and circumstances of the murder. But the brighter shade of the Indian charac- ter is peculiarly striking. They were remarkable for gravity in their deportment upon all serious occasions; of a temper * Drake's Indian biography, pagre 237: and it is noticed that one Indian was scalped by the Chaplain. f See a remarkable.example of this in Capt. Greg related by the author, in his military journal, page 113, of this volume. INDIAN HISTORY. 359 cool and deliberate, never in haste to speak before they have thought well on the subject and are sure the person who spoke before them has finished all he had to say. They had there- fore, the greatest contempt for the vivacity of the Europeans who interrupted each other, and frequently speak altogether. It was edifying to observe their behavior in their public coun- cils and assemblies. Every one there was heard in his turn according to his years, his wisdom, or his services to his coun- try had ranked him. Their language was lofty, their sentences short, and abounding with metaphor. Not a word, not a whis- per, nor murmur was heard from the rest while one was speak- ing. No indecent contradiction, no ill-timed applause. Here the younger class were present to learn the history of their na- tion, and hear the songs of those who celebrate the war-like actions of their ancestors ; and here they were taught what belonged to the interest of their country, and the most proper means of contributing to its welfare. We know of no people amongst whom the laws of hospitality were more sacred, or executed with more generosity and good will. Has any one of them succeeded ill in his hunting? has his harvest failed? or is his wigwam burnt? He feels no other effect of his misfortune, than that it gives him an opportunity of experiencing the be- nevolence and regard of his brethren. The stranger was al- ways welcomed to the cabin of the savage and permitted to share in all the comforts which it afforded even to the last mor- sel of food, and an act of kindness received is never forgottent Instances have been known of prisoners being set free on re- collection of benefits received. The na^jg|fl|i^[ans discovered a peculiar propensity to the indulgew|jPJmHH|te tobacco. The Rev. Roger Williams saa^D' Generally'^^J the men throughout the country ha^|||^Hk|j||j|^|^2|y|^Va pipe in it hanging at his back." Ir^^HB^^^^^P^^^K it was as much a mark of friendshijSBRffer tfl^H^ ancrtobacco as in our polite circles to present a glass of wine. But to the ene- mies of his country or tribe, or to those who have privately offended, the Indian is implacable. He conceals his inten- tions, he appears reconciled, until by some treachery, or surprise, he finds an opportunity of executing an horrible revenge. He is capable of disguising his feelings, and concealing his designs, at the moment, even when he is about to plunge the dagger into the heart of his victim. No length of time is sufficient to allay his resentment; no distance of place great enough to protect the object; he crosses the steepest mountains, he penetrates the most impracticable forests, and traverses the most hideous swamps and deserts for hundreds of 360 INDIAN HISTORY. miles, bearing the inclemency of the seasons, the fatigues of the expedition, the extremes of hunger and thirst with patience and cheerfuhiess, in hopes of surprising his enemy, on whom he is prepared to exercise the most shocking barbarities, even to the eating of his flesh and drinking his blood. Notwithstand- ing their ferocity, no people have their angry passions more under their command. From their infancy they are formed with care to endure scoffs, taunts, blows, and every sort of insult patiently, or at least with a composed countenance. They es- teemed nothing so unworthy a man of sense and dignity, as a peevish temper, and proneness to a sudden gush of anger. As to their religion, they manifested very little idea of a God, though they recognise the Great Spirit in the clouds and the winds, * and seemed to acknowledge him as eternal and omnipotent, the author of the seasons and of all good; yet they render to him no kind of ^vorship. There were indeed nations in America who paid some religious homage to the sun and moon; and others who worshipped the Devil, with the hope of appeasing his anger, and of courting his friendship and protection. They appeared to have some obscure conceptions of a future state or spiritual life, and they were accustomed to bury in the graves with the dead their war implements and household utensils and orna- ments, with the belief that they will be used by the disembodied spirits. They were full in the superstitious belief of demons and fairies, and great observers of omens and dreams, and re- lied much on diviners, augurs, and magicians, in all their affairs, whether of health, war, or hunting. Their priests or powows, were their ahy^||M|^u-ho practised, for the relief of the sick, magical ceaRSHMBbncantations. They acted in the char- acter of ^^^B^?s. calling pularity was so great, that when the Pokanoket government was con- ferred on him, a multitude of his Sachems and people assem- bled, and the event was celebrated by uncommon rejoicings and revelry. According to a received tradition King Ph>lip went in 1665 to Nantucket with his retinue to kill an Indian by the name of John Gibbs, for committing sacrilege in mentioning the name of a deceased Sachem contrary to the Indian laws. He landed at the west end of the Island, intending to travel along shore to the east part of the Island where the criminal lived, who, having got information from one of his friends, fled to town and was concealed by Thomas Macy. The English iPffiUN HisTORt. 377 inhabitants then assembled, held a treaty with Philip and bought of him the criminal, and gave all the money that there was on the Island at that time, being 19 shillings, and the King return- ed in peace and was satisfied. One of the earliest measures of King Philip was, to appear with his uncle before the Plymouth court, following the example of his father and brother. (See page 119.) "He expressed an earnest wish for the continu- ance of peace and amity; and pledged himself, as the court did also upon the other hand, to use all suitable m.easures for effect- ing that desirable purpose. For several years after this, the intercourse between the two parties went on, ostensibly, as it had done in former times, though probably not without some distrust upon both sides. The first public interruption of this harmony occurred in 1671, during which season Philip was heard to complain, openly, of certain encroachments by the English upon his hunting grounds. About the same time, rumors were circulated that his sub- jects frequently assembled at various places in unwonted num- bers; and were repairing their guns, and sharpening their hatchets. The Plymouth Government were alarmed. They sent messengers to communicate with the Massachusetts Gov- ernment, and at the same time other messengers to Philip, not **to fetch him before the courts," as in the case of his brother, but to ascertain his intentions. lie seems to have paid a dig- nified regard to this measure. On the 10th of April, a mes- sage was received from him, inviting the officers of the Ply- mouth Government to a conference. It was received by the latter at Taunton, where also were several gentlemen, des- patched by the Massachusetts Government, with instructions to mediate between the contending parties. Governor Prince, of Plymouth, sent word back to Philip, who was tarrying meanwhile at what is now called Three-mile river, about four miles from Taunton Green — that he was heartily disposed to treat with him, and expected that the Sachem would come for- ward for that purpose; and his personal safety was guaranteed in case he should do so. Philip so far complied with the re- quest, as to advance a considerable distance nearer the village. He then stationed himself at a place called Grossman's Mill, placed sentinels on a hill in his rear, and again despatched mes- sengers to the Governor, desiring an interview. This the town's people, who could scarcely be restrained from falling forthwith upon the Indian party, would not permit. At last the Massa- chusetts Commissioners, volunteering to take the supposed haz- ard upon themselves, went to Philip and persuaded him to con- sent to a conference. This was on condition that his men 32* 378 INDIAN HISTORY. should accompany him, and that the business should be done in the meeting-house, one side of which was to be reserved for the Wampanoags, and the other for the English. The council took place agreeably to these arrangements, in the old meeting-house of Taunton. The English stood upon one side, solemn and stern in countenance, as they were formal in garb; and oppo- site to them, a line of Indian warriors, arrayed for battle; their long black hair hanging about their necks, and their eyes gleaming covertly with a flame of suspicion and defiance scarcely to be suppressed. Philip alone was their orator. He denied that he entertained any hostile design against the Eng- lish, and promptly explained his preparations for war, as intend- ed for defence against the Narragansets." But such argu- ments and evidence was produced as to prove his assertions to be entirely false.* This greatly surprised and intimidated him, and he then affected to admit all that was alleged against him, and though he refused to make compensation tor past aggres- sions, he and four of his counsellors subscribed an acknowledg- ment that he had violated and broken the covenant by which his father and brother before him submitted themselves to the King's Majesty of England, and to the Colony of New Ply- mouth, by taking up arms against them. After making a prop- er confession of his unfaithfulness and folly, he solemnly re- newed the covenant with his ancient friends, and the friends of his father, and as a pledge of his future faithfulness, he agreed to resign up to the government of New Plymouth all his Eng- lisharms, to be kept for their security, so long asthey might see reason. There can be no doubt but Philip had, at the time of signing this confession, war with the English in contemplation, and that the confession was a mere finesse that he might gain time to complete his preparations. In August of the same year, Philip made a visit to the Mas- sachusetts government, who he knew were u.mpires in this af- fair, and had the address to press on them the belief, that he had no hostile designs against the English, and the parties then agreed to the following articles of accommodation, September 19th, 1671. 1. We, Philip and my council, and my subjects do acknowl- edge ourselves subject to his Majesty the King of England, and the government of New Plymouth and to their laws. * For the above quotntion, I am indebted to a very respectable work, entitled " Lives of the Indians, by B. B. Thacher, Esq." Vol. i. p. 146. INDIAN HISTORY. 379 2. I am willing and promise to pay unto the government of Plymouth one hundred pounds in such things as I have; but I would entreat the favor, that I may have three years to pay it in, for as much as I cannot do it at present. 3. I do promise to send unto the governor, or whom he shall appoint, five wolves' heads, if I can get them, or as many as I can procure until they come to five wolves yearly. 4. If any difference fall between the English and my people, then I do promise to repair to the governor of Plymouth to rec- tify the difference between us. 5. I do promise not to make war with any of the Indian tribes, but with the governor of Plymouth's approbation. 6. I promise not to dispose of any of the lands that I have at present, but by the approbation of the Governor of Ply- mouth. P'or the true performance of the promises, I do hereby bind myself, and such of my council as are present, ourselves, our heirs and our successors, faithfully, in witness thereof we have hereunto subscribed our hands, the day and year above written. Philip and three others subscribed to the above by their marks. In presence of the Court and divers Magistrates, Sfc. It was not probably long after the foregoing agreement, that Philip addressed to Governor Prince the following letter, though it is without date. To the much honored governer mr. thomas prince dwelling at plimouth. honorored Sir King philip desires to let you understand that he could not come to the court for torn his interpreter has a pain in his back that he could not travel so far, and philip's sister is very sick, philip would intreat that favor of you and any of the majestrates if any english or engians speak about any land he pray you to give them no answer at all the last summer he made that promise with you that he would not sell no land in seven years time for that he would have no english trouble, him before that time he has not forgot that you promise him he will come asune as possible he can to speak with you and so I rest your very loving friend philip dwelling at mount hope nek. The late Isaac Lothrop, Esq., of Plymouth possessed the above original letter from Philip, which was probably penned by Sassaman his secretary. It was published in the Massachu- 380 INDIAN HISTORY. setts Magazine, for 1789. Judge Davis's edi. of Memorial, page 288. All these precautions however served but to protract the commencement of the contest, it having become perfectly evi- dent that either one or the other of the parties must very shortly acquire the supreme dominion; and that either the white or the red people must yield. Of the war which ensued, and which is so well known in the history of the Colonies as Philijy's War, we have the authority of Church, Hubbard, Mather, and others for the following details. There appears to have been no open hostile preparations, nor interruption of harmonious intercourse between the parties dur- ing the period of two or three years after signing the foregoing agreement by Philip, ' but during that time,' says Mr. Baylies, * Philip had the enterprise to undertake, and the address to ma- ture one of the greatest plans that was ever conceived by a savage, for the purpose of exterminating the English, it pro- posed a general union amongst the Indians of New England; — of this confederacy he was to be chief. Though the Sachem of a petty tribe, he raised himself to a prouder eminence than was ever attained by the aboriginal race in North America. The Narragansets had engaged to join Philip with their whole strength which amounted to an effective force of 4000 warriors. The spring of 1676, was the period fixed for commencing this great undertaking, but the plot was prematurely developed, and Philip was forced to commence the war before he was pre- pared, and under many disadvantages.' The first open hostilites were caused by the tragical fate of John Sassamon. He was one of the praying Indians who had received a tolerable education, was employed as an Indian preacher and schoolmaster. According to Hubbard, he was 'a cunning and plausible Indian well skilled in the English lan- guage.' He possessed however but little stability, and left the English on account of some dissatisfaction and joined Philip. Dr. I. Mather says that ' apostatizing from the profession of Christianity he lived like a heathen in the capacity of Secreta- ry to Kinff Philip.' But it was not long before he deserted his post and returned again to the English bearing with him such evident signs of repentance, that he was reconciled to the pray- ing Indians, and baptised, and received as a member into one of the Indian churches; 'yea' says Mather, 'and employed as an instructor amongst them every Lord's day.' Sassamon be- ing the confidential Secretary of JPhilip, was doubtless entrusted with his secrets, and he informed the governor of the Sachem's INDIAN HISTORT.. 381 hostile intentions, and of the plot which was ripening for the extermination of the English; but enjoining the strictest secre- cy, well aware that his life would be the forfeit if detected by Philip. The Governor and his council, resolved to send for the Sachem to appear at Plymouth, that inquiry might be made into the truth of the allegations. But he did not think proper to obey the summons, and it was soon discovered that Sassa- mon was murdered. His body was found under the ice in As- sawomset pond in Middleborough; his hat and gun were left on the ice to prevent suspicion, but the body being taken up and examined the neck was found broken, and other marks of .vio- lence were discovered. An Indian *iamed Tobias, one of Phil- ip's counsellors, his son, and another Indian were apprehended as the perpetrators of the murder. They were tried at a court holden at Plymouth in June 1675, six grave Indians being on the jury. The culprits were found guilty, condemned and ex- ecuted at Plymouth. One of them before his execution con- fessed himself guilty, but the other two denied all knowledge of the act to their last breath. There was one point of evidence given by Rev. Dr. I. Mather, that w^ould not at the present day, have the smallest influence with any jury. ' When Tobias,' says the learned Divine, 'came near the body, it fell a bleeding on fresh, as ii had been newly slain; albeit, it was buried a consider- able time before that.''* Here the reader may pause while I of- fer the following from Mr. Drake's Indian Biography, (new edition.) ' It is an error that the jury that found them guilty were half Indians.' He cites from the records as follows: — * It was judged very expedient by the court, that, together with this English jury above named, some of the most indifferent, grave and sage Indians should be admitted to be with the said jury, and to help to consult and advise with, of and concerning the premises: their names are as foUoweth, viz: one called by an English name Hope, and Maskippague, Wannoo, George Wampye and Acanootus; these fully concurred with the said jury in their verdict.' The names of the white men composing the jury were William Sabine, William Crocker, Edward Stur- gis, William Brooks, Nathaniel Winslow, John Wadsworth, Andrew Ringe, Robert Vixon, John Done, Jonathan Bangs, Jonathan Shaw, and Benjamin Higgins. Thus it appears that the jury was composed of twelve white men conjointly with four Indians. Their verdict was, 'Wee of the jury one and all, both English and Indians doe jointly *The body was buried and after some days disinterred that it might be more particularly examined. 382 INDIAxV HISTORY. and with one consent agree upon a verdict.' 'This execution so exasperated King Philip, that from that day after he studied to be revenged on the English, judging that the English au- thority had nothing to do to hang an Indian for killing another.' It was the intention of Philip that the war should take place the next year, when he and his allies would he fully prepared; but immediately after the above unhappy event, great prepara- tions were made on both sides for a sanguinary warfare. Early in the spring of 1675, the Pokanokets were observed in arms about Mount Hope, and the neighboring tribes were collecting, and^it was not long before a party of Indians offered some in- sult to an Englishman at Swansey, who discharged his musket and wounded one of them. Thus the tragedy was opened June 24th, 1675, upon a fast day, and the people were fired upon on their return from meeting by the Indians. One person was killed, and two wounded; two others, going for a surgeon, were killed, and in another part of the town six others were killed the same day. To ravage, burn and destroy, seemed now to be the design of the sava^je tribes. The town of Swan- sey, a part of Taunton, Middleborough, and Dartmouth, were soon burnt and the inhabitants dispersed. Philip had formed alliances with such' numerous tribes of savages, that he was enabled to assemble a formidable force, menacing all New Eng- land with destruction. The English now resorted to all possi- ble means for defence. In every town houses were surrounded with palisades and strongly garrisoned for the security of fami- lies, yet tragical scenes kept the inhabitants in constant alarm. Dwelling houses, although garrisoned, were consumed, and men, women and children cruelly butchered by savage hands. An armed force among the colonies was deemed indispensable, and troops were raised in the following proportion: Massachu- setts Colony, 557; Plymouth, 158; Connecticut, 315. Gen- eral Josiah Winslow was appointed commander-in-chief of the army, and Captain James Cudworth commanded the Plymouth forces. The instructions to General Winslow, by the commis- sioners of the United Colonies, were as follow: ' You are, at the time appointed, to march with all convenient speed, with the forces under your command, to the Narragan- set country, or to the place where the head-quarters or chief rendezvous of the enemy is known to be. And having ac- quainted your officers and soldiers with your commission and power, you shall require their obedience thereunto; and see that they be governed according to rules military, that all profane- ness and disorder in your camp and quarters be avoided as much as in you lyeth, and impartially punish the breaking forth there- of in any. INDIAN HISTORY. 383 * You are to see that the worship of God be I^ept up and duly attended in the army, by daily prayer and invocation of his name, and preaching of his word, as you have opportunity; and the Sabbath be not profaned, but that, as. much as in you lies, and the emergency of your services will admit, you take care it be duly sanctified, and your ministers respect it. ' You shall, by all means possible, endeavor to secure any of our English plantations, or any of the colonies, that may be pressed and endangered by the enemy, and improve your utter- most care, caution and diligence, by policy and force, to dis- cover, pursue, encounter, and, by the help of God, to vanquish and subdue the cruel, barbarous and treacherous enemy, wheth- er Philip Sachem and his Wampanoags, or the Narragansets, his undoubted allies, or any other of their friends and abettors. ^ In pursuance hereof, we also advise and order, that you be very careful in your marches in or near the enemy's country, by keeping out scouts and forlorns before the army, to prevent and avoid the ambuscades of the enemy, that sentinels be at all times careful of their duty, and all soldiers be made constantly to keep their arms very fix and clean, fit for service. * And that you endeavor as silently and suddenly to surprise the enemy as you can, and if possible draw or force them to en- gagement, and therein to do valiantly for the honor of God and our nation, and the interest of the country; and you encourage valor in any, and severely punish cowardice. ^ That if the enemy offer treaty, you trust them not to the loss of any promising advantage; nor take their words, or subscrip- tion to any engagement, without further assurance of arms, good hostages, &c. 'You shall consult those commanders and gentlemen appoint- ed to be of your council in matters of moment, when opportu- nity permits, for the well management of the design. 'You shall diligently improve your time for the speedy effect- ing of this expedition, and use all means possible to cut off and hinder supplies of provision to the enemy and to secure your own. ' That you order the commissaries for provision and stores to be careful there be no waste nor embezzlement therein, nor want of what is meet to any. ' And you are, from time to time, to give us full and particular intelligence of your proceedings, and how the Lord shall please to deal with you in this expedition. General Winslow was peculiarly qualified for the important station to which he was appointed. He possessed ability and integrity, and his bravery and heroism were tempered with pru- dence and discretion. 384 INDIAN HISTORY. A ravaging warfare was kept up by the Indians during the summer, by which several towns were destroyed, and many in- habitants slain or captured. At the close of the year 1675, the English were reduced to the dreadful alternative of an active campaign against the perfidious and powerful enemy in the depth of winter. It was no longer doubted that the Narraganset tribe was in secret alliance with Philip, and united with him in the plan to attack and destroy the whole English settlements, hav- ing become bold and open in their conduct. The commission- ers of the United Colonies, deeming it of the highest import- ance to anticipate their enemies, and frustrate their plans, or- dered that the army under General Winslow should be pre- pared for active service by the 10th of December. The second day of December was appointed to be ' observed and kept as a solemn day of prayer and humiliation, to supplicate the- Lord's pardoning mercy and compassion towards his poor people, and for success in the endeavors for repelling the rage of the en- emy.' The army consisted of from 1500 to 2000 men, includ- ing volunteers and Indians, and a troop of horse, under com- mand of Capt. Thomas Prentice. The Massachusetts forces were divided into six companies, commanded by Captains Mose- ly, Gardiner, Davenport, Oliver, and Johnson, and Major Ap- pleton. Those of Connecticut were commanded by Major Treat, who had under him Capt. Seily, Gallop, Mason, Watts, and Marshall. The Plymouth forces were commanded by Major William Bradford as chief, and Capt. John Gorham. It was unfortunate that Capt, Church, in consequence of some previous misunderstanding with the government, was prevented having a command on this occasion; but, at the particular desire of the commander-in-chief, he acted as a volunteer. The Narragan- set country, in which were to be the war operations, was almost an entire wilderness, and Philip's fort was located in South Kings- ton, Rhode Island, in an immense swamp, in the centre of which was a piece of high land, comprising about five or six acres. The fortification was formed by high palisades encircling the whole of the high land. The palisades were encompassed by a thick and almost impenetrable hedge of fallen trees, with their branches pointing outwards, of almost a rod in width. At one corner there was an opening, where a large fallen tree was placed, rising four or five feet from the ground, but this entrance was defended by a sort of block-house, and by flankers at the sides. The common entrance into this fort was by passing on a tree which had been thrown over a body of deep water between the fort and the main land, which could be done only in single file. Within this strong enclosure, the Indians had erected INDIAN HISTORY. 385 about five hundred wigwams of superior construction, intended for the winter quarters of their whole people, men, women and children. Here they had deposited a large quantity of pro- visions, and baskets and tubs of corn were so piled one upon another as to afford additional defence against the English bul- lets. It was estimated that not less than 3000 people had collect- ed here as their safe retreat. The warriors were armed with bows and arrows, muskets and tomahawks. On the 18th of December, 1675, General Winslow's army marched to attack Philip and his Narraganset allies in their strong fort; the weath- er was cold and stormy, and the snow more than ankle deep on the ground. The house on their route in which they expected to quarter that night, was burnt down by the Indians before their arrival, and tliey were destitute of shelter during the night. At the dawn of day they resumed their march of fifteen miles, and at one o'clock reached the margin of the swamp, and hav- ing no shelter from the inclemency of the weather, and being short of provisions, they resolved to make an immediate attack. Not an Englishman was acquainted with the situation of the In- dian fort; but it was their good fortune that a few days before, about thirty-five of Philip's men were captured by Capt. Mose- ly, among whom was one named Peter ^ who turned traitor and undertook to guide the army through the intricate paths to the seat of his Sachem. The assault commenced, the Indians at the margin of the swamp were driven to their strong hold, and the troops without regular order rushed impetuously to the bar- riers of the fort; the officers and men were intermixed, but they faced death with astonishing boldness and courage. The gal- lant Captains, Johnson and Davenport, with a number of their men, were soon seen to fall, and as one after another was swept off* at the narrow passage by the enemy's fire, others supplied the place of the slain. Overwhelmed by the deadly fire, there was a momentary recoil, and the troops throwing themselves down with their faces to the ground, the bullets passed over them. Two other companies advancing, were also compelled to retieat; but animated by the exhortations and exertions of Gen- eral Winslowand Major Appleton, the soldiers were rallied and again resumed the conflict. A few officers and men had now forced their way into the fort, and here commenced personal combat hand to hand. At this moment a voice was heard, * they run ! they run .'' This operated like enchantment on the English, and a general rush through the barriers ensued; the Indians were driven from their posts at all points, and from wig- wam to wigwam, in great confusion. An immense slaughter took place; neither men^ women nor children were spared; all 33 386 INDIAN HISTORY, were hewn down, and the ground was encumbered with heaps of the slain. In the midst of this awful fight, fire was commu- nicated to their wigwams, when the howlings and yells of the savages were mingled with the roar of musketry, the raging of consuming fire, and the screams of the women and children, altogether forming a scene inconceivably appalling to humanity. The battle continued for three hours with unexampled ferocity and obstinacy; quarters were neither asked nor received, but carnage and death were the order of the day. The whole army, oflScers and men, fought with undaunted courage; the captains led their men to the conflict, and continued at their head till they received the fatal ball. Captain Church, always brave and never inactive, by permission led the second party that en- tered the fort, and while within, he was struck at the same in- stant with three bullets from a party of the enemy. He received a severe wound on his thigh, and another slight wound, but the third bullet struck against a pair of thick woollen mittens, which were doubled in his pocket, which saved him from a third wound. For some time after the fort was in possession of the English, the combatants in various parts of the swamp continued the work of slaughter. The English being masters of the fort, it became a question whether to hold possession of it for the pres- ent, or to abandon it immediately. General Winslow and Cap- tain Church were decidedly in favor of holding possession; as the darkness of night was approaching, the troops might find shelter in- the wigwams that were not burnt, and avail them- selves of the Indians' provisions, which they greatly needed. But this measure was violently and very improperly opposed by one of the Captains and a surgeon, probably from the appre- hension that the Indians might rally their forces, and drive them from the fort in their turn. The surgeon asserted that unless the wounded were removed that night, it could not be effected the next day, when their wounds would be inflamed and pain- ful; and turning to Captain Church, whose blood was then flow- ing from his wounds, impudently said to him, ' that if he gave such advice, he should bleed to death like a dog, before he would endeavor to staunch his blood.' It was now decided to quit the ground, which was done with some precipitation, leav- ing eight of their dead in the fort. It was indeed a cruel dilem- ma, affer fighting three hours, to be compelled to march sixteen miles through the snow, and in a most boisterous night, before they could halt, and the wounded could be dressed; and it is not strange that many of the wounded died before they could reach their destined quarters. Thus ended the memorable .Xarraganset Swamp Fight; and the victory on the side of the INDIAN HISTORY. 387 English was purchased at the high price of eighty men killed, and one hundred and fifty wounded. Six brave captains were killed, viz.: Davenport, Gardiner, Johnson, Gallop, Seily, and Marshall. Lieutenant Upharn was mortally wounded, and Cap- tain John Gorham, of Barnstable, died of a fever on the expedi- tion. The number of Indians slain is uncertain; but Hubbard says it was confessed by Potock, a great counsellor amongst them, who was taken and executed, that seven hundred fight- ing men were slain, and three hundred wounded, the most of whom died. The number of old men, women and children, burnt in their wigwams, and that died from hunger and cold, must have been immense. When General Winslow arrived at his quarters at Wickford, four hundred of his soldiers besides the wounded were rendered unfit for duty, and many of them were frost-bitten. The snow that fell during that night rendered travelling almost impracti- cable. An Englishman, named Joshua Tift, a stupid, uneducated man, who had abandoned his countrymen, and deserted to the Indians, married an Indian woman, and conformed himself to their habits. This man was captured by Captain Fenner, and after confessing that he had supplied the Indians with powder and had fought on their side in the fort, was condemned to death, hung, and quartered, as a traitor. This miserable wretch was found as ignorant as an heathen, never having heard the name of Jesits Christ. In the spring of 1676, a predatory warfare was kept up by Philip and his followers in various parts of the country. On the 12th of March, the garrison house of William Clark, at Eel river, in the town of Plymouth, was attacked by a party of In- dians on the Sabbath, when most of the men were gone to meet- ing, and eleven persons were killed, and the house consumed. The house, with two or three others, had been fortified for the security of families in that neighborhood. It stood on the west side of the road, near the spot where the dwelling house of the Rev. Mr. Whitmore has recently been erected. Among the sufferers in this tragedy was a boy, who received several toma- hawk wounds on the skull, and was left for dead, but he recov- ered, and afterwards wore a plate of silver over the wound, from which he was distinguished by the name of Silver-HeacJed Tom during life. Totoson and Tispequin, two noted chiefs in Philip's war, were engaged in this cruel massacre, although they had often received much kindness at Clark's house. May 11th, the Indians made an attack on a settlement in that part of Plymoutli which is now Halifax. The inhabitants being 388 INDIAN HISTORY. suddenly alarmed, fled with their families; the savages burnt eleven houses and five barns; and two days after, seven houses and two barns. Captain Church, although only a volunteer in the service, was constantly alert, even when he could not mount his horse without assistance, in consequence of his wounds. At onetime a friendly Mohegan captured one of Philip'^s Indians, and brought him before the General. Some of the GeneraFs at- tendants proposed that he should be tortured, in order to elicit a discovery of the haunts of his countrymen; against this propo- sition Church vehemently remonstrated, and this barbarous pro- ceeding was prevented, but the captive was given up to the Mo- hegan, who was permitted to put him to death. Desirous to avoid the scene, Church withdrew. The Mohegan, striking at his victim with his tomahawk, missed his blow, and the weapon escaped from his hand; the prisoner broke from his keepers, and ran directly upon Church, who was standing amongst the baggage horses. In the impulse of the moment Church seized him, but the Indian, being nearly naked, eluded his grasp, and ran on; although Church was much disabled by his wound^s, he pursued, and the Indian stumbling, fell to the ground. Church seized him again, and again the Indian escaped, still pursued by Church, who at length seized him by his hair and held him fast. At this time they were at some distance from the others, and a deadly struggle commenced. The Indian was stout and athletic, and Church was weakened by his wounds; yet his in- domitable spirit enabled him to maintain the contest with some equality. The ice began to crack, and steps were heard; both were uncertain whether of friend or foe. It was the Mohegan; but it was now so dark, that the combatants could not be dis- criminated. The Mohegan, ascertaining his victim by his nakedness, drove his tomahawk into his brains, and relieved Church from his perilous situation. On the 1 1th of July, Philip attempted to surprise Taunton, but was repulsed. Captain Church was in constant pursuit of this cunning Sachem, who, in his turn, used many stratagems not only to elude, but to cut off his antagonist, and followed him from place to place without success, but with the loss of many of his people. Some soldiers from Bridgewater fell upon Philip's camp, near Taunton river, July 31st, and killed ten war- riors; but Philip, having disguised himself, made his escape. His uncle, Akompoin, was among the slain, and his own sister was captured. On the 1st of August, Church attacked his head quarters, killed and took about 130 of his people, but the wily Sachem again escaped; but his wife, and son, about nine years INDIAN HISTORY. 389 bid, fell into the hands of Captain Church, and were brought to Plymouth. Philip, although he had lost most of his warriors and friends, and was left almost alone, had the address for a long time to elude the vigilance of his pursuers. At length, finding himself harrassed to the last extremity, in July he re- sorted to a thick swamp near Mount Hope for concealment, and while here, put to death one of his men for advising him to make peace. On Saturday morning, August 12th, Captain Church ap- proached with a party of volunteers, surrounded the swamp on all sides, and so disposed of his men as to render his escape impossible. Church then ordered Captain Golding to rush into the swamp; upon which, Philip, finding himself closely pressed on one side of the swamp, attempted to escape from the oppo- site, and came out where Caleb Cook, of Plymouth colony, and a Jaconet Indian, named Alderman, were posted. Cook in- stantly levelled his gun, but it missed fire. Alderman, whose gun was loaded with two balls, fired, and Philip, bounding from the ground, fell flat upon his face in the mud and water, with his gun under him, one of the balls having passed through his heart, and the other into his lungs. * The barbarous usage of beheading and quartering traitors, was now executed upon the body of the unfortunate Philip. His head was brought to Plymouth on thanksgiving day rn great triumph, where it was exposed to public view for more than twenty years, and one of his hands was preserved in rum by Alderman, who afterwards exhibited it through, the country. * Thus fell Metacomet,' says Mr. Baylies, 'some times called * There is in the Historical Society's Collection, vol iv. second series, an anecdote respecting the lock of the gun with which King Philip was killed, as follows : The late Isaac Lothrop, of Plymouth, obtained the lock of Sylva- iius Cook, late of Kingston. Sylvanus was great grandson of Caleb Cook, and Caleb was the soldier placed with an Indian by Colonel Church to watch, and, if possible, kill King Philip. Cook, as the historian relates, snapped his gun, but it missed fire. He then bade the Indian fire, and he instantly shot him through the heart. The tradition is, that Cook, having a strong desire to possess the gun with which Philip was killed, prevailed on the Indian to exchanore guns with him ; and the fortunate gun has been preserved in the family of the Cooks to the present time. When the great grandson consented that Mr. Lothrop should take the lock, he retained the other parts as memorials of the interesting event. The gun lock was, by Dr. Nathaniel Lothrop, late of this town, presented to Rev^ John Lothrop, of Boston, and by him to the Historical Society. 33* 390 INDIAN HISTORY. Pumatarkeam, the Sachem of Mount Hope, or Pokanoket, bet- er known by his English name Philip^ the most illustrious savage of North America, the most powerful enemy that wa& ever encountered by the English settlers, and who came near exterminating the whole English race in New England.' Philip was unquestionably a man of superior talents, a great warrior, and a mighty chief, in whom rested the confidence and hope of the confederated tribes. On close examination of his character, it will appear that he possessed some virtues which ought to have inspired his enemies with respect, some traits of a benev- olent heart which should be remembered with gratitude. But unfortunately for his memory, his character could be written only by his enemies, who in noticing his victories were obliged to record their own defeats, and whose prejudice naturally led to a false coloring of motives and actions. In Philip*s charac- ter were combined the attributes of the patriot and hero, and it is unjust that his stern courage, and unconquerable spirit, should be regarded as mere savage ferocity. This celebrated chief was led by his sagacious mind to anticipate the impending fate of his race. The English were constantly increasing in num- bers and strength, they were in possession of a considerable portion of the Indian territories, and the expulsion of the ab- origines from the land of their fathers must inevitably be the consequence. Base indeed would have been his conduct had not Philip made every possible effort in favor of the preserva- tion of his people. No chief of a numerous and powerful nation would tamely submit to annihilation without a struggle. His patriotic spirit was excited into action, and the noble deeds which he performed in 1676, in defence of his unfortunate peo- ple, would not suffer in comparison with those of the renowned heroes in our own cause in 1776, to whom has justly been award- ed a large share of honor and fame. Had Philip been the con- queror instead of the vanquished, the whole race in this coun- try would have celebrated his name with enthusiasm, and en- twined round his brow laurels like those which have adorned the names of some of the most renowned heroes of antiquity. Who shall discern the difference between the noble heroism, and the loftiness of spirit, which is laudably displayed by the patriot in civilized life, and the same active virtues when glow- ing in the breast of the ignorant, untutored son of the forest.'' From the death of Philip may be dated the extinction of his tribe, and eventually the aboriginal race in New England. The termination of the sanguinary Indian war was an event of the utmost importance to the colonies, as during its con- tinuance of about two years, they suffered a loss of thirteen INDIAN HISTORY. 391 towns in all the colonies, six hundred dwelling houses burnt, and six hundred men slain in the flower of their strength; so that almost every family in New England was called to mourn the loss of a relation or friend. The mode of warfare practised by Philip and his followers, by burning the habitations, and their murderous assaults upon the inhabitants, could not fail of spreading through the land in- expressible terror and dismay. It can therefore be no matter of surprise that a vindictive and bitter spirit was excited among the English colonists against their enemies, but we have to lament the want of charity and candor in that eminent divine, Dr. Increase Mather. In speak- ing of the efficacy of prayer for the destruction of the Indians, he says, ' Nor could they cease crying to the Lord against Philip until they had prayed the bullet into his heart.' Speak- ing of the slaughter of Philip's people at Narraganset, he says, * We have heard of two and twenty Indian captains, slain, all of them brought down to hell in one day.' Again referring to a chief who had sneered at the christian religion, and who had ^ withal, added a most hideous blasphemy, immediately upon which a bullet struck him in the head and dashed out his brains, sending his cursed soul in a moment amongst the devils, and blasphemers in hell forever.* When true religion warms the heart into philanthropy, there will be no rejoicing at the sacrifice of the lives of human beings, nor complacency in sanguinary revenge. The enormities of the Indians cannot justify enormities among christians, who be- ing blessed with high intellect, should set before them examples of mildness and humanity. It is true that Philip, following the injunction and example of his father, was strongly opposed to the christian religion. Their own forms of religious worship were probably no less precious to th6m than the christian reli- gion was to their opposers. When Rev. Mr. Eliot urged upon Philip the great importance of the gospel, he, taking hold of a button on his coat replied, that he cared no more for the gos- pel than he did for that button. Dr. Mather, in the year 1700, says, ' it was not long, before the hand which now writes, upon a certain occasion took off the jaw from the exposed skull of that blasphemous leviathan; and the renowned Samuel Lee hath since been a pastor to an English congregation, sounding and showing the praises of heaven, upon that very spot of ground, where Philip and his Indians were lately worshipping of the devil.' From the above data it appears that Philip's skull re- mained exposed 24 years or more. The rage for war manifested by the natives, was by Dr 392 tNDIAK HISTORY. Math6f and others ascribed to the influence of a diabolical spirit, and the Rev. Divine speaks of them in the phraseology of the times as if they were unworthy of christian sympathy. In a review of the treatment of the Indian prisoners by th^ colonists, the inquiry naturally arises to what extent the inflic- tion of capital punishment could be considered as justifiable and proper. The position is allowed to be correct that a conquered foe should be rendered incapable of committing further enormi- ties; retaliation nevertheless should be tempered with clemen- cy, and human lives should be sacrificed no further than the public safety demands. The major part of the Indian prison- ers, both old and young, of both sexes, were condemned to a punishment little less cruel than death, that of being sold into perpetual slavery; some were transported to Europe and to Bermudas, and others were domesticated among the English families. The principles of humanity as understood in more modern times would raise the public voice against such pro- ceedings, unless the real safety of the conquerors rendered it indispensable. The punishment of death was inflicted on a number of the most notorious murderers of defenceless families and individuals. Eleven savages of this description were cap- tured in July, 1676, four of whom were executed at Plymouth, and others at Boston. The base miscreants who assaulted the house of Mr. Clark at Plymouth and massacred the inhabitants, were justly excepted from mercy or quarter. After the death of Philip, the government appointed a day of thanksgiving, and they awarded to Captain Church the miser- able pittance of 30s. for each Indian captured and killed, for his invaluable services and imminent perils to which he had ex- posed himself for the benefit of the public. The remains of Philip's forces were now commanded by Annawan, long noted for his savage ferocity and numerous murders. He was one of Philip's great captains, and he narrowly escaped with 50 or 60 men from the swamp when Philip was killed. Wolf-like, he was prowling in the wilderness and rushing from his secret haunts to devour and destroy. The brave Captain Church was now desired to raise a small party of volunteers to hunt for this savage in the forests and swamps. His former worthy lieutenant, Jabez Howland, and a few of his old soldiers as- sured him that they would hunt with hira as long as there was an Indian left in the woods. A few prisoners were soon taken, who informed that Annawan was ranging from swamp to swamp, never lodging * twice in a place.' Church, calling his few men together, inquired, whether they would willingly go with him and give Annawan a visit.* ' All answered in the affirmative, INDIAN HISTORY. 393 but reminded him that they knew this Captain Annawan was a great soldier, that he had been a valiant Captain under Philip's father; and that he had been Philip's chieftain all this war.' And further, that he was a very subtle man, of great resolution, and had often said, that he would never be taken alive by the English. They moreover reminded Captain Church that the soldiers who were with Annawan were resolute fellows, some of Philip's chief soldiers, and they very much feared that to make the attempt with such a small number, would be hazardous in the extreme. Mr. Cook, belonging to Plymouth, being asked by Church what was his opinion of the undertaking, replied, — ' I am never afraid of going any where when you are with me.' Captain Church, with unshaken resolution remarked to them, ^That he had a long time sought for Annawan but in vain,' and doubted not in the least but Providence would protect them. Church, with his small party consisting of six Indians, and Cook, the only Englishman, proceeded and soon captured one of Annawan 's Indians, and a girl, who consented to conduct them to the retreat of Annawan, and his company of 50 or 60 men. Their den was situated in Rehoboth, about eight miles from Taunton green, in an immense swamp of nearly 3,000 acres, ia which was a small piece of upland, covered almost entirely by an enormous rock, which is still called Jinnau'an''s rock. This on one side presents an almost perpendicular precipice of 25 or .SO feet in height, on the other side it was less inaccessible and Church with two of his Indians ascended to its summit, from which he discovered the object of his pursuit, and his whole company by the light of their fires. They were divided into three parties laying at a short distance from each other; their guns leaning against a cross stick and covered from the weather by mats. Over their fires their supper was cooking. To any other man than Church a descent into this infernal den would be deemed an act of unjustifiable rashness. To him indeed the attempt was appalling, a forlorn hope, for if in sliding down the rock he should be discovered, instant death would be his fate, and if he should reach their camp with his six Indians and one Englishman, what would prevent the immediate sacrifice of the whole party.'' Church, however, being a man of religious zeal and full in the faith of the protection of Divine Providence, re- solved on the perilous ;experirnent. Hearing the noise of pounding corn in a mortar in the Indian camp, he thought it might favor his movements. He ordered his Indian prisoner, and his daughter, who were well acquainted with the place to lead the way, with their baskets at their backs as they had often done before, and Church and his men followed close in their 394 INDIAN HISTORY. rear; holding on by the bushes that grew from the fissures of the rock, resting when the pounding ceased and advancing when that was renewed. Church suddenly leaped from the rock into the midst of his enemies, unharmed, with his tomahawk in his hand; instantly the old captain Annnwan started up cry- ing out ' HjwoIij I am taken.' Church and his men immediate- ly secured their arms, and then calling on all the Indians to submit, who in their panic, supposed the English far more nu- merous than they were, yielded themselves as prisoners, and to prevent their making resistance they were told that Captain Church had encompassed them with his army, and that resist- ance would be in vain, but if they submitted peaceably they should receive good treatment. To this they readily consented, and surrendered up their guns and hatchets. Having thus far settled this great affair. Church asked Annawan, what he had for supper, saying, ' I am come to sup with you.' Annawan replied, ' Sanbut,' and ordered his women to provide supper for Captain Church and his company, inquiring whether he would eat cow beef or horse beef; he replied cow beef Church and his little party remained in the Indian camp during the night, in the midst of his prisoners, being in number ten to one of his own men, but without sleep although he had not slept for the last 36 hours. His men were soon asleep, but Annawan was awake. Finding that Annawan could converse in the Eng- lish language, they held much conversation together for more than an hour, when the chief retired, and being absent some time, Church became very anxious, suspecting some ill design. But he returned and falling on his knees before him, he thus addressed Church in English, "Great Captain, you have kill- ed Philip, and conquered his country, for I believe that I and my company are the last that war against the English; so sup- pose the war is ended by your means; and therefore these things belong to you." He then presented him with what he said was Philip's royalties, with which he was wont to adorn himself when he sat in state, and he thought himself happy in having an opportunity to present them to him. The first was a beautifully wrought belt nine inches in breadth, and of such length, that when put about the shoulders of Captain Church it reached to his ancles. This was considered at that time of great value, being embroidered all over with wampum of vari- ous colors, curiously wrought into figures of birds, beasts and flowers. The second belt was also of exquisite workmanship, with which Philip used to ornament his head, and from which flowed two flags which decorated his back. A third belt was a smaller one, with a star upon the end of it, which he wore upon INDIAN HISTORY. 395 his breast. All these were edged with red hair, which Anna- wan said was got in the country of the Mohawks.* To these splendid regalia were added two horns of glazed power and a red cloth blanket. The next morning, Church marched with his prisoners for Taunton; on their way they met with Lieutenant Howland, according to appointment, who was not a little sur- prised at this great exploit, having despaired of ever seeing him again alive. Church kept Annawan under his protection and conducted him to Plymouth as a prisoner of no small importance. *Thus,' says Baylies, ' was this most daring enterprise success- fully achieved by the prowess of one man. The capture of Annawan terminated the war, for all the subsequent expeditions were in pursuit»of flying and skulking enemies. The English race in New England was saved from destruction, and placed in safety; for this great service Church received the thanks of the General Court of Plymouth, and nothing else! And he had also the mortification to find all his entreaties and prayers for the life of Annawan utterly disregarded, and this unfortu- nate chief, the last of the New England Indians, was beheaded at Plymouth — a dastardly act which disgraced the Government.' After this service. Captain Church induced Tispequin, another distinguished chief, to surrender himself as a prisoner. Tispe- quin was a noted Pawaw, and had impressed his simple people with the notion that his person was invulnerable to bullets ! When he surrendered. Church, thinking he might be useful to him, invited him to join his service, and encouraged him that his life would be spared, and that he would make a captain of him. ' He came in,' says Mr. Hubbard, ' upon hopes of being made a captain under Church, but upon trial (which was the condition on which his being promised a captain's place did de-^ * Mr. Josselyn in his account of two voyages to New England^ saysof the Indians, 'Their beads are their money ; of these, there are two sorts, blue beads and white beads ; the first is their gold, the last is their silver. These they work out of certain shell?, so cun- ningly that neither Jetv nor Devil can counterfeit. They drill them and string them, and make curious works with them, to adorn the persons of their Sagamores and principal men, and young women, as belts, girdles, tablets, borders for their women's i)air. bracelets, necklaces, and links to hang in their ears. Prince Philip, a little before I came away for Eni» land, (1671,) coming to Boston, had a coat on and buskins set thick with these beads, in pleasant wild works, and a broad belt of the same ; his accoutrements were valued at £20.' 'The English merchant giveth them 10s. a fathom for their white, and as much more, or near upon for their blue beads.' See descrip- tion of Wampum in first part of this vol. 396 INDIAN HISTORY. pend) he was found penetrable by the English guns, for he fell down upon the first shot, and thereby received the just reward of his former wickedness.' Respecting this extraordinary transaction, so irreconcilable with the laws of honor and pro- bity, Judge Davis makes the following just remarks: — 'This pitiful evasion, it may be hoped, belongs v/holly to the histori- an; we are unwilling to believe that the authorities of the coun- try would have resorted to such unworthy equivocation.' But an interesting inquiry is, what was the destined fate of King Philip's son? It appears that government were not prepared to dispose of this innocent youth, without the opinion and advice of learned Divines. The Rev, Mr. Cotton, of Plymouth, and the Rev. Mr. Arnold, of Marshfield, rendered their united opin- ion to the following purport: — -' They humbly conceive, on se- rious consideration, that children of notorious traitors, rebels, and murderers, especially of such as have been principal lead- ers, and actors in such horrid villainies, and that against a whole nation, yea, the whole Israel of God, may be involved in the guilt of their parents, and may, Salva republica, be adjudged to death, as to us seems evident by the scripture instances of Said, Acfian, Hainan, the children of whom were cut off by the sword of justice for the transgressions of their parents, although, con- cerning some of those children, it be manifest that they were not capable of being co-actors therein.' The opinion of the Rev. Increase Mather, in a letter to Mr. Cotton, October 30th, 1676: ' If it had not been out of my mind when I was writing, I should have said something about Philip's son. It is necessary that some effectual course should be taken about him. He makes me think of Hadad, who was but a little child when his father, (the chief Sachem of the Edomites) was killed by Joab; and had not others flsd away with him, I am apt to think that David would have taken a course, that Hadad should never have proved a scourge to the next generation.' But the Rev. James Keith, of Bridgewater, interposed as a more auspicious pleader in the cause of" human- ity. In a letter to Mr. Cotton, he says, * I long to hear what became of Philip's wife and son. I know there is some diffi- culty in that Psalm, 137, 8, 9, though I think it may be consid- ered whether there be not specialities, and somewhat extraordi- nary in it. That law, Deut. 24. 16, compared with the com- mended example of Amaziah, 2d Cron. 24. 4, doth sway much with me, in the case under consideration. I hope God will di- rect those whom it doth concern to a good issue. Let us join our prayers at the throne of grace with all our might, that the Lord W04ild so dispose of all public motions and affairs, thai his INDIAN HISTORY. 397 Jerusalem, in this wilderness, may be the habitation of justice, and the mountain of holiness, that so it may be, also, a quiet habitation, a tabernacle that shall not be taken down.' Mr. Keith was happy in his reference to 2d Ghron.: ' But he slew not their children, but did as it is written in the law in the book of Moses,' &c. It is consoHng to our feelings to know that in the issue of this singular discussion, the life of the innocent boy was spared, although that life was fur a price doomed to slavery. We readily coincide with Hon. Judge Davis in the following senti- ment. ^ The question, thus seriously agitated, would not, in modern times, occur in any nation in Christendom. Principles of public law, sentiments of humanity, the mild influence of .the gospel, in preference to a recurrence to the Jewish dispen- sation, so much regarded by our ancestors in their delibera- tions and decisions, would forbid the thought of inflicting pun- ishment on children for the offences of a parent,' — Memorial, Jlp. p. 455. Perhaps one exception may be admitted in the above remark, that of the unfortunate French Dauphin, in 1793. Sam Barrow was a famous warrior in Philip's war, and for a long time dreaded as a ferocious enemy by the inhabitants. He was at length captured by Captain Church at Cape Cod. Church, in his history, says, that ' he was as noted a rogue as any among the enemy.' Church told him that the government would not permit him to grant him quarter, because of his in- human murders and barbarities, and therefore ordered him to prepare for execution. Barrow replied, that the sentence of death against him was just, and that indeed he was ashamed to live any longer, and desired no more favor than to smoke a whifF of tobacco before his execution. When he had taken a few whifl^s, he said, ' I am ready,' when one of Church's In- dians, being prepared, sunk his hatchet into his brains. The Rev. Roger Williams was a staunch friend to the natives, and was a great favorite among them. In Drake's Indian Biog- raphy is published a manuscript letter from this gentleman to the Governor of Massachusetts, dated Providence, 5. 8. 1654 which is as follows: * At my last departure for England, I was importuned by ye Narraganset Sachems, and especially by JS'enecmmnt , to present their petition to the high Sachem of England, that they might not be forced from their religion; and for not changing their re- ligion, be invaded by war. For they said they were daily vis- ited with threatenings by Indians, that came t>om about Mas- sachusetts; that if they would not pray, they should be destroy- ed by war.' ' Ai'e not all the English Qi|||)Ag land, (generally) 34 398 INDIAN HISTORY. a persecuted people from their native soil? and hath not the God of peace and the father of mercies made the natives more friendly in this than in our native countrymen in our own land I to us? have they not entered leagues of love, and lo this day- continued peaceable commerce with us? are not our families grown up in peace amongst them? upon which I humbly ask, how it can suit with christian ingenuity, to take hold of some seeming occasions for their destruction?' These primitive sons of the forest were the first possessors and masters of the country, and were not unworthy of christian sympathy as a vanquished people, who were not altogether des- titute of commendable qualities. They were impressed with the belief that they were placed on these lands by the Great Spirit, and that they were given them for their sole benefit, and« that no persons can, consequently, have a right to dispossess them of their native patrimony, their rightful hunting ground, and containing the sepulchres of their fathers. They were in- dependent nations, and attached to their rights and liberties, which, with their lives, they valiantly defended. But they were conquered, and their posterity have been compelled to recede rapidly before a civilized people, relinquishing every prospect, every object that could be dear to their hearts. The small re- mains of the aborigines seem to be doomed to banishment, and to perish by lingering desolation in the unexplored wilderness, until the race shall be extinct! This subject will now be closed by the following anecdote, which shows that the present gener- ation know how to appreciate the welfare enjoyed by their an- cestors, and how to deplore the hard fate to which their descend- ants are destined. In the year 1789, a number of Indian Sa- chems assembled at New York, on a mission to President Wash- ington. General Knox, as secretary at war, invited them to a dinner at his table. A little before dinner, two or three of the Sachems, with their chief or principal man, went into the bal- cony, at the front of the house, from which they had a view of the city, the harbor. Long Island, and the adjacent country. On returning into the room they appeared dejected. General Knox, noticing this, said to the chief, ^ Brother, what has happened to you.^ You look sorry! Is there any thing here to make you unhappy?' He answered, ' I will tell you, brother. I have been looking at your beautiful city, the great water, and rivers, your mighty fine country, producing enough for all your wants; see how happy you all are. But then I could not help thinking that this fine country, and this great water was once ours. Our ancestors once lived here, they enjoyed it as their own posses- sions in peace; it was the gift of the Great Spirit to them and INDIAN HISTORY. 399 their children. At length the white people came here in a great canoe. They asked only to let them tie it to a tree, lest the waters should carry it away; we consented. They then said some of their people were sick, and they asked permission to land them, and put them under the shade of the trees. The ice then came, and they could not get away. They then begged a piece of land to build wigwams for the winter; we granted it to them. They then asked for some corn to keep them from starving; we kindly furnished it to them, they promising to go away when the ice was gone. When this happened, and the great water was clear, we told them they must now go away with their big canoe; but they pointed to their big guns round their wigwams, and said they would stay there, and we could not make them go away. Afterwards more white people came. They brought spirituous and intoxicating liquors with them, of which the Indians became very fond. They persuaded us to sell them some land. Finally, they drove us back from time to time, into the wilderness, far from the water, and the fish and the oysters; they destroyed the game, our people have wasted away, and now we live miserable and wretched, while you are enjoying our fine and beautiful country. This it is that makes me sorry, brother! and I cannot help it.* The following is copied from the American Remembrancer, being an impartial collection of facts published in London dur- ing the Revolutionary war, for the year 1782, vol, xiv. p. 185. Boston, March 12. Extract of a letter from Captain Gerrish, of the New Eng- land militia, dated Albany, March 7. "The peltry taken in the expedition, will, you see, amount to a good deal of money. The possession of this booty at first gave us pleasure; but we were struck with horror to find among the packages, eight large ones containing scalps of our unfortu- nate country folks, taken in the three last years by the Seneca Indians, from the inhabitants of the frontiers of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, and sent by them as a present to Colonel Haldimand, Governor of Canada, in order to be by him transmitted to England. They were accompanied by the following curious letter to that gentleman: ^ Tioga, January 3d, 1787. ' May it please your Excellency, — ' At the request of the Seneca chief, I herewith send to your Excellency, under the care of James Hoyd, eight packages of scalps, cured, dried, hooped and painted, with all the triumphal marks, of which the following is the i^^ice and explanation: 400 INDIAN HISTORY. 'No. 1. Containing forty-three scalps of Congress soldiers, killed in different skirmishes. These are stretched on black hoops, four inches in diameter, the inside of the skin painted red, with a small black spot, to note their being killed with bullets. Also, sixty-two of farmers, killed in their Houses; the hoops painted red, the skin painted brown and marked with a hoe, a black circle all round, to denote their being surprised in the night, and a black hatchet in the middle, signifying their being killed with that weapon. *No. 2. Containing ninety-eight of farmers, killed in their houses; hoops red, figure of a hoe to mark their profession, great white circle and sun, to show they were surprised in the day time, a little red foot, to show they stood upon their de- fence, and died fighting for their lives and families. • No. 3. Containing ninety-seven of farmers; hoops green, to show they were killed in the fields, a large white circle with a little round mark on it for the sun, to show it was in the day time; black bullet mark on some, a hatchet on others. ' No. 4. Containing one hundred and two of farmers; mix- ture of several of the marks above, only eighteen marked with a little yellow flame, to denote their being of prisoners burnt alive, after being scalped, their nails pulled out by the roots, and other torments. One of these latter supposed to be of an American clergyman, his band being fixed to the hoop of his scalp. Most of the farmers appear, by the hair, to have been young or middle-aged men, there being but sixty -seven very grey heads among them all, which makes the service more es- sential. ' No. 5. Containing eighty-eight scalps of women, hair long, braided in the Indian fashion, to show they were mothers; hoops blue, skin yellow ground, with little red tadpoles, to represent, by way of triumph, the tears of grief occasioned to their rela- tions; a black scalping knife or hatchet at the bottom, to mark their being killed by those instruments. Seventeen others, hair very grey; black hoops, plain brown color, no marks but the short club or casse-tete, to show they were knocked down dead, or had their brains beat out. ' No. 6. Containing one hundred and ninety-three boys' scalps, of various ages; small green hoops, whitish ground on the skin, with red tears in the middle, and black marks; knife, hatchet, or club, as their death happened. ' No. 7. Containing two hundred and eleven girls' scalps, big and little; small yellow hoops, white ground; tears, hatchet, club, scalping knife, &c. INDIAN HISTORY. 401 mentioned, to the number of one hundred and twenty-two, with a box of birch bark, containing twenty-nine Httle infants' scalps, of various sizes; small white hoops, white ground; no tears, and only a little black knife in the middle, to show they were ripped out of their mothers' bellies. ' With these packs the chiefs send to your Excellency the following speech, delivered by Conicogatchie, in council, in- terpreted by the Elder Moore, the trader, and taken down by me in writing: ' Father! — We send you herewith many scalps, that you may see we are not idle friends. Jl blue belt. ' Father! — We wish you to send these scalps over the water to the great King, that he may regard them and be refreshed, and that he may see our foithfulness in destroying his enemies, and be convinced that his presents have not been made to an ungrateful people. A blue and white belt, with red tassels. ''Father! — Attend to what I am now going to say. It is a matter of much weight. The great King's enemies are many, and they grow fast in number. They were formerly like young panthers. They could neither bite nor scratch. We could play with them safely. We feared nothing they could do to us. But now their bodies have become as big as the elk, and strong as the buffalo. They have also great and sharp claws. They have driven us out of our country for taking part in your quar- rel. We expect the great King will give us another country, that our children may live after us, and be his friends and child- ren as we are. Say this for us to our great King. To entbrce it, give this belt. J2 great white belt, with blue tassels. ' Father! — We have only to say further, that your traders ex- act more than ever for their goods; and our hunting is lessened by the war, so that we have fewer skins to give for them. This ruins us. Think of some remedy. We are poor, and you have plenty of every thing. We know you will send us powder and guns, and knives and hatchets. But we also want shirts and blankets.' A little white belt. ' I do not doubt but that your Excellency will think it proper to give some further encouragement to these honest people. The high prices they complain of, are the necessary effect of the war. Whatever presents may be sent for them through my hands, shall be distributed with prudence and fidelity. ' I have the honor of being your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant, JAMES CRAWFORD.' LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 014 079 433 8