cc OULD NEWBURY": HISTORICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. John J. Currier. w ILLUSTRATED. BOSTON: DAMRELL AND UPHAM. 1896. V74 H4C8 COl'VRIGHT, 1S96 JOHN J. CURRIER. GEO. H. ELLIS, PRINTER, 141 FRANKLIN STREET, BOSTON PREFACE, In this volume I have attempted to trace the history of some of the ancient houses and notable places within the limits of " Ould Newbury," and have also endeavored to embody in brief biographical sketches some of the facts and incidents connected with the mercantile, literary, and political life of the town. I have been compelled to leave unnoticed many buildings and places of historic interest, and have found it impossible to sketch, even briefly, the work and influence of the distinguished men and women of Newbur)' birth and parentage who are noz^' living in this community, or elsewhere, without very materially increasing the size of this volume, which is already too large for convenient use. I trust, however, that a more comprehensive work, giving the history of Newbury, Newburyport, and West Newbury from their incorporation down to the present time, will soon be undertaken by some competent and careful writer, who will collect and preserve for future generations the names of the men that are necessarily excluded from these pages, with a full and detailed account of the important events in which they have participated. The facts and incidents contained in these sketches ha\'e been gathered from ever}' available source ; but my thanks are especially due to Sidney Perley, Esq., of Salem, Mass., and to John Ward Dean, A. M., librarian of the New Eng- land Historic-Genealogical Society of Boston, for valuable advice and assistance in preparing them for the press. I desire also to acknowledge my indebtedness to Abner C. Goodell, Jr., commissioner for the publication of the Acts and Resolves of the Province of Massachusetts Bay ; to Walter K. Watkins, secretary of the Massachusetts Society 661533 4 PREFACE of Colonial Wars, Boston, Mass. ; to William Little, Esq., president of the Historical Society of Old Newbury ; and to Messrs. Lothrop Withington, Isaac W. Little, Oliver B. Merrill, and many other citizens of Newburyport, for similar service in the examination of parish, town, and State records. Great pains have been taken to verify every statement and to give the facts as they exist without exaggeration or embel- lishment. Many errors will undoubtedly be discovered in the text. In some instances names and dates will be found incorrect, owing to discrepancies between town and family records. The authorities that are relied upon to corroborate and support the conclusions reached in these sketches are mentioned, in order to facilitate investigation ; and the titles to estates can be verified by consulting the Essex registry of deeds, the book and page of reference being given. Most of the topics selected for consideration in this volume are more or less intimately connected with the growth and development of the town, and have been arranged in chrono- logical order, so far as possible, beginning with the " Landing at Parker River" and ending with "Oak Hill Cemetery." There is necessarily some repetition of statement in these pages, inasmuch as each sketch is intended to be complete in itself, and in a measure independent of those that precede it. The illustrations are from negatives taken by Messrs. Robert E. Mosely, Carl Meinerth, Hiram P. Macintosh, Selwyn C. Reed, William C. Thompson, Edward E. Bartlett. and John Osgood. Some of these negatives were made expressly for this work, while others are more than thirty years old and represent views and scenes that cannot now be obtained by the use of the camera. I have found the task of collecting the material and pre- paring this book for publication somewhat difficult and labori- ous, and have felt obliged to omit man}' topics that would naturally find a place in a work of this description ; but, notwithstanding its many im]:)erfections and deficiencies, I venture to offer it to the ])ublic as ni}- humble contribution to the history of ni)' nati\e town. J. J. c. NKWnrKYi'oKr, December lo, iSy6. TABLE OF CONTENTS. PAGE The Landing at Parker River 9 The Settlement at the Lower Green 13 The Spencer-Pierce House 25 Edward Rawson 43 The Ferry at Carr's Island 55 John Poore, of Newbury Neck 81 Thomas Hale, of Newbury Neck 85 ^'Trayneing Green" and New Pond 91 Burying Ground of the First Parish in Newbury in Watts' Cellar and Frog Pond 120 Titles to Land between Ordway's Lane and Chandler's Lane 139 Wharves and Docks 151 The Noyes House 165 The Coffin House 169 Blue Anchor Tavern 175 Ilsley House 189 The First Town and Court House in Newbury 198 Thorlay's Bridge over Parker River 201 Plum Island 212 Deer Island 221 Bartlett's Cove 230 Samuel Sewall, Chief Justice of Massachusetts Bay .... 247 The Toppan House 261 Mill at the Mouth of Artichoke River 269 Old Ship-yards 275 Indian Attack on the P"amily of John Brown at Turkey Hill 287 Byfield Parish 291 Homestead of Benjamin Pearson 301 The Longfellow House, Byfield Parish 305 Dummer Academy 313 Fatherland Farm 327 Theophilus Parsons 331 1/ Pipe Stave Hill 339 Indian Hill 347 6 TABLE OF CONTENTS The Sawvkk Housk 357 Thk IUryim; Ckou.nd at Sawvkr's Hill . 363 QuKKN Anne's Cilm'kl and ISellkvii.lk Cemetekv 368 Map UK riiK West Parish 391 St. 1'aul's Church 396 The Devil's De\ ... 421 The Old Elm oe Newkury 425 Third Parlsh in Newbury 430 Lowell House 449 Old Hill Burvi.nc Oround 453 Colonel Moses Titcomi; . . 464 The Dalton House 475 Nathaniel Knapi> 4S4 Wolfe Tavern 492 The First Preshyterian Mekiinc-House 50S Rev. Oeorge Whitefield 526 Parker River Bridce 530 Colonel Moses Little 541 Patrick Tr.\cy 545 PuiiLic Likrary Buildino 551 Dexter House 564 Lowell-Johnson Hoi'se . 577 Newburyport Marine Sociepv 5S6 Essex-Merrimack Bridge 593 New Hill Buryinc. Ground 605 Barti.et .^L\LI 611 Market Square 622 Moses Brown 632 Abraham Wiieei.wru;h p 638 The CiReat Fire 646 William Wheelwric.ht 651 Hannah F. Gould 659 Caleb Cushino 664 Cornelius Conway Fei.ton 672 Samuel Morse Fklion 677 Willi \.\i LLO^■D (iAkuisoN 681 James Parton 6S7 EisEN F. SpoM'. 693 Oak Hill Cimeipry 701 Appendix 709 I.NDEX 7' 5 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. The Landing-Place, Parker River. Frivifispiece. Plan of Settlement at Lower Clreen . 14 The Spencer-Pierce House .... 26 Plan showing Division of Spencer- Pierce Farm, 1778 39 Rear of Spencer-Pierce House ... 40 Edward Rawson 42 Rebecca Rawson 46 Pillsbury House 52 Carr's Island — Old House and Ferry Landing 56 Carr's Island, 1896 78 Homestead of John Poore .... 82 Hale House, Newburj- Neck ... 84 " Trayneing Green " and New Pond . 90 New Pond on " Trayneing Green " . 96 Grave of Rev. Thomas Parker . . 1 10 Map of a Portion of Newbury . 118, 119 The March-Haskell House .... i 24 March-Haskell House. — A Corner of the Living-room 126 March-Haskell House. — Fire-place in Southwest Chamber 126 House occupied by John Weed, 1700 136 View of Wharves in Newburyport 160 I'he Noyes House 164 The Coffin House 168 Dresser in Coffin House 174 The Ilsley House 190 Thorlay's Bridge 202 Milestone at "Trayneing Green " . . 209 Milestone at Four-rock Bridge . . . 209 Milestone at Corner of the Boston and Middle Roads 210 Milestone at Dummer Academy . . 210 Plum Lsland Light-house . . . . 216 Plum Island Hotel 217 PAGE Flat-iron Point. — "Joppa" .... 218 Clam Houses. — "Joppa" .... 219 Plum Island River and Marshes . . 219 Plum Island Beach 220 Deer Island 224 Residence of Mrs. Harriet P. Spofford 226 Bartlett House at Bartlett's Cove . . 234 Plan of Proposed Ferry Route . . 238 Gravestone of Henry .Sewall . . . 249 Samuel Sewall 256 The Toppan House 260 Mill at the Mouth of Artichoke River 268 John Currier, Jr.'s .Ship-yard, 1857 . 282 John Currier, Jr 2S4 Scene of the Indian Depredations at Turkey Hill 286 Old Parsonage House, Byfield Parish, built in 1703 292 Homestead of Benjamin Pearson . . 302 The Longfellow House 306 Dummer Academy 314 Dummer Mansion 318 Lieutenant-Governor Dummer . . . 320 Katherine (Dudley) Dummer . . . 321 Fatherland Farm 326 Theophilus Parsons 332 The Theophilus Parsons House, 1S50 334 Merrimack River from Pipe Stave Hill 340 Ben : Perley Poore 352 House at Indian Hill 354 The Sawyer House 358 Burying Ground at Sawyer's Hill . . 362 Belleville Cemetery 388 A Plan of the West Parish of New- bury, New Town 392 ILLUSTKATIOXS TAtiE St. Paul's Church, built in iSoo . . 41J Interior of St. Paul's Church . . . 415 The Devil's Den . 420 Old Elm of Newbury 424 Interior of Meeting-house, First Re- ligious Society, Xewburyport . . 444 Spire of Meeting-house built in iSoi 447 Lowell House 44S Old Hill Burying Ground .... 454 Gravestones of Timothy De.xter and Wife 456 Gravestone in Old Hill Burying Ground 460 Colonel Moses Titcomb 466 Residence of Colonel Moses Titcomb 472 The Dalton House 474 Dalton House 476 Dalton House Stable 477 Tristram Dalton 47S Plall and Staircase, Dalton House . 48 1 Corner of Middle and Independent Streets, Xewburyport 490 Wolfe Tavern 502 First Presbyterian Meeting-house, built in 1756 519 Pulpit in First Presbyterian Meeting- house 521 Cenotaph in First Presbyterian Meet- ing-house . . .' 522 House on School Street where Rev. George Whitefield died .... 52S Parker River Bridge 532 House built by Colonel Moses Little 540 Patrick Tracy 546 House built by Patrick Tracy in 1771 5:^2 Nathaniel Tracy 554 Advertisement of Sun Hotel . . . 559 Public Library Building 562 Jonathan Jackson 566 Hannah (Tracy) Jackson .... 567 Dexter House 574 Lowell-Johnson House 5S0 Hall and Staircase ^82 PACiE Hall of Xewburyport .Marine Society 590 Map showing Location of Esse.x- Merrimack Bridge 595 Bridge erected from Plans furnished by Timothy Palmer 596 Long Arch of Essex-Merrimack Bridge 598 Esse.K-Merrimack Bridge, from Laurel Hill 600 Essex-Merrimack Bridge 602 Grave of Caleb Gushing, Xew Hill Burying Ground 606 Land and Buildings in the Vicinity of Frog Pond 610 .School-house at Northwesterly end of Bartlet Mall 615 High .School Building at Southeast- erly End of Bartlet Mall . . . . 617 liartlet Mall, iSoo 618 X'ortherly Side of Market Square . . 626 Southeasterly Side of Market Square 630 Brown Square 634 House built by Abraham Wheel- wright in 1806 642 Abraham Wheelwright 644 Map showing the Extent of the " Great Fire " of iSri 64S William Wheelwright 653 Home for Aged Females 656 Residence of Hannah F. Gould . . 660 Caleb Gushing 666 Residence of Caleb Gushing . . . 670 Birthplace of Cornelius Felton . . 674 liirthplace of Samuel Morse Felton . 67S liirthplace of William Lloyd Garrison 6S2 Residence of James Parton .... 688 James Parton 690 Residence of Hon. Eben F. Stone . 694 Eben F. Stone 696 Gateway to Oak Hill Cemetery — Gift of John S. Tappan 700 Gateway to ( )ak Hill Cemetery.^ Gift of lohn T. lirown 702 THE LANDING AT PARKER RiVER, In February, 1633-4, the Council for New England, assembled at Whitehall, England, adopted an order placing certain restrictions on the transportation of passengers and merchandise to the colony of Massachusetts Bay ; and before the ship "Mary and John" and eight other vessels, then lying in the river Thames, were allowed to sail, instructions were issued expressly providing that the captains in command of these vessels " shall cause the Prayers contained in the Book of Common Prayers, established in the Church of England, to be said daily at the usual hours of Morning and Evening Prayers, and that they cause all Persons on board said ships to be present at the same." In the ship "Mary and John" came Thomas Parker, James Noyes, John Spencer, Henry Short, Henry Lunt, John Bartlett, and many others, who ultimately settled in Newbury. Upon their arrival in New England most of these passengers went to Agawam, now Ipswich, Mass., where they remained until the spring of 1635. Meanwhile Sir Richard Saltonstall, Henry Sewall, Richard and Stephen Dummer, with others from Wiltshire, England, had organized a company for the purpose of stock-raising at a time when the prices for cattle, horses, and sheep were at their highest. They added to their own domestic herds some imported Plemish stock, and persuaded John Spencer, Henry Short, Richard Kent, Thomas Parker, and others to join them in the enterprise, and establish a settlement on the river Ouascacunquen, now Parker River. Sept. 3, 1633, the General Court granted "John Win- throp, junior, and his assignes " permission to set up a "trucking" or trading house on the Merrimack River (see lO OULD NEWBURY Colonial Records, book i, page io8) ; and under date of May 6, 1635, the House of Deputies passed the following order : — Ouascacunquen is allowed by the court to be a plantation, and it is referred to Mr, (John) Humphrey, Mr. (John) Endicott, Captain (Xa- ,4:hanie'ij/'nuti''dr; ajid Captain (William) Trask, or any three of them, to spf out the bounds.af Ipswich and Quascacunquen, or so much thereof iciS" ihf:r lean > aVtl ,th« name of said plantation shall be changed, and shall hereafter be called Newberry. Further, it is ordered that it shall be in the power of the court to take order that the said plantation shall receive a sufficient company to make a competent towne. Previous to this date, undoubtedly, a few venturesome fishermen had built temporary residences on the banks of the Merrimack and Uuascacunciuen rivers ; but they were looked upon as trespassers and intruders, for the General Court had forbidden all persons from settling within their jurisdiction without leave. Rev. Thomas Parker and those associated with him, having obtained permission to begin a plantation "to be called New- berry," made preparations to remove from Ipswich early in the spring. There were no roads through the trackless forest, and the transportation of women and children and household goods overland was impracticable. Tradition asserts that they came by the way of Plum Island Soiuid, in open boats, and landed, in the month of May or June, 1635, on the north shore of what is now the ri\'er Parker, in a little cove about one hundred rods below the bridge ; Nicholas Noyes, the brother of Rev. James Noyes, being the first to leap ashore. Near tliis secluded spot a niunbcr of siunmcr cottages ha\e recently been erected, giving to the place a ])leasant, home-like look ; l)ut two centiu'ies and a Iialf ago the ])ros- pect was less agreeable and inviting. "... Eastward, cold, wide marshes stretched away, Dull, dreary flats without a bush or tree, O'ercrossed bv winding creeks, where twice a day C/urgled the waters of the moon-struck sea; And faint with distance came the stifled roar, 'The meianclioly la])se of waves on tlic low shoi'e." THE LANDING AT PARKER RIVER II Inland hills rising above hills stood like sentinels over the almost unbroken wilderness. Centuries before this mem- orable landing Indians had hunted in these forests and fished in the placid stream that ebbs and flows to the falls of New- bury ; but only a few of that race remained to resist the encroachments of the white-faced strangers. Dismal and gloomy must have been the outlook as these brave pioneers gathered together at the close of the first day, and contem- plated the prospect before them. They knew that wild beasts were roaming through the forests, and whether the red men would welcome them as friends or foes was as yet Uncertain. " Their descendants can have but a faint idea of the difficulties they encountered, and of the dangers that continually hung over their heads, threatening every moment to overwhelm them like a torrent, and sweep them, with those whom they dearly loved, to the silent tomb." Undismayed by these difficulties and dangers, the new settlers instinctively turned their attention to the cultivation of the soil and the development of the resources of nature. Here and there along the winding river they appropriated the few clear spots where the natives had formerly planted corn, and promptly took possession of the neighboring marshes where the growing crop of salt grass promised an abundant harvest. There was no lack of work ; no room for idle dreamers. Houses had to be built, land ploughed and tilled, and sheds erected for the protection of cattle before winter set in. House lots, planting lots, and meadow lots were laid out and granted to individual members of the community, and the original entries, giving names and dates, can still be seen on the old records of the town ; but how many houses were erected or how many families settled in Newbury during the first year of its existence it is impossible to state with exactness. Governor Winthrop, in his History of New England, under date of June 3, 1635, records the arrival of two ships with Dutch cattle; and the same day the ship *' James" arrived from Southampton, bringing, among other passengers, John 12 OULD lYElVBURY Pike, father of the famous Robert Pike, of Salisbur}', and one Thomas Coleman, who had been employed by the projectors of the stock-raising company to provide food for the cattle and take care of them for a specified term of years. In the Massachusetts Colony Records, under date of July 8, 1635 : — It is ordered that there shall be a convenient quantity of land sett out by Mr. Dumer and Mr. Bartholemewe, within the bounds of New- bury, for the keeping of the sheepe and cattell that came over in the Dutch shipps this yeare, and to belong to the owners of said cattell. Evidently, those who were engaged in this new enterprise intended to utilize the vacant lands and at the same time establish a safe and profitable business for themselves ; but Coleman, becoming dissatisfied, declined to carry out his part of the contract, and the (icneral Court finall)' ordered a division of the grain that had been imported, and instructed each owner to take care of his own cattle. THE SETTLEMENT AT THE LOWER GREEN. The earl}' records of the town of Newbur}' ha\'e been sadly neglected and abused. The first volume now contains less than one-half the entries originally recorded there. The pages upon which important events were carefully inscribed have been lost or stolen. For several successive years all the entries are missing, except a few scattering reports that have escaped the ravages of time and the cupidity of reckless historical investigators. The value and importance of these old records cannot be overestimated. They are of vital interest to all who are in search of genealogical or historical information ; and, if lost or destroyed, they cannot be duplicated or replaced. Some action should be taken to provide against this possible con- tingency before it is too late, and special efforts should be made to preserve and protect these \-aluable memorials of the past. The work of repairing and rebinding the torn and mutilated \'olumes, and providing a larger and more com- modious safe for their accommodation, has recently been urged upon the proper authorities with some degree of success. Newbury, Newburyport, and West Newbury — all within the territorial limits of the old town incorporated in 1635 — are particularly interested in its past history, and by united action and hearty co-operation could provide for the publica- tion of all manuscript papers and documents of importance, including births, deaths, and marriages, from 1635 down to the year 1819, when West Newbury became a separate and independent town, and practically make the records acces- sible to every citizen, while at the same time the original books and papers would be placed be}'ond the danger of ■'.OWKOJ J1V0 THE SETTLEMEXT AT THE LOWER GREEN 15 wear and tear from constant daily use. Boston, Braintree, Dedham, and other towns and cities have ah'eady led the way by publications of a similar character ; and, certainly, the records of the town of Newbury are of sufficient impor- tance to warrant their preservation in the form and shape suggested. Although defective and incomplete, yet the scattered en- tries that remain upon the slowly fading pages disclose many interesting facts relating to the settlement of the "old town " at the Lower Green. At first all public business was trans- acted in committee of the whole. Later the General Court authorized the election of prudential men, not exceeding seven, "to order the affairs of the towne. " John Wood- bridge was the first clerk. His term of service extended from May, 1635, to October, 1638. His handwriting is fine and woman-like in appearance, yet perfectly plain and legible. Edward Rawson was the second town clerk. He served until April, 1646, when he was chosen one of the deputies to the General Court, and afterward secretary of the colony of Massachusetts Bay. His records are written in a scrawly, cramped hand, and are very difficult to decipher. John Lowell was the next clerk, but he died a few months after his election. Only a few brief entries are to be found in his handwriting. Anthony Somerby was the fourth clerk, and served until October, 1680, when the first volume closes. Henry Short was his successor. Previous to this time the transactions of the town and of the selectmen were en- tered in the same volume, without method or classification ; but from and after this date they were recorded in separate books. A full and complete record of the lots laid out and granted from the early settlement of the town has been made up and incorporated in the Proprietors' Book. These records were originally entered, with other proceedings of the town and of the selectmen, in the only volume then in use ; but, during the clerkship of the methodical and careful Henry Short, they w^ere copied into a separate book, which includes grants subsequently made, and they are now in a good state of preservation and of great historical value. 1 6 OULD NEWBURY From these records it aj^pears that house lots were laid out and surveyed on both sides of the river Parker, at Kent's Island, and on the banks of Little River ; but the i:)rincii)al settlement was in the immediate vicinity of the Lower (ireen where the meeting-house was located. The plan on page 14 is taken from a drawing made by Daniel Dole in 1828, and, though not strictly accurate in all its details, it gives a fairly correct idea of the size and locality of the house lots assigned to the first settlers. The names of the original grantees will be found on the plan, with i)age references to the town records where the grants are recorded ; but farm lots, planting lots, and meadow lots, beyond the prescribed limit of half a mile from the meeting- house, are omitted for want of room. Tradition asserts that the Rev. Thomas Parker preached his first sermon under the branches of a majestic oak on the northern bank of the ri\'er Parker, about one hundred yards below where the bridge now stands ; and at the close of the sermon a church covenant was agreed u})on, and the Re\'. lliomas Parker was chosen pastor. The sworn testimony ot John Pike, Robert Pike, John Emery, and others, given at the court in Ipswich in 1669, corroborates and confirms the report that the first meeting was held "on the Sabbath, in the open air under a tree." Whether the meeting-house was built upon the Green, as indicated in the drawing made by Mr. Daniel Dole, or whether it was located on a lot farther to the north, near the old burying-ground, cannot be determined now with abso- lute certainty. But, wherever located, it was probabl}' a rude structure built of logs, with the interx'cning cracks and crevices filled with clay to keei) out the cold. r^'aring a sudden attack from the Indians during service- time, it was ])ro\ided that all able-bodied inhabitants of the town should be di\ided into four et|ual companies, ami placed under the charge of John Pike, Nicholas Holt, John leaker, and lulmund Greenleaf. These four men were reciuiied to notif}' e\er)' ])erson under their charge "to bring their armes compleat one .Sabbath (la\' in a month and ihe lectui'e day, THE SETTLEMENT AT THE LOWER GREEN 17 following in order successively one after another," and also to cause every person in their several divisions " to stand sentinell at the doores all the time of the publick meeting, every one after another, either by himself, in person, or by a sufficient substitute." Notwithstanding the perils and dangers to which they were exposed, the population steadily increased in numbers and gradually improved in worldly condition. Among those who came to Newbury in 1639 were John, Richard, and Per- cival Lowell, who had been merchants in Bristol, England, and Anthony Somerby, who was the first schoolmaster em- plo}'ed b}' the town. From the records it appears : — There was granted unto Anthony Somerby in the year 1639 for his encouragement to keepe schoole for one yeare four akers of upland over the great river in the necke. also sixe akers of saU marsh next to Abraham Toppan's twenty akers. Some years later (May 14, 1653), after the removal of the settlement to the Upper Green, two or three miles farther north, the town " voted to pay £,2\ yearly to maintain a free school to be held at the meeting-house, the master to teach all children sent to him so soon as they have their letters and begin to read." Important business enterprises were undertaken at a very early date. Nicholas Easton, afterward governor of Rhode Island, was the first tanner of whom we have an)' account. He is supposed to have occupied a tan-yard on the banks of the river Parker, and some traces of the old vats are still pointed out on land owned at the present time by Mr. Nathaniel Dole. A few years later John Bartlett started a tanning establishment at Bartlett's Cove, and his descend- ants continued the business for more than two centuries. P'rom the will of Richard Dole, dated March 25, 1698, and proved July 30, 1705, it appears that he was engaged in mer- cantile pursuits at an early date, and was also a dealer in hides and leather. He came to Newbury from Bristol, Eng- land, in 1639. He settled at the Lower Green, and probably purchased the land owned by Nicholas Easton, who had been 1 8 OULD NEWBURY disfranchised l^y the General Court, and had remoxed to Rhode Island. The items relating' to the disposal of the tan- house and tan-yard read as follows : — To my son Richard Dole. . . . Also one half of my bark house & mill & of all my other implements of Tanning. Also one half of my Tan House & tan yard & pitts, with Eighty Rods of Land on the Northerly side of the wharf to be laid out from the Green to the Gutter so as may be most convenient for a Tanning design, the one half of the said Land that the bark house, pits, & Tan house stands on to be part of the Eighty rods of Land, with the proviso that neither he nor his shall have Liberty to set up a dwelling house on the said Eighty Rods or any part thereof. . . . Also I give to my said son Richard Dole one half of the hides and leather that belong to me in the pits or elsewhere. I give to my son William Dole, and heirs forever, my Dwelling house that I now dwell in. Together with my barn & other out-houses, with the Lands that they Now Stand on, with the Land next Adjacent, both upland and Meadow, to the heads of the Lots with my Orchard thereon & to the River ; & the other end or side is bounded by an easterly line from Bloomfield's old house to the head of the Lots by a west line to the green, together with five lots, four Acres Apiece, be they more or Less; viz.. Spencers Lot, Franklin Lot, Nath'l Badgers Lot, & two Lots known by the name of the Moody Lots. . . . Also one quarter part of the Hides and Leather that do belong to me in the pit or elsewhere. . . . To my son Abner Dole. ... I give him one Quarter part of all the hides and Leather that do belong to me in the pit or elsewhere. Most of the land conveyed by the above will has remained in the possession of the family down to the present time, and is now owned and occupied by Nathaniel Dole, sixth in descent from Richard Dole. In the i^lan of the old town a street is laid down extendinj;- from the east gutter, so called, along the bank of the ri\"er Parker to the marsh land beyond. This street was doubtless intended to serve as a highway for the transportation of hay, fish, and other products of the land and sea ; but, proxing inconxenient, Thomas Sihci", who owned ten acres ot marsh near the landing-place, was induced to grant the inhaliitants of the tow^n liberty to pass and repass o\er his private projv erty. In the Proprietors' Records, untler date of .Sept. 6, 1650, is the following entry: — THE SETTLE MEXT AT THE LOWER GREEX 19 In Consideration of Thomas Silver, his receiving a parcell of Marsh about an acre, be it more or less, by a parcell of Marsh he bought of Henry Jaques in the Great fields or Marsh lands below the Lotts at the Old Towne almost rounded by Creeks, which is at the East end of the marsh that was formerly Samuel ScuUards Marsh, and now Thomas Silvers, which the said Thomas Silvers doth by these presents engage and give liberty for a way for Carting and Sledding through the ten acres of Marsh that he bought, which was Samuel Scullards. for all those that have neede of a way from the Marsh that is called Jericho or thereabouts, in the most convenient place forever. AXTHOXY SOMERBY. Some years later a new way was laid out through the land of Richard Dole " which is next to the lane of Thomas Silver," as will appear from the lot layers' reports and other statements, as follows: — Whereas, upon complaint of the way next Newbury River into the marshes is now not passable, the Townsmen, taking into consideration, have exchanged the said Highway, with all the land that lies common between it and the bank, with Richard Dole, for a more convenient way through the land of said Richard Dole, which is next to the lane of Thomas Silver : and so to go cross the land of Richard Dole, until it come to the old way, as it hath been viewed, and as it shall be staked out. and seen passable by the men appointed. The breadth of the way in the Ploughlands Shall be a rod and a half, and afterwards two rods all along, but, if it be fenced, then to have it half a rod wider; and this way is appointed only for a cart or sled. AXTHOXY SOMERBY. Clcfk. ffor a farther explanation and confirmation of the Grant of Richard Dole heer abovesaid, whereas ther is expressed abovesaid that he should have all the land that lies conion between the highway and the Bank, ther is now Granted all the land that lyes in conion to him be- tween his owne land and The River all a Long as farr as the way goes in the upland to the Marsh. The Towne reserving Liberty to any Inhabi- tant in the Towne for fishing. Fowling, landing goods or Hay, Seizing Canooes, or Cutting Creek grass on the Flats or the Like. And. in con- sideration of resigning up into the Townes two acres of land which was Benjamin Rolfes in the aspen swamp, the Towne Granted unto Richard Dole the enlargement of the old way unto the River, and also all the Marsh that Lyes comon adjoyning to the way next John Pike. senV, his marsh below Sergeants being about an acre or thereabout. Provided the said Richard Dole give satisfaction to Benjamin Rolfe. 20 OULD XEIVBURY XoVEMIiKR 29"', 1654. Acording to tlie Appoyntment of the Towne we have laid out the way to the neck anff through the neck to the marshes on the east side of the old Towne. as followeth : — P>om Merrimack street Downe a long Richard Dole's land at that side which is next to Thomas Silver's lands and jovning unto it to Ive one Rod and an halfe while it is unfenced. and to be two rods wide if it be fenced. And so to run from thence athwart the lower end of the Lotts. as it is staked out unto John Emery's lands, uppon the neck at the Southwest Corner, from thence Eastward by the North of Thomas Silver's lands a rod and an half wide while it is unfenced. and two Rod wide if fenced, from thence South Eastward unto the north side of John Pike's meadow, from there northward, as it is marked with Trees and Stakes, by the upper ends of the meadows unto Gyles Cremwels, alias Cromlans, meadow, all Two Rod wide. Laid out by us Richard Kxight. John" Pike. John Chew pr AxTHOXV SOMERBV. Recorder. This old lane or way is still in use, and extends from near the eastern end of the Lower Green to the old landing-place on the river Parker. During the last ten or fifteen years the erection of summer cottages in that vicinity has greatly in- creased the travel over this ancient thoroughfare. July 8, 1635, the General Court granted liberty " to M' Dumer & M"" Spencer to build a myll & weire att the falls of Newberr}^ to enjo)- the said m}'ll & weire with such prex'i- lidges of grounds & tymber as is expressed in an agreem' betwixte them & the towne, to enjoy to them & their heires forever." This mill was undoubtedly the first one erected within the territorial limits of Newbury. Governor Winthrop, in his Histor)' of New Kngland (edition of 1853, volume i, page 234), says, "a water mill was erected at Salem, and an- other at Ipswich, and another at Newbury" in 1636. In the town records, undei" date of Aug. 6, 1638, the fol- lowing agreement is recorded : — It is agreed w"' Mr. Ricliard Dummer of Xewburv by tlie psons whose names are hereunto subscribed that in case Mr. Dummer doe make his mill fitt to grynd Corne «S: doe so maintayne the same, as also doe keei)c a man to attend the grynding of Corne, then they for their THE SETTLEMENT AT THE LOWER GREEN 2i p's will send thither all the Corne that they shall have ground ; & doe likewise pmise that all the rest of the Toune (if it lye in their power to p'cure the same) shall also bring their Corne from tvme to tyme to be ground at the said mill ; And it is further agreed that (the 'fore men- c'oned condic'on being observed by Mr. Dummer) there shall not any other mill be erected w"Mn the said Toune. On the margin of the book containing the above record are the .signatures of Edward Woodman, Edward Rawson, John Knight, and Richard Brown. Sept. 2, 1635, Francis Plumer was Hcensed by the General Court "to keep an ordinary in Newbury" ; and this was, un- doubtedly, the first tavern opened to the public within the limits of the town. June 6, 1637, John Knight, of Newbury, was licensed to keep an ordinary and give intertainment to such as neede. — Massachusetts Colony Records, volume i, page 199. The total area of marsh and upland within the limits of the township was nearly thirty thousand acres. The extreme length of the town from the mouth of the Merrimack River to the farthermost western boundary was nearly thirteen miles ; and the width, at the broadest part, was about six miles. In the first division of this land among the settlers every person who had put ^50 into the common stock was granted two hundred acres ; and every person who had transported himself and family to New England at his own expense was entitled to fifty acres. This rule was strictly adhered to, and was evidently intended to encourage immigration and induce men of wealth to settle in Newbury. •' Such adventurers as send over any person are to have fifty acres for each person whom they send." In conformity to this agreement the town laid out to Mr. Richard Dummer 1,080 acres, to Mr. Henry Sewall 630 acres, Mr. Edward Rawson 580 acres, Mr. John Clark 540 acres, and so, in proportion to the amount of money each had invested, down to the house lot of four acres with the right of pasturage, which was given to even the poorest settler. 22 OULD NEWBURY That portion of the land in the southerl}' ])art of the town that was not specially laid out and granted to individuals was divided into several sections, known as " the Ox Common," "Cow Common," "Calf Common," and "Sheep Range," while the whole of what is now West Newbury w^as called the " Upper Woods." The work of felling forest trees, clearing away the thick undergrowth, and preparing the soil, in favorable localities, for cultivation, was actively undertaken and steadily pursued until the annual crops of barley, wheat, and Indian corn grew more and more abundant. There was no lack of plain and nourish- ing food. The woods abounded with game. The supply of beef, mutton, and poultry, was more than equal to the de- mand. Of fish, especially .Hturgeon, salmon, codfish, and bass, there was plenty. Home-brewed beer was the common beverage until the growth of orchards and the plentiful sup- ply of apples led to the introduction of cider as a substitute. Tea and coffee, and even potatoes, were unknown in New England until nearly a century later. Though living near the ocean, there were but two persons among the original settlers who were acquainted with nauti- cal affairs. One was Mr. Thomas Milward, who owned a shallop, and is styled "mariner" in the records; and the other was Captain John Cutting, "shipmaster." Aquila Chase was induced in 1646 to remove from Hampton to Newbury by a vote of the proprietors, which reads as ft)llows : Granted to Aquila Chase, anno 1646, four acres of land at the new towne for a house-lott, and six acres of upland for a planting lott, where it is to he had, and six acres of Marsh, where it is to be had also, on condition that he do goe to sea and do service in the towne with a boate for four years. There is a tradition, says Coffin, in his History of Newbury, that Aquila Chase was the first i)crs()n who brought a \essel over the bar at the mouth of the Merrimack River. He was undoubtedly a good j^lot as well as an experienced fisherman. The first white child born in Newbury was Mary Brown, (laughter of Thomas Brown. .She niaii'icd Peter (lodfrey THE SETTLEMENT AT THE LOWER GREEX 23 May 13, 1656, and died April 16, 1716, in the eighty-first year of her age. Josliua Woodman, son of Edward Wood- man, was the first white male child born within the same territorial limits. He died May 30, 1703, aged sixty-seven, and was bnried at Byfield. Other births recorded in the original book of records are : — Shubael Dumer, sonne of Mr. Uumer, borne the 17"^ day of Feb- ruary. 1635-6. Elizabeth Holt, ye daughter of Nicholas Holt, husbandman, was borne the 30"^ March, 1636. The names of those who died at this early date were not recorded, or, if recorded, have since been lost or destroyed. Previous to the year 1641 the only entries are, — Thomas Cromlome dyed 1635; ye wife of Thomas Cromlome, dyed 1635: and these entries were evidently not made at the time, but interpolated some years later. The first death where the name and date are given in full is that of John Kent, son of John Kent, who " dyed ye 7"' of February, 1641." After this date evidently more care was bestowed upon the records, and the entries are much more frequent ; but still for many subsequent years they are very defective and incomplete. A short distance from the Lower Green, and near the travelled highway that leads to the bridge over the river Parker, is the ancient burial-ground where those who died during the first few years of the settlement were buried. Many of the graves are marked by stones with inscriptions, but these tablets are nearly all of them lying flat on the ground and covered with the o\'ergrowing turf. E\'idently, the earliest burials were not appropriately marked at the time, and cannot now be identified. The oldest inscription that can be deciphered reads as follows : — 24 OULD XEWBUKY HERE LVES y^ BODY OF WILLAM DOLE AGED 58 \' E A R S DIED J A X i< V y '• 29' '^ 1717-8. A petition to the General Court, to be found in the Mas- sachusetts Archives, volume 10, pages 27 to 30, signed by Edmund Greenleaf, Daniel Thurston, Stephen Kent, and John Poore, remonstrating against the proposed remoxal of the meeting-house to the Upper Green, has this significant sentence : — ■ The high way, in part, that served both town and country, and the very places assigned to bury the dead, and where many dead bodys lye, are sold away, as wee are informed, though all things are secretly carried. In the town records, under date of May 18, 1647, there is a memorandum to the effect that John Emery for ^^3 was granted " that parcell of land called the greene, about three akers, being more or lesse, bounded by the half acre lotts on the west, the hye way on the South east and his own land on the north, being in a triangle, onl}- the twenty rods [is] reserved in said land for a burying place, as it is bounded with stakes with a way to it from the Street." This "parcell of land" is now a cultivated field owned by Mrs. Joseph Ilsley, and is still known as the Emery lot. It is probable that the " burying place," specially rcser\-ed in the above grant, was the first one that was laid out and set apart for that pin"pose within the limits of " Ould Xewbury." THE SPENCER-PIERCE HOUSE. There is considerable doubt and uncertainty in regard to the date when this ancient stone house was built. Some authorities claim that it was erected by John Spencer between the years 1635 and 1637, and others assert that it was built for his nephew, John Spencer, Jr., between 1640 and 1650; and still others are of the opinion that its first owner and occupant was Daniel Pierce, who bought the farm in 165 1. Careful examination of the records at Salem, made with spe- cial reference to the preparation of this sketch, does not furnish sufficient evidence to determine the c[uestion beyond a reasonable doubt ; but it has led to the discovery of some important facts, now for the first time published, that may be of assistance in arriving at the correct conclusion. It would be impossible to give in detail all the deeds, wills, and other legal instruments that have been consulted, without extending this sketch beyond its proper limits ; and therefore only a brief outline of these papers will be inserted here, with such cjuotations and comments as will enable the reader to follow the changes that have taken place in the ownership of this property from 1635 to the present time. Among the first settlers who landed at Parker River was Mr. John Spencer. He came to New England in the ship " Mary and John " in company with Thomas Parker, James Noyes, Henry Short, John Bartlett, and others, and was at Ipswich in 1634, where he was made freeman and chosen deputy to the General Court. He came to Newbury in 1635 ; and his name appears on the first page of the Proprietors' Records as the grantee of a house lot "next the great river," as may be seen by reference to the plan of the settlement at the Lower Green on page 14 of this book. In 1636, at the THE SPENCER-PIERCE HOUSE 27 May, September, and December sessions of the General Court, he represented the town of Newbur}', and was ap- pointed captain of one of the militia companies organized for the defence of the colony. In the Registry of Deeds at Salem, Mass. (Ipswich Series), book I, page 183, there is A Transcript of the lands of Mr. John Spenser, of Newbury, as by the severall graunts doe appeare, as theye were graunted by the towne of Newbury, & recorded in the towne booke of Newbury. There was graunted by the towne of Newbury unto Mr. John Spenser, gent, of Newbury, in y yeare 1635, one house lott of foure acres, bee it more or lesse, as it was layed out by the appointed lott layers, in bredth eight rods, in length four skore rod, bounded by y street next the greate river on the south, a lott of William Francklings on y north, a lott of William Seargents on y*^ east, & Merrimack Streete on y^ west. Alsoe a farme lotte of foure hundred acres of upland & meadow, be it more or lesse, bounded by Mr. Woodbridge on the north, Mr. Parker on the south, y'' street of eight rodds in bredth on the west, next Merri- mack river on the east and the comon on the west end, one hundred & fifty acres whereof, be it more or less, lyeth on the left hand of Merri- mac ridge, the same in bredth as that on y right hand of the ridge, & in length Six score rodds. And thirty acres of salt marsh beyond Pyne Island, and three acres of upland, be it more or less, on the neck over the greate river. Edward Rawsox. William Titcome. Edward Woodman. Nicholas Noves. vera copia. p. AXTHOXV SUMERBY, Recorder for y towne of A^eivbury. It is probable that the house lot referred to above was sold or exchanged for other property at a very early date, and that Spencer occupied it only temporarily. The farm of four hundred acres remained in his possession until his death, which occurred ten or twelve years later. In 1637, John Spencer was condemned and disarmed, with sixty other followers of Mrs. Anne Hutchinson and the Rev. John Wlieelwright, for holding erroneous religious opinions ; and August i of that year he made a will, and soon after, 28 OULD NEWBURY probably, went to Kngland,* where he died, unmarried, about 1648. This will does not mention house or buildings of any kind, neither does it give the age of the nephew (John Spencer, Jr.) to whom all the lands and goods belonging to the testator in New England are bequeathed. It is exident from a careful perusal of the document, however, that this nephew was a mere youth at that time, receiving dail}' in- struction from the Rev. John Cotton, of Boston, where he ])robably resided during his minorit}'. The full text of this will is gi\-en in order that all the important facts may have their proper weight and influence. The will was proved at Salem, March 29, 1649, and is recorded in the Registry of Deeds (Ipswich Series), book i, page 181. JoHX Spexsp:r"s Will. Know all men by these pre.sents that, if ("lOd be pleased to call me out of this life in this single condition, it is my full purpose and will that John .Spenser shall inheritt all my lands & goods which God hath given unto me in this Country of New England, to pay out of the same within three years after my discease to his reverent instructor in Christ, Mr. Cotton, ten pounds, to every house hould servant, which is so at the time of my discease, five pounds a peece, to the children of my cosen Ann Knight of Newbery five pounds a peece, and to herself five pound; and unto every child of my brother Thomas Spenser twenty pounds a peece: to Thomas Theacher five pounds: and to mine honored friend Mr. Dane. Mr. Richard Dumer. Mr. Nicholas Eston. .Mr. Foster of Ipswich, and Goodman Motte of Hingham doe I comitte the over- sight lS: execution of this my will & testament, and doe comend the said John Spenser, my nephew, together with his estate hereby given him. to be managed & ordered for his good. >.S: himselfe for his educatiim to be by their care in y'' knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, and that if money be not in their hands to defray the severall legacies heere be- (jueathed, that then they take as many cowes or heiffers out of the Stock, and share them betweene them at twenty j^ounds the l)east. till every portion be sattisfied: and my will is that mine honoured and lov- ing friends should, in their accompt unto mine heire, make abatement for all their paines and charges in the following any business therein contayned, whome I desire the Lord to blesse, that the worke may prosper in theire hands. Dated this first of the si.xt month. iCi3 7- ;uid signed with mine owne hand. i , Si'KNCKR * In a suit brought by .Antliony Sonierby, as his attorney, in the year i' ^S, Spencer is described as living in London. See Ipswich Court Kiles, book 2S, jiage i. THK SPKXCICR-PIERCE HOUSE 29 Mv will and intent is. that if John Spenser my nephew, should dye without heires of his body lawfully begotten, that then my brother Thomas Spencer & his children shall share the same, a sonne to have three times as a daughter, and, if tliey should fail by death, that then the children of my brother Nicholas Kidwel, & the children of my sister Rachell Kidwel, to them halfe theirof, and the next of my blood & whole kindred that shall first come over to reside in this country to have the other halfe: moreover I give to my Cosen (Jardner's children twentie Shillings the peece. pr. Jo : Spexcer. Witnesse. Robert Jeoffrevs Thomas Thacher. To the above is added the following statement : — Left at Newbury i [ cows. 3 heyfers, 4 oxens, i steere. 4 cow calves, I bull. 7 steere calves, i mare. 3 mare colts, beside swine & poultry, corne, cloaths, cloathes apparell, household stuffe. In the records of the Ipswich court is the following state- ment in relation to the presentation of this will : — The 29* of March. 1649. there was a will delivered into court by IVI'' Richard Dumar. being the will and testament of M' John Spencer Heretofore of Newbery, bearing date the first of the sixt month. 1637, wittnesed by Robert Jeofferyes & Thomas Thacher. M'' Rich Dumar sworne testified the will above mentioned was de- livered into his hands before M'' Spencers goeing to England, It is not reasonable, in view of these facts, to suppose that the old stone house now standing on this farm was built during the life of John Spencer, Sr. When the younger Spencer came into possession of the property in 1649, he could not have been over twenty-one or twenty-two years of age. He was unmarried. He com- menced to sell the land in small lots of eight, ten, and thirty acres each, and finall)", Nov. 26, 165 1, he con\'e}'ed the remainder, consisting of a farm of three hundred acres, to his uncle Daniel Pierce. At this date there were " housings, barnes, cow houses, orchards, gardens, and fences thereunto belonging " ; but, 30 OULD XEIVIU'RY inasmuch as Thomas Coleman had taken a lease of the farm some )ears i)reviously, it is probable that stock-raisin<;" was carried on there, and "housings and barnes " were })ro\ided as shelter for cattle. Dec. 22, 1645, the town records state that, "Thomas Coleman having taken a farme so that he cannot attend to lay out lotts, John Pemberton was appointed lott layer in his roome." This statement undoubtedly refers to a lease of this property made by Richard Dummer and others, as trustees, under the will of John Spencer, Sr. The lease had two years to run from Nov. 26, 165 I, as stated in the conveyance of the farm from John Spencer, Jr., to Daniel Pierce. The full te.xt of the deed, as recorded at Salem (Ipswich Series), book i, page 285, is as follows : — Witnes. by these presents, that John Spenser, of Newbury, in the countie of Essex, gent, for & in consideration of five hundred pounds in hand paid & by the said John Spenser received, have infeoffed. bar- gained & sold, & by these presents do infeofe, bargaine & sell, unto Daniel Pierce of the said towne & county, smith, all that his farme witli upland & meadow, containing about three hundred acres, be it more or less, lying in Newi)ury. on the east side of Merrimack ridge, bounded with the land of Mr. Thomas Parker & Mr. John Woodbridge on the south, and the said Mr. Woodbridge's farm on the north, & a creke that comes out of Merrimack river on the east. >.S: the highway on Merri- macke ridge on the west, with all & singuler profitts, comons. privilidges & appurtenances thereunto belonging : to have, hold >.\; quietly to pos- sess & enjoye the said farme, both meadows and upland, all housing, barnes, cow-houses, orchard, garden & fences thereunto belonging, to the said Daniel Pierce, his heires and assignes forever; and the sd Jolm Spencer for him tS: his heires the sd farme. t!v;c., unto the said Daniel vS: his heires i!v assignes, will warrant & defend, provided tliat. if the said John Spenser shall desire to have the sd farm again, within one seaven yeare after this date, that then the said Daniel Pierce shall resigne up the said farme againe unto the saitl John .Spencer conditional! v. the said John Spenser pay backe againe the said price that he received for it, and such charges as may be thought convenient, that the said Daniell Pierce shall be at alwut improvement, unto y*^ said Daniell I'ierce. his heires .\: is that which Daniell I'carce do now Dwell upon, and THK SPENCER-PIERCE HOUSE 35 Henrv Jaques. and Richard Pettengell & Joseph Domer also do dwell upon it. p me Richard Knight. Sworn in Court held at Ipswich the 3o"> of March, 1680. Attest Robert Lord. Clcrc. From these depositions it appears that at least a portion of the farm granted to John Spencer, Sr., by the town of New- bury was not laid out until after his decease, and that John Spencer, Jr., found it necessary to have this done before he could give a legal conveyance of the land to his uncle. Daniel Pierce, Jr., or Colonel Daniel Pierce, as he was usually called, was prominent in civil, ecclesiastical, and mili- tary affairs. He married Dec. 5, 1660, Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas and. Ann Milward. Six years before, Daniel Pierce, the elder, had married Elizabeth's mother, who was then a widow. Colonel Daniel Pierce died April 22, 1704. His will, dated Aug. 12, 1 701, was proved May 8, 1704. It gives to his wife " fourteen pounds a year yearly during her natural life, and the Parlor in the Stone house, with as many pertitions made in it as she shall see cause to have, also a passidge throw the kitchen for her more convenient going to the well " ; to his son, Joshua Pierce, " my now dwelling house with the malt house and out housings, &c., &c." ; to his son, Thomas Pierce, " that dwelling house which I built for him, situate and being upon that my land that the malt house do stand upon " ; to his oldest surviving son, Benjamin, "the ffarm y' my Honoured ffather (deceased) bought of Mr. John Spencer, of wch he shall not sell any part. . . . The houseing and lands as is hereby given unto my said son Benjamin Peirce, and his heirs particularly expressed, shall be and Remain unto my said son Benjamin Pierce and his heirs male of his body lawfully begotten, and so to the male heirs of my son Benjamin Pierces male heirs, bodyes lawfully begotten, forever ; . . . and farther my will is that it shall not be in the power of the above mentioned heirs to sell or diminish any part or parcell of the said Houses or lands which is hereby entailed to the 36 OCLD NEIVBURY heirs male as is abo\"e expressed, but that the same and e\ery part and parcel! thereof shall be and remaine to the heirs as is abc)\-e said, to have and to hold to them and the heirs male of their bodyes lawfully begotten as abo\e said forever." Benjamin Pierce was executor of his father's will. He married L\-dia h'rost, daughter of Charles h'rost, of Kittery, Me. He died at the old stone mansion, and was buried in the graveyard near the First Parish Meeting-house. Upon the tablet that marked his grave was the following inscription : — Here Ly.s ye body of Benjamin Pierce, Esqr.. who died Mav ve 19"' 171 1, aged 42 years and three months. Pillar i' th' State he was, Bid fair still At greater things. To all y' knew him well, Pattern of vertue. Kind to all was he. Loued by friends. Feard of his enemie. Embalmd in tears, Enuey itselfe stood dumb. Snacht from ye world In times most troublesome. When the meeting-house was destroyed by fire in i '^G'$>, this gravestone was probably broken into fragments b\' the falling timbers or shattered by the sudden ai^jilication of water to its heated surface. No trace of it can now be found. Administration on the estate of Henjamin Pierce was granted Oct. 1, 1713. His eldest sur\i\ing son, Charles Pierce, came into possession of the property when he arrixed at the age of twenty-one. He married Sarah 1^'rost, of Kit- ter)', Me., Nov. 20, 171S. lie IkkI children as follows: Charles, born h^eb. 2, 1719; Henjamin, born I''eb. 24, 1723; William, born Dec. 29, 1731. The eldest son, Charles, inherited the house and farm on the death of his father, which occui'rctl Jan. 23, 1764. THE SPENCER-PIERCE HOUSE 37 The intended marriage of Cliarles Pierce, Jr. (born Feb. 2, 1 719), to Mary h'everyear, of Boston, was published March 24, 175Q. She died April 27, 1760, aged twenty-two years, leaving one daughter, who afterwards married Thomas Butman. Charles Pierce, her husband, died Nov. 29, 1772, leaving no male issue. At this date (1772) William, born Dec. 29, 1731, was married, but had no children ; and Benjamin, born F'eb. 24, 1723, was not living, having died Sept. 7, 1765, leaving one son, Daniel, who was born in 1754. Five years later (Sept. 9, 1777) there was "an indent- ure to dock the entail of the Pierce farm by and between Moses Acres of Newbury, cooper, of the first part, Timothy Pettingell, of Newbury, yeoman, of the second part, Daniel Pierce, of Newbury, yeoman, of the 3'' part, William Pierce, of Newbury, yeoman, of the 4"' part, & E^benezer P"lood, of Newbury, laborer, of the fifth part," by which Daniel Pierce conveys to William Pierce, uncle of said Daniel, land and buildings thereon. Recorded in the P2ssex Registry of Deeds, book 135, page 256, and in the same book, page 258, there is a similar indent- ure from William Pierce to his nephew, Daniel Pierce. The next year (1778) there w^as a partition of this property, and one-half of the house and land w^as assigned to William Pierce, and the other half to Daniel Pierce (see Registry of Deeds, book 135, page 259). A plan of this division is re- corded in book 136, page 6"] \ and, for the convenience of those who are interested in local history, a tracing of that plan has been made, and is inserted with this sketch. Daniel Pierce sold his part of the house and land to Nathaniel Tracy in 1778. (Deed recorded in book 136, page 92.) William Pierce died March 15, 1778. P!unice Pierce, his widow, was appointed administratrix July 21, 1778; and she with other heirs sold to Nathaniel Tracy the other half of the house and land (see Deeds, book 136, pages 91, 121, 123, 181, 249). At this time Nathaniel Tracy was rich and prosperous. He lived in magnificent style ; and, besides the brick house 30 OCLD NFJVBURY on State Street built for him by his father, Patrick Tracy, he owned a large farm and dwelling-house at Medford, and also the house at Cambridge formerly occujMed by Washington as headquarters. To these elegant and desirable residences he now added the old stone house, where he died nearly twenty years later. The story of his life and the interesting events with which he was connected will be more fully re- lated in the history of the brick house on State Street, with which he and other members of his family were prominently identified. Compelled by financial disasters to dispose of some of this property, he sold. Now 1 7, 1 786, the old stone house and farm to Thomas Russell, of Boston (see deed, recorded book 146, page 214). Jan. I, 1787, Thomas Russell, of Boston, merchant, leased to Patrick Tracy for his life, at an annual rent of ^^133 6.y. 8^/., to be paid by Nathaniel Trac)', the Pierce farm of three hundred acres. The lease also provided that, in case l^atrick Tracy should die within seven years from the date of the lease, Nathaniel Tracy could retain possession of the propert)' until the expiration of the seven years, and ujion the payment of the sum of ;^, 5,333 ds. 8(/. to the said Thomas Russell a deed of conveyance would be made to the said Nathaniel Tracy (P^ssex Deeds, book 146, page 215). April 7, 1 791, Thomas Russell conveyed the Pierce farm, land and buildings, to Nathaniel Tracy in exchange for a brick house on State Street, "which was de\ised to the said 'Pracy under the will of his father, Patrick Trac\' '" (book 153, page 210). Nathaniel Tracy died Sept. 20, 1796; and h'eb. 21, 1797, Mary Tracy, guardian of the children of Nathaniel Tracy, b}' the authorit}' of the (ieneral Court sold to Offin J-Joardman for $12,800 "the farm whereon I now live" (book 162, i^age 144). 'Phe new owner was a man well known in this \icinit\' be- cause of his connection witli the caplui'e of the British ship " l-"iie!ids," Jan. 15, 1 77'">, just outside the bar at the mouth of the Merrimack l\i\er. lie retained possession of fip'^ 4° Oi'LD XEWBURY the property until his death ; and the executors of his will April 26, 18 I 3, b\' license from court, sold it to John lY-ttin- gell (book 200, page 236). During a portion of the time that Mr. Pettingell owned the farm the stone house was unoccupied, and the wooden addition at the extreme cw(\ was used b)' the tenants. The heirs of John Pettingell, residuary devisees, and trus- tee under his will, proved December, 1828, conveyed the premises, Oct. i, 1861, to Edward H. Little (book 628, page 240). Edward H. Little died in 1877, in- testate ; and the house and farm were ^^— , assigned, in the di\ision of the estate, to his son, Ed- ward F. Little, who now resides there. When the age of this old house, with its picturesque exte- rior, the solid ma- sonry of its walls, and the men who have owned and oc- cupied it, is consid- ered and allowed to quicken the thought and imagination, it tells an interesting story of old colonial days. There are few residences in New England that are more attractive or fascinating. Its style of architecture is remarkable, considering the early date at which it was built. Its walls are composed of se\eral \arieties of stone ; and some of them must have been brought from a long dis- tance, i:)erhaps by means of boats or rafts down the Merri- mack Ri\er. Tbe bricks used in the construction of the front porch, as well as the sc|uare tile which form the Hoor, were i)robab!y brought from j*jigland. Hrick\ards were established at Salem and Medford pre\ious tt) 1680; but the finished product of those \'ards was of an infei'ior THE SPEiYCER-PIERCE HOUSE 41 quality, and the size of the bricks was fixed by order of the General Court, as follows : " Every brick shall measure g inches long, 2^ inches thick, and 4^ inches wide." Im- ported English brick were much smaller and more smoothly moulded. The house was built in the form of a cross. On the northern projection, where the kitchen is located, a tall brick chimney rises from a stone foundation, outside the rear wall, to the roof above, as shown in the engraving on the oppo- site page. "The great porch of this old house," writes Mrs. Harriet Prescott Spofford, in an article published in Harper s Maga- ■sZ/^t- for July, 1875, "is said to be the most beautiful archi- tectural specimen in this part of the country, although it doubtless owes part of its beauty to the mellow and varied coloring which two hundred years have given it. Yet the bevelled bricks of its arches and casements and the exquisite nicety of its ornamentation lead the careful scrutinizer to side with those who dismiss the idea of its having been a garrison house, and to conjecture that that idea gained cur- rency from the fact that it was once used to store powder in, — a fact that was fixed in the popular memory by an ex- plosion there which blew out the side of the house, and landed an old slave of the occupant on her bed in the boughs of an adjacent apple-tree." . r:^ EDWARD RAWSON. EDWARD RAWSON. Edward Rawson was born in the village of Gillingham, county of Dorset, England, April 15, 161 5. He married Rachel, daughter of Thomas Perne, and grand-daughter of John Hooker, and came to Newbury in 1636 or 1637, leaving his eldest child, a daughter, with relatives in England, where she afterwards married an " opulent gentleman," whose name is unknown. He was admitted to the rights and privileges of a freeman in March, 1637-8 ; and in May of that year he served as deputy to the General Court from Newbury. June 8, 1638, he was fined 5 .v. for absence when court was called ; but Edward Converse was afterwards admonished for his neglect to provide men and boats for the convenience of travellers, and was excused upon payment of Mr. Rawson's fine, thus indicating that the deputy was delayed in his prog- ress by some neglect on the part of the ferryman. In July he was chosen one of the selectmen, and in August his name appears as one of the signers of an agreement with Richard Dummer for the erection of a mill " for the grynd- ing of corne." Sept. 6, 1638, the General Court appointed Edward Rawson, John Woodbridge, and Edward Woodman as commissioners to decide small causes in Newbury ; and from the town records it appears that Nov. 19, 1638, It \va.s ordered that Edward Rawson should supply the place of Mr. Woodbridge, and be the Public Notary & Register for the town of Newbury; and, while he so remains, to be allowed by the town after the rate of five pounds per annum ffor his paynes. He was e\-idently a man of ability and familiar with public affairs, though only twenty-three years of age. His subse- quent career justifies the confidence reposed in him by his 44 OULD XEWBUKY fellow-townsmen who honored him with so man)' important offices. In 1639 he represented Newhur\' in the (ieneral Court, and again in 1642. In the town records, under date of January, 1643-4, is the following entry: — In consideration of Mr. Rawson'.s keeping the towne hook, it is ordered by us. according to our power from the towne and courte granted to us, that he shall be freed and exempted from all towne rates for one whole yeare from the twenty-ninth of September last to the twenty-ninth of September next, 1644. In May, 1644, Rawson again took his seat in the House of Deputies, and thereafter was annually re-elected repre- sentative from Newbury until the year 1650. In the last week of the session, extending from May 14 to July 5, 1645, the dejDuties passed the following vote : — Edward Rawson is chosen & appointed Clarke to the house Depu's for one whole yeere to Enter all votes past in both houses & those alsoe y' passe only by them into their booke of Records. — Massachusetts Colony Records, book 3, page 21. While acting as clerk, he still retained his seat as deput)' ; and in November, 1645, he was appointed commissioner "to see people joyne in marriage in Newbury, during the pleasure of the Court." The full text of this ajipointment reads as follows : — In Ans'' to y'' peticon of ye Towne of Xcw])ery Edward Raw son is Appointed & Authorized by this Courte to marry such as are published according to ye order of y'' Courte & during v'' Courts pleasure. This entr)' was made b\' Rawson himself in tlie records of the House of ne])uties, book 3, page S4. lie pi-obabl}- continued to ser\e as clerk of the lower house until he was elected secretar)' of the colon}'. Ma)' 22, 1650. Soon after his election to this office he remoxed with liis family to l-5oston, where he resided during the remainder of his life, frequently \'isiting Newbui)' on matters connected EDWARD RAIVSON 45 with his own personal affairs or official duties. When Agnes, the wife of Deacon Richard Knight, of the First Church in Newbury, was accused of extravagance in dress, Edward Rawson was induced to write to one of the magistrates at Salem as follows : — Honorable S/r, An honest godly man, a friend of mine in Newbury, whose name is Richard Knight, whether of ignorance or wilfuhiess by some neighbour, is presented for his wife's wearing of a silk hood, supposing he has not been worth two hundred pounds. It being a grievance to him, who is advanced (in years) to be summoned to a court, that never useth to trouble any, at his request I thought fit to inform on my owne knowl- edge his estate is better worth than three hundred, and therefore I desire you would, as you may, forbeare, in your warrant, to insert his name in it, it may be ; if not, at least that you would take private satis- faction of him in your chamber, which he can easily give }ou, or any, in a moment. Not else at present, but my service to you and M'' Svmon Bradstreet. Your friend and servant, Edwaru Rawsox. Now at Newbury, the fourteenth of August, 1653.* For thirty-five years Edward Rawson was annually elected secretary of the colony. May 15, 1686, Edward Randolph arrived in Boston, bearing a commission to Joseph Dudley as president, and sixteen others as councillors of New England, until a governor-in-chief should be appointed by the king. Raw^son drew^ up and signed the resolves adopted by the General Court in answer to the charges and accusations brought against the colonial government ; and this was, prob- ably, his last official act. Upon the restoration of the old charter in April, i68g, Rawson was not reinstated in office. His age probably pre- vented him from taking an active part in opposition to the administration of Gox'ernor Andros. He died, honored and respected, Aug. 27, 1693, aged seventy-eight, at his residence in " Rawson's Lane," Boston, now Bromfield Street. Several of his sons went to England, and settled there. *Cofifiii"s History of Newburj', page 5.S. REBECCA RAWSON. EDWARD RAWS ON 47 Two of his daughters died young, and four were married in Boston. Rebecca Rawson, whose portrait accompanies this sketch, was the sixth daughter and ninth child of the secre- tary. She was the heroine of a romantic tale that Whittier has made attractive and interesting in the volume entitled '< Leaves from Margaret Smith's Journal in the Province of Massachusetts Bay." She was born May 23, 1656, and was tenderly nurtured and carefully educated. She became en- gaged, and in due time married Thomas Rumsey, a young man from England, of respectable appearance and pleasing address, who pretended to be Sir Thomas Hale, Jr., the nephew of Lord Chief Justice Hale. The following affidavits, taken from Coffin's History of New- bury, page 398, give the details of this unfortunate marriage : — The testimony of Theodore Atkinson and Alary, his wife, inhabitants of Boston, in New England, saith : — That about the 3"' month in ye year 1678 Thomas Rumsey came to me and tendered his service to me for one year to work with me, and he tokl me that he was a Kentish man, and that his father lived near Canterbury, and that he was a yeoman, and had an estate of about ^400 a year, and also that his father died when he was but young, that his father's estate did fall to him at his mother-in-law's decease, and also he pretended that he came over to New England upon the account of religion, and farther he hired himself with me for a year, for to attend my business and to keep my book of accounts and for the gathering in of my debts ; but, when he had been about a month with me, he pretended he was one that had been highly bred, but he would not say farther what he was, but about 5 months after he came to me then he told me his father was a Knight and a Baronet, and that his mother-in-law was a Lady. So he lived and carried himself, pretending he was highly bred, that I, the said Atkinson, did not set him on work, because he promised me he would satisfy me for what charges and expenses . . . about him; but a little time after he came to me he began to discover himself, so as his religion did seem to wear away, and before the year was expired he changed his name and said his name was Hale, and professed he had been a great traveller in ye Streights for about two and twenty months, and that his mother was called the lady Hale, and paid him his money by bills of exchange from time to time, that she was a Lady that had ^300 per annum of her own that she brought with her. and that his father had about ^800 a year, and a vast estate, which lie durst not, nor would not, mention lest he 48 OULD XEIVBUKY should be laughed at, and not. believed, that all his father's estate after his mother's decease was his. those and such like unheard-of stories as those, in which is not the least shadow of truth (as the deponents are informed) and as the deponents now perceive, he made use of as a delusion to put a cheat on Mr. Edward Rawson. of Boston, aforesaid, to accomplish his abominable villainy and deceive of his daughter, Mrs. Rebecca Rawson. whom he was married unto by a minister of the gospel on the first day of July. 1679. '" the presence of near 40 wit- ne.sses. The other paper gives the .sequel of the story in tlie follow- ing words : — Thomas Rumsey pretended to be Sir Thomas Hale. Jr.. nephew of Lord Chief Justice Hale, made a respectable appearance, appeared to be well acquainted with Lord Hale. and. being a person of a very hand- some address, paid his devoirs to Rebecca Rawson. who was accounted one of the most beautiful, polite, and accomplished young ladies in Boston, and had the vanitv to think herself suitable to make the young lord a wife. Accordinglv. thev were married, and. handsomely fur- nished, sailed for England, and safely arrived. She went on shore in a dishabille, leaving her trunks on board the vessel, and went to lodge with a relation of hers. In the morning early he arose, took the keys, and told her he would send the trunks on shore, that she might be dressed before dinner. He sent the trunks up, and she waited impa- tiently for the keys till one or two o'clock, but. he not coming, she broke open the trunks, and. to her inexpressible surprise, she found herself stript of evervthing. and her trunks filled with combustible mat- ter, on which her kinsman ordered his carriage, and they went to a place, where she stopt with her husband the night before. She en- quired for Sir Thomas Hale. Jr. They said he had not been there for some days. She said she was sure he was there the night before. They said Thomas Rumsey had been there with a young lady, but was gone to his wife in Canterbury, and she saw him no more. Having learned many curious works, such as painting on glass, she thought her- self al)le to su])i)ort herself: and on her return to America she was swallowed up h\ the earthquake at I'ort Royal in .America. She embarked for l^oston, b}- wa\- of Jamaica, in a \essel which belonged to one of her inicles. While the ship was at Tort Royal, in Jamaica, jirst reath' to sail lor Boston, the great earthquake of June 9, 1692, occm-red. The ship was dismantled and wrecked, and all the crew and passengers lost, with the exception of the owner of the vessel, who haj)- EDWARD RAU'SON 49 pence! to be on shore completing the settlement of his ac- counts, and so escaped to tell the tale. The portraits of Edward Rawson and Rebecca Rawson, now in the possession of the New England Historic Genealogical Society, No. i8 Somerset Street, Boston, were discovered nearly fifty years ago by Reuben Rawson Dodge, of East Sutton, now Wilkinsonville, Mass., in the old Rawson house at Ouincy. They had been handed down through Mr. Dodge's grandfather, Ebenezer Rawson, and the family of Judge Dorr, of Mendon, for at least five generations. On the portrait of Edward Rawson is plainly inscribed " Natis, 15"' April, 1615 — yEtatis suae 55, 1670," the exact date of his birth and the probable date of the painting. T\\q. name of the artist is unknown. Both of these portraits were engra\'ed and published with the memoir of Edward Rawson and the genealogy of the Rawson family in 1849. Through the kindness and courtesy of Mr. Dodge, who collected and arranged most of the mate- rials for that volume, copies of these steel engravings have been made, and are published in connection with this sketch of the life and early home of the second town clerk of Newbury. Among the men prominent in public affairs in this vicin- ity, previous to 1650, none were more frequently honored with public ofifice than Edward Rawson ; and the large tracts of land granted to him indicate that he was a man of some considerable wealth, and contributed largely to the financial support of the new settlement. Nearly six hundred acres of meadow and upland were laid out to him. The grant originally extended from the Merrimack River to the easterly side of Turkey Hill, and was covered for the most part with a thick growth of forest trees. Subsequently a portion of this land was exchanged for three hundred acres on the westerly side of Turkey Hill along the banks of the Arti- choke River. The low, level marshland in that neighbor- hood, above the upper bridge over the Artichoke, is still known as Rawson' s meadow. An entry in the Proprietors' Records for the town of New- 5 o OULD XE JVB C 'A' i ' bury, undated, but evidently made during the year 1638, states that There was granted to Edward Rawson. in lieu of his resigning his two hundred acres formerly granted unto him at the l)irchen meadow, two hundred acres of upland on this side Artichoke river, with all the meadows on both sides of that river & one hundred acres of upland more on the other side of the river, to enjoy to him & his heirs forever. Another grant, without date, is also recorded as follows : — To M"' Edward Rawson forty acres of upland as it is laid out, in length one hundred and sixty Rods, in breadth forty Rods, and Bounded by the Common on the North side and West end, John Moulton on the South side, and the way Lift by the Towne, of four Rods broad Joyning to Merrimack River on the East. l*]vidence that this grant extended to the Merrimack River is clearly shown by reference to a deed from Tristram Coffin to Lionel >Jorth, dated April 12, 1659, and recorded at Salem (Ipswich Deeds), book i, page 645, which conveys r f^orty acres of upland as it hath been laid out and given him in pos- session, situate, lying & being in Newbury aforesaid, being part of the farme formerly granted by the town of Newbury unto M' Edward Raw- son, being halfe the four score acres which I, the said Tristram Coffin, lately purchased of the above named Mr. Rawson & the east side of the above said four score acres being bounded with the land of William Moody on the west, Merrimack river over against .Mr. Carr's iland on the north, the way to the ferry on the east, and the way to Artichoke river on the south, with all & singular y*^ profits, wood, timber or under- wood privilidges & appurtenances thereunto belonging. The dwelling-house connected with Mr. Rawson's tarm was on the westerly side of the countr)' road, now High Street, and near the head of Woodland Street. This house, with forty acres of land untler and adjoining the same, was sold soon after his election to the office of secretar\" ot the colony. The terms and conditions of the sale are named in the followinir deed : — EDWARD RAIVSON 51 Know all men by these presents that I, Edward Rawson, late of New- bury in New England. (lent., for & in Consideration of One hundred pounds paid by \\'illiam Peelsbury of Dorchester, yeoman, in hand fifteen poundes and by Security bearing date with these presents in manner & forme to be paid as in the Same more largely appeareth, Have Given, Granted, bargained & Sold, & by these presents doe give, grant, bargain & Sell unto ye said W'" Peelsbury & his heirs all that my dwelling house as it is Situated in Newbury, with forty acres of upland be it more or less to ye Same adjoyning, with Garden & fences to ye same belonging as it is now encompassed about with the Comon at one End, the highway at the other, John Pemberton land, and the land of Henry Sewall, junr., of one side and the land of W" Elusy on the other side, with Tenn acres of meadow, taking it in any One place of ye sd Rawson's meadow, together with ye bushes to be accounted part from ye Sides of ye upland to ye river, with liberty for Comonage For Tenn Cowes. pt of ye sd Rawson's liberty in the Cow Comon & so pro- portionable privilege if Ever the Comon be stinted in all other, the Cow Common, as in the Towne booke of Newbury, is granted to ye said Rawson, to Have & Hold all the above mentioned premises to him the Said Wm. Pilsbery & his heirs forever from the day of ye Date hereof ; & the Said Edward Rawson doth hereby Engage to Warrantize the Sale of all the above mentioned premises Against all men Whatsoever Claym- ing in, by, from or under him, his heirs or assigns forever. In Witness Whereof I have Hereunto Set my hand & Seale This thirteenth day of December, 1651. Edward Rawsox, & a Seale. Signed. Sealed and delivered in the presence of us, . AxTHOxv Stoddard JOHX WlSWALL. Entered and recorded 3 January. 1651. Edward Rawsox, Recorder. This Deed of Sale was acknowledged by Mr. Edward Rawson to be his act and deed to ye use of William Pillsbery, whereunto Airs Rachel Rawson, ye wife of ye sd Edward Rawson, gave full Consent hereunto & renounced all right of Dowry hereunto this first of ye nth mo., 1651, before me. William Hibbixs. Examd. Stephex Sewall, Regr* * Essex Deeds, book 13, leaf 94. EDWARD RAWSOM 53 William Pillsbuiy removed with his family to Newbury, and took possession of his newly acquired property early in the spring of 165 i -2. At his death in 1686 he left the house and land to his son, Job Pillsbury, who continued to occupy it until about the year 1700, when he built a new house on the same land, only a few rods distant. In his will dated August, 17 16, he gives his share in the new house to his son Daniel, and his old house and shop to his son Josiah. The latter son sold his part of the property to his brother Daniel ; and, after an interval of a few years, the old Rawson house, being out of repair, was taken down. A photographic \iew of the domicile erected for the con- venience of Job Pillsbury and his family in 1700 is given on the opposite page, the front yard originally being open to the street. It was a quaint-looking building, containing two rooms on the lower floor, one on each side of the great chimney which occupied the centre of the house, and two chambers above, about twenty feet square, and over all a large attic. The two-story L at right angles with the main house was built in 1782 ; and the projection, covered with shingles, next the street was added at a later date for a kitchen, with a shed for the baiting of horses attached. Not- withstanding its great age, the house was in a good state of preservation when it was destroyed by fire July 4, 1889. It was owned and occupied by some member of the Pills- bury family from the date of its erection in 1700 until the death of Joshua Pillsbury in the latter part of the year 1887, except a brief interval when it was rented to Da\'id P^mery, who with his wife, Sally Smith, from Crane-neck Hill, made it a house of public entertainment. During the War of 18 12, when smuggling in ever}^ form was boldly carried on in sea- port towns, *' P^mery's tavern was a noted depcjt and safe deposit for the illicit trade, and often every hiding-place in the house and barns would be filled with contraband articles." Joshua Pillsbury, returning from Boscawen, N.H., to which place his father had removed some years previously, married a daughter of Captain Samuel Rolfe, and then started house- 54 OULD NEWBURY keeping in the old house. There he with his wife and ehildren lived ; and there he died, the last survivor of them all. Pending the settlement of his estate, the house was left vacant for several months. Taking advantage of this fact, it was set on fire at night by st)me evil-disposed person or i)er- sons, and totally destroyed. Another house has recently been erected on the same spot, of the same dimensions and the same general style of archi- tect ui"e. "The overhanging eaves, the projecting story, the small- paned windows of different sizes, irregularly placed," the low ceiling, and wide rooms with hard-wood floors and open fire- places have all been restored. The new house stands to-day an exact counterpart of the old one built nearly two centuries ago on land William Pillsbury bought of Edward Rawson in the year 165 1. Two grand-daughters of Joshua Pillsbury, Misses PLmily A. Getchell and Ellen P. Getchell, nt)w own and occupy the house and land. THE FERRY AT CARR'S ISLAND. In September, 1638, the General Court of the colony of Massachusetts Bay granted Simon Bradstreet and his asso- ciates liberty to begin a plantation north of the Merrimack. Early in the spring of 1639 a company was organized to locate the roads and make a division of the land. The Gen- eral Court named the plantation Colchester (Sept. 4, 1639), but the year following (Oct. 7, 1640) changed the name from Colchester to Salisbury. At the first meeting of the proprietors, George Carr, ship- wright, who had lived at Ipswich for some years previously, was granted a house lot of three acres ; and at a general meeting of the freemen of the town held July 3, 1640, It was Ordered y* George Carr shall have the Hand where he now dwells: as well Marsh as upland, it being the greatest Hand w"'in the Towne bounds in the river Merrimack; w"^ his 3 Acre house Lott more or less lying upon the est of AP Winsley house lott & upon the weast of M'' ffrancis Doues house lott for the whole of his first Di- vision. It appears from subsequent action of the General Court that this island, as well as " Ramme Island, Deare Island, and Eagle Island," were not then considered as within the territorial limits of the town of Salisbury. For at least five years after the settlement of the town there was no legally established ferry across the Merrimack, although it is probable that transportation by the way of Carr's Island w^as somewhat frequent, as " the highway lead- ing to the ferry " is mentioned in the records as early as 1639. At a county court held at Ipswich on the 24th of Septem- ber, 1644, the following order was passed : — ■ Kl)mm.m»^ - •■■> Q 2 i < 4^^••*• 1 W i THE FERRY AT CARR\S ISLAND 57 (jcorge Carr is appointed to keepe y^' ferrie att Salisbury att the Hand where hee now dwelleth for y^' space of three years, Pvided y* hee finde a sufifitient horse boate. & giue diligent attendance. The ferries are as followeth vnder : — ffor a Man p''sent pay for a horse 81 for great cattle ^^ Calues & Yearlins 3" goates 2'1 hofifg-s 3-^ If p'sent pay bee not made y* hee must booke any ferries, then a penny a peece more. If any bee forced to swimme over a horse for want of a great boate, they shall pay nothing. — Massachusetts Archives^ volume 121, page i. The provisions of this order authorize the collection of certain sums for ferriage, if paid cash down ; but, if they are charged on account, "then a. penny a peece more." Before the expiration of the three years' limit named in the grant cited abo\e Tristram Coffin, of Newbury, was authorized by the General Court to keep a ferry on the New- bury side, " when the interest of George Carr shall be deter- mined " ; that is to sa)', when the rights and privileges con- ferred by the county court at Ipswich shall have terminated. The order adopted May 26, 1647, reads as follows: — The Co'te doth grant Tristram Coffin to keepe an ordinary at New- bur}-, & to retayle wine, paying according to ord'' ; & also he is granted liberty to keepe a ferry on Newberry side, oV Merrimack, when the interest of George Carr shall be determined, & Georg Carr shall have lib''ty to keepe his boate going on Salsberry side. — Massachusetts Colony /records, volume 2, page 194. There being some imcertainty in regard to the jurisdiction of the General Court over several islands in the river, a formal petition was presented to the deputies ; and under date of May 10, 1648, it is recorded : — Upon the petition of the towne of Salsberry the Co'te conceive it meete that the little iland in Merrimack be reserved for the Countrves 5 8 OULD XEIVBURY use. & the greater iland to be given to the towne of Salsberry. reserv- ing a sufficient high way for passage of men & cattle &: that the towne ma\- have liberty to keepe a ferry on their side. — Massachusetts Colony Records, volume 2. page 246. The little island referred to in the abox'e order was after- ward called " Ramni Iland " ; and the greater island, o\er w^hich a highway was reser\ed for the passage of men and cattle, is now known as Carr's Island. It does not appear from the records of the General Com-f that the right of ])ass- ing to and fro over this island has ever been siu'rendered ; and, undoubtedly, this old roadway is still under the control of the State, l^he marks and bounds that made it a well- defined public way are now nearly obliterated, but its general direction and most prominent features can still be pointed out. A few granite posts set here and there along the line of this old thoroughfare are needed, in order to insure the identification and preservation of this imj^ortant historic land- mark. Jime 29, 1648, the town of Salisbury appointed a commit- tee to attend to the "settling of the ffeny," as provided for by the vote passed by the General Court in the preceding month of May. On the i8th of December following "it was Ordered that M'' Carr should have the ffery for fourteene yeares ; uppon the termes agreed on by those men appointed to dispose of the fferry." Having thus secured the e.\clusi\e right to maintain a ferr\" on the Salisbury side, Carr ne.\t ap})lied to the General Court for the privilege of ferrying passengers to and from the New- bury side of the island, as he had formerly been allowed to do. This request was not granted ; but, nexertheless, the court \'oted May 2, 1649: — In answere to the petition of CJeorge Carr. the Co'te doth conceive it meete that the petitioner sliall liave the free use ol Kaiii Hand so long as he doth or shall dilgentlv attend Ov serve the country, in keeping of the ferrv between Salslierrv i.\: Xewlierrv: i.\; liiierty is granted him. as occasion shall pesent, to fetch any passingers from Newberry side. & Mr. Coffin hath liberty to fetch any pa.ssingers also from Salsberry side. THE FERRY AT CARR'S ISLAND 59 as occasion shall be, that so the country may surely be served. — Massa- chusetts Colony Records, volume 2, page 265. Evidently, this decision was not satisfactory ; for Mr. Carr presented a second petition during the same session of the court, asking for exclusive control of the ferry. Final action upon this petition was postponed until the next meeting of the " Courte at Salisbury," which was duly authorized to de- termine and settle the question as " may best tend to the ease of the country." Nearly a year later the troublesome question was disposed of by the following decree of the court, entered at Salisbury, April 9. 1650 : — Whereas by an ord'' of y*-' Gen" Court bearing date May, 1649, It is left to \'' Determination of y'^' next Court to be held at Salisbury for y'^' selling & Disposing of y'^' ferry there, according to vv'^'^ order y*^ said Court at Salisbury Doth thus Dispose of y*^ said Ferry, first y' It shall Remain as it is att this present in disposeing of y- to the petition of the inhabitants of Salisbury, as also that of M-- George Carrs. it is ordered that Deare Island and Eagle Island, petitioned for as to the propriety, remajne the countrys, the timber & trees to be for Georg Carr for the vse of the bridg, till this Court take further order. The herbage of them, w'" lil^erty to cutt doune brush & vnderwood to make pasture for sheepe. to be to & for the vse of the sajd toune of 'S^W^huxx.— Massachusetts Colony Records, volume 4, Part ii.. page 530. 64 OULD iVEWBUKY The importance of keepiiii;" the ferry estabHshed at Carr's Island open for the transportation of troops and ammu- nition during the progress of King Philip's war was well understood and carefully prox'ided for b)' the following order, passed b}' the (General Court May 5, 1676 : — In answer to the request of (ieorge Carr, Sen. who keepes the ferry over Merrimack Riuer, the securing whereof for the Comon passage of poasts, souldiers, is only for the conveniency of some persons and at some times to support and main- tain at an extraordinary charge y* which is kept of necessity ; that he humbly offers these considerations to the general-court, humbly praying that the aforesaid ferry over the lower part of Merrimack river may l:>e either wholly put down or settled according to the aforesaid grant and covenant with the said Car and his heirs, or that the refusal of keeping the same at the same price at which it is now kept may be given to the petitioner, — Ordered, that the petitioner serve the towns of Newbury and Salis- bury with a copy of this petition, that they be heard thereupon before this court, upon the second Wednesday of the session of this court in May next, if they have anything to ol)ject why the prayer thereof should not be granted. [Approved December 20, 171 5.] Tlie hearing appointed for the second W'echiesday in May wa.s ex'idently postponed until Jinie 6. Lender date ot June 7. 1716. The following ORDER pa.ss"d in C(H'XC1L. .\XD sent down for CONCURANCE DECLARED ujjon tiie HKAKINC had yesterday before this COl'RT upon the within PETITION of Richard Carr, THAT the setting of Marches Ferry over Merrymack River from Whites Point in Salislnirv in the COUNTN' of I'.sse.x is no infringment to anv former C.R.W T to C.eorgc Carr. Till; !'l\()\'- INCE having reserved to themsehes the 1.1 ISICK TN' of Si;'l" Tl NC. up THE FEKKY AT CAKR'S ISLAXD 69 other FERRYS as should be found needful. AND the PETITION being groundless Ordered that it be dismissed, UPON which the HOUSE of REP- RESENT, pass'd a non-concurrence, viz*. Resolved that Mr. George Carr, his HEIRS and ASSIGNS, had a RIGHT to the whole Ferry on both SIDES of the RIVER between Newbury and Salisbury by VERTUE of a GRANT of the COURT at Salisburv 1650. being impowered by the GENERAL COURT to make such GRANT, \V'\ GRANT was confirmed by the GENERAL ASSEMBLY May, 1669, AND that no Ferrj- and Ferrys were to be sett up without his having the REFUSAL of the same, AND altho the (GENERAL-COURT reserved a LIBERTY to themselves to order a Ferry or Ferrys to be sett up, YET that the said George Carr nor HIS HEIRS never forfeited their RIGHT by any REFUSAL. The next step seems to have been taken by Richard Carr in a suit brought against Edward Sargent, who had charge of the new ferr)', in the absence of Captain John March, wlio was then engaged in the colonial service at Pemmaquid and elsewhere ; but the Court of Common Pleas, held at Salem June 25, 1 71 7, dismissed the suit. Two months later an action for trespass was entered by Richard Carr and James Carr against Edward Sargent, re- turnable at Court of Common Pleas at Newbury on the last Monday of September. The declaration of the writ was as follows : — In a plea of Trespass on ye Case, For that Whereas the Great and General Court of this Province did on May the 7th. Anno Dom 1649, by a second motion of George Carr, late of .Salisbury. dece"d. and ffather to the plant*^ as relating to Carrs fferry between Salisbury and Newbury, give order and power to the Court held at Salisbury aboves^ Justices of ye Sup'' Court, sitting at Salem. Dec'' i6"\ 171S, by adjournm' &c. to be opened before the Carrs and Sargents case is called. May it please yo'' Hon''* That whereas Mr. James and Capt. Richard Carr have action before yo'' Hon''* against Capt. Edward Sargent &c. and Capt. Sargent's wife, as we supposed, being visited and now siclc of ye small pox and removed to an outhouse (to prevent the spreading of it amongst us), and he himself has never had it vet. now it keeps at a distance, yet he having more than a double care for his family at home, his wife remote from him and dare not go near her and two children at Boston, one of them sick of it. the other we know not how it is with her, we promised that we would write in his behalf and pray a continuance of s'' action until next Mav Court at Ipswich, and yo'' Hon^* will greatly oblige yo'' petit''* and s<' Capt. Sargent, for he dare not appear at Court, &c. Newbtrv, Dec 12*'^ 1718. yo'' Hon''* most hum : serv*- Tho^ Noves Copy exam"^ Jos : Woodbridge. by Sami Tvlev. Cler. Hexry Somersbv. Essex, ss. Copia J 'era. Exam"! Stei'H. Skwall. CIt'r. A True Copy exam'' bv Bexja Rolfe. Cle?: 72 OULD XEIVBUKY Essex, ss At His Majestys Superiour Court of Judicature. Court of Assize and General (joal Delivery begun and held at Ipswich for and within the County of Essex on the third Tue-sday of Mav. being the nineteenth day of the said Month. Annoq Dom 1719. By the H().\<)1"-f- Samuel .Sewall, Esqi^ Chief Justice. Bex J A LvxDE Addixgtox T3AVEXPORT I EsQ'^s Justices Paul Dudley Edmi> Ouixcev J Carr, &c. Richard Carr and James Carr. both of .Salisbury in the 7'. Co. of Essex, shipwrights, Appellants, v. Cap* Edward .Sargent. Sargent of Newbury in the County of Essex, now. or late Inholder, App''^'' From a Judgment of the Inferiour Court of Pleas holden at Newbury on September 24"^ 171 7. where the appellants were Plant^ and the said Edward Sargent Def * * * It appearing to the Court by a Letter from Col" Thomas Noyes, Joseph Woodbridge, and Henry .Somersby Esq'* That the said Edward Sargents' Family being visited with the Small pox he could not attend the Court, whereupon the action was continued unto this time. Both partys E.Kcut" is.sued now appeared, the Writ. Judgment, Reasons of Appeal June4"M7i9. and all things touching the same being fully heard and maturely advised upon. It's Considered by the Court That the Writ is good and well brought, that the Judg- ment of the Inferiour Court h>t Reversed and that the App'^' Recover full Costs of both Courts, ta.xed at Four pounds six shillings. . . . Return on execution in the case of Richard Carr and James Carr t-.v. Edward Sargent. June 4, 1 719. Essex, ss I have Recivd of the within mentioned Cap* P2dward .Sargant four pounds Eight shillings in monev in full of tliis within mentioned Execution this twenty-second day of June, I 719. I say Recued by me so tliat I Return this ICxecution satisfyed in full as attest. Bl'.XJ ^ COKI'.K. under sherilf' THE FERRY AT CARR'S ISLAND 73 Another suit, brought in September, 1717, by Richard and James Carr against Edward Sargent for damages, was prose- cuted at the Inferior Court held at Salem July 14, 1719, and judgment was rendered for the defendant with costs of suit. From this decision Richard and James Carr appealed to the Superior Court held, by adjournment, at Salem, Dec. 15, 1 719, where the former judgment was confirmed; and May 16, 1 72 1, they applied to the Superior Court held at Ipswich for a review of these proceedings. The details are given in the following transcript from the court records : — Essex, ss. At His Majesty's Superiour Court of Judicature, Court of Assize and General Goal Delivery begun and held at Ipswich within and for the County of Essex on the third Tuesday of May, being the Sixteenth day of the said month, Annoque Domini 1721. By the Hono''''^ Samuel Sewall, Esqr Chief Justice. Benjamin Lynde 1 Addington Davenport I Paul Dudley " ■' Edmund Ouincey J Carrs Richard Carr and James Carr, both of Salisbury in the V. County of Essex, Shipwrights, Plan'* v^ Captain Edward Sargeant Sargeant of Newbury in the Said County of Essex, late Innholder, Defen' In a Plea of Review of a Plea of Tres- pass on the Case Commenced by the Said Richard Carr and James Carr against the Said Edward Sergeant at the Inferiour Court of Common Pleas held at Newbury for the Said County of Essex on the last Tuesdav of Septem- ber, Anno I 71 7. but Prosecuted at the Inferiour Court held at Salem by adjournment July 14"^ 1719- in the words following, viz*. For that whereas the Great and General Court of this Province Did on May 7* Anno Dom. 1649, by a Second motion of George Carr, late of Salisbury, de- ceased, and father to the Plan'* as Relating to Carrs Ferry between Salisbury and Newbury, Give order and Power to the Court held at Salisbury abovesaid to Judge and deter- mine of Said motion relating to Said Ferry and Privi- 74 OULD NKIVBUKY ledges and to Settle the Same, and whereas on the 9"' of the 3""' Anno Domini 1650 the Said Court did Settle and Confirm unto the Said George Carr, his heirs and assignes. the whole f^rry and Profits thereof on both Sides of Merrymack River between Said Towns of Newbury and Salisbury, he performing according to the Conditions Set forth in Said act or order, which Conditions were per- formed by Said Carr. as may appear by a return under the hands of Samuel Symonds. Esq'" Entred on Salisbury Town Book of Records, bearing date the 5"' day of the 5 m" 1655, and other Evidences as Shall more fully appear, and the Said George Carr dying Seized and possessed of the Said Ferry and Priviledge Setled and Confirmed to him as abovesaid, and the Same after the decease of the Said George Carr being lawfully Setled upon the Plan'" as portion, as appears by the Division made of the Es- tate of the abovesaid Cieorge Carr, deceased, by men appointed by the Honoured Court at Ipswich for that business April 10"' 1683, as namely iVP' Caleb Moody. M"" Thomas Noyes. M'' Nathaniel Clark and M"" Henry Short, which did then Sett out to the Plan''* the abovesaid Ferry and Priviledges, yet notwithstanding the Said Ed- ward Sergeant, Contrary to all the abovesaid Grants and Settlements of the Said Ferry and Priviledges, did Some- time in the Year 1691, on or about the month of Septem- ber, keep a Boat and Ferry Passengers, taking money for the Same, over the Said River Merrymack from the ware- house point. So Called, In Newbury to Rings Island in Salisbury, So Called, or near thereabouts, and Continued So to do until about the month of March, 1703, thereby hindering the Plan'^ Richard Carr and James Carr of the Profits of Said Ferry and Priviledge, which is to the Damage of Said Richard Carr and James Carr, as they Say, the Sum of Six hundred pounds, at which .Said In- feriour Court holden at Salem by adjournment as afore- said Judgment was rendred for the Defen' for Costs of Suit, from which Judgment the -Said Richard Carr and James Carr appealed to the Superiour Court of Judica- ture appointed by law to have been holden at .Salem for the Said County of Essex on the .Second Tuesday of Noyeml)er, 1719. but held by adjournment at -Salem aforesaid on the 1 5"' day of the month of December then next following, when and where the former Judgment was Confirmed and the .Said lOdward Sergeant recovered Cost of Courts; whicii Judgment the Said Richard Carr and THE FERRY AT CARR'S ISLAXD 75 James Carr Sav is wrong and Erroneous, and that they are thereby damnifyed the Sum of Six hundred pounds as Shall then and there be made to appear, wherefore for the Reversing thereof and recovering of the defen' the Said Sum of Six hundred pounds damages which the Plan'' have Sustained by reason of the Defen'' hindering them of the Profits of the Said Ferry and Priviledge from Sep- tember. 1691, to March, 1703. as aforesaid, and also the Costs Granted to the Said Edward Sergeant by the Judgment aforesaid, they the Said Richard Carr and James Carr bring this Suit, as also for their own Cost and Damages occasioned thereby. The Defen' appeared by Robert Robinson, Esq"" his attorney, and Pleaded the former Judgment was Right and ought to be Confirmed. Upon which Issue being Joyned, the Case after a full hearing was Committed to the Jury, who were Sworne according to Law to try the Same and returned their ver- dict therein upon oath, That is to Say they find for the Defen* Costs of Court. Ifs Therefore Considered by the Execution Court that the Said Edward Sergeant shall recover Issued against the Said Richard Carr and James Carr Costs of May 29"' 1 72 1 Court Taxed at Three pounds Six Shillings. Sheriffs Return on execution dated May 29. 1721. Edward Sargent v. James Carr and Richard Carr. Essex, ss I have Recued of the within mentioned Richard Carr Three pounds Eight shillings in Bills of credit of this province in full satissfaction of this Exe- cution on the other side, so that I Return this Execution satisfyed in full this 30''^ day of October, i 721, as attest Bexja Coker, under s/ieriff It is probable that the rapid increase of population along the river side gradually diverted the tide of travel from the old ferry at Carr's Island ; and, previous to the incorporation of Newburyport, it became unremunerative, and finally was abandoned altogether. A large part of the island remained in the possession of the lineal descendants of George Carr until ten or twelve years ago, but the division of his estate and the subsequent .subdivisions resulting from intermarriage and conveyances 76 Oi'LD XEWBURY largely increased the number of owners, and interfered with the careful and prudent management of the property. The following abstract from genealogical records gix'cs the direct line of ownership from George Carr down to the pres- ent time. In Felt's History of Ipswich, George Carr is described as a shipwright, born in England, and one of the settlers of the town of Ipswich in 1633. He removed with Elizabeth, his wife, to Salisbury, Mass., in 1639. ^i-'' children were: — Elizabeth'-, born April 21. 1642; married John Woodniansey. of Boston, May I, 1662. George-, born April 15, 1644: married Ann Cotton, daughter of Rev. Seaborn Cotton, of Hampton, N.H.. Nov. 8, 1677. Richard'-, born April 15. 1646: died April 25, 1649. William-, born April 15, 1648: married Elizabeth Pike, daugliter of Robert Pike, Aug. 20, 1672. James'-, born April 28, 1650; married Mary Sears, of Newbury. Xov. 14. 1677. Mary-, born Feb. 24, 1651 : married Rev. James Bailey, of Newbury. Sept. I 7, 1672. Sarah'-', born Dec. 17, 1654: married William Hinckley, of Hampton. N.H., Dec. 30, I 700. John'-, born Nov. 14, 1656; died Sept. 23, 1689. Richard^, born April 2, 1659. Ann'-, born June 15, 1661 ; married Thomas Putnam. George Carr^ died in Salisbury April 4, 1682. In the division of his estate Jame.s- and Richard Carr- were granted "the great Ferry on both sides the Island & Bridge & Pri\i- ledges thereunto belonging." Richard Carr^ was born April 2, 1659, and b}' his hrst wife, Elizabeth, he had one child, Elizabeth'', born Jime 9, 1691. H)' his second wife, Doroth}', he had one son, Kichard'\ born Jan. 3, 1693-4. l-'or his third wife he married Mrs. Sarah Mealy, by whom he liad two children. : Janies'\ born Nov. 3, 1702; and Johir', born in August, 1706. Sarah Healy Carr died Jan. S, 1727; ami Richard Carr- married for his fourth wife Sarah Greclc}' -Aug. 10, 1727. He died in Salisbury .Sept. 11, 1727. THE FERKY AT CARR'S ISLAND 77 o man. Richard Cai-r3, ^ho was born Jan. 3. 1693-4. married, Nov 18 I 71 5, Lydia Coffin, daughter of Stephen and harah Atkinson Coffin, by whom he had one child, Dorothy^ born Sept 18 I 7 1 6. For his second wife, he married widow Sarah Chase Jmie 13, 1720, by whom he had the following-named children : — Sarahs born July 2., ^T-^ ; married, first, Josiah French Dec. 20, 1739; second, John Ordway Dec. 8, 1742. Judith^ born July 21. 1721 ; married David Hoyt June 24. 1736. Elizabeth^ born June 28, 1723; married Nathan Rogers Aug 18, 1744- Richard^ born March 13, 1725 •• married Sarah Cook Apnl 16, ,745- Rebeccas born Jan. 9. ^727; married Benjamin Ordway, of South Hampton, N.H., Oct. 30, 1746. JamesS born Oct. 3, U^S; married Mary Greeley Nov. 23, xr.b. Mary^ born July 13^ ' 730- Richard Can- was drowned March 4. 1733-4, at nine 'clock in the evening, while attending to his duties as ferry- ui. ^ . , James CarrS who was born Oct. 3, 1728, and married Mary Greeley Nov. 23, 1756, had children as follows: — Marv\ born Sept. 21, i757; died April 8. 1798- Judith-', born Aug. 13, I759; died Jan. 3., 1849^ unmarried. James-', born Sept. 10, 1761 ; married Mehitable Dodge Jan. 3, 1785. He died Dec. 20, 1851. Ehzabetln born Sept. 19. ' 763 •• died Sept. 16, i779- Esther', born Dec. 9. 1765 ; died April 9. 1836. Levi\ born Jan. 25, .768; married Mary Putnam Nov. 29, I797- Saraln born Aug. 17. 177°; died September, 1855, unmarried. James Carr^ died June 9, 181 2. Levi Carr5, born Jan. 25, 1768, married Mary Putnam, of Danvers, Mass., Nov. 29. 1 797- Their children were : - Levi'> born Nov. 5, 1798-. married Mary Jane Ireland June i, 1843. Mary«, bom Sept. 3, 1800; married Daniel Norton March 22, 1822. James'\ born Feb. 6, 1803 ; died Sept. 26, 181 7. Clarissa^ born June 6, 1805; married John Currier, Jr., Dec. 28, 1830. Estherc, born Nov. i, 1807; married Augustus Batchelder Sept. 15, 1836. THE FERRY AT CARR'S LSLAXD 79 Levi Carr'' died April 14, 1820. Levi Carr'\ who was born Nov. 5, 1798, married IVLary Jane Ireland June i, 1843, and had children as follows : — Caroline Alarcella'. born March 3. 1S44; married Henry L. Kingslxiry. of Salisbury. Charles Henry', born April 6, 184S; died March 24, 1886. The writer of this sketch, a son of Clarissa Carr'^ (who was born on the island, and lived there during her childhood), has often listened to the vague and contradictory stories that have come down from former generations concerning this old ferry. In the preceding pages he has endeavored to give the actual facts, without exaggeration or embellishment, gathered from official records, and documents of unquestioned authority. Within the recollection of many ])ersons now living two houses stood near each other on the island. One was taken down and removed about the )-ear 1845, the other was still standing when the photographic view on page 56 was taken ; but during the summer of 1883 it was destroyed by fire. Starting from the Newbur}' shore at the foot of what is now known as Jefferson Street, the ferry landed its pas- sengers in a little cove directly opposite ; and by a narrow path or highway running in an easterly direction on the lower or right-hand side of the house seen in the half-tone print, they crossed the island to the floating bridge, connecting with the Salisbury shore. The view presented on the opposite page shows the island as it now appears, and reveals to some extent the alterations and improvements that have been made by Hon. Harvey N. Shepard, of Boston, who bought the property in the fall of 1882. Two new houses, with barns and out-buildings, have been erected ; and a substantial stone pier now extends across the cove on the river side, formerly used as a landing-place for the ferry. The house in the immediate foreground on the extreme left is supposed to stand on land once owned and oc- cupied by Tristram Coffin, Sr. It is possible, though by no means certain, that his ordinary or tavern was located on that 8o OULD NEWBURY very spot two luiiulrctl and fift)- 3-cars a53. the town ordered that a free school should be kept in the meeting-house; and the master was recjuired "to teach all such inhabitants children as shall be sent to him as soon as the\- know their letters and begin to read." In 165.S, "for want of a latin scoole." the inhabitants of Xewbuiy were fined XS " unles the)" b)' the next Court ])ro\)-de a latin- Scoole Master according to law." What answer was made to this order of the court is uncertain. <■' TRAYNEING GREEN'' AND NEW POND 105 The records of the town for several years preceding and subsequent to that date have been lost or destroyed, and only a few items recorded during those years can now be found. In 1675 Henry Short was appointed schoolmaster at a salary of J[,^ for the first half-year and 6d. a week for every scholar. Nov. 22, 1678, "The selectmen proposed to the town whether they would continue to give twenty pounds a yeare out of the town rate to maintain the schoolmaster, and they voted in the affirmative." April 13, 1680, it was voted that the town should pay out of the towne Rate twenty pounds for this yeare to Mr. Emerson for to keep schoole. July II, 1680, the records of the General Court contain the following : — Answer to the peticion of seuerall inhabitants of Newbery, as M"" Jno Woodbridge, Joseph Hills, Anthony Som'"sby, Rich^' Dumer, & others, the Court Judgeth it meete to order & impower the Selectmen for the towne of Newbery, for the encouragement of learning & main- tenance of the schole master there, to take effectuall care to rayse, by way of rate on the inhabitants, the some of sixty pounds P anum to be ye Sallery of the Schoole Master there. — Massachiiseiis Bay Colony Records, volume 5, page 272. Evidently, Mr. Emerson, taking advantage of this order of the court, declined to accept less than ^60 a year for his services. In August, "the town voted upon Mr. Emerson's answere that they dismist him & had no further dependence on him to teach Schole in the Town." Sept. 14, 1680, at a towne meeting Lieut. Woodman, Samuel Plumer, Thomas Hale, junior, & Robert Long chosen & sent by the Towne to Mr. Emerson to treat with him about keeping the schoole, who asked him whether he was under any agreement with the Towne for this yeare. Hee answered he was under no agreement with the Towne. Then being asked whether he would accept of twenty pounds a yeare from the Towne with the pay of the schollars, his answer was hee would not ; then we asked him what would content him, his answer was three score pounds a yeare. Io6 OULD XEWBURY We haueing made our Returne to the Towne concerning what is above expressed. The Towne sent us againe to Informe Mr. Emerson That the Town had dismist him and liad no more dependance upon him for keeping Schoole. his answer was he would take no notice of it e.xcept wee brought the names of tliose that voted against him : then we answered him, It was voted twice : and the first time two held up their hands for him & in the last vote there was but one as wee could dis- cerne. Archelaus Woodman, Robert Loxc;. Samuel Plvmer. Thos : Hale. Juxr. The General Court, under date of Oct. 13, 16S0, or- dered : — In answer to the peticoii of Newbery. referring to the schoolmaster there, this Court doth order that M'' Emerson, present incumbent in said schoole. continew, upon the grant of this Court, vntill the next General Court, and that there may be further Consideration thereof, in case the towne be still vnsattisfied, and that the three score pounds ordered by this Court be pajd sajd Emerson accordingly. Oct. 22, 1680, the town voted "that the bargaine which the Comittee hath made with M"" Baily to keep Schoole should stand and was approved of by the major p' of the Towne." It was also voted that ]\Ir. Baily should keep school in the watch-house ; and a committee of three was chosen to make a settlement with Mr. Emerson, if possible, " and report what they have done ne.xt lecture day after lecture." Just how this troublesome question was finally settled is somewhat uncertain. The records of the town throw no ad- ditional light on the subject. The General Court, however, ordered May 11, 1681 : — In ans"" to the peticon of Nicholas Noyes, Samuel Plumer, etc., select- men of Newbery, humbly desiring that, being agreed, the late order for the payment of sixty pounds P am'im to their then schoole master may be repealled, the Court judgeth it meet to grant the peticon. Mr. ICdward Tompson was probabl}' the next schoolmaster in Newbury. In the list of town debts for the year 1684 is '' TRAYNEING GREEN'' AXD NEW POND 107 an item of ^^30 due " Mr. Mclward Tomson for keeping school this year." Mr. Seth Shove was undoubtedly employed as the successor of Mr. Tompson. In the Letter Book of Samuel Sewall, volume I, page 49, is the following from Saaiuel Sewall to John Richardson. Sif\ — I am informed p Mr. Emerson that Mr. Tomson hath a call to the South ward, which he inclines to ; and Brother Gerrish being here to see his Father tells me that Newbury is like to be destitute as to a School master. Now there is an Orphan, one Seth Shove, who proceded Bachelour the last Commencement, who, I beleve, might be to accepta- tion Serviceable in that Kind. Wherefore, if you find Persons so far In- clinable to uphold a School in that Town, as that you may do it without prejudice to Yourself, Should Intreate you would Promote his being there. In which I hope you may pleasure the place, and Shew Kindnes to deceased Mr. Shove, whose worth I beleve vou Knew. I am apt to think such an exercise may be an advantage to his studies, especially re- specting the tongues, as much as if he should live att Cambridge these three years, which doubt he will not find convenience for. He has liv'd in our house sundry years, and have found him a person of sobriety and Commendable behavior, and I hope going abroad will benefit him upon that account and qualify that modesty or whatever it be that might be a hindrance of good manners. . . . My service to yourself and Mrs. Richardson : To Mr. Woodbrigg, with whome, if you see cans, you may Communicate the busines of this Letter. Sir, your friend and serv* Above is copy of a Letter to Mr. Jn° Richardson P Brother Gerrish, dated July 15, 1687. Oct. 18, 1687, the committee appointed by the town " agreed with Mr. Seth Shove to be ye lattin schoolmaster for ye town of Newbury for the present year." Nov. 2, 1687, Judge Sewall wrote to Richard Dummer, Esq., "for his Approbation as to Seth Shove's Teaching School at New- bury " ; and Nov. 13, 1690, he wrote Mr. Seth Shove as follows : — If you have named the selectmen to provide themselves of another Schoolmaster, send me word of it, and the time, by the first conveyance. If you have not yet done it, I would have you forbear doing it, till you I08 OULD NEWBCKY hear furtlier from me: Because I have an Intimation, as if Yarmouth people are universally desirous of injoying Mr. Jno. Cotton, of Pli- mouth, who supplied them in .Mr. Thornton's absence. I have it only from one hand, and no notice from Mr. Thornton. If it prove so. I would not have you be discouraged. The Lord. I hope, will fit you for his work, and call you to it in the most convenient time and place.* S. .S. In May, 1691, the town voted to pay Mr. Seth Shove " thirty pounds for the year ensuing provided he will be our schoolmaster," etc. In 1693 Mr. John Clark was employed to assist the Rev. John Richardson in his work of the ministry, "and also to keep a grammar schoole." June 5, 1695, the town voted to give Mr. Christopher Toppan "thirty pounds a year so long as he shall keep a grammar and a Writing Schoole, the scholars to pay as they did to Mr. John Clarke." July 29, 1696, the town offered Mr. Nicholas Webster ^30 a year in country pay to keep a grammar school, " pro- vided he demand but four pence per week for Lattin scholars, and all the town's children come to him to read, write & cipher without pay." In October, 1701, Mr. Richard Brown was engaged to assist in the ministry at the First Parish during the illness of the Rev. Christopher Toppan ; and July 2, 1702, the town " voted to give Mr. Richard Brown twenty pounds for his yearly salary, and to have fourpencc a week for his Latin scholars." The first innkeeper in the town of Newbury was h'rancis Plumer. He was licensed Sept. 3, 1635, by the Cicneral Court "to keep an ordinary." June 6. 1637, the court granted John Knight license " to keepe an ordinar)' and give intertainment to such as neede." May 22, 1639, " Kdmond Greenlyf of Newberry is p'mited to kecpe a house of inter- tainment." This license was exidentl}' renewed from \ear to year until 1649, when lie remoxed to Boston. Dec. 26, 1647, (ieorge Carr was granteil libert)" to keep * Letter I'umk. \ciluiiie i, page 112. ''TRAYNEING GA'EEJV" AND NEW POND 109 the ferry over Merrimack River from the SaHsbury side ; and Tristram Coffin, Sr., was granted the same privilege from the Newbury side, and was also allowed " to keep an ordi- nary and retayle wine." His house of entertainment was probably near the foot of Ferry Lane (now Jefferson Street), opposite Carr's Island. After the year 1647 all questions relating to the keeping of houses of entertainment or licenses for the sale of strong: drink were referred to the county courts for consideration and final settlement. " Henry Somerby was licensed to keep an ordinary instead of M' Greenleaf," in September, 1650. At that date Mr. Somerby probably occupied the house now known as the Coffin house. He died in 1652 ; and his widow married Tristram Coffin, Jr. At her decease the house came into the possession of Nathaniel Coffin, her youngest son by this second marriage ; and his descendants still own the property. In 1653, Steven Swett was allowed to keep a place of public entertainment, and his license was annually renewed until the year 1667. He owned and occupied a comfortable dwelling-house on the westerly side of the high-road near the head of Muzzey's Lane (now Marlborough Street). This house was afterward purchased and remodeled by Hugh March, and was for many years liberally patronized by the travelling public* * For a more particular account of this famous hostelry tlie reader is referred to the sketch entitled " Blue Anchor Tavern." BURYING-GROUND OF THE FIRST PARISH IN NEWBURY. When the inhabitants of Newbury removed from the old town to the new town in 1646, they erected a new meet- ing-house " on a knowle of upland by Abraham Toppan's barne." This land was originally granted and laid out to John Moulton, who subsequently conveyed it to Abraham Toppan. A record of this transfer was made in the Proprietors' Book. In 1660, a new place of worship was erected on the southerly or southeasterly side of this lot, and in 1 700 still another house was built a few rods farther to the southeast. The house erected in 1700 was occupied until Jan. 25, 1868, when it was destroyed by fire, and dur- ing the year the present structure was built on the opposite side of the street. The land under and adjoining the meeting-houses of 1646, 1660, and 1700, with subsequent purchases added thereto, now forms the burying-ground of the First Parish in New- bury. It contains about three acres. The first burials were made in a space not exceeding one hundred and twenty- five feet square in the northwest corner. Only a few of these early graves are marked by stones, and it is probable that nothing more than a simple mound of earth covered the last resting-place of many of the early settlers of the town. In some cases, undoubtedly, the ancient monuments erected there have crumbled to decay and disappeared. The oldest stone within the enclosure marks the grave of Isaac Brown, who died "ye second day, third month of 1674." Others of a later date are much worn, and the inscriptions upon them can only be deciphered with great difficulty. The 112 OULD NEWBURY first ministers of the church in Newbury, and nearly all their successors in office down to the beginning of the present century, were buried there. Forty-five or fifty years ago some of the stones that stood at the head of these graves, becoming worn and dilapidated, were replaced by new ones of durable dark blue slate. At the present time the tablets and monuments of this old graveyard bear the names of the following persons who have been regularly ordained and settled as ministers or teachers in the First Parish of Newbury : — Rev. Thomas Parker, who died April 24, 1677. Rev. Jame.s Noyes. who died Oct. 22. 1656. Rev. John Woodbridge, who died March 17, 1695. Rev. John Richardson, who died April 27, 1696. Rev. Christopher Toppan, D.D., who died July 23, 1747. Rev. John Tucker, D.D., who died March 22, 1792. Rev. Abraham Moor, who died June 24, 1801. Other prominent names found on tombstones now standing are as follows : — Captain Paul White, who died in 1679. Richard Dumer, who died in 1679. Mrs. Frances Dumer, widow of Richard Dumer, who died in 1682. Ann Ordway, wife of James Ordvvay, who died in 1687. Henry Sewall, who died May 17, 1700. Mrs. Jane Dummer Sewall, widow of Henry Sewall. who died in 1701. Col. Daniel Pierce, who died in 1704. Tristram Coffin, Esq., who died in i 703-4. Mrs. Judith Coffin, widow of Tristram Coffin, who died in 1705. The town of Newbury granted .April 25, 1655, "to Cajit. Paul While a parcell of land, not exceeding half an acre, about Watts his cellar, for to make a dock, a wharf, and a warehouse." This grant was accepted by Cai')tain White; and the dock, wharf, and warehouse were built by him the following year. He continued to own and occujiy the prop- erty until his death, July 20, 1679. The inscription on the stone that marks the grave of FIRST PARISH BURYING-GROUND 113 Henry Sewall and his wife, Jane Uummer Sevvall, was un- doubtedly written by Judge Samuel Sewall, their eldest son, whose words of tenderness and affection spoken at the burial of his mother will be forever associated with this hallowed spot. The following epitaph to Colonel Daniel Pierce gives him a superfluity of titles, but bears truthful testimony to his ability and faithfulness : — Here lyes interred what was mortall of ye Honourable CoUonal Daniel Pierce, Esq^ who having faithfully served his generation both in civill & military station fell asleep April ye 22'i 1704, aged 66. Here lies interred a soul indeed, Whom few or none excelled. In grace if any him exceed, He'll be unparallelled. On the tombstones of Tristram Coffin and his wife are the following inscriptions : — To the memory of Tristram Cofifin, Esq., who having served the first church of Newbury in the office of a Deacon 20 years died Feb. 4, 1703-4, aged 72 years. On earth he pur-chas-ed a good degree, Great boldness in the faith and liberty. And now possesses immortality. To the memory of Mrs. Judith, late uirtuous wife of Deac. Tristram Coffin, Esq^ who having lived to see 177 of her children and children's children to the 3'^ generation died Dec. 15, 1705, aged 80. Graue, sober, faithful, fruitfuU vine was she, A rare example of true piety. Widovv'd awhile she wayted wisht for rest. With her dear husband in her Savior's brest. Not far from these graves is a large freestone slab, on which the following epitaph is inscribed : — Here lyes interred the body of the very Hon. William Partridge, Esq-", who sustained the Government of New Hampshire for several years, and departed this life January 3'' 1728, & in the ■] f"^ year of his age. 114 OULD NEWBURY After the overthrow of Sir Edmund Andros as governor of the colony of Massachusetts Bay, the inhabitants of New Hampshire were greatly disturbed and irritated by conflicting claims to the ownership of lands within that province. William Partridge espoused their cause, and was urgently recommended as lieutenant-governor to the Lords of Trade in England. He was a native of Portsmouth, a shipwright of extraordinary mechanical ability, and a very poi)ular man. He went to England, and returned with a commission dated June 6, 1696, appointing him lieutenant-governor and com- mander-in-chief of the province of New Hampshire in the absence of Governor Samuel Allen, who had not then arrived in America. He continued in this office under the adminis- tration of Richard, Earl of Bellemont, who came to New Hampshire in 1699 for a brief visit of eighteen days, and de- parted leaving the lieutenant-governor in control of public affairs. July 26, 1703, Partridge was superseded by John Usher, of Boston, who after a long struggle succeeded in obtaining a commission from the queen, appointing him lieu- tenant-go\'ernor. Partridge soon after remo\-ed to Newbur}% Mass., where he spent the rest of his days in mercantile pur- suits. He had a son Richard, who was agent for the province in England, and a daughter, who married Jonathan Belcher, governor of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Daniel Noyes, born Oct. 23, 1673, son of John Noyes and grandson of Nicholas Noyes, has a quaint old headstone, bearing this inscription : — Here lyes ye body of Mr. Daniel Noyes. who died March ye 15"' 1 71 5-16, aged 42 years 4 months and 23 days. As you are. so was I. God did call and I did dv. Now children all, Whose name is Noyes. Make Jesus Christ Your only choice. Timothy Noyes, born Jime 23, 1655, son of Nicholas Noyes, FIRST PARISH BURYING-GROUND 115 and a nephew of Rev. James Noyes, has an epitaph similar in style and sentiment : — Here lies ye body of Mr. Timothy Noyes, who died August ye 2i«' 1 718, aged 63. Good Timothy in His Youthfull days He liued much Unto Gods prays. When age came one, He and his wife They liued a holy & a pious life. Therefor you children Whos nams are Noyes Make Jesus Christ Your only Choyse. The oldest gravestones in this burying-ground were prob- ably brought from England, and are noticeable for their great width and thickness. They are similar in design and work- manship, and were undoubtedly imported with the winged cherub's head carved at the top, and the scroll-work or border extending down each side, leaving a blank space for inscriptions that were inserted by stone-cutters here. A hard, dark, flinty slate stone from North Wales was much used, though occasionally supplanted by a native granite bowlder or slab in its rough state, inscribed with name and date only. The lettering upon these tombstones does not seem to have been executed according to any known rule ; and the curious mixture of large and small letters, with now and then an omission or abbreviation, gives them the appearance of having been carved with hieroglyphics. The' modern hearse was unknown to the early settlers of New England. The dead were usually borne to the grave by friends or kinsmen. " Two sets of bearers were appointed : under-bearers, usually young men who carried the coffin on a bier ; and pall-bearers, — men of age, dignity, or consanguin- ity, — who held the corners of the pall which was spread Il6 OULD NEWBURY over the coffin and hung- down over the heads and bodies of the under-bearers. As the coffin was sometimes carried for a long' distance, there were frequently appointed a double set of under-bearers, to share the burden." The Church of England provided in the l^ook of Common Prayer a service for the burial of the dead ; but the men who organized the colony of Massachusetts Bay, in their desire to ignore the rites and ceremonies of the mother church, forbade the reading of the scriptures as well as prayers at funerals. Now and then a sermon was delivered at the burial of some distinguished j^erson ; but the first prayer of which special mention is made was offered at the funeral of Pastor Adams, of Roxbury, in 1683. The Boston Ncivs Letter of Dec. 31, 1730, commends a recent burial service at which prayer was said, and speaks of it as an uncommon and noteworthy Christian observance. Still, the innovation gained ground very slowly, and was not generally adopted until the begin- ning of the nineteenth century. Judge Sewall, in his Diary, mentions several instances where the committal service of the Church of England was read at the funeral of some distinguished friend ; but he condemns the practice in unmeasured terms. Having attended the funeral of a daughter of Colonel By- field at Dorchester, he comments on the exercises at the grave as follows : — Aug' 28, 1 70S. Mrs. Taylor is buried in Mr. Stou,i.:;hton"s Tomb: Bearers, Col. Foxcroft, Mr. Palmer. Mr. Newton, Mr. Mico: Mr. Pain, Mr. Harris, Col. Byfield there, and Mr. Lyde with three children, Mr. Leverett and wife; Mr. Angier and wife. Mr. Sargeant and Col. Hutch- inson were there with their wives as Relations, dov'' and his Lady, Maj. C}en' Winthrop and his Lady, Mr. .Secretary. Sewall, Mr. E'" Hutchin- son, Belcher, Mr. Bromfield there; and nianv otliers. There was no Prayer at the House; and at the (irave Mr. Myles read Comon Prayer; which I reckon an Indignity and affront done to Mr. Stoughton and his Friends: There apears much Ingratitude and Baseness in it because twas Mr. Danforth's Parish, and Mr. Danforth's wife is Cousin German to Col. Taylor: and Col. Byfield and his deceased daughter discenters as I supose. 1 was mucii surpris'd and grieved at it. and went not into the burying place. FIRST PARISH BURYING-GROUA-D 117 A few days later he writes : — At 3 P.M., Sepf I, 1708, the Council meets, from thence they goe to the Funeral of Mrs. Lyde, Col. Byfield's eldest daughter. Remember- ing what I had met with at her Sister's Burial at Dorchester last Satter- day, I slipt from the Company up to my daughter's, and so went home, and avoided the Funeral. The office for Burial is a Lying, very bad office : makes no difference between the precious and the vile. WATTS' CELLAR AND FROG POND. The land grants made by the proprietors of Newbury and the subsequent conveyances recorded in the Essex Registry of Deeds indicate that the territory from " Trayneing Green " to Bartlett's Cove, and from South and Low Streets to the Merrimack River, was divided into house lots of four acres each, and assigned, between the years 1642 and 1646, to the ninety-one original freeholders whose names are given on page 292 of Coffin's History of Newbury. The map that accompanies this sketch gives the size and shape and name of the owner of every lot of land in the vicinity of Watts' Cellar and Frog Pond, and also the loca- tion of every house known to be standing in that portion of Newbury, in the year 1700. The map is drawn upon a scale of six hundred feet to an inch, by Sidney Perley, Esq., of Salem, Mass., from measurements taken from recorded deeds, and is, therefore, reliable and accurate. The titles from the original grantees in 1645 can, in most cases, be clearly and distinctly traced to the owners of the property in 1700. The changes in the ownership of the four-acre lots, included within the limits of High Street, Ord- way's Lane (now Market Street), Merrimack Ri\-er, and Chandler's Lane (now Federal Street), are gi\-en in detail on subsequent pages of this book from memoranda furnished by Mr. Perley. The old house that formerly stood on the southeasterly corner of Ordway's Lane (Market Street) and tlic country road (High Street) has been suj^posed, b)- those who were somewhat familiar with its liistor)', to ha\-e been tlie residence of W'illiam Morse in 1679, '^'^^' ^'""-' ^cene of the witchcraft delusion described on ]iages 122 to 134, inclusi\e, of Coffin's WATTS' CELLAR AiVD FROG POND 12 1 History of Newbury. A thorough and careful examination of the deeds of conveyance and probate records made for the purpose of ascertaining the actual facts for publication in this volume proves conclusively, however, that the residence of William Morse in 1679 was on the southeasterly side of Market Square, as will be seen by reference to the sketch descriptive of that locality. The land on the corner of Ordway's Lane and High Street was first granted to Thomas Browne, and came into the pos- session of John Bartlett, Sr., previous to the year 1660, as will appear in the abstract of title to be given on a subse- quent page. Joseph Morse bought the land April 3, 1701. In the deed of conveyance no house is mentioned. He re- tained possession of the property for fort}^ years, and is the first person of that surname who is known to ha\'e lived there. He probably built the house that was standing on the land at the time of his death. The division line, running nearly east and west, between the land of Stephen, Edmund, and John Greenleaf and John Bartlett, Hannah Morse, and others, is nearly, if not exactly, the centre of the street afterward laid out and now called Green Street. Benjamin Dole and John Dole, owners of the land at the foot of Greenleaf's Lane, on the westerly side of what is now Market Square, were grandsons of Richard Dole, merchant, who came from Bristol, England, and settled in Newbury in 1639. They inherited the estate from their father. Dr. John Dole, who was a ph)'sician, and the eldest son of Richard Dole. The following deposition, recorded in the Essex Registry of Deeds (Ipswich Series, book 3, page 131 (98), has some historical interest, and is especially worth noting in connection with this description of Dr. Dole's old home- stead : — The deposition of Thomas Rawlings, aged about 28 years. This deponent testifieth that about seven years & foure months past, being at the house of Richard Dole, heard Mr. ffuller profer and engage to Richard Dole, that if he would lett his Sonn John Dole be with him, as long or as little while as his ffather pleased, and did also engage to 122 OULD NEWBURY teacli and instruct the sayd John Dole in his art lK: calling wh he did practice, what he could, and maintain him freely as a child of his owne, exsept clothinij. all which the sayd ffuller did engage to doe out of love & respect unto Richard Dole and his wife for the curtisies that the sd ffuller did owne he had received from the sayd Dole, and further this deponent saith not. Sworn in Court held at Ipswich the 28 day of September. 1669. As attest Robert Lord, Cleric. Recorded 6 (.S) 69. From 1725 to 1801 the lliird Parish meeting-house occupied the triangular piece of land designated on the map as common land, and now known as Market Square. Watts' Cellar was probably in existence long before the settlement of Newbury. It was on the northerly side of the highway, near the bank of the Merrimack River, and was originally used for the storage of fish by the few brave and intrepid fishermen who occasionally visited the New England coast at that early day. The earliest deeds and grants men- tion this old landmark, and Greenleaf's Lane is at first desig- nated "the way to Watts Cellar." March 26, 1642, the town of Salisbury " granted to Robert Ring two acres of upland upon the island over against Watts' Sellar to be em- ployed about fishing for two years," thus indicating that the inhabitants of Salisbury were familiar with the name and location of Watts' Cellar, although the house that once stood there had disappeared. The middle shipyard, for many years after the settlement of the new town, was used as a landing-place for boats and for the unloading of hay, wood, and timber. It was con- venient and easily accessible ; and, when the rixer lots were divided in 1707, it was allowed to remain undistiu-betl. Vessels were j^robably built there prex'ious to that date, although no record of the fact exists. March 11, 1711, the town voted "that Major Henry Somerby, Captain Sergant, and Lieut. Titcomb sliall ha\e power to let }e buikling )ard near Watts' cellar (so called) unto Col. Partridge, Mr. Clement, and Mr. Hodges on such terms as they may agree for." JVATTS' CELLAR AXD FROG POXD 123 The river bank below this building place was low and marsh)^ with rocks extending out into the river, and two narrow inlets between these ledges, called the east and west gutters, through which the tide ebbed and flowed. In 1655 Captain Paul ^^'hite was granted half an acre of land " about Watts his Cellar for to make a dock, a wharf, and a warehouse upon " ; and similar grants were made to Richard Dole in 1675, and to Stephen Greenleaf, Daniel Davison, Nathaniel Clark, and others in 1680. Tradition asserts that a narrow creek formerly extended from the west gutter through what is now Market Square, and thence through the land owned by Captain Peter Coffin and Thomas Mood}- to the river at the foot of Chandler's Lane ; but there is no evidence to be found in the Registrv of Deeds at Salem to establish the truth of this statement. Thomas Moody was a son of Caleb Moody, and for many years was engaged in business as a maltster on the eight-acre lot on Water Street, between Greenleaf's Lane and Chandler's Lane. The southern half of this lot, next to Chandler's Lane, was originally granted to Aquila Chase in 1646, and the other half was owned by his brother-in-law, David Wheeler ; and there, on a certain memorable occasion, was committed a very grave offence, concerning which the records of the county court state that in the month of September, 1646, "Aquila Chase and wife and David Wheeler of Hampton were presented for gathering peas on the Sabbath day." For this offence they were ordered to be " admonished," but the fines usually imposed in such cases were remitted by the court. Aquila Chase and David Wheeler remained in New- bury notwithstanding this unpleasant episode, and retained possession of these two lots of land for ten or twelve years, as will appear from an examination of the titles hereafter given. Colonel Daniel Pierce probably owned, at one time, nearly all the land on the southerly side of Chandler's Lane from Merrimack River to the country road (High Street). His dwelling-house and malt-houses in the year 1 700 occupied the lower, or northeasterly, corner of this lot, nearly opposite 124 OULD NEWBURY the estate then owned by Tliomas Moody, maltster. His will, dated Auli;. 12, 1701, and proved May 8, 1704, gives to his grandson, John Wainwright, " my house standing on the north corner of that land my Malt house stands on " ; and in the di\ision of his estate this land is bounded ow Chandler's Lane, the highway, and land of George Pierce and William Johnson. To his son Joshua he gives "my now dwelling house with the malt house," and to his son Thomas "the house I built for him on Malt house land." THE MARCH-HASKELL HOUSE. March 11, 1698-9, Colonel Daniel Pierce, for love and other considerations, conveyed to Dr. Humphre)' Bradstreet, "who is the husband of Sarah, daughter of m}- brother Joshua ]'iei"ce," one acre and twent}' rods of land (Essex Deeds, book 18, page 57), to which Dr. I^radstreet subse- quently added the adjoining U)t purchased of Stephen Jaqui.sh, as shown on the map. Henry Lunt, Jr., owned land on the southeasterly corner of Chandler's Lane and the countr}' road as early as the year 1680. lie sold to Hugh March, Aug. 20. 1694, a lot of two acres, measuring lwenl>' rods on tlie countrv road and WATTS' CELLAR AXD FROG POND 125 sixteen rods on Chandler's Lane. No buildings are mentioned (Essex Deeds, book 10, leaf 65). Jan. 15, 1703-4, Hugh March sold to Benaiah Titcomb one dwelling-house, one barn, one shop, and two acres of land "bounded on the highway Southwesterly and against Chandler's Lane Northwesterly" (book 27, leaf 170). Jan. 27, 1709-10, Cornet Benaiah Titcomb sold to his son Edmund, who was then living there, the house and land " bounded northwest by Chandler's Lane, Southwest by ye country road, Southeast by Henry Lunt, Junior, northeast by John Calef " (book 23, leaf 147). Aug. 8, 1 716, Edmund Titcomb sold to Joshua Beck two acres of land, with "all the buildings thereon except the shop," bounded and described substantially as above (book 30, leaf 152). Dec. 30, 1724, Joshua Beck sold to Benjamin Peirce the above-described land, " with all the housing now standing on said land" (book 44, leaf 173). May 17, 1 771, Benjamin Pearce sold to Mark Haskell about one and three-quarters acres of land " where I now live in Newburyport, with my now dwelling house," on the corner of High Street and King Street (now Federal Street) (book 129, leaf 163). The house above described was owned and occupied by the descendants of Mr. Mark Haskell until the year 1892, when it was taken down and a new house erected on the site. Frog Pond, like Watts' Cellar, was evidently well known to the early settlers of Newbury ; and grants of land in the new town, previous to 1646, frequently mention the pond, and prove conclusively that it was then, as now, a natural, and not an artificial, sheet of water. In the abstract of title to the property owned by Stephen and Edmund Greenleaf on the corner of Greenleaf's Lane and the country road, in the year 1700, the grants and convey- ances to and from John Bond, John Bishop, and Daniel Pierce, furnish all the evidence needed to show that the pond was in existence as early as the year 1646. MARCH-HASKELL HOUSE - A CORNER OF THE LIVING-ROOM. MARCH-HASKELL HOUSE - FIRE-PLACE IN SOUTHWEST CHAMBER. WATTS' CELLAR AXD FROG POND 127 At a later date the records of the town of Newbury con- tain frequent allusions to this old landmark. At a general meeting held March 2, 1667, the following vote was recorded by Anthony Somerby, the town clerk : — In consideration of Penuel Titcomb his resigning & yealding up to the Town five & twenty rods of his land joining unto land by the Old house and his Aple trees, and so running over part of his garden as it is bounded with stakes. & for the Towns use forever, to enjoy which he doth by these presents. There is laid out to Penuel Titcomb a parcel of land about his house by Frog pond twenty five rod Square, as it is bounded with stakes at the four Corners, to enjoy to him & his heirs for ever. At a general town meeting held in March, 1667, ''William Titcomb proposed for the exchange of a parcell of land neer the well at the frog pond to give land proportionable to set his dwelling house upon. The Towne voted that he should have so much, provided it exceed not a quarter of an acre. Archelaus Woodman, John Bartlett, senior, & Richard Knight were appointed to lay it out." At this time sheep-raising was one of the leading industries of the town ; and the common land from Parker River to Arti- choke River furnished the pasturage for five flocks of sheep, averaging nearly one thousand to each flock. These sheep were attended by shepherds, and kept within certain pre- scribed limits. The " frog pond flock " was allowed the range of " Aps swamp from James Smith to George Marches bridge and dismal ditch and Robin's pound." Hill Street was laid out at a very early date, and James Smith owned land on the westerly side of it near the town commons, as appears from the following petition : — July 15, 1687, the humble petition of Hugh March & Thomas Titcomb to the town of Newbury, Whereas, as our land butteth upon the highway or street called the Hill Street, we humbly request that we may have the benefit of free passage as in other of his Majesty's high- ways. Hugh March, Junior, Thomas Titcomb. 128 OULD XEIVBURY The town granted the proposition above said, the s"d street to be laid open on the first day of November next, & so to lye open perpetually. Dissent James Smith.* The pond at Pine Swamp, with the land adjoining the same, owned b)- I'enuel Titcomb and John Stickney in the year 1700, was originally granted to William Titcomb and Amos Stickne}' by an order adopted Sept. 19, 1670, as follows : — Concerning William Titcomb & Amos Stickney, their proposition for the Little Pine Swamp that is enclosed by their Land. The Towne granted the Little Pine Swamp aforesaid to be their propriety, as they both shall agree, to be to them, their heirs & assigns for ever, w'^ skirts of y'^' comon adjoyneing, provided that they make & maintaine a suffi- cient fence about the hole for the safety of the Townes cattle from time to time. William Titcomb died Sept. 24, 1676, and Amos Stickney died Aug. 29, 1678 ; and the Pine Swamp came into the possession of Penuel, son of William Titcomb, and John, son of Amos Stickney. The lofty pine trees once growing in that neighborhood have disappeared ; and the area of the swamp is now reduced to a shallow basin, on the southerl}' side of Oak Hill Cemetery, where the water collects and forms a small pond, as marked upon the map. On the corner of the country road and the way leading to the town's common stood in the year 1 700 a dwelling-house, with twent)'-eight acres of land, owned by Henry Somerby. As early as 1648 a portion of this property was in the posses- sion of Anthony Somerby, the first schoolmaster of the town. Among the grants and con\-e}ances recorded in the Proprie- tors' ]^()ok are the following: — May 16, 164S, .Anthony .Somerl)y was granted a house lot in tlie new town, in the upper nine lots, of 4 acres, . . . bounded by Henrv Lunt on the east, Samuel .Scullard west. Street north (X: common on the South. Richard Ikirtlet did acknowledge May i ^). 1 C14N. for and in consid- eration of eighteen shillings already received in work and the plowing * .See Newbury Records. WATTS' CELLAR AND FROG POND 129 and breaking up of four acres of land, to have sold unto Anthony Somerby of Newbury all that four acre lot with the fences thereto be- longing, being in the upper nine lots w^'^ formerly was laid out for an house lot for John Pemberton, w^'' John Pemberton sold to his brother James Pemberton. and James Pemberton did also exchange w* Richard Bartlet for a portion of land in little north field, the which four acres being bounded w* the land of iVP Snelling on the east. John Bishop land on the west, and the street on the north & "common on the South, and to remain unto Anthony Somerby and his heirs for ever. Witness, W-i Titcomb. Henry Lunt ack™i April 2, 1648, That for 25 bush" of Wheat & 28 bush'^ of Indian corne to have sold to Anthony Somerby 4 acres in that verge of lots called the upper nine lots in the Newtown on West s'' of s'l A. Somerby"s land. A. Woodman east, street north, common south. March 25, 1659, Anthony Somerby bought of Gyles Crom- lome and wife Alice four acres of land in the upper nine lots, " bounded west by Peter Godfrey, north by the streete, south by the common, east by the land sold by Richard Fitts to Anthony Somerby." And the same day he bought of Richard Fitts and wife Sarah four acres, " bounded east by Anthony Somerby, west with four acre lot Gyles Cromlome sold to Anthony Somerby, north by street, south by the Common" (Ipswich Deeds, book 4, leaf 238). Abiel Somerby, born Sept. 8, 1641, only child of Anthony Somerby, died Dec. 27, 1671, leaving several children. An- thony Somerby died July 31, 1686. In his will dated Jan. 22, 1685, proved Oct. 20, 1686, he gives "to his grandson Henry Somerby my now dwelling house, barn and orchard and twenty-eight acres. of arable and pasture land adjoining the house." Colonel Henry Somerby, by his will dated April 5, 1722, proved Dec. 23, 1723, devised to his brother Abiel "my farm house where I formerly lived, with twenty four acres of land adjoining the same." Abiel Somerby sold to his son Abiel Somerby, Jr., July 30, 1744, house, seven acres of land, east half of barn, etc. (Esse.x Deeds, book 85, page 201). Oct. II, 1749, Abiel Somerby, Jr., sold a portion of the 130 OULD NEWBURY above seven acres of land to Daniel Farnham (book 102, page 208). Feb. 20, 1756, Abiel Somerby, Jr., sold to Daniel Farnham about twenty square rods of land on the corner of the country road and the way leading to the town's common, and adjoin- ing the land previousl}' purchased by the said P^arnum (book 102, page 277). Nov. 10, 1768, the heirs and devisees of Abiel Somerby sold to Daniel Farnham a small strip of land in the rear of the two lots previously bought by him (book 122, page 5). Daniel Farnham, the purchaser of this property, was born in York, Me., in 171 9. He graduated from Harvard College in 1739, and in July of the following year married Sybil, daughter of the Rev. Samuel Angier, of Watertown, Mass. After his admission to the bar he removed to Newburyport, and commenced the practice of law. On the land bought of Abiel Somerby he erected a large square dwelling-house a little back from the street. Three large elm-trees stood in front, and the garden was enclosed by a solid brick wall, which gave a substantial appearance to the estate. He was a man of ability, and took an active part in the administration of public affairs. He was one of the prominent petitioners for the incorporation of Newburyport, the person to whom the warrant for its first town meeting was directed, the mod- erator of its first annual meeting, and the chairman of its first board of selectmen. The Hon. Fben F. Stone, in a manu- script sketch of Colonel Farnham, says: — • In the early special meetings of the town relating to the Stamp Act and other measures of England to extort a revenue from the Colonies, before all hope of a peaceable adjustment of the controversy was aban- doned, he took an active and important part. But when the opposition of the Province to the policy of the Crown had passed the point consist- ent with loyalty, and every citizen was compelled to choose between two courses, neither of which was free from doubt and peril. Colonel I'"arn- ham. like the great majority of those who were well situated under the subsisting relations between the Colonies and the Ciovcrnment of Eng- land, and who could find in the alleged grievances no sut'ticient e.xcuse for disloyalty or rebellion, remained true to liis principles and stood by the King. Ardent, high-spirited, and imi)etuous. lie disdained to viekl WATTS' CELLAR AND FROG POND 131 to the suggestions of prudence which controlled the conduct of some of his friends, and boldly denounced the leading Whigs and liberty men as law-breakers and rebels. He was earnest and sincere in his support of the policy and principles of the established government, and un- doubtedly rendered himself obnoxious by his efforts to check the tumult and excitement that preceded the Revolution. He was a Tory, but still an able and conscientious citizen, who dared to express his views and opinions upon the im- portant questions of the da}'. In a recent article by Professor Moses Coit Tyler, pub- lished in the Amci-icaji Historical Review, the writer sa}'s : " Hardly have we known, seldom have we been reminded, that the side of the Loyalists, as they called themselves, of the Tories, as they were scornfully nicknamed by their oppo- nents, was even in argument not a weak one, and in motive and sentiment not a base one, and in devotion and self-sacri- fice not an unheroic one." Daniel Farnham, misrepresented and reviled by his per- sonal friends and political associates, resisted to the utmost of his ability every act likely to hasten the separation of the colonies from the mother country. He died May 18, 1776, only a few weeks before the declaration of independence. His tombstone, in the Old Hill bur\'ing-ground, in addition to his name and the date of his birth and death, bears the fol- lowing inscription : — For we must needs die. and are as water spilt on the ground which cannot be gathered up again. — 2 Samuel 14 : 14. In the division of his estate his house and land on Hidi o Street, opposite the head of Market Street, were assigned to his son William Farnham. April 1 , 1 8 1 6, William Farnham sold the house and land to Lawrence Sprague (Essex Deeds, book 209, page 118). April 2, 1 816, Lawrence Sprague gave a mortgage deed of the property to Jonathan Marsh (book 209, page 118) ; and possession was probably taken under foreclosure, as no deed of conveyance is recorded. 132 OULD XFJVBURY Jonatlian Marsh died March 7, 1825; and administration on his estate was granted March 29, 1825, David Marsh, Jr., of Haverhill, being appointed administrator. Lydia A. Marsh, Robert Marsh, John Marsh, Nathaniel Marsh, and others signed the petition as heirs to the estate. In the in- ventory mention is made of "house and other buildings and fifty-si.\ rods of land under and adjoining the same on High Street in Newburyport." The Rev. John Marsh, of Haddam, Conn., and others con- veyed a part of the house and land to David Marsh, 2d (Essex Deeds, book 241, pages i, 2, and 3). The deeds from David Marsh, 2d, and other heirs to Na- thaniel Marsh are not recorded. Nathaniel Marsh died in December, 1838 ; and his widow, Sarah, was appointed administratrix of his estate the first Tuesday in January, 1839. The inventory mentions " man- sion house on High Street." Dec. 2, 1865, Adeline M. Merriam, of Topsfield, and others, heirs of Nathaniel Marsh, conveyed to William E. Marsh house and fifty-seven rods of land on the corner of High and Auburn Streets, Newburyport (book 695, page 27). Nov. 6, 1 87 1, William E. Marsh and wife L^llen, of Plain- field, N.J., sold to Henry P. Toppan, of Newburyport, "house and land bought of Adeline M. Merriam and others," de- scribed as above (book 840, page 75). Nov. 14, 1 871, Henry P. Toppan sold the estate to the city of Newburyport (book 840, page 31). The old mansion house built by Daniel I^'arnham was re- moved to another location, and subse<.|uentl\- destro}ed by fire. In 1872 the city of Newburyport erected on the corner of High and Auburn Streets the large brick building known as the " Kelly School-house." On the southwesterly side of High Street from P^-og Pond to Chandler's Dane (now P'ederal Street) there were only two houses standing in I700,^()ne on land owned b\- Benjamin Coker, and the other on land owned 1)\' John Weed. IVATTS' CELLAR AND FROG POXD 133 Brown's Lane, or Brown Street, laid out by Moses Brown about the year 1803, in order to gain access to the rear land that he then owned, follows nearly, if not exactly, the division line between the land of Benjamin Coker and the land of John Bartlett, Joseph Titcomb, and Penuel Titcomb, from the country road (High Street), as marked on the map. For confirmation of this statement see conveyance from Enoch Thurston to Moses Brown, recorded in book 173, page 75. Robert Coker was one of the early settlers of Newbury. In the removal to the new town in the year 1646 he was granted land on both sides of the country road. He built a house, which he owned and occupied for many years, on the northeasterly side of the road at the corner of Chandler's Lane. He died May 19, 1680. His will, dated Sept. 20, 1678, proved March 29, 1681, gave to his son Benjamin six acres of land on the southerly side of the highway, " next to Daniel Lunt's " ; and to his son Joseph the remainder of the lot, consisting of ten or eleven acres, on the same side of the way or street. Dec. 26, 1692, Joseph Coker conveyed to his son Benjamin Coker " three acres of land in the great field," bounded northeasterly on the highway (book 26, page 91). Benjamin retained possession of this land for more than fifty years. He also acquired adjoining land, by purchase or by inheritance, from his father's estate. Feb. 24, 1745, Benjamin Coker sold to Michael Shute three acres of land in the great field on the southwesterly side of the road (book 88, page 108). May 7, 1756, Michael Shute sold the land to Parker Noyes (book 103, page 162). In the will of Deacon Parker Noyes, dated June 28, 1782, and proved May 26, 1788, he gives to his son Silas "three acres of land in Coker' s field." May 8, 1797, Dorcas Noyes, widow and administratrix of Silas Noyes, conveyed to Ebenezer Stocker three acres of land on High Street (book 162, page 241). F'eb. 18, 1800, Ebenezer Stocker sold to F^benezer Wheel- 134 OULD NEWBURY wri^iit one and one-half acres of land i)urchased of Dorcas No}-es, widow of Silas Noycs (book i66, page 264). On the other half of this lot I'^benezer Stocker built the house afterward i)urchased b\' William Wheelwright, Esq., and now known as the Old Ladies' Home; and Ebenezer Wheelwright built on the land conveyed to him the house now owned and occupied by the writer of this sketch. Sub- sequent deeds and conveyances of "one and one-half acres of land with the buildings thereon, formerly the j^roperty of Ebenezer Wheelwright," are as follows : — Jan. I, 1 812, Ebenezer and Abraham Wheelwright to Peter LeBreton, merchant, — bounded northeast by High Street, southeast b)' land of heirs of Nathaniel Carter, southwest by land of heirs of Moses Brown, northwest by land of the late Ebenezer Stocker (book 196, leaf 112). The will of Peter LeBreton, dated April 9, 181 1, recorded in the Probate Office, book 83 (old series), leaf 216, gives to his son Peter LeBreton and daughter P^lizabeth Stickney the remainder and residue of his estate after the payment of cer- tain legacies. Dec. 13, 1 81 3, l^lizabeth LeBreton, widow, Peter Lel^reton, merchant, Daniel Stickney, merchant, and Elizabeth, his wife, quitclaim to P2benezer Wheelwright (book 206, leaf 42). June 22, 1 82 1, PLbenezer WHieelwright to James Meyer (book 226, leaf 162). Oct. 7, 1824, James Meyer mortgages to Newburyport Bank (book 236, leaf 118). May 4, 1827, Oilman White, deputy sheriff, to Jeremiah Nelson (book 247, leaf 3). P'eb. 26, 1830, Newburyport Bank assigns mortgage to Jeremiah Nelson (book 257, leaf 93). P^'b. 26, 1830, Jeremiah Nelson to William Alexander (book 257, leaf 93). April, 1834, William Alexander to John Chickering (book 292, leaf 237). Sei)t. 4, 1840, John Chickering to Samuel 'P. l)el"^)rd (book 322, leaf 260). Sept. 9, 1840, Samuel 'P. DePord to Sarah Chickering (book 322, leaf 260). WATTS' CELLAR AXD FROG POXD I3S Nov. lO, 1 87 1, heirs of Sarah Chickermg to John J. Cur- rier (book 842, leaf 30). The title to the estate owned by John Weed can be traced with a reasonable degree of accuracy down to the present time, but it is somewhat uncertain whether the house now standing on the lot was built previous to the year 1700. Many changes and transfers of the property are recorded. At one time, apparently, the house was divided, and had two owners, Richard Pike and Nathan Allen. Subsequently the lean-to on the northwesterly side was removed, and at a later date the building was remodeled and thoroughly repaired. Henry Lunt, who came to Newbury in 1635, was the owner of several acres of land in this vicinity at the time of his death, July 10, 1662. His son Daniel Lunt, born May 17, 1 64 1, married Hannah Coker May 16, 1664. April 20, 1695, Daniel Lunt sold to John Weed one acre of land with house and barn thereon, bounded on the north- east b}^ the highway or country road, on the southeast and partly on the southwest by land in the possession of Henry Lunt (son of Henry Lunt, Sr.), and on the northwest and partly on the southwest by land of Benjamin Coker (Essex Deeds, book 12, leaf 116). Nov. 6, 1732, Henry Lunt, Jr., sold to John Weed, Jr., five or six acres adjoining the above-described land (book 61, leaf 169). John Weed died in 1758. In the division of his estate the one-acre lot with part of the house was assigned to his widow. His only child, Abraham Weed, evidently came into possession of the rest of this estate. Sarah Weed, the widow of John, died in 1772. Her will, dated Oct. 12, 1768, and proved Oct. 28, 1772, provides for the payment of certain bequests, and gives the rest and resi- due of her estate to her executor, Ezra Hale, in trust, to hold during his life, and then to the Rev. John Tucker, or to his successor in the ministry in the First Parish of Newbury, for the use of a school for the poor children belonging to the society of said parish. WATTS' CELLAR AND FROG POND 137 Part of a dwelling-house with two and three-quarters acres of land adjoining are mentioned in the in\'entory of this estate ; also a little house and land under it given to Joel Weed, a negro slave. The last-named house was on the same side of the street, a few rods below the house formerly owned and occupied by John Weed, and was some years later conveyed to the town of Newbury in settlement for expenses incurred in the support of the said Joel Weed. May 22, 1789, John Hale, administrator of the estate of Sarah Weed, sold at auction to Edmund Knight (at the house of Oliver Putnam, innholder) twenty-six rods of land and part of a dwelling-house, bounded on High Street, etc. (book 165, leaf So). Dec. 12, 1789, P:dmund Knight sold to Nathan Allen about nineteen rods of land on High Street, with the divid- ing line on a range with the westerly end of the said Allen's house, etc. (book i66, leaf 93). Jan. 29, 1795, P:dmund Knight sold to Richard Pike seven rods of land and part of a dwelling-house, described as fol- lows : "beginning on High Street by Green Pearson's land, thence by said street 45^ feet to where the linter part of the house adjoins Nathan Allen's house," etc. (book 159, leaf 49). April 29, 1799, Richard Pike sold to Philip Coombs seven rods of land and part of a house, bounded and described as above, " being the same premises I bought of Edmund Knight Jan. 29, 1795 " (book 164, leaf 274). Nov. 24, 1800, Levi Mills, administrator of the estate of Nathan Allen, conveyed to Abigail Allen, widow, land bounded and described as follows : northeasterly on Norfolk (now High) Street, southeasterly by land of Philip Coombs, southwesterly by the same, and northwesterly by land of John O'Brien and Philip Coombs, the dividing line "running northeasterly between the main house & back lintal to the middle of the chimney, thence running southeasterly to the front of the house, thence running northeasterly at the distance of one foot from the house to Norfolk Street " (book 172, leaf i«79). 138 OULD XEWBURY May 31, 1803, Abigail Allen sold to Philip Coombs land with buildin<;s thereon, bounded on the northeast by Norfolk Street, on the southeast and southwest by land of Philip Coombs, on the northwest by land of John O'Brien and Philip Coombs (book 172, leaf 179). Jan. 22, 1 82 1, Philip Coombs, of Bangor, Me., sold to Mi- cajah Lunt the house and land purchased of Richard Pike April 29, 1799, and of Abigail Allen May 31, 1803 (book 224, leaf 268). March 21, 1836, Micajah Lunt sold to David Perkins Page the above-described property (book 290, leaf 7). David P. Page died Jan. i, 1848. His widow, Susan M. (Lunt) Page, died Leb. 5, 1878. Henry T. Page and Mary L. Coffin, children of David P. and Susan M. Page, gave a deed June 10, 1878, of one-half house and land to Susan M. Currier (book looo, leaf 216). P2mily C. W. Page, guardian of David Perkins and Rufus Wills Page, grandchildren of David P. Page, June 28, 1878, conveyed one-quarter part of house and land to Susan M. Currier (book lOOO, leaf 216). TITLES TO LAND BETWEEN ORDWAY'S LANE AND CHANDLER'S LANE. The lot owned by John Bartlett at the corner of Ordway's Lane and the country road contained eight acres. One-half of the lot, next the country road, down as far as the first two stars, was granted to Thomas Browne in 1645 or 1646, and was owned by him in 1647. There is no conveyance in the registry of deeds from him. The next recorded deed is from William Titcomb to Christopher Bartlett, dated March I, 165 1, describing the lot as follows : — Four acres of land in Newbury in the field called the lower nine lotts, bounded by the highway neare the frogg pond on the south & Cross Street on the west, John Bond's land on the east, & John Bart- lett's on the north (Ipswich Deeds, book i, page iii (325). There is no deed on record from Christopher Bartlett. The other half of the lot, consisting of four acres of land, was probably granted to John Pike, Jr. At all events he conveyed to John Bartlett, of Newbury, Nov. 29, 1647, " four acres in ye verge of lotts on the north side of the frogge pond in Newbury, in the New towaie, being bounded on ye north with the land of Anthony Morse, on the south with the land of Thomas Browne, on the east end the land of John Bonde, and on the west with the Streete." Acknowl- edged 1 8th day, third month, 1650 (Ipswich Deeds, book i, page 54 (177). John Bartlett, Sr., conveyed to his son John Bartlett, Jr., May 29, 1660, six acres of this land, bounded on the north- west by Cross Street, on the southwest by High Street, on the southeast by Stephen Greenleaf, and on the northeast by the grantor (Ipswich Deeds, book 3, page 177 (132). 14° OULD NEWBURY The other two acres were retained b)' John liartlett, Sr., until his death, Feb. 9, 1678-9. In his will he devised to his son John l^artlett, to whom he had deeded the si.\ acres May 29, 1660, the remaintler of the lot between the last two stars and the land of Hannah Morse ; and so the entire lot came into the possession of John Bartlett, Jr. In the year 1679, when the supj^osed case of witchcraft in Newbur)', was brou<;ht to the attention of the court at Salem, and in 1680, when Elizabeth, wife of William Morse, Sr., was condemned to death, b}' the court of assistants held at Bos- ton, for her sinful beha\ior, "instigated by the Divil," this corner lot of eight acres of land was the property of John Bartlett, Jr. He retained possession of it for more than twenty years after the trial of Elizabeth Morse, and so far as the records show there were no buildings upon it. The tradition that William Morse once owned and occupied a house on this lot of land is, therefore, erroneous. He died Nov. 29, 1683. His residence at that date was on the south- easter!)' side of what is now known as Market Square ; and the memorable scenes described by many witnesses in the testimony quoted by Coffin in his History of Newbury (pages 122 to 134 inclusive) undoubtedly occurred in the old house then standing there. There is no evidence that any person by the name of Morse owned land on the corner of Ord way's Lane and High Street until April 3, 1701, when John l^artlett sold to Joseph Morse one acre and eight rods, bounded on the northwest by Ord- way's Lane twenty-four rods, on the southwest by the coun- try road seven rods, and on the southeast and northeast by the grantor's land (book 21, leaf 178). In this conveyance there is no mention of house ox other buildings. Joseph Morse died in 1744. 11 is will, dated May 19, 1741. ])r()\-ed Sept. 27, 1744, gi\es to his " son Joseph and two children of son Daniel "' about one acre of land and to son lulmuntl the I'cmainder of his real estate, which in- cludes house and land on the corner of ()rdwa}'s Lane. lulmund Morse, b)' will dated June 16, 1788, proved June 28, 1790, de\'ised the southwestern half of the house and land LAND TITLES 141 to his daughters, Eunice Rogers and Keturah Gerrish, bounded northeasterly by the other half of the house and lot (devised to his son Edmund Morse), northwesterly by Market Street, and southwesterly by High Street. Dec. 15, 1 81 5, George W. Rogers gave to Keturah Ger- rish a quitclaim deed of " house and land given to my mother, Eunice Rogers, by my grandfather, Edmund Morse, in his last will, bounded northwesterly by Market Street and south- westerly by High Street " (book 208, leaf 257). The northeastern half of the house and land devised by Edmund Morse to his son Edmund was by the latter devised to his son William Morse. In the year 181 5 William Morse gave to Keturah Gerrish a quitclaim deed of the northeastern half of the house and lot (book 206, leaf 200). Keturah Gerrish died in the year 1822, and by her will devised the house and land to the heirs of Lois Greenleaf. Subsequent conveyances recorded in the Essex Registry of Deeds are as follows : — Feb. 17, 185 1, Richard O. Greenleaf to Philip K. Hills (book 440, leaf 294). Dec. 13, 185 1, Philip K. Hills and others to William J. Creasey and others (book 455, leaf 221). Jan. 24, 1852, William J. Creasey and others to Charles W. Lander (book 455, leaf 243). Nov. 16, 1852, Charles W. Lander to widow Lydia S. Lander (book 468, leaf 139). April 16, 1884, children and heirs of Lydia S. Lander to Mary C. Haynes (book 1130, leaf 176, and book 11 66, leaf 136). Hannah Morse's four-acre lot on Ordway's Lane was granted to Anthony Morse, her grandfather, in 1646. Mr. Morse died Oct. 12, 1686, and in his will devised all his real estate to his son Joshua Morse. Joshua Morse died March 20, 1 690-1 ; and, in the division of the estate Feb. 27, 1699- 1700, this tract was assigned to his daughter Hannah Morse, who subsequently married John Emery, Jr. No house is mentioned upon this lot before 1700. 142 OULD NEWBURY The lot of lulward Richardson of two acres and three- quarters, with the l^adi;er lot adjoining", was probably granted to Edward Richardson. It was owned by Edward Richard- son in 1665 and by Sargeant lulward Richardson in 1692, the latter continuing to hold the legal title to the homestead, though it was occupied by Joshua Richardson in 1695, and by Caleb Richardson later. A house had existed on this lot for several years before 1 700, probably. The lot of John Badger, at Badger's corner, at the junction of Ordway's Lane and the highway along the ri\er, contained an acre and a quarter. The first owner of this lot was John Browne, so far as any records have yet revealed. He sold the place to Henry Greenland, the physician who came to Newbury, according to Coffin, in 1662. Dr. Greenland re- tained possession of the property but a short time; and Jan. 12, 1665 (probably 1665-6, when he was banished from the town), he sold it to Israel Webster, who was related to John Browne by marriage. Wlien Dr. Greenland sold this prop- erty a house was mentioned in the deed (Ipswich Deeds, book 4, leaf 7). Mr. Webster owned the place until his death, which occurred Dec. 7, 1683. The next owner re- corded was Thomas Huse, of Newbury, a mason. Air. Web- ster's son-in-law. He owned it in 1692 ; and May 6, 1695, for ^46, he sold it to John Badger, of Newbury (book 42, leaf 64), who dwelt in the house for many years, from which fact this corner became known as "Badger's corner." The triangular lot of Benaiah Titcomb on the highwa}- along the ri\er contained an acre and a quarter, and was owned in 1665 by Anthony Morse. Oct. 9, 1678, he sold it to Benaiah Titcomb, who continued to own it until after 1700 (book 14, leaf 107, and Ipswich Deeds, book 4. leaf 327). No house or otiiei" huilcHug is mentioned in this (\k^k:^\. The field at the corner of the countr\' I'oad and Greenleaf's Lane was owned b\' Stephen and lulniund (ireenleaf in the year 1700. ()ne-tliiicl pari of this field next to the ct)untr\- LAND TITLES 143 road, down as far as the first two stars, was granted, prob- ably, to Daniel Peirce. He acknowledged before Anthony Somerby, clerk of the town of Newbury, " that in ye yeare 1645 he sould to John Bond four akers of land more or less as it lyeth in that parcell of lotts by the frog pond & Watts Sellar & to be fully satisfied, it is bounded with the street on the South & east, by the land of Thomas Brown on the west, and the land John Bishop sould to the said John Bond on the north." Upon this land John Bond built a house and barn. The other third part of this field, between the four stars, was granted to John Bishop. He acknowledged Feb. 27, 1649, "to have sould to John Bond four akers of land in the field that is between the ** frog pond & Wats sellar & to have received full satisfaction, & it is bounded on the north with four akers of land that John Bond bought of John Emery, on the south with that land that John Bond bought of Daniel Peirce, on the west the land of John Bartlett, & the street on the east." The remaining third part of this field was probably granted to John P2mery, Sr. He acknowledged " P"eb. 20, 1649, that in the year 1645 he sould unto John Bond also of ** four akers of land lying in that parcell of lotts *** the frog pond and Watts Sellar, being fully satisfied, ** between the land ** Cromlome the north, John Bishops lot on the south, *** on the east, & the land of Anthony Morse on the west." John Bond was a husbandman of Newbury. Nov. 20, 1660, he conveyed the entire field of twelve acres with the house and barn to Stephen Greenleaf, of Newbury, bounded with " a lane going down to Watts Sellar on the east, and the High Street on ye South, John Bartletts land on the west, & the land of Gyles Cromlon on the north" (Ipswich Deeds, book 2, leaf 85 (176). Captain Greenleaf conveyed the upper end of this twelve- acre lot, with the buildings thereon, to his son Stephen Greenleaf, soon after the marriage, probably, of the latter to Elizabeth Gerrish in 1676. The deed, if one passed between them, has not been discovered. 144 OULD XElVBrRY Stei)hen (irccnlcaf, Sr., clicd in 1690. In his will he de- xised to his son Stephen one-half the homestead lot next to the said Stej^hen, and the remainder of the lot to his son Edmund. The land remained in the possession of the two brothers undi\ided until after the \ear i 700. John (jreenleaf s lot of five acres was part of the original eight acres of Gyles Cromwell, who owned it as early as 1660, and to whom it may have been granted in the laying out of the new town. Mr. Cromwell died in Newbury Feb. 25, 1672-3 ; and in his will he devised the whole estate to his daughter Argentine, wife of Benjamin Cram. Dec. 22, 1692, John Cram, of Hampton, probably son and heir of Ar- gentine, conveyed five acres of the lot to John Greenleaf, of Newbury, the rest of the original lot having been already disposed of (book 10, leaf 4). Mr. Greenleaf continued to own these fi\'e acres, which he thus obtained, until after 1700. The lot of Richard Dole, containing about two acres and a half, was a part of the eight acres owned by G}les Crom- well in 1660. He died Feb. 25, 1672-3, and in his will devised the entire lot to his daughter Argentine, wife of Benjamin Cram, of Hampton, N. H. Mr. and Mrs. Cram sold this lot to Richard Dole, of Newbury, merchant, March 8, 1674-5 (book 22, leaf 86). He died possessed of the lot after 1 700. The lot of Benjamin Dole and John Dole, containing about an acre, was a part of the eight acres owned b)' Gyles Crom- well in 1660. He died I'eb. 25, 1672-3, and in his will devised the entire lot to his daughter Argentine, wife of Benjamin Cram, of Hampton, N. H. Mr. and Mrs. Cram conveyed this lot, with the house thereon, to Richard Dole, of Newbury, a merchant, March 8, 1674-5 (book 22. leaf 86). Mr. Dole conveyed this house ami lot to his st)n Dr. John Dole (who was at that time in occupation of the place and had been li\ing in the house ])robabl\- since his father bought it in 1675) Aug. 16. 16S1 (book 10, leaf 171 ). Dr. LAND TITLES I45 Dole died in 1694, intestate. In the division of the real estate his widow, Mary Dole, was given the northeast end of the house and other property for her life as her dower, and the fee of the real estate was assigned two parts to the deceased's eldest son, Benjamin Dole, and one part to the younger son, John Dole. These persons were owning the lot in 1700. The lot of Benaiah Titcomb, containing half an acre, was a part of the eight acres owned by Gyles Cromwell in 1660. He died Feb. 25, 1672-3, and in his will devised the entire lot to his daughter Argentine, wife of Benjamin Cram, of Hampton, N. H. Mr. and Mrs. Cram conveyed this lot to Richard Dole, of Newbury, a merchant, March 8, 1674-5 (book 22, leaf 86) ; and Mr. Dole conveyed it to Benaiah Titcomb July 15, 1695 (book 14, leaf 108). He continued to own it in 1 700. The lot of Hathorn Coker, of three acres and eighty-three square rods, at the corner of the country road and Green- leaf's Lane was granted, together with the western end of Benjamin Coker's lot as far as the stars, to Francis Plummer in 1645. He sold the lot, which contained four acres, to Robert Coker, both of Newbury, and both yeomen, Jan. 7, 165 1-2 (Ipswich Deeds, book i, leaf 109 (322). Mr. Coker already owned the lot adjoining on the country road, and lived there. Mr. Coker died May 19, 1680; and in his will he devised this lot to his son Joseph Coker. Joseph died in 1697, and in his will devised his real estate to his sons Benjamin and Hathorn, who made a di\-ision, Hathorn taking this lot. The lot on Greenleaf's Lane, containing four acres, owned by John Bartlett, was originally granted to Samuel Plummer. In the town records, under date of :March i. 1648, the follow- ing transfers of land are recorded : — Said Plummer sold to Edmund Moors four acres in that virge of lotts that Butteth on the lane going down to Watts his Sellar on the 146 OULD NK]VBURY right hand o{ the street. . . . Edmund Moors, of tliis Towne. March i. 1648. acknowledged to have sold unto John Bartlett. also of this Towne. the four acres of planting land that lately was Samuel Plumers that lyeth in that verge of lotts on the right hand going down to Watts Sellar, bounded w"> the street on the west, the land of Henry Somerby on the north and east. l\: the land of Francis Plumer on the South. May 29, 1660, John Bartlett con\-eyed to his son John Bartlett, Jr., the lower half of this lot with a house upon it, extendini;" from a line drawn between the two stars marked on the map to the land of Edward Richardson. He retained the upper half of the lot, which also had a house upon it, and where he undoubtedly lixed (Ipswich Deeds, book 3, leaf 177 (13^)- John Bartlett, Sr., died Feb. 5, 1678-9. In his will he devised the upper half of this lot to his son John ; and, if the said John should die without issue, then to his kinsman, Christopher Bartlett. June 6, 1 68 1, Christopher Bartlett conveyed his interest in the lot to John Bartlett, Jr. (book 1 1, leaf 177). By this conveyance John Bartlett, Jr., came into the pos- session of the entire lot of four acres. He retained posses- sion of it until his death in 1 707. The western part of the lot of Edward Richardson, e.xtend- ing eastward as far as the stars, contained four acres, and, an old deed asserts, was owned by Henry Somerby in 1648. Mr. Richardson t)wned it as early as 1660, and also the easterly half, which contained the same number of acres. The title continued in Edward Richardson, father, son, and grandson, until 1700. In 1719. the house upon it was called " the old house." The lot of r'awn Clements, containing eight acres, was earl)- owned by Richard i^'itts, of Newbury, who called him- self a planter. He died Dec. 2, 1672, and in his will dc\ised all liis real estate in \ewl)ui"N' to his nephew .Abraham l*"itts, of Ipswich. Abraham con\eyed the lot to his son Abraham, who was also of Ipswich, April 12, 1680 (Ipswich Deeds, LAND TITLES ^47 book 5, leaf 208). May 19, 1684, Abraham, Jr., conveyed it to Edward Ordway, both of whom were then of Ipswich (Ipswich Deeds, book 5, leaf 209). Mr. Ordway built a house upon the land, and removed to Newbury, making this his home. May 24, 1699, he sold the property to Fawn Clements, of Newbury, who owned it many years (book 13, leaf 185). The lot of Captain Peter Coffin, containing four acres and ten rods, was the four-acre lot granted to William Morse in 1645, and a little strip one rod wide and ten rods long in the northern corner subsequently purchased. Apparently, before 1677, Mr. Morse had given his son Jonathan a little strip out of this lot near the northern corner, twenty-six feet wide on the street and running back one hundred and eighteen feet, probably to build a house on ; but, instead of doing that, he sold the land to John Wells, who conveyed it, Nov. 30, 1677, to John Tucker, a mariner, of Newbury (book 31, leaf 12). Mr. Wells had just removed from Newbury to Boston, and was a carpenter by trade. Another strip of the same size as this, and on the eastern side of it, had got into the hands of Thomas Follingsby, of Newbury, and his wife Mary. They had the frame of a house set up on the lot when they sold it with the frame to Mr. Tucker for ^14, Dec. 7, 1677 (book 31, leaf 12). William Morse died Nov. 29, 1683, after suf- fering from the affliction of early witchcraft ; and in his will he devised the place, house, barn, and land, to his daughter Abigail, wife of John Hendricks. Mr. Hendricks died soon after, and she married Moses Pengry. Major Daniel Davison had probably bought the place upon the death of Mr. Morse ; but no deed passed until June 19, 1696, when Moses Pengry, of Newbury, a shipwright, and his wife Abigail (formerly Abigail Hendricks), as executrix of the will of her father William Morse, gave to Major Davison a deed of the house and lot which the deceased had owned and devised to her (book 36, leaf 63). July 6, following, they gave another deed, in their personal capacity (book 36, leaf 52). In the mean- time Major Davison had purchased of Caleb Moody, March 148 OL'LD NEWBrRY 26, 1686 (?), the little strip at the northern corner, ten rods long and one rod wide (Ipswich Deeds, book 5. leaf 179). This strip was a part of the lot owned by David Wheeler in 1659, which he con\e)ed to Caleb Moody, 16: 11 : 1667 (Ipswich Deeds, book 3. leaf 50 i^S). Aug. 27, 1698, Major Daxison bought of Captain John Tucker his mansion house and lot, thus bringing that little plat back into the large lot again (book 25, leaf 92). The old house of William Morse was probabl)' allowed to go to pieces, and the house of Cap- tain Tucker's construction became the abode of Major Davison. Major Daxison was a merchant ; and Aug. 22, 1699, he conveyed to his wife's father-in-law. Captain Peter Cofifin, of Exeter, N. H., the entire estate (book 14, leaf 301). Captain Coffin continued to own the premises till 1714, when he conveyed them to Major Davison and his wife Abigail, who had probably resided there in the meantime. The lot of William Noyes, containing thirty-three square rods, was a part of the lot owned by David Wheeler in 1659, which was conveyed by him and his wife Sarah, who were of Newbury, to Caleb Moody, also of Newbury, 16 : 11: 1667 (Ipswich Deeds, book 3, leaf 50 (38). Mr. Moody sold this part of his lot to Mr. Noyes, who was a cooper, and of Newbury, Jan. 23, 1683-4 (Ipswich Deeds, book 5, leaf 28). Mr. Noyes owned it for several years after 1700. The lot of John March, containing tweh'e square rods, was a part of the lot owned by David Wheeler in 1659, which was con\-eyed b)' him and his wife Sarah, who were of New- bury, to Caleb Moody, also of Newbury, 16: 11 : 1657 (Ips- wich Deeds, book 3, leaf 50 {>,S). Mr. Mood)- sold this part of his lot to Mr. March, who was then of Xewbui\', and an "ordinary keeper," in November, 1684 (book 12, leaf 138). Mr. March owned the premises until after 1700. The lot of Captain lulwai"d Sargent, containing half an acre, was a part of the lot owned b\' l)a\id Wheeler in 1659, which was con\e\'ed b\' him. who was of Xewbui\'. to Caleb LAND TITLES I49 Moody, also of Newbury, i6 : 1 1 : 1657 (Ipswich Deeds, book 3, leaf 50 (38). Mr. Moody died in Newbury Aug. 25, 1698, intestate; and the estate came into the hands of his son, Thomas Moody, who conveyed this part of the lot to Captain Sargent, who was of Newbury, and a vintner, April 20, 1699 (book 13, leaf 144). The lot of Thomas Moody, containing about eight acres, consisted originally of two lots, the dividing line running between them from star to star. The eastern portion, next to Chandler's Lane, was owned by Aquilla Chase in the early settlement of this portion of Newbury, and he conveyed it, shortly before 1659, to Robert Rogers, of Newbury;. and Mr. Rogers, for £a,o, conveyed it, together with the house thereon, to William Moody April 4, 1659 (Ipswich Deeds, book 2, leaf 206). Mr. Moody's son Caleb occupied the prop- erty, and he probably erected the malt-house standing there. He was a maltster ; and June 3, 1673, his father conveyed to him the premises, with the dwelling-house, malt-house, etc., thereon (Ipswich Deeds, book 3, leaf 312 (239). The west- ern portion of the lot was a part of the lot owned by David Wheeler in 1659, which was conveyed by him, who was of Newbury, to Caleb Moody (who owned the other part of the lot), together with the house thereon, 16:11 : 1667 (Ips- wich Deeds, book 3, leaf 50 (38). Caleb Moody died Aug. 25, 1698, intestate; and, in the settlement of his real estate, this lot was agreed to be his son Thomas'. He owned the premises for many years, carrying on his business of a malt- ster, as did his father before him. The lot of Henry Hale, containing eight acres, was early in the possession of Henry Fay. He died, unmarried, June 30, 1655, and left a request that his brother's children should have his real estate. Thomas Noyes, of Sudbury, was evi- dently the heir, as he gave a power of attorney to lease the house and land. His attorney conveyed the premises to John Allen, of Newbury. Mr. Allen, for ^80, sold the land, with the house and barn thereon, to John Hale, of Newbury, 15° OULD XEIVBUKY Oct. 15, 1661 (Ipswich Deeds, book 2, leaf 117). Mr. Hale conveyed one undivided half of the land and house to his son Henry in 1695 (book 12, leaf 107), and the other half in 1699-1700 (book 15, leaf 145). Henry Hale owned it sev- eral years. The lot of William Chandler, containing ft)ur acres, was granted to Gyles Badger in or about 1646. He died July 10, 1647 ; and the premises were purchased by Henry Somerby immediately. In 1652, Mr. Somerby agreed to sell the lot to Mr. Chandler, who was of Newbury ; but the owner died Oct. 2, 1652, before the conveyance was executed. His widow married Tristram Coffin, of Newbury; and April 5, 1654, she completed the transfer as "executrix," and also personally (Ipswich Deeds, book 3, leaf 24 (17). Mr. Chand- ler owned the lot and house thereon until his death in 1701. The lot of Benjamin Coker, at the corner of Chandler's Lane and the country road, containing four and a half acres, was the whole of the four-acre lot owned by Robert Coker in 165 i ; and the remainder of the lot, being half an acre westerly of the two stars, was a part of the four-acre lot granted to Francis Plummer in 1645. Mr. Plummer sold his whole lot to Robert Coker, who was of Newbury, and a farmer, Jan. 7, 165 1-2 (Ipswich Deeds, book i, leaf 109 (322). Mr. Robert Coker died May 19, 1680; and in his will he devised this whole lot, together with the adjoining lot CM! the corner of Greenleaf's Lane and the countr}' road, to his son Joseph Coker. Joseph conveyed to his son Benjamin one acre of the lot, it being the eastern corner, the three stars showing the di\'ision line, Dec. 26, 1692 (book 26, leaf 91). Mr. Joseph Coker died in 1697, and in his will dexised his real estate to his sons J-5enjamin and Ilathorn, who made a division of the premises, Benjamin taking this lot, including the acre alread)' owned b\- him. WHARVES AND DOCKS. April 25, 1655, the town of Newbury "granted to Captain Paul White a parcell of land not exceeding half an acre, about Watts his cellar, for to make a dock, a wharf, and a ware- house, provided he do build a dock and warehouse as afore- said ; but the town granteth no liberty of freehold or com- monage hereby, and if he shall hereafter sell it, when he hath built upon it, the town shall have the forsaking of it." On the seventh day of May, 1656, this half-acre of land at the foot of Greenleaf's Lane "from the river by the great rocks upon a strait lyne to a stake by the way," and thence westerly by another great rock, etc., was laid out to Cap- tain Paul W^hite, who complied with the conditions of the grant, and built there the first wharf within the limits of the town. He retained possession of this property until Feb. 26, 1677, when he conveyed it to Thomas Woodbridge for life, and then to Paul and Thomas, sons, and to Mary, wife of the said Thomas Woodbridge (Essex Registry of Deeds, book 10, page 95). Thomas W^oodbridge, Sr., died very suddenly March 30, 1681 ; and some years later the wharf came into the posses- sion of his son Benjamin Woodbridge. The following depo- sitions, taken from the Essex Registry of Deeds, contain some interesting historical facts in relation to the original grant of this land by the town of Newbury : — Percivall Lowell, aged about seventy-two years, testitieth & Saith y' about fifty years Since, not long after y^' grant of about halfe of an acre of Land, laid out at y'^' point of Rocks near Watts his Cellar in Newbury to Cap' Paul White, now known by y'^' name of Cap* Whites warehouse point, y'' said Cap* Paul White desired me y deponant to goe w"^ him & with John Bishop, one of y'' Committee y' laid out y^' Land 152 OCLD NEWBURY above mentioned, to see y Bounds thereof. iS: y"' Said Jn" Bishop and Cap' White Shewed me y" Bounds of Said Land. '^gQ 168) land, with buildings thereon, ex- tending apparently from Merrimack Street to land C()n\e)'ed as above to Patrick Tracy. Tristram Coffin and Samuel Allyne Otis sold their one-half part of this property to An- thony and Moses Davenport, Jan. i, 1799 (book 164, page 198). Patrick Tracy retained possession of the wharf purchased of the widow and daughters of Colonel Richard Kent until Feb. 9, 1779, when he conveyed it to his son Nathaniel Tracy (book 136, page 293). Dec. 24, 1782, the adjoining estate, consisting of land, house, etc., formerly owned and occupied by John Greenleaf, was purchased b}' Nathaniel Tracy (book 140, page 79). July 24, 1786, Mr. Tracy was involved in financial diffi- culties, and mortgaged " the wharf bought of his father Pat- rick Tracy, lying near the lower end of P'ish Street in New- bur}'port, adjoining Merrimac Street, with land I purchased of Benjamin Greenleaf adjoining. The house on wharf property fronting on Merrimac Street " (book 145, page 250). March 8, 1788, Nathaniel Tracy o;ave a mortgage of the equity of this property to Thomas Russell (book 149, page 24). April 10, 1794, Tht)mas Russell sold to Nicholas Johnson and John Greenleaf, the wharf, house, etc. (book 158, page 80). Nov. 29, 1800, John (}reenleaf ga\e a quitclaim deed of the brick store and land under the same to Nicholas Johnson (book I 70, page 13). No\\ 29, 1800, Nicholas Johnson ga\e a quitclaim deed of the wharf, " excei)t the brick store on the premises," to John Greenleaf (book 168, page 174). For many years the wharf remained in the possession of Mr. Greenleaf, and was long known as (ireenleaf's Wharf and afterward as City Wharf. It is now owned and occupied b\- the l*hila(lel])hia & Reading Coal and Iron Compan\-. WHARVES AND DOCKS 157 Between the land granted and laid out to Captain Paul White April 25, 1655, and the land granted to Richard Dole Sept. 20, 1678, there was a narrow strip that was afterward used as a way to the ferry. The privilege of transporting passengers from this point, over the Merrimack River, to the Salisbury shore was granted to Colonel John March in 1687. In the town records, under date of Jan. 5, 1679-80, is the following memorandum : — Concerning Ensign Greenleafs and Mr. Davisons proposition for a wharf, It was voted and granted they, their heirs and assigns, should have at the point of Rocks above Watts his Sellar a place for to build a Wharf, to be three score foote at high water mark for tlie front & so down to low water mark. Provided the inhabitants of the town shall have liberty to land wood or hay or other goods, so that the said goods be not above twenty-four hours, neither at any time to do them damage. If a wharf was built at the point of rocks above Watts' Cellar previous to the year 1 700, no deeds or conveyances of the property have been discovered ; and no attempt has there- fore been made to locate it on the map. March i. 1679-S0. At a legall meeting of the freemen & Towne Nathaniel Clarke pro- posed for a parcel of the flats on the south east side of the point of Rocks that was granted to Capt. White, about three Rods broad at hy water mark & so to low water mark, to make a wharf. This proposition was voted and granted, but the Towne's Inhabitants shall haue free liberty to land goods upon it, provided they do not let them ly to Damnify the owner; And the wharfe is to be made up within three years or else, if it be not done then, the land is to returne to the Towne againe. Nathaniel Clark died Aug. 25, 1690. There is no deed conveying this property to any other person or persons pre- vious to the year 1700. March i, 1679-80. Benjamin Rolfe, Dr. Dole, & his brother Richard Dole proposed for foure or five Rod on the fiats from Watts cellar spring to Ensign Green- leafs & Mr. Davisons grant from hy water marke to low water marke to build a wharfe, & a place to build vessels upon. 158 OULD NEWBfRY This was also x'oted & granted, so that the}' come not within 10 or a dozen foot of the Spring, and the Inhabitants of the Towne shall have free liberty to land any goods upon it with pay, so that they do not damnify the owners. And thev are to make up the said wharfe within three years or else the land is to returne to be for the Townes use. This wharf was not built witliin the three years' limit. The land reverted to the town, and was granted to Stephen Greenleaf March i, 1696-7. At a town meeting held Jan. 10, 1686-7, the following action in relation to Mr. Daniel Davison's grant was re- corded : — Being mett, iM'' Davison having formerly proposed, The Towne Granted him a piece of Ground of twenty foot wide Joyning to M'' Doles Cirant ne.xt to his ware house & thirty-five foot long towards doc'' Doles house and M"" Tuckers. Lieu' Greenleaf, Serj. Moody. & Dr. Dole were appointed to lay out s'd lands. On the second day of April, 1687, Stephen Greenleaf, Sr., Caleb Moody, and John Dole, lot layers, laid out to Daniel Da\'ison a tract of land bounded as follows : — Northerly twenty feet from a rock by the .Slough next M"" Dole's warehouse grant and so to a stake by the highway between ye s"d M'' Davisons house & that, easterly thirty-five feet by the said highway, southerly twenty feet from ye s'l way to the Slough, westerly from the above said corner rock thirty five feet along l)y the said Slough. There is no conveyance of this ])roperty from Daniel Davison recorded previous to the )-car 1700. March 1, 1695-6, the town granted .Ste})hen (ireenleaf four or fixe I'ods of land near Watts' Cellar "to build a wharfe and a ])lace to build \-essels u])])on " on condition tliat the grant "come not within ten or tweh'c feet ot the spring. " March 2, 1696-7, 'i'ristram Coffin and lleiuy .Sliort, lot layers, laid out "to Capt. .Stephen Crcenlcal' a paicell of flats and Rocks L)'ing on Merrimack Rixer nccr Watts Cellar, boundetl northerl)- b}- the rix'cr Merrimack at low water maik, WHARVES AXD DOCKS I59 Easterly by Maj. DaA-ison's Grant, southerly b)' the Common Land of Newbury, and the westerly bound comes w"'" about fifteen foote of the spring, w'^'' land we have laid out and bounded to s'' Capt. Greenleaf on the terms and conditions that it was granted to him b)' the Towne." June 1 6, 1699, Captain Stephen Greenleaf sold to Benaiah lltcomb a "lot of flats and rocks in Newbury granted to me near Watts Cellar" (Essex Deeds, book 17, page 72). Jan. 16, 1694-5, the town granted to Hugh March and Captain John March " a piece of ground and flatts to build a wharf and dock near Captain March's barn." July 4, 171 3, Captain Hugh March sold to John Calef, clothier, "land and flats in Newbury, granted by the town to myself and brother John March, lately deceased" (Essex Deeds, book 25, page 236). Dec. 26, 1723, Susannah Jacobs, widow, of Boston, for ^300, conveyed to Captain William Walker, of Great Britain, mariner, house, warehouse, land and flats, bounded south by the country road, west by Hugh Pike, or by a town way lead- ing to the water side between the lots, north by Merrimack River, east by Captain Edward Sargent, or highway between the lots, formerly the estate of John Calef, recovered of him on judgment by said Susannah Jacobs in April, 1721 (book 42, page 90). Oct. 25, 1729, William Walker to Joseph Atkins, the es- tate described substantially the same as above (book 58, page 252). Nov. 29, 1782, William Atkins to Benjamin Harrod, land, house, flats, etc., " being the same premises conveyed by William Walker to my late father, Joseph Atkins " (book 140, page 59). March 24, 1798, Mary Harrod, administratrix of the estate of Benjamin Harrod, to Abraham Jackson, a river lot in New- buryport, beginning at the southerly corner by Water Street and a town landing, and running northeastwardly by said landing to the channel of Merrimack River, with half the house and half the land belonging to the Harrod lot, so called (book 164, page 33). WHARVES AXD DOCKS i6i Oct. 7, 1830, Ann Jackson and others, heirs to the estate of Abraham Jackson, conveyed to William Hervey and John Orne the above described one-half part of the Harrod wharf property (book 262, page 279). Aug. 9, 1833, William Hervey and John Orne conveyed the same to the United States (book 272, page 160). Aug. 9, 1833, Mary Harrod, widow, and others conveyed the other half of this wharf property to the United States (book 272, page 159). On this wharf the United States built a substantial stone structure that has ever since been occupied as a custom- house. The city of Xewburyport is the port of entry for the district, which extends from the State of New Hampshire to, and includes, the town of Ipswich, Mass. Edward Sargent, whose name appears as the owner of wharf property in Newbury in the year 1700, bought of Thomas Thurloe, Sept. 30, 1695, land bounded easterly on Merrimack River and northerly on land of Hugh March and Captain John March (Essex Deeds, book 11, leaf 52). He is said to have lived in Saco, Me., and Portsmouth, N. H. He came to Newbury in 1690. He had charge of the lower ferry from September, 1691, until the year 1720, and was involved in a long and tedious lawsuit with the heirs of George Carr in regard to the rights and privileges granted the said George Carr by the General Court. He was licensed to keep an ordinary in 1 692 ; and his license was annually renewed until 17 16, and possibly for four or five years longer. His tavern was on the wharf just below the present custom-house. Eeb. 12, 1721-22, he sold to Joseph Greenleaf, innholder, the following described real estate : — Bounded by ye highway as ye fence now stands southerly, by land formerly granted to Capt. John March westerly, by the river Merrimack northerly, and ranging from ye road or highway above s'd streight with the east end of my Tavorn house where ye said Joseph Greenleaf now dwells to low water mark easterly, together with my said Tavorn house, stable, garden, thereon being and standing, . . . and full privelege of 1 62 OULD NEWBURY passing and repassing upon niv land which Ives between ye said Tavorn house and that house of mine wherein John Calfe now dwells (Essex Deeds, book 40. leaf 148). After tlic year 1700 the whar\-e.s and docks along the river- side steadily increased in number. As early as 1730, William Johnson, John Greenleaf, and others were granted liberty to build a wharf at the foot of Chandler's Lane, afterwards called "the lower long wharf," and at the same time Abiel Somerby was granted permission to build a wharf at the foot of Ordway's Lane that was subsequently designated " the upper long wharf " ; and between these two extreme points other active and enterprising merchants had their warehouses and docks. The growing demands of commerce ultimately led to the construction of wharves and ship-yards beyond these limits, and the foreign and domestic trade continued prosperous and profitable until the beginning of the Revolutionary War. During that season of prosperity Michael Dalton, Patrick Tracy, Stephen Hooper, Joseph Marquand, Moses Brown, and William Bartlett were among the most prominent ex- porters and importers in the colony of Massachusetts Bay. \\\ the summer of 1775 the scene along these wharves was animated and exciting. Privateers were being made ready for active service ; and the first one, owned by Nathaniel Trac)', then a young man twenty-four }'ears of age, sailed from Newburyport in the month of August. On the nine- teenth day of September troops to the number of ten or twehe hundred men, under the conunand of Colonel Benedict Arnold, embarked on board ten transports moored at the whar\'es near the centre of the town, and were taken to the mouth of the Kennebec River to join tlic expedition for the capture of Uuebec. While the war lasted, trade with foreign countries almost entirely ceased ; but armed cruisers and privateers were con- stantl}' arrixing and departing, ami occasionalh' prizes of great \alue were cai)ture(l and hi-ought safeh' into ])ort. Witli the return of jieace mcrchantinen were again Iniilt ant! WHARVES AND DOCKS 163 rigged on the Merrimack River, and business of all kinds awakened to new life. The embargo of 1807 and the War of 18 12 checked the commercial prosperity of the town, and the introduction of railroads and the de\'elopment of steam-power within the past fifty years have gradually concentrated the bulk of the for- eign and coasting trade in two or three large cities on the Atlantic coast. The old wharves of Newbur}'port are comparatix'el}' de- serted ; but the half-tone print on a preceding page gives a partial view of them as they were in the year 1864, with the ship " Sapphire," built by John Currier, Jr., lying at City Wharf, and the bark " Mar)' Alice," built by James Merrill, at Brown's Wharf. THE NOYES HOUSE. The Rev. Thomas Parker, first pastor of the church in Newbury, was born in 1595, came to Ipswich in May, 1634, and ■ from thence to Newbury in 1635. He was the only son of the Rev. Robert Parker, an eminent clergyman and scholar of Wiltshire, England, who on account of his relig- ious opinions was obliged to take refuge in Holland, where he died in 16 14. The Rev. James Noyes was born in Choulderton, Wilt- shire, in 1608, and educated at Oxford. After his arrival in New England he preached for some months at Medford, but came to Newbury in 1635, and was settled as teacher of the church (at its organization), with the Rev. Thomas Parker as pastor. His father was the Rev. William Noyes, who married Anne Stephens, daughter of Nicholas Stephens, Esq., of Burdrop Manor, in Wiltshire, England. The Re\-. Robert Parker married Dorothy Stephens, a sister of Anne Stephens ; and, therefore, the Rev. James Noyes was a cousin of the Rev. Thomas Parker, and not a nephew, as is some- times erroneously stated. In the last will of Mr. Noyes he speaks of Thomas Parker as " cozen." Cotton Mather, in the " ^lagnalia," says of them : — They taught in one school (in England): came over in one ship; were pastor and teacher of one church; and 'Sir. Parker continuing always in celibacy, they lived in one house till death separated them for a time. Their first residence in Newbury was at the Lower Green ; but, on the removal of the meeting-house in 1646 to the Upper Green, Mr. Noyes built a house on what is now known as Parker Street, and lived there until his death. 1 66 OULD NEWBURY In the Proprietors' Book, pai;"e 12, it is recorded that, In consideration of Mr. James Xoyes his Resigning up into the towns hands four acres by the River side, two acres in Richard Kents Island. & four acres in the Neck behind the Great Swamp, they granted him eight acres by tlie new Pond at the new Towne to Continue to him and his heyrs for euer. There is no date to this record ; but it is probable that the grant did not take effect until 1646, as the commissioners appointed in 1642 to lay out the new town ordered "that in respect of the time for the inhabitants remo\'eing from the place they now inhabit to that which is layed out and ap- pointed for their new habitations each inhabitant shall have their house lotts foure years from the day of the date of this commission." The house was built about this time ; and the two cousins, minister and teacher, lived there in pleasant companionship for nearly ten years. Mr. Noyes died Oct. 22, 1656, aged forty-eight. Mr. Parker, writing of him, says: — Mr. James Noyes. my worthy colleague in tlie ministrv of the gospel. was a man of singular qualitications, in piety e.xcelling. an implacable enemy to all heresie and schism, and a most able warriour against the same. He was of a reaching and ready apprehension, a large inven- tion, a most profound judgment, a rare and tenacious and comprehen- sive memory, fixed and unmovable in his grounded conceptions : sure in words and speech, without rashness ; gentle and mild in all his ex- pressions, without passion or provoking language. And. as he was a notable disputant, so he never would provoke his adversary, saving by the strong knocks and heavy weight of argument. He was of so loving and compassionate and humble carriage that I believe never were anv acquainted with him but did desire the continuance of his society and acquaintance. The will of the Rev. James Noyes, dated Oct. 17, 1656, and })ro\"ed Xo\'. 21, 1656, gave all his real and ]x'rsona] property to his wife. In the in\-entor}- of his estate, tiled in the Probate Office at .Salem, mention is made of " a liouse with seven acres of land adjoining, and an orchard," all valued at ;^iOO. The enclosure described as "an orchard" THE NO YES HOUSE 167 will account for the additional acre named in the original grant. His widow and children still continued to live in the house, with the Rev. Thomas Parker as an honored member of the family. Mr. Parker died unmarried April 24, 1677. After the death of Mrs. Noyes, which occurred ten or twelve years later, the house passed into the possession of her son Thomas, who married Sarah Greenleaf ; and for several successive generations they and their children and their children's chil- dren resided there, the last occupant. Miss Mary Coffin Noyes, of the sixth generation from the Rev. James Noyes, having died Jan. 26, 1895. The old house is still in a good state of preservation, as will be seen by a glance at the photographic view on page 164. The heavy oak frame shows no sign of decay, and the repairs that have been made from time to time have kept the exterior walls in good order and condition. The chimney was formerly about four yards square at the base, and ex- tended nearly to the back wall of the house. About fifteen years ago it became necessary to somewhat reduce its size. In doing this, the existence of a secret closet was discovered. There was no entrance to it from either the first or second story, and the only way it could have been reached was from the cellar. It was evidently constructed for the purpose of providing a safe hiding-place for gold and silver and valuable household effects. The winds have blown and the rains have descended and beaten upon the old house for two centuries and a half ; but it still stands, a memorial of the past, closely identified with the early history of Newbury and the domestic life of two of its eminent divines. THE COFFIN HOUSE. Tristram Coffin, the first of that name who came to Amer- ica, was born in Brixton, county of Devon, England, and with his wife (Dionis Stevens), mother, two sisters (Mary and Eunice), and five children settled at Salisbury, Mass., in 1642, but removed to Haverhill the same year. In Novem- ber, 1642, his name appears as a witness to a deed of land from two Indian sachems to the inhabitants of that town. Two of his children, I\Iar}' and John, were born during his residence at Haverhill. In 1647 he removed to Newbury; and May 26 of that year he was authorized by the General Court "to keep an ordinary and also a ferry" for the trans- portation of passengers from Newbury to Salisbury, in con- nection with Mr. George Carr. While Tristram Cofifin was ferryman, passengers were usually taken from the Newbury side through the narrow passage between Carr's Island and Ram Island, and thence to the Salisbury shore. At this time he owned "forty acres of upland, more or less," which he sold in 1657, after his remo^•al to Salisbury, " being halfe the four score acres which I, the said Tristram Coffin, lately purchased of Mr. Edward Rawson, & the east side of the abovesaid foure score acres being bounded with the land of William Moody on the west, Merrimack river over against Mr. Carr's iland on the north, the way to the ferry on the east, and the way to Artichoke river on the South." From the descrip- tion given in this deed, recorded in the Ipswich Series, book I, page 645, it is evident that this land was opposite Carr's Island, and on the westerly side of what is now known as Jefferson Street ; but there is no mention of a house or build- ings of any kind in the conveyance. 170 OULD XEU'RL'RY In 1659, he went to Nantucket, and jnn-chased for himself and his associates many thousand acres of land. I'Larly in 1660, he removed with his famil)' to the island, where he lived until his death in 1681. His son Tristram Coffin, Jr.. was born in Brixton, Eng- land, in 1632. He came to New England with his father, and married, in Newbury, March 2, 1653, Judith Somerby, widow of Henry Somerb}'. and daughter of Edmund and Sarah Greenleaf. Some authorities claim that the rear part of the old Coffin house was built by Henry Somerb}' prexious to his death, and that it was the home of his widow at the time of her marriage to Tristram Coffin, Jr. It is cn'ident that the house, as first built, faced the south, as nearly all old houses do ; and tradition says the side door was once the front door. Tristram Coffin and Judith, his wife, had ten children ; and for the better accommodation of the family it became necessary to enlarge the house. When the addition was made, it was built across the easterly end ; and a new door was provided, opening to the street. Subsequently the house was occupied by two families, one using the side entrance e:tclusively, and the other using the front entrance. The rustic porch o\-er the front door, almost concealed by the thick growth of climbing vines, was added at a comparatively recent date ; but • otherwise the old house stands to-day substantially the same in outward appearance as it did when Tristram Coffin resided there. For more than half a century he occupied the house, and for twenty years was deacon of the first church in Newbury. April 29, 1668, he was made a freeman of the colony; and in 1695 he was elected representati\e to the (General Court, and again in the years 1700, 1701, and 1702. He tlied Feb. 4, 1704. His youngest son, Nathaniel, born March 26, 1669, was the ne.\t owner of the propert)'. He married Sarah, daugh- ter of Samuel Hrocklebank of l-iowley, widow of Henry Dole of Newbury, March 29, 1693. He was deacon of the church in Newbur\' ; and ( )ct. 9, 1711. he was elected town clerk, which office he continued to hold until his death. THE COFFiy HOUSE 171 He was representative to the General Court for the years 1 719, 1720, and 1 72 1, councillor of the province in 1730, and special justice of the Court of Common Pleas for Essex County in 1734. He had eig-ht children. Two of them, the Rev. Enoch Coffin and Samuel Brocklebank Coffin, graduated at Harvard College. He died Feb. 20, 1748-9, when nearly eighty years old. His son, Colonel Joseph Coffin, born Dec. 30, 1702, was the next occupant of the house. He married July 15, 1725, Margaret Morse, daughter of Benjamin Morse. He was elected town clerk in 1749, and served in that capacity until the day of his death. He had eight children. Two of them, the Rev. Paul Coffin, D.D., and Charles Coffin, M.D., gradu- ated at Harvard College. He died Sept. 12, 1773. During the latter part of his life his son Joshua, born Jan. 9, 1731, occupied one-half of the house. This son, afterward known as Major Joshua Coffin, married Sarah Bartlett Jan. 21, 1755. They had twelve children, one of whom, the Rev. P2benezer Coffin, graduated at Harvard College. A letter written Sept. 27, 1764, by Joshua Coffin, and addressed to his father. Colonel Joseph Coffin, gives a glimpse of the domestic life of that day, and indicates an estrangement between father and son. The letter reads as follows : — Honored S/r, 'Tis in your power to make my life (as to outward circumstances) either Happy or Miserable, & I am sure 'twould be with the Greatest Regrett I should do anything to Render your life uneasy. I don't ask you to give me house or land at present, although I d'ont think in that case I should be unreasonable (considering my family Increases so fast), but at present I only ask Leave to build a Bedroom chimney on my , own cost for our present comfort. Which, when you have properly weighed the affair & Considered what you have done for Bro. David & Paul, not to mention Boyd, for their convenience, & my present need of what I ask, I Cant suppose you will single me out from the rest of your Children as an object of your Displeasure. Since I don't know as either of them have done more to merit your favor, I now Intreat you, S'', in this Request to treat me only as a son, whose happiness so much Depends on your approbation & afection. I am, S'', with all Due Reverence & Duty. Your Dependent son, Joshua Coffin. 172 OULD NEWBCRY The writer of tlie letter quoted abo\'e died March 30, 1774. about six mouths after the death of his father. The liouse aud land then came into the possession of Joseph CofThn, born Sept. 3, 1762, and Edmund Coffin, born Jan. 14, 1764, sons of Major Joshua Coflin. The rear or older part was occuj^ied by Joseph Cof^n, who married Judith Toppan in October, 1791. He had seven children by his first wife, four of whom died in infancy. For his second wife he married Margaret Sutherland, in September, 1803. He and his brother Edmund were joint owners of a tan-yard on the place, and they were also engaged in commerce to some extent. He died Dec. 25, 1805 ; and by his will, dated May 9, 1805, he gave to his son Joshua "all my buildings, with undivided half of the tann yard and my land in the home- stead." His brother Edmund, who occupied the front part of the house, married Mary Moody, Nov. 15, 1792, by whom he had six children. For his second wife he married Lucy Kimball, April 25, 1809, by whom he had five children. After his death, Oct. 23, 1825, his part of the house remained for many years the residence of his widow and children. In the final settlement of his estate it was conveyed to his daughter, Miss Lucy Coffin. Joshua Coffin, who by the will of his father came into pos- session of one-half of the house in 1805, was born Oct. 12, 1792. He married for his first wife Clarissa Dutch Dec. 2, 1 81 7, by whom he had two children, Sarah Bartlett Coffin and Lucia Top})an Coffin. For his second wife he married Anna W. Chase April 26, 1835, by whom he had three children, now living, namely, I^lizabeth \V. (Coffin) Cheney, Amia L. Coffin, and Mary H. Coffin. He was a S: eighteen foote in length (Ipswich Deeds, book 4. page 309). Hugh March, having divested himself of all his real estate, with the exception of a small part specially reserved for his own use, was temporarily disqualified from serving as inn- keeper. At the court held at Ipswich "March 30, 1680, John March was licensed to keepe ordinary at Newbur}' for a )-ear, also licensed to draw wine & liquors for a }'eare." This license was renewed in March, 1681. In the records of the court held at Salem in June, 1680, is the following memo- randum : — Mrs White of Newbery have liscence granted to sell bv retaile wine & liquors, as formerly was granted to her late husband in his life time. Upon further consideration and Hugh March iS: his son John moveing the court that shee might have rather liscence to keepe a pul)licke house of entertainment or ordinarye. t^ to draw wine iS: liipior. which the court grants her liscence to doe, etc. Ever}' )ear for twenty years the license granted Mrs. Ann White was annually renewed. In 1682, John March, with the approval of the selectmen of iSevvbin"y, petitioned fnr license to keep ordinarN' tliere ; " hut the Comt learning that he has rcmoxx'il from the place wlu-re he first li\ed when his license was granted. & Hugh March comi)]aining that it will he a damage to him to grant the license, John is licensed to sell what stock he has on hand only." BLUE ANCHOR TAVERN i8i It is evident from this decision, and from subsequent pro- ceedings relating to the petition of John March, that he had, in consequence of some disagreement or misunderstanding with his father, removed from the old tavern, and desired to set up a rival establishment elsewhere. He was not disposed to accept this decision as final, and made strenuous efforts to reverse the decree. Many of the prominent citizens of Newbury favored his cause, and signed the following petition : * — To }•'■ honoured Court, hild at Ipswitch y'^' 2S'i\ March, 1682, wheras the Selectmen of y^' towne of Newbury have, as wee vnderstand. upon serious Consideration : of y'' Convenecy of the place y' John : march would sett upon keepinge of y*" ordinery and y'' sutteblenes of y^' person : for yf end hath given vnder thayer hands thayer approbation of y'^' thinge acordinge to Law; yett vnderstandinge y' there is some obstruction: ye thinge beinge not yett granted as wee vnderstand, wee whose Names are vnderwrighten doe humbly request y' your honours would bee plesed to grant y"^' said John : march a license for his keepinge of y"' ordinary, Considiringe not only the Conveincy but the nesesity of y'" towne of Newbury || and Naighboring towne || is in, of havinge an ordi- nery in y*" place y* John march is now in, in regard : of shipinge & other ocasione of much busnis neare y' place, so shall wee bee obliged to pray for your prospirity & remaine yours humbell Sarvants. March 31^' 1682. Richard Dole Samvell Plumer Silvan us Plumer Ephraim Plumer RicHD Dole Jur Joseph Plumer John Knight Thomas Hale georg litple John Atkinson Anthony Sumerby Stephen Grenlefe Sen Daniel Lunt Harry Lunt WiLLM NOVES Joshua Moss Thomas Noyes James Smith Benjamin Rolfe John Badger John Rally Caleb Moody Tno Dole Stephen Grenlee iuner Joseph Mayo Jonathan woodman Peter god ffree Edmond Marshall Benja : LOWLE John davice Edward richison senior Joshua Richardson : Wm: Chandler AouiLA Chase. In answer to this petition the court at the September term granted to John March a license " to keep an ordinary and draw wine and liquors," although Hugh March appears to have remonstrated with considerable force and vigor, as will be seen by the following paper, duly signed, now on file in the court house at Salem (book 38, leaf 79) : — * Court Files, book jS, leaf 7S. i82 OULD NEWBURY To the lionderd County Court sitting at Ipswich this 26 of Septooml:)er 1682 The ])etition of Hugh March of Newbury humbly showeth, That, whereas the lowne of Newbury being destitute of an ordinary for neer two yeres, being fined twise, and hkely to be fined the 3"' time, and could find no man that would undcrtack it, diyers of the most considerable men of the towne applyed themselyes to mee to keepe the ordinary, at which time i had no need of it or inclination to it. being well satKd upon a farme of my owne which was suffitiant to maintaine me; but by the ofton porsuasions and solicitations of those men I was wiling, proyided I might have the free consent of the towne and the aprobation of the Court, which 1 had freely and fully in a publick towne meting, by way of yoate and by this courts free exceptacion, which moved mee to pur- chase at a deare rate that place which was the antient place of an ordi- nary, wch being out of repaire caused me to disburse great sums of mooney in repairing the ould and building new to fit it for the townes and cuntrys benifit. which caused me to sell one good farme and wholy to leaye my farm that I liyed uppone. The ordinary that I bought, tho old and out of repayer. cost me 120"' besids to the valeu of more than 400"' I layd out in building barn, stable, and housing, with bedding. &c.. to fite myselfe for giving piublick con- veniant entertainment for the country and towne. This ordinary was by me kept about 12 yeres, and no man had just reason to complaine for want of anything that was conveniant. nor did yt ever I heard. Besides the law saith, page 82, that no man shall lose his licance before he be convicted of some broache of law. Avhich i never was : Altho I put the ordinary out of my hands for a time, yet it was for my lively hood and that I might live by it as an ordinary. It hath bene the uisiall custom of courts and townes to put antiant persons into such places and calings to bee a help to them, rather than to turne them out after all thayr cost to y'' undoing and that because the present selectmen do not give y"^ approbation under thayre hands. I had not only the aprobation of the selectmen, but of the towne also, and of this hondred court for 12 yeares together, and tharfor hope vt this hondred court will consider my case, and not to suffer any man to be undon by the by and selfe ends of any selectmen ; for. if so. the country will scarsly ever be well provided for with an ordinary to ct)n- tenl. wch will be a disgrace to the country in other places in the wiuukl, for who will lay out such an estate to keepe an ordinary to be at the mercy of the next new selectman whether he sliall hould it above one yeare or no ? This hondred court hauing in some measure understood how i com- mitted my estate to my sone, and the wav that he haue had to deprife BLUE ANCHOR TAl'ERN 183 mee of my licanse and likewise of my estate, wch i am depely soncalale of my afflicttion, being further agrivated by his execution granted from the hondred court of asistence, wch I presume your honors are not un- sonsable of : he hauing little mercy on his father, I hope you, the fathers of the land, will haufe more mercy upon mee. In granting yr poore petioner his licence for the ordinary as formerly, wch (under correctionj I conceive is but a rationall request, either to my self or som other person yt may be put in, so that i may haue the bonifit of that my estate in that way as formerly, and in so doing you shall oblidg your humble petioner, to pray. Hugh March. Mrs. Robert C. Cheney, of Ring's Island, Salisbury, Mass., a descendant of Judith March, only daughter of Hugh March, Sr., has in her possession a copy of the above petition, evi- dently in the handwriting of Hugh March, with deeds and other papers relating to the settlement of the estate of Colonel John March. It is evident from the preceding statement addressed to the court sitting at Ipswich, by Hugh March, that he was anxious to resume his occupation as innkeeper ; and it also appears that " the hondred court " was not inclined to grant his request. In this emergency Hugh March applied to the General Court, assembled in Boston, for aid and assistance in procuring the desired license. In the court files at Salem is the following interesting order relating to this subject : — Att A Generall Court at Boston, 11"^ October, 1682. An Answe"" to the peticon of Hugh March. The Court being Credi- bly Informed that the petitioner hath been & is like to be a great Sufferer by being disappointed of keeping a house of publick entertainement, he having been encouraged thereto by the Towne of Newbery tS: others conseyned, and therefore layd out a Considerable estate to titt & fur- nish himself for that Imploy, and doe therefore comend it to the Se- lectmen of that Towne and the court of that County to consider of his condition and toe seis him therein, and that he may againe be intrusted in his former imploymt in due time. That this is A true copie taken out of the Court Records. Ed wo Rawsox, Secret. The court at Salem the 28: 9: 82 prsing the above order, & alsoe the returne from the Selectmen of newberj-, doe not se cause to grant the sd Hugh marches desire in granting him liscence. Attest HiLLiARD Veren, Clr. 184 OULD XEIVBURY At the April term of the court held at Ipswich in 1683 " Hugh March was licensed to keepe a house of publick entertainment in Newbury for a yeare." His wife, Dorcas (Blackleach) March, died Nov. 22, 1683 ; and he was again at liberty to hold property in his own name without fear of molestation. His license as innkeeper was renewed annually during the remainder of his life. Dec. 5, 1693, he conveyed by deed to his son John March, of Salisbury, " houses, lands, meadows, fencing, goods, chat- tels, leases, debts, bills, bonds, plate, jewels, and rings ; household stuff, apparrell, utensils, brass, pewter, and iron ; bedding and all other my substance whatsoever " ; the said John March to j^ay to Sarah March, wnfe of Hugh March, a certain sum annually, "and allow her the use of my old parlor and the chamber over it within my house in Newbury, and commonly called by that name, and the use of the well for necessary uses during her widowhood, . . . with liberty of making use of the middle room for household occasions." By the terms of this deed John March is also required to pay over to the children and grandchildren of Hugh March cer- tain specified sums of money (Esse.x Registry of Deeds, book 10, page 52). Captain John March, at the date of the above conveyance, was living in Salisbury, where he owned a large farm. He subsequently purchased several tracts of land in Newbury, and among them a farm of nearly one hundred and fifty acres at Birchen Meadow, so called. The boundaries of his estate in the immediate vicinity of the old tavern are somewhat vague and uncertain. It is probable, however, that the westerl}' limit extended to, and perhajjs included, the high land that is known as March's hill. Oct. 25, 1687, during the administration of .Sir lulmund Andros, Captain John March was granted the right to main- tain a ferrv o\er the Men"imack l\i\er "from warehouse point, so called, in the town of Xewburx", to King's Island in the town of SalisbuiN." l*"or the details of the prolonged con- tro\ers)- to which this grant ga\e rise the reader is referred to the sketch, on ])ages 53 to 80, inclusi\e. entitletl "The BL UE A A 'CHOK TA I '£ A' A ' '5 Ferry at Carr's Island." Some arrangement was evidently made with Captain Edward Sargent, who was a licensed inn- keeper, to take charge of the newly established ferry. As agent or lessee, it was under his care and control for many years. July 15, 1690, John March was appointed captain, and ordered to enlist a company for the Canada expedition. In 1697, with the rank of Major, he had command of the forces eng:as:ed in the attack on the Indians at Damaris cove, on the coast of Maine. In 1703, he petitioned the General Court to grant him compensation for losses sustained in the defence of Casco fort ; and November 20, of the same year, " the General Court granted to Captain John March fifty pounds in consideration of the brave defence of his majesty's fort at Casco Bay, when lately attacked by the French and Indian enemy, and of the wounds he then received." A few years previously, April 1 7, 1 700, Captain John March had given a mortgage deed to John W'ainwright, of Ipswich, of the following described property, namely, " four acres of land, bounded easterly by the street, northerly by the land of George March, westerly and southerly by land of James Coffin, with house and outhouses conveyed to me by my father, Hugh March, senior, Dec. 5, 1693 " (Essex Deeds, book 14, page 16). This mortgage was discharged May 9, 1704 (book 16, page 16). During this year or the year following he removed to Falmouth, now Portland, Me. He was evidently engaged in military service, and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant- colonel. July 23, 1705, he sold to the town of Newbury the ferry over the Merrimack River, granted to him during the administration of Sir Edmund Andros, described as follows (Essex Deeds, book 19, page 48) : — Lt. Col. John March of Newbury, now resident in Falmouth, York County, gent™ for ^240, conveys to Lt.-Col" Thomas Noyes, Esq., Maj'' Dan" Davison, Lt. Joseph Little, M"^ William Titcomb, all of Newbury, a committee for the town of Newbury, all the interest and right, &c., which I now have or mav have " in or to the ferry comonlv called l86 OULD XEWBURY Marches ferry, over Merrimack River, near the ph\ce where Cap' Ed- ward Serjeant now Dwell-s in Xewbury afores'', which ferry was first granted by Sir Edmond Andross & Councill unto y Said March at a councill held at y'' Councill Chamber in Boston on Tuesday y' Twenty fifth day of octob' 16.S7. as by said act of Councill may appear. »!\: con- firmed & setled vpon .Said March bv v*' Justices of y' County of Essex afore.s'' \-'' 14"' of Novemb'. 1687, & again Confirmed unto him at a Gen- erall Sessions of s" Peace holden at Ipswich for the County of Essex, march 2.S"i i 704. & was Late in y Tenure & occupation of Cap' Edw' Serjeant afores''."" except the gratuitous right of ferriage of the grantor and his perticular family & Horses & Cattle over .s'' ferry for 22 years. After his return to Xewbury Colonel March was busy and acti\'e in public affairs. His will, dated April 18, 1707, and proved Aug. 25, 171 2, gives to his eldest son, John, two and one-half shares, to son Hugh one and three-quarters shares, daughter Abigail one share, and daughter Elizabeth one share of all his real and personal estate. In the in- ventor}' of his estate, "his Great Dwelling House, orchard, outhousing, with abt 35 acres adjacent the homestead," are valued at ^350; and "the dwelling house y' Ca}it. Henry L)'on li\"es in, outhousing, with abt 3 acres adjacent of y homestead," are valued at ^^200. Captain Henry Lyon was licensed as an innholder for the years 1712 and 1713, and evidently had charge of the old tavern when the will of Colonel John March was proved. From the records of the Court of (ieneral Sessions, held at Salem March 16, 171 3-4, it appears that, Capt. Henry Lyon having left Xewbury >S; y house being y .\nchor Tavern, which he had a lycense for. & y justices X: selectmen of Xew- bury setting forth to this court that it is needfull that another person be permitted to keep y'' s'' house as an innholder. lK: having given their ap- probation that M" John Clarke might be Lycensed to keep y s'' house. This Court doe Lycense y s'' John Clarke to be an Inn holder in said house till June Court next, he making good .s'' Capt. Lyons excise to y province. John Clarke probabh' continued to serve as innholder imtil 171 5. Some time chu"ing that year the property passed into the hands of Jolui Wainwright, but the (\\iyi(\ transferring the title does not appeal' to have been recordeil. BLUE AXCHOR TAVERN 187 At all events, John Wainwright, late of Ipswich, now of Boston, merchant, sold to Samuel Sawyer, of Newbur}-, inn- holder, Dec. 21, 1 7 1 5, for £. 1 60, Two and three quarter acres of land, commonly known as the Blue Anchor Tavern, with the Mansion house, barn and stables, bounded south easterly partly by land now belonging to John Woodbridge and John March and partly by land belonging to James Coffin, and westerly and northwesterly by y^' land of y^' heirs of Insigne Henry Lunt. late of Newbury, deceased, northerly by y land of Benjamin .Morse, tercius. and north easterly by y street or country road (book 28. page 78). Samuel Sawyer was a licensed innholder from 1693 to 1 716, and very likely rented and occupied the " Blue Anchor Tavern " while Colonel John March was actively engaged in the service of the colony on the eastern frontier.* March 3, 171 5-6, Samuel Sawyer sold to his son Benjamin "one mansion or dwelling house with 2f acres of land in Newbury, known by the name of The Blew Anchor Tavern," bounded and described substantially as in the deed above quoted (book 28, page 164). Oct. 2, 1 718, Benjamin Sawyer, of Newbury, weaver, for ^155, conveyed to John March, of Salisbury, "house and 25 acres of land in Newbury afores"^, cofnonly known by y^ name of y Blew Anchor Tavern, together with all y^' houses, outhouses, Barns, Buildings, stables, orchards. Gardens, &c.,"' bounded and described substantially as in the deed from John Wainwright to Samuel Sawyer (book ^6, page 71). The above-named "John March of Salisbury" was the * In an old play, entered at Stationers' Hall, London, by William Apsley, Sept. 4, 1605, in which Shakspere is said to have acted, one of the characters in the first scene of the third act says : — " Welcome, good Captaine Seagul and worthy gentlemen. If you will meet my friend here and niee, at the Blewe Anchor Tavenie, by Billingsgate, this e\ening, wee will there drinke to our happy voyage, be merry, and take boate to our ship with all expedition." The second scetie opens " In the Blewe Anchor Tavenie," where "Seagull, Spendall, and Scapethrift " meet, and over their cups tell wonderful stories of adventure and conquest in lands beyond the sea. -As early as 16S5 Boston had a house of entertanimeut, kept by George Monk, called the Blue Anchor Taveni. It stood on Washington Street, near the spot now occupied by Little, Brown & Co.'s bookstore. Dunton, in his letters from New England (Prince Society's Collection, page S6), says, " There was no one House in all the Town more notad or where a Man might meet with better accommodation " ; and Judge Sewall states, in his diary, that the Governor and Council dined there, on se\eral memorable occasions. i88 OULD NEWBURY eldest son of Colonel John March, deceased. He was licensed as an innholder of Xewbur)' for several years ; but Feb. I, 1 720-1, he conveyed to I^enjamin Morse, by two separate deeds, one acre, and one and a half acres of land ad- jacent to the old tavern, and September 26, of the same year, he sold to Joseph March the remainder of the land with the house thereon (book 38, page 128; book 39, page 13; and book 39, page 140). June 6, 1722, Joseph March, of Salisbur)-, sold to Samuel Seddon, of Salisbury (the latter cordwainer, alias innholder), a dwelling-house and one-quarter acre of land " in the posses- sit)n of John March, Jr., and bought of the said John March, Jr." (book 40, page 212). Dec. 30, 1726, Samuel Seddon, then of Ham})ton. X. H., gave a quitclaim deed of the above-described property to Joseph March (book 65, page 29). Feb. II, 1726-7, Joseph March sold to Philip Fowler one-quarter of an acre of land, with dwelling-house thereon, " bounded easterly by the highwa)', on the south jxartl}' by land of Isaac Noyes, deceased, and partly by land of James Coffin, on the West and north by land of Benjamin Morse " (book 90, page 5). Philip Prowler remained in possession of the old ta\ern, with one-quarter of an acre of land under and adj inning the same, until Oct. 3, 1755. when he sold it to the Rev. Jona- than Parsons, then pastor of the i-'irst Presbyterian Church in Newburyport, who had previously bought of John Adams, son-in-law of ]-}enjamin Morse, four acres of land, with dwell- ing-house thereon, in that immediate \-icinit)' (book 103. page 46, and book 88, i)age lOO). Soon after the conveyance of this propert}- to the Re\-. Mr. Parsons the tavern was taken down, and a p;)rlion of the land under the same was exchanged, for adjoining land, with Daniel Clark who then owned the next house on the southerl)' side, now known as the Ilsley house (book 104, pages 10 and 11). ILSLEY HOUSE. In 1670, Stephen Swett, having served as innholdei" in the town of Newbury for ten or fifteen years, sold his estate on the westerly side of High Street, near the head of Marlbor- ough Street, reserving a certain parcel of land bounded and described as follows : " In length 85 rods ranging by the fence of Tristram Coffin and Anthony Morse on the south side, and the land in sale on the north side being nine rods ; and three rod and six foot in breadth at the east end next the 'Street, and one rod in breadth at the west end " (Ipswich Deeds, book 3, page 215). On this lot of land reserved by Stej^hen Swett for his own use the old house, now known as the Ilsley House, was built. It was probably occupied by Stephen Swett until Nov. 16, i6gi. At that date he sold to Hugh March, Jr., a lot of land, bounded easterly by the highway, northerly by the land of Hugh March, Sr., and scnith westerly by land of Lieutenant Tristram Cofifin, also an adjoining lot, bounded by the land of Tristram Coffin southerly, the street easterly, and the land above mentioned on the northwest, " together with ye dwell- ing-house and shopp standing upon ye same " (Essex Deeds, book 10, page 17). Jan. 9, 1693-4, Hugh March sold to Captain John March " the house which I bought of Steven Swett, deceased, and about fifteen rods of land, bounded northerly and westerly by land in possession of Capt. John March, formerly Mr. Hugh March's, deceased, southerly by land in possession of James Coffin, easterly by the main street or highway " (book 18, page 48). March 31, 171 3, Jemima March of Newbury, administratrix of Colonel John March, late of Newbury, deceased, and John March of Salisbur}-, Hugh March of Newbur}', Abigail March, ILSLEY HOUSE 19 I and Elizabeth March of Newbury, " children and heirs of the s'' Col. John March, with advice of Major Henry Somerby, guardian of s'' Abigail & Elizabeth," sold and conveyed to Captain Henry Eyon, of Newbury, eighteen rods of land with the house thereon, bounded and described as follows : — One mansion or dwelling house, together with about 18 rods of land thereunto adjoining, being in Newbury and bounded 50 foot front from James Coffin's fence, near his dwelling house in Newbury, butting upon ye street or country road running ye said 50 feet northwesterly, thence running westerly, so as to take in one half of ye well anglewise and one foot more, in ye whole 144 feet, and from said well southeasterly 16 foot to ye said James Coffin's fence, and so running by said fence till it comes to ye street or country road easterly. March 31, 171 3, Captain Henry Eyon, of Newbury, sold to John Woodbridge and John March, both of Newbury, " the house and land in Newbury which he this day bought of Mrs. Jemima March, administratrix of the estate of Col. John March, late of Newbury, deceased, and John March, Hugh March, Abigail March, and P^lizabeth March " (book 26, page 238). May 17, 171 5, Eieutenant John March, of Newbury, sadler, and John W^oodbridge, of Newbury, joiner, sold to Isaac Noyes, of Newbury, joiner, for ^50, " house and land in Newbury bounded by James Coffin southerly, by ye land of ye old tavern, so called, northwesterly, running so as to take one half of ye well and running from ye well sixteen feet to s'' Coffin's fence and by ye country road easterly being 55 feet in breadth, &c." (book 38, page 18). Isaac Noyes died when his son Enoch Noyes, born in I 71 7, was only six months old. His widow, Jane (Somerby), married Daniel Pearson for her second husband. Eeb. 26, 1738-9, Enoch Noyes, then about twenty-one- years of age, with his mother, Jane Pearson, gave to Moses Noyes, of New- bury, joiner, for ^120, a deed of this house and land, bounded and described as follows : " easterly on the King's highway 55 feet, southerly on land formerly of James Coffin 150 feet, westerly on land of Benjamin Morse 16 feet, and northerly 192 OULD XFAVBURY on land partly of said Alorsc and jiartly on lantl of John March 137 feet" (book 95, page 192). Sept. 29, 1752, Moses Noyes, Jr., of Xc\vbur_\'. sold to Daniel Clark, of Xewbui'}', cordwainer, house, barn, and land bounded and described as follows: "easterly on the road 55 feet, southerly on land of Kliphalet Jaques 1 50 feet, westerly on land of Re\". Jonathan Parsons 16 feet, and northerly parti}' upon the land of the said Mr. Parsons and partly on the land now in the possession of John March, junior, it being the same land I bo't of Enoch Noyes P>b. 26, 1738-9 " (book 98, page 82). (^ct. I, 1765, Daniel Clark sold to Nathan Pierce, of New- bury, shopkeeper, for ^143 (Ss. S(/., about twenty-nine and one-half rods of land, with house thereon, bounded as follows : " easterly on the road 62 rods, southerl)- on land of l^liphalet Jaques 5 rods, 2^ feet, westerly on land partly of the said Jaques and partly of Rev. Jonathan Parsons 5^^ rods, and northerly on land of said Parsons and by the town house lot 4 rods" (book 116, page 256). June 2, 1772, Nathan Pierce, of Newbury, )eoman, sold to Benjamin Colman, of Newbury, }-eoman, for ^,"200. house, barn, land, etc., " bounded easterly by the countr\- road, northerly partly b)' the land belonging to the P'irst Parish in Newbury, where the Town House now stands, and partly by the Rev. Jonathan Parsons land, &c." (book 131, j^age 46). Aug. 19, 1773, Benjamin Colman, yeoman, sold to Dudley Colman. of Newbury, gentleman, for ^£226 i^s. 4^/.. the property above described (book 138, i^age 126). April 29, 1780, Dudle)- Colman, Esc|.. of Ne\vbur\i)ort, sold to Nicholas 'Pitcomb, of Newburyport, }-eoman, the same ])remises, " together with the mills and tools for carrying on the chocolate, tallow chandler)', and tobaconist business" (book 140, page 143). March 4, 1783, Nicholas Titcomb, of Xewbuiw innholder, soltl to Oliver Putnam, of Xewburxpoi't. blacksmith, land in Xewbury " bounded easterl)- b}- the main countiy road si.\ r(xls and one half, southerly b)- P^lij^halet Jac|ues' land fixe rods two feet and one half, westerl)' partly b\- said Jaques' FLSLEY HOUSE 193 land and j^artly by land belonging to the heirs of the Rev. Jonathan Parsons, deceased, five rods and one half, northerly partly by the heirs of the aforesaid Parsons and partly by land belonging to the heirs of Benjamin Morse, formerly of Newbury, deceased, four rods, with all the buildings thereon " (book 140, page 143). In some of the deeds recorded about this tmie Oliver Put- nam is described as a blacksmith, and in other deeds " scythe- maker." As early as 1778 Edward Harris, of Londonderry, N. H., cabinet-maker, sold to Oliver Putnam and William Parker, "said Putnam being scythemaker and Parker cabi- net maker," for ^500, about fourteen rods of land on King Street, Newburyport (now Federal Street) (book 139, page 220). On this land Oliver Putnam and William Parker probably built a dwelling-house for their own use. At all events, on the 28th of February, 1783, Oliver Putnam sold a portion of this land, with part of a house and barn on King Street, to Nicholas Titcomb (book 140, page 143), and a few days later received a deed of the estate at the head of Marl- borough Street, as above stated. Oliver Putnam was born in Danvers, Feb. 13, 1755. He was a descendant of John Putnam, one of the early settlers of New England. His intended marriage to Sarah, daughter of Eleazer and Sarah (Perkins) Lake, was published in Tops- field, Mass., Nov. 12, 1775. He probably came to Newbury- port about this time. His name appears in the list of enrolled men under the command of Captain Moses Nowell, stationed at Newburyport from November, 1775, to January, 1776. His children were as follows : — Oliver, born Nov. 17, 1777: died July 11. 1S26. Sarah, born Aug. g, 1779. Elizabeth, born March 6, 1785; married Dr. Hackett. Thorndike, born in 1787: died May 21. 1858. Thomas, born Jan. 17, 1789. Sarah, born Nov. 12, 1790. Charles, born Jan. 28, 1793 ; died Oct. 25, 1834. Lucy, born July 16, 1795 ; died July 6, 1839. Joshua, born July 23, 1798 ; died at sea. 194 OULD KiaVBURV I-'rom the ab(i\c record it a])i)cars that ( )H\cr Putnam, Jr., was six years of aMorse. liis heirs F/KST TOU'X A. YD CO CRT HOUSE LV XEIVBURY 199 and assigns forever, in as full and ample manner as it was before this deed was given (book 69, page 3j. Feb. 18, 1734-5, the First Parish of Newbury conveyed the above-described premises, " with a building for town or court house upon the same," to the county of Essex (book 69, page 3). At the Court of General Sessions held July 9, 1734, the following order was entered upon its records : — Whereas the town of Newbury, May 11, 1733, voted that the first parish in Newbury shall have liberty to build a convenient town house, &c., and the said first parish Dec. 4, 1733, voted that said house shall be for y<^ use of y"' County of Essex. &c., and whereas sundry of the inhabitants of several of the parishes in the town have petitioned the court to encourage y'^' building of s"d house, the court, finding many inconveniences in holding the court in the public meeting house, ordered that when the sd house is completely built and finished, and a deed of the house and land is executed to the treasurer of the countv for the use of the county to hold court in, two hundred pounds shall be paid to said parish out of the County treasury; provided that the repairs of sd house shall be made ^ by the county and f by Newburv, the sd parish and town retaining the right to hold their public meetings for public business as occasion may require if the court is not incommoded thereby. The building erected on this lot of land was used for a town-house, court-house, and school-house for nearly fifty years. It was sold at public auction March 5, 1780, to John Mycall, Esq. Feb. 27, 1745-6, John Adams, son-in-law of Benjamin Morse, sold to the Rev. Jonathan Parsons the homestead and buildings willed to him by his father-in-law, Benjamin Morse (book 88, page 100). Rev. Jonathan Parsons died July 19, 1776. His will was proved Nov. 26, i yjd. To his daughters, Phebe Parsons, Lucia Parsons, wife of Joseph Toppan, and Lydia Parsons, he gave " his house and four acres of land in Newbury." When the town-house was sold in 1780, the land under the same reverted to the above-named daughters of the Rev. Jonathan Parsons. 2 00 OULD NEWBURY The estate was subsequentl}' dixided ; and Moses Greenleaf, wlio niarrieil L}clia 1 'arsons, sold to Jonathan Greenleaf, Nov. 15, 1796. about fort\' rods of land, bounded southeasterly on land of Olix'er Putnam, northeasterl)' on the street, north- westerly and southwesterh' on land of the L;'rantor (book 162, page 55). Dec. 20, 1796, Jonathan Greenleaf sold to the Re\'. Abra- liam Moor, pastor of the First Parish in Newbury, about thirty-seven and one-half rods of land, " beginning on the highway by land of Oliver Putnam, and bounded southerly by Oliver Putnam, easterl)' by the street, &c." (book 162, page 249). The Rev. Abraham Moor died June 24, 1801. His widow, as executrix of his will, sold the above-described property to Amos Knight May 19, 1802. At that date the land formerly owned by Oliver Putnam on the south was in the possession of Isaiah Ilsley (book 172, page 169). April 17, 1857, Elizabeth Perkins and others, heirs of the late Amos Knight, gave a deed to Abigail S. Smith, wife of P^dmund Smith, P2sq., "of the house and land conveyed by the Rev. Abraham Moore to Amos Knight by deed dated Ma}' 19, 1802, recorded in book 172, page 169, and given by said Amos Knight's will to us" (book 551, page 60). The daughters of Pxlmund and Abigail S. Smith still own and occupy the dwelling-house that stands where the hrst town-house stood, on High Street, near the head of Marl- borough Street, in Newbur\-. THORLAY'S BRIDGE OVER PARKER RIVER. On pages 380 and 381 in the third vokime of the "Narra- tive and Critical History of America," edited by Justin W'insor, Librarian of Harvard University, there is a photo- graphic copy of a map of the New England coast from Cohasset, on the southeasterly side of Boston, to the mouth of the Merrimack River. The original map, from which it was taken, was discovered in 1884 among the Sloane manuscripts in the British Museum by Mr. Henry F. Waters, of Salem, Mass. It was made as early, probably, as 1634 ; and the notes in the margin giving the location of Governor's Island and other prominent places are, undoubtedly, in the handwriting of Governor Winthrop. (3nly a few of the rivers and towns are designated by name ; but the Merrimack is distinctly marked as navigable to a point now known as Mitchell's Falls, and is also quite accurately described in these words : " It runns 100 miles up into the Country, and falles out of a ponde 10 miles broad." A long, narrow island at the mouth of the river can easily be identified as Plum Island, but has no name on the map. The village of Aga- wam (Ipswich) is C(Minected by dotted lines with Sagus (Saugus), Salem, and Meadford (Medford), showing that at this early date the line of travel between these places was substantially the same as now. The old road from Newbury to Boston still follows, very nearly, the narrow path that was once, probably, only an Indian trail through the forest. It is interesting to note the long, circuitous route taken to avoid crossing broad rivers ; for bridge building was difficult and expensive in those early days. Where the depth of water rendered streams impassable, ferries were established ; but shallow brooks and rivers were THORLAY'S BRIDGE OVER PARKER RIVER 203 crossed at convenient fording-places. For the first fifty years after the settlement of New England only a few bridges were constructed. In October, 163 1, Governor Win- throp, accompanied by several official dignitaries, left Boston, and travelled " on foot to Saugus, and the next day to Salem, where they were bountifully entertained by Captain Endi- cott " ; and, the day after, "they returned to Boston by the ford at Saugus River, and, so over at Mistick." At that date there was no bridge over the Saugus River ; and travellers on the way to Boston were compelled to pass through the woods in the northern part of the town, and ford the stream by the iron works, which were near the site afterward selected for the woollen factories at Saugus Centre. Mr. Davidson, as agent for Matthew Craddock, the first governor of the colony of Massachusetts Bay, commenced, in 1638, to build a bridge across the Mystic River at Medford. This bridge was finished a year or two later by order of the General Court at the expense of the county. It was the first toll-bridge in New England, and was constructed of sufficient width to allow the passage of ox-teams and carts. In order to shorten the distance and facilitate travel be- tween Boston and Salem, the inhabitants of Saugus were induced to build a bridge over Saugus River, the General Court having voted, in 1639, to allow the town the sum of fifty pounds for that purpose, and fift}' shillings annually toward the cost of keeping the bridge in repair. The work was completed with some difficulty, although the distance from shore to shore is not over thirty feet at the point where the bridge is located. It was evidently built and maintained at the public expense, for, in March, 1648, Edmund Ingalls, the first white inhabitant of Eynn, was drowned " because of insufficiency of the bridge," and his brothers and sisters peti- tioned the General Court for indemnity to the extent of /, 100, and their petition was granted. March 23, of the same year, the court allowed the town twenty pounds toward repairing the "great bridge" over Saugus River. The gradual increase of travel and the extension of this old road from Salem to Newbury led to the construction of 204 OULD XEWBCRY Thorlay's bridi;-e over the river Parker. This bridge was built previous to 1654, and was the first one erected over navigable waters within the limits of old Xewbury, and comes third on the list of bridges that have been in continuous use in New l-'.ngland for two centuries and a half. May 3, 1654, the General Court voted that " Richard Thorlay, havinge built a bridge, at his owne cost, ouer Xew- bury Riuer, hath liberty to take 2'' for euery horse, cow, oxe, or any other great cattle, as also one half peny a peece for euery hogg, sheep, or goat that shall pass ouer the sd bridge, as long as he shall well & sufticyently repayre & mayntayne the same, p\-ided that passengers shalbe free." In 1655, the subject of bridge-building was considered by the General Court, and provision was made for the apportion- ment of the cost of construction upon the several towns in each count)' where such bridges were located ; and, two }'ears later, it was provided that " hereafter t)nly a few bridges be built at the expense of the counties, but the expense and cost be met by the several towns wherein they are erected." In the records of the count)' court held at Ipswich ]\Iay 3, 1670, is the following order : — The court being informed that the Bridge and way in Newbury bound.s from the bridge toward the meeting house & from the Bridge toward Rowley being in manv places very bad & dangerous. The court orders Capt. Wm : (ierrish & Daniell Pea[r]ce sen'' be impowered to see the sayd way (being a county highway) suficiently repaired. And are heerby impowred to call forth the Inhabitants of the sayd Towne of Newbury for to doe & finish the worke suficiently for repaireing & mending the same efectuallv, and. if any shall refuse to do there acord- ing to there order, to returne there names to any one maiestrate. who shall iL>ho shall have power to send for them iS: bynde them over to Answere it at the court. And for tiie niL'iuling the Ihidge to give an account of the charge to be defrayed by tlie county. Evidentl)', these repairs weie not attended to, for the court issued the following order, under date oi April iS. 1671 : — Wheras the bridge neare Thurlaves is in danger to be carrved awav if not care taken to secure it. Tliis court Impowers iS; orders THORLAVS BRIDGE OVER PARKER RIVER 205 Daniell Pearce sen'- and John Pearson to see it made suficient. and the constable and selectmen of Newbury are recjuired to be assistant thereto, and power given to impresse such helpe as is nessesarj- for efecting of it. and that be done by midsomer and a returne made that it is finished att -Salem court next. Notwithstanding this second order requiring the work " to be done by midsomer," it became necessary, March 26, 1672, to issue a third order, as follows : — Whereas the Bridge neare Thurlayes is in danger. This court orders and Impowers John Pearson of Rowly to see it made suficient, and the constables of Newbury & Rowley are required to be assistant to him therin. and power given them to impresse such helpe as is nessesary for the efecting the same in there respective Towne, & that it be finished by midsomer, and such as shall neglect there duty heerin shall be lyable to be fined acording to the merrit of there defect. In compliance with this last order of the court, some tem- porary repairs were agreed upon, and the bridge was made passable for a few years. When it became necessary to pro- vide something more substantial and durable, a petition was presented to the court asking liberty to build a new bridge and collect toll from all persons using it. On the " 26"' day of the 9"' month 1678," the court issued the following order : — In answer to y*^ petition of y" select men of the Towne of Newberye, there is liberty granted to the selectmen of y*^ Towne to build a sufficient firme & safe Bridge. & agree with any pson of sulificiencye to doe the work at as low a price as they can. & at the Towne charge to sattisfy for it ; & the court doth alow that everye one that shall come over the bridge shall paye one penny for a single pson. & three pence for a horse & man in money, which they alow them to take till the court shall see cause to take the said Bridge into the care of y*^ county, which if they shall doe, they doe ingage to the sd Towne of nevvbery y* they shalbe alowed out of this county Tresurye the value of y"^ said Bridge accord- ing as it shalbe Judged by able men what it is worth at the time it shal- be taken into the countyes care. Dec. 4, 1678, the town of Newbury voted that "Thorlay's bridge should be built at the town's charge, as the court gave 2o6 OULD XEWBUKY them liberty " ; but the selectmen ap])arently delayed action until some decision could be reached in re^i;-ard to the lenL;'th of time that the bridg'e should remain at their disposal. At a session of the court held at Salem " on the 24"' day of the 4"' month 1679," In answer to a petition, vnder the -Selectmens hands, of the Towne of Newbery: It is ordered by the court, that it be referred to Cap': Daniell Pearce. l^" Hen : Jaquis of newbery. if thev can on good terms agree with any psons. that will build a bridg over the River, they shall have the proftitt : of it for ten years, according to former Allowance, pro- vided thev fully compleate the agreement within one weeke after the end of the court. And. in case none be agreed with. That they take care the bridge be demolished. This order evidently accomplished the desired result. Cap- tain Daniel Peirce and Henry Jaquis agreed with Thomas Thorlay, July 6, 1679, to build a new bridge over the ri\er Parker. This agreement is recorded in the Essex Registry of Deeds at Salem (Ipswich Series, book 4, page 322), and reads as follows : — This presnt wittnesseth that wheras the countv court at Salem, in June last, reffered it to Cap' Daniell Peirce & Henry Jaquis of New- bury, and delegated them to agree with any pson or psons for the build of a new bridge over the River by Tho : Thurleyes house. The savd Daniell I'eirce & Henry Jaquis have agreed and concluded with Thomas Thurley of Newbury for the building a compleat and substantial! Bridge over the sd River, w"h the sayd Thomas thurley bindeth him- selfe by these presents to do, and fully to finish and compleat bv the county court, to be held at Ipswich the last Teousdav of march next. And the sayd Thomas thurlev Doth herby engage himselfe imediatlv to take care for the present making of the bridge now standing, safly pa.s- sable for Horse & man, and bindeth himselfe in the sum of fifty pounds & George march of Newbury in fifty pounds more, their heires. exec- utors, lV administrators, to secure the sayd Towne of Newburv iS; the county from time to time during the space of ten yeares from the penality of the law for the want or defect of the sd Bridge. In consid- deration of w'^^h premisses the sd Daniell Peirce and Henry Jacjuis doe agree, with the savd || Tho: || Tiiurlev. that he shall aske. demand. t!v receive uf e\er\- liorsman that shall pass ouer the sd Bridge, for himselfe and his horse tliree i)ence. and e\er\' pson wli jKisses over on foote one jjcnny for every time of such jjassage. W'li ]xivment was fornierlv THORLAY'S BRIDGE OVER PARKER RIVER 207 allowed by the sd county court, provided it shall be in the power of the sd Tho Thurley, for the best secureing of the sayd payment, to order the way to the sayd bridg some other way, that may be no considderable damage to the passengers. This agreem' to continue for the terme of ten yeares, and, if the county court then see fitt to take the sayd Bridge into their care & possession, then according to formar order by the county court in no" last the Bridge to be valued by abell men what it is worth, and the sd Tho : Thurley satticefied for it. This agreement the sayd Dan: Peirce & Henry Jaquis, so farr as they have power deli- gated to them, do rattifie & confirme to the sayd Tho : Thurley. his heires & assignes. In wittnes wherof the pties above conserned have to these presents enterchangably sett there hand, dated July 6"\ 1679. Daxiell Peirce, Henry Jaquis. This was explained before signeing that the sad Tho : Thurley shall have liberty to put any barr or gate as hee sees htt to restraine any that shall refuse to pay. This agreement was acknowledged to be the act & deed of the psons subscribing July G'*', 1679, before me. Jo: WooDBRiDG, Coininis''. Memorandum that whereas on the other syde it is mentioned y' George march bindeth himselfe || with Tho : Thurley || in fiftv pounds for the secureing of the Towne of Newbury & the county from the penalty of the law for the defect of the sd Bridge, and the sd Georg march refused to signe the sd agreem^ The sd Thomas Thurley doth heerby engage himselfe, his heires, executors, & administrators, and also his land now in his present possession, in securitv for the pforni- ance of the sd condition to the full efect. & acording to the true tennor of it. Dated July 7"', 1679. The court at Salem, the 25 of 9* m" 1679, do allow the above written agreem*. Atteste HiLLiARD \'errex, Cler. This is a true copie of the originall in my hands. Jo : Woodbridge. Recorded Aprill 21 : 1680. Under date of June 1 1, 1680, the General Coiu-t ordered : — In answr to a motion of the selectmen of Rowley for the setting free of a bridge now obstructed in the county of Essex & bounds of New- bury, once a county bridge, now in the hands of a particular, the Court 2o8 OL'LD XEWDURV sees meete to grant their desires. & doe order tlie sajd ijridge to he free. & be a county bridge againe. and what hath been e.xpended by anv par- ticular person for the repayring thereof to be payd or repayed them by the sajd countv. At a session of the cotint\' court held at Salem "on the 30"' day of the 9"' month 1680," lliorla}- was awarded fif- teen pounds on the followini;- terms and conditions: — This court doe order that the county Treasurer shall pav Tho Thurlo fifteene pounds : of the first pav that comes in to his hands, which the court conceaivs is what the comittee gave in or allowed in consideration of his charge upon the bridg at newberye, which the Generall Court ordered the county of Essex to sattisfy him for, & if the said Thurlo do not rest sattisfyed in that, he may repaire to the next county court held at I])swich. whoe will then consider what shalbe his Just due. Although not satisfied with this award, Thorlav- did not press his claim for further allowance until the court met at Salem, June 26, 1683. He was then granted a hearing ; and, after an examination of his accounts, the following decision was placed on record : — This Court haveing received & pused the motion of Thomas Thurle\' to have further allowance for his disburstment vpon the bridg at new- Ijerye. vpon veiw of the order of this court, 30 : q"'" : 80 : which made alowance to him according to Gen'" Court order. iS: his claime by his acco' : (which seemes to vs Irrational) being examined &• the pfect acco' : of the transactions of the Court about this matter not being p'sented. This court sees noe cause to advance further in allowance to him. but Judg if that Thurley had given acco* of what he receiued for Tole in money & otherwaise from passengers : viz : Strangers & townes people of newberye. he hath had farr more tlian he doth give accot. >.^ make ciialleng of tlioe most of tliem and such as are to liigh vallued. or such as ought not to be accounted. \S\ order of the (ieneral C'oiut, adopted Jime 11. 1680, Thorlay's bridge was made fi'ce. b'oi- man)- xears it was an essential part of the great thoi-oughfare which extended from Boston to Ne\\hur\', and thence oxer the ferr\' at Carr's Island to Xoithei'n .\ew Ilampshire and the eastern frontier. It has been lehuilt and rei)aireil several times ; but the r" *■. /■ ,' fit, ';.'■• ^^^S^ ji ti 4l CORNER OF THE BOSTON AND MIDDLE ROADS. "%?!^-N. '^^'***i^M(V-, AT DUMMER ACADEMY. rilOKLAY'S BRIDGE OVER PARAER R/l'ER 211 location has never been changed, and it still stands on the same site that it occupied two hundred and fifty years ago. Along the roadside there are quaint old milestones, at regular intervals, to mark the distance to and from Boston. Within the limits of the town of Newbury four of these stones are now standing. Two of them for many years lay flat upon the ground, but, through the efforts of Messrs. William Little and N. N. Dummer, they have recently been placed upright. The stone that marked the thirty-fourth mile from Boston is missing. Tradition says it was taken from its proper place fifty years ago, and used in the construction of a culvert on the road leading to Byfield Factory. PLUM ISLAND. A line of low sand-hills, extending for nearl}" nine miles from the mouth of the Merrimack Ri\-er, in a southeasterly direction, and separated from the main land by a shallow, winding stream ; a few straggling bushes, with thin patches of coarse grass scattered here and there ; and a narrow strip of soft, )'ielding sand washed by the waters of the Atlantic, are the distinctive features and prominent char- acteristics of Plum Island. Long before the settlement of Newbury, Indians wandered aimlessly over its hills of sand or camj^ed, in summer-time, beneath a few scrubby and stunted pine-trees growing near its southern extremity. On a map discovered in 1884 among the manuscripts of the British Museum, e\idently drawn before Newbury had a legal existence, this long, narrow island is correctly laid down, but no name is given to it. Soon after the landing of the Rev. Thomas Parker and his party on the banks of the Ouascacunquen River, in 1635, the island was called IMum Island. It probably re- ceived its name from the large number of somewhat acrid beach plums gathered there during the months of August and September. Although ap])arentl}- unattractix'e and unproductix'e, the early settlers of Newbury found con\enient pasturage at the southern extremity of the island for horses and cattle, and were inclined to exercise their rights and prixileges to the exclusion of all others. But March 13, 1639, the (jen- eral Couit issued the following decree: — I'lum Lsland is to remain in the Court'.s power: onlv for the present Ipswich, Newbury, and the new phmtation (Rowlevi between them may have the use of it. till tiic Couit sliail see cause otherwise to dispose of it. PLUM IS LA AD 213 March 15, 1649, the Rev. Thomas Parker, the Rev. James Noyes, Percival Lowle, John Spencer, Richard Kent, I{d\vard Woodman, and others petitioned the General Court to grant the whole of Plum Island to the town of Newbury. In answer to this petition, (3ct. 17, 1649, the court granted two-fifths of the island to Newbury, two-fifths to Ipswich, and one-fifth to Rowley. Sept. 23, 1661, the island was divided, " begining at the upland neere Merrimacke barre, and so extending to Sandy beach" ; and September 25 the division was completed, "be- ginning at Rowley bounds and reaching to Sandy beach." Some years later complaint was made in regard to the unequal division of pasturage between the inhabitants of the several towns named. In answer to the petition of the selectmen of Ipswich, relating to the use and improvement of Plum Island by Ipswich and Newbury, the court ordered, in 1679, "that no horses nor cattle be put upon said island without the consent of the major part of the proprietors of the said island." In 1739, an "Act for the effectual preventing of horses, sheep, cattle, and swine, from running at large or feeding upon a certain island, called Plum Island, lying in Ipswich Bay, in the County of P2sse.\," was passed by the General Court. This act was continued in force, by renewal, until 1792. During the Revolutionary War troops were stationed on the island to prevent the landing of soldiers or sailors from English vessels on the coast. In the month of May, 1776, the town of Newburyport voted to erect a fort on the island at a cost not exceeding four thousand pounds ; and June 30, 1777, the town "voted to allow the soldiers stationed at Plum Island candles and sweetening for their beer." In 1 78 1, the General Court "Resolved, that there be raised in the county of Essex, and stationed at the fort on Plum Island, one corporal and two matrosses." And November 3, of the same year, provision was made for relieving the men from active service during the winter season by the passage of another resolution, from which the following extract is taken : — 2 14 OULD XEWBURY And it is farther resolved that the guards at Plum Island . . . be forthwith discharged and the commander in chief be desired to dismiss them accordingly, and give such orders as he shall think proper for securing the cannon and stores belonging to this Commonwealth in the forts on Plum Island (Acts of 1781. Chapter 320). July 6, 1782, the General Court ai^ain "Resolved, that there be raised in the county of Essex and stationed at Plum Island one corporal and three matrosses " (Acts of 1782, Chapter 131 ). Matrosses were soldiers who came next to the gunners in a train of artillery, and assisted them in loading, firing, and sponging the guns. They carried firelocks, and usually marched with the store wagons as guards and assistants. In 1783, the Newburyport Marine Society erected two beacons on Plum Island, and the merchants of Newbury- port supplied the funds necessary for maintaining a light for the protection and guidance of incoming vessels at night. This expense was unequally distributed among a few public- spirited citizens who appealed to the legislature to pro\-ide light-houses and lights at the public cost. The General Court responded with the following act : — Whereas it will be of great advantage to the commerce of this commonwealth that two public lights should be established upon the north end of Plumb Island, in Ipswich Bay. in the county of Essex, in such a position as to form but one light to vessels passing over the bar into Merrimack River, Be it therefore enacted that the Commissary-General with Messieurs William Coombs. Michael Hodge. >S; William Bartlett of Newburv- port in the County of Essex, merchants, be. and hereby are invested witli full powers and authority to erect & build two small wooden light houses on the nortli end of Plumb Island aforesaid, and in the position above described, convenient for fixing proper lights thereon : provided the expense of erecting >^ building the said light houses shall not exceed the sum of ^300 lawful money : iv; provided the said light houses be so constructed as whenever the said liar should shift, the said liglit houses be moved so as ahvavs to l>e kept in the position aforesaid. And be it further enacted That the expense of luiiUling the said light houses shall be defrayed out of the monies which siiall lie received into the Treasurv of the Commonwealth for the vear 1 7X8 PLUM ISLAXD 215 on account of duties imposed for the purpose of supporting & main- taininii the several light houses in this Commonwealth not before appro- priated. And be it further enacted, that when the light houses aforesaid shall be completed the Commissary General provide suitable lights to be placed therein. & maintain them in the same manner & out of the same funds as other public lights of this Commonwealth are provided and maintained; and the Commissary General is hereby directed & enjoined to provide for the keeping the said light houses at all times in the posi- tion above described. Provided nevertheless. That nothing in this Act shall oblige the Com- missary General to advance any money for the support of the Lights to be erected as aforesaid, until the debts previously contracted for the support of the public lights be first discharged out of the funds appro- priated therefor ; but if any person or persons will advance money for the support of the said lights to be erected as aforesaid, the Commissary General is directed to charge the money so advanced to the said funds (Chapter 21, Acts of 1787)- Jan. 22, 1789, the General Court Resolved that there be allowed & paid out of the treasury of this commonwealth to ye keeper of the light houses on Plumb Island for ye time being /66 per annum from & after the fifteenth day of February. 1789. Seven days later the General Court, Resolved that there be allowed & paid out of the Publick Treasury to William Coombs, Michael Hodge & William Bartlett, a committee appointed by a law of this Commonwealth passed Nov. 16, 1787, to build two wooden light houses on the north end of Plumb Island, the sum of /266, 4 shillings, 10 pence, being in full for their expenses for erecting & building the said light houses. The same to be paid out of the fund & in the manner already provided by law for this purpose. June 10, 1790, the General Court passed the following- Act for granting to the United States of America the several public light houses within this commonwealth. Be it enacted. That there be & hereby are granted unto the United States of America . . . the two light houses situate on the north end of Plumb Island in the county of Essex, together with the lands & tenements thereunto belonging, the property of this Commonwealth, with the jurisdiction of the same. . . . 2 l6 OULD XEWBURY Also the four following buoys at the mouth of the Merrimack River, one on the Hum-sands, another on the Sunken Rocks, another on the (langway Rocks, and the fourth on the Half-Tide Rocks. . . . Provided Nevertheless. That if the I'nited .States shall at any time hereafter neglect to keep lighted and in repair anv one or more of the Light-houses aforesaid, then the grant of such Light House or Light houses so neglected shall be void & of no effect. Provided also . . . That if the United .States shall at any time here- after make any compensation to any one of the I'nited States for the cession of anv lighthouse heretofore, or which may be hereafter, made to the I'nited .States, that then like compensation be made to this Com- monwealth by the United States for the cession of the lighthouses afore- said in proportion to their respective values. PLUM ISLAND LIGHT-HOUSE. The a])p(Hntmeiit of Abner Lowell, of Xewburyport, as light-keeper wa.s made by \\'ashinL;ton, and .sent to the senate for confirmation March lo, 1790. Mr. Lowell entered upon his duties immediately after his appointment, and served as light-keeper for nearly twenty years. He was succeeded by his son Lewis Lowell, who held the jiosition luitil 1823, and then !))■ his grandson Josej^h Lowell, who continued in the same line ot service for foiu'teen years, so that three genera- tions of the Lowell famil)-, father, son, and grandson, held the office of light-keeper at Plum Island for fort\'-se\en }ears. In order to establish the rights and pri\ileges of the I'nited States in and to the land under and adjoining tlic light-houses, the legislature of the C'onnnonwealth of Massachusetts passed a general law ceding jurisdiction, as follows: — Jurisdiction is hereby ceded to the I'nited States over anv tracts of land within this commonwealth, whether ujjland or covered l)y tide PLUM /SLA. YD 217 water, the title to which has heretofore been acquired bv the United States for the purpose of erecting or maintaining light houses, beacon lights, range lights, light-keepers dwellings or any signals for navigators & over any tracts of land, whether upland or covered bv tide water, to which the United States shall acquire title from this Commonwealth. Such Jurisdiction is hereby ceded subject to the provisions of Chapter 233. Acts of 1871 (Chapter 3S3, .Acts of 1874). Aug. 8. 1856, one of these light-houses was destroyed by fire, and the other was rebuilt and provided with new lanterns. A movable light was then placed in range with the stationary PLUM ISLAND HOTEL. one, to mark the shifting channel at the mouth of the Merri- mack River, and was maintained by the federal government until 1890, when it was discontinued. The half-tone print on the preceding page gives a view of the light-house now- standing. The Plum Island Turnpike and Bridge Corporation w^as organized the latter part of December in the year 1804. Subscribers to the capital .stock met Jan. ig, 1805, and ap- pointed a committee to e.xamine and lay out a route for the proposed turnpike. The following year the General Court passed " An Act to establish Plum Island Turnpike and Bridge Corporation." Leonard Smith, ELbenezer Stocker, Moses Brown, William Bartlett, David Coffin, Jonathan Gage, and John Greenleaf, and their associates, were made a cor- 2l8 OULD XEU'BURY poratimi lOi" the purpose of la\'ini;' and making;' a turnpike road from the northeast ^W(\ of Rolfe's Lane in the town of Xew- bur)' to a point on l^lum Ishuul about one mile north of Sandy beach, so called, and building a bridge across Plum Island Ri\er, etc. (Chapter 41, Acts of 1806). This act of incorporation was accepted by the stockholders March 14, 1806, and the turnpike and bridge were com- menced and comj^leted during the summer of that year. The hotel was probabh' built in the )-ear following. Benjamin Clifford, who was apparently the first landlord, entered upon his duties March 26, 180S. After passing through \arious FLAT-IRON POINT. ■JOPPA. vicissitudes of good and bad fortune, during which both bridge and turnpike were seriously injured by severe storms and frecjuently rendered wholly impassable, the stock of the corporation was purchased by a few indixiduals, and some years later the comi:)any was reorganized. Under the man- agement of the Amesbur)', Haxerhill & Lawrence Street Railwa}' Comi:)any, it now provides comenient and commodi- ous horse-cars for the transportation of \isitors to and from the island during the summer months. The turn})ike l^egins onl\' a few rods below the pictur- esque collection of moss-co\ered houses and tpiaint little shops on the ri\er bank, known b}' the name of "joppa." That localit\', like its ancii-'nt namesake, has been inhabited PL CM /SLA XI) 2 19 b)' fishermen from time immemorial. As early as 1640, sturgeon were there packed and pickled for the European market, at a later date mackerel and cod were brought from the sea and dried upon fish-flakes, and now large quantities of CLAM HOUSES.— "JOPPA." clams are taken daily from the flats in that neighborhood, and made ready for shipment to the far west. From the foot of Rolfe's Lane (now South Green Street) the turnpike stretches away across the marshes to Plum Island, two miles distant. ^J^ PLUM ISLAND RIVER AND MARSHES. A convenient bridge spans the narrow river that separates these marshes from the sand-hills beyond; and innumerable cone-shaped hay-ricks are scattered here and there, far as the eye can reach, "along these low green prairies of the sea." OULD NEWBURY The shining tide steals softly up Across the wide green splendor. Creek swelling creek, then all at once The marshes make surrender. .And all day long the summer sea Creams murmuring up the shingle : .And all dav long the airs of earth With airs of heaven mingle.'" PLUM ISLAND BEACH. In summer the island is a favorite resort of pleasure parties, and the sandy beach, washed by the waters of the Atlantic, resounds with shouts of joy and laughter. Young and old gather there for rest and recreation ; and, when at night the shadows begin tt) lengthen and the stars a]:>i:)ear one by one in the blue vault abo\-e, the songs of youth and beaut}' fill the air and mingle with the murmur of the sea. In winter, the \'iew from these low and desolate sand- hills is often grand and majestic. When a fierce storm is raging, the waxx's dasli fiirioiLsIx- on the beach, and the strong east wind blows tlie spra\' fai' iiilaiul. At such a time wrecks are cast upon the shoi'c witli terrible loss ot liic. .\lmost every season brings one or more ot these tlisasters ; but the most memorable one occmied Dec. J4, 1^39. when the brig " I'ocahontas " was lost, and all on board perished. DEER ISLAND. Among the papers and public documents on file at the state house in Boston is the following petition : — To the honorable Generall Court now assembled at Boston the 25"' of May. 1655. The humble petition of Joseph Sweete humbly Sheweth That yo' petitioner being one y' a long time had Lyved in Newbury, and bv Reason of the multitude of Inhabitants y' have crowded in there, and thereby the accommodations ye town has had to dispose of. he has had httell or no land given him. wh^'i the Selectmen have been sensible of. and therefore have granted hym Right to an Hand lying In Merri- mack Ryer. being not above 6 or 8 Rod from Xuberry Shore and Caled Deare Hand, which is not above six acres of Land. Yo'- poore petitioner humbly prays this honorable court would be pleased to confirm ye grant of ye said Deare Hand to yo' petitioner. And he shall pray, &c. The signature of this petition is missing, and there is no indorsement upon it stating when it was received by the General Court or how it was disposed of. In the absence of the petitioner, it was possibly overlooked, or withdrawn for want of support. If the selectmen of Newbury granted the island to Joseph Sweete, as stated in his petition, no record of that fact can now be found. The first mention of Deer Island in the records of the colony of Massachusetts Bay is under date of May 15, 1672, and is as follows : — In answer to the petition of the inhabitants of Salisbury, as also that of M'' George Carrs. it is ordered that Deare Island & Eagle Island, petitioned for as to the propriety, remajne the countrys. the timber & trees to be for Georg Carr for the vse of the bridg. till this Court take further order : the herbage of them, w*'> liberty to cutt downe brush & 2 22 OULD XKWLU'RY underwood to make pasture lor slieepe, to be to & for the vse of the sajd towne of Sali.sl)ury. At a town nicctini; liclcl in Salislnu'}- Ma}' i6, 1682, it was voted "that the town cloth w"' all ihankfullness accept of ye bell w'"' is i)resentecl imto them by Air. George Hewes. And ye town in wa}' of gratuit)' & manifestation of their thank- fullness & res[KXt to ye s' Mr. Mewes do for ye prsent L;"i\e unto him all their right y' they ha\'e in Ueare Hand accord- ing to ye grant of ye Gen" Court." At the same meeting the town "ordered that Mr. Hrad- bur}' shall write a note to Mr. Hewes to deliver }-e bell to goodman Norton & Sam" Getchell & Nath" & Jn" Easman & goodman Collins to be brought down to ye meeting house." George Hewes died intestate previous to 1698. His son Solomon Hewes, of Portsmouth, gave a deed of the island to John Stevens, of Portsmouth, March 17, 1698 (ICssex Regis- try of Deeds,'book 13, page 300). John Stevens, of Salisbury, conveyed it to Thomas Merrill, of Newbury, Jan. i i, 1706-7 (book 21, page 93). Thomas Merrill, of Salisbury, sold it to Thomas llartlett. of Newbury, April 25, 1727 (book '^i, p^ge 286). Thomas ]-}artlett died intestate, and administration was granted May 9, 1744. In the division of his real estate, this island was assigned to his daughter Sarah Bartlett. Sarah Bartlett, of Newbury, conveyed to her brother luioch Bartlett, of Newbury, tanner, "the island called Deer Island in Merrimack River," Aug. 28, 1746 (^book 91, jxige 121). Feb. 16, 1753, luioch l^artlett sold to Matthias Plant "the island called Deer Island opposite to said I'lant's homestead, containing seven acres" (l)ook 153, page 252). The Rew Matthias Plant died April 2, 1753. His will, dated l-eb. 2'-,, 1750-I, and pro\-ed May 7, 1753, gave to his wife L\'dia all his real estate. She died Oct. 8, 1753. Her will, dated Sept. 29, 1753, and proxecl ( )ct. 22, 1753, ga\e to her "cousin Thomas Haitlett, Junior, Deer Island King in Merrimack River." 'Ihomas Bartlett married Hannah Mootl\-, Xo\-. 18, 1718. DEER ISLAXD 223 His will, dated Feb. 27, 1767, and proved May 28, 1771, mentions his wife Hannah and children, Cutting Bartlett, Edmand Bartlett, Abigail Pettingal, Judith Cook, Mary Somerby, Sarah Coffin, Hannah Bartlett, Lydia Bartlett, Elizabeth Bartlett, Thomas Bartlett, and Parker Bartlett. To his sons, Thomas and Parker, is devised " all my estate that I have given them deeds of in my life time, and also all the rest of my estate, whether real or personal, they to pay for the support of my wife " and, also, a certain specific sum to daughters Lydia and Elizabeth Bartlett. Thomas Bartlett, son of Thomas and Hannah (Moody) Bartlett, was born Feb. 2, 1734. In his will, dated Oct. 25, 1 78 1, and proved March 13, 1782, he gave to his "wife Hannah all my estate, both real and personal." Their only child, Nehemiah Bartlett, was born Sept. 20, 1764. Nehemiah Bartlett sold to Dudley Atkins Tyng and others Dec. 13, 1 791, "a certain island lying in Merrimack River in the town of Newbury, commonly called Deer Island, con- taining five acres formerly the property of Thomas Bartlett, deceased" (book 155, page 14). Dudley Atkins Tyng and others, by deed dated March 5, 1792, conveyed it to the proprietors of the Essex-Merrimack bridge (book 155, page 14). Under chapter three hundred and nine of the acts of the legislature of 1868 the bridge was made free, and laid out as a public highway by the county commissioners. April 5, 1870, the proprietors of the bridge sold the island to Green- leaf Dodge ; and he conveyed it to Abby W. Dodge April 21, 1 8 70. Abby W. Dodge, of Newburyport, widow, sold the property to Richard S. Spofford, of Newburyport, Oct. i, 1874. Mr. Spofford, who by the last-mentioned conveyance came into possession of Deer Island, was a lineal descendant of John Spofford, who settled in Rowley previous to 1643. Colonel Daniel Spofford, fourth in descent from John Spof- ford, was born in Rowley in April, 1721, and married Judith Follensby in 1741. He was at the battle of Lexington, and DEER ISLAXD 225 afterward had command of a regiment in the Revolutionary War. His youngest son, Amos Spofford, born Sept. 20, 175 1, was the first regular physician permanently settled in the second parish of Rowley. He married Irene Dole, daughter of Captain Moses and Ruth (Peabody) Dole, by whom he had eight sons and three daughters. His fourth son, Richard Smith Spofford, was born May 24, 1787. He graduated at Harvard College in 181 2, and com- menced the practice of medicine in Newburyport in 18 16. He married Mrs. Frances Maria (Mills) Lord. For more than fifty years he was one of the leading physicians of the town, displaying great skill and sagacity in the diagnosis of disease and alleviating suffering by judicious medical advice. He died Jan. 19, 1872, leaving two children (Richard S. Spofford, Jr., and Frances H. Spofford) and a step-daughter (Mrs. Georgiana Hall, a daughter of Mrs. Spofford by a previous marriage). Richard S. Spofford, Jr., was born in Newburyport Feb. 15, 1833. He was educated in the public schools of the town and at Dummer Academy, Byfield. He read law in the office of Hon. Caleb Cushing, and was admitted to practice in the United States circuit court at \Vashingtt)n in 1856, and the year following was made a member of the bar in Fssex county and in Suffolk county, Massachusetts. He was three times elected representative to the General Court from Newburyport, in 1857, 1858, and 1865. He married, Dec. 19, 1865, Miss Harriet Elizabeth, daugh- ter of Colonel Joseph N. and Sarah Prescott. He was deeply interested in the work and ritual of the Masonic Fraternity, and was made a Mason in St. John's Lodge, Newburyport, Aug. 25, 1854. He became a Knight Templar in the Newburyport Encampment Aug. 21, 1856; and Nov. 21, 1862, he was advanced to membership in the Supreme Council of the Inspectors General of the thirty-third degree. He was associated with Hon. Caleb Cushing as a law partner in Washington for a time, and afterward with Charles DEER ISLAND 227 W. Tuttle, Esq., in Boston. During the last few years of his Hfe he was the attorney and solicitor of the Galveston, Harrisburg & San Antonio Railway Company, which now forms a part of the Southern Pacific railway system. In 1884, he was a candidate for congress in the seventh Massachusetts district. He made a strong and vigorous canvass ; but his political friends were in a minority in the district, and he failed to receive the number of votes neces- sary to secure his election. On account of ill-health he did not feel able to renew the contest in 1886. He died Aug. 1 1, 1888, and was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery, Newburyport. His love and appreciation of this picturesque spot, where he lived for many years, find recognition in the following lines inscribed to " R. S. S. at Deer Island on the Merrimac," by John G. Whittier : — " Make, for he loved thee well, our Merrimac, From wave and shore a low and long lament For him whose last look sought thee, as he went The unknown way from which no step comes back. And ye, O ancient pine-trees, at whose feet He watched in life the sunset's reddening glow, Let the soft south wind through your needles blow A titting requiem tenderly and sweet ! No fonder lover of all lovely things Shall walk where once he walked, no smile more glad Greet friends than his who friends in all men had. Whose pleasant memory to that island clings. Where a dear mourner in the home he left Of love's sweet solace cannot be bereft." The island covers an area of nearly seven acres. The easterly end is low, and often submerged by the flowing tide ; but the westerly shore is bold and rocky, and fringed with pine and fir trees. The Essex-Merrimack bridge, suspended by heavy chains, connects it with Newburyport. Formerly, a picturesque structure, built of wood and partly covered, extended from the island to the Salisbury shore ; but that has been removed and replaced by an iron bridge of modern construction. 2 2b OULD XEWBCRY The clwcllinL;' house, with its gambrel roof and broad piazzas, half hidden in the shrubber\", has an air of comfort and seclusion ; and from its western windows the inmates look out upon a broad antl extended \iew of the ri\er and the picturesque hills be\'ond. The staircase is broad and quaint, and the spacious hall abo\-e, extendini^ through the house trom front to rear, gix'cs it a stateh' appearance. It was the residence of the toll-gatherer when the island was the property of the bridge corporation, and at one time was occupied as a tavern for the accommodation of travellers. Under the charge of Mr. I^Lbenezer Pearson as landlord, it became a noted resort for pleasure-seekers. A delightful spot in summer and a famous rendez\-ous for sleighing parties in winter, it was especially attractive when a supper or a dance closed the festi\'ities of the da}". On the evening of Dec. ig, 1816, Major Elijah P. Good- ridge, of Bangor, Me., passed the tavern shorth' before nine o'clock, and crossed the bridge on his way to Xewbur\'port. On the road now known as Moseley A\enue, near the brow of the hill, he was assaulted, according to his statement, bv three men, thrown from his horse, beaten, wounded in the hand b\' a pistol-sht)t, and then robbed of a large sum of money, and left senseless on the ground. Upon his reco\-ery he made his way back to the island, and told an incoherent story about the crime that had been committed. The affair caused a great furor of excitement. Mr. Pearson, the inn- keeper, was arrested as being in some way connected with the robbery ; but in the absence of satisfactor)' proof he was acquitted. Sexeral other persons were afterward ac- cused, and brought to tiial. Daniel Webster was engaged as counsel for a number of the defendants. The testimony of Goodridge on the witness-stand was so incredible and contradictor)- that \erdicts of "not guilt\' " were rendered, (iradually, public opinion was aroused, ami the pix'tended robber)' was denounced as a frauil. in oi-dcr to escape from tinancial end)arrassment, and at the same time ac- count for the loss of his peisonal piopertN', it is saitl that Major ( loodridge de\ised this scheme and carried it into DEER ISLAND 229 effect, firing the pistol with his own hand, and afterward throwing it into the river. He soon after disappeared from public view, and is said to have died in seclusion in one of the Southern States. The old tavern stood close to the public highway that crosses the island ; but, when the property came into the possession of Mr. Spofford, the house was removed to a more retired spot a few rods distant, and entirely remodeled within and without. In this attractive and picturesque old house Mrs. Spofford still receives and entertains her kindred and friends. Under its sheltering roof most of her stories and poems have been prepared for publication, and there she still finds time and opportunity for recreation and employment congenial to her tastes. BARTLETT'S COVE. On the wcstcii)" bank of the Merrimack Ri\er, just aboxe the Essex Merrimack Bridge, the family of Richard Bart- lett, Sr., settled at a very early date. They came to New- England in 1635, probably in company with Rev. Thomas Parker and others from Wiltshire, England, in the ship " Mary and John." llie name of John Bartlett, eldest son of Rich- ard Bartlett, apj^ears in the list of jiassengers by that vessel. Richard Bartlett, Sr., brought with him from England a CO})}' of the Breeches Bible, which has been carefully pre- served in the family, and was exhibited by Miss Elizabeth G. Hoyt, of Chelsea, Mass., at the celebration of the two hun- dred and fiftieth anniversary of the settlement of Newbury, June 10, 1885. Mr. John Ward Dean has given a very minute and interest- ing description of this Bible in the Genealogical Register for April, 1886; and in the same number ma}- be found a care- fully prepared article on " Newbury and the Bartlett Eamih'," by John Coffin Jones Brown, Escj. l-'rorn the original written records in this old Bible, and the additional information supplied b)' the i)ublicati()n referred to above, it is evident that the children of Richard Bartlett, Sr., at the time of his emigration to America, were as follows : — Joane, born Jan. 29. 1610. John, born Nov. 9. 1613. Thomas, born Jan. 22, 161 5. Richard, born Oct. 31. 1621. Cliristoplicr, l)orn Feb. 25. 1623. Anne, l)orn Feb. 26, 1625. Richard Bartlett, Sr., died May 20, 1647. There has been some doubt whether he came to New ICnirlanti with his sons BARTLETT'S COVE 231 in 1635 ; but the discovery of his nuncupati\'e will and the inventory of his personal estate, now for the first time pub- lished, will set these doubts at rest. Both the will and inven- tory are exceedingly interesting, and throw considerable light upon the history of those early days. The will expressly states that the testator gave to his son John " the greate bible," undoubtedly the one exhibited at the two hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the settlement of Newbury ; and the items of the inventory are of sufficient historical importance to warrant their publication in full, with the appraised \'alues affixed. In the Essex Registry of Deeds, Ipsw^ich Series, book i, pages 26 (89) and 26 (91) are the following records: — The testimony of William Titcombe & Anthony Somersby concerning the last will & testament of Richard Bartlett sen'r, of Newbury, de- ceased, the 20th of May : 1647 : aboute a month before he deceased, we being with him, & two of his sons being present, he being very ill. & had bene weake all the spring, finding in himselfe that he was not like to continew, he desired us to take notice what his mind was concerning that small estate he had. how he woukl dispose of it: as for his sonn John Bartlett he had don for him more than for the rest of his children, and at that tyme did not dispose any to him. To his sonne Christopher Bartlett he did bequeath the debt which latly he had borrowed of him, which was five bushells of wheate, if so be it should please the Lord to take him awav at this sickness, or ells if he should lye longe vissitted, his necessity would require that he should pay it againe. To his daugh- ter Johan, wife of William Titcombe, he bequeathed one pair of new shoes for herselfe, & her four daughters each one a pair of shoes; & all the rest of his goods & chattells that were not disposed of he be- queathed wholy to his sonne Richard Bartlett, whom he made his sole heir & executor. I, Anthony Somersby, the next day persuaded him to give something to his son John Bartlett, his answer was, that he had been with his sonne Richard Bartlett this twelve month, & all that he had was to little for to give him, seing he had bene weake & ill & could doe little but lay upon his sonnes charges, besides, sd he, if I should lye longe sick I shall be chargable to Richard &: not to any of the rest, and for John I have done more formerly, yet I will give him y«' warming pan. and vpon his sonns request he gave him a great bible : this he Spake being in perfect memory, and so continued to the last breath. I, Edward Rawson. wittness to the last part of the will, that I often heard the said Richard Bartlett, sen"r, say (y*^' time of his sickness) he 232 OULD XEWBCRY would & did give all to his sonne Richard IJartlett. the 29"' of Septem- ber. 1647. this was before y"' witness. Edw.akd Rawson. .Mr. Rawson Sworne to the first part of this will : .Vnthonv Soniersby sworiie to the wholl will, before the Court held at Ipswich. 2S"i : 7"' month. 1647. p. me Robert Lord. Clcrke. .\n Inventory of the Goods & Chattells of Richard Bartlett of Xew- jLuy. shoemaker, who deceased the 21th of Mav. 1647. taken by Villiam Titcombe, John Bartlett & Anthony .Somersby. £ s. d. mprimis : in leather valewed at 2150 tem : his wearing apparrell, 1 40 tern : 2 pairs of canvas sheets i 10 tem : one old shirt & a napkin o 21 tem : one old coverlit & a blankett i 00 t : one old Hock bed & a bolster. i 00 t : one old great Kettle 0120 t : one pair of pott hangers, o 14 tem : one brasse pott ..0100 tem : two little kettles o 50 t : one small brass morter, o 76 t : one warming pan o 60 t : one great bible, . 0120 t : some other small bookes o 70 t : one cow 4 50 t : one heiffer, .1 150 t : his working geare & lasts : o 40 t : in old pewter platters, and an old pint pott o 20 t : one Spitt & frying pan, o 36 t : one small muskett o 90 t : one paire of bellowes. . . o 10 t : bushell bagg, 2 old chests, a stone bottle & a half bushel bag, o 50 t : his debts. 4190 t : in .Silver .... ...230 Witness that this is a true inventory. the ni'ke of W'li.i.i.VM TlTCOMH, John I;.\rtlkt. .Anthonv S().mi:ksi!V. Testified before tiie Court upon oath bv .Vnthonv .Somersbv. 2Sth : 7tli : 1^)47. p. me Ror.KRT Lord, Clirkc. BARrLETT'S COVK 233 Joane, the eldest daui;'hter of Richard Bartlett, Sr., married William Titconib, who is said to have come to New England in the ship " Hercules," and whose testimony is given in the affidavit cjuoted above. He was also one of the appraisers of the estate. The sons, John, Richard, and Christopher, are mentioned in the list of freeholders in the town of Newbury, Dec. 7, 1642, "as entitled to their proportionable right in all the waste lands undisposed of." John was made a freeman May I?) ^^17- When the new town was laid out, lot No. 27 was assigned to him. "Nov. 29, 1647. John Pike, Jr., of New- bury, for a bill of ^5, assigned for me to take up of Richard Kent, senior, of Newbury, by John Bartlett, & £,1 cash," con- veyed to John Bartlett, of Newbury, "4 acres in ye verge of lotts, on the north side of the frogge pond in Newbury, in the new towne, being bounded on ye north with the land of An- thony Morse, on the south with the land of Thomas Browne, on the east end the land of John Bonde, and on the west with the streete " (Esse.x Deeds, Ipswich Series, book i, page 54 (177). This lot of foiu' acres of land was on Market Street, then called Cross Street. The house that John Bartlett owned and occupied stood on the southeasterly side of the lane leading to W'atts' Cellar, now State Street, as will appear by the following conveyance made May 29, 1660, and recorded in book 3, page 177 (132), Ipswich Series : — John Bartlett. sen', of Newbury, for love & a.s part of a portion in marriage to my son John Bartlett with Sara, daughter of John Knight, sen'', of Newbury, conveys to said John and Sara 6 acres of land in Newbury, "in the field comonly knowne by the name of the nether nyne lotts, being six acres of my eight that is scitvate in the field abovesayd. reserveing full two acres of the sayd eight for my owne proper use on the north syde ne.xt to the land of Anthony Morse, seni'", the other six acres is bounded with the land of Steephen Greenliefe on the east, the abovesayd two acre* on the North, the high street on the South, the Crose Street on the west, as also two acres of land more being halfe my house lott, having Edward Richardsons land on the North. Wm. Chandlours land on the East, the lane goeing downe to Watts his Seller on the west, and mv other part of land on which my house BARTLETTS COVE 235 standeth vpon the south.'" with house buiU on the said two acres. &C. : & also a freehold boutrht of Thomas Dow. John Bartlett died Feb. 5, 167S, at the age of si.xtv-five. His brother Christopher bought of \\'illiam Titcomb, March i, 1 651, four acres of land "in the feild called the lower nine lotts, bounded by the highway neere the frogg pond on the South & Cross street on the west, John Bond's land on the east, & John Bartlett's on the north" (book i, page III (325), Ipswich Series). Si.x or seven years later Christopher was probably settled at Bartlett's Cove. Feb. 3, 1658, he conveyed to John Bayley eleven acres of land " bounded by the highway to Salsberry new Towne on the .south and Merrimack River on the North " in exchange for fifteen acres of land bounded by the Merrimack River on the north and his own land on the other three sides (book 3, page 260 (196), Ipswich Series). This last deed was not acknowledged until 1661, and was not recorded until 1673. April 8, 1662, he sold to Henry Teux- bury twenty acres of land in Newbury, bounded by the Merri- mack River on the north, by a creek on the east, by land of Goodman Moody on the south, and land of grantor on the west (book 2, page 184 {341), Ipswich Series). Christopher Bart- lett died March 15, 1669-70. Thomas Bartlett, a brother, born Jan. 22, 161 5, and Anne Bartlett, a sister, born Feb. 26, 1625, probably died in Fngland. Richard Bartlett, Jr., who w^as made executor of his father's will and also residuary legatee, was probably the first one of the family who settled at Bartlett's Cove. March 26, 1650, he bought eight acres of land of John Spencer " on y'' north side of Merrimack ridge as it is boitnded by John Pike's land on the east and the land of M' William Thomas on the west, the streete on the South and a parcell of land comon on the north next to Merrimack river of an equal breadth," with cellars, houses, etc. (book i, page 70 (218), Ipswich Series). And April 10, 1652, he bought an adjoining lot of William Thomas, "bounded with Merrimack River on the north and the high Street on the South" (book 3, page 350 (270), Ips- 236 OUI.D NEWBURY wich Scries). Tliis last deed was not acknowledged until 1663, and was not recorded until 1^)75. April 22, 1652, Lieutenant Robert Pike, of Salisbur}', sold to Richard Bai'tlett, of Newbur\', five acres of upland in New- bury, " nere Merrimack, bounded east on John l{mer\''s land, west s'd Richard Hartlett, north Merr)'make Ri\ei', South High Street" (book i, page 12S (366), Ipswich Series). Now II, 1652, lulward Rawson, of Boston, gentleman, and wife, Airs. Rachell, for £)>. sold to Richard Hartlett, of New- bur)', eight acres of upland in Newbury, " boimded with the land of the sayd Richard Hartlett on the east, the highwa}' on the south, the land of James Jackman on the west, and Samuell Poores on the North." The deed was acknowledged in 1656, and recorded in 1675 (book 3, page 352 (272), Ips- wich Series). Oct. 20. 1669, Henry Teuxbury, of Newbury, w^eaver, for £,\QO, sold to Richard Hartlett, of Newbury, house, barn, and twenty-si.x acres of pasture and arable land in Newbur)-, " which I lately purchased of Christopher l^artlett, of New- bury, bounded with Merrimack River on the North, the land of Steven Swett & Robert Coker on the east, a black oake being the Southeast ctjrner bounds, ne.xt the highwa}' the land of Christopher Hartlett abovesayd and the highwa}' on the south bounds, and Christopher Hartlett's land also on the south" (book 3, page 353 (272), Ipswich Series). Some, if not all, of the land described in the above deeds was at or near Hartlett's Co\'e, and has remained in the j^os- session of the family to the present day. Richard Hartlett, Jr., was ])rominent in church affairs, and took an active part in the long struggle between Rev. Thomas Parker and the members of his church under the lead of Mr. lulward Woodman. lie was a delegate to the Cieneral Court tor se\'eral }'ears. He dietl prexious to Juh' 18, 169CS, aged seventy-seven. In his will, dated .\\->\\\ 19, 1695, and proved July 18, 1698, he gi\es to his thi'ee daugh- ters, Abigail, llannali, and Rebecca, "his ilwelling house and barn and oi'chard and land adjoining, about 12 aci'cs," and the rest and lesidue of his estate, not speciticalK' dexised, to his sons Samuel, Richard, and |ohn. BARTLETT'S COVE 237 His son Samuel was born Feb. 20, 1646, and married Elizabeth Titcomb, of Newbury, May 23, 167 1. Hon. Levi Bartlett, of Warner, N. H., in his biographical sketches of the Bartlett family, says, " During the arbitrary and tyranni- cal government of Sir Edmund Andros, Samuel Bartlett was a very active and zealous partisan ; and, when affairs were approaching their crisis, he mounted his horse, and set out from home with an old rusty sword, minus a scabbard, and reached Boston in season to assist in the imprisonment of Sir Edmund." He was one of the founders of Queen Anne's Chapel. Re\-. Matthias Plant, rector (jf the parish from 1722 to 1753, married Lydia, the youngest daughter of Samuel Bartlett. In the church records, under date of Oct. 29, 1727, in the handwriting of Mr. Plant, is a brief account of the earthquake which contains some interesting facts, es- pecially a statement to the effect that " the very first shock opened a new spring by my father Samuel Bartlett's house in the meadow." This spring now furnishes the water supply for the city of Newburyport. Samuel Bartlett died May 15, 1732, aged eighty-seven, and was buried in the churchyard connected with Queen Anne's Chapel, now a part of the Belleville Cemetery. On his tombstone is an inscription, which states that " He was one of the first founders of this church." His brother Richard, born Feb 21, 1649, married Hannah Emery Nov. 18, 1673. There were nine children, seven sons and two daughters, by this marriage. One of the sons, Joseph, was drafted, and sent to Haverhill to defend that town from the attack of Indians in 1708. He was capt- ured, and carried to Canada, where he remained a prisoner for more than four years. Another son, Stephen, was the father of Hon. Josiah Bartlett, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. John Bartlett, son of Richard Bartlett, Jr., and brother of Samuel and the above-named Richard, was born June 22, 1655, "^"^^ married Mary Rust Oct. 29, 1680. He learned the trade of tanner, and established himself in business at l^artlett's Cove. P"or several g^enerations the tannins: of '.'. *« >J:f.v=Ti^ ^^iV !/'y ■•V // // / /' 1 ^ • ) ij / / / / i! / ;/ ! 1 1 1 ', ' '^'^^/^j ;^ ^''^ \ A^^ // '/ J^^i^ixnn BART LETT'S COVE 239 hides was continued on the same spot, and traces of the old vats can still be seen. Ship-building was also established there at a very early date. Until quite recently there was no causeway or embank- ment along the Newbury shore. Small boats and fishing craft could easily enter the Cove from the river, and the tide ebbed and flowed in the basin that now forms the reser- voir of the Newburyport water supply. Under date of March 10, 1761, Coffin, in his History of Newbury, says " a ferry was granted from Newbury to Salis- bury about the middle of Bartlett's Cove " ; but, evidently, the court held at Ipswich and Salem did not confirm this grant, as will appear from the following papers now on file in the office of the clerk of courts at Salem : — To the Honbie His Majestys Justices of the Court of Quarter Sessions to be holden at Ipswich, March y^' 31, 1761. The Petition of sundry Persons whose || Names || are hereunto sub- scrib'^ Inhabitants principally of the Towns of Newbury & SaUsbury in the County of Essex in the Province of the Massachus"^ Bay in New England, Humbly sheweth That we apprehend a Ferry is much needed & will greatly serve the publick. over Merrimack River from a little below the House of Mr. Joseph Page in Salisbury to about the middle of Bartlets Cove so call'i in Newbury. First, Because this appears to us an exceeding good Place to keep a Ferry, having remarkable Eddys on both sides, which make half y'' River & being so Land-lock'' as to be very expos'^ to any wind that blows; & the Land so scitvated on both Sides that Persons may be seen near three quarters of a mile before they come to it. 2. It will shorten y*" way in travelling thro the Country a mile even were there a Bridge erected over Po — River, which yet is not done & tis quite uncertain when it will. And will save 3 or 4 Miles at present of very bad way, unless Amesbury Ferry Boat comes to Salisbury Point, which sometimes cannot be done, & often not without Difficulty, & which none can oblige the Ferrymen to & they often refuse. 3. The Town of Newbury has no Ferry between that at Toiun & Swctts, which is 8 or 9 miles ; nor Salisbury any within about 6 miles of this place. 4. They can very often pass here with Safety when they cannot pass 2 40 Ori.D NEWLUKY at cither t)t the other two Fcrrys without nnicli Difficulty iS; Danger especially in a Southwesterly wind, when here its perfectly calm: and sometimes when both the other Ferrys are impassable, the lo7ccr by reason of y winds. .S: the upper h\ reason of the rotten Ice which often lies near a month longer at Amesbury Ferry than at this place. And inasmuch as the s'^ Towns of Newbury and Salisbury have sig- nify' their Approbation || of s'' Ferry || & made Grants of their respec- tive Priviledges in the same, as by their \'otes to be produc'' to your Honours may appear, We therefore humbly pray, if your Honours in your wisdom shall see fit. that s'' Ferry may be granted and contirm'' for ever. And your Peti- tioners as in duty bound sliall ever ])ray, &c : Jxo New.m.a..\. Kdmlnd Baktlktt. Joseph Ste\kxs, \Villi.\.m Davenport, Joseph Cottle. Da\io Jack.ma.x. William Currier. Enoch Merrill, John Currier. Sam'-i- Bartlett. N.\THANiEL Dole. John Stone. Sa.muel Swett. Tho^ Bartlett. And manv others. To tliis petition Hiimphre\' Currier made the following remonstrance : — To tile Hon"' Court of (Juarter Sessions of y>^^ Peace to be holden at Ipswich within and for the County of Essex on the last Tuesdav of March ciurant The Petition of Humphrey Currier Humblv .Sliews That Having very lateh' heard that .Some persons \'iz one Thomas Bartlett and Others are design'd to Apply to this Court for a Ferry to be Kept over Merrimack River between the Towns of Newbury and Salisburv a little below .Almsburv- Ferr\- from Bartlets Co\'e to (iunners Point so called — He has to Object Thereto - P'irst, That the Town of Salisburw under whonie .Some of tiie Peti- tioners apply. Have no Right to (irant any Priviledge of a Ferry any- where over .Said River, Their Right being Civen or Conveyed to George Carr many years agoe. Whose Heirs now Claim tiiat priviledge which your petitioner .\p])rehends he can Make apjjear liad he opportunitv. 2i> That tile (Irani ot a Ferry in the ]jlace i)roposed would (ireatlv Injure the Ferry below. And your Petit' especially whose interest Ives in the Ferry at .\lmsbury. who flatters himself this Hon"' Court would not do anything to the |)rejudice of y' Ferry, already .Statetl where the Pub- lick Advantage will not Counterxail the Damage which will accrue thcrebv. BARTLETT'S COVE 241 3 Your Petit'- apprehends that he can make it appear that a ferry being kept in the place he has heard is proposed, will all things Considered be rather a Damage than Benefit. Therefore prays for the Reasons offered this Hon"i Court would either not Act upon this affair at present or Continue the Same Untill Their Petitioner has proper time to lay, what he has Justly further to offer, Before your Hon'^\ And vour Petif as in Duty bound Shall ever pray, &c. HUMPHERY CURKIKK. Almsburv, Mar: 30"' 1761. At the Court of General Sessions held at Ipswich March, I 76 1, the following order was entered upon the records: — On Reading the Petition of Edmund Bartlett & others Praying for another ferry on merrimack River as by the s'^ Petition on file — Ordered that Col" Choate, Col" Appleton & Col" Rogers be a Committee to in- quire into the Conveniency & Necessity thereof & how it will Effect the Neighboring Ferrys there and to inquire into the Title of the same ferrys and the conduct of the ferrymen, and make Report at the next Term and all at the Charge of the Petitioners. At the next term of the court the committee reported as follows : — The Committee apointed on the Petition of Edmund Bartlett and others praying for l|a|| ferry across merr||m||ck River from a litle below the house of || Joseph Page|| in Salisbery to about the midle of Bartletts Cove in Newbery, and allso to inquire how it will Effect the other fereys. in that neighbourhood, allso into the title of those fereys and how the ferey men behave. First giving notice to the Selectmen of both towns and others Consernd we have attended that Service, heard the partys, and begg leave to Report the following facts, viz : That by an ancient petition one || George || Carr preferred to the gen- erall Court many years Past Relating to the propertie he had in keeping fereys from the mouth of mermack River so fare vp as Holts Rocks we perceived that || he Claimed a right in & || title to keep all || Ferrys within those Limitts, but || his grant we Could gett no knoledge of. but ware informd that all the farey in that space are held under his title, and think that if a ferey was granted in the place petitioned for it ought to be done with Refrence to that titles if any such there be. With Respect to the behaveour of the present ferry men we heard no Complant Except y^ the keeper at Amsbery ferry dont give the Same attendance at Salisbery Point as he dose at Amsberey Shore. With Regard to the publick Nesestie and Convenence of a ferey at 2 42 OULD XEWBURY the place petetioiid for. we tind it would as things are now Surcum- stances very nnicli aComodate travlers at Certain sesons of the year and Especally in sum sorts of wether when the pasing at the other ferays are thareby made dilicult. Tho we find the place proposed not well aComodated with a good landing on the west Side and Sumthing dangrous from Sunken Rocks that lay a litle below the pasage way. But the Committee are apprehencive that if a fferey is granted and keept at this place at present it might so lessen and divide the pasangers to each boat or without a large ||r || fare then they are now alowed to take II it II would disorage and prevent a cherfull and good atandance at all of them. And that if a bridge was bult oure Powwaa River from Ams- bery to Salsbery Point it migh[t] well answer all the Ends of a ferey whare it is now Prayd for. and we ware told by Severil Gentilmen of Credet that they Poposed to go about bulding said bridge this Sumer. and did not much doubt but it would be done. One the whole we Report it as our opinion that any further proseed- ings about the proposed new ferey Idc deffered for twelve months to come, and that in the mean spaece the ferry man at amsbery ferey atend people too and from Sallsbery poind in the same manner as he dos those at Amsberey shore, giveing the prefferanc to him that comes tirst to be Cared over at all times when the wether will permettee. and that the s'' fereymen be allowed to take one qvarter more for his Carring Pasan- gers. hoses or goods to and from S'' Salsbury point then he is now allowd at amsbery Shore, all which is Submitted By ( per order of v^' John Lhoate -.' ^. ( Committee. The court issued the following" decree : — July. 1761, on Reading again the Petition of Edmund Bartlet >S: others for an other ferry over ^lerrymack River with the Report of the Committee appointed at the last Term to inquire into that matter. . . . It is thereupon Ordered that the Said Report be accepted and that all further Proceedings ab' the s^' Ferry be Deferred accordinglv. And that the Ferry men at Amesbury ferry be allowed to take one Quarter more for his attendance at Salislaury point as menf' in s'' Report. A plan showing the location of the proposed ferry was pre- pared !))• order of the petitioners and presented, with other l)ai)ers, at the July term of the court. This j^lan is on file in the office of the county comniissit)ners at Salem. It will be noticed, in the cop\- on page 238, that the road along the Salisbury shore, from Deer island to the mouth of the BAKTLETrS COVE 243 Powow River, is not marked or designated in any way, and was not probably in existence at that time. Another petition was presented at the Court of General Sessions held at Ipswich in March, 1771, and the following order entered upon the records : — On Reading the Petition of Joseph Page & others shewing that they have obtained the Approbation of the Towns of Salisbury & Xewbury for a Ferry over Merrimack River a little above a Place called Gunners' Point, on Condition of Licence from this Court, &c., as by s'^ Petition on File, & praying this Court to grant them such Licence, Ordered, that the s'^ Petitioners serve Humphry Currier, Richard Carr & James Carr with a Copy of said Petition. & notify them to appear at the next Term, to shew Cause, if any they have, why the Prayer thereof should not be granted. Evidently, some agreement was reached by the friends and opponents of the proposed new ferry ; and no further action was taken until 1789, when Joseph Swasey, of Newburyport, and John Webster, of Salisbury, presented the following petition : - — To the Hon^" the Justices of the Court of General Sessions of the Peace to be holden at Salem within and for the County of Essex on the second Tuesday of July. Anno Domini 1789: Your petitioners believe that it would be of very extensive convenience and utility to the citizens of this Commonwealth and others travelling from the southern and western parts of this Commonwealth into New Hampshire or the country east thereof, or passing the contrary route, that a ferry should be established over Merrimack River, at or near Jonathan Moulton's dwelling house in Newbury in said County, and from thence to the opposite side in Salisbury aforesaid. That the said ferry's being thus established would save to travellers passing that way a circuitous route of nearly one mile through a very bad piece of two rod road which is generally and necessarily encum- bered, for the greater part of it, with heaps of ship timber and plank, there being no less than six or seven shipyards adjoining said road, by means whereof, and of the business and labor done therein, the said road is frequently rendered almost impassible, and horses often frightened to such a degree as to endanger the lives of their riders. That the bridge in said road across the mouth of the Powow river is often out of repair, sometimes drawn up to admit vessels to pass, and at all times inconvenient and even dancrerous for horses and carriages. 2 44 OULD A-EWBURY That the liill on the Xewluuy side of Amesbury ferry is very steep and in the winter season so covered with ice as to render it ahiiost im- possible to ascend it witli carriages and teams, and hazardous to de- scend it at that season. ^'our Petitioners furtlier show that they are the proprietors of the huul on each side of tlie river where the Ferry is prayed to be estab- hshed ; that they will at their own cost immediately open a three rod way from the road leading to Amesbury Ferry through the land of the late Mrs. Barrett and put the same in good repair; that on the Salis- bury side there is a convenient landing place directly where the main post road from P^xeter, Portsmouth and the eastern country now falls into the river road at Salisbury Point, and that your Petitioners are readv to give bond with sufficient security for the faithful discharge of their trust and that there shall be constant attendance given with two good boats, one whereof shall be kept on each side of the river. Wherefore your Petitioners humbly pray your Honors that they may be licensed to keep a Ferry at the above described place. And as in duty bound shall ever pray, &c. Joseph Sw.\sev. John Wkhstkk. The court "ordered that the Hon'ble Stephen Choate, Ksq., John Patch, Esq., and John Choate, E.sq., be a Committee to enquire into the necessity and conveniency of said ferry, and they are to notify the inhabitants of the towns of Newbury, Salisbury, and Amesbury and the present occupiers of Ames- bury ferry of the time they shall appoint for viewing" the ferry pra)'d for and making the enquiry aforesaid, and they are to report as soon as ma)' be." At the ne.xt term of the court held at Salem, in September, 1789, Theojihilus Parsons and Theophilus l^radbury, att(M-ne)-s for Daxid Tu.xbur)', of Salisbiu"}', and his wite DorotliN', in her right, Daniel Ciu'rier, Jr., and Ezekiel Cunier, both of Ames- bury, jiroj^rietors of Amesbur}- feri)-. tiled a remonstrance, in which the)' state "that they and their predecessors ha\e been owners of .Amesbiu)' lerr)' lor near!)' one hundred \'ears," and that the proposed new feri)' is within eight)' rods of the one already established. The coiu't, liowe\ei", granted tlie pi'a)cr of the petitionei's ; and the clerk was chi'ccted to entei' ui)oii thi.' lecoi'ds tlie followinu' decree : — BARTLETTS COVE 245 On reading again the petition of Joseph Swasey and John Webster and the report of the Committee appointed last term to enquire into the necessity and convenience of said ferry, and after fully hearing the peti- tion, it is considered, adjudged, and ordered by the Court that Joseph Swasey and John Webster be licensed to keep a ferry over Merrimack River at or near Jonathan Moulton's dwelling house in Newbury in said county and from thence to the opposite side of said river in Salisbury, in said county, agreeable to the prayer of said petition, and that a ferry be there established. The rates of ferriage to be the same as at Ames- bury ferry, and the said Swasey and Webster are to keep two boats, one on each side of said river agreeable to said petition. When Washingtun visited Newburyport, Oct. 30, 1789, he \va.s taken the ne.xt. morning over thi.s new ferry to the Salisbury shore in a barge specially prepared for the occa- sion, and escorted as far as the boundary line of the State on his way to New Hampshire. Two years later active efforts were made by some of the inhabitants of Newburyport for the incorporation of the Essex- Merrimack Bridge Company, and John Webster sent to the General Court the following remonstrance now on file at the State House in Boston : — Salisbury. Jan^ i2"> 1792. The honourable the Senate, and the honourable the house of Repre- sentatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Petition of John Webster of Salisbury humbly sheweth That in the year 1789 he, in conjunction with Joseph Sweazy of Newbury- Port, had liberty granted them in legal forms to keep a Ferry over Merrimac River, at Websters-Point, commonly called the new or middle Ferry : Which has been kept accordingly, to the satisfaction of y public. And whereas a Bridge is petition^' for a little below, which, if granted, it is suppos'^ will annialate said Ferry. Though it is almost taken for granted that such a great obstruction in such a River, so in- jurious to all the numerous Towns, which lye upon or near it, in this State & New-hampshire, will never by your Wisdom be allow'', — yet to guard as well as I can against all events, — I would observe to your Honours that my expense has been very great in procuring & making Roads &-= toays at the landings, both sides of the River, & Boats for the convenience of all sorts of Passengers, with their Carriages of every Kind, not less than three hundred pounds, besides all my trouble. & turning me out of mv Channel of Business. 246 OCLD XKlVnCRY And that 1 have enjoyed it so little while, as to have had no profit by it as vet: lUit am still saddled with a heavy load on this account. All which 1 lio])'' in time might lie refunded with interest : But if taken from me <\: given to others, without a full comj^ensation. will he esteem'' \erv grievous. .And when your Honours consider the past expense & my reasonable future prosperity, by the growing of y country. I must pray that — in case said bridge is allowed to be built — such compensation mav be made, as in vour Wisdom shall seem fit. Which I trust cannot be small. And as in duty bound shall ever pray. cS:c. John Wehster. Notwilh.standing this remon.strancc an act of incorporation was granted Feb. 24, 1792, as will be seen by reference to the sketch descriptive of the Esse.x-Merrimack Bridge. The eighth section of the act of incorporation provides for the pa}'ment of certain specified claims, as follows : — Within one year after the said bridge shall be opened for passengers the Proprietors of said bridge shall pa}' to John Webster and Joseph Swasey and also to the town of Salisbury all such sums of monev as shall l)e respectivelv awarded to them or either of them bv three indiffer- ent men. mutually chosen by the parties, as a full compensation for anv injury sustained by them respectively by the erecting of said bridge. SAMUEL SEWALL, Chief Justice of the Province of Massachusetts Bay. Henry Sewall, born April 8, 1576, in Coventry, England, married Anne Hunt. He sent his son Henry to New England in 1634, and shortly after came over himself. He lived awhile in Newbury near the Lower Green ; but, when the meeting-house was removed to the new town in 1646, he sold his house and land, and removed to Rowley, where he died and was buried in March, 1656-7. Rev. Samuel Sewall, of Burlington, Mass., has given a full and interesting account of the Sewall family in a paper contributed to the American Quarterly Register for Februar)', 1 841. The dates and facts embodied in this brief sketch are taken mainly from that paper, and from the diary of Samuel Sewall, published by the Massachusetts Historical Society. Henry Sewall, Jr., son of the first mentioned Henry Sewall, was born in Coventry, England, in 16 14. He came to New England in 1634, bringing with him English ser- vants, neat cattle, and provisions. He was in Ipswich through the winter, and in 1635 removed to Newbury. He was one of the first settlers of the town, and was granted by the proprietors over six hundred acres of marsh and upland as his proportion, according to the rule agreed upon in London. He went on foot, with others, to Cambridge in May, 1637, and was made a freeman, in order that he might strengthen the friends of Governor Winthrop against Sir Henry Vane. March 25, 1646, he married Miss Jane Dummer, eldest child of Stephen and Alice Dummer, of Newbury, and soon after went to England with them, where he remained se\-eral years. He had five children born in that country, hi 1650, 248 OULD XEWBUKY he returned to Xew I\ni;iand alone ; and August 5th of that year he bouglit of Kdward Woodman, of Newbury, forty acres of upland, with house and barn thereon, situate in Newbury, and "bounded with ye land of AT lulward Rawson & John Pemberton on the northwest, y common on y southwest, next to the swamp commonly called the Aspen Swamp, also y' street goiui;' down to .AsjK'n Swamp on the southeast side, and ten acres of meadow . . . on Merrimack River in New- bury aforesaid, bounded with the upland of Air. Rawson on the south & on the east, on the west bounded by a creek comini;' out of Merrimack river"; also twenty acres of salt marsh, bought of Mr. Richard Uummer ; also twenty acres more of marsh in Newbury toward Plum Island Ri\-er (Ips- wich Deeds, book i, page 6"^ (212). The f(.)rty acres of upland, with house and barn thereon, was on the westerly side of Toppan's Lane, and extended to High Street, as will be seen by reference to the following items from the will of I lenry Sewall, dated April 17, 1678, and proved May 24, 1700 : — I give to my sonne in law Jacob Topan and my daughter Hannali Topan, his wife, si.xteen acres of land, be it more or less, whereon his house now standeth according as it lyes allready bounded, being a part of the forty acres purchased of M"" Woodman, during their natural lives. To son John Seawall house, barne, and land, 24 acres formerly pur- chased of AP Woodman, which I lately lived in and now my said son John liveth in for his life ; also 20 acres salt marsh next ox common I purchased of AF Woodman, also use of 12 acres of fresh meadow pur- chased of George Little : the remainder of my estate to the heirs of my body, and in case of failure of issue to mv grandson, .Samuel Toppan. second son of my daughter, flannah Toppan. It is [)robable that Henry Sewall occupied the house in Woodman's Lane, as it was then called, tor a year or two, and then retiu"ned to ICngland. He came again to Newbury in 1659, and afterward sent for his wife and family. They arrived in 1661. Meanwhile he puichased, No\-. 7, 1660, of John IJrowiK', of Newbur)', glazier, a house with tour acres of land in Newbury, formerl\- owned b)- Ilenr\' Travers, "bounded with the streets on the south and east, the land of S.-l MUKL SE IV A LL 249 Richard Browne on the west, and Tristram Coffin's land on y north," also shop and new shop lately built and floored (Ipswich Deeds, book 2, paj^e 16 (28). This lot of land was on the northerly corner of Parker Street and the country road, now High Street. Henry Sewall, with his family, resided in the old house several years. He afterward built on the northwesterly end of this land on Parker Street a new house a few rods from the residence of Rev. James Noyes and Rev. Thomas Parker. There he lived for many years ; and there he died May 16, 1700, aged eighty-six. He was buried in the graveyard near the Upper Green in Newbury. The stone that marks his last resting-place bears the following inscription : — 250 ■ OULD NEWBURY Mr. Henr\- Sewall (sent by Mr. Henry Sewall. his father, in v^ ship Elsabeth & Dorcas Cap' Watts, commander) arrived at Boston 1634. winterd at Ipswich, helpd begin this plantation 1635. furnishing English servant", neat cattel, & provisions. Married Mr" Jane Dummer. March y« 25. 1646. died May. y^ 16. 1700. /Etat 86. His frutfull vine being thus disjoind. fell to y ground January y [3 following. .-Etat 74. Psal. 27 : 10. In the diary of Samuel Sewall, under date of i\Iay 17. 1700, is the following entry : — l>enj. Moss jun'' is sent to me to acquaint me that my dear P\-\ther died the evening before. May 18"' ride to Newbury in the Rain: when breaks up. Bro'' and Sister come from Salem. Bury mv Father. Bearers. Col. Peirce. Mr. Xich. Xoves. Mr. .Sam. Plumer. Mr. Tristram Coffin, Major Danl. Davison. Major Thomas Xoyes. had S under- bearers. Sabbath. May [9. Mr. Tapan in the afternoon preach"d a funeral Sermon from Prov. 19. 20, Said my Father was a true Nathanael. Rev. Christopher Toppan, D. D., was pastor of the First Church in Newbury, having been ordained Sept. 9, 1696. The early New England settlers did not consider religious e.xercises or ceremonies necessary or even desirable at a funeral. They carried their kindred or friends solemnly and reverently to the burial-place, and stood silently by while the grave was filled. They could not encourage or assist in a service that seemed to confirm "the popish error that prayer is to be used over the dead or for the dead." Ne\-ertheless, Samuel Sewall, in his diary, gi\es the sub- stance of a tender and touching address delixered at the grave of his mother, that exidently came from a heart over- flowing with kindness and affection. His account of her death and burial reads as follows: — Janry 14"' iXg^? Having been certified last night about 10. oclock of the death of my dear Mother at Xewlnuy. Sam. and I set out with John Sewall. the Messenger, for that place. Hired horses at Charlestown : set out about 10 oclock in a great Fogg. Dined at Lewis's with .Mr. Gushing of Salisbury. Sam and I kept on in Ipswich Rode. John went to accompany Bro'' from Salem. .About Mr. Hubbard"s in Ipswicii SAMUEL SEW ALL 251 farms, they overtook us. Sam. and I lodged at Compton's in Ipswich. Bro'' and John stood on for Newbury by Moonshine. Jan-^ 15"! Sam and I set forward. Brother Northend meets us. Visit Aunt Northend. Mr. Payson. With Bro'' and sister we set forward for Newbury : where we find that day apiointed for the F'uneral : twas a very pleasant Com- fortable day. Bearers, Jno Kent of the Island, L' Cutting Noyes, Deacon William Noyes, Mr. Peter Tappan, Capt. Henry Somersby, Mr. Joseph Wood- bridge. I followed the Bier single. Then Bro'' Sewall and sister Jane, Bro' Short and his wife, Bro'' Moodey and his wife, Bro'' Northend and his wife, Bro'' Tapan and sister Sewall, Sam, and cous Haiiah Tapan, Mr. Payson of Rowley, Mr. Clark, Minister of Excester. were there, Col. Peirce, Major Noyes, &c., Cous John. Richard and Betty Dumer. Went abt 4 P.M. Nathan! Brickett taking in hand to fill the Grave, I said. Forbear a little, and suffer me to say that amidst our bereaving sorrows We have the Comfort of beholding this Saint put into the rightfuU pos- session of that Happiness of Living desired and dying Lamented. She lived comendably Four and Fifty years with her dear Husband, and my dear Father : and she could not well brook the being divided from him at her death : which is the cause of our taking leave of her in this place. She was a true and constant Lover of God's Word, Worship and Saints : And she always, with a patient cheerfulness, submitted to the divine Decree of providing Bread for herself and others in the sweat of her Brows. And now her infinitely Gracious and Bountiful Master has promoted her to the Honor of higher Employments, fully and absolutely discharged from all maher of Toil and Sweat. My honoured and be- loved Friends and Neighbours, My dear Mother never thought much of doing the most frecjuent and homely ofiices of Love for me : and lavish'd away many Thousands of Words upon me, before I could re- turn one word in Answer : And therefore I ask and hope that none will be offended that I have now ventured to speak one word in her behalf ; when shee herself is become speechless. Made a Motion with my hand for the filling of the Grave. Note : I could hardly speak for passion and Tears. Mr. Tappan prayed with us in the evening. The will of Henry Sewall, on file at the Probate Office in Salem, Mass., is quite long, and disposes of a large amount of real estate and personal property in Newbury, New England, and also houses and lands in Hants, Coventry, and Warwick counties, England. To his wife, Jane Sewall, he gives 252 OULD NEWBURY £\o vearlv, for Hlt life, by mv son. .Samuel .Seawall, and the rent of the farm in the occupation of Joseph (ioodridge, containing about 105 acres, during her widowhood, also the house new built wc'' now I dwell in. with \^ acres lying below the hill, and the barn, orchard. lKic. for her life : also the u.se of 2 acres of salt marsh, part of the 20 acres purchased of M' Woodman: »S: 2 acres of .Meadow, part of the 12 acres purchased of (ieorge Little in birchen meadow. Allso I give to my sayd sonne Stephen, during his natural! life, two acres & an halfe of land (after the acre & halfe lying to my now dwell- ing house t.^ above disposed of is measured out), be it more or less. . . . after him to his heire or heirs of his body begotten or to be begotten. & for want of such issue to my sonne John .Seawall, his heires & Assigns for ever. To son Samuel .Seawall the house, barn. & land given to my wife. after her decease, and also houses and land in Coventry. England, evi- dences of which are in the hands of Mr. Tukky of Warwick. Samuel Sewall was the eldest son of Henry and Jane Dumnier Sewall. He was born at Bishop Stoke, Hampshire, England, March 28, 1652. He came to Newbury, New England, \\\th his mother in 1661, and was placed under the tuition oi Rev. Thomas Parker, with whom he continued six years, until his admission to Harvard College. He graduated in 1 67 1, and received the degree of Master of Arts in 1674. He was married Feb. 25, 1675-6, by Governor Bradstreet, to Miss Hannah Hull, daughter and sole heir of John Hull, I'^scj., a goldsmith and merchant of l^oston. In 1652, and for several years afterward, Mr. Hull was master of the mint in the colony. He coined the celebrated New England six- pences and shillings, and acquired great wealth. Samuel Sewall was chosen one of the assistants of the council in 1684, 1685, and 1686. He was a member of the Boston Artillery Company, and was elected captain in Ma\-, 1686. In his (liar)-, under date of June 11, i6,S6, he wrote as follows : — Waited on the Council, took the oath of allegiance and rec'd mv new commission for Capt. Was before at a privat Fast at Deacon .Allen's: so Capt. Hr.tchinson and I went about 5 o'clock and all the rest were sworn, Capt. Hutchinson at jM-esent refuses. I read the Oath nnself holding the book in my Lett hand, and holding up m\ Right Hand to 1 leaven. SAMUEL SEW A LI. 253 The editor of the Diary, in a foot-note, says, This matter of holding up the hand in taking an oath, as opposed to the English custom of holding up the Bible or kissing it, became very soon one of the trivial but irritating cjuestions in dispute between the colonists and the Andros faction. Judge Sewall says, under date of April 25, 1688 : — I went to (lOV Bradstreet to enquire about the custom of swearing in New England: He told me that of lifting up the Hand had been the Ceremony from the begining: that He and Some others did so swear on board the ship 1630. and that he never knew an Oath admin- istered any other way after he came on Shoar. Some of the items noted in the Diary and Letter Book have a pecuHar local interest. The following paragraph, re- lating to the navigation of Plum Island River, will be appre- ciated by those who have had the misfortune to fall aground at Sandy beach when the tide has just begun to ebb : — April 5. 1 69 1, at night, about 12 or i, set sail in the Prudent Mary, Bark. Daniel Lunt master, for Newbury; saiFd through Squam. so to Ipswich Bar and Newbury Sound. Mrs. Hannah Moody and Jane Toppan with me : fell aground at Sandy Beach an hour bv Sun, April 6*1'. March 28, 1723, Judge Sewall wrote to Mr. John Boydell in London, private secretary to Governor Shute, as follows : — Mr. Daniel Rogers of Ipswich. Justice of Peace, and Register to Col. Appleton, left his life something tragically the last winter. He went from home on Friday the last of November, to Hampton: and was returning on Saturday the first of Dcember : Dined with Mr. Cush- ing of Salisbury: and then proceeded in his Journey towards Newbury: but went out of his way to the left hand, and went down to the Sea : and was maroond and bewilder'd upon the Beach and Marishes, and at last benighted. That Saturday night there was a great Gust of wind with Snow and Hail, whereby a vessel in Merrimack River was driven down: Her Anchors Could not hold her. But near a ledge of Rocks, on Salis- bury side, called the Black Rocks, the Anchors held again. They put out two Anchors in the Stern ; and 'tis conjectured Mr. Rogers saw the Light, and attempted to wade over Black Rock Cove, to get to it: but 2 54 OULD XEIVBCRY he sunk fast, and the rising Tide overwhehn'd and drowned iiim. Though his Horse and Cane were found, and hundreds sought after him. vet he was not found till January 14"' by a Guher accidentally. He was then conveyed to Ipswich, and there buried with his honoral^le ancestors, much lamented (Letter Book, volume 2, page 147). Under the [)r()\-incial charter i;ranted in 1691, Samuel Sewall wa.s nominated for the coimcil, and was annually chosen until 1725, when he declined to serve longer. As one of the assistants, imder the colonial charter, he was also, ex ojficio, a judge of the superior coiu't. In 1692, under the provincial charter, he was appointed one of the judges of a special court for the trial of persons charged with witch- craft. Nineteen persons were at different times tried, con- demned, and executed. Judge Sewall soon became convinced that innocent men and women had been unjustly accused and condemned, and often expressed deep regret, penitence, and himi illation for the part he had taken in causing them to suffer the extreme penalty of the law. At a public fast, Jan. 14, 1696-7, he presented to Rev. Air. W'illard, his minister, a note which was read to the congregation assembled in the Old South Church, Boston, he standing up while Mr. W'illard read it, and bowing in token of assent when he had done. The note is printed in full in the Diary, and reads as follows : — Copy of the Bill I put up on the Fast Day: giving it to Mr. W'illard as he pass'd by, and standing up at th-e reading of it, and bowing when finished; in the Afternoon. Samuel .Sewall, sensible of the reiterated strokes of Cod upon him- self and family : and being sensible, that as to the Guilt contracted upon the opening of the late Comission of Oyer and Terminer at Salem (to which the order for this Dav relates) he is. upon manv accounts, more concerned than any that he knows of. Desires to take the Blame and shame of it; Asking pardon of men. And especially desiring pravers that (iod, who has an Unlimited Authority, would pardon that sin. and all other his sins, personal and Relative: And according to his infinite Benignity, and .Sovereignty, .\ot visit the sin of him. or anv other upon himself or any of his. nor upon the Land : lUit that he would ]K)wer- fuUy defend him against all Temptations to Sin. for the future, and vouchsafe him the efficacious, saving Conduct of his Word and Sjiirit. SAMUEL SEW ALL 255 Although he condemned himself in this public manner for sins committed, he still retained the confidence of his friends and associates. Under the provincial charter he was chosen Dec. 6, 1692, one of the judges of the superior court. In 1 718, he was appointed chief justice of the province, and retained his seat on the bench until 1728. In his diary he wrote, Dec 30, 1 702, I was vveigh'd in Col. Byfiekrs Scales : weight One Hundred One Half One Quarter wanting 3 pounds, i.e., 193 Pounds Net. Col. Bytield weighed Si.xty three pounds more than I : had only my close coat on. The Lord add or take away from this our corporeal weight, so as shall be most advantageous for our Spiritual Growth. July 31, I 72 1 (In Margin) I weighed 228^ p cous. Sami Sewall's Scales. His first wife died Oct. 19, 171 7. For his second wife he married, Oct. 29, 17 19, Abigail, daughter of Jacob Melyen, who had been married twice before ; namely, to James Woodmansey and William Tilley. She died May 26, 1 720. A year later, while he was still a widower, he wrote the following letter to Rev. Timothy Woodbridge, of Hartford, Conn., dated June i, 1721: — I remember when I was going from school at Newbury, I have some- times met your Sisters, Martha and Mary, at the end of Mrs. Noyes's Lane, coming from their Schoole at Chandler's Lane, in their Hanging Sleeves : and have had the pleasure of Speaking with them : and I could find in my heart to speak with Mrs. Martha again, now I myself am reduc'd to my Hanging Sleeves. The truth is, I have little occasion for a Wife, but for the sake of Modesty and to cherish me in my ad- vanced years (I was born March 28, 1652) Methinks I could venture to lay my Weary head in her Lap, if it might be brought to pass upon Honest Conditions. You know your Sister's Age, and Disposition, and Circumstances, better than I doe. I should be glad of your Advice in my Fluctuations. ^- ^• Mrs. Noyes' Lane is now Parker Street, Newbury ; and Chandler's Lane is Federal Street, Newburyport. Hanging sleeves were made to be put on and taken off as a separate article of dress. They were usually suspended from the shoulder, and often trimmed with lace and ribbon. They SAMUEL SEWALL. SAMUEL SEIVALL 257 were worn b}' both men and women as ornamental over-sleeves. Alice Morse Earle, describing the costume of colonial times, says the words were used to designate the dress of a child ; and, in the above letter, Judge Sewall undoubtedly intends to convey the idea of second childhood by the phrase " now I myself am reduc'd to my Hanging Sleeves." According to this usage, a girl " still in hanging sleeves " was a mere child, dependent upon others for the comforts and enjoyments of life. What answer Rev. Timothy W'oodbridge returned to this letter, or how his sister Martha, daughter of Rev. John Woodbridge and widow of Samuel Ruggles, received the message, if it was communicated to her, is uncertain. Evi- dently, the negotiations were unsatisfactory ; for Samuel Sewall married for his third wife, March 29, 1722, Mary, daughter of Henry Shrimpton, and widow of Robert Gibbs. He had no children by the last two wives. For more than thirty years Samuel Sewall was a member of the council. He was urged to serve longer, but declined on account of ill-health. His letter of declination reads as follows : — To the Hon'''*' William Dumer Esq. &c. and to the Hon'''^ the Council. June, 4"' i 725. May It Please Your Honour. — I was yesterday surprised with the great and undeserved Respect shewed me by your ¥iO\v and the Hon''''- Board, in calling me to Coun- cil by the hon'''*^' William Tailer Esq'', Benjamin Lynde Esq., and Ad- dington Davenport Esqr. And forasmuch as I am unable to Come, I esteemed it my bounden Duty to send m\- Answer in Writing. I have under the present charter served this Province Three and Thirty years, I hope, faithfully. I pray (iod pardon my Unfaithfull- ness. I have been elected Three and Thirty Times : I cannot but wonder at the Constanc)' of the Electors ! This year, a Time of War. I find myself under an insuperable Indis- position to serve, especially considering my enfeebled state of Health ; the other publick Employments lying upon me, and very weighty Busi- ness of a more personal concern necessarily requiring my diligent Atten- tion. I therefore humbly pray that my Recess may be taken in good part ; and that my seeking the Shade, in my weary Circumstances may 258 OULD XEWBCRY be favoral)lv indulged. Praying (iod to assist and prosper your Honor, the Hon''''' lioard. and the whole General Court. I take leave to subscribe mvself your Honons most humble, and most obedient Servant Samuel Sewall. I got Mr. (lerrish to write it out fair, and carry it to the Council Chamber, between 1 o and i \ oclock iiianc* Judge Sewall died Jan. i, 1730, and was buried in the tomb of his father-in-law, John Mull, in the (jranary bur)-ing ground in Boston. In a sketch of the life and character of Judge Sewall, pub- lished in the American Quarterly Register, February, 1841, Rev. Samuel Sewall says, — Judge Sewall's principles in religion were strictly Calvinistic and Con- gregational. He was warmly attached to that system of faith, and to those forms of worship and government in the church, which were em- braced and practised by the Puritan settlers of New England. Occa- sionally he employed his pen in their illustration and defence : and was strongly opposed to all innovations in doctrine, as well as very jealous of any ceremonies or usages in divine service that savored of prelacy or were of human invention. And yet he abhorred persecution; did not confine religion or his charity to persons of his own denomination ; and could be candid and forbearing to men who, while they conformed to the generally received standards of Congregationalism both in doctrine and church government, manifested occasionally some difference of re- ligious sentiment : or who. on account of some novelties in their modes of worship and discipline, were regarded, for a season at least, with aversion and suspicion by the great body of the people. With many Episcopalians, for instance, he lived on terms of intimacv and friend- ship, though, from conscientious objections to the burial otifice, he would seldom, if ever, enter the church at their funerals. And, though he had a strong dislike to prelacy and the book of common prayer, yet he would speak of individual bishops in terms of great respect and commenda- tion, and lield portions of that standard of conformity in public worship in high reverence and esteem. Among the last authors whom he ap- pears to have read or consulted were Bishops Jewell and Pearson; and one of his last efforts on iiis dying-bed was to repeat that favorite formula of belief in the Episcopal service, the Apostl&s" Creed. There are sex'eral good portraits of Judge Sewall in exist- ence. Miss Henrietta Ix Kiclgeway, of Boston, the sixth in * l.i-tlLT I'ldcil;, Miluinc 2, I'agc 1S3. SAMUEL SEIVALL 259 descent from Samuel Sewall, Jr. (son of Judge Sewall), has in her possession the original painting from which the photo- engraving accompanying this sketch was taken. The canvas measures four feet by six, and the picture is evidently the work of an accomplished artist. Other portraits similar in style and workmanship are owned by Mr. Samuel Sewall, of Burlington, Mass., and by Dr. Daniel D. Gilbert, of Dorchester, Mass. A copy of one of these old portraits hangs in the library of the new court- house at Salem. •^1 THE TOPPAN HOUSE. Toppan's Lane, or Street, as it is now called, was probably laid out previous to Aug. 5, 1650. On that day Edward Woodman sold to Henry Sewall forty acres of upland, with house and barn thereon (Ipswich Deeds, book i, page 68 (212). In the conveyance of a portion of this land to Jacob Toppan, twenty years later, the lane is called Woodman's Lane, and is evidently the same way or street that, in the first-mentioned deed, is said to lead down to the Aspen Swamp. The house now standing on this lot of land was built by Jacob Toppan at or about the time of his marriage to Hannah Sewall, daughter of Henry Sewall. Among the interesting papers and documents in the possession of the Historical Society of Old Newbury is the original contract or agree- ment providing for the transfer of this land. Apparently, only one of the contracting parties signed this agreement ; and for this reason, probably, it was not acknowledged before a justice of the peace or recorded with other important papers at Ipswich. It reads as follows : — This Indenture made the twentieone of June One thousand Six hun- dred and Seventie. Between Mr. Henry (and his wife Jane) Sewall. on the one partie. And Jacob Toppan. of Newbury, on the other partie Witnesseth that the -sayd Henry Sewall for and in consideration of a' marriage (by God"s Grace) intended & shortly to be had and solemnized between the said Jacob Toppan and Hannah, the daughter of the said Henry and Jane Sewall. and other considerations: him the sayd Henry Sewall moving thereunto : hath Given. Granted. Assigned, and Con- firmed, and by these presents doth give, grant, assigne. and confirms fully, clearly, and absolutely unto the sayd Jacob and Hannah a certain parcel or tract of land, lying, situate, and being in Newbury aforesaid. 202 OULD NEWBURY at the iK)rthcrly end of his liouse-lott : as this day staked out. l)v Abra- ham Toppan himself and the sayd Jacob Toppan. conteyning sixteen acres, be it more or less, bounded or abutting easterly by a Lane called Woodman's Lane. Southerly by his the Sa\-d Henrv Sewalls own land. Westerly by .some Land of Will Alillburies Q) and Will or Caleb Moody's, and Xorthernly by the countrie highway. To Have And To Hold the sayd sixteen acres of land, be it more or less, with all and every the Trees, fences, priviledges. liberties, and appurtenances thereto belonging. ... In Witness whereof the saj-d Henry Sewall hath hereunto set his hand and seale and the sayd Jacob Toppan also interchangeably the twentie first day of June one thousand six hundred and seventie. Sealed and delivered in presence of Jacob Toppax. Samuel Sewall. Although the "sixteen acres of land, more or less, on Woodman's Lane," were not legally conveyed by the incom- plete agreement quoted above, it is evident from the follow- ing clause, taken from the will of Henry Sewall, dated Aug. 17, 1678, and proved May 24, 1700, that Jacob Toppan built a house there previous to 1678 : — I give to my sonne in law, Jacob Topan, & my daughter. Hannah Topan. his wife, sixteen acres of land, be it more or less, whereon his house no7o staiidetJi. as it lyes already bounded, being a part of the forty acres purchased of Mr. Woodman, during their natural lives : . . . and after their decease I give both the upland and meadow to the heire or heirs begotten or to be begotten of the bodv of mv savd daughter. Hannah Topan, &c. Abraham Toppan, father of Jacob Toppan, also made a conveyance of real estate on the twenty-first day of June, 1670. The original deed is in the j^ossession of the Newbtuy Historical Society. An e.xact co\>y may be found in the Esse.x Registry of Deeds (Ipswich .Series, book 3. page 157 (118). It reads as follows : — To all people to whom tliis present writing shall come to be read or understood know yee : that I, Abraham Toppan of Newbury in ve county of Essex in N: L: yeoman, in consideration of a marriage shortly l)y (lod's mercy to be solemnized between my son Jacol> and Hannah, ye daughter of Mr. Henry Sewall of .\cw])urv aforesaid : and for otlier good just causes and considerations me thereunto moving THE TOPPAN HOUSE 263 Have Given, Granted. Assigned. Made over, Conveyed and Confirmed either one half part or moity of my home lot, consisting of 26 acres of Orchard, plow-ground & pasture land. \vt ye one half of all my other Lands dividend, meadow & marish in Newbury aforesaid, wt ye cleare half of all ye liberties, priviledges and appertinances to ye same belong- ing, wt one half of ye barn & outhouses which were in my possession ye 30 day of July. 1661 : or ye full value of ye premises aforementioned into ten shillings ; wt my hay lot by me purchased at plum-island of Richard Dole & other estate, goods & chattels, wt my dwelling-house as expressed in my will, signed and sealed in presence of Mary Lunt, Joseph Hills & Henry Sewall. bearing date ye 20 day of June, 1670; as in my said will is more at large expressed : ... in witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and scale ye 21 of June 1670. And in ye twenty second yeare of our sovereign Lord Charles ye 11. . by ye grace of God, of England, Scotland. France & Ireland King. Defender of ye faith, &c. , , ^, , ,. , Abraha.ai Toppax. Sealed Ov: delivered m ve presence ot Mary Lunt Hexry Sewall Joseph Hill.s June 22nd, 1670. Abraham Toppan did acl■ rA-y side of Migh Street, extending from the lot where the meet- ing-house was erected to Muzzey's Lane (now known as Marl- borough Street), with dwelling-house, barn, and outbuildings thereon. Jul}' 30, 1 66 1, he conveyed to his son Peter one-half of this land, house, barns, etc., by a deed recorded in Ipswich Series, book 3, page 159 (119). This deed also pro\ides that, after the decease of the testator and his wife Susanna, the other half of this estate shall become the property of "the said Peter Toppan." Abraham Toppan died Nov. 5, 1672, aged sixty-four. His children were as follows : — Peter, born in England in 1634; married, April 3, 1661. Jane, daughter of Christopher Batt, of Boston. Elizabeth, born in England: married Samuel Alighill. of Kowley, March 21, ^C^S7■ Abraham, born in Newbury in 1644: married Ruth, daughter of John Pike ; died (leaving no issue) in 1704. Jacob, born in Newbury in 1645 - married Hannah Sewall. daughter of Henry Sewall. Susanna, born in Newbury June 13, 1649. John, born in Newbury April 23, 1651 ; married, tirst, Martha Browne Sept. I, 1 68 1, and, second. Mrs. Ruth Heard in 171 7. Isaac, born in Newbury; married, first, Hannah Kent Sept. 2(;. 1669, and, second, Mary March, March 27, 1691. In the will of Abraham Tojipan, dated June 20, 1670, and proved March 25, 1673, there is a clause which reads as follows : — Yet forasmuch as my son Jacol) is shortly by God's permission to enter marriage with Hannah, the daughter of AP Henry and Jane Sewall, and to live in the house with myself and wife, >S:c.. as long as my wife iS; self live. . . . my full mind and desire is that mv son Peter be content to let fall his claymc unto the other half ])art of the housing, lands, and other the ];remises before expressed, menconed in the savd, covenant to the end my son Jacob mav inherit the same. Some complications ami disagreements seem to ha\e re- sulted from this attem|)l to annul the deed of conxeyance made in 1661. When the will was presented for probate, THE TO PP. AN HOUSE 265 Peter Toppan filed a caveat, stating " that my deare ffather Abraham Toppan did give unto me one half his estate, . . . and put me (or us) in possession of the other half in some sort by our making use of it together with them soe long as we dwelt together." There are also several depositions of personal friends and relatives who testify to certain facts and circumstances connected with the first conveyance of the property to Peter Toppan. It is somewhat uncertain how the question of ownership was finally settled ; but appear- ances seem to indicate that Peter Toppan retained possession of the old homestead. In the^, records of the town of New- bury, under date of July 8, 169^, is the following entry : — Whereas Dr. Peter Toppan hath fenced in a part of the highway between the meeting house and Aluzzie's Lane, the town do desire and appoint the men hereafter named to be a committee to find where the bounds of s'' Dr. Toppan"s land is. at his charges, and to bring report to the town at their next meeting concerning the way 'against said land between it and Merrimack river. Ye persons appointed for s'^ committee are Coll Daniel Pierce, Esq., Major Davidson, Esc[.. Capt. Henry Somerby, Corporal George Merrill & Henry Short. Meanwhile the house in Toppan's Lane had been built, and was occuj^ied by a large and growing family. Jacob Toppan, son of Abraham Toppan, married Hannah Sewall Aug. 24, 1670. Their children were as follows : — Jacob, born May 20, 1671 : married Sarah Kent. Samuel, born Sept. 30, 1672; died Aug. 18, 1691. Jane, born Sept. 28, 1674. John, born Jan. 29, 1677; married Judith Moody. Hannah, born March 4, 1679. Elizabeth, born Dec. 20, 1680: married Cutting Xoyes. Abraham, born June 29, 1684; married Esther Wigglesworth. daughter of Rev. Michael Wigglesworth. Anne, born Alay 16, 1686; married Nathaniel Rolfe. Judge Samuel Sewall says in his diary, under date of Aug. 19, 1 69 1, with reference to the illness of Samuel Toppan, — Sent Jane to Xewburv bv Tim" Burbenk to help tend her Brother Sam. Toppan, who is there taken ill of the Small Pocks. 2 66 OULD NEWBURY And under date of i\ugust 28, l^'iida}', he writes of his death as follows : — Fast at Charlestown where I am. After mv coming home, when tis almost dark. Jane Toppan comes in from Newbury and brings the very sorrowfull News of the death of Cous. Sam Toppan last Tuesday night about nine of the clock; buried the Wednesday night following because of the Heat. No minister with him : Mr. Shove prayd not with him at all. went not to him till was Just dying; .Suppose might be afraid "s school. Samuel Toppan was only nineteen years of age at the time of his death. Mr. Shove was undoubtedly his teacher. It is evident from this brief extract from Judge Sewall's diary that Mr. Shove's conduct on this occasion was not looked upon with api:)roval, and that he was expected in case of sickness, however dangerous or contagious it might be, to visit the suf- fering pupil, and offer him spiritual food and consolation. That his labors were onerous and his compensation exceed- ingly meagre is apparent from the following vote, passed at a general town meeting held in May, 1691 : — Tlie town grants Mr. Seth Shove thirty pounds for the vear ensuing, provided he will Ije our schoolmaster and so forth as followeth : namely, to teach readers free, Latin scholars sixpence per week, writers and cypherers fourpence per week, to keep the school one third part of the 'year at the middle of the new towne, one third part at the school house, and the other third part about middle way between the meeting house and old town ferry. Judge Sewall often mentions " l^rother Jacob Toppan and sister Hannah Topjian " in his diary. He was a frequent visitor at the house in Toppan's Lane, and often lodged there for a night. In 1701, on his way from Exeter and Ports- mouth to Ipswich, Salem, and lioston, under date of Jul)- 12, he says : — Bairsto and I alone goe to Newl)ury l)ctime. over Carr's bridge. Dine at Ijro'' ToiKins. visit .Arcii. Woodman: Lodge at sister C.errishes. The bridge to which reference is made in the aboxe tiuota- tion was the floating bridu,e that has been describeil in con- THE TOPPAN HOUSE 267 nection with Carr's Ferry, and was the only route by which travellers could reach Newbury from the east. John Sewall, brother of Judge Sewall and Hannah Toppan, lived near the Toppan house in Toppan's Lane. He died Aug. 8, 1699. Hannah Toppan died Nov. 11, 1699; and Jacob Toppan married, for his second wife, Mrs. Hannah Tessenden Sewall, widow of John Sewall. The pleasant and friendly relations that existed between the families of Jacob Toppan and Judge Sewall were not interrupted by this event, and the interchange of hospitalities occurred with even more frequency during the next ten or fifteen years. In his diary. Judge Sewall often notes the arrival in Boston of some member of " brother Jacob Top- pan's family" ; and many of the references in that journal to Newbury contain items of local interest, like the following : — May 12, 1 716, Go to Ram Island with Bro"" Topan and Capt. Green- lef. Dine at Brc Topan's. Visit my Relations. Jacob Toppan died Dec. 30, 171 7, aged seventy-three. His widow died April 4, 1723. The house in which he lived is still standing, and has remained in the possession of his lineal descendants from the day of his death to the present time. MILL AT THE MOUTH OF ARTICHOKE RIVER. John Emery was born in England Sept. 29, 1598. He sailed from Southampton April 3, 1635, with his wife and children, accompanied by his brother Anthony Emery and family, and arrived in Boston June 3, 1635. A few weeks later he came to Newbur)', and was granted half an acre of land at the Lower Green for a house lot. He was made a freeman in 1641, and in 1642 his name appears in the list of ninety-one proprietors who are " acknowledged to have proportionable rights in all the common and undivided land within the limits of the town." Under date of Dec. 18, 1645, Coffin, in his History of Newbur}', sa}'s a committee of se\'en men were appointed to make arrangements for the construction of a grist-mill in the town ; and this committee agreed to give John Emery and Samuel Scullard ^20 in merchantable pay, with ten acres of upland and six acres of meadow, and also to make the mill free from all taxes for the first seven years, and a freehold to them and their heirs forever, provided they would agree on their part " to set up said mill between Nicholas Holt's point and Edward Woodman's bridge ready for the towne's use to grind the town's grists at or before the twenty ninth of September, 1646." Notwithstanding the urgent need of a grist-mill in that locality, and the liberal offer made in behalf of the town, the conditions of the proposal were not complied with, and the mill was not built until thirty years later. May 18, 1647, the town granted John Emery about three acres of land in the vicinity of Old Town Hill, reserving twenty rods for a "burying place." This lot of land is still 270 OL'LD XEIVBURY known as the " Emery Lot," and is more fully described in the preceding pages in connection with the settlement at the Lower (jreen. In 1663, he was presented to the court at Ipswich for en- tertaining travellers and Quakers. From the evidence sworn to by several witnesses it appears " y' two men quakers w' en- tertained \-ery kindly to bed and table, & John Emmerie shok y'" by ye hand and bid y"' welcome." Also "that the witness heard John Emery and his wife say that he had entertained quakers and that he would not put them from his house, and used arguments for the lawfulness of it." He was fined ^4 and cost of court. He died Nov. 3, 1683. John Emery, Jr., was born in England about 162S, and came to Newbury with his father in 1635. Ii"* the town records, under date of April 10, 1644, is the following state- ment : — There was laid out unto John Emery, junior, four score akers of upland, bee it more or lesse. joyneing unto Alerrimacke river on the north and running from the mouth of Artichoke river unto a marked tree by a swamp on the northwest corner, being about one liundred and thirty two rods long at the head of the cove, thence about an hundred rods to the Southwest Corner, thence running on a strait lyne about an hundred and fifty six rods to Artichoke river on the east about eighty rods broad. Rev. Rufus lunery, in his genealogy of the Emery family, says : — Forty acres of this land was a grant of the town of Newbury to John Emery, Senior, and by him given to his son in consideration of love and affection. The remaining forty acres were bought of Archelaus Wood- man for thirty i)ounds, l^eing a town grant to him. This land has remained iu the possession of the descend- ants of John luiiery from 1644 to the present time. It is now owned by Mrs. Mary Hale Emery, widow of Rev. Samuel hjnery, U. D., and daughter of the late Eliphalet Emer)', of West Newbury. John I'jner)', Jr., uiarried, (^ct. 2, 1648, Mary Webster, daughter of John and Mary Webster, and probabl)" built the MILL AT THE MOUTH OF ARTICHOKE RIVER 271 first dwelling-house on this land, and commenced housekeep- ing there about that date. At a legal meeting of the inhabitants of the town of Newbury Nov. 22, 1678, the town Granted to John Emery. Jun'r, twelve acres of land on the west side of Artichoke River adjoyneing to his owne land, Provided that he build and maintaine a corne Mill to grind the Towne's corne from time to time, and to build it within one yeare and an halfe after the Date hereof, And the Inhabitants of the Towne to have their corne ground according to their Turnes before any of another Towne. And March 3, 1678-9, the following vote was passed : — Whereas there is some dafficulty about John Emery his grant above- said about the mill. It was referred to Capt Daniel Pierce, Richard Bartlet, and Tristram Coffin to treat with John Emery & to perfect the said Bargaine both for place and other conveiniances belonging there unto & bring it to the Towne the ne.xt meeting. The report submitted by this committee was not recorded, or, if recorded at that time, has since been lost or purloined from the records. It is evident, however, from subsequent developments that satisfactory arrangements were made for the construction of a dam and the erection of a mill at the mouth of the Artichoke River, and that the work was under- taken during the ensuing summer and carried through to its completion.^ Dec. 13, 1686, the town appointed a committee " to lay out a convenient highway of such breadth as they shall see meet thro' the plaines to Sergeant Emery's mill." Under the care and supervision of John Emery the mill was put in operation and did efficient service for many years. April 18, 1693, being in failing health, John Emery made an agreement with his son Stephen " to tend the said mill or provide one that hath skill to doe it, & to be att half the charges to maintain and keep in good repair all the running geers & Iron work of the said mill." And " the said Stephen Emery is for his pains to have half of the income of the mill & his father, John Emery, the other half during his natural life, & after his decease the said mill to be to the said Stephen 272 OULD NEWBURY Emery as liis own free and proper estate" (Mssex Registry of Deeds, book 9, page 146). This agreement to con\'e)' tlie mill and other property to Stephen I'jnery was confirmed b)- a <\(ic([ dated May 19, 1693, and recorded in book 9, i)age 119, and also by the will of John Emery, dated Aug. 3, 1693, and j^roxed Sej^t. 26, 1693. Stephen ]^mer\', who came into possession of the i)roi)erty on the death of his father, was born in Newbur)' SejDt. 6, 1666, and married, Nov. 29, 1692, Ruth, daughter of Henry and Anna Jaques. He had charge of the mill, and "attended to the grinding of the town's corne" for more than fifty years. In confirmation of a grant of land made to John Emery, of which no record could be found, it was voted at a legal meeting of the town of Newbury March 8, 1696-7, that Whereas there was three acres of land lying on the east side of Arte- choak River granted formerly to Serj. John Emery towards the building his corne mill, and it was formerly laid out and bounded as it is now fenced together with the stream of Artechoak River; but there being no record to be found of the same the Towne now h\ the\r vote do confirm the said three acres of land as it is now fenced and the privilege of the said demeane unto the lawful heyrs and of the said John Emery, late of Newbury, deceazed, they keeping and maintaining a good & sufficient Corne mill on said stream on the tearms and conditions mentioned in a grant of the Towne, of November 22, 1678, as also of a Deed of a way for passing & repassing for the inhabitants of Newbury on the west side of said Artichoak River bearing date ye fourth of februarv, 1696-7. Vera Copia Taken out of the Records of Newbury this 24"' day of March, i6g8-q. k .. tt e -r- x-/ ^ ^ Attes Hexrv Short, foivnc Lie. for Newbury. Stephen hjnery died Eeb. i, 1746-7, leax'ing a famil\- of eleven children. His onl)' son, Stephen, born ]\\\\ 16, I 710, came into i)()ssession of the mill pr()i)ert)'. He married Hannah, daughter of Henry and Hannah Rolfe, May 5, 1732. Sept. 28, I 76 1, he sold the grist-mill, and also a saw-mill ad- joining the same, to Jonathan l^agley, of Amesbur\- (h^sse.x Registry of Deeds, book 120, page 144). MILL AT THE MOUTH OF ARTICHOKE RIl'ER 273 It is a tradition in the family that Stephen Emery sold this property in order to raise money for the purpose of estab- lishing his son Benjamin in business at Rumford, now Concord, N. H. The purchaser, Jonathan Bagley, was re- quired to give a bond in the sum of one thousand pounds sterling " to faithfully perform the conditions with Respect to grinding corn for the inhabitants of the Town of Newbury agreeable to the Conditions in which the said Stream was granted to John Emery." This bond is in the possession of Mrs. Mary Hale Emery, a lineal descendant of Stephen and John P^mery. The new owner was active and industrious. He extended the business at remunerative rates, and served the town acceptably as miller for twenty-five years. The executors of his will, under a license of the court granted in July, 1784, sold to Stephen Hooper, of Newburyport, "two grist mills with lands adjoining the same, dam, &c." The deed is dated June 2, 1786, and recorded in book 146, page 158. Stephen Hooper, of Newbury, for $2,700, sold to William Dandridge Peck, of Kittery, Me., April 16, 1800, about eight acres of land on the road leading to " Emery's mill," also twelve acres "bounded westerly on the Artichoke River," "together with a grist mill, saw mill, hulling mill, mill dam with privilege of the whole stream, a dwelling house, barn, &c." (book 166, page 217). William Dandridge Peck was born in Boston in 1763, and graduated at Harvard College in 1782. While owner of these mills, he was chosen Professor of Natural History at Harvard College, and was authorized to visit Europe for the purpose of obtaining information and familiarizing himself with the course of instruction and methods of study pursued there. Aug. 7, 1820, he sold "to Samuel Curson of New- buryport, merchant," the land above described, "with a grist mill, saw mill, house, barn, &c." (book 224, page 99). Since that date the property has remained in the posses- sion of Samuel Curzon and his descendants. The mill is still in good order and condition ready to meet the require- ments of the original grant as regards the grinding of corn. 2 74 OULD NE]VBURY Its interesting:; history and the i)ictin'esque beauty of the landscape in that immediate vicinity has attracted the aKen- tion of artists, of national as well as local reputation, who ' have reproduced on canvas, from almost every point of view, the prominent and characteristic features of the old mill and its surroundings. OLD SHIP-YARDS. The building and sailing of ships stimulated and accel- erated the growth and prosperity of Newbury, and became at an early day one of its leading industries. As a means of support and source of wealth, it ranked next in importance to farming and fishing. With an abundant supply of pine and oak timber near at hand, and a constantly increasing demand for small vessels suitable for the coasting trade, it is evident that the banks of the Merrimack River were soon made available for ship-building purposes. It is possible that sloops and shallops were built on the river Parker previous to the year 1700, as the first settle- ment was made in that vicinity, but there is no evidence of the fact. Duncan Stewart was a skilful and experienced shipwright. He occupied for some years a farm at Newbury Falls be- longing to the estate of William Dummer (Ipswich Deeds, book 4, leaf 370). Soon after the division of that estate, Nov. 23, 1680, he removed to Rowley. If he gave any attention to ship-building during his residence in Newbury, he undoubtedly made use of the first convenient and favorable location for building purposes below Thorlay's bridge* on the river Parker. ^ Jonathan Woodman, son of Edward Woodman, was also a ship-builder in Newbury at a very early date, as will appear from a perusal of the following official document on file at the state house in Boston : — * Coffin, m his History of Newbury, says there was a ship-yard, and ships were built at Thor- lay's bridge in 1723. Rev. Moses Parsons, of Eyfield, wrote in an interleaved almanac : "Aug. 6, 1751. Vessel launched at Thorlay's bridge." 276 OULD XEWBURY To Edward Michelson. marshal! (ienerall. or his Deputy You are hereby Required in his magisties name to sumon & raquire Barthohnew Stratton of Boston in New England, marriner & master & one eighth Fts. owner of the late Ship Salumander. togither with Elisha Hutchinson of Boston. Merchant, for himselfe & Elisha Sanford. owner of the one moyety. or two quarter pts of said Ship with J no Poole, merchant, owner of one other quarter part of said Ship. & Mary, the Relict & administratrix to the Estate & goods of the late Henry Kemble of Boston. Smith, that was owner to the other eighth part of the said Ship. & take Bond of them or as many of them as you can meet withal, to the value of 400 pounds money with sufficient surety or sureties for them ; to make vr several & respective appearances at a Court of Admiraltv called & to be held at Boston on ic,^"^ day of this Instant March at nine of the clock of y^' morning, then & there to An- swer, as owners of the late Ship aforesaid, the complaint & libell ex- hibited & presented to the said Court by Jonathan Woodman of New- berrv. Shipwright & Builder, for that the said Bartholmew Stratton. master, in behalf of himself & owners aforesaid, confermed to by Elisha Hutchinson for himselfe & EHsha Sandford for their proportion & Jno Poole for his proportions of said Ship as abovesaid have broken their covenants made withim the said Woodman by said Stratton in behalf of himself & them, the said owners aforesaid, as by respective papers & evidences will & may appear: & since the said Stratton. master afore- said, hath received said above mentioned Ship into his custody & pos- session in behalf & for the use of sd owners aforesaid & accordingly carried or removed the said Ship away from his place. Nevertheless both one & all the said owners aforesaid hath denied & still doth Re- fuse to make satisfaction & payment to the said Woodman for the said Ship, according to their first and after ingagement. putting the said Woodman to great loss, charges, damages, which by the whole account will appear no less than two hundred sixty eight pounds seaventeen shillings sixpence money and goods or thereabouts & still from said Woodman doth detayn the same or value thereof according to their Respective proportions as owners aforesaid for which their bonds & securities aforesaid is to be : that the above said owners shall not only appear & attend their respective concernes in said Court, but shall re- spond & abide the decree thereof, so make a true returne hereof under your hand. Dated in Boston 23 March. 1675-6. By the Court Edward Rawsox. Secy. That this is a true Copie Comjiard with the originall on file as attest I'.DWi' Rawsox. Sccry. Endorsed So far as 1 am concerned I shall appear l)y virtue of this .Itachment witness my had this 23"' March 1675-6. j, ^^^^ j^.^^ Pole. OLD SHIP-YARDS 277 So far as I am concerned I shall appear by vertue of this Atachment witness my hand 23'' March 1675-6. P me Bartholmew Strettox. I, Mary Kemble. administratrix to my husband, Henry Kemble. doe engage to appear, according to the within written Sumons, as my hand this 23"! March 1676. Mary Kemble. That what is above written is a true copy of ye marshalls Endors- ments as above. Edward Rawsox. Secy* Jonathan Woodman married Hannah Hilton July 2, 1668. March 25, 1681, he received from his father, Edward Wood- man, a deed of land, dwelling-house, etc. (Ipswich Deeds, book 4, leaf 425). Sept. 24, 168 1, Jonathan Woodman, shipwright, "in con- sideration that my uncle Stephen Greenleafe, Tristram Coffin & Nathaniel Clarke, all of Newbury, have bound themselves to my father, Mr. Edward Woodman, senior, and to my mother, to pay within two years £l^ for me, I Therefore convey to them my now dwelling house, houses and barnes, orchard & pastures, and all my land and meadow, which was lately made over to me b)- m)' ffather, viz' all m}^ plow land and pasture lying by and adioyneing to my dwelling house, as also all the plow land upon the north west syde of the street, lying upon the westward syde of my house, the sayd street being called the new streete, as also three acres of meadow, &c." (Ipswich Deeds, book 4, leaf 434). Nov. 8, 1695, Jonathan Woodman gave a mortgage deed of all his real estate to Tristram Coffin (Ipswich Deeds, book 4, page 431 ) ; and May 7, 1697, Tristram Coffin reconveyed to Jonathan Woodman all the property covered by this mort- crao-e deed, " including seven acres of upland bounded north- easterly by y'-' River Merrimack, southeasterly by y" land of William Titcomb, southwest by y= land of Isaac Bayley, & northwest by y^ lane commonly called Mr : Woodman's Lane " (Essex Deeds, book 1 1, page 254). His ship-yard was probably located near the foot of that ♦Maritime Records, Massachusetts Archives, volu;ne 61, page 126. 278 OULD XEIVBCRY lane which was laid out in 1788 by the town of Newbury port, and named Kent Street. His will, dated Nov. 15, 1706, and proved Feb. 3, 1706-7, gives to his son Jonathan "one half that ship timber 1 bought at Haverhill this Fall." In the division of the estate of George Carr, who died previous to April 10, 1683, Carr's Island, with dwelling-house, etc., was given to his widow during her lifetime ; and mention is also made of an old building yard, and " the pri\-elege of the dock below the lowest building place for laying of vessels, graving and laying of boates." Richard Carr, son of George Carr, continued the business of shi})-building on the island. Among the original papers and documents on file at the Essex Institute, Salem, Mass., is a written contract, of which the following is an exact cop)' : — Articles of Agreem* made and Concluded this fourth day of Novem- ber, An5 Dom' sixteen hundred ninty & six & in the eighth year of the Reigne of our sovring Lord William the third by the grace of God of England Scotland ffrance and Ireland King Defend'' of the Irish lies Between Maj'' John March of Newbury in the County of Essex in the Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England of one p'-' And one Richard Carr of Salisbury in the county & province aforesd Ship- wright of the other p'> Wittnesses That the sd Richard Carr doth hereby oblig himself his heyrs ex- ecuf" and Administraf" to deliver to the sd Maj"" John March his heyrs execut""^ administraf" a good vessell of about forty foote bv the Keele and about sixteen foote by the beame and about eight foote & four inches deepe in the Hold, wch said vessell stands now on the stocks on the Hand knowne by the name of Mr. Carrs Hand in Sals- bury, the said vessell to be by the said Carr compleatly finished, as to the Hull or body as also w"' Masts yards and Boomes & Bowsprit sutieabel for a Briginteen, the said Maj"" March to provid all Iron work excepting Deck rayles and other rayles, the said vessell to be delivrd a floate to the sd Majf March compleatly finished as to the carpenter work to a cleete, at or before the last day of January next ensuing the date heerof on tlie forfeiture of tliree hundred ixninds in good and Lawful mony of New England. The sd .Maj'' Jolin Marcli, liis heyrs. execuf" and adminst"" to pay or cause to be paid to the said Richard Carr, liis heyrs, execut". adminisf" or Assignes the full X: iusl sum of OLD SHIP-YARDS 279 one hundred & sixty pounds in form & maner following, viz y' he y sd Carr to allow the sd I\Iaj'' March so much as he stands now indebted to him for dealing formerly between them and twenty pounds in good and Lawfull mony of New England at the sealing heerof & twenty pounds in good and Lawfull mony of New England at or before the last day of this instant November, and twenty pounds in good and Lawful mony of New England at or before the sixteenth day of January next, and the remainder of the said sum of one hundred & sixty pound to be paid upon the delivery of sd vessell compleatly finished as above sd, the Hull or body of the afore sd vessell wth all masts, yards, boome, Bowsprit «& all other carpenters work finished to ye sea — to a cleete to be deliv"! to sd March or his order a floate in Merimack River. In confirmation of all & singuler the premises the partyes above named to these articles of agreement have heerunto set theyr hands & seals the day & year above sd. (.) allso the sd Carr doth Signed, sealed & interchangeably ingage before by : sealling delivered in presens of us hereof to calke ; recalke and James march grave the above sd vessell : and Edward Carleton doe all ye above sd worke work- Thomas Carletox man like : Richard Carr {Seal) Richard Carr had charge of the ferry at Carr's Island, and was also engaged in ship-building until his death Sept. 11, 1727. In the inventory of his estate mention is made of "a sloop on ye stocks valued at £,60 1 1.5-." For further informa- tion see the pamphlet entitled ''Historical Sketch of Ship- building on the Merrimack River," published in 1877, page 17. At this date there were at least twenty-five or thirty ship- yards on the west bank of the Merrimack River, between Colonel Daniel Pierce's farm and Bartlett's Cove. Most of these old yards have long since been absorbed by other in- dustries ; only a few at the present time remain unoccupied. Commencing at the lower end of the town, near the foot of Marlborough Street was the building-place occupied by Gideon Woodwell and afterward by his son and grandson. Vessels varying in size from fifty to one hundred and fifty tons' burthen were built there a century and a half ago. 28o OULD NEWBURY At the foot of Hromfickl Street, extending from Merriniack River to Hancock Street, was the yard where Mr. William Gerrish carried on the business of ship-building for many years. Between Hromtield and 1^'rankiin Streets was another ship- yard, occupied at the beginning of the present century by Messrs. Coker, Atkinson, Hunt, and Pierce. Rali)h Cross came to Newbury about the year 1728. He bought land at the foot of Lime Street, and established him- self in business there as a ship-builder. His house was on the lower side of Water Street adjoining his building-yard. He died Jan. 4. 1/88, aged eighty-two, and was buried in the Old Hill burying ground. After his decease Jacob Tucker, Elias Cook, and others continued the same business in the same place for twent\'-five or thirty years. Two small dwelling- houses, and a grocery store owned b)' Mr. Isaac Poor, now occupy the Water Street front of this old ship-yard ; and the land in the rear is a part of the lumber yard of Edward Per- kins & Co. In 1695, Thomas Johnson built one or more ships at the foot of Chandler's Lane (now I'ederal Street), between the Merrimack River and the land of Colonel Daniel Pierce ; and, in 1698, P>.ra Cottle occupied the yard, and built several vessels there. In the year 1700, John Stickney was granted land for a building-yard "near the place where Mr. Johnson built a \-essel at the lower end of Chandler's Lane." At a later date, between P'ederal Street and Fair Street, on land afterward used as a mast- and spar-}'ard by Messrs. Tit- comb & Lunt, was the building })lace owned and occupied by Stephen and Ralph Cross, sons of Ralph Cross, Sr. During the Revolutionary War the frigates "Hancock," "Boston," and " i'rotector" were built in this yard for the Continental (jovernment. The Middle .Ship-yard, near Watts' Cellar, was for many years after the settlement of the town merel_\- a la.iding- jilace, for the unloading of haw Unnber, and other mei'chan- dise. .Subse(|ueinl\' this " ri\er lot" of common antl undi- OLD SHIP-YARDS 281 videcl land was rented by the proprietors of Newbury to ship-owners and ship-builders, and vessels were built here from time to time until the close of the last century. Under date of March 11, 1711-12, the town "voted that Major Henry Somerby, Capt. Sergant, & Lieut. Titcomb shall have power to let ye building yard near Watts cellar (so called) unto Col. Patridge and Mr. Fawn Clement and Mr. Hodge on such terms as they agree for." March 5, 1768, a committee of the proprietors of the town of Newbury, consisting of John Brown, Joseph Coffin, and Thomas Woodbridge, for ^"200, gave a deed of the Middle ship-yard to Samuel Gerrish (book 127, leaf 190). May 30, 1 77 1, another deed confirming and ratifying the above conveyance was made by Moses Noyes, Moses Little, and Samuel Noyes, committee, to Samuel Gerrish (book 130, leaf 7). March 8, 1768, Samuel Gerrish leased to Thomas Wood- bridge for ten years "that tract of land in Newburyport known by the name of the Middle ship yard." It would be impossible within the limits of this sketch to describe in detail all the ship-yards established in Newbury subsequently to the year 1700. In addition to those already named, Samuel Moggaridge owned a yard near the foot of what is now Forrester Street. This yard was afterward occupied by Jonathan Merrill, Nathan Merrill, and Orlando B. Merrill, and at a later date by Stephen Jackman and George W. Jackman, Jr. During the war of the Rebellion the gunboats " Marblehead " and " Ascutney " were built here, and in 1866 and 1867 the large ocean steamers, " Erie " and " Ontario," were launched from this yard. In 1807, Elisha Briggs came to Newbury from Pembroke, Mass., and established himself in business as a ship-builder at the foot of Ashland Street. His yard was afterward en- larged, and occupied by Messrs. William Currier & James L. Townsend, who built there many famous clipper ships. Subsequently Messrs. Charles H. Currier & Co., Colby & Lunt, John Currier, 3d, and George E. Currier continued !82 OULD NEWBURY the work of ship-])uildii\i;- in that locality down to a very recent date. At the foot of Oakland Street I^ben Manson built many ships and barks from the year 1853 to 1873, and Messrs. Atkinson & l-'illmore carried on a prosperous and successful business at the foot of Titcomb Street from 1868 to 1885. JOHN CURRIER, JR.'S. SHIP-YARD, 1857. llie yard on Poore's Lane (now Merrimack Court) was laid out and prepared for ship-buildini;" purposes in 1833. It was part of the estate of Samuel I'oore previous to the )'ear 1700, and after his decease twelve acres of this low meadow land were sold to Samuel Moggaridge. Now II, 1766, John Moggaridge, son of Samuel Mogga- ridge, sold to Abel Merrill, of Xewbuiyport, shipwright, for the sum of X365 1 2^. Gd., land extending from Moody's OLD SHIP-YARDS 283 Lane, so called, in a northerly direction, to land sold by Rachel Poor to Timothy Remick, and thence easterly to the Merrimack River (Essex Deeds, book 121, page 197). Feb. 28, 1795, Anna Coffin, of Andover, widow, Anna Brewer, of Andover, woman, and Elizabeth Coffin and Sarah Coffin, both of said Andover, single women, for ^360, con- veyed to Ebenezer Savory, of Methuen, tanner, twelve acres and thirty rods of land, and house and barn thereon, in Newbury, bounded northeasterly by Merrimack River, south- easterly by a driftway, southwesterly and westerly by a two- rod way running to Moggaridge Point, so called, and northerly by a public landing-place, being the same tract of land which John Moggaridge conveyed to Abel Merrill Nov. 17, 1766 (book 159, leaf 54). May 28, 1833, P2benezer Savory sold to John Currier, Jr., of Newbury, shipwright, a portion of the above described premises, beginning at the westerly corner of Poore's Lane, so called, thence running south by land of George W. Jack- man, thence by land of the grantor, thence by the Merri- mack River and town landing, thence by the said Poore's Lane to the bound begun at, containing about five acres and thirty-six rods (book 268, leaf 299). In 1 83 1, Mr. Currier commenced work as master-builder in the yard previously occupied by Jonathan and Nathan Merrill, and three years later removed to the land purchased as above. This lot, with several acres adjoining, was im- proved and occupied by him, as a ship-yard for more than fifty years. John Currier, Jr., was born April 14, 1802. He was the son of John and Hannah (Coffin) Currier, of Newbury, and a descendant, of the seventh generation, in a direct line, from Richard Currier, who settled in Salisbury in 1639. He married Clarissa Carr Dec. 28, 1830, and died Sept. 2, 1887. During his long and active life he built nearly one hundred large vessels, with a total registered capacity of more than 90,000 tons. In April, 1883, he launched the ship "Mary L. Cushing," owned by John N. Cushing, Esq., and others JOHN CURRIER. JR. OLD SIIir-YARDS 285 of Newburyport. This ship was the last merchant-ship built in the state of Massachusetts. Since that date the business has steadily declined, and is now practically extinct on the Merrimack River. In the pamphlet previously mentioned, giving a brief sketch of ship-building on this river, the reader will find a list of the vessels registered in Newburyport from April i, 1793, to the close of the year 1876. Since the publication of the pamphlet the missing records, from the organization of the United States government to April i, 1793, have been supplied by the treasury department at Washington ; and the names of the vessels built in this revenue district during that period are printed in the appendix to this volume. INDIAN ATTACK ON THE FAMILY OF JOHN BROWN AT TURKEY HILL. Thomas Brown, weaver, came to New^bury, in 1635, from Malford, England. His son Francis Brown married Mary Johnson Nov. 21, 1653, and settled in the vicinity of Turkey Hill. In the Proprietors' Records of the town of Newbury are the following entries : — At a Geiierall meeting of the Towne may 7"' 1659 Francis Brown proposed to Exchang about an hundred acres of liis ffarme that lyeth in or about the Owle swamp to be laid out upon the southwesterly part of Turke\' hill. The Towne Granted it, and ap- pointed Richard Knight, Archelaus Woodman, William Titcomb & John Bayley to veiw it and to lay it out so it be not prejuditiall for the Towne. According to the order of the Towne May 7* 1659 we have veiwed ffrancis Brownes land by Turkey hill, and we tind at the Swamp called the Owle Swamp a parcell of land joyning to Georg Littles on the west and so Joyning unto the Comon on the other Quarters. Which in Consideration of ffrancis Browne his resigning up into the Townes hands one hundred and three acres of Land in the place afore said, which he doth by these presents. We have laid out unto ffrancis Browne an hundred and three acres of land as followeth (that is to say): begiiiing by a Marked tree by a stake on the side of Turkey hill and so ruiiing on a south west poynt unto a wall nut tree by a Brooke one hundred and twenty Rod, being in all on the Northwest poynt two hun- dred and twelve Rods, and from thence ruiiing easterly an hundred and twelve rods unto an other marked tree, and from thenc ruiiing Northerly eighty rods unto a white oak marked uppon a little Hill by the Birchen meadows, and from thenc runing over the meadow to the old bounds, and so runing to a poynt wher we began. Richard Kxight Archelaus Woodmax William Titcomb John Baylev pr Anthony Somerby 288 OCLD XEWBURY Francis Brown had nine children. A son, John Brown, born May 13, 1665, married Ruth Huse Au^^ 20, 1683, and lived with his father on the farm on the southwesterly side of Turkey Hill. On the afternoon of Oct. 7, 1695, a party of Indians, not more than five or six in number, secreted themselves near the house ; and, after the male members of the family had departed with a load of farm produce, the Indians left their place of concealment, and, stealthily approaching the house, tomahawked a girl standing at the front door, seized such articles of household furniture and wearing apparel as they could conveniently take away, and hastily departed with nine captives, all women and children. It is probable that some members of Francis Brown's family were included in this number. The names and ages of the children of John and Ruth Brown at this time were as follows : — John, born Oct. 27. 1683, twelve year.s old. Isaac, born Feb. 4. 1685, ten years, eight months old. Thomas, born Jan. i. 1689, five years, ten months old. Joseph, born Nov. 5, 1690, nearly five years old. Abel, born April 4, 1693, two years, six months old. Ruth, born July, 1695, three months old. Only one inmate of the house, a girl, escaped capture ; and, after the departure of the Indians, she gave the alarm. Colonel Daniel Pierce, of Newbury, immediately notified Colonel Appleton and Colonel Wade, of Ipswich, that assist- ance was needed, and rec|uested that men be sent to range the woods toward Bradford and Andover, to |n-event the escape of the Indians, if possible. According to tradition, the captives were recovered on the northwesterly side of Pipe Stave Hill, near a small stream that emi)ties into the Merrimack, now known as Indian Ri\er. The number killed or seriously injureil is somewhat uncertain, as the re[)orts of the attack antl pursuit are contradictor)' and confusing. Cotton Mather, in x'olume 2, book 7, article 23, of the " Magnalia," says : — THE FAMILY OF JOHN BROWN 289 The Indians entered the house of one John Brown at Newbury, carry- ing away nine persons with them. Captain Greenleaf, pursuing the murderers, was wounded by them, but retook the captives. The Indians, however, had beaten them so unmercifully that they all after- ward died except one lad who was only hurt in the shoulder. Some of them lingered for six months, and some for more than a year, suffering from their wounds. Judge Samuel Sewall in his diary says : — Oct. 7, 1695, Jn" Brown's family of Turkey hill are led captive. All are brought back save one boy that was killed ; knock'd the rest on the head, save an infant. Rev. John Pike in his journal says, "The captives were all retaken, but some died of their wounds." Oct. 8, 1695, Colonel Thomas Wade wrote from Ipswich as follows : — Honored Sir, Just now Captain Wicom brings information that the last night Cap- tain Greenleaf with a party of men met with the enemy by the river side, have redeemed all the captives but one, which they doubt is killed. Three of the Indians got into a canoe and made escape, and the other two ran into the woods. Captain Greenleaf is wounded in the side and arm. how much we know not. which is all at present from your servant. Thomas Wade. On the 5th of March, 1 695-^6, Captain Greenleaf addressed the following petition to the General Court : — To the Hon''i<^ William Stoughton Esq-' Lieu^ Govern'' &c. the Council and Representatives of his Ma'-^'- Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, convened in General Assembly, March 5"' 1695-6. The Petition of Cap' Stephen Greenleaf e of Newbury Humbly sheweth That upon the 7'" of October last, about three o'clock in the afternoon, a party of Indians surprised a Family at Turkey hill in sd town, captivated nine persons, women and Children, ritfed the house, carrying away the Bedding and other Goods. Only one person in the House escaped ; and gave' notice to the next Family and they to the Town. Upon the Alarm your Pef with a party of men pursued after the Enemy, endeavoring to line the River Merrimack to prevent their 290 OULD NEWBURY passini^ over, l)y wiiicli meanes the Captives were recovered and brought l)ack. The Enemy hxy in a Gully hard by the Highwav, and aljout nine at night made a shot at your Petitioner and shot him through the Wrist between the bones, and also made a large wound in his side, Which wounds have been very painful and costly to your Pef^ in the cure of them and have in a great measure utterly taken away the use of his left hand, and wholly taken him off from his Imployment this Winter. Your Petitioner therefore humbly prayes this Honf'''^' Court that they would make him Such Compensation as shall seem fit, which he shall thankfully acknowledge, and doubts not but will be an Encouragemen* to others speedily to relieve their Neighbours when assaulted by so bar- barous an Enemy. And your Pef shall ever pray, &c. Stephen Greenleaf.* In an.swer to thi.s petition a vote was pas.sed and approved March 7, 1695-6, and embodied in Chapter 63 of the Laws of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, as follows : — Upon reading the petition of Capt" Stephen Greenleaf of Newbury, lately wounded and maimed in his maj*>''* service, praying some allow- ance and compensation for his smart, cure, loss of time and of the use of his left hand, — Voted, a concurrance with the representatives, that the said Captain Stephen (Greenleaf be paid, out of the province treasury, the sum of forty pounds, which shall be in full of what he hath been out upon cure and what yearly pension he might have expected had not this been granted. The tree in the immediate foreground of the half-tone print on page 286, marks the spot where the old house stood when the Indians made their attack upon the defenceless familv. The house was bin'lton the southwesterly side of Turkey Hill, about two hundred rods in an easterly direction from the present residence of Mr. Charles Brown, who is a lineal descendant, of the se\'enth generation, fi-om John i^rown, and the present owner of the fai'm. Coffin, in his Histor}' of Xewbiu-}-, sa\s, "This is the only instance in which the Indians either atlackctl, capli\ated, or killed an)' of the iidiabitants of the town." * MassacluisL'tts .\rcliives, volume 70, page 2^>7. 191 BYFIELD PARISH. In Ma}', 1635, the town of Newbury was incorporated, and the same month the General Court ordered John Humphrey, John Endicott, Nathaniel Turner, and William Trask " to set out a farm for Mr. Dummer, about the falls of Newberr}', not exceeding the quantity of five hundred acres, provided it be not prejudicial to Newberry" ; and at the same time liberty was granted to Mr. (Richard) Dummer and Mr. (John) Spencer "to build a mill and weire at the falls of Newbury." The court also ordered " that Mr. (Richard) Dummer and Mr. Bartholomew shall set out a convenient quantity of land within the bounds of Newberry for the keeping of the sheep and cattle that came over in the Dutch shipps this yeare, and to belong to the owners of said cattle." Coffin, in the His- tory of Newbury (page 18), says, "The tract of land which was set apart as the place for pasturing these cattle was near the falls of Newbury. Of this land, Mr. John Spencer had a mill lot of fifty acres, Mr. Richard Dummer three hundred acres, Mr. Henry Sewall five hundred acres, Mr. John Clark four hundred acres." In 1637, there was considerable religious excitement in the colony, and the General Court disfranchised or banished a large number of the followers of Mrs. Hutchinson. Among those ordered to be disarmed were Richard Dummer, John Spencer, and Nicholas Easton. Spencer returned to Eng- land, Easton went to Rhode Island, but Dummer remained in Newbury. In 1640, contributions were sent to Governor Winthrop from several towns in the colony to make up the severe pecu- niary loss he had suffered through the unfaithfulness of his bailiff ; and Richard Dummer, with great liberality, gave one BY FIELD PARISH 293 hundred pounds. Savage, commenting on this voluntary contribution, says : " The generosity of Dummer is above all praise. His contribution is fifty per cent, above the whole tax of his town, and equal to half the benevolence of the whole metropolis ; and yet he had been a sufferer under the mistaken views of Winthrop and other triumphant sound religionists." The fertility of the soil and the large cjuantity of salt marsh, convenient for the support of cattle, near the falls of the Ouascacjuncjuen (now Parker) River, soon attracted a number of settlers to that locality ; but the distance from the meeting-house was so great that it soon became necessary to establish a new parish with bounds and limits, extending about two miles in either direction from the falls, and includ- ing parts of the towns of Newbur)^ and Rowley. In 1 701, the tax imposed upon the inhabitants in that vicinity for the support of the gospel was abated to one-half the customary rate; and, in 1702, a meeting-house was built near the place where the present one now stands, and the parish was called " Rowlbury." It is evident, however, that neither the name nor boun- daries of the parish were definitely fixed upon until two years later. Judge Sewall, in the following letter to Colonel By- field, gives Feb. 24, 1703-4, as the date when "the inhabi- tants upon the upper part of the River Parker . . . agreed to have the place called Byfield " : — To Col. Nath'l Byfield at Bristow March 4, i 703-4. My Brother Moodey of Newbury came to visit us this week : He tells me that the Inhabitants upon the upper part of the River Parker, who have Mr. Moses Hale for their Minister, having made his house habitable, took the advantage of Meeting in it upon the four and twentieth of February last, being the fifth day of the week, to consult about the concerns of their Infant-Parish: At which time they unani- mously agreed to have the Place called Byfield. My Brother is to carry home a Book to Record their Transactions relating to their settleing the Worship of God in that Quarter; and this among the rest, I presume 294 OULD NEWBURY thev will henceforwTird look upon vou as their God-Father: and will be ready gratefully to Acknowledge any Countenance and Favour you shall please to afford them. S S * The house that Judge Sewall says was " made habitable " for Rev. Moses Hale was built upon land sold by John Dummer April lO, 1703, for and in consideration of ^9, "to Lieut. \Mlliam Moody of Newbiu-}', Henry Poor of Rowley, and the rest of the proprietors of the meeting house lately erected ui)on the division line between Newbury and Rowley neere the falls, . . . nine acres of land in two fields, where the parsonage house is to stand." This deed has never been recorded. The original was in the possession of Mrs. Isaac \\\ Wheelwright at the time of her decease. John Dummer also sold June 9, 1703, to Rev. Moses Hale, "our minister, one acre of land in Newbury on the way lead- ing from m}' now dwelling house to the Falls Meeting house, westerly by the Parsonage land, northerly and easterly by land of the grantor" (book 15, leaf 305). Judge Sewall was evidently deeply interested in the wel- fare of the new parish, and on the first day of April sent the following letter to his brother William Moody, who was one of the proprietors of the new meeting-house to whom the land for a parsonage was sold, as above stated ; — Loving brother Boston. April i^' 1704. After your being here last I writt a letter to Colonel Bvfield and in- formed him that you had named your infant parish Byfield. and would from henceforth look upon him as your patron, and be ready gratefully to acknowledge any countenance or favour he should be pleased to afford you. To this effect in more words. This dav I received a letter from Colonel Byfield, in which are these words : " I am surprised at the account you give me of a new town upon the river Parker near Newbury. How they hitt upon my name I can't imagine. I heartily wish them prosperity : and if any respect to me was the cause, it is an obligation upon me, (when tiod shall enable me) to study how I may be serviceable to them."' I called it only a parish. What if Mr. Hale should write a letter to Colonel Byfield. intimating the matter of fact, tlial it was in regard to * Letter llnnk. xdhimc i, page 296. BY FIELD PARISH 295 him. You have been informed of his parentage. He has only two daughters. Madam Lyde and Madam Taylor. I believe he is a good man. and a fast friend, very industrious and thorow in promoting what he undertakes. Samuel Sewall.* Nathaniel Byfield was the son of Rev. Richard Ryfield, of Long D>rtton, Sussex, England, and the youngest of twenty-one children. He came to Boston in 1674, at the age of twenty-one, and on April 25, 1676, sent the following petition to the governor and council sitting in Boston : — The Petition of Nathaniel Byfield Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner is a stranger in the country and lately Married, and is now Prest to goe out to warre against the Indians. And whereas the Law of God is plain in 24 Deut. 5. That when a man hath taken a new wife, he shall not goe out to warre, neither shall he be charged with any business, but he shall be free at home one yeare. Your petitioner doth humbly request the favour of y^' Honours to grant him the Priviledge and benefit of the said law and to grant him a discharge from the pres- ent Service. So shall he pray for your Honours. Nathaniel Byfield.* Colonel Byfield, while appreciating the honor conferred upon him by the parish, did not respond with alacrity to the suggestion that some substantial gift from him would be acceptable. After two or three years of patient waiting. Judge Sewall ventured to call his attention to the subject in the following letter : — To Nathanael Byfield Esqr Jan'' 6'h lyof Sir,— The inclosed News-Letter mentions the little Parish, that bears your name, and was so called for your sake. The Parishioners have struggled with many difficulties in their little and low beginnings. The Work they have accomplished is Noble. They have settled the Wor- ship of GOD in a place where the Inhabitants were under very hard Circumstances, by reason of their remoteness. Their Hands are few, and weak. If you shall find in your heart, one way or other to give them a Lift, I am persuaded, you will therein be a Worker with GOD, and I hope, neither you, nor any of your Descendents, will have cause to * Coffin's History of Newbury, page 170. t Ibid., page 401. 296 OL'LD XEU'BURY Repent of it. I do not challeni^e it of you: Init I must needs say, if vou whollv decline it, I shall fail of my expectation. Living upon vour Lands, you are in a special maiier concernd in the Small Treatise inclosed, which please to accept of, from Sir Vour humble Serv« S. S.* The parish of Byfield was incorporated by the General Court Oct. 28, 1 710; and a few weeks later Colonel, after- ward Judge, Hyfield gave to the inhabitants of the parish a bell weighing two hundred and twenty-six pounds. A por- trait of the venerable judge, who died in 1733, now hangs in the new parsonage, nearly opposite the meeting-house. It was presented to the parish June i, i, a fine likely ch,ld, a very c^ood piece of land & greatly wants a little stock to manage ,t, and yt Father hath paid for him upwards of an hundred pounds to get h.m out of Debt (A: E. Historical ami Genealogical Register, volume 24, page 123). In a letter to his father, Henry Sevvall, at Newbury, dated Sept. 10, 1686, he wrote: — As to Brother Longfellow's business, I have writt you my sence before • viz that would first understand more certainly the state of h,s affair, 'which I have taken care for by Mr. Foxcroft. However. ,f Brother be persuaded that 'tis his best way to go over this Fall, as is hinted in his Letter, I shall not contradict : because he best knows his own Concerns. Only 1 cahot give him that Assistance he mention.s_of /->o or /30 Yet if' he be resolved to goe. and have not other accomo- dation and sister desire it too. I should not be against undertaking for his passa-e And am willing to give up the Mortgage for the Principal, without any demand of Interest; which, pray. Sir, remembering my Love to him and sister, please to signify.* On page 50 of SeNvall's Letter Book is the folloxving letter to " Brother Longfellow " : — Boston. N. E., Augt. 8, 1687. Iovi>.r Brot/n-r.-\ our. of the 12- of March, datted at Rumsey, came safe to hand, am glad to hear of your good passage and arrival. Thankful to friends for their Kindnes shewed you. I had a son born the 30"^ of January, a desireable healthy Child to our thinking, but he fell ill and dyed the 26^^ of July. Brother Stephen hath a little Marga- reTt Our friends att Newberry are well as far as I know. My sister was much refreshed to hear of your Welfare : her Letter to you sent me for Conveyance. I have enclosed In mine. As to the younger children of Wallingford, I understand they are averse to whatt you writt abou t, and those nott of Age twill be hard for them being So Remote to do anything Legally; and except they see you make some succesfuU prog- ress in what you have begun. I doubt will be backward I should think your besi way will be to gett your own mony in Yorkshire (as you write you are agoing thether), and then lay it outt in whatt may be ad- vantagious to New England, and not hazzard the throwing away your Patrimony in Tedious Doubtful Law Suitts. I would not have you venture upon anything in that kind but what may be very plain and *Sewairs Letter Book, volume i, page 3^^- 3o8 OULD NEWBURY fecible. lest accordiniLi; to the Fable in /Esop catching att a shadow yon lose the Body. Give my dne remembrance to my relations. Praying God to succeed you in your concerns and to bless your succes. I take leave who am your Loving Brother. On page 6i of the same volume, under date of Aug. 25, 1687, Judge Sewall acknowledges the receipt of a letter from "brother Longfellow," dated London, June 11, and adds inci- dentally, " His father aliv^e and well." The patrimony, there- fore, to which reference is made, was probably due from the estate of a brother who died in England about that time. After the retiu'n of William Longfellow to Newbury he enlisted in the expedition to Ouebec, under Sir William Phips, and was drowned at Cape Breton in October, 1690. Judge Sewall in his diar}' says: — 'Twas Tuesday, the 18"' of November, that I heard of the death of Capt. Stephen Greenleaf, Lieut. James Smith and Ensign W'" Long- fellow. Serj' Increase Pilsbury, who with Will Mitchell, Jabez Musgro and four more were drown"d at Cape Britoon on Friday night the last of October. William LongfelK)w and Anne (Sewall) Longfellow had six- children : — William, born Nov. 25, 1679. Stephen, born Jan. 10, 1681. Anne, born Oct. 3, [683. Stephen, born Sept. 22. 1685. Elizabeth, born Julv 3, 1688. Natlian. born Feb. 5. 16(^0. April 13, 1692, Henr)' .Sewall, in consideration of the mar- riage shortl)- to be consiuiimated between Henr)- Short and Anne (Sewall) Longfellow, widow, conx'eyed to them during their lives, and after their decease to their children, " the farm lately in the occupation of William Longfellow, called the High Field, together with the dwelling-house, i)Uthouses, &c." (Ivsse.x Deeds, book 16, page 21). May II, 1692, Henry Short married Anne (Sewall) Long- fellow, and lived on the farm tlescribed above. He had. THE LONGFELLOW LIOUSE 3^9 by this marriage, six children. Henry Short died Oct. o- 1706 His widow died Dec. 18, 1706. " The title to this property was, by virtue of the deed of con- veyance from Henry Sewall, vested in the surviving children of Anne (Sewall) Longfellow-Short. Stephen Longfelh.w (the second of that name), born Sept. -,. 1685 was a locksmith and blacksmith by trade. Jan. 3, 1710-11 he bought of his sister Elizabeth all her right and interest ''in land given to said Anne by her father, Henry Sewall, in particular the farm in Newbury known as ye high field" (Essex Deeds, book 23, page 97). Dec 17. 1 712, he bought of his brother Nathan all his ri.xht and interest in the same property (book 37, page 261). ^He married, March 25, 171 3, Abigail, daughter of Rev. Edward Thompson, of Marshfield, Mass. About this time he built an addition to the house, with a lean-to roof. The addition was removed early in this century, and does not appear in the half-tone print that illustrates this sketch. Jan 7 1714-15. he bought of John luuery and wife Mehitable, daughter of Anne Longfellow, all her right and interest in the house and land previously described (book 42, pao-e 66) ; and Jan. 6, 1725-6, he bought of his half-brother Samuel Short "all that right and interest in the high field farm at Newbury Ealls given me by deed and will of my o-randfather, Henry Sewall " (book 47- P^ge 119)- ^ In the Letter Book of Samuel Sewall (volume 2, page 172) there is an interesting letter relating to an encumbrance on this property, which reads as follows : — To ^Ir. Stephen Longfellow Septic 3, 1724. Lovin^^ Cousin^- 1 am grieVd to hear that you are still contending in the Law with vour Brother and Sister Adams about my honoured Father's Mortgage of Half the High-Field, which must be costly, even to the Overcomer; Besides the Loss of Brotherly-kindness, which ,s invaluable. Therefore I earnestly advise and intreat you to leave off this Contention before it be any further medled w>th ; and to conclude all with a just and Kind Agreement. Praying GOD to do you and yours Good, I am your loving Unkle ^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^ 3IO OULD XEIVBURY In the same volume and on the same page is the following letter, on the same subject : — Septr 3. 1 724. Loving Cousins, — I am grieved to hear that you are still contending in the Law with your brother Stephen Longfellow about mv honoured Father's Mortgage of Half the High-Field, which must be Costly, even to the overcomer; Besides the Loss of Brotherly-kindness, which is in- valuable. I am confident that I drew the Mortgage, and that no more was intended to be Granted thereby, than Half the High-Field strictly taken, as it was then fenced in : and to take in a Surplusage of Land lying between the Northwesterly end of the High-F'ield and the Head- Line of my Father's Farm, running from Rattle-Snake Rock to Philp's Brook. And therefore I earnestly advise and intreat you to leave off this Contention before it be any further medled with ; and to conclude all with a just and Kind Agreement. The nearness of Relation pre- cludes me from being a Judge in this Controversy. But, if I should live, and be called to it. I must needs give this evidence in the case. Praying GOD to do Good to you both, and to the numerous Offspring He has Bless'd you with, I remain vour loving L^nkle Samuel Sew.\ll. To .Mr. Abraham .\dams & Mrs. Anne Adams at Newbury (sent by Brother Moodey) The advice offered b)' Judge Sewall was apparent]}' un- heeded, and the case was brought to trial in the month of May following. In his diary, under date of May 14, 1725, he says : — Mr. Rogers pray'd at the opening of the Court. Judgement against cous. Adams. Cousin Longfellow has his judgment confirm'd against his Bro'' and sister Adams. With leave of the Court. I declar'd how I understood the Word High Field, who made the mortgage. Stephen Longfellow died at Newbury Falls (Hyfield Parish) Nov. 17, 1764. His .son Stephen, born Feb. 7, 1723, grad- uated at Harvard College in 1742, removed to I-^ilmouth (now Portland), Me., in 1745, and there married, Oct. 19, 1749, Tabitha, daughter of Samuel Bragdon, of York, Me. He died at Gorham, Me., May i, 1790. .Stephen, the eldest son of Stephen and Tabitha (Bragdon) Longfellow, was born Aug. 3. 1750. He married Patience THE LONGFELLOW HOUSE 311 Young, of York, Me., Dec. 13, 1773, and died May 28, 1824, leaving several children. The eldest son of Stephen and Patience (Young) Long- fellow, Stephen Longfellow, LL.D., was born March 23, 1776, graduated at Harvard College in 1798, and married Zilpha, eldest daughter of General Peleg Wadsworth, Jan. i, 1804. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the poet, second son of Stephen and Zilpha Wadsworth Longfellow, was born in Portland, Me., P'eb. 27, 1807. He died in Cambridge March 24, 1882. Stephen Longfellow, son of William Longfellow and Anne (Sewall), born Sept. 22, 1685, owned and occupied the house and farm at Newbur)- Falls until his death, Nov. 17, 1764. In his will, dated Oct. 13, 1760, and proved Nov. 26, 1764, he gave to his wife Abigail one-half of the homestead during her life, and to his sons Edward and Samuel, after the pay- ment of certain bequests, all the rest and residue of his estate excepting land adjoining the new plantation in Contoocook, N. H. Abigail, wife of Lieutenant Stephen Longfellow, died Sept. 10, 1778, aged eighty-five. Dec. II, 1788, Edward Longfellow gave to his brother Samuel Longfellow a quitclaim deed of twenty rods of land "with the house thereon" (book 152, page 95). On the land remaining in his possession Edward Longfellow built a new house that is still standing near the site of the old homestead. Samuel Longfellow, born March 4, 1725, married Rebekah Chase about the year 1769. She died Feb. 25, 1788, in the forty-ninth }'ear of her age. P"or his second wife, he married Martha Chaplin. He occupied the old homestead until his death, Aug. 4, 1800. His will, dated May 30, 1800, and proved Sept. i, 1800, gave all the rest and residue of his estate to his son Nathan after the payment of certain small legacies. Nathan Longfellow, born Dec. 26, 1773, married xA.nna Downer in the year 1799. He died Oct. 26, 1840. In his 312 OULP XEWnrRY will, dated Dec. 6, 1837, and pioxcd in December, 1840, he gave to his son Josej")!! the old house with the land under and adjoining the same. Joseph Longiellow, born Jul)' 11, 1810, married Lucretia Fairbanks, of Canton, Mass., May 9, 1841. They have two sons now lixing : — Horace F.. born Nov. 26. i S46. Charles A., born April 13, [1X56. The house built about 1790 b}' lulwaixl Longfellow, with the land connected therewith, was purchased of the heirs of the late lulward Longfellow, and now forms a part of the estate of Joseph Longfellow, who still resides there. The old house once occupied by William and Anne (Sewall) Longfellow was taken down ten or fifteen years ago. The half tone \)x'\\-\X. on page 306 gixes a \'iew of the house as it was in i 880. DUMMER ACADEMY. Richard Dummcr, the first of that name who came to America, was born in the parish of Bishop Stoke, near South- ampton, in England ; and, after his arrival in the colony of Massachusetts Bay in 1632, he resided for about two years in Roxbury, when he removed to Boston. He was interested with Richard Saltonstall, Henry Sewall, and others in the importation of cattle ; and in May, 1635, at the same session and on the same day that Newbury was by the General Court " allowed to be a plantation," a commit- tee was appointed " to set out a farm for M"" Dummer about the Falls of Newbury." Feb. II, 1635-6, the town leased to Richard Dummer, for two years, a lot of land on Newbury Neck. About the same time, probably, although there is no date affixed to the record in the Proprietors' Book, the town granted To M'' Richard Dumer an house lot of four acres, be it more or less, two acres whereof is bounded by JVP Easton on the south, by Henry Short on the north, by the Green on the east, & by Mr. Noyes on the west. The other two acres are bounded by the river on the south, by High street on the north, by Mr. Easton on the east, & Henry Short on the west. The grant to Nicholas Easton, recorded in the same book, confirms the bounds and limits of the four-acre lot described above. It reads as follows : — To Nicholas Easton an house lot of four acres, be it more or less, two acres whereof is bounded by Mr. Noyes on the south, and by Mr. Dumer on the North, the Green on the east, & Mr. Noyes on the west. The other two acres are bounded by the river on the south, by High Street on the north, Mr. Dumer on the west, & Mr. Noyes on the east. DUMMER ACADEMY 315 These grants can be easily identified by reference to the plan on page 14 drawn by Daniel Dole, whereon the lots laid out to the first settlers at the Lower Green are properly marked and designated. Richard Dlmimer was liberal in his theological views, and was disarmed — "deprived of swords, guns, pistols, shot, and match" — by the General Court Nov. 20, 1637, because of his avowed sympathy with Mrs. Anne Hutchinson and Rev. John Wheelwright. On the eighteenth day of the eleventh month, 1637, the town ordered That whereas the full terme of two years is now expired for which terme part of the necke of ground on the south side of the river was the 18"' of January, 1635, last lett out to Mr. Dummer that now the towne doth againe take it into their own hands & intend to dispose of it at their pleasure, & that Mr. Dummer shall with all convenient spead be payd all necessary charges attending to former agreement. A few months later Richard Dummer bought of lliomas Hale a house and land on Merrimack ridge, described as follows : — October 6, 163.S, the Town confirms the sale from Thomas Hale to Richard Dumer of house & land on Merrimack Ridge on both sides. Said Dumer is granted to have all the land betwi.xt his pailes & Mr. Sewall's fence ranging equally with the pales allready sett up, leaving a watering place for the cattell to drink at the brooke. In 1640, he gave p{^ioo toward the fund subscribed by a few citizens of Boston and elsewhere to make up the loss that Governor Winthrop had suffered through the unfaithfulness of a bailiff. For this act of liberality and generosity he was highly commended, and received great praise from personal as well as political friends and opponents. How long he retained this house and land at Parker River is somewhat uncertain. When the new town was laid out in 1646, he probably removed to his farm at Newbury Falls. Nov. 17, 1673, in consideration of the marriage of his son Richard to Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Captain John Apple- 3l6 OULD NEWBURY ton, of Ipswich, he conveyed to his said son all that portion of the farm, includini;- mansion house, etc., bounded north and northeast and northwesterly by the Newbury or I^^alls River, also one-third of unenclosed land — about one hun- dred and fifty acres in all — on the south and southwest side of the farm (Ipswich Deeds, book 3, pa^je 290). This estate was purchased in 1801 of descendants of Richard Dummer by Mr. Eben Parsons, brother of Theophilus Par- sons, and is now known as the P\atherland Farm. April 18, 1679, Richard Dummer, Sr., conveyed to Jere- miah Dummer, of Boston, ninety-five acres of upland and thirteen acres of meadow in Newbury and Rowley " lately laid out, as appears in the Newbury town book." Frances, wife of Richard Dummer, released dower (Ipswich Deeds, book 4, page 291). Richard Dummer, Sr., died Dec. 14, 1679, at the age of eighty-eight. His will, dated April 3, 1679, and proved April I, 1680, is very brief. One clause reads as follows : — Having disposed of my lands and the greatest part of my estate, I give and bequeath to my danghter-in-law, Elizabeth Paine, as ffeoffer in trust for the benefit of my wife Frances, one half my now dwelling house during the said Frances life and my share of the Saw Mill during her life. By his first wife, Mary, he had one son, Shubael, born P"eb. 17, 1636. By his second wife, P" ranees, widow of Rev. Jona- than Burr, he had three sons, Jeremiah, Richard, and Will- iam, and one daughter, Hannah. Shubael graduated at Har- vard in 1656, and was afterward settled as a minister at York, Me. He was killed by the Indians near his own house in 1692. William died before arri\ing at bis majority. Richard owned and managed the farm at the brills ; and Jeremiah, born Sept. 14, 1643, was api:)renticed to John Hull, sih'ersmith, in Boston, when t|uite )-()ung, and was afterward judge of the court of common ])leas in Suffolk county from 1702 to 171 5. In the division of William Dummer's estate, Nov. 23, 1680, between his three brothers, Shubael, Jeremiah, and Richartl, DUMMER ACADEMY 317 the farm, in Newbury, occupied by Benjamin Goodrich, was assigned to Shubael and Jeremiah, and the farm occupied by Duncan Stewart was assigned to Richard (Ipswich Deeds, book 4, page 370). At a later date Jeremiah undoubtedly purchased additional land in Newbury, but the deeds of conveyance have not been discovered. He married Anna Atwater, daughter of Joshua At water, Sr., of Boston. Nov. 18, 1 71 2, Jeremiah Dummer, of Boston, and his wife Anna, conveyed to William Dummer, of Boston, merchant, son of the above said Jeremiah and Anna, " houses, lands, and farm, &c., in Newbury, more especially the farm, houses, &c., near unto Rowley Mill upon Easton's River, now in the occupation of Philip Woodbridge and Richard Walker, farmers, being four hundred acres, bounded northerly by land of Mr. Sewall and Joshua Boynton, easterly by the Falls River, westerly by the old road, and southerly by Easton's River ; reserving out of the premises an annuity of j[,20 to the said Jeremiah and his wife" (book 25, page 238). Jeremiah Dummer died May 24, 171 8. He left two sons, Jeremiah and William. Jeremiah graduated at Harvard College in 1699. He was elected by the General Court, in 17 10, commissioner to Eng- land from the province of Massachusetts Bay to assert and defend the rights of the people under the charter granted by the crown. For nearly thirty years he performed the duties of that ofifice with honor to himself and benefit to his con- stituents. He died at Plaistow, England, in 1739. William Dummer, brother of Jeremiah, and founder of \h) ^^^y Dummer Academy, was born in Boston in 1677. Soon after completing his education he went to England, and for several years was acting commissioner of the province of Massachu- setts Bay at Plymouth. He returned to Boston in 171 2. Judge Sewall in his diary, under date of May 28, 171 2, says, .^3^^^ ' Col. Hutchinson surprises us by bringing AT William Dumer whom I know not arrived May 27"^ at Marblehead about 4 weeks passage from Milford Haven. 3i8 OULD XEWBURY November ci-iitccnth of that year he received from his father a deed of tlie farm at Newbury h'alls, as previously stated. It is probable that the mansion house he afterward occupied was built about this time, although there is no evidence to establish the fact beyond a reasonable doubt. After his marriage he resided in Boston, but during the summer months came with his family to Byfield, and devoted DUMMER MANSION. his time and attention to the cult i\ at ion of liis tai"m. "Fhe old liouse, wliicli was for man)' )'ears his sunnnei" home, is still standing. it is now a dormitor)' and boarding-place for pui:)ils connected witli the academy. Its steep roof witli dormei' windows, and the i)eculiar brick projection on the northwesterly end, built, it is saiil, for the acconnnodation of negro slaves, have lieen allowed to remain inidisturbed ; but the tai)estried walls and nnich of the heavy wainscoting of the interior ha\e disappeared. DUMMER ACADEMY 319 William Dummer married, April 26, 17 14, Katherine, daughter of Joseph Dudley, who was then governor of the province, and son of Thomas Dudley, one of the early gov- ernors of the colony. The portrait of Governor Dummer that formerly adorned the parlor of this old mansion house is still in the possession of the trustees of Dummer Academy. It is supposed to have been painted by Robert Feke,* an American artist of some celebrity, who was born at Oyster Bay, L. I., about 1725, and died in Barbadoes, West Indies, about the year 1765. A copy of this portrait, painted by Mr. Frederick P. Vinton,- of Boston, in 1886, hangs in the old senate chamber at the state house in Boston. A portrait of Katherine (Dudley) Dummer, wife of Gov- ernor Dummer, for many years in the possession of a collat- eral branch of the family, was presented by Mrs. Osgood, of West Newbury, in 1822, to the trustees of Dummer Academy, and is still in a good state of preservation. The name of the artist is unknown. Both of these portraits have been reproduced by the half-tone process for the illus- tration of this sketch. June 15, 1 7 16, Colonel Samuel Shute was appointed gov- ernor, and William Dummer deputy governor, of the province. On the fifth day of October, 17 16, they took the oath of office, and entered at once upon the discharge of their duties. An item published in the Ncivs Letter, and quoted by Coffin in the History of Newbury, states that in October, 1716, " Governor Shute, being on his way to Portsmouth, was met by the Newbury troop, and by them escorted to the house of Lieut. Governor Dummer, where he passed the night and was finely entertained." The powers and privileges reserved to the crown in the new charter that had been substituted for the old colonial charter * His first picture is said to have been painted in 1746. Several of his portraits are in the Bowdoin College collection. His best work, from an artistic point of view, is the portrait of Lady Wanton (wife of Joseph Wanton who was Governor of Rhode Island from 1769 to 1775), that now hangs in the Redwood Library at Newport, R. L Another interesting and valuable specimen of his artistic skill is the portrait of Rev. John Callender in the rooms of the Rhode Island His- torical Society at Providence. LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR WILLIAM DUMMER. KATHERINE (DUDLEY) DUMMER, Wife of Lieutenant-Governor William Dummer. 32 2 OULD NEWBURY aroused a strony; fcclini;- of dissatisfaction and distrust. The house of deputies insisted upon a strict construction of its provisions, and persistently opposed the adoption of measures that in any way interfered with the rights of the people. The officers of the crown found it impossible to secure by enactment fixed compensation for their services ; and Gov- ernor Shute, after an administration of six years, perplexed and discouraged by the difficulties of the situation, sailed for England Jan. i, 1723, to induce, if possible, the home govern- ment to interfere in his behalf. He remained in England for nearly six years. During his absence William Dummer occu- pied the gubernatorial chair. Judge Samuel Sewall, a kinsman of Governor Dummer, was at that time a member of the council. In volume 3, page 317, of his Diary, he says : — Jan'v 2, 1722-3. His Honour the L' (lOV (Dummer) takes the oaths in Council as to the Acts relating to Trade and of his office. After M'' Checkley had pray'' the L' Gov'' sent for the Deputies — in and made his Speech. When the Representatives were return'd to their own Cham- ber, I stood up and said : If your Honour and this honourable Board please to give me leave I would speak a Word or two upon this solemn occasion. Although the unerring Providence of God has brought you to the Chair of (Govern- ment in a cloudy and Tempestuous time, yet you have this for your Encouragement, that the People you Have to do with are a part of the Israel of God and you may expect to have of the Prudence and Patience of Moses communicated to you for your Conduct. It is evident that our Almiglity Saviour Counselled the first Planters to remove hither and Settle here, and they dutifully followed his Advice, and therefore He will never leave nor forsake them, nor Theirs ; so that your Honoiu' must needs be happy in sincerely seeking their Happiness and welfare, which your Birth and ]'',ducation will incline you to do. Difficilia qu(P piilclira. I promise myself that they who sit at this Board will yield their l-'aithful Advice to your Honour, according to the Duty of their Place. The L' (iov'' and Council would stand up all the while and they expres.sed a handsome Acceptance of what I had said. I.aiis Deo. In the discharge of the duties of his high office, Gox'ernor Diunmer i)iu-sued a wise and conciliatory i)olicy that won tor him the respect and esteem of all who were in favor of good government and an impartial administration ol existing laws. DUMMER ACADEMY 323 July 28, 1728, William Burnet, who had been appointed by the kini;- to succeed Samuel Shute as governor of the province, aiTived in New England, and assumed the manage- ment of public affairs, with William Dummer as lieutenant- governor. Governor Burnet died Sept. 7, 1729; and Governor Dum- mer was again at the head of the government until June 30, 1730, when Lieutenant-Governor Tailer was appointed to succeed him. The following congratulatory letter from Judge Sewall to his kinsman is published in volume 2, page 275, of Sewall's Letter Book: — Hon'd 6-/r- These are to congratulat your Hon'' and this Province upon your Returning again to be their Lieut. Gov^ and Commander .n chief ' As the Time is dark and difficult, so I hope God will graciously renew your Strength, and anoint you with fresh oyl, whereby you may be enabled prudently and successfully to manage the very weighty Affairs of the Government, once more devolved upon you by Divine Providence, which cannot err, and will not fail those who Trust themn. I thank God who has Reserved you against this juncture of our Dis- tress. And earnestly praying that the God of Peace, and Truth, and Love, may make your last days in this kind to be your best days, take leave, who am your Honor's most humble and most obedient berv . Samuel Sewall. Boston, Septemly the eleventh, 1729. To the Honourable William Dummer Esq", Lieut.-Governour and Com- mander in Chief In and over his Maj^ Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New-England. While holding office for this second short term, Governor Dummer presented to the Byfield Parish a silver communion service, on which his name and the family coat-of-arms were inscribed Of this service only two small communion cups, or chalices, were saved when the meeting-house was burned in 1832. At the close of his administration as governor he was elected to the council for two years. He then retired to private life. His house in Boston was on School Street, separated from the Province House estate by a six-foot passage-way in the rear. His wife, Katherine (Dudley) 324 OULD NEWBURY Dummer, died there Jan. 13, 1752. He died (3ct. 16, 1761, and was buried in the Granary burying ground on Tremont Street in that city. By the terms of his will, recorded in the probate records for Suffolk County, volume 59, page 398, he gave, in trust, to " Rev. Mr. Thomas Foxcroft and Rev. Dr. Charles Chauncy, ministers of the first church in l^oston, and Mr. Nathaniel Dummer, of Newbury, in the County of Essex, my dwelling- house and farm and all my real estate lying and being in Newbury," with instructions that the rents should be first ap- l^ropriated and expended in erecting a school-house on the most convenient part of said farm according to the appoint- ment of the minister of the parish and five of the principal inhabitants freeholders of said parish to be elected at the annual meeting of the parish, and that the annual income thereafter should be " appropriated and set apart towards the maintenance of a grammar school master." In 1762, the first school-house was erected on the Dummer farm at By field. It was a low one-story building, about twenty feet square. Dedicatory services were held h'eb. 28, 1763. Rev. Moses Parsons, then minister of the parish, preached a sermon appropriate to the occasion from the text, " ]^ut the liberal deviseth liberal things, and by liberal things shall he stand" (Isaiah xxxii. 8). The next day, March i, 1763, the school, under the charge of Samuel Moody, of York, Me., as master, commenced its regular sessions. In 1782, an act of incorporation was passed by the General Court, creating a board of trustees and pro- \iding for the management and control of the school under the title of "The Trustees of Dummer Academy in the County of Essex." Master Moody retained his position as instructor until March 25, 1790. Many of his pupils after their graduation became distinguished in j^olitical and professional life. He died at Ivxeter, N. H., Dec. 17, 1790, and was buried in the old graveyard at York, Me. On the stone that marks his gra\'e is the following inscription:-- DUMMEK ACADEMY 325 Integer I'itcF sacterisque punts. Here lies the remains of Samuel Moody, Esq. Pre- ceptor of Dummer Academy, the first institution of the kind in Massachusetts. He left no children to mourn his sudden death, for he died a bachelor, yet his numerous pupils in the United States will ever retain a lively sense of the sociality, industry, integrity and piety he possessed in an unusual degree, as well as the disinterested, zealous, faithful and useful manner he discharged the duties of the Academy for 30 years. He died at Exeter, N. H., December 17"' 1790, aged 70 years. Since its establishment in 1763, Dummer Academy has had its periods of prosperity and depression, but, after more than one hundred and thirty years of continued existence, it is still in successful operation under the charge of Mr. Perley L. Home, A. M. For a more extended account of this institution of learn- ing and the men who have been connected with it as trustees, teachers, and pupils, the reader is referred to the centennial address, delivered by Nehemiah Cleaveland, Aug. 12, 1863, and to the interesting historical paper read by Hon. William D. Northend at the one hundred and twenty-fifth anniversary, June 19, 1888. FATHERLAND FARM. Eben Parsons, the second son of Rev. Moses Parsons, was born in the parsonage at Byfield, P'eb. 27, 1745-6- He attended school at Dummer Academy ; and, after completing his studies there, he sought and obtained employment in Gloucester, and soon after became interested in the fisheries, which were at that time exceedingly prosperous and remun- erative. His enterprise and activity brought him in con- tact with men of skill and experience in the foreign and domestic trade. He gradually extended his business, in- vesting his surplus capital in ship property, and ultimately became one of the largest importers of merchandise in the country. In May, 1767, he married Mary, daughter of Colonel John Gorham, of Barnstable, and a few years later removed to Boston, where he purchased a large and valuable estate on Summer Street, the house and garden occupying all the space between Otis and Devonshire Streets and extending back to Winthrop Square. The finest residences of Boston were in that neighborhood, and noble shade trees with flowering shrubs and spacious gardens gave to the locality an air of comfort and seclusion. In the rear of Mr. Parsons's house stood a large stable, and in front was an enclosed park, or common, where his two cows were pastured. Drake, in his " Old Landmarks of Boston," says on page 381, "As late as 181 5 there was a pasture of two acres in Summer Street, and the tinkling of cow-bells was by no means an uncommon sound there." P^or more than thirty years Mr. Parsons made this house his home ; and at length, with ample means at his command, he determined to buy the old Dummer place at Newbury 328 OULD NEWBURY I'^alls, and tlicrc build a statcl}' summer residence. Sept. 17, 1 80 1, he l)()ui;ht, of Richard Dummer, of Newbury, three parcels of land, the first beini;" bounded and described as follows : — Northerly on the Fall.s river, easterly on the road leading from Byfield meeting house to Moody's Mills, south ea.sterly partly on Shuhael Dum- mer's land and partly on land belonging to the heirs of William Uummer, deceased, southerly on land belonging to the same heirs, and south- westerly, westerly and northwesterly on the tan-yard creek so called, . . . with house, barn and other buildings thereon (Essex Deeds, book 169, page 293). Mrs. A. B. Forbes, in a paper read before the Historical Society of Old Newbury in tbe summer of 1895, and pub- lished in the New England Historical and Genealogical Reg- ister, January, 1896, states that tbe house now standing at tbe b\atherlancl Farm was erected in 1 802. The event was a notable one for tbe inhabitants of that locality ; and the festivities at tbe raising of tbe frame, marred by an accident of a somewhat serious nature, are vividly described by Miss Sarah Ann Emery in tbe Reminiscences of a Nonogenarian, page J^. Jan. 13, 1803, Mr. Parsons bought of Thomas Smith, of Rowley, twelve acres of land adjoining this estate, bounded by the burying ground and also by land belonging to the parsonage. June 4, 1803, he purchased of Shubael Dummer, and July 6, 1803, of Nathaniel Little, Jr., two parcels of land which he added to his farm (Esse.x Deeds, book 172, pages 50 and 240). lie continued to reside in l^oston for several )'ears after this date, but made frequent visits to his country place, which, "out of regard for his father's memory and love for bis native town, be named b'atherland b'arm." He expended a large siuu ot money in building massive walls of hewn stone, seven feet high and three feet thick, about the premises ; in reclaim- ing a large tract of marsh land along the margin of Parker Ri\'er, below tbe falls; and in otherwise imj)ro\ing and beau- lit)'iiig tbe bouse and its surroundings. FATHERLAND FARM 3^9 He was deeply interested in agriculture, and was a large contributor in nianv ways to the advancement of that science, using his commercial facilities in aid of this by the importation of fine breeds of cattle, sheep, and swine for the improvement of American stock, and by bringing from other countries various kinds of seeds, grain, and grasses, as well as scions from foreign fruit and ornamental trees and shrubs. After the death of his wife, Sept. lO, i8io, he removed from Boston to his farm at Newbm-y, and there lived until his decease, Nov. 27, 18 19. He was buried, with other members of his famil)', in the old graveyard at Byfield. His son, Gorham Parsons, born in Gloucester July 27, 1768, was the only surviving child and only heir to the prop- erty. In April, 1790, he married Sarah, daughter of Captain Thomas Parsons, of Newburyport. He resided at Brighton, Mass., until the death of his wife, Dec. 8, 1837, when he sold his estate there, and removed to the Fatherland I^'arm, where he died Sept. 18, 1844, aged seventy-six. His will, dated Sept. 29, 1842, and proved in the month of November, 1844, provides that the farm, with the dwelling-house and other buildings thereon, shall become the property of Gorham Parsons Sargent, a grand-nephew of his wife, son of Hon. Winthrop Sargent, of Philadelphia, Pa. May 29, 1 862, Gorham Parsons Sargent, of Byfield, sold the property to Benjamin Y. Brown, of W'altham ; and a few weeks later, July 7, 1862, it was sold at public auction by the last-named owner to Benjamin B. Poole, of Boston, for $7,300 (book 640, pages 31 and 50). Nov. 30, 1877, Benjamin B. Poole sold the farm with the buildings thereon to Jacob B. Stevens, of Peabody (book 988, page 194) ; and Oct. 24, 1881, Mr. Stevens conveyed the property to Mrs. Susan E. P. P^orbes, wife of Alexander B. Forbes, of Springfield, Mass. (book 1068, page 176). Mrs. P^orbes is a descendant of Susanna Parsons, who was a sister of Eben Parsons, the founder of the P^ather- land P'arm. Mrs. Forbes, with the advice and assistance of her husband, has made some decided improvements in the external appearance of the place during the past fifteen years, especially in the removal of the old barn that formerly stood 330 OULD NEWBURY directly (ippositc the house. The view of the surrounding- country is now much more extended, and the old homestead seems to have regained something of its old-time stateliness, while everything about the grounds betokens tender and appreciative care. THEOPHILUS PARSONS. In the old parsonage house at Byfield there was born Feb. 24, 1750, to Rev. Moses Parsons and his wife Susan, a third son. This son was christened Theophilus.* He was prepared for college by Master Moody at Dummer Academy, and graduated at Harvard College in 1769. He afterward studied law with Theophilus Bradbury at Falmouth, now Portland, Me., and was admitted to practice there in 1774. In October, 1775, some luiglish ships-of-war almost totally destroyed Portland ; and Theophilus Parsons returned to Byfield, and found at his father's house Judge Fdmund Trowbridge, of Cambridge, an eminent lawyer, with loyalist tendencies, who had come to Byfield to escape the violence of the watchful " Sons of Liberty." With the aid and assist- ance of this learned judge, young Parsons made, during the next two years, a thorough and exhaustive study of the principles of common law, and applied himself so assiduously to the work that his health for a time was seriously impaired. After a few weeks of rest and recreation he opened a law office in Newburyport. At a meeting of the inhabitants of the town, held March 27, 1778, Theophilus Parsons, Tristram Dalton, Jonathan Greenleaf, Jonathan Jackson, and Stephen Cross were chosen delegates to the convention held at Ipswich in April of that year for the consideration of ques- tions relating to the principles and provisions of the proposed constitution for the State of Massachusetts. * An old almanac in which the events of the clay were noted by Re\-. Mr. Parsons contains the following account of an interesting incident : — "Theophilus strayed away and was lost June 30, i753, and after much seeking was found m Mr Woodman's Pasture where he had laid down to sleep. May he be found indeed by ye Grace of God, and ye kind Shephard yt loves ye Lambs of his Fold. May there be greater Joy in Heav'n at his conversion than there was with his Parents wh" yy rec'd him safe and sound as Life from ye dead." 332 OULD NEWBURY Mr. rarsons, tli(iuj;h iIkmi a yoimi;' man of t\vcnty-ciL;-ht, wrote the excec(linj;iy able aiul loi;ical report tliat was adopted by tlie convention, publislied in panipblet form, and widely circulated throui;hout the State under the title of "The Result of the Convention of Delegates holden at Ipswich, in the Count}' of Essex, who were de}nited to take into Consideration the Constitution and Vi^xxw of Govern- ment ]:)roposed by the Convention of the State of Massa- chusetts Bay." This famous report is known in history as "The Essex Result." Early in the year 1779, Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, judge of probate for P^ssex County, who then lived on the corner of Washington and Titcomb streets, said to his daughter Eliza- beth that on a cer- tain day she must provide dinner for a few friends whom he named ; and among the number was " Mr. Parsons." " Do you mean Mr. Parsons whom everybody is talking about .'' " said Miss p:iizabeth. "Why, I shall not dare to utter a word." "Well," answered the judge, "you need not. He will talk for }'ou and himself, too, if }'ou wish it." The sequel shows that "he talked then and afterward well enough to win a suit which he used to say was worth all the others he had ever gained in his life ; for in less than a year after that dimier he married, Jan. 13, 1 780, Miss l^lizabeth Cireenleaf." At this time his law business was i^irosperous, and his position in the social and political woiid was well established. .Students f|-oni distant towns, attracted b\- his piotessional THEOPHILUS PARSONS. TIIEOPHILUS PARSONS ZZl) ability and intellectual superiority, came to him for advice and instruction. Rufus King, born in Scarboro, Me., and afterward senator to congress from the State of New York, was for several years a student in his office, and in 1782 and 1783 was elected warden of St. Paul's Church. He also represented Newburyport in the legislature of 1783, and was a member of the constitutional convention of 1788. John Ouincy Adams, afterward president of the United States, and Robert Treat Paine, son of the signer of the Declaration of Independence, of the same name, were fitted and prepared for the practice of law under the care and direction of Mr. Parsons. A poem, somewhat satirical in tone, but still a graceful contribution to the literature of that day, entitled " A Vision," written by John O. Adams, created considerable excitement and some consternation among the young ladies of Newburyport, who, under fictitious names, were described in glowing language by the poet. The theme and its treatment indicate that the gifted author was not entirely indifferent to the fascinations and attractions of the opposite sex, and occasionally found in female society a relief from the tedium of long-continued study. In 1788, a convention of delegates from the various towns in Massachusetts assembled in Boston to determine whether the Federal constitution should be adopted or rejected by the State. Theophilus Parsons was a member of the con- vention with Jonathan Titcomb, Benjamin Greenleaf, and Rufus King from Newburyport, and Ebenezer March, Enoch Sawyer, and Tristram Dalton from Newbury. The proceedings of the convention were of great impor- tance, and were so regarded throughout the country at that time. It was thought at the beginning of the session that a majority of the delegates were opposed to the adoption of the constitution. John Hancock and Samuel Adams were the two most important members of the cc^nvention. " It was generally supposed that, while they were not friendly to each other, they agreed in a decided leaning against the constitution ; and, if both, or if either, had become pro- THEOPHILUS PARSONS 335 fessedly and actively hostile to it, its adoption would prob- ably have been impossible." The means and methods by which Hancock and Adams, on whom so much depended, were brought over to support the friends of the constitution, are given with great clearness in the memoir of Chief-Justice Parsons, written by his son, Prof. Theophilus Parsons, and published in 1859. The amendments, or conciliatory resolutions as they are some- times called, offered by Hancock and adopted by the con- vention, were carefully prepared by Parsons ; and at his suggestion, or through his influence, Hancock was prevailed upon to support them with a brief speech, and so gain credit with the F'ederalists for saving the constitution. Samuel Adams declared himself satisfied with the proposed amend- ments ; and, after a brief debate, a vote was taken which resulted in a majority of nineteen in favor of the adoption of the constitution out of a total of three hundred and fifty-five votes. The plan, devised by Theophilus Parsons, had its desired effect ; and the difficulties and dangers apprehended from an adverse action of the convention were averted by his political skill and sagacity. After the adoption of the constitution he gave but little time or attention to politics. His professional duties called him frecjuently to the principal towns and cities of New England and occasionally to New York and Washington. He occupied his leisure hours with books and social converse at his own house, seldom attending a public meeting of any kind during the last twenty years of his life. May 2, 1789, he bought of Benjamin Greenleaf seventy-six square rods of land on the corner of Green and Union (now Washington) streets, bounded on the northwesterly and southwesterly sides by land of the grantor. At the time of this sale all the land now included between Green, Washing- ton, Court, and High streets was the property of Benjamin Greenleaf, to whom it was conveyed by Nathaniel Tracy Dec. 19, 1783 (book 145, page 145, and book 151, page 122). On the land purchased in 1789, Theophilus Parsons built a large and substantial house, with stables adjoining. A low, :iZC> OULD Nl-.IVBURY onc-story buildint;' on the easterly corner of the lot was used as a law ofifice. Tlie dwelling-house is still standing in a good state of preservation, tliough somewhat modernized by recent owners. The view that accom[)anies this sketch is taken from a drawing made b)' I-'rancis Thurlow. The artist has iM-acti- cally reproduced the house as it was when owned and occu- pied by Benjamin Hale, previous to 1850. At that date no changes or alterations had been made, and it stt)od sub- stantially as it was when first built. The descripti\-e details for the sketch were furnished by Mr. Moses E. Hale, who lived with his father in the house at the date above men- tioned. Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, father of Mrs. Parsons, died Jan. 13, 1799; and the following year Mr. Parsons removed with his family to l-)Oston. He occupied a house on Brom- field Street until 1801, when he bought a fine estate on the easterly side of Pearl Street. April 25, 1803, he sold his house, stable, and lands in Newburyport to Leonard Smith (l^ssex Deeds, book 179, page 198). The subsequent conveyances of this property are as follows : — March 23, 1809, Leonard Smith to Jt)hn I'eabody, of New- buryport (book 186, page 29). Dec. 31, 1810, John Peabody to Leonard Smith (book 192. page 164). Jan. 2, 181 I, Leonard Smith to Nathaniel Smith (book 192, ])age 168). Jan. 22, 18 1 3, execution in fa\or of INIichael Little, New- buryjiort ALu'ine Insurance Compan)', anil olheis ( h^.x cent ions, book No. I, i)age 288). Ai)ril 29, 1 814, Newbur)|)ort Marine Insuiance COmpau)' to ( )li\er Prescott (book 204, page 145). Jan. I, 1 8 14, I'^Dcnezer Wheelwright, Paul Thurlo, and Da\'id Moody to Oliver Prescott (book 204, and pages 49 and 50). THKOPHILUS PARSONS 337 June 2 1, 1828, Charles Prescott, manner, Harriet Prescott, Caroline Prescott, and Anna Prescott, all of Boston, 19/24 of land and buildings to Sarah Hale, wife of Benjamin Hale, of Newburyport (book 250, page 5). Sept. 22, 1828, Lucy O. Prescott, of Boston, 5/24 of land and buildings to Sarah, wife of Benjamin Hale, of Newbury- port (book 250, page 61). March 7, 1832, Benjamin Hale and wife Sarah to Eunice W. Hale (book 265, page 132). March 7, 1832, lumice W. Hale to Benjamin Hale (book 265, page 132). Feb. 10, 185 1, Moses E. Hale, executor of the will of Benjamin Hale, to Henry Johnson (book 440, page 144). June I, 1852, Moses E. Hale, trustee under the will of Benjamin Hale, to Henry Johnson (book 461, page 174). June 7, 1852, Henry Johnson to Elizabeth LeBreton Wills (book 461, page 174). April 13, 1885, Elizabeth LeBreton Wills, widow, to Nathaniel Dole, of New York (book 1147, page 44). July 5, 1886, Nathaniel Dole to Archbishop John J. Williams, of Boston (book 11 76, page 182). Since 1886 there has been no change in ownership. The house is at present occupied by the Sisters of Charity in connection with their work in the parochial school of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Newburyport. In 1806, Chief-Justice Dana resigned the position that he had honorably filled for fourteen years, and Theophilus Par- sons was appointed to the office thus made vacant. At the earnest solicitation of friends he accepted the appointment, and served as chief justice of the supreme court of Massa- chusetts until his death, Oct. 30, 181 3. In the summer of that year he complained of ill-health and lack of strength and vitality. During his last illness his mind remained for a time unimpaired, then drowsiness deepened into lethargy. His thoughts, when he could no longer control them, went back to his professional and judi- cial duties. When he spoke, it was as a judge giving answers 33^ OULD NEWBURY aiul directions. After a long and painful silence, when he seemed to have kjst the power of articulation, he suddenly revived, and with perfect distinctness said: "Gentlemen of the jury, the case is closed, and in your hands. You will please retire, and agree upon your verdict." He then quietly and peacefully breathed his last. PIPE STAVE HILL. In the division of the upper commons, so called, among the freeholders and inhabitants of the town of Newbury, m 1686, the first division of the freehold lots began at the Emery farm just above the Artichoke River, each lot stretch- ino- from the Merrimack River to the Bradford road. In this division, lot No. 12 was given to William Chandler for William Berry's freehold right. It was bounded on its west- erly side by a four-rod highway to Indian River landu.g-place. Lot No 13, on the westerly side of this way, was allotted to Joseph Knight for Richard Littlehale's freehold right. At a later d^e this way, as laid out to the landmg-place, was found to be inconvenient ; and the proprietors of the town, at a meeting held Oct. 30, 1706, voted to authorize the selectmen to lay out a new way on the westerly side of Joseph Knight's lot in place of the old one on the easterly side This vote was promptly executed. Under date of Nov I, 1706, the Proprietors' Records contain the report in full of Nathaniel Coffin, Caleb Moody, and Abiel Somerby. selectmen, making the exchange as proposed and fixmg the bounds and limits of the new way. In concluding the report the selectmen say that Y^ wood & timber on s'' way is to abide and remain for ye use of sy. The land con\eyed by the above deed remained in the possession of the proprietors of the town of Newbury, with other common and undivided lands, until the great division 348 OULD NEWBURY in 1686. At llKit date the "freehold lots," extendin*;- in two great di\isions on each side of the l^radford road, from John I'jiiery's farm at Artichoke River to John Gerrish's farm at the Bradford (now Groveland) line, were assigned to the freeholders ; while a central strip on the southeast side of the south way, or middle road as it is now called, was surveyed and classified, in eight great divisions, under the name of " rate lots." The first division extended from the Bradford line to the Crane Neck Hill road. The second and third occupied the space between the Crane Neck Hill road and the Ilsley Hill road. The fourth and fifth were bounded by the Ilsley Hill road and the road back of Indian Hill, formerly known as Merrill's lane. The sixth division in- cluded the land between Merrill's lane and the lane leading to Indian Hill. The last lot in the sixth di\ision was assigned to Joseph Downer. On the map of the West Parish of Newbur)', pub- lished in 1729, the road leading to Indian Hill is called Downer's lane; and house No. 146, next to the line that separates the East from the West Parish, was owned and occupied at that date by Andrew Downer. The adjoining estate, No. 147, was the property of Stephen Sayor, whose descendants still reside there. Other lots on Downer's lane were assigned to John Web- ster, Jr., Dr. John Dole, Jonathan Clarke, Hugh Pike, Moses Pilsbury, Matthew Pettingell, William Noyes, John Moody, Stephen Greenleaf, Jr., Thomas P'ollansby, lulward Poore, and others. Most of these lot holders, having no desire to locate in West Newbury, sold their possessions in that locality ; and the land assigned to several of them in the great di\ision of 1686 was, by exchange and by purchase, ultimately made a jxirt of the estate now known as Indian Hill 1^'arm. On the map of the W'est Parish, i)re\i<)usl)' referred to, the house of Samuel Poore^, on Downer's lane, numbered 148, is correctly designated. How long before the jniblication of this map Samuel Poore"^ resided there is uncertain. His grandfather, Samuel Pooie', was one of the earlv INDIAN HIIL 349 settlers of Newbury. He bought a house and land of Tristram Coffin April 15, 1652, bounded on the northwest by land that he had previously bought of Richard Kent ; but the description is otherwise so vague and indefinite that it is impossible to say just where the land was located. He died Dec. 31, 1683. Samuel Poore^, was born Oct. 14, 1653, and married to Rachel Bailey Feb. 16, 1679-80. He owned the house and land on the west bank of the Merrimack River, afterward sold to Samuel Moggaridge and occupied as a ship-yard. The narrow way, now Merrimack court, was formerly known as Poore's lane, and is so designated in deeds written in the last century. He sold March 9, 1707-8, to his son, Samuel Poore-'^, two acres of land in Newbury, bounded on the west by land belonging to his son SamueF, on the south- east by a lane or highway leading to the Merrimack River, northerly on land of Job Pillsbury, and northeast on land belonging to the grantor (book 32, page 177). He died Nov. 29, 1727. His will, dated Jan. 20, 1725-6, and proved Jan. I, 1727-8, gave all his real estate and most of his personal estate, excepting a few small legacies, to his wife Rachel. On the same day that the will was proved, Samuel Poore^, Sarah, widow of Joseph Brown, Timothy and Eleanor Putnam, Thomas and Rebecca Smith, conveyed " to our mother, Rachel Poore, widow of our father, Samuel Poore^, our interest in our father's estate, real and personal " (book 54, page 117). Sept. II, 1728, Rachel Poore, widow, sold to Samuel Mog- garidge a portion of this real estate (book 54, page 140) ; and P'eb. 28, 1732-3, she sold to Samuel Moggaridge about ninety rods additional, bounded easterly on a way leading from Poore's lane to the river, " it being all my land on the northwest side of said way" (book 63, page 4). Samuel Poore^, son of SamueP and Rachel Poore, was born June 23, 1683. He married Hannah, daughter of Benjamin Morse, in September, 1705 ; and lived for several years with his father in the old homestead near the Merrimack River. 350 OULD NKWBUKY March 9, 1707-8, he bougiit, as prcxiously stated, two acres of land belon<;ing; to that estate. June i, 1709, he bought of Joseph Goodrich a thirty-acre rate lot in Xe\vbur\-, bounded northerly by land of Deacon Cutting Noyes, southerly by land of Corporal Stephen Sawyer, westerly and easterly by highways (book 32, page 185). This "rate lot" was evidently the first land i)urchased by Samuel Poore'^ in the vicinity of Indian Hill. Other lots were added at a later date, and now constitute what is known as Indian Hill Farm. The house formerly standing on this lot was probably erected during the year 1709 or 1710; and Samuel Poore"'^ and his family were certainly living there when the maj) of the West Parish was published in 1 729. Some years later the house was struck by lightning and completely destroyed. A new dwelling was erected on the same site, and Samuel I^oore-^ continued to reside there until his death, in 1769. His will, dated Dec. 19, 1768, and proved Aug. 28, 1769, after making some small bequests, gave the rest and residue of his estate, including the farm upon which he then lived, to his son Benjamin-*. Benjamin Poore*, the son, was born at Indian Hill Sept. 5, 1723, married Judith, daughter of Daniel and Judith Noyes, in February, 1 749, and settled on the farm with his father. He died intestate March 18, 1817, aged ninety-three years and six months. Two daughters, Judith and Abigail Poore, and one son, Daniel Noyes Poore^ inherited the house and farm. The daughters were never married, and resided on the place until their decease. Daniel Noyes Poore" was born July 16, 1758, graduated at Harvard College in 1777, and two years later was a practising physician in West Newbury. He li\-ed with his sisters on the farm until his marriage, Jul}" 3, 1796, to Lydia, only child of John and Mary (Little) Merrill. He then bought a dwelling-house with land under and adjoining the same on the Bradford road in West New- bur}', where he resided until his death, which occurred Jan. 23, 1837. His eldest son, l^enjamin'', boi'n Sej^t. 23, 1797, mari"ied Mar}- I'erley, daughter of Allen and Mar}- (Burroughs) IXDIAX HILL 351 Dodge, Nov. 29, 18 19. He lived for a few years in New- buryport, where his eldest child, Ben : Perley Poores was born Nov. 2, 1820, and afterward removed to New York City. March 23, 1825, the will of Daniel Noyes Poore^ (proved ten or twelve years later), was duly signed and executed, giving to his grandson, Ben : Perley Poore', one third part of Indian Hill P^arm in West Newbury, with all the build- ings thereon, containing about sixty acres of mowing and tillage land, sixty acres of pasture land, and about seven acres of marsh land. On the same day Abigail Poore and Judith Poore, in separate wills, each gave to Ben: Perley Poore', " son of my nephew, Benjamin Poore," one third part of the same estate. Many years previous to this date another house (the third one at Indian Hill) was erected for the use of the family ; and the old unoccupied house was used for the storage of hay, grain, fruit, and vegetables. In 1832, Benjamin Poore'^ visited PLngland and Scotland with his son, Benjamin Perley Poore', then a young lad. After his return he decided to repair the old house, and make it an interesting and attractive dwelling-place for himself and family. He built projections and wings on either side, added a picturesque front porch, and provided quaint-looking win- dows, with diamond-shaped panes, similar in style and appear- ance to those seen in England a century ago. When the alterations and improvements were completed, he removed his family to the new apartments provided for them. The house made vacant by their removal was then taken down, and the land under and adjoining the same was graded and converted into a lawn. Benjamin Poore^ continued to reside at the farm until the year 1 849, when the discovery of gold in California induced him to visit the Pacific coast, where his wife and daughters joined him a year or two later. He afterward went to Hong Kong for the purpose of establishing a line of steamers between that port and San Francisco. The vessel in which he sailed, on the homeward voyage, was wrecked in the China Sea, and he was drowned July 23, 1853. BEN: PERLEY POORE. IXDIAX HILL 353 Ben : Perley Poore", after his return from New York, resided, with his father, mother, and sisters, at Indian Hill and attended school at Dummer Academy. Before he was twenty-one years of age he was the editor and publisher of a newspaper in Athens, Ga. In 1841, he went to Brussels as an attache of the American legation, and remained there until 1844, when he was authorized by the Massachusetts legislature to procure copies of all the important documents relating to the American Revolution on file in the archives of the French government. Ten large volumes of valuable manuscript papers and two volumes of maps were sent to the state house in Boston as the result of his labors and inves- tigations in Paris. When the work was accomplished, he returned home, and soon after was engaged as Washington correspondent of the Boston Atlas. He married, June 12, 1849, Virginia, daughter of Francis and Mary (Thompson) Dodge, of Georgetown, D. C. He was for a short time editor of the Boston Bee, and afterward editor and publisher of the American Sentinel. In 1854, he was employed as Washing- ton correspondent of the Boston Journal, which position he held for more than twenty years. At the same time he was clerk of the senate committee on printing, and also clerk of the committee on foreign relations. He had a natural love for military life, and devoted much time and attention to the study of military tactics. At the beginning of the Civil War, in 1861, he was appointed major, and afterward lieuten- ant-colonel, of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment. Under the command of General Benjamin F. Butler this regiment rendered important service in keeping the way open from New York and Philadelphia, through Maryland, to Washing- ton, D. C. In the month of December following. Major Poore returned to his duties at the capital. During the next ten years he published, in several volumes, compilations of the Federal and State charters, the various treaties nego- tiated by the United States, and other papers of historical value. In 1882, he sent to the press the "Life of General Burnside," and in 1886 he published his "Reminiscences of Sixty Years in the National Metropolis." INDIAN HILL 355 His daughter, Alice Poore'^, born at Indian Hill Aug. 27, 1854, married Frederick Strong Moseley, of Newburyport, Sept. 29, 1880. She died at Indian Hill July 12, 1883, leaving one son, Ben : Perley Poore Moseley, born at Indian Hill Aug. 20, 1 88 1. Ben : Perley Poore' died in Washington, D. C, May 30, 1887, and was buried in West Newbury, near his own home and the home of his ancestors. His will, dated Oct. 29, 1884, and proved July 5, 1887, placed the house and farm in trust for the use and benefit of his wife, Virginia Dodge Poore, during her life, and at her decease provided for the transfer of the property, on certain specified conditions, to his grandson, Ben : Perley Poore Moseley. These conditions were not complied with ; but early in the year 1 894 a deed, signed by Mrs. Poore and other legatees under the will, con- veyed the estate to P^-ederick Strong Moseley, who is now the sole owner of Indian Hill P^arm. Mrs. Virginia Dodge Poore died in Washington, D. C, March 10, 1894, and was buried in West Newbury, Mass., by the side of her husband and daughters. The house, repaired and remodeled by Benjamin Poore'' in 1832, was originally a plain wooden structure with a heavy oak frame, low ceilings, and a steep pointed roof, without any special architectural beauty ; but stone towers and turrets have been added from time to time until it is now one of the most notable and picturesque residences in New England. The main hall opens upon a porch, or veranda, overrun with honeysuckle, clematis, and other climbing vines. An- cestral portraits, ancient armor, swords, battle-axes, shields, helmets, and spears hang upon the walls. On one side are cheerful and attractive parlors. On the other is the dining- room, where distinguished guests, prominent in social and political life, have been entertained. The continental rooms, in the rear of the hall, fitted and furnished with cooking- utensils and household furniture in common use two cen- turies ago, are surprisingly realistic and unique. Constructed from materials that once formed a part of some of the 356 OULD NEWBURY famous historic building's of Massachusetts, — a staircase from the Tracy house, Newburyport, wainscoting from the residence of Governor Hancock, an elaborate mantelpiece from the old Province House, Boston, — they now serve as an appropriate repository for a large collection of interest- ing relics and souvenirs. In one room, old-fashioned fire- arms, powder-horns, cutlasses, bows and arrows, and Indian relics of every description are displayed ; while in other apartments rich and rare specimens of antique furniture, pewter ware and old china, gathered from famous New Eng- land homes, reveal to the student of history a glimpse of the comforts and luxuries of the old colonial days. THE SAWYER HOUSE. In outward appearance this old house has not been mate- rially changed or modified for more than a century. Altera- tions and improvements have not marred its proportions or destroyed its individuality. It has been permitted to grow old, gracefully and modestly, without effort to adapt it to the wants of modern civilization. It is one of the best speci- mens of early New England architecture to be found in this vicinity. It stands facing the south, with a low, slanting roof and quaint windows in the rear looking out upon the road that leads from "the plains," in Newburyport, to Cur- zon's mills at the mouth of the Artichoke River. It is now unoccupied and sadly out of repair. It is impossible to say with certainty just when this house was built, but evidently it was in existence previous to 1696 ; for Zachariah Ayer sold to Shubael Long Oct. 24, 1696, seven acres of land in Newbury, with house, barn, etc., thereon, bounded on the north by the way to Stephen Emery's mill, on the south by land he had previously sold to Thomas Eollansbee, and on the east and west by common or undivided land. This property was bought by Zachariah Ayer of John Kent ; but no record of that deed can be found, and the date of transfer is therefore uncertain (Essex Regis- try of Deeds, book 12, page 86). July 9, 1707, Shubael Long, of Newbury, sold to Josiah Sawyer, of Newbury, seven acres of land in Newbury, with buildings thereon, bounded on the north by road to the mill, on the south by land of John Sawyer, and on the east and west by common or undivided land (book 26, page 190). On the map of the West Parish of Newbury, drawn by John Brown and dated Sept. 15, 1729, the house described in \Jgmm ■1 h :i 1 1 f 'A'.dl:'; ^ ' m ^ i> THE SAWYER HOUSE 359 the above conveyance is marked No. 23 ; and in the list of owners, on the margin of the map, the name of Josiah Sawyer appears opposite that number. He owned and occupied the house for nearly half a century, and bought other land in that vicinity (book 48, page 59). William Sawyer, who was the first of that name to settle in Newbury, was his paternal ancestor ; and Samuel, son of William and Ruth Sawyer, born Nov. 22, 1646, was his father. Samuel Sawyer married, March 13, 1671, Mary, daughter of John Emery. They had several children, among them Josiah, born January 20, 1681. Josiah Sawyer married, Jan. 22, 1708, Tirzah, daughter of Thomas Bartlett. They had the following named children : — Josiah, born April 12. 1709. Moses, born Feb. 21, 171 1. Tirza, born Nov. 7, 1713- Israel, born Oct. 9, 171 7. Gideon, born Dec. 15, 1719- James, born May 12, 1722. The will of Josiah Sawyer, dated June 25, 1755, and proved May 3, 1756, mentions sons Josiah and Gideon, and makes son Moses executor and residuary devisee of the estate. The will also mentions "daughter Tirza, wife of Reuben French, of Salisbury." The other children were probably not living at that date. Moses Sawyer, residuary devisee under the will of his father, retained possession of the homestead until his death. In the settlement of his estate his widow, Hannah Sawyer, was appointed administratrix Oct. 26, 1778; and two years later (in 17S0) one-half of the house, with about eighteen acres of land " on the road to Bagley's Mill," was assigned to Hannah Sawyer for dower, and the other half of the house was set off to her son, Joseph Sawyer. In 1802, the dower assigned to the widow Hannah Sawyer was divided ; and that portion of the house and land belonging to her was awarded to her son Joseph, who then became owner of the entire estate, which is described in the records at that date as " bounded on the north by the road to Peck's Mill." 360 OULD NEWBURY Joseph Sawyer died April 22, I 83 I. His will, dated Oct. 26, 1826, and jM'oved the last Tuesday in June, 1831, gave to his wife Nancy the use of all his real estate during her life, and at her decease two-thirds of the property to his brother, Thomas Sawyer, and one-third to his sister, Hannah Little, for her life, and after her death to her daughters, Hannah Little, Judith Little, Caroline Little, and Harriet Little. Nancy Sawyer was appointed executrix of her hus- band's will, and under license from the court sold, July 31, 1832, the house and land to William Cutter Crockett (book 304, page 112); and on the same day the property was recon- veyed to her. She married, Nov. 6, 1832, Timothy Pender- gast, and removed to New Market, N. H. June 26, 1839, Thomas Sawyer, of Corinth, \X., sold to Hannah Little, of Newbury, all his right and interest in the property (book 960, page 33); and March 30, 1872, Nancy Pendergast, of New Market, N. H., sold her right and inter- est to Richard Roberts, of Newbury (book 898, page 239). May 12, 1873, Richard Roberts conveyed the property to Dennis Donahue (book 898, page 239). July 24, 1877, Nathaniel Pierce, administrator of the estate of Hannah Little, released to Dennis Donahue all claim upon the land and buildings (book 983, page 241). Sept. 13, 1892, Dennis Donahue sold the property to Daniel M. Davis (book 1356, page 470). Dec. 5, 1892, Daniel M. Davis conveyed to Frederick S. Moseley the house and land above described (book 1363, page 279). When one-half this house, the eastern barn, one-half of the well, and about eighteen acres of land were set off to Hannah Sawyer, widow of Moses Sawyer, and the other half of the house and well, with the remainder of the land and the barn and buildings thereon, were assigned tt) her son, Josej^h Sawyer, it became necessary to add two or three rooms to the house, with a se])arate cellar, for the acconnnodation of the occupants. The old chinine}' was made to ser\e two THE SAWYER HOUSE 361 families by the addition of a new flue on the northerly side, extending frt)m the cellar to the top of the main chimney, as shown in the half-tone print accompanying this sketch. A smaller but quite substantial chimney was also provided for the new rooms on the extreme westerly end. The style and finish of the house is exceedingly plain and simple. The interior is arranged with an eye to com- fort as well as convenience, with many quaint old closets and cupboards in odd, out-of-the-way corners. Heavy beams, unpainted and brown with age, project from the walls and ceilings ; and large, open fireplaces seem abundantly able to light and heat the rude and scantily furnished rooms. But the most picturesque and attractive feature of this old house is the low, slanting roof, with rafters on the northerly side extending from the ridge pole almost to the ground. Houses similar in style of architecture and workmanship were not uncommon in New England a century ago, but they are rapidly disappearing. This one, especially noticeable for its distinctive peculiarities and typical character, is worthy of a place among the notable houses of " Ould Newbury." THE BURYING GROUND AT SAWYER'S HILL. The history of this old buryins,^ ground is somewhat vague and uncertain. It is intimately associated with the organiza- tion of the second church in Newbury, now the first in West Newbury. The incidents of the long struggle that finally culminated in the building of a new meeting-house at the west end of the town are interesting and suggestive. It appears that early in 1685 a petition was presented to the inhabitants of Newbury, asking that a more convenient place of worship may be provided for the use of those living at a great distance from the old meeting-house. The reply to this petition was not satisfactory ; and after some delay a building suitable for the purpose was erected by sixteen persons, at their own expense, in the vicinity of "the plains." In an old memorandum book, Richard Bartlett states that "he bought boards and shingles and nails for the meeting- house," under the date 16S9; and it is probable that the building was erected during that year. March 11, 1690, a committee, consisting of fifteen persons from the west end, were present at a meeting of the town, and made a strong appeal for aid and assistance, saying, "It is well known how far we have proceeded as to a meeting-house," and proposing that two ministers should be employed at the public expense, one to preach at the east end of the town, and the other at the west end ; or, if the majority should be unwilling to consent to this plan, that liberty be given the west end people to employ a minister at their own charge. In thfe absence of any definite vote upon this question, an effort was made in 1691 to engage the services of Mr. Edward Thompson as minister at the plains by a number of persons living in that neighborhood. The town objected, and 364 OULD NEWBURY on tlic I4tli of Jul)- "(lid !))• vote nKinifcst their dislike aj;"ainst it, or ai;ainst any other minister whom the)' should call, until ye church and towne are a_!j;reed upon it, looking upon such a thing to be an intrusion ujjon ye church and towne." Anxious to secure for themsel\-es and their families the privileges of religious worship, and realizing that some de- cided stej) must be taken to accomplish that result, several of the inhabitants of the west end of the town petitioned the General Court "to be established a people by themselves for the maintenance of the ministry among them." To this petition the town made serious objection, and appointed a committee to prepare an answer remonstrating against the proposed division. During the year 1692, the struggle between the two fac- tions continued unabated, each side asserting its rights and striving to maintain its position. May 12, 1693, the "towne voted that Mr. John Clarke be called to assist Mr. Richard- son in the work of the ministry at the west end of the towne, to preach to them one )'ear in order to farther settlement, and also to keep a grammar schoole." In a petition to the General Court, dated May 31, 1693, the selectmen of Newbury state that a difference exists " be- tween the people of Newbury and those in the west end of the town about calling a minister ; that the west end people had called Mr. Edward Thompson to preach to them without accjuainting the minister, church, or towne with their pro- ceedings in that affair, the which when our town did under- stand that they were about to bring him into town, the town being met to consider of it by theii' xote did declare that they were against his coming, or any other until the church and towne were agreed. Yet they ]X'rsisted in their design, and brought him in, and when he was come in our minister warned him to forbear preaching till the chui"ch and town were agreed ; }et he j^resumed to set up a lecture, and preach without any allowance of ministers, church, or town, whi(-h when the church did understand lhe\' did call him to account, and declaix'd their dislike of his irregulai' pi-oceetling. BURYING GROUND AT SAWYER'S HILL 365 Yet he hath persisted in these irregularities to the great dis- turbance of our peace, and since upon the request of severall of the inhabitants of the west end of our towne, called another minister, Mr. John Clark, who hath accepted of the call ; and yet there are severall who refuse to accept of him, pretending they are bound to said Thompson, which agree- ment they made when the rest of their neighbors were about to make application to the town, which was since the late law was made to direct the town to call the minister." In reply to this petition a committee of west end people appeal to the governor and council iox help, and say : — We have been endeavoring above these five years to have the public worship of God established among us on the Lord's day for reasons such as these. The bulk of us live four miles from the ould meeting house ; some, six or seven, (^ur number is above three hundred. Few of us have horses ; and, if we could get down to the ould meeting house, it is impossible it should receive vis with them, so that many (would) lay out of doors, the house is so little. Some of us have groaned under this burden this thirty years, some grown old, some sickly, and although we were favored with the liberty granted by King James the Second, and had erected an house to the worship of God on our own cost and charge, and acquainted the two next justices with our intent before we built the said house. A committee of five were appointed to come on the place ; but before they had finished their work the governor arrived, which caused them to desist. We complained to the governor, who granted us protection from paying to the ould meeting house, then counter- manded it. The town had a meeting, — they intend to delude us by granting the help of a schoolmaster at sometimes for one yeare. We believe our neighbors would be glad to see us quite tired out. We beg the honorable court to establish peace among us and a rational dividing line. Rev. John Clark having declined the call to preach at the west end, the town invited Rev. Christopher Toppan to ac- cept the position for one year. This arrangement, however, was not satisfactory ; and Sept. 5, 1694, a committee, consist- ing of Joshua Brown, John Ordway, and Samuel Bartlett, petitioned the General Court in behalf of the company that had erected a meeting-house at their own expense, and supplied themselves with a minister, requesting the hon- 366 OULD NEWBURY orable court " to take some effectual care for the relief of the petitioners and for the quiet of the whole town, the peace whereof is now so dani;"er()usl)- interrupted." I'^indin*;" it impossible to continue tlie strui^gle with any prosj^ect of success, the freemen of the town came together, and wisely concluded to accept the ine\itable. Dec. 21, 1694, a connnittce of five was appointed "to draw up articles and proposals in order to setting off part of the west end of the towne " as a separate parish ; and Jan. i, 1695, the town voted "that ri}ie Stave Hill, near Daniel Jaques' house, shall be the place for the meeting house, and those that live nearest to that place shall pay to the ministry there, and those that \\\c nearest to the old meeting house shall pay there, the inhabitants at the west end to choose a minister for themselves, only Mr. 'rhom}«on excepted. The meeting house to stand where it do until the major part of them see cause to remove it." In December of the same year the town, at the request of the inhabitants of the west end, " trranted them five acres of land on the east side of Arti- choke ri\'er for a pasture for the ministr)' and one acre of land near the west meeting house, and when the major part shall see cause to remove the said meeting house, the land shall be at the disposal of the towne to procure land for the ministry, near the wx^st meeting house, when removed." Apparently, the controversy was ended. Quiet was re- stored, and for ten or fifteen years at least the peace of the community was undisturbed. The quarrels and dissensions that came at a later date, with the incidents that led to the building of Queen Anne's Cha]K'l, are briell)' described in the following sketch. In the absence of any definite action on the part of the town to establish a bur\'ing gi'ound at the west end. it is reasonable to su])pose tliat the new })arish would take such steps as might be necessar)- to su])pl}' tlie deficienc)-. In the grant of land fioni the town of Newbui")', dated I )ec. iS. 1695, there is "one acre near tlie west meeting lionse " that the i)arish ma)' ha\'e approi)rialed and used lor burial pur- BrRYIiVG GROUXD AT SAWYER'S HILL 367 poses, and afterward enclosed with a suitable stone wall in compliance with the following \otes : — March 25. 1707-N. the parisli voted y' y l)urving place of al)out an acre of land shall be fenced in with a stone wall, and allso a sufficient gate. March 22. 1 70S-9, Voted that it should be left to the discretion of the Comm''' to fence in the burying place either with board fence or stone wall. These votes, taken from the records of the West Parish church, now the First Parish of West Newbury, clearly indi- cate that a burial place, under the control of the parish, was in existence at that date ; and tradition asserts that it was then, and has been ever since, known as the Sawyer Hill burying ground. At the present time there is a substantial stone wall about the place, with two large gates for the con- venience of those who desire to enter the enclosure. It is within the limits of what is now the city of Newburyport, nearl)' three miles away from the centre of population, on the road leading to Curzon's mill. In this quiet and retired sj:)ot are buried Rev. Moses Hale, one of the first pastors of the W^est Parish church, Colonel Moses Little, an officer in the Revolutionary army, and also representatives of the Emery, Sawyer, Poore, Moody, Merrill, Curzon, and other families of prominence in that neighborhood. Most of the graves are marked by headstones, but many of the inscriptions upon them cannot now be deciphered. It is, therefore, impossible to give the date of the first inter- ment with accuracy. The oldest stone marks the grave of Mrs. Hannah Bartlett, who died May i, 1705. Her son Stephen was the father of Josiah Bartlett, who was the first to vote for, and the second to sign, the Declaration of Independence. QUEEN ANNE'S CHAPEL AND BELLEVILLE CEMETERY. In 1693, the law relating to the settlement and sujiport of ministers was amended by the General Court ; and the ma- jority in any church, legally established, in any town in tlic province were authorized to elect a pastor, " and all the in- habitants and rateable estates lying within such town, or part of a town or place limited by law," were made taxable for the maintenance of public worship. After the long and fierce struggle which resulted in the formation of a new parish at the west end of the town of Newbury a committee was appointed at the first meeting of the parish, recorded Dec. 24, 1695, "to build and Repair y'' West meeting house and to build and repair y ministry house." From subsequent votes it is evident that the meet- ing-house then standing on the plains, erected at the expense of a few individuals residing in that vicinity, was enlarged, repaired, and made ready for service. July 24, 1696, the parish voted "to confirm Rev. Samuel l^elcher in the work of the ministry among us." He was then residing in the parish, and continued to ofificiate as minister, although he was not regularly ordained and settled as pastor of the church until the last Wednesday in October, 1698. h'or a lime affairs mox'cd along c|uietly and peaceabi)', but at length a determined effort was made to secure the removal of the meeting-house. Jan. 15, 1705-6, "it was voted that the inhabitants should either remoxe the meeting house and build an addition towt, or else build a new meeting house and get it u]-)()n some convenient place whcie they can ]M'()curc or purchase land." A few weeks latei-, the records of the parish stale, under dale of l''eb. 2S, i 705 C), that QUEEN ANNE'S CHAPEL AND BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 369 It was voted that y inhal)itants of y west end t)f the Town of New- bury will build a new meeting house of fifty-four feet in length and thirty-four feet in breadth. And sett y^- s'' house upon Pipestave hill att y*' westerly corner of P>ancis Willet his Lott. And to choose a com- mitty to agree with a man or men to build and finish said house fitt to meet in for the publick worship within y" space of five years att y"^ farthest. And to meet in the old meeting-house five years. Not to force any person to pay any money or pay untill three years be expired. And then to pay one quarter part yearly of y^ charg yt shall be agreed upon for building s'' house untill y'^ whole be paid. A large number of the inhabitants Hving in the vicinity of the old meeting-house protested against the adoption of this vote ; but the majority of the parish were determined to assert their legal rights, and persistently refused to make any concessions to the minority. After the expiration of three years, work was commenced on the new building. Judge Sewall, in his diary, under date of May 10, 1709, says that he " visited cousin Jacob Toppan and laid a stone in the foundation of y'' meeting house at Pipe Staff hill." At a meeting of the inhabitants of the West Parish July 29, 1 709, it was " voted y' the present assessors shall forth with take an invyce of y*' inhabitants, and make a Rate of eighty pounds, one third part in money & two thirds as money, for defraying part of y' charg for building & finishing y' meeting house now standing upon pipe Stave hill." July 17, 1 7 10, the parish voted to levy a tax of ^400 in part payment of the charges incurred in building the " meeting house and ministry house" ; and Dec. 7, 171 1, another levy of ^100 was made for the same purpose. The minority, who had opposed the removal of the meeting-house, stoutly resisted the payment of these taxes. In some instances their lands and household goods were forcibly taken and sold ; but afterward, by order of the General Court, the collector of the parish was instructed to return " the goods and chattels that he had taken by distress." At a meeting held April 19, 171 1, "it was voted to choose a committee of three men to sell & dispose of y'' ministry house that Mr. Belcher now dwells in and y*" Barn & y'' land thereunto belonging, to purchase land for y'' further enlarge- 37° OULD NEWBURY nient of the Personage att Pipe Stave hill. And allso to take the seates and boards & Glass out of y"' old Meeting house to be improx'ed in the New meeting" house. And allso to remove the old meeting house & sett it up att Pipe Stave hill to be improved for a Barn for the ministry in eonvenient time. . . . Serg' Joseph Pike, Serg* Jacob Tappan & William Morse were chosen a committee for the above purpose." In the P2ssex Registry for Deeds, volume 31, page 56, the following conveyance, dated May 29, 171 1, is recorded: — Jacob Tappan. jr., Josepli Pike & William iMor.se. all of Newi)urv. being a committee chosen by the inhabitant.s of y West Precinct in Newbury aforesaid to dispose & Sell y*^ personage House & barn & acre of land as it was granted by y'' s'' Town as it is now fenced in New- bury in the West precinct where y^' Reverend M'' Belcher now dwells, for £(^0 in currant money & convey to John Sawyer, jr., tailor, of New- bury (the money to be disposed of for y'' vse of y^' West precinct Inhabitants towards y Settlem' of y"^ ministry vpon Pipe Staff Hill in s'' Newbury), " All that Personage House y*^^ Reverend M"" Samuel Belcher now dwells in, As Also y"' Psonages Barn Adjoining to y'' s'' House, As Also that acre of Land, be the same more or less, as it was granted by y^' Town of Newbury And as y'' ffence now Standeth abovt s'' Land And it is bounded by y'' comon lands in S'' Newbury on eveV}' side, y^' s'' Dwelling house and y'' S'' Barn now Standing by or vpon y'' s'' Land." The vote to take the seats and glass from the old meeting- house was doubtless intended to defeat the plan that had been matured by some twenty-five or thirty persons residing" at the plains, and to lender it impossible for them to carr}' out the agreement made July 12, 1710, which reads as follows : — We whos names Are hearto Subscribed doo Agree And oblidge our- sealves to each other to mayntain the publick IMinistrv At the old meet- ing house in ye west jirecinct in Newbury. Although we are forscd to l)ay Klswliare wliat shall be Icvid ujion us. Without waiting for dehiiite action on the part of the committee aj^pointed April 19, 1 71 i, a number of disorderl)- l)ersons from the upper ]xirt of the parish came down in the night, demolished the oUl meeling-house. and carried away all the materials that were ot \ahie. Thoroughly indignant and aioused b)' these unjuslitiahle QUEEN ANNh'S CHAPEL AiYD HELLEl'/LLE CEMETERY 371 proceedings, the minority determined to replace the building that had been destroyed. In spite of serious opposition they provided the necessary materials, and set about the work of reconstruction, l^ut July 19, 171 1, the General Court ad- vised and directed that the raising of the meeting-house be deferred until a hearing u])()n the subject could be had, and August 24 issued an order forbidding Samuel Bartlett, Joshua Brown, Joseph Annis, and their associates from proceeding with the work. Complaint having been made that these orders were disregarded and unheeded, the General Court, under date of Nov^ 2, 171 1, peremptorily ordered "that the building of the said house be not, on any pretence whatever, farther proceeded in." In this emergency some of the persons named in this order, who were determined to provide in some way for the settlement of " a sound orthodox preacher" in their imme- diate neighborhood, applied to Mr. John Bridger, then resid- ing at Portsmouth, N. H., for his advice and assistance. To this request the following answer was returned : — Portsmouth in New Hampshire in New England, Xber 4, 171 1. GcHtloiicn Chik/io-cvn, — This with great satisfaction and joy that I am soe pleasingly surprized to hear of your good affection, zeal and resolution toward the established Church of Great Britain, which if it please God to continue and strengthen your minds and hearts in so holy and good a work I will by God's assistance soon see you and defend you from all damages you shall fall under or suffer by such a Church's being built, in any Court or Assembly in New England, they having no power over the Church ; and I dare engage to procure from the Bishop of London a good sober orthodox Preacher if agreeable to you ; otherwise if you have any good man amongst you that will go over & receive Orders, I will put you in a method, and how to get a Salary from home for the Minister from ye Society for Propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts, or from ye Bp of London. I shall not be further troublesome at present, only wishing and praying to Almighty God to continue you in your good desires to the Church, promising you to stand by you against all opposers whatever, and am, With faithfulness and sincerity. Your affect, friend & .Servant, J. Bridger. 372 OULD NEWBURY I'Vom subsct|ucnt letters and icptn-ts sent to the Society for the Pn)pa<;ation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, it is evi- dent that Mr. Bridger was a strong and zealous Churchman, and that he was able, in his official capacity as governor- general of her Majesty's woods and lands in America, to exert considerable influence in fax'or of the cause he had espoused. He came to Newbury ; and, after consultation with the men who had undertaken to build the new meeting- house, he offered to protect them in their efforts to establish a place of worship at the plains, proxided they would accept and use the liturgy and order of service prescribed by the Church of England. A few members of the parish who were familiar with the Book of Common Prayer, and willing to comply with this request, were invited to sign a petition which was drawn up and addressed to the Bishop of London. This petition was dated Newbury, Jan. 28, 1711-12, and reads as follows: — May It Plea.se Your Grace, We your Grace's mo.st huml)le Petitioners Pray leave in the liehalf of ourselves & others to lay before your Grace in as few words as the matter will admit of in relation to building our Church with admission. In the first place our meeting house was puU'd down by rude hands which to our satisfaction we had enjoy'd many years past ; since that & opposite parties had levied by Tax on our estates, to the building another meeting house so far distant from us & many others that we nor they were able to go so far, which renders it wholly unserviceable to all, notwithstanding we was the greatest part of the whole. Tliese proceed- ings obliged us to build a Church & did lV' now do declare it to be the Queen's Chapel built on our own land, yet cannot proceed tliercon bv reason of a warrant from the general assembly, signed by the Gov' ».\: Sec>', a Copy of which pray leave to enclose. This put an entire .Stop to our proceedings, till Jolin Pridger, Ksc]', Surveyor general of her Majesty's woods & Land, iSic, heard of our trouljlcs tS: sent us several letters Ov en- couraged us to proceed ; i)ut he has now come to our relief. ^: lias put us in this way of Petitioning your Grace from whom, wee by Mr. Piridger are fully persuaded, ^K: pray a satisfactory & speedv ans'', being without any Parson to prcacli to us. We iuwo made Mr. Pridgcr our agent. \- ha\'e ^ivcn liim the Land for tlic Churcli. i!v ha\'c (.'Ualile liini wilii workmen \- materials to linish the Ghui'ch. i.\: is really a Pati'on to US, (Jt has engaged himself to us iJt to go on in that work against all opposers whatever, last I saw the certainty of what I could hardlv believe before: namelv. Deacon Merril. Deacon lirown. John Bartlett and others. 22 in all Presenting a Petition to the C.over- nour by Joseph Baylv, one of the 22 Subscribers, Praying his I-lxcel- lencv's Protection of them as being of the Episcojjal Church of Engld ; That thev iniglit not be opi)ress"(l with Rates, (wheras) they did not \\\\\ longer continue in the .Seijaration of their mistaken dissenting iirethreii. This was done Kebr. 27. lUit the (io\ern' shewed it Ko the Council the 29"'. QC/J':E.V AiVN/i'S CHAPEL AND BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 375 Now, tliough tis well enough known what was the spring of their motion, and notwithstanding their Aprons of Fig-Leaves, they walk naked, and their Neighbors see their shame, yet I apprehend it will be most advisable for those of the West ]'recinct Not to meddle with them, or forcibly take of them anything towards defraying any of the Charges of the Precinct. This seems to me best for the Precinct and best for Newbury, and for the Province. And most for the Interest of Religion ; And we shou'd stick at nothing for CHRIST. You will have oppor- tunity, I hope, to argue these Things in the Time of the Silting of the General Court, which now approaches. I am. Sir, Your friend and humble Serv' S. Sew ALL. On page 418 of the same book is another letter, from Judge Sewall to Mr. Nathaniel Coffin, who was at that time deacon of the First Church and clerk of the town of New- bury. The letter is interesting, and discloses, to some extent, the means employed to reclaim Deacon Joshua Brown, and turn him from the error of his way. Under date of March 12, 17',^,, Sewall writes: — ^V;', — I have thought on your words relating to the West Precinct in Newbury, mentioned in your Letter of the 22"' of January last. It came to my mind that my Landlord Webster was a near neighbour to Joshua Brown for many years. You are a Younger Man and a Deacon. I would have you goe to Mr. Webster, and accompany him to your ijrother Deacon Brown, and speak to him with that Seriousness and Solemnity as the case requires, and see if you can reclaim him and re- cover him. Be not discouraged with thinking that he will not hear you. Hereafter, possibly, lie may complain that few, or none, dealt plainly and faithfully with him. However it be, if you in faithfuUness and Meekness endeavor to restore your brother thus siu'pris'd, you will have peace & Comfort in it. Success belongs to GOD. You had best quickly go to Mr. Webster, and make your Visit before your intentions be known. If it take /Er, you will be in danger of being prevented, or much hindered. Accept of Mr. Vincent's Explanation of the Assembly's Catechisme ; And present the epistles to Mr. Ordway, the father, in my name with my service. I thank you for your Kind Affection to my dear Kinsman. He was carried to Rest in his Grave Febr. 27, the day your neighbour Bayley was presenting the Petition to the Gov'r, signed by himself and 21 more, of which Abraham Merril 376 OULD NEWBURY cmd Josluia Ihown were two. We had need pray mutually one for another, that we may not be led into Temjitation I 1 am. .Sir. Your friend and Serv't .S. .S. Meanwhile Mr. l^ridger had as^ain vi.sited Newbury, antl assured tlie workmen engai;ed in building the proposed chinch or chaj^el that he would guarantee to protect them from prosecution if they would continue at work and com- plete the building. In order to avoid further trouble and litigation, and at the same time secure the propert)' from possible injury, the following agreement was drawn uj) and signed : — Newbury. 28"' Jan.. 1711. We whose names are hereunto subscribed do by these presents promise and declare that we will provide and furnish Workmen and materials to finish and compleat the Church now standing on M'' Brown's land, called the Queen's Chappel. and we do hereby desire John Bridger, Esq', to take into his care and management the entire finishing and compleating the said Church fit for the preaching the Gospel therein, and do again declare that we will Supply y said Bridger with all necessaries and materials that such a work may or do require : and we do further declare that this writing shall be good and valid in y'' law as if each of us had given our distinct and Separate Bonds for the performing of the work before mentioned. As Witness our hands and Seals this 28"' dav of January in the tenth year of her Majesty's Reign. Annoq. Domini, i 71 1 . Joseph Anxis, Ai5rah.\m Merrill. Joseph Bailev. Joshua Browx. JOHX BaRTLET, SAiM'L BaRTLETT. Joshua Browx, Jux'r. Rich" Willla.ms. John Merrill, Jux'r. Sam'l Sawyer, JosiAH Sawyer, Sku'per Lunt. Thomas Browx, Rk h" Bartlett. Thomas Bartlet. Tristram Browx. RoiiERT Rogers. Johx Eayr. Dax'l Osilaway. Joiix Bartlet. William Huse. John Kcjgers, Ephraim I)a\!s. JdiiN Sawyer. Natii" Bakili-.t. John 1Ii:wi:s, Joshua Sawyer. Nk 11^ I)a\is. Joiix Bartlet. Sa.\p BARri.ErT. QUEEN ANNE'S CHAPEL AND BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 377 When the above agreement had been duly signed and delivered to Mr. Bridger, he executed in due form an obliga- tion to hold them harmless in any action that might be brought against them, and bound himself to complete the building previous to July, 171 2, provided men and materials were furnished him in accordance with the terms of the contract. Mr. Bridger's obligation was as follows : — Newbury, February 2o"i, 171^ Whereas Abraham Merrill and Joshua Brown of the West Precinct of Newbury, Gentlemen, and others have obliged themselves to me the subscriber by a writing under their hands and seals bearing date the 28"! of January last past to furnish, provide, & find me with men and materials to finish & compleat the Church now standing on the Sub- scriber John Bridger's land fit for the performance and worship of Almighty God according to the established Church of Great Britain, now Know Ye, That by these presents I do oblige myself to finish & compleat the said Church when the said Abraham Merrill, Joshua Brown, &c. shall furnish, provide, and find me with men and materials, and that I in their stead or behalf will bear them harmless and answer for them for their so building the Church in any action or cause of actions that shall arise therefrom, & appear & defend them in any of their Courts in this Province, The Church to be finished in or before July next ensuing this date, provided they furnish me with men and ma- terials as aforesaid to compleat the Church as aforesaid. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year above ^^""""- J. Bridger (Seal) In addition to the facts recited in the above contract and obligation, Mr. Bridger, in a letter to the secretary of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, wrote as follows : — Sir^ — Before I gave this obligation I bought ye land that the Church stands on to prevent their alienation of said land and Church, and I have bound myself to them never to alienate neither Church nor land to any other use whatever. I have not as yet made over the land, but design to do it very soon. I also intend to settle on that Church 200 acres of good land that lyes upon the same River of Merrimack by which River the Church now stands, so soon as the land is divided amongst the proprietors, which I hope to do this Summer, being one of them. As witness my hand this 19 April, 1714. J. Brh^ger. 378 OULD XEIVBUKY In March, 1711-12, Mr. Bridger invited Rev. Mr. Harris, one of the ministers of King's Chapel, Boston, to preach at Newbury. lliis invitation was accepted, and a congrega- tion of two or three hundred gathered to listen to the new preacher. During the next twelve months he came many times to Newbury, bringing with him prayer books and other publica- tions relating to the Church of England. From the records of the Second Parish in Newbury, now the First in West Newbury, it appears that at a meeting held Jan. 28, 171 2-1 3, Serg' John Ordway and John Emery were chosen and desired to give notis to several persons that had absented themselves from y^ Com- munion at y"" Lord's Table, viz: — -Deacon Abraham Merril. Deacon Joshua Brown, Joseph Bailey, Lieut. Sam^' Sawyer, Abiel Long. Joshua Brown, Jun., and John Baily and Anne Huce to give in their reasons for withdrawing from y'' comunion. At a church meeting held Feb. 3, 1 712-13, all the persons named above, with the exception of Anne Huse, made answer as follows : — 1. We doe count that you acted illegally and not like christians in disposing of an house that you never built. 2. For violently pulling down our meeting house and carrying it away contrary to our minds and consent. 3. And also taking away from our Brethren & neighbors part of their estates by distress, which we doe Count Contrary to law & illegal. And we Count very unchristian like. An attempt was evidently made to recover damages for the destruction of the meeting-house, but a compromise was made before the case was brought to trial. Judge Sewall, in his diary, under date of May 19, 171 3, makes the following- statement with reference to the coiut at Ipswich : — Mr. Rogers prays at opening of the Court. l)in\l at Smith's. At noon Brother and I persuaded them of Artichoke precinct to agree. I gave L' Moodev Five pounds, and Jn" ICmery gave hve pounds, and Moodey and others let fall their Review : went into Court and said. QUEEiV AXiVE'S CHAPEL AXD BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 379 Thev are Agreed. The Agreem"t was made in Smith's Garret. Ad- journed sine die. From a report made by Rev. John Lambton, Feb. 12, 1 71 3-14, to the secretary of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, it appears that Mr. Lambton took charge of the church at Newbury Nov. 14, 171 3, having been appointed to that place by Hon. Francis Nicholson, Esq. In that report I\Ir. Lambton says: — Upon my arrival at Newbury I found a handsome building raised & finished at the sole cost and e.xpence of the Inhabitants in that place; for the service of Almighty God according to ye way of worship pre- scribed in our excellent church. There is a considerable auditory every Sabbath Day to the number of 200 & upwards, and would dayly in- crease, only they are imposed upon by ye neighborhood to pay to the Independent Ministers by us. Our adversaries here insinuate that they are a frivolous and inconsiderate ill people, W-'^ is quite otherwise, as Rev'i Mr. Harris who has lived among them and myself now present w'h them can testifie. They are a sober, good people. & were settled in their principles by reading D-- King's books & others w^'' have been dispers'd among them by ye Ministers of ye Church of England here. The question of taxation still continued to disturb the members of the parish ; and Rev. Mr. Lambton wrote, under date of Jan. 27, 171 3-14, to General Francis Nicholson, as follows : — May It Please Your Excellency, — The neighbors who have long threatened to trouble the Church of England here have now put them in execution, and summoned John Merril to appear before Justice Juet (the others not caring to meddle) to pay a rate which was made after they had publickly declared them- selves of the Church of England, and it is the same rate for which Thomas Brown was carried to Prison last May and badly used there, but on complaint to the Governour was set at liberty by the Justice that committed him, being ordered to release him himself and pay the charges. They intend to trouble several more of our neighbours for the tame, and how they will be relieved they know not, unless your Excellency be pleased to interfere, having it in your power to decide all such matters. They have come upon them in a very bad time, just when we were 380 OCLD XEWBVRY about to receive the ever blessed Sacrament, havin;; deferred it till a fitter opportunity and troubles ended, for w''' they wholly depend upon your Excellency's goodness. Pray pardon the boldness of May it please your E.xcellency. &c. Jn". Lambtox. The trouble some people speak so much ill language, nay, treason against her Majesty and rail so again.st your E.xcellency that I am ashamed to mention it. A week later he write.s again to General Nicholson on the same subject, as follows: — i\T I. 1)1 \- 1- 11 Newbury, Feb. 3'', 1713. May It 1 lease \ our Excellency j / j The bearer hereof comes to inform you of the imprisonment of John Merril for a rate made half a year after the erection of the Queen's Chapel here, which our adversaries takes no notice of, they being now resolved to persecute the Churchmen and make them pay to the support of their Ministers, saying that nobody has anything to do to defend us: and, if they are permitted to go thus resolutely on, I am afraid the church will suffer abundantly by it. But the hopes we have of your Excel- lency's favor and protection (who has always been a true and zealous Member of the Church) mightily inspirits and enlivens us, that, though now trodden under foot, we shall rise again more glorious when the truth and justice of our cause comes to be Known. Herewith comes the copy of his commitment, that your Excellency may fullier see how unjustly the}' proceed against us, which is all at present from \'our Excellency's most obedient Humble Servant, JoHX L.AMBTOX. Concerning the Rev. Mr. Lambtt)n very little is known. When he came to Newbury, he was chaplain to her Majesty's ship " I'heni.x." His ministerial career was evidently inter- ru):)te(l for a time, and the date of his resignation is imcer- tain. A letter from (ieneral Nicholson to the cluu'ch wardens and \estrymen of Newbiuy in New hjiglancl, dated Piscata- qua, July 31, 1 7 14, .says: — i'lcnt : — The great fatigue of my business together with a long indis- position is the reason I have not visited you. Mr. Lampton is come once more amontr you, and as I have hitherto used niv interest, so you QUEEN ANNE'S CHAPEL AND BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 381 may depend upon the continuance of everything in my Power for your Services both here and in England. I am, gent., your affectionate Friend and faithful humble Servant Ff. Nicholson. Gent'^' pray give my love to all our friends of the Church. The records of the parish previous to the settlement of Rev. Mr. Lambton are very meagre and defective. The first meeting recorded is March 30, 1714. Abraham Merrill and Joshua Brown were chosen church wardens, and Samuel Sawyer, Samuel Bartlett, Abiel Long, John Bartlett, Richard Bartlett, Thomas Brown, and Joseph Bayley vestrymen. The first baptism recorded is that of Henry Lunt, son of Skipper and Elizabeth Lunt, April 11, 1714; and the first marriage is Isaac Rogers to Rebecca Rawlins, March 25, 1714. Rev. Mr. Lambton probably remained at Newbury until the autumn of 1714. The wardens and vestrymen then applied to Mr. John Bridger, who was in London, requesting him to send them another minister. In answer to this re- quest Rev. Henry Lucas, after a long passage, arrived in New England Sept. 12, 171 5; and about twelve o'clock, September 17, he was at Newbury. On the 27th of October, 171 5, the members of the church at Pipe Stave Hill, then under the pastoral care of Rev. John Tufts, held a meeting, at which it was agreed yt Lieut. Caleb Moody & Ens. Stephen Emery should desire those y' were members of this church living below Artichoke River y' had with- drawn Themselves from Communion a considerable time to meet y*" Church at y Meeting House on November ;"> next ; there to debate in a friendly manner y past Difference & see if some thing could not be done or said to make them more easy & draw y'" to our Comunion again : & to hear ^ Reason why they have withdrawn, &, if we cannot draw them by Fair means, to determine wh measures to take with them. What answer was made to this proposal is uncertain. The records of the church at Pipe Stave Hill do not give any details of the conference, if one was held. It is evident. 382 OULD NEIVBUKY however, that energetic measures were decided upon ; and the wardens and vestrymen of Queen Anne's Chapel, under date of June 2, 171 8, Agreed at ye vestr\- that if any member of ye Ch be distrained upon for ye payment of rates to any other minister y" that of this Ch that ye whole body will try ye case with any person or persons at law. and that each member of ye Ch of England shall bear his proportion accord- ing to his estate, for ye assistance of any person that shall be distrained upon, to carry on and end ye said suit at Law. Witness my hand. Hex : Lucas. Anxious and disturbed by the controversy, but evidently unable to deal with the difficulties of the situation or recon- cile the conflicting views and opinions that prevailed, Rev. Mr. Lucas wrote his last letter to the secretary of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts June 19, 1720. He died Aug. 23, 1720. He was a man of morbid temperament and cjuick sensibili- ties, liable to periods of deep depression. The church under his care seems to have gradually lost vigor and strength ; and, from the general tenor of his reports, sent annually to P^ngiand, it is easy to see that he did not have the sympathy and support of his parishioners. Discouraged and disap- pointed, he is said to have taken his own life while laboring under temporary mental derangement. Rev. David Mossom, of Marblehead, officiated occasionally at Newbury, until the arrival of Rev. Matthias Plant, who left London Feb. 16, 1722, in the ship "Drake," and landed at Boston April 15, about twelve o'clock. In his diary Mr. Plant wrote that he Preached two sermons upon Thursday, an appointed fast, i\\>\\\ k;"': preached Sunday 22'"' in the morning only; set out for IVLarblehead 24"'; came thence to Newbury April 26"' and ])reached in mv i)arisli April 29, 1722. Although the inhabitants of the west precinct, whose jilace of worship was at Pipe Stax'c llill, had xoted April 2, 1714. QC/EE.V A.VXE^S CHAPEL AiVD BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 383 " to free all those persons that are or shall be for the Epis- copal way of worship in ye Precinct from paying any rates to the maintenance of y*^ Ministry amongst us, And also all Quakers," it appears that some years later an attempt was made to revive this tax. Rev. Mr. Plant, in behalf of his parishioners, applied to Governor Shute for protection, and obtained the following order directed "To his Majesty's Justices of ye Peace for ye County of Essex, or any one of them " : — BosTox, July 27, 1722. Whereas upon information from the Rev. Matthias Plant, minister of the Church of England, Newbury, that several persons, inhabitants in that and the adjoining towns, have professed themselves members of ye said church and accordingly have entered their names in their Register Book, and that the Rt. Rev. the Bishop of London hath settled a minister amongst them and that there is a very considerable congregation, I do therefore order that y'' persons, who have already declared, or shall hereafter declare for ye said established church, be peaceably allowed in their proceedings, and must not be taxed or imposed upon for ye support and maintenance of any other publick worship in ye said town or towns, wherein they shall inhabit ; of which all persons concerned are to take notice accordingly. Given under my hand Samuel Shute. On the records of Queen Anne's Chapel the following cer- tificate is inscribed immediately after the governor's order quoted above : — Attested that this is the true form of the original signed and granted by His E.xcellency Sam' Shute, Governor of New England, for y*^ pro- tection of y^' members of y'' Church of England in Newbury & for such persons as shall enter their names into y Register Book. Matthias Plant, Minister, Samuel Bartlet, John Bartlet, Joshua Brown, Thomas Bartlet. Under the protection of this official order the worshippers of Queen Anne's Chapel were relieved from anxiety and 384 OULD NEIVBUKY annoyance, and for many years continued to enjo}' their rights and privileges undisturbed. Standing rules and regulations were adopted for the gov- ernment of the church at a meeting held Nov. 28, 1722, "at the house of ye Rev. Matthias Plant, minister in Newbury, then a lodger in Mr. Samuel Bartlett's house." These rules were signed b)- Samuel Bartlett, Abiel Long, John Hartlett, Joseph Annis, Joshua Brown, Skipper Lunt, Josiah Sawyer, Benjamin Long, Stephen Rogers, Ephraim Davis, Thomas Bartlett, James Harbutt, William Somands, John Eayre, Robert Rogers, John Merrill, William Morey, and Richard Williams. Mr. Plant married Miss L}Tlia Bartlett, daughter of Samuel Bartlett, Dec. 27, 1722. He was highly respected b}' his parishioners, and the number of communicants steadily in- creased. His reports to the secretary of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts give, in con- nection with the early history of the parish, some items of interest relating to the general condition and occupation of the people. Under date of Oct. 25, 1727, he writes as follows : — Si)\ — I have returned you Answers to several particulars relating to the affairs of my Church. 1. The History of Building the Church. X:c. It was erected for a .Meeting House in 171 i. bv the Inhabitants, about 43 Families in num- ber: but. being opposed by a greater Body of people within the same Division or Parish who had erected another Meeting House, they com- plained of "em to the Justices of the Peace (who committed some of them to Prison, & others were compelled for their safety to appeal to the (iovernor & Council, where they met witli no better treatment) for erecting a Meeting House contrary to Law (for according to the Laws of the Province the major part appoints the place where the Meeting House shall be built). Mr. ISridger at Portsmouth in \. IC. having in- formation of the severity used towards tliese people, came to Newburv & told the lnhal)itants that, if they would convert their intended .Meet- ing House into a Church, he would engage 'em protection from the (Governor. They complying with his motion (after the perusal of sev- eral Church ISooksi. he olitained their easement. The Salar\- is Wceklv Contril)Utions l)y tlie .Auditors. ai)out /"20 Per ann'". The material witli wliicli tlie Church is l)uilt is wood. The dimensions of it. 50 ft. long i!v 30 wide, but accommodated witli no House or (llelie. QCEEX AN.VE'S CHAPEL AXD BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 385 2. The number of hearers were about 100, who at first frequented the Church (for many who cojitributed towards building the Church never consented to convert it to that use). Their condition of Fortunes is like unto our ordinary Farmers who rent ^30 or _;^4o p' ann'". They com- monly add some Trade to their Farming. In matters of Religion, Dis- senters. Their Settlements dispersed, after the manner of our Cottages upon commons, some perhaps having 30 to 60 acres of Land. Some of my Hearers live in the adjacent Towns from 2 to 6 miles distance. Marblehead is the nearest Church, 32 miles remote. My constant Auditors are from 150 to 200 or thereabouts, & daily increa,se as doth my Salary. Their Fortunes are no otherwise improved than by their Lands becoming more valuable, which is occasioned by peoples becom- ing more numerous in the Country. 3. There are three Meeting Houses about 3 miles distant in the same town, each frequented by 500 Auditors, at least to each Meeting House one Dissenting Teacher. They are supported by a settled Salarv. thus when the major part of a Town or a Precinct in that Town call a Teacher, then they agree with him for an .Annual settled Salary, which remains so during his life, which is assessed by the Selectmen in each Town, according to every Man"s Estate in that Town or Precinct. & collected bv the Constable, «S: so paid by him to their several Teachers. I think there are about 6 Families of Quakers in the Town, tho" more numerous than in the neighboring Towns. 4. The School Ma,sters in every Town are annually chosen by the In- habitants of the Said Town. Their Salaries are then voted & settled for the year ensuing. 5. Nil. 6. Negro Slaves, one of them is desirous of Baptism, but denied by her Master, a woman of wonderful sense & prudent in matters of equal Knowledge in Religion with most of her sex, far excelling any of her own nation that ever yet I heard of. Sir, I have been very particular in returning a true & e.xact account to each particular. & have transmitted a Letter to you of the same the verv first opportunity which offered, and depend upon your laying the same before their Honors, t c,v 1 tl 11 J . Oil, Your most humble Servant, ^LA.TTHI.\s Plant. In 1738, the erection of a new chiu-ch was proposed by some of the prominent and influential citizens of Newbury, and this suggestion led to the building of St. Paul's Church near the business centre of the town. In 1740, it was ready for use, although not entirely finished until five years later. 3S6 OULD NEWBURY July I, 1742, the General Court passed an act providing that " members of the Church of England shall be taxed according to the law of the pro\-ince, but the amount col- lected shall be delivered to the minister of the church where the professed member regularly attends public worship." In compliance with this law an arrangement was made with Rev. Mr. Plant to officiate at Queen Anne's Chapel and also at St. Paul's Church. Under date of July 23, 1742, he wrote to the secretary of the society in London : " We have erected a fine new church about three miles from where I live. I preach in it e\-ery other Sunday." This arrangement, how- ever, was interrupted by some differences of opinion in re- gard to the rights and duties of the officiating clergyman. Several years later an amicable agreement was reached ; and, July 26, 1 75 I, Rev. ]\Ir. Plant was legally instituted rector of St. Paul's Church. In 1752, Mr. Edward Bass went to P^ng- land, where he was ordained by the Right-Reverend Bishop Sherlock of London. On his return to Newbury he was appointed assistant to the Rev. Mr. Plant, who remained in charge of both churches, but on account of ill-health was un- able to give much attention to parochial work. Mr. Plant died April 2, 1753. Mr. Bass continued to officiate at Queen Anne's Chapel once a month until 1766. The building, neglected and deserted, began to show signs of decay ; and ten or twelve years later, during the prevalence of a high wind, fell to the ground. Ail the church furniture and other materials were appropriated in various ways. The pews were used for the construction of a galler\- in an ad- joining meeting-house. The Bible w^as given to a church in Boscavven, N. H. The silver christening-basin came into the possession of St. Paul's Church, where it remained until stolen by burglars, April 2, 1887. The bell, with the inscription, " Presented to Queen Anne's Chapel by the l-5ishop of London," hung for a time in the belfry of the school-house on Pillsbiu"}'s lane, now Ashland Street. In December, 1839, it was (.|uietly taken tlown in the night, and secretl}' disj:)()sed of. QUEEX ANNE'S CHAPEL AND BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 387 " 'Twas the eve before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. Excepting three persons with their coach with one wheel. Intending, of course, the right bell to steal, Who, with footsteps c[uite noiseless, crept up Pillsbury"s Lane. Accomplished their purpose, and crept back again; And from that day to this the compiler believes The bell has been missing, and so have the thieves." The burying ground connected with Queen Anne'.s Chapel was left undisturbed and neglected for many years. In 1790, Deacon Moses Atkinson and others interested themselves to enlarge and improve it. They built the stone wall on the Wesley Street side, and added an acre or more of land to the enclosure. In 1820, a bequest of Si 00 from Mr. Robert Dodge, on condition that a like sum be raised by subscrip- tion, was accepted, and the conditions complied with. The amount received from this source was invested in land pur- chased of Amos Chase and John Jackman, and added to the burying ground. In 1843, an association was formed, and money was raised for the purpose of building a receiving tomb and laying out and grading walks. In 1 85 1, Josiah L. Hale, Esq., gave some additional land to the association ; and, under Chapters 43 and 44 of the Revised Statutes, the organization was completed, and its members were legally incorporated as the Belleville Cemetery Association. In 1864, the area of the cemetery was still further enlarged by a gift of five acres of land from Messrs. Josiah L. and Joshua Hale. A few years later a substantial iron fence was erected on the southerly side of the enclosure, along the highway now known as Storey Avenue ; and in 1873 a new gateway, suitably inscribed, was presented to the association by Mrs. Sarah Little, wife of Mr. John IJttle. Rev. Henry Lucas, who died August 23, is said to have been buried Aug. 25, 1720, under the altar of Queen Anne's Chapel ; but this statement cannot be verified, as there is no monument or tablet to mark the .spot where he was laid. The oldest stone now standing in the graveyard was erected QUEEN AAW'E'S CHAPEL AND BELLEVILLE CEMETERY 389 to the memory of Mrs. Sarah Bartlett, who died Jan. 17, 1727. From that date until 1 760 the worshippers at Queen Anne's Chapel buried their friends and kindred there. Among the graves that deserve especial notice are four or five in close proximity to each other, marked by headstones bearing the following inscriptions : — Here Lies Buried The Body of the Rev'i Mr. Matthias Plant Born in Staffordshier In Great Briton Minister of This Church and Rector of St. Paul's OB'^ April 2"'i 1753 Etatis 62. Here Lies Buried The Body of Mrs Lydia Plant The Widow and Relict Of The Revi AP Plant Late Minister Of This Church And Rector Of St Pauls OB""' October 8'i> 1753 Etatis 66. Here Lyes Buried The Body Of AL Samvel Bartlett Of Newbury Who Was One Of The First Founders Of This Church He Died May Ye i 5='' 1 732 Being In The 87"^ Year Of His Age. 39° OULD NEWBURY Here Lies Buried The Body Of M"" John Bayley Who Was Clark Of This Church Died Dec'' 20"' I 747 In The 70"' Year Of His Age. Here is Interrd The Body Of Joshua Brown Who W^as One Of Ye First Founders Of The Church In Newbury He Died November The 2r' A. C. 1 742 & In Ye 71'-' Year Of His Age. In the newer portion of the cemetery representatives of the Atkinson, Hale, Carr, Currier, Toppan, Wigglesvvorth, and other families living in that neighborhood, are buried. MAP OF THE WEST PARISH. Auc^ 28, I72Q, the inhabitants of the upper part of the West Parish petitioned the General Court for a division of the parish. In order to assist the petitioners in the presen- tation of their case, an accurate map of that portion of the town of Newbury was made by John Brown, surve)'or, and dated Sept. 15, 1729. This map is now exceedingly valuable and interesting, giving, as it does, the location of every house within the limits of the parish and the name of every owner or occupant at that date. Every street, road, and lane is also carefully laid down and properly designated. There are several litho- graphic copies of the original map in existence. One of them may be seen at the rooms of the Historical Society in the Public Library building, Newburyport. For the convenience of those who wish to consult this map and compare it with the printed text of these pages, a copy, reduced in size, but correct in all its details, has been pre- pared for insertion here. In the accompanying list of house- holders will be found the names of many who were identified with the early history of Newbury. In this list Queen Anne's Chapel is designated " The Church " (No. 13). The minister at that time in charge of the chapel was Rev. Matthias Plant (No. 3). The mill-house (No. 25), at the mouth of the Artichoke River, is now known as Curzon's mill. The meeting-house (No. 56), built in 1710 at Pipe Stave Hill, gave rise to the prolonged contest described in the preceding pages of this book; and Rev. John Tufts (No. 53) was its pastor from 1714 to 1738. The ferries at the mouth of Powow River and at Holt's rocks, near Rocks bridge, are correctly located on the map ; and the extension of High Street from the Bradford road to the Merrimack River is also plainly indicated. This way, Newhl'ry new Town. Taken SepV 15, 1729, 1)}' John Krown. Surv'. INHABITANTS OF WEST PARISH, 1729. Hereunder follow the names of the Inhabitants of this West against the names are set against the houses owned by y same. 48 Joseph Richardson 95 Samuel Chase ^ 49 Edmund Oreenleaf 96 Ephraim Xoyes 50 Tristram Greenleaf 97 Joseph Noyes 51 Capt. Jn". Greenleaf 98 Edward Sargeant 52 Joseph Pike 99 Capt. Greenleafe 53 Rev. Mr. Jno. Tufts 100 Joseph Bailey Parish. &; the numbers 1 John Bayley 2 John Ordway 3 Revt. Mr. Plant 4 John Bartlett 5 Thomas Bartlett 6 Seth Bartlett 7 Sam' Bartlett 8 Da" Joshua Brown 9 John Bartlett 10 Thomas Bartlett 1 1 Joseph Moulton I 2 .Skipper Lunt 13 The Church 14 ISenjamin Long I 5 Thomas Rogers 16 Stephen Rogers 17 Robert Long iS Thomas Chase _ 19 Joseph Annis 54 Francis Willet 55 John Gourdin 56 Meeting House 57 Isaac Bailey 58 William Savor 59 Tristram Knight 60 Timothy Morse 61 Jonathan Sayor 62 Widow Savory 63 Shubael Long 64 John Cottin 65 Charles Chase - 66 James Carr Archelaus Woodman 67 John Chace 21 Widow Davis 22 John Merril 23 Josiah Sayor 24 David Merril 25 Mill House 26 Petor Ordway 27 Benjamin Morse 28 Philip Morse 29 Thomas Brown 30 John Sa}or 31 Peter Merril 32 Joshua Sayor 22 John Sayor 34 John Cooper 35 John Bowley 36 Ephraim Davis 37 John Emery 38 Reuben Emery 39 Joseph Lowell 40 Joseph Brown 41 Joseph Brown 68 James Ordway 69 Benjamin Merril 70 John Worth 71 Tristram Coffin 72 Joseph Piker 73 Nathan Ordway 74 Abraham Annis 75 John Annis 76 Sam' Saver 77 Joshua Bailey 78 Will'" W:atson 79 William Noise So Abel Merrill 81 John Kelby 82 John Kelly S3 John Morse 84 Benj' Swett 85 Sam' March 86 Joshua March 87 Moses Chase - 88 Ezra Pitsbury 42 William Richardson 89 Will"' Johnson 43 Thomas Huse 90 Thomas Follinsby 44 Daniel Cheney 91 William Follinsby 45 Daniel Cheney 92 John Noyse 46 Nathaniel Greenleaf 93 Benjamin Jaques 47 Shimuel Griffin 94 Thomas Follinsby 01 Samuel Plummer 02 Widow Hill oj_Th omas_ Hale 04 Enoch Little 05 Christopher Bartlett 06 James Smith 07 Samuell Dole 08 Stephen Chase - 09 John Hill 10 Samuell Hill 1 1 John Morrison 12 Daniel Morrison 13 John Emery 14 Francis Follinsby 15 Samuel Merril 16 Richard Bartlett 17 Daniel Bartlett iS Daniel Bartlett 19 Benjamin Morse 20 NewMeetingHouse 21 Ezekiel Hale 22 James Brickett 23 Benj'' Hill 24 Salomon Holeman 25 Joseph Hill 26 Will"' Johnson 27 Richard Bartlett 28 Thomas Kenney 29 Stephen Morse 30 John Woodman 31 Abraham Chase 32 Abraham .Chase - 22 William Morse 34 Thomas Noyes 35 Moses Pitsbury 36 John Carr 37 David Chace 38 John Chace 39 James Brown 40 Nathan' Merril 41 142 Samuell Buckman 143 Jonathan Hog 144 Roger Chase • 145 D=>. Thomas Chace 146 Andrew Downor 147 Stephen Sayer 1 48 Sam" Poore 149 Hannuniah Ordway 150 Nathaniel Ordway 15' Sam" Morse 152 John Emerson 153 Thomas Hale 154 Abel Merril 155 -Stephen Morse 156 Abel Morse ^57 Moses Richardson 158 Daniel Morse 159 Daniel Rawlines 160 Truman March 161 Widow Morse 162 Joseph Williams 163 James Britt 164 James Chace 165 Benjamin Rawlins 166 Stephen (Jrdway 167 Richard Bartlett 168 Joseph Pilsbury 169 170 Deacon Caleb Moodey 171 James Huse 172 Wilham Huse 173 John Huse 174 Abel Huse '75 Abel Huse 176 Sam" Bartlett 177 Benjs Poore 178 Thomas Rogers 179 Thomas Rogers, Jr. 180 John Rogers iSi Robert Rogers 182 Joseph flood 183 George Little 184 John Brown 185 Thomas Brown 186 Brown L^pper House 187 Stephen Bailey 394 OULD XEIVBIJRY or Ferr)- road, as it was afterward called, was probably laid out in 1668. The first volume of the records of the town of Newbury has the following;- report from the selectmen of the town : — According to our commission from the town. March 8"^ 1665. we have laid out a country way unto Salisbury New towne of four Rod broad, begining at Merrimack River Side, running through Christopher Bartlett's land sixty rods and likewise through Archelaus Woodman's land. Sixteen Rod at the North end of Caleb Moody's land and through Robert Coker's land about 17 or rS Rods. Richard Kxkjht John Kxight Rkhakd Dole being selectmen did give order to have this recorded. per AxTHOxv Somerhv. Dece.mber 21, 1668. This road was rendered necessary by the grant of a new ferry near the mouth of the Powow River. May 27, 1668, the General Court, In ans'' to the petition of the inhabitants of Salisbury.' new toune. humbly desiring the favo"" of this court that their toune may lie named Emesl:)urv. the Court grants their request. In a further answer to their request to haue liberty granted them to keepe a ferry ouer Merremack Riuer, about M'' Cioodwin's house, the Court judgeth it meet to grant that there shall be a ferry kept as is desired, & leaue it to the next Court of that county to appoint lioth the person that is to keepe it & also to appoint the price. October 13 of that year Edward Goodwin was duly ap- pointed ferryman. In 1669, George Carr applied to the Gen- eral Coiut for liberty to kee]) this new ferr)- in accordance with the agreement made and provided when the floating britlge at Carr's Island was built. His recjuest was granted; and the ferry remained inider his care and control until his death, April 4, 1682. It was afterward kept and maintainetl by the heirs of (ieorge Garr luitil l-"eb. 8, 1695-6, when Richard Carr soUl to Captain John March, of Xewbury. •' i'he r\MTy commonl)' known b\- }c name of Almeslnn}' ferr\- together with all _\-e pri\-eleges to }'c same belonging. MAP OF THE WEST PARISH 395 which s'd Ferry was by ye Town of Almesbury Granted to my Honoured Father, Mr. George Carr, late of Salisbury, deceased, and confirmed by ye General Court, allsoe ye ferry boats, allsoe a freehold commonage or common right in ye Township of Almesbury, as my said Father, Mr. George Carr, was a free Commoner in s'd Towne as ye Towne Booke will make appeer " (Essex Deeds, Ipswich Series, book 2, page 160.) Humphrey Hook, who married Judith, daughter of Captain John March, was placed in charge of the ferry, which in process of time came to be known as "Hook's Ferry." He continued to serve as ferryman until his death in 1754. He was followed by his grandson Humphrey Currier, and other members of his family, until the Essex-Merrimack bridge was opened to the public in 1792. The ferry at Holt's rocks, afterward called Swett's ferry, was located where the present Rocks bridge now stands. March 26, 1694, the town of Newbury "granted John Kelley, senior, permission to keep a ferry over the Merrimack at Holts Rocks, in the place where he now dwelleth, ferriage six pence for horse and man, two pence for single man." Coffin, in his History of Newbury, says, "Sept. 25, 171 1, John Swett was licensed by the Court to keep the ferry at Holt's rocks. Fare, two pence for a man and four pence for a horse." When the map of the West Parish was drawn, John Swett was in charge of this ferry, and resided on the north side of the river. The older ferr}^ established at Carr's Island in 1644, does not appear on the map, as it was located some distance beyond the limits of the parish. Jan. 6, 1 73 1, the West Parish consented to the proposed division. The heavy clotted line extending through Whit Street or Merrill's lane. Downer's lane, the Middle road, and thence through Bailey's lane to the Merrimack River, was evidently the line agreed upon. P'eb. 22, 1 73 I, a committee was appointed to set off the new parish, the fourth in Newbury; and March 29, 1731, a vote to petition the General Court to confirm the action of the parish was unanimously adopted. ST. PAUL'S CHURCH. King's Chapel, erected in Boston in the year 1688, was the first Episcopal church in Massachusetts ; and Oueen Anne's Chapel, built at Newbury in 171 i, was the second. For many years the legally constituted authorities of the town and State endeavored to suppress these churches. A brief summary of the contest that finally resulted in the building of Queen Anne's Chapel at the Plains will be found on the preceding pages of this book. In face of this fierce opposition the growth of the church in Newbury was neces- sarily slow. At length, in 1722, Samuel Shute, then gov- ernor of the province, issued a proclamation ordering that all persons who should declare themseh-es members of the Established Church should be allowed to worship according to the Episcopal form of service, and should not be taxed for the support or maintenance of public worship elsewhere. Under this proclamation the inhabitants of Newbury enjoyed their religious rights and liberties undisturbed, and the communicants at Oueen Anne's Chaj^el rapidly increased in number. A few years later a larger and more con\enient place of worship was desired by those members of the congregation living near the water side, which finally led to the building of St. Paul's Church in 1738, on the corner of High Street and Ordway's lane (now Market Street). Rev. Matthias Plant, then minister at Oueen Anne's Chapel, states in a letter to Rev. Dr. Pearcroft, secretary of the Society for the Propagation of the (josi)el in l^'oreign Parts, that Joseph Atkins, I^sc|.. had pro]i()sed to him the building of a new church at the water side. To this ]ilan Mr. IMant ga\e his consent, and subscribed the sum of ^£,50. Other subscribers were Jose])h .Atkins, Patrick 'I'rac}', Michael ST. PAUL'S CHURCH 397 Dalton, Benjamin Harris, Joseph Greenleaf, Daniel Marquand, Anthony Gwynn, and others. As soon as the necessary arrangements could be completed, a suitable lot of land was selected, and work upon the new church begun. The building, however, was not finished and ready for public worship until near the close of 1740. Feb. 3, 1 741, Joseph Atkins, Esq., of Newbury, gave to the wardens and vestrymen of St. Paul's Church a deed of land on " Queen Street, or Ordway's Lane," with a building already erected thereon, "upon condition always that the said edifice or building called St. Paul's Church and the land aforesaid whereon it stands shall henceforth and forever here- after be improved and made use of for the Publick worship of God according to ye Rubrick of ye Common Prayer Book used by the Church of England, &c." * (Esse.x Deeds, book 84, page 92). After a prolonged correspondence with the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, in regard to the duties and salary of the minister of St. Paul's Church, the following statement was agreed upon, signed, and com- municated to Mr. Plant : — Newbury, Feb. 3, 1742. We the subscribers, members of the New Church in Newbury, called by the name of St. Paul's church, desiring the worship of God accord- ing to the Rubric of the Church of England, do desire and do make ch'oice of the Rev. Mr. Matthias Plant as our Minister to officiate and carry on this said worship in said church of St. Paul's, in Newbury aforesaid,— in witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands this day and year above written. Michael Dalton, Edmund Cottle, CJuircJi Wardens. In a letter to Rev. Dr. Bearcroft, London, England, under date of July 23, 1742, Mr. Plant says : — *Jan 12 .6g-3, James Ordway, Sr., conveyed to his son, James ( )rdway, Jr., a dwelling- house, barn, malt-house, shop, and four acres of land extending from the country road to the road near Merrimack River (see map, page ..9), and bounded on the southeast by Ordway s Lane (Essex Deeds, book 10, leaf 12). James Ordway, Jr., in his will, dated Oct. 21, 172., and proved May 7, 1722, gave the upper half of this lot of land to his son Moses, and the lower half, with the buildings thereon, to his son "'"'"May .3, .73S, Moses Ordway sold to Joseph Atkins a portion of this land bounded by the country road and Ordway's lane (Essex Deeds, book 76, leaf 192). 398 OULD XEIVBURY We liave erected a fine new churcli about three miles from where 1 live. I preach in it every other Sunda}-. This arranj^cnient, however, was interrupted by the attemjit on the part of some members of tlie congregation to retain control of the pulpit, and to invite, as opportunity occurred, other ministers to officiate in the church. Mr. Plant seriously objected to this interference with his rights and privileges, and finally decided to withdraw from the contest, and devote his whole time and attention to Queen Anne's Chapel. In consequence of this struggle between the clergy and the laity, St. Paul's Church was left without a settled minis- ter for nearly nine years, though vigorous efforts were made to provide one. During that time services were occasionally held in the unfinished edifice. Michael Dalton was evidently the first treasurer. In his account he credits the church with contributions received Feb. 14 and Nov. 22, 1741, and for similar receipts in May, June, July, August, and October, 1742. He also charges July 26, 1742, ^7 cash paid Mr. Plant for seven Sundays' service, and £,\ in August and Ji^ in October for similar service. There is no record of the election of wardens and vestrymen previous to 1743. During the next ten years only a few votes of importance were recorded, though it is evident that meetings were frequently held for the choice of officers and the transaction of other business. From 1743 to 1753, the following-named persons were elected : — ]\'a)dcns for 1 743. Joseph Atkins, Esq., lienjaniin Harris. ]'cst)yiiicii for 1 743. Capt. John Crocker. Capt. James Simmons. Capt. Thomas Tannatt. Mr. Witter Cummings. Mr. 'I'hos. Wo()dl)ridge. Mr. William Atkins. Mr. Edmund Cottle, Mr. William Jenkins. Capt. Michael Dalton. Cajjt. Patrick 'I'racy. Mr. Josepli Cottle. ST. PACnS CHCRCH 399 There is no record for the year 1 744. Wardens for i 745. Capt. Daniel Marquand. Capt. Anthony (Iwin. I'cstryiiien for 1745. Joseph Atkins. Esq., Mr. Edmund Cottle, Capt. John Crocker, Mr. Jos. Cottle, Capt. Thomas Tannatt, Capt. Michael Ualton, Mr. Thomas Woodbridge. Capt. Patrick Tracy. Wardens for 1746. Capt. Anthony Gwynn, Capt. Thomas Tannatt. Vi-sfrynicn for 1746. Daniel Marquand. Joseph Cottle. Joseph Atkins, Esq., Benjamin Harris. Capt. John Crocker, Capt. Michael Dalton. Thomas Woodbridge, Capt. Patrick Tracy, Edmund Cottle, Ambrose Davis. Wardens for i 747. Capt. Thos. Tannatt. Capt. John Crocker. ]'estryinen for 1747. Anthony Gwynn. Witter Cummings, Joseph Atkins, Esq.. William Atkins, Esq., Thomas Woodbridge, Ambrose Davis, Capt. Michael Dalton, Joseph Cottle. Benjamin Harris. William Jenkins. Capt. Patrick Tracy. Jl'ardens for i 74 3P' 1749. Rev^ Sir, ■' -^ ^ We rec"'' your letter dated ye 26"' Jany Inst, with a copy of letter In- closed from ye Rey'' Dr. Philip Bearcroft, in which you may take notice that the said letter is in reference to a Petition from the Church Wardens of St. Paul's Church in this town to the Rev'' and Ven''''' Society, and in said Petition the Church Wardens of said Church agreed to put an End to the Difference that has for a long time been between us, which is in this way: — viz: that we would Induct you into said Church and * Rev. Roger Price was appointed commissary or superintendent of Episcopal churches in New England by the Lord Bishop of London in the year 1730. He was also appointed minister at King's Chapel, Boston, and ser\ed in that capaciti,- until Nov. 21, 1746, when he resigned that office, and sailed for England in June, 1747. He returned to Boston in 174S, and afterward resided for some years at Hopkinton, Mass. 402 OULD NEWBURY pay unto the .gentleman that should Ije sent to England to take Holy orders for said Church. Twenty i)ounds sterl- per annum & pay his House rent. ReV' Sir. this is to acquaint you that we are ready to comply with the said proposals, and hope that you will also comply with the ReV' & ^'en''l^■ Society's request so strongly recommended to you, in provid- ing the s''' Church with a proper gentleman as your assistant, as soon as possible, that there may l)e no Time lost & that the unhappy dispute between us may have an end c\: Live in Unity & Godly Love, pray sir to give us an Answer ^: set the Time when we shall attend your Induc- tion. We are, Rev' Sir. Your Most obedient & Humble Serv'- Wm Atkixs ) Church Wardens \ of St. Paul's Thomas Woodbridge \ [^^ A^eivbury. Rev. Mr. Plant adds in his own handwriting the following memorandum : — I receiv'i this Letter on Feb. 3, 1749, t>y ^'" Atkins. Esq., boy Dum- mer. & he s'' he must have a receipt from me to carry back to show them that I had received it. After a long and serious delay and frecjuent consultations with Rev. Dr. Cutler and Rev. Dr. Caner, of Boston, the details of the proposed agreement were satisfactorily adjusted ; and June 24, 1751, Rev. Mr. Plant was formally inducted into the rectorship of St. Paul's Church. The following letter to Rev. Dr. Bearcroft, secretary of the society in PLngland, gives the terms of this agreement : — December 23, i 751 . Rev. Dr ; — In a letter I received from you bearing date of October 21, 1747, sent bv Mr. (iilchrist, and received by me March 25, 174S. 1 am there recommended, upon my being the Chief Minister of the whole pari.sh of Newbury, to make good my promise of paying annually /'20 sterling to some voimg candidate, when admitted into holy orders, to be my assistant at St. Paul's Church in Newbury. The Proprietors having given me Induction into said church June 24. I. to conijily with the Society's directions, have made choice of Mr. Edward Hass. the bearer hereof, to assist me in the said office, when admitted into orders, jiromis- ing to pay Mr. IJass annually ^20 sterling, according to the true purport and meaning of the .Society's directions in that affair: humbly praying the .Society to recommend Mr. 11. to niv Ld. lip. to be admitted into Sr. PAUL'S CHURCH 4^3 orders, that he may as soon as possible return to my assistance, who now labor under a weak disposition. Mr. B. came to me so well recom- mended that 1 verily believe he will be of service in the church and espe- ciallv in Newbury, the place desiijned for his residence. M. Plant. By this arrangement the chapel at the plains and the church at the water side, with separate organizations for the control of temporal affairs, were placed under the same cleri- cal authority. The claims of Rev. Mr. Plant were duly ac- knowledged and recognized, and the territorial limits of the parish were preserved intact. Fifteen years later services at the plains were discontinued ; but the church at the water side, sustained and supported by some of the most prominent citizens of the town, continued its work through the trouble- some times of the Revolution, and still retains its name and place in the diocese of Massachusetts. Rev. Mr. Plant came to Newbury in 1722 ; and December 27th of that year he married Lydia Bartlett, daughter of Samuel Bartlett. A few years later, he purchased a lot of land on the road leading to Amesbury ferry and built a house thereon, which he owned and occupied for many years. This house was removed forty or fifty years ago ; but the out- lines of the cellar are still visible, and the well that supplied the household with water is still in good order and condition. From time to time Mr. Plant added to his real estate in that neighborhood, extending his possessions from the ferry road to the Merrimack River, and including Deer Island, which he purchased only two months previous to his death. Rev. Fdward Bass returned from England in the fall of 1752, and was immediately appointed assistant minister at St. Paul's Church. Rev. Mr. Plant, who was then in feeble health, died April 2, 1753. Right-Rev. Edward Bass, D. D., Bishop of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, was born in Dorchester Nov. 23, 1726. He graduated at Harvard College in 1744, and was admitted to holy orders by Right-Rev. Thomas Sherlock, D. D., Bishop of London, in his chapel at Fulham, May 24, 1752. He entered upon his duties as assistant minister in St. Paul's 404 OULD NEWBURY Church in the month of October or November, 1752, and recorded the death and burial of Rev. Mr. Plant in the month of April following". There was probably no definite action taken by the pari.sh in regard to the additional duties the new minister was un- expectedly called upon to perform. At all events the records are silent on that subject. (_)n the first day of January, 1753, they made choice of Captain Michael Dalton, Captain Daniel Marquand, Mr. Joseph Cottle, Captain Anthony Gwynn, and William Atkins, Esq., to agree with some suitable person or persons to build a porch and front gallery to said church ; and Dec. 20, 1753, a meeting was held to levy a tax on the pews to meet the expenses incurred by the wardens and vestrymen. There is no mention of other important questions that must have been considered at that time or soon after, and for the next five years only a few items of special interest are recorded. In 1756, an organ was purchased of Charles Apthorp, Esq., treasurer of King's Chapel, Boston. The names of the con- tributors to the fund raised to meet this expenditure are given in the record as follows : — Capt. Daniel Marcjuand ^21 o o Rev. Mr. Bass 20 o o Joseph Atkins, Esq 50 o o Mr. Benjamin Harris 50 o o Capt. Michael Dalton 50 o o Mr. Dudley Atkins 20 o o William Atkins, Esq 30 o o Mr. Joseph Cottle 30 o o Daniel Gibbs, Esq. & one more 3250 Capt. Thomas Beck 4100 Capt. Anthony Gwynn 30 9 4 Mr. Thomas Woodbridge 1800 William Jenkins 382 Additional Subscriptions by Benjamin Harris 30 o o Michael Dalton 30 o o Jos. Cottle 16100 Edmund Cottle 850 Balance paid liy Micliael Dalton to make up deficit ... 55 12 6 /500 o o ST. PAUUS CHURCH 405 This organ was imported by Thomas Brattle, of Boston. It was the first one brought to New England, and was re- garded by the devout men of that time with grave suspicion. Thomas Brattle died May i8, 1713- I" his will, he makes the following bequest : — I srive. dedicate and Devote my organ to the praise and glory of (iod in tl^e s'l Church (in Brattle Square), if they shall accept thereof and within a year after my decease procure a sober person that can play skillfully thereon with a loud noise. Otherwise to the Church of Eng- land in this towne on y*- same terms and conditions; and on their non- acceptance or discontinuance as before I give the Same to my nephew William Brattle. In the record of the Brattle Square Church, Boston, under date of July 24, 171 3, is the following allusion to this gift : — The Church, with all possible respect to the memory of our deceased Friend and Benefactor, Voted, that they did not think it proper to use the same in the publick worship of Ciod. At a meeting held in King's Chapel Aug. 3, 171 3, the members of that society voted to accept the gift of Mr. Thomas Brattle, and March 2, 1713-14. they "voted that the organ be forthwith put up." "it was in use in King's Chapel on Sundays and holy days until 1756, when it was purchased, as above stated, by the members of St. Paul's Church, Newburyport. In 1836, it was sold to St. John's Church, Portsmouth, N. H., where it is now in use at chapel services and in the Sunday school. In 1769, the proprietors of St. Paul's Church "voted that M^ Bass has liberty agreeably to his Petition to Build a Vestry Room on the North side of the Church behind the Pulpit, to have a door to go out thro' the Pew now improved by Mrs. Barret, &c." At the regular Easter meeting, held April i, 1771, it was voted " to address & solicit the Governor to grant the Plate given by his Majesty for the use of s'd Church." ^ Thomas Hutchinson was appomted governor of the prov- ince of Massachusetts Bay in the month of March, 1771. 4o6 OULD NEIVBURY He received from King (ieorge III. a service of plate and pulpit furniture, which he presented to King's Chapel, lk)ston, taking in exchange the old communion service. A portion of this old service was given to Christ's Church, Cambridge ; and a flagon inscribed with the words, " The gift of K. William & p. Mary to ye Rev'' Saml Myles for the use of their Mai'"" Chappel in N. England, 1694," and a chalice bearing this inscription, " Kx dono Johannis Milles 1693," were sent to St. Paul's Church, Newburyport. At this date the church was in possession of a sih'er chris- tening basin, fifteen inches in diameter, marked I. C, and the letters k. ''s. engraved on the rim. This basin was the gift of Richard Brown, merchant, to Queen Anne's Chapel, as appears from the following clause in his will, dated Sept. 16, 1730, and proved April 2, 1735 : — To the Church of Christ in Newbury to which I belong my large silver Bason to be and remain unto ye said Church for ye baptiseing of children forever. In the probate office at Salem a receipt in the handwrit- ing" of Rev. Matthias Plant reads as follows : — o Newbury, Sept. 9"'. 1740. Then received from Joseph Gerrish, Esq., & ')s\x~ Mary Marquand. .Administrator & Administratri.x to Rich'': I5rown of Newbury, (ient., Dec'', a Large Silver Bason weighing thirty seven ounces of silver. A Legacy given to y"^ Church of England in Newbury by y-' aforsd M'' Brown: The whicli Silver Bason 1 receive for the use of s'' Church, as witness my Hand. AIatts: Pl.ant : Minister of ye church. ])rized at 24/6 per oz. ^44.8. A credence paten, witli rich repousse border, represent- ing a stag hunt, also formed a pait of the coiumunion plate of .St. Paul's Church a few \-eai-s later, and was intended to |-emind the eonuuunicant of the words ol the Psalmist : "As the hart panteth after the water-brooks, so longeth my soul after thee, () (iod." The maker of this paten '' '' was ST. PAUUS CHURCH 407 registered at Goldsmith's Hall, London, in 1674. It bore ,the following inscription : " The gift of Dudley A. Tyng, Esq., to St. Paul's Church, October, 1800." The articles above described, with others of a more recent make, were stolen from the safe in the rector's study, in the rear of the church, April 2, 1887. For a more particular account of these ancient specimens of the silver worker's art the reader is referred to a book, entitled " Old Plate," by J. H. Buck, published in 1888, pages 190 and 199. At the beginning of the Revolutionary War the peace and quiet of the church was greatly disturbed by the comments and criticisms of those who denounced in unmeasured terms everything appertaining to royalty. The exigencies of the occasion required prompt action ; and the wardens and vestry- men, at a meeting held July 16, 1776, addressed the following letter to their rector, Rev. P^dward Bass : — Re7'\i Sir; — The Representatives of the United Colonies in America, having in Congress declared s"d colonies free and Independent States, and dis- avowed all Allegiance to the King of Britain and the service of the Church to which we belong, prescribing certain prayers, &c., to be used for s*d King, his Family & Government, We find ourselves under the necessity of requesting you to omit in your use of the Service all Prayers, Collects, or Suffrages which relate to the King, Royal Family, or Government of Great Britain, both as we would avoid great Incon- sistency and as we value the welfare of the church, being assured that without such omission the Existence thereof would immediatel}' cease. With great Respect and Esteem we are, Rev'd Sir, Your most humble Servants, Joseph Cutler 1 )- IWirdcns ) JOHX ViNAL Wm Atkins ^ ,,,,,/ Tristram Daltox Wm Jexkixs GoDFRV Smith I 'estryiiieii of Daxiel Marquaxd ' St. Paul JOHX Jexkixs Church. Bexja Balch W^i MORLAXD 4o8 OULD NEWBURY ]^()uiul b}- an oath of allcg-iancc to the kini;- and to the church, Mr. ]-5ass was naturally embarrassed by the difficulties of the situation. He yielded, however, to the ties of kindred and countr)', and complied with the request made by his wardens and \'estr}men. In consequence of this act of insubordination, and the subsequent observance of fast da)-s api:)ointed by the civil authorities, and the contribution of money for the relief of those who had suffered in *' the rebellion," his services as missionary of the London society were discontinued and his salary withheld. He insisted on his loyalty to the church, although he had forsworn his allegiance to the king ; but the society remained deaf to his entreaties, and he became en- tirely dependent on his parish for future support. During the war, St. Paul's Church continued its active parochial work unmolested. Among its earnest and devoted members were Tristram Dalton, afterward senator to con- gress from Massachusetts ; Rufus King, afterward senator from the State of New York, and twice minister plenipoten- tiary to the court of St. James ; Captain Thomas Thomas and Captain Nicholas Tracy, brave and intrepid owners and commanders of some of the most successful privateers on the coast ; Patrick Tracy, one of the most eminent merchants of that day ; John Tracy, who served in General Sullivan's army in Rhode Psland as aide-de-camp to General Glover; and many others who contributed in various ways to the cause of American independence. Although firm and strong supporters of the P^piscopal form of worship, they were never- theless ready and willing to aid and assist in the struggle for freedom. At the close of the war, the lC]iisct)pal church in the United States was left in a ckplorable condition. It was thoroughly disorganized, with no \ isible head to exercise authoiity or make the necessary alterations in the Hook of Common Pi'a\'er. Candidates wei"e sent to i^ngland tor conseci"ation as bishops of the American church, but a modification of ecclesiastical law was retiuiretl beiore that objecl could be attained. After a lonu' de]a\- the difficult\' ST. PAULS CHURCH 409 was removed by an act of parliament ; and Rev. Dr. William White, of Pennsylvania, and Rev. Dr. Samuel Provoost, of New York, were consecrated at Lambeth Chapel Feb. 4, 1787. Some years later Rev. James Madison, D. D., of Virginia, having been elected bishop, was consecrated, Sept. 19, 1790, by the archbishop of Canterbury, the bishop of London, and the bishop of Rochester. Meanwhile, a convention of the New P>ngland churches was held in Boston on the 7th and 8th of September, 1785, for the purpose of considering the proposed changes in the Book of Common Prayer. Rev. Edward Bass was chosen president, and after a full and free discussion many important changes and alterations in the liturgy and ritual of the church were suggested and adopted. At a meeting of the clergy of Massachusetts and New- Hampshire, held at Salem, Mass., June 4, 1789, for the pur- pose of encouraging and promoting the growth of the church in New England, Rev. Edward Bass was nominated and elected to the office of bishop, " to be received as such when canonically consecrated and invested with the Apostolic office." Sept. 16, 1789, the proprietors of St. Paul's Church elected Hon. Tristram Dalton and Hon. Elbridge Gerry delegates to the general convention, to be held at Philadel- phia Sept. 29, 1789, and appointed Hon. Jonathan Jackson, Dudley Atkins, Esq., and John Tracy, Esq., a committee to draw up a letter of instructions to be forwarded to Messrs. Dalton and Gerry, then in New York. At an adjourned meeting, held two days later, the committee submitted the draft of a letter which was accepted and adopted ; and a copy of the same was entered upon the records of the church. At the convention, a series of resolutions were adopted in the committee of the whole, requesting the bishops to comply " with the prayer of the clergy of the States of Massachusetts and New Hampshire for the consecration of the Rev. Edward Bass"; but, for prudential reasons, action was delayed until after the death of Rev. Dr. Seabury, of 41 o OULD XEWBURY Connecticut, who had been consecrated by the non-juring bishops at Aberdeen, Scotland, in 1784. Rev. Mr. Bass re- ceived the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity from the University of Penn.sylvania in I/cSq; and May 7, 1797, he was consecrated in Christ Church, Philadelphia, as bishop of Massachusetts and Rhode Island by Right-Rev. William White, D. D., of Pennsylvania, Bishops Provoost and Claggett being present and assisting. Jan. 25, 1800, the General Court of Massachusetts passed an act authorizing " the Proprietors of the Episcopal Church in Newburyport to appoint an agent with power to transfer and convey to such persons as the Proprietors shall think proper the building now occupied by them for the upholding of public worship, together with so much of the Proprietors' land under and adjoining the same as shall be covered by a new church which such purchasers may cause to be erected." At a meeting of the proprietors of St. Paul's Church, held Feb. 26, 1800, John Tracy, P2sq., was appointed agent to convey to Pxlward Rand and others " the present church with all its fixtures, including Bell, Organ, &c." h\'bruary 28, John Tracy conveyed the building, with a certain portion of the land under and adjoining the same, to the following persons, subscribers to the fund raised for the erection of a new church, namely : Edward Rand, William F'arris, Joseph Kent, Tristram Coffin, Samuel Allyne Otis, Abraham Jack- son, James Prince, Joseph Cutler, Samuel Cutler, Nicholas Tracy, William Cutler, Isaac Adams, William Woart, Benja- min Balch, William Welstead Prout, John Pettingal, Abner Wood, William Wyer, Jr., and William Moreland, merchants ; Edward Bass, Doctor in Di\init)' ; lulward Bass, Jr., painter; George Jenkins, mariner ; Charles Jackson, gentleman ; .Abra- ham Gallishan, sail-maker ; Thomas Thomas, gentleman ; Joseph Nowell, tallow chandler ; Tliomas Packer, teamster ; Joseph IIoo])ei', gentleman; (iilman l-'i-othingham, leather dresser; Nathaniel .\sh, teamster; John Akerman, rope- maker; and Richard Peters, cooper, all of Newburvport ; and Humphrc)- Morse, }'eoman ; I)udle\' Atkins I )ng, l-^sq. ; Stephen Hooper, Esti. ; .Stephen Toppan, liousewright ; Jacob ST. PAUVS CHURCH 41 i Little, merchant ; Amos Atkinson, merchant ; and Joseph Sawyer, husbandman, all of Newbury ; and Joseph Laughton, of Boston. At a meeting of the subscribers to this fund, held March 24, 1800, Joseph Kent, Dudley A. Tyng, Samuel A. Otis, William Farris, and Tristram Coffin were appointed a com- mittee to make the contract for erecting and finishing a new church. On the twenty-fifth day of March this committee agreed with Stephen Toppan " to take down and remove the building called St. Paul's Church," and erect a new one on the same spot, according to specifications, with a vestry-room in the rear, " and a piazza of the Truscan order in front, sup- ported by twelve pillars. . . . The Pulpit, Reading Desk and Clerk's Pew shall be finished like those of Trinity Church in Boston, except as to the ornamental part thereof, which shall be decent and as elegant as the said Stephen shall think be- coming." The bell, organ, and altar-piece (reredos) were to be carefully taken down and set up again in the new church. All of this work was to be finished and completed before the fifteenth day of October, 1800. The corner-stone was laid with Masonic ceremonies by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts on the twenty-second day of May. Services were held in the Second Presbyterian meet- ing-house, Bishop Bass officiating. Rev. William Bentley, D. D., a Congregational minister of Salem, Mass., delivered the address. The following letters, written to Rev. Dr. Bentley just before and just after that event, taken from a biographical sketch of that eminent clergyman, prepared by Rev. S. C. Beane, of Newburyport, are exceedingly interesting and suggestive : — Rev. &- Dear Sir; Newburyport, May i 7, 1800. Possibly you may know that the little handful of Episcopalians here are building a new church for our good friend Dr. Bass. The excellent old Gentleman is so delighted with the thing that he must needs have a ceremony in laying the corner-stone. This ceremony is to be per- formed by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts on Thursday next. I know your affection for the craft. & 1 avail myself of it to support my r >";,i«a«3eJi't-'-> ^ c Wi m " 1 i ' ■ J' ST. PAUL'S CHURCH 4I3 request that you will join us in the business, and particularly that you will make your quarters at my house. . . . I am. Dear Sir, &c., Dudley A. Tyng. Newburyport, May 31, 1800. My Dear Sir; ^ \o\xx heart is benevolent, your head is liberal, but, as your memory may be treacherous, I take the liberty to remind you of the tobacco. Yours, Edward Bass. Rev. W'" Bentley. Rev. Dr. Bentley's address was published in full in the Nciubnryport Herald, May 30, 1 800. At the close of the exercises in the Second Presbyterian meeting-house, a procession was formed, and proceeded to the site of the new church, where under a triumphal arch, on which was written in letters of gold, "Holiness to the Lord," the corner-stone was laid by Bishop Bass, assisted by his Masonic brethren. The church was consecrated Oct. 8, 1800 ; and the proprietors, at a meeting held Dec. 22, 1800, "voted that the thanks of this meeting be and hereby are presented to the Second Presbyterian Society in Newbury- port for their truly Christian kindness in accommodating us with the use of their Meeting House the past season while our church was rebuilding; and that Dudley A. Tyng, Esq., M-" Edward Rand and M'' Joseph Kent be committee to com- municate the same." Since that date the church has remained substantially the same in outward appearance, but some noteworthy changes have been made within. The clerk's pew has long since dis- appeared ; and in place of the old pulpit and reading-desk are more elaborate works of bronze and brass, memorial gifts from friends of the church. The old bell was broken while being rung on Sunday, Dec. 23, 1 8 10. A new one, ca.st by Paul Revere, Boston, weigh- ing six hundred and thirty-seven pounds, was placed in the belfry Eeb. 14, 181 1, and rung for the first time Sunday, 414 OULD NEWBVRY Feb. I/, i8i I. The old or^an occupied a i)romineiit position in the front i;"allery, ()pi)osite the chancel, until 1836, when it was sold, and replaced by a new one. \x\ the summer of 1866, another change was made for the accommodation of the choir. The organ was removed from the gallery. Another and hu"ger instrument was |)urchased, and set up on the lower floor of the church on the northwesterly side of the chancel, where it still remains. The altar-piece, or reredos, to which reference is made in the contract, resembles in general shape and appearance the altar-piece brought from England in 171 4, and set up in St. Michael's Church, Marblehead. The similarity of design indicates that the imported English work was taken as a model by the builders of St. Paul's Church, Newburyport. Some changes and alterations, however, were made at the time ; and, when the new church was built in 1800, the panel containing the Ten Commandments, the Lord's Prayer, and the Apostles' Creed, was added. The letters are said to have been drawn by William Woart, and painted b}' Edward Bass, nephew of Bishop Bass. When repairs were made upon the church in 1 842, the eagle, for some reason unknown, was taken from its place above the altar, and after an absence of nearly forty years, during which time it occupied a conspicuous place in front of engine house No. 3, on Congress Street, Newbur)ix)rt, and afterward in front of the store of T. H. & A. W. Lord on Market Square, it was rescued and restored through the efforts of Ben : Perley Poore, Msq., and Mr. Charles W. Moseley, to its former position in the church, — a worthy and appropriate memorial and symbol of the everlasting gosjx'l, bearing its message of peace and good will to every tribe and tongue and people. This eagle, though long associated with the church, did not form a ])art of the ancient altar-piece, and probably dates its existence from the )'ear 1800. Among the items charged in the account of Samuel A. (^tis, who was cleik of the com- mittee appointed to superintend the building of the new- church, is the sum of twent\-fi\e dollars, " Paid \\"ilson for 41 6 OULD NEWBURY carvin<; ea<;le." There is also in the same account a charge of nine dolhirs "for carving mitre & small eggle." The mitre, carved in wood, was placed above the belfry as an emblem of the office of the first bishop of Massachusetts and Rhode Island ; but how or when the "small eggle" was used is at the present time unknown. Bishop Bass was twice married. His first w4fe, Sarah (Beck) Bass, died in May, 1789, leaving no children. For his secontl wife he married Miss Mercy Phillips, who survived him many years.* He died Sept. 10, 1803, in the seventy- si.xth year of his age, and was buried in the churchyard on the thirteenth day of the month, Rev. Dr. Parker, of Boston, preaching the sermon on that occasion and reading the com- mittal service at the grave. Rev. Dr. Bentley, in his diary under date of May 23, 1804, writes as follows : — I received from Xewburyport a catalogue of Bishop Bass' library which is to be sold on Friday next. . . . The catalogue contained 46 FoHos & 240 vohmies besides, including all sorts found in his hands. This would not be a considerable library in Europe, but it is greater than is commonly found among our prominent divines in America, & is more of a Theological cast than I have seen, except the Hbrary of the Mathers, Dr. Mather Byles, Chauncy, & Cooper, or, in other words, than ever I have seen out of Boston, no one excepted. I could not help noticing, in going over the catalogue, I did not find the least notice of a Greek Testament ... no modern or late com- mentary even of his own church. . . . The same inattention to American history. Rev. James Morss, born in Newburyi)ort Oct. 25, 1779, graduated at Harvard College in 1800, was admitted to the order of deacons in the Episcopal C'biuch by Right-Rev. Pklward Bass, D. D., on the third day of July. 1803. On the nineteenth day of October, of the same year, he was in\itcd to take charge of St. Paul's parish. June 11, 1804, he was (jrdained priest by Bishop Moore in the French Church du St. Fsprit, in the city t)f New York ; and for nearly thirty-nine years he continued the work of the ministr\- in * Mrs. Mtriy I'.ass died Jan. i,^, 1S42, .iRod oiglity-seven. ST. PAUUS CHURCH 417 Newburyport. In the records of the church soon after he became rector, he wrote as follows : — On the 6"' of August, 1S05, a fast was kept at Mr. Dana's Meeting House on account of the long drought ; but two most beautiful showers, occurring about three days previous, occasioned no small embarrass- ment. A proposal made by myself to convert the fast into a day of thanksgiving was not favorably received. Princeton College, N. J., conferred upon him the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity in 1826. On Sunday, Dec. 31, 1837, he preached in St. Paul's Church, Newburyport, two historical discourses that were afterward published in pam- phlet form, from which many of the facts for this sketch are taken. He died April 26, 1842. Arrangements for the funeral were made by a committee appointed by the wardens and vestrymen of the church. Rev. Daniel Dana, Rev. John Andrews, Rev. Leonard Withington, Rev. Jonathan F". Stearns, Rev. Luther F. Dimmick, Rev. Randolph Campbell, Rev. Thomas B. Fox, and Rev. John C. March, clergymen in Newburyport, were invited to act as pall-bearers. Rev. Mr. Searle, chaplain of the United States navy, read the sen- tences on entering the church. Rev. Mr. Watson, of Trinity Church, Boston, read the selections from the Psalms. Rev. Thomas M. Clark, of Grace Church, Boston, read the lesson. Right-Rev. Alexander V. Griswold, bishop of the Eastern diocese, read the other parts of the burial service. Rev. Charles Burroughs, D. D., of Portsmouth, N. H., preached a sermon from Psalm xii., i, — " Help, Lord, for the godly man ceaseth ; for the faithful fail from among the children of men." The committal service was read at the grave, in the churchyard adjoining; and subsequently an appropriate monu- ment was erected to his memory by order of the parish. In the spring of 1843, Re^- John S. Davenport, of Stam- ford, Conn., a graduate of Yale College, was invited to officiate in the church. He preached his first sermon March 5, 1843. During the summer the church was closed for repairs, and services were held in the court-house on Bartlett Mall. Rev. John S. Davenport was ordained priest and 41 8 OULD NEWBURY instituted rector of St. Paul's Church in December, 1843. In consequence of some disai^reement he resii;-ned his position Nov. 12. 1844. Rev. lulward A. Washburn, born in Boston in 1819, L;radu- ated at Marvard College in 1838, was invited, March 4, 1845, to become rector of St. Paul's Church. He accepted the in- vitation, and after a delay of some months was admitted to priest's orders. He remained in charge of the parish until Aug. 3, 1 85 I, when he tendered his resignation, in order that he might have opportunity to travel in the Holy Land. Rev. William Horton, D. D., was the next rector. He was born in Newburyport March 14, 1805, graduated at tlarxard College in 1824, and entered upon his duties as rector of St. Paul's Church Sept. i, 1853. In November, 1861, Rev. Dr. Horton submitted to the wardens and vestrymen a pro- posal to build at his own expense, on the westerly side of the church, a stone chapel in memory of a beloved daughter re- cently deceased. The building was erected during the year 1862, and consecrated May 23, 1863. Rev. Dr. Horton died Oct. 29, 1863. humeral services were held in the church October 31, Right-Rev. Bishop Plastburn officiating. Rev. John C. Wliite was invited to become associate rector with Rev. Dr. Horton Jan. 19, 1863. He accepted the invi- tation, and, after the death of Rev. Dr. Horton, remained in charge of the parish for seven years. May 20, 1865, the old parsonage house — the gift of Mrs. Mercy Bass, widow of Bishop Bass, to the church — was, by order of the supreme court, held at Salem in the month of April preceding, sold at auction, and the proceeds added to the Bass fund, in charge of the trustees of donations to the l^pisco]3al church in Massachusetts. Rev. John C. White resigned as rector of St. Paul's Church April 18, 1870; and Oct. 24, 1870, Rev. George D. Jt)hnson was imited to take charge of the vacant pulpit. He entered upon his duties Nov. i, 1870, and remained rector until Oct. 5, 1875. llis successor, Re\-. \\. L. Drown, held the office from May 3, 1876, to Dec. 20, 1883, and was followetl b}' Re\-. J. 11. Van Buix'n from No\-. 20, 1884, to Jul}- 1, 1890. ST. PAUIJS CHURCH 419 The present rector, Rev. William C. Richardson, was in- \-ited to take charge of the parish Sept. i, i8go. He entered upon the duties of his office Sept. 15, 1890. In the churchyard are many interesting monuments erected to the memory of men and women prominent in the early history of Newbury and Newburyport. Rev. Matthias Plant, in his record of deaths and burials, says : " Elizabeth, Dater of Ambrose Davis & Margaret, was ye first corpse interred in ye new church yard by ye water side July 17, 1742, aged 17 months." The oldest stone now standing there marks the grave of Sarah Atkins, daughter of William and Abigail Atkins, who died July 19, 1742. The oldest person buried within this enclosure was Joseph Atkins, who died Jan. 21, 1773, aged ninety-nine. The oldest woman was Miss Margaret Morris Jenkins, who died Sept. 27, 1865, aged ninety-six years and four months. The total number of inscriptions on gravestones now standing is two hundred and eighty, and twenty-five of them relate to men and women who were at least eighty years of age at the time of their decease. In the list of worthy and distinguished citizens who now rest from their labors in this old church}'ard are the names of Michael Dalton, Anthony Gwynn, Joseph Atkins, Patrick Tracy, Thomas Thomas, Bishop Bass, Rev. James Morse, D. D., Dudley Atkins Tyng, John Tracy, Tristram Dalton, William Moreland, and Edward S. Rand. -•Hi*-- . THE DEVIL'S DEN. In 1697, the discovery of limestone " within half a mile of the navigable part of Little river" created great excite- ment in the town of Newbury. Previous to this date all the lime used for house-building purposes was obtained from oyster and clam shells. Mortar made from this lime was very durable, and came, in process of time, to be almost as hard as granite. When the first house on Kent's Island was erected, the chimney inside the house was made of clay, while the portion projecting above the roof was built of brick laid in mortar, made from the lime of oyster shells. A cen- tury later, when the old house was taken down to give place to a new one, the brick chimney top, still solid and firm, was raised from the clay with heavy iron bars, and is said to have rolled down the steep roof and fallen to the ground without starting a brick. Alonzo Lewis, the historian of Lynn, states that in 1696 a large quantity of clams were thrown upon the Lynn and Nahant beaches during the severe storms of that year. " The people were permitted, by a vote of the town, to dig and gather as many as they wished for their own use, but no more; and no person was allowed to carry any out of the town, on a penalty of twenty shillings. The shells were gathered in cartloads on the beach, and manufactured into lime." The same author says, in the year 171 2, "all the shells which came upon the Nahant beaches were sold by the town to Daniel Brown and William Gray for thirty shillings. They were not to sell the shells for more than eight shillings a load, containing forty-eight bushels, heaped measure. The people were permitted to dig and gather the clams as before, 4^2 OULD NEWBURY and leave the sliells. The house in which I was born was plastered with lime made from these shells." Concerning the great discovery in Newbury, Judge Sewall says in his diary, under date of Sept. 8, 1697, volume 5, page 458 : — Col. Pierce gave an account of the Body of Lime-Stone discovered at Newbury, and the order of the Selectmen published by James Brown, Deputy Sheriff, to prohibit any persons from carrying any more away under the penalty of twenty shillings. It seems they have begun to come with Teams by 30 in a day. The Town will have a meeting, and bring it to some Regulation. Our Mumford saith 'tis good INIarble. Ens. James Noyes found it out. Cofifin, in his History of Newbury, says that the town chose Sept. 22, 1697, "Major Daniel Davison, Corporal George March, and ensign James Noyes, as a committee, who shall inspect into all matters concerning the limestones in any of the undivided lands in the town, who shall have the sole ordering, disposing, and importing said limestones for the town's use in what way and manner the}' shall judg shall most conduce to the benefit of the town." This com- mittee were required to keep a strict and accurate account of all receipts and expenditures, to be reported to the town every six months, and all persons were prohibited from taking any of this limestone for their own personal use under a penalty of twenty shillings for each and every hogshead so taken. The town also voted that " the kiln for burning said lime shall be built at or near the end of Muzzie's lane, next the Merrimack river." This kiln, located at the foot of what is now known as Marlborough Street, was used exclusively for the burning of lime by the committee apjiointed on the part of the town, to attend to that duty. ( )ther kilns, however, were constructed within the limits of Newbury by private indix'iduals, and limestone was pur- chased from the town at a fixed rate, and manufactured into lime at a good profit. In 1698, the town " \-oted that four shillings ])er ton shall be paid for lime stones for transjiorta- THE DF.l'IVS DEiV 423 tion, and that no more shall be sold out of the towne till further order." Jan. 5, 1704, "the town voted that two shillings and six pence per ton shall be paid for lime stone, provided that they buy them, dig them, and burn them in Newbury." Meanwhile, another quarry had been discovered on the road leading to Kent's Island ; and the work of drilling, blasting, and removing limestone, was carried on simulta- neously in both places. For many years the business con- tinued prosperous and lucrative ; but, at length, the discovery of a superior quality of stone in other parts of New England lessened the demand for the product of the Newbury quarries, and they gradually fell into disuse, and finally were abandoned altogether. Gushing, in his History of Newburyport, published in 1826, describing these limestone pits, says : — The excavations are still regarded with interest on account of the number of minerals to be found there, some of which are of rare occur- rence. The limestone rock is intersected with strata of serpentine of various shades, from the light green to the darkest variety, of a fine grain, and susceptible of the most beautiful polish. The serpentine again is frequently traversed by thin veins of asbestos of a short but very delicate and glossy fibre. Tremolite, also, is found there in abun- dance, with iron pyrites, sometimes of a large size ; and occasionally garnets and other more common minerals. Long after these quarries had ceased to have a commercial value, pleasure parties were accustomed, during the summer months, to seek rest and recreation there, beguiling the time with marvelous stories in which the Prince of Darkness was given a conspicuous place. In later years the young and credulous found traces of his Satanic Majesty's footsteps in the solid rock, and discovered other unmistakable signs of his presence in that locality ; and ever since the Devil's Den, the Devil's Basin, and the Devil's Pulpit have been objects of peculiar interest to every native of old Newbury. THE OLD ELM OF NEWBURY. The American elm is not a very long-lived tree. It grows with vigor for seventy-five or one hundred years, but begins to show signs of decay long before it is two centuries old. Very few elms reach the age of two hundred and fifty ; and seldom, if ever, is one seen three hundred years old. The Newbury elm, on Parker Street, was probably set out in the year 171 3, and therefore is now one hundred and eighty-three years old. At that date, Richard Jaques, born Jan. 6, 1684, is said to have brought the young and slender tree to his father's house, and planted it there. Slowly at first, but afterward taking firm hold on the soil, it threw its branches outward and upward into the sunlight, and year by year added to its height and circumference. Richard Jaques married Feb. 25, 171 3-4, Elizabeth, daugh- ter of Joseph and Deborah Knight. In March, 1 760-1, Richard Jaques and his wife Elizabeth both died of small-pox, and were buried on land belonging to the estate, almost di- rectly opposite the old homestead where they had lived for nearly fifty years. The house was taken down in 17S6, and replaced by a new one that is still standing beneath the shade of the old elm. It is now owned and occupied by William Jaques, a lineal descendant of Richard Jaques, who "... planted the tree by his family cot. To stand as a monument, marking the spot It helped him to reach, and. what was still more. Because it had grown b}' his fair one's door." The half-tone print on the opposite page gives the best view of the old elm that can be obtained by the use of the 426 OULD A'EIVBURY camera ; but, nevertheless, it does not reveal its great size and graceful jMoportions. Fourteen feet is a large girth for an elm tree, measured five feet above the ground. Eighteen feet is a ver)' large one, and twenty-two feet and a few inches is the maximum. The Newbury elm has a girth of seventeen feet and two inches. It is said to have been eighty-five feet in height, and to meas- ure ninety-si.x feet across from bough end to bough end, when in its prime. But the ice storm of 1885 destroyed its beauty and symmetry ; and in June, 1890, one of the largest branches was torn off by the wind within six feet of the roots. Notwithstanding these serious injuries, the old elm is still grand and impressive. Its massive trunk and towering branches show signs of decay ; but, when it shall have crumbled to the dust and disappeared from mortal sight, it will still live in the beautiful lines written by Miss Hannah Y. Gould nearly sixty years ago : — Did ever it come in your way to pass The silvery pond, witli its fringe of grass. And. threading the lane hard by, to see The veteran ehn of Newbury? You saw how its roots had grasped the ground. As if it had felt that the earth went round. And fastened them down with determined will To keep it steady, and hold it still. Its aged trunk, so stately and strong. Has braved the blasts as they've rushed along. Its head has towered and its arms have spread. While more than a hundred years have tied ! Well, that old elm, that is now so grand. Was once a twig in the rustic hand Of a youthful peasant, who went one night To visit his love, by the tender light Of the modest moon and her twinkling host ; While the star that lighted his bosom most. And gave to his lonely feet their speed. Abode in a cottage beyond the mead. THE OLD ELM OE XEIVBCRY 4-7 "Twas the peaceful close of a summer's day ; Its glorious orb had passed away : The toil of the field till the morn had ceased. For a season of rest to man and beast. The mother had silenced her humming wheel ; The father returned for the evening meal The thanks of one who had chosen the part Of the poor in spirit, the rich in heart. Who. having the soul's grand panacea. Feel all is added that's needful here. And know this truth of the human breast. That loaiitino^ little is being blest. The good old man in his chair reclined, At a humble door, with a peaceful mind ; While the drops from his sun-burnt brow were dried By the cool, sweet air of the eventide. The son from the yoke had unlocked the bow. Dismissing the faithful ox to go And graze in the close. He had called the kine For their oblation at day's decline. He'd gathered and numbered the lambs and sheep. And fastened them up in their nightly keep. He'd stood bv the coop till the hen could bring Her huddling brood safe under her wing, And made them secure from the hooting owl. Whose midnight prey was the shrieking fowl. When all was finished, he sped to the well. Where the old gray bucket hastily fell ; And the clear cold water came up to chase The dust of the field from his neck and face. And hands and feet, till the youth began To look renewed in the outer man. And, soon arrayed in his Sunday's best, The stiff new suit had done the rest. And the hale young lover was on his w^ay. W'here. through the fen and the field, it lay ; And over the bramble, the brake, and the grass. As the shortest cut to the house of his lass. It is not recorded how long he stayed In the cheerful home of the smiling maid ; But. when he came out, it was late and dark And silent. — not even a dog would bark 42 8 OULD NEWBURY To take from his feeling of loneliness. And make the length of his way seem less. He thought it was strange that the treacherous moon Should have given the world the slip so soon: And, whether the eyes of the girl had made The stars of the sky in his own to fade Or not. it certainly seemed to him That each grew distant and small and dim. And he shuddered to think he was now about To take a long and a lonely route ; For he did not know what fearful sight Miirht come to him through the shadows of night I An elm grew close by the cottage's eaves. So he plucked him a twig well clothed with leaves : And, sallying forth with the supple arm, To serve as a talisman parrying harm. He felt that, though his heart was so big. "Twas even the stouter for having the twig. For this, he thought, would answer to switch The horrors away, as he crossed the ditch. The meadow and copse, wherein, perchance. Will-o"-the-wisp might wickedly dance. And, wielding it, keep him from having a chill At the menacing sound of ■• Whip-poor-will ! "' And his flesh from creeping, beside the bog. At the harsh, bass voice of the viewless frog. In short, he felt that the switch would be (luard, plaything, business, and company. When he got safe home, and joyfully found He still was himself ! and living 1 and sound I He planted the twig by his family cot. To stand as a monument, marking the spot It helped him to reach, and. what was still more, Because it had grown by his fair one's door. The twig took root, and, as time flew by. Its boughs spread wide and its head grew high : W'iiile the priest's good service had long been done. Wiiich made the youth and the maiden one, .\n(l tiieir voung scions arose and played .Xroimd the tree, in its leafv shade. THE OLD ELM OF XEWDUKY 429 But many and many a year has fled Since they were gathered among the dead : And now their names, with the moss o'ergrown. Are veiled from sight on the churchyard stone That leans away, in a lingering fall. And owns the power that shall level all The works that the hand of man hath wrought. Bring him to dust, and his name to nought : While, near in view, and just beyond The grassy skirts of the silver pond. In its "green old age," stands the noble tree Tlie veteran elm of Xewburv. THIRD PARISH IN NEWBURY, And First Religious Society in Newburyport. Sept. 17, 1722, the First Farish in Newbury gave their consent to the formation of a parish to be called the Third Farish in Newbury, but its bounds and limits were not defi- nitely fixed until two or three years later. Coffin, on page 196 of the History of Newbury, quotes from a letter written by William Moody, of Byfield, to his brother-in-law. Judge Samuel Sewall, dated F^eb. 17, 1725, as follows : — Our people at towne are going to build another meeting house, but intend to set it so nigh to Mr. Toppan's (minister at the first Parish) that I fear it will make great contention. Newbury are great sufferers this day for what have happened by contending about the place of a meeting house. The report of the committee of the General Court ap- pointed to fi.x the bounds of the proposed parish and the action of the court thereon were as follows : — At a Create and Cenaral Court or Assembley of his Majesties Prov- ince, of the Massachusetts Bay New-England, Held November 3. 1728. Samuel Thaxter, Esq., from the Comity, of both Houses on the Petition of several Inhabitants of Newbury first Parish, Caue in the following Report, viz : Pursuant to an order of the Cenaral Court at thair Session in No- ueniber 1725, in answer to the Petition of the westerly part of the old Parish in Newbury ordering us the subscribers to view the scituation of the Peticioners as well as the other part of the first Parish in New- burv. Especially where the middle diuiding line is I'roposed and to hear the parties therein, Conferred and make Report thereon: In obediance to the said order upon the first day of December Curnt we Repaired to Xewl)urv and hauing Notified the Persons Concernd. THIRD PARISH IN NEWBURY 43 1 we Vewd the seuarall parts of the old Presinct and the Land of the new proposed Parish and Report as follows, That the Lane called Chandler s Lane shall be the diuding Line between the old and new Parishes, and to continue as the old or first Parish has already Granted on the nme- teenth of June 1722. Hut in as much as eight families that live near the said line and on the South Side there of, viz. Edward Sargant, Jams Crocker, Isaac Hall, Joseph Swasey, Stephen Presson, Wdham Allen. John Creenlife Jun. and Isaac Miricke have desired to be set to the New Parish, and Som of them have been at charge in building the New Meeting House, the Comity are humbly of opinion that the said eio-ht families with their estats adjoyning shall be set to the new Parish'during the Courts pleasure. Also where as there is a considera- ble number of families on the Northerly Side of the New Meeting House, that have entred thair decents against being joyned to the New Parish, the Comitv are of opinion that thay be joined to the New Par- ish Prouided the said Parish do accomodate them with Sutabel Pews, or Seats for thair reception, without thair being at any Charge tliere for. December 8. 1725: William Rogers, Daniel Epes, Samuel Thaxter. Thomas Choat, Spencer Phips. , , ,, thnt In Counsel read and ordered that this Report be accepted, and that the I and within the Bounds in the Said Report Discribed, be sett of a distinct and seprate Precinct, and that the Inhabitance thereof be vested with the powers and Priuileges that the Inhabitants of other Precincts are Vested with : In the House of Representatives Read and Concurd. Consented to: William Dummer. The meetin-house of the new parish was erected in the centre of a triangular piece of land now known as Market Square, Newburyport. It was a commodious structure, sixty feet in len-th and forty-five feet in breadth, with a steeple on the end confronting the river and the pulpit at the opposite end It was dedicated June 25, 172 5, Rev. John Tufts, of the Second Parish in Newbury, preaching the dedicatory sermon. . Rev John Lowell, of Boston, who supplied the pulpit from June 27, was invited, Aug. 23, 1725, to take charge of the parish as its settled minister. At this date the church was unoro-anized ; and there is no record of a parish meetmg until Dec ^9, 1725, when it was "voted to provide a parsonage house for Rev. M^ Lowell or give him two hundred pounds on condition of his settling and continuing with us." 432 OULD A-RIVIWRY Jan. 12, 1725-6, Re\-. Moses Male, of liyficlcl, preached in the Third Parish nieetinL;'-house ; and a church was i;ath- ered by Rev. Caleb Cushing, of Salisbury, who drew up the church covenant. This covenant, or confession of faith, was signed by Richard Kent, Benaiah Titcomb, William Titcomb, Moses Titcomb, Stephen Greenleaf, Henry Sewall, Abraham Toppan, and man}' others. Jan. ig, 1725-6, Rev. John Lowell was ordained j^astor of the church. The ordination services were conducted by Rev. John Tufts, of the Second Parish, who made the open- ing prayer ; Rew Thomas P'oxcroft, of Boston, who preached from 2 Corinthians, 12th chapter, 13th, 14th, and 15th verses ; Rev. Moses Hale, of Byfield, who gave the right hand of fellowship ; and Rev. Caleb Cushing, of Salisbury, who gave the charge. At a meeting of the parish held Jan. 31, 1725-6, it was "voted that Richard Kent, ICsq., Deacon William Noyes, and Lieut. Benaiah Titcomb shall have power to make sale of the house and land lately bought of Mr. Thomas Brown, or any part of the same, for the use of the new parish in Newbury, if the Rev. John Lowle does not care to accept of the same." At a subsequent meeting held May 10, 1726, it was "voted that the Rev. John Lowle shall have the house and land bought of Thomas Brown, he paying the money and the said Parish to pay him ^200." For further details relating to this conveyance the reader is referred to the sketch of the Lowell house, page 449. May 23, 1727, the parish x'oted to purchase a bell weigh- ing about four hundred pounds, and also "voted that Jona- than Woodman should treat with some gentlemen in Boston tf) send for a bell for said Parish." iuirl}' in the month of February, 1727-8, the bell liad exidently arrived, and had been hung in the belfry, for on the twenty-first da)' of the month the assessors were authorized to agree with Ambrose lierry to ring the bell till the March meeting; and March 19, 1727-8, it was "voted tJKil the bell of the 'Phird I'arish be Rung at nine of the clock." Nov. 26, 1729, the palish " \-oted that the Comit}' to looke THIRD PARISH IX XKWBURY 433 out for a place for a schoole house be a comity to lookc out a place for a burial place." William Johnson and William Titcomb were appointed on this committee. At a meeting" held March 17, 1729-30, the school-house was located on High Street, between h^ish Street (now State Street) and Queen Street (now Market Street) and the land on the westerly side of Frog Pond was taken for a burying ground, and ordered to be enclosed with a board fence. At the same meeting it was also " voated that if any Gentleman in our Parish will appear to higher a School Master, thay shall have our Parishes part of the money that is to be Raised in the Generall, by the 7'own, provided tha}' do keep a Gramar School a year in sum Convenient place in s'd Parish, and any person of our Parish shall have Liberty to send their children, provided thay do pay for thair Schooling a Groat a week." Dec. II, 1734, the parish "Voated that Richard Kent, Esq., Joseph Atkins, Esc}., and Abiel Somerby be a comity to recover the Interest money of the fifty thousand pounds which the selectmen has given under their hands to pay for the use of the third Parish in Newbury." "March 10, 1734-5, Voated that the Interest Money of the fifty thousand pounds which the third Parish has in their hands shall be Improved for to git a clocke for sd Parish. "Voated that Cap' William Johnson and doc' Nathan Hale should see to git a clocke for s'' Parish." This interest money was probably derived from the issue of bills of credit under an act passed by the General Court March 31, 1721, entitled "An act for the making and emit- ting the sum of P'ifty Thousand Pounds in bills of credit on this Province in such manner as in the said act is hereafter expressed." By the provisions of this act the several towns in the Province were authorized to loan a certain proportion of the public funds on good security, and it was also provided that the income from this loan should be used in the payment of local public charges. As the population of the town increased in numbers, the demand for seats in the meeting-house increased ; and the 434 OULD NEWBURY parish was at Icnj^th comiDcllcd to furnish an additional supply. At a meeting held March 25, 1736, it was " Voated that Cap' William Jonson, Cap' John Greenlef, Joshua Beebe, Lieut Abraham Toppan, doc' ICnoch Sawyer, Benjamin Little, Samuel Plumer, Abiel Somerby, Cutting Moody, Joseph Titcomb, Col. Richard Kent, be a comity to consider and treat about inlarging" said meetin house ; aded to the Comity Benjamin Greenlef and Lieut. Moses Gerish and William Titcomb, Ju''. Voated that the Comity abo\e chosen have full power to proceed in Inlarging said meeting house thirty five foot back in the best method thay can, And to agree with worke men to parfect the finishing of sd house as soon as may be, and also to dispose of the Pews to parsons belonging to the Parish, \\\ order to Raise money to defray the charges." With this addition the meeting-house must have been a large and commodious building, measuring eighty feet by sixty feet, with a gallery on one side, and probably on three sides, for the accommodation of the rapidly increasing number of worshippers. In September, 1740, Rev. George Whitefield preached his first sermon in Newbury to an im- mense audience that occupied all the available space in this meeting-house. That the parish was earnest and active in its efforts to provide for the support of the public schools is evident from the frequent mention of the subject in the parish records. March 28, 1740, it was "Voated that the assessors do Raise one Hundred and twenty pounds uppon the Parish for two schools, to be Equally divided betweene them, for gram- mar schooles and ft)r Radeders and Righters and Sif erring. Voated that one of the schools be kept in the school house, and the other schoole to be kept betweene Ordway's Lane and Woodman's Lane, and the officers to appoint the place. Voated that AP Joshua Mood)' should be one of the school masters for the year Insuing if he will take \\\) with the terms proj^osed and to help at the school house. " X'oatetl that Mr. Lenard Gotten shoulil be the other school master for the year Insuing, if he shall take up with the terms proposed, M"" Gotten accejjts of the school." THIRD PARISH IN XEIVBURY 435 The care and control of the " Old Hill Burying- Ground" is also often referred to in the records. March 25, 1741, it was " voted that Dr. Joshua Beck and Ambrose Berry be a comity to take care that the Burying place in s'd Parish be fenced in with Rocks." In 1743, thirty-eight members of the parish asked for letters of dismissal in order to join the new society that a few years later completed its organization, and invited Rev. Jonathan Parsons to become its pastor. After repeated efforts to secure a favorable answer to their request the disaffected brethren formally withdrew from communion in the Third Parish, and in October, 1746, were admitted to membership in the First Presbyterian Church. At this time, the services in the Third Parish on the Lord's Day were exceedingly plain and simple, beginning with a long prayer, followed by the singing of a psalm, then by a sermon occupying one or two hours in the delivery, and closing with a short prayer and the benediction. An inter- mission of an hour was allowed for the mid-day meal. The exercises were then resumed, and the afternoon service pro- ceeded in substantially the same order from the opening prayer to the final benediction. The reading of the Bible was not considered essential or even justifiable in public worship. The rubrics of the Church of Kngland made it obligatory upon her clergy to read a certain prescribed portion upon holy days and fast days ; but the men who had separated from the Church were not dis- posed to follow her teachings in this respect, although their descendants in the nineteenth century insist that the Word of God shall be read not only in the meeting-houses on Sun- day, but in the public schools on every other day in the week. Not until the year 1750 did the reading of the Script- ures become a part of the established order of religious worship in the Third Parish.* For several years after the organization ,of the Presbyterian Society and the settlement of Rev. Jonathan Parsons the tax levied upon the members of that society for the support * In the First Parish the Scriptures were not read at divine service imtil the year 1769. 436 OULD A'EIVBURY and maintenance of ])ul)lic worship in the meeting-house, where Rev. Mr. Lowell officiated, was stoutly resisted. At length an amicable agreement was reached, which resulted in the passage of an act, by the General Court, Jan. 29, 1752, entitled "An act to impower the proprietors of the meeting house in the First Parish in Salem, where the Reverend Mr. John Sparhawk now officiates, and also the proprietors of the meeting house in the Third Parish in Newbury, where the Reverend Mr. John Lowell officiates, to raise Money for defraying ministerial and other necessary charges." By the provisions of this act the proprietors were authorized to levy a tax on the pews in Rev. Mr. Lowell's meeting house, and to raise such sums of money as should be agreed upt)n at any meeting legally called. They were also authorized to assess upon pewholders, according to their cir- cumstances and ability, whatever balance might be required to meet the expenses of the parish over and above the sum received from the tax on pews ; " and all persons not attend- ing publick worship in said house as well as those who do " were freed from parish taxes. This act continued in force for three years, and was then extended for three years longer. It was subsequently renewed from time to time until the year 17S0, when the new State constitution was adopted, which provided that all money raised for the sup- port of public worship should be paid according to the in- struction or request of the tax-payer "for the support of the public teacher or teachers of his own religious sect or de- nomination, provided there be any on whose instruction he attends." Armed with the authority conferred by the legis- lative act of 1752, the proprietors of the Third Parish meet- ing-house were able to jjrovide the funds needed to meet the annual expenses without further irritation or annoyance. Notwithstanding the deep religious interest pre\'alent at that time, and the reverent attention given to religious in- struction by the men of that day, it is exident that some of the younger members of the communit}- who attended Sun- day serxices in the Thiicl Parish meeting-house were not absolute models of pi'opi'ict)'. Possibl)', the\' transmitted to THIRD 2'ARISH IX XEIVBURY 437 the boys of the present generation some of their sinfnl pro- cli\ities. At all events, their behavior was severely criticised ; and June 20, 175 i, the parish voted "that Joshua Pillsbury and Stephen Moody and Paul Shackford and Edmund Bart- lett take care of the Boyes that Play at meeting." In an interleaved almanac now in the possession of Mrs. Alexander B. P'orbes, of Fatherland P'arm, the Rev. Moses Parsons wrote : — Feb. 9. 1 754. a thunder shower in the evening with hail and rain. The lightening struck ye steeple of AP' Lowell's meeting house and shattered it very much, and did some damage to ye house and to ye windows of ye houses near. Soon after this event, Benjamin Franklin visited Newbury, and made a careful examination of the premises. In a letter to M. Dalibard at Paris, dated Philadelphia, June 29, 1755, and read before the Royal Society of London Dec. 18, 1755, Franklin wrote : — I thank you for communicating M. de Buffon's relation of the effect of lightning at Dijon, on the 7"' of June last. In return, give me leave to relate an instance I lately saw of the same kind. Being in the town of Newbury, in New England, in November last, I was shown the effect of lightning on their church, which had been struck a few months before. The steeple was a scjuare tower of wood, reaching seventv feet up from the ground to the place where the bell hung, over which rose a taper spire, of wood likewise, reaching seventy feet higher, to the vane of the weather-cock. Near the bell was tixed an iron hammer to strike the hours; and from the tail of the hammer a wire went down through a small gimlet-hole in the Hoor that the bell stood upon, and through a second floor in like manner: then horizontallv under and near the plastered ceiling of that second floor, till it came near a plastered wall ; then down by the side of that wall to a clock, which stood about twenty feet below the bell. The wire was not bigger than a common knitting needle. The spire was split all to pieces by the lightning, and the parts flung in all directions over the Stjuare in which the church stood, so that nothing remained above the bell. The lightning passed between the hammer and the clock in the above-mentioned wire, without hurting either of the floors, or having any effect upon them (except making the gimlet holes, through which the wire passed, a little bigger), and without hurting the plastered wall, or any part of the building, so far as the aforesaid wire and the pendu- 438 OULD NEWBURY lum-wire of tlie clock extended : which latter wire was about the thick- ness of a goose-quill. From the end of the pendulum, down quite to the ground, the building wa.s exceedingly rent and damaged, and some stones in the foundation-wall torn out and thrown to the distance of twenty or thirty feet. No part of the aforementioned long small wire, between the clock and the hammer, could be found, except about two inches that hung to the tail of the hammer, and about as much that was fastened to the clock : the rest being exploded, and its particles dissi- pated in smoke and air, as gunpowder is by common tire, and had left only a black smutty track on the plastering, three or four inches broad, darkest in the middle and fainter towards the edges, all along the ceil- ing, under which it passed, and down the wall. These were the effects and appearances on which I would only make the following remarks, yiz. : — I. That lightning, in its passage through a building, will leave wood to pass as far as it can in metal, and not enter the wood again till the conductor of metal ceases. And the same I have observed in other instances, as to walls of brick or stone. 1. The quantity of lightning that passed through this steeple must have been very great, by its effects on the lofty spire above the bell, and on the square tower, all below the end of the clock-pendulum. 3. Great as this quantity was, it was conducted by a small wire and a clock-pendulum, without the least damage to the building so far as they extended. 4. The pendulum rod. being of a sutificient thickness, conducted the lightning without damage to itself; but the small wire was utterly destroyed. 5. Though the small wire \vas itself destroyed, yet it had conducted the lightning with safety to the building. 6. And from the whole it seems probable that, if even such a small wire had been extended from the spindle of the vane to the earth before the storm, no damage would have been done to the steeple by that stroke of lightning, though the wire itself had been destroyed. B. Fr.axklix. The letter from which the above extract is taken will be found in the second Nolimie, pag-es 405 to 409 inclusive, of the Complete Works of Benjamin h'ranklin, edited !))• John Bigelow, and ])id)Hshetl in 1887. In 1755, when Colonel Moses Titcomb, and others, enlisted in the e.\]:)edition a<;'ainst the h'rench at Crown Point, were ordered to report for dut}', a crowtled coni;"rei;"ation assembled in the Third Paiish meetinL;-house to listen to a sermon by THIRD PARISH IX XEIVBURY 439 Rev. John Lowell, from the text, •' For the Lord your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against }'our enemies, to save you." And a few months later, in the same place, services were held to commemorate the courage and heroism of Colonel Titcomb, who was slain in battle Sep- tember 8th of that year. \x\ 1759, Quebec was captured, and the citizens of Newbury had a day of rejoicing. An ox was killed, properly dressed, and broiled on a huge gridiron on the vacant land on the northwesterly side of this meeting-house. Rev. John Lowell died May 15, 1767; and May 11, 1768, Rev. Thomas Cary, of Charlestown, was ordained pastor of the Third Parish. At this time some members of the con- gregation were in favor of inviting Rev. Christopher B. Marsh, of Boston, to take charge of the parish, but, being in a minority, were outvoted, and finally withdrew and formed another religious society with a house of worship on Titcomb Street, opposite Brown's Square. Under the pastoral care of Rev. Thomas Cary the Third Parish was prosperous and active, especially during the War of the Revolution. Soon after peace was declared efforts were made to repair and impro\'e the old meeting-house. A committee, appointed to consider the subject, reported as follows : — April 21. 1785. The Committee appointed by the proprietors of the house of worship where the Rev'' Mr. Cary is Pastor, to examine said house & consider of the expediency of Repairing it. do Report that they find the House in so defective a State thro every part that they cannot advise to any further Repairs than what may be found necessary to prevent the water from Droping into the Seats & pews, as any Further Repairs in their Oppinion would be Money badly appropriated on Said House; they also Recommend to the proprietors to have the Spire Taken Down as Low as the Top of the Ogee Roof, it being Unsafe in their Oppinion to stand any Longer. With Respect to the Means proper to be Taken for Building a New Meeting-house, they beg Leave to refer the matter to the Further Consideration of the proprietors. The Committee being unanimous in the Above Report affix their Signatures. Stephen Hooper. Sam'l Bacheldor, Moses Frazier, & others. 440 OULD NEIVBUKY On Suiulav, ]\Iarch 9, 1788, after morning service, Rev. Thomas Caiv was stricken down with i)aralysis, and never fully recovered from the attack. He was able occasionally to attend to his clerical duties, but it became necessary to furnish him with a colleague ; and Rev. John Andrews, of Hingham, was ordained as associate minister Dec. 10, 17S8. At this time many of the prominent citizens of the town were members of the society, and deeply interested in its religious work. Hciety." THIRD PARISH IN NEWBURY 44 1 "they find no vote or grant respecting the land covered by the meeting" house, but the Proprietors have been in quiet and peaceable possession of the same for more than sixty years, they have acquired a good, lawful, and complete title thereto. The triangular piece of land adjoining the north- ■ westerly side of said house was purchased by the Proprietors of Jeremiah Pearson and others on the 21"' day of August, 1765, as by their deed of warranty appears." The deed to which reference is made in the above report was recorded in the Essex Registry of Deeds, book 134, page 26, and reads as follows: — Jeremiah Pierson, Joiner, Samuel Gerrish, Joiner, William Daven- port, innholder, & uxor Sarah, Anthony Gwynn, merchant, & uxor Mary, & Abigail Stapleton, widow, all of Newburyport for £11 x'^" 4'', paid by the proprietors of the Meeting house in Newburyport where the Rev'' Mr. John Lowell now officiates, convey to Thomas Moody, makster. Cutting Bartlett, cordwainer, & John Newman, physician, all of s'd Newburyport, being a Committee of said Proprietors, " a certain triangular piece of land lying on the back of said meeting house & containing six rods of land, be the same more or less, bounded by a two rod way northerly measuring four rods & by a two rod way south- westerly measuring four rods, & on the other side l^y the aforesaid meeting house there measuring seventy six feet." This land was conveyed to Jeremiah Pierson and others Nov. 19, 1750, by a deed recorded in book 97, page 17, substantially as follows : — John March, Joseph Lunt, and John Brown, Junior, committee of the Proprietors of Common lands in Newbury, by a vote passed at the meeting of the Proprietors held May 13, 1743, convey to Capt. Moses (lerrish, Jeremiah Pierson, Jacob Noyes, and Samuel Gerrish, all of Newbury, for a public use, six rods of land in Newbury, to set or build a school house and watch house upon or any other public use that they shall see cause to put said land to. After a prolonged conference with the authorities of the town, and with citizens who were interested in securing the parish land for a public square, the proprietors under date of April 24, 1800, voted as follows : — 442 OULD NEWBURY As the Meeting House belonging to this Propriety is ancient and defective and incapable of suitable Repairs ; and as this Propriety are seized in Fee simple of the land under and adjoining the said House, the same land being in a Triangular Form, and Bounded Southeasterly on State Street, Northerly on Merrimack Street, and Westerly on a street leading from State Street by the Westerly corner of the said House to Merrimack Street, and the same land being inconveniently situated for the erecting of another Meeting House, therefore it is ]'oted, that this Propriety will sell and dispose of the said House and land, reserving the cellar Wall and Underpinning of the said House, the Materials of which the Pews are built, the Bell. Clocks. Organ. I-^lectri- cal Rod and Weathercock. At the same meeting they appointed a committee, consi.st- ing of Hon. Theophilus Bradbiuy, Captain James Kettell, and Mr. Leonard Smith, to select a suitable lot of land for the new meeting-house, and report at a future meeting of the proprietors. This committee was also authorized to draw up a plan and make estimates of the probable cost of the building completed, and Theophilus Parsons was requested to apply to the legislature for an act to confirm the doings of the meeting and to vest in the proprietors certain rights and powers petitioned for. Ebenezer Stocker, Nathan Hoyt, and Joshua Carter were appointed a committee to take a deed of the land when purchased and to superintend the building of the new meeting-house. May 2 2, 1800, this last-named committee was directed to purchase of Miss Elizabeth Greenleaf a lot of land on Pleas- ant Street in Newburyport, measuring nine rods in front and nine rods and thirteen links in depth, containing about eighty-two rods, commonly called the Rock lot, on the best terms obtainable, not to exceed JiXi 1 5.s". per rod ; and June 5 this committee was directed to build the meeting-house* according to the plans submitted, " with a cellar, a Portico or Piazza, and a handsome Helfr\- antl .SjMre," and the mem- bership of the committee w:is enlarged b)' the a])piiintment of John (jreenleaf. In 1764, the town of Newbui^port was incorpoi'ated, and the Third Parish in Newbiu')' was subsequenth' known as the l'"irst Parish in Newbur)|)ort. l*\"b. 22, 1794, se\eral THIRD PARISH IN NEWBURY 443 societies in the town were, by an act of the General Court, made corporations for the purpose of holding real estate and other property : and the proprietors of this meeting-house were authorized to provide for the support and maintenance of public worship, under the name of " The First Religious Society of Newburyport." By an additional act passed June 12, 1800, the members of the society were authorized to sell their old meeting-house, purchase land, and erect a new build- ing. "The sale of the old meeting-house and land shall not in any manner affect the existence of the first religious society of Newburyport as a corporation, nor its powers, rights, or duties ; but the same corporation shall be deemed and holden in the law to have the same existence and continuance with the same powers, rights, and duties it now has, whether the members thereof attend the public worship of God in the old meeting-house aforesaid, or in the new meeting-house to be erected as aforesaid." July 10, 1800, the town of Newburyport voted to purchase the land under and adjoining the old meeting-house, and July 17 the proprietors of the Third Parish "Voted that the said Proprietors do hereby grant and agree to and with said Town that their, the said Proprietors land, under and adjoin- ing their said House of Public Worship, shall and may be laid out in manner as the Law directs as and for a Town Way to and for the Use of said Towm forever, the said Town paying or securing the payment of the sum of eight Thou- sand dollars to said Proprietors within thirty days from this date. . . . And it is further provided that said Proprietors do reserve the right of keeping said house on said land for the purpose of Public Worship therein until the first day of November, 1801, and shall be allowed a reasonable time afterward to remove the same, with the cellar wall, &c." The deed conveying this property for a consideration of $4,400, from " The Proprietors of the First Religious Society in Newburyport " to the town of Newbur}'port, was dated July 18, 1800, and recorded in the Registry of Deeds, book 167, leaf 20. The balance required to make up the sum of $8,000 was raised by voluntary contributions and by an assessment on the owners of land in that vicinity. THIRD PARISH IX XEIVBURY 445 Sept. 2 1, 1 80 1, the parish appointed a committee to pur- chase a lot of land adjoining the new meeting-house, on the northwesterly side, provided it can be obtained at a reason- able price ; and the same day authorized Ebenezer Stocker, Nathan Hoyt, Joshua Carter, Jacob Perkins, and Gilman White, " to dispose of the old bell and jnirchase a new one, not exceeding fifteen hundred pounds' weight, either at Boston, London, or elsewhere as the committee may think best." Services were held in the old meeting-house for the last time on Sunday, Sept. 27, 1801. On that occasion Rev. Thomas Gary preached an interesting sermon that was after- ward printed at the request of his parishioners. The next day the building was taken down ; and the land under and adjoining the same became public property, and is now known as Market Square. The new meeting-house on Pleasant Street was dedicated Oct. I, 1 80 1, with appropriate religious exercises. Rev. John Andrews preaching the dedicatory sermon from the text, " Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise : be thankful unto him, and bless his name " (Psalm c : 4). On the twenty-third day of December, 1802, a resolution of thanks was adopted and entered upon the records in acknowledgment of the faithful and important services ren- dered by the committee specially appointed to superintend its erection. Rev. Thomas Gary died Nov. 24, 1808. F"uneral services were held in the new meeting-house, Rev. John Andrews preaching a sermon appropriate to the occasion, which was afterward printed by order of the parish. During the next ten or fifteen years there was considerable uneasiness and dissatisfaction among the members of the society, aggravated and intensified by the political opinions and doctrinal views occasionally uttered in the pulpit. W'hile this condition of affairs lasted, the Sui\day worshippers gradu- ally diminished in number. It became necessary, however, for those who desired to dissolve their connection with the 446 OULD NEWBURY parish to notify the clerk in a legal manner, in order to escape taxation ; and frequent communications like the fol- lowing are entered upon the records : — Nkwburvport, 8"' March, 1809. To the Clerk of the thirst Religious Society in Newburyport. Presuming that 1 may be better and more particularly acquainted and instructed in the principles of the gospel of our Lord, under the pastoral care of the Rev. John Giles than elsewhere, 1 have, for that and other special reasons, thought proper to attend to devotional wor- ship in his society in preference to that of the First Religious Society in Newburyport. You are therefore notified that 1 am no longer a member of that society, and request in future not to be taxed there as ^'■''^ Abel Staxwood. Newburyport, 29 April, 1814. To the Clerk of the First Religious Society in Newburyport. Sir, Joseph Marquand, being aggrieved at .Mr. Andrews I'ulpit lieing a V^ehickle of Slander on the 22'"' February and 4"' of July annually against the Government of the United States, wishes to withdraw his name from the Books of the First Religious Society in Newburyport. and does hereby give notice that he is no longer a member of said ^"'^'^^>'- Jos Marqu.axd. , 1 /• • 1 I' Newi'.urvport. Ai^ril 27. 1816. Jacob Gerrish. Fsq. ' ' Sui\ 1 wish my name to be wihdrawn from the reckods of the First Religious Society in this Towne as 1 can gow where 1 can liear preach- ing that .sutes me .\: my famyly better. Joseph (iKAXOER. Newbi'rvpoki'. .April 13. 1817. To the Clerk of the i-'irst Keligious Society. Sir. tliis will inform you that 1 attend public worship at St. {'aul's Ciuirch under the I'astoral charge of the ReV' James Morss. and wish not to l)c taxed at N'our nu'ctinir. ,■ > ■ THIRD PARISH IN NEWBURY 447 Rev. John Andrews remained in charge of the parish until May 5, 1830, when, on account of ill-health and the i, infirmities of age, he resigned his pas- toral cares, but did not sever his con- nection with the society. He continued to reside in Newburyport dining the rest of his life, and died there August 17, 1845. He was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery. Rev. Thomas B. Fox, of Boston, was ordained pastor of the society Aug. 3, 1 83 1, Rev. Charles Lowell, a descend- ant of Rev. John Lowell, the first pastor, preaching the ordination sermon. He remained in active service until April i , 1 846, when he resigned, and removed to Boston. During his pastorate " the Proprietors purchased the lot of land with the buildings thereon lately owned by Robert Laird, contiguous to and on the north side of the Meeting House." Since that date the following clergy- men have been settled as ministers in the Third Church of Newbury, now or- ganized and incorporated as " The First Religious Society of Newburyport," SPIRE OF MEETING-HOUSE namclv ' BUILT IN 1801. '' ^ Rev. Thomas W. Hia;sinson from Sept. 15. 1S47 to Sept. 16. 1849. Rev. Charles J. laowen Rev. Artemus B. Muzzey Rev. Joseph May Rev. George L. Stowell Rev. Daniel W. Morehouse Rev. Samuel C. Beane Nov. 2Q. 1850 Sept. 3, 1857 July 21. 1868 April 12, 1877 April 8, 1 88 1 April 14, 1 888. June 10, 1853. \ov. I, 1864. Dec. 15. 1875. Sept. 8. 1879. Dec. 5, 1887. ^ LOWELL HOUSE. Rev. John Lowell was regularly ordained and settled as minister of the Third Parish in Newbury Jan. 19, 1726, although he practically assumed its duties several months earlier. Judge Samuel Sewall, in a letter, dated Boston, Jan. 15, 1725-6, to his cousin Henry Sewall, at Newbury, writes with reference to this event : — 'Tis a great thing to be a Foundation Stone in such a .Spiritual Building as is now to be erected at Newbury. Am glad your proceed- ings are so far prospered as that you have a prospect of having your Pastor (Mr. John Lowell) ordained next Wednesday. My love to you. your wife and children, and to cousin Abraham Toppan and his family. Pray for me that God would not forsake me now that I am old and Gray-headed. ^^^^ Loving Unkle Sajiuel Sewall. Rev. Mr. Lowell married, Dec. 23, 1725, Sarah Champney, daughter of Noah and Sarah (Tunnell) Champney, and prob- ably commenced housekeeping in a house built about the year 1710 by Edmund Greenleaf on Greenleaf's lane, now State Street. From a deed recorded in book 21, leaf 192, of the Essex Registry of Deeds, it appears that Stephen Greenleaf sold, for ^75, March 2, 1709, two acres of land to Edmund Greenleaf, no house being mentioned. June 10, 1723, Ed- mund Greenleaf conveyed to John Cheyney house, barn, land, etc., valued at ^1,400 (book 41, leaf 86). Sept. 14, 1724, John Cheyney conveyed the land, with the buildings thereon, to Thomas Brown, Jr. (book 47, leaf 31). May 23, 1726, Thomas Brown, Jr., of Newbury, yeoman 45° OULD NEWBURY and butcher, for and in consideration of ^320, conveyed to John Lowell, clerk, of Newbury, house, barn, and two acres of land in Newbury, described and bounded as follows : east- erly by Greenleaf's lane, southerly b}' land of John Coffin, westerly by land of Bcnaiah Tittcomb and land of Parker Greenleaf, deceased, and northerly by land of Ambrose Berry (book 48, leaf 207). Rev. John Lowell was born in Boston March 14, 1704, He was a son of Kbenezer Lowell, who was a lineal descend- ant of Percival Lowle (as the name was originally written), who came with his wife Llizabeth and three children, John, Richard, and Joan, to Newbury in 1639. He was seven- teen years old when he graduated at Harvard College in 1 72 1, and less than twenty-two when he was ordained minister of the Third Parish. By his first wife he had two sons, one of whom died in 1736, when only eight months old. The other was the distinguished judge, John Lowell, born June 17, 1743. His wife, Sarah (Champney) Lowell, died June 28, 1756, aged fifty-two. For his second wife, he mar- ried, in 1758, I^lizabeth, widow of Rev. Joseph Whipple, pas- tor of the church at Hampton Falls, N. H. He had no chil- dren by this marriage. Mr. Lowell was a man of scholarly tastes and liberal theological views. He was inclined to con- sider life and character as of more importance than creeds, and his writings indicate great magnanimity of thought and sentiment. He owned and occupied the house (mi Green- leaf's lane until his death, which occurred May 15, "^"(^J. He was buried in the Old Hill biu'ying ground ; and the people to whom he had ministered for forty-two years erected a monument that still " testifies to the world their grateful remembrance of his faithful services." His son, John Lowell, counsellor at law, married Sarah Higginson Jan. 3. 1767. After his father's decease he occupied the house until March 9, 1771, when he sold, for X920, "the house in which 1 now li\e " to l'ati"ick irac)', merchant, ol Xewlnir\ port. I>\' the same con\'eyance l'".lizal)eth Lowell, widow, and .Sarah Lowell, his wife, released their I'ights of dower (l^ssex Registry of Deeds, book 128, leaf 257). LOWELL HOUSE 451 Through the influence of Patrick Tracy, and other land owners in that vicinity, Greenleaf's lane was widened and called Fish Street. The Lowell homestead was removed to Temple Street, and the brick building now used for a public library was erected on the site thus made vacant. A ct)mmunication published in the A'cwbiiijport Herald fifty years ago gives the following interesting description of an old painting that formerly occupied an honored position over the fireplace in the old Lowell mansion : — The first house (now the second) on the ri^^ht hand side of Temple Street as you enter it from State Street was formerly the residence of Rev. John Lowell, the first pastor of the Third Church in Newbury, now the First Church in Newburyport. This house originally stood in State Street, where the Tracy house now stands. It must be more than a century old. In a back room, supposed to have been the study of Mr. Lowell, on a large panel over the fireplace, is a curious old painting, more remarkable certainly as a curiosity than as a work of art. About two-thirds of the panel is taken up with what seems to be a representation of some volcanic mountains. The other third contains a picture of a '-Ministers' Meeting."" Seven divines, most of them with countenances indicative of a good deal of the odiiiiu theologicitiii. with huge white wigs, gowns, and bands, are sitting on high-back chairs, around a table, in solemn conclave. On the table are a Bible, a candle, a bowl of tobacco, and a lot of pipes. Thev seem to be listening to or criticising a manuscript, probably some heretical utterance of the new views of their day. These worthies are in a sort of alcove, over the top of which runs this motto, — ••/// necessariis, iiiiitas ; in iion- necessariis, libertas ; in utrisque, c/Kuitas," — which mav be translated thus: In essentials, unity : in non-essentials, libertv: in both, charitv. Who painted this picture, and whether the faces are likenesses or not, is more than we can tell. The work is rude enough. The artist seems to have had a sovereign contempt for the laws of perspective. The Bible stands inclined a little, without any support : and the most natural things about the whole affair are the pipes and the wigs. The painting must be very old. as Mr. Lowell was ordained in 1 726 and died in i 767. We hope this ancient relic will be carefully preserved. It furnishes a curious contrast to the present times. Such formidable ministers" meetings have passed away, and white wigs have lost their power. •• Tenipora nnitaiitur, cf nos inutanius in iilis.'' Some years after the pidDlication of this commimication, Rev. Thomas W'entworth Higginson, then a resident of New- 452 OULD NE]VBCKY bun'port, l)()UL;iit, for Janics Russell Lowell, this curious old panel, and, with the consent of Mr. Cieorge Fitz, who owned the house at that time, had it carefully removed, and sent to Cambridge, Mass. Idle house is still standing on Temi:)]e Street. A two-story L has been added to the southeast corner, but otherwise no material changes or alterations have been made in its outward appearance since it was removed to its present site. This addition cannot be seen as one approaches the house from State Street, and is not visible from the point of view chosen for the photo-engraving on page 448. OLD HILL BURYING GROUND. The Third Parish in Newbury was organized in 1725. Rev. John Lowell was settled as minister Jan. 19, 1726. In order to provide suitable accommodation for the instruction of children and the burial of the dead within the limits of the parish, a committee, consisting of William Johnson and Will- iam Titcomb, was chosen Nov. 26, 1729, to select a place for a school-house and also for a burying place. The parish voted, March 17, 1729-30, to set the new school-house by Frog Pond, between Pish Street (now State Street) and Queen Street (now Market Street) ; and the assessors were authorized to enclose with a board fence, for a burial place, the lot of land in the rear of Frog Pond, then known as Snelling's hill. Dr. William Snelling,* who was a physician in Newbury in 1650, and who removed to Boston in 1654, owned land in that neighborhood which may possibly have extended to the crest of the hill. It is impossible, however, in the absence of definite information, to state with accuracy the bounds and limits of his estate. The town records are vague and uncer- * Complaint was made to the county court held at Salem that Doctor Snelling had spoken disrespectfully of his neighbors. His testimony and the testimony of his friends is as follows : — This is to certify whom it may concern that we, the subscribers, being called upon to testify against (Doctor) William Suelling for words by him uttered, afifirm that being in way of merrv' discourse, a health being drunk to all friends, he answered, I'll pledge my friends. And for my foes A plague for their heels And a poxe for their toes. Since when he hath affirmed that he only intended the pro\erb used in the west country, nor do we believe he intended otherwise. William Thoma.s. Thomas Milward. March 12, 1651-2, all which 1 acknowledge, and I am sorry 1 did not express my intent, or that I was so weak as to use so foolish a proverb. (Iulielmus Snelling. Notwithstanding this humble apology Doctor Snelling was •'lined ten shillings and cost of court." OLD HILL BURYIXG GROUND 455 tain, and absolutely nothing can be gathered frtMii the reg- istry of deeds at Salem relating to this subject. Whether the land now known as the Old Hill burying ground was acquired by purchase or by grant from the town of Newbury, remains, therefore, somewhat in doubt ; but the parish evi- dentl}' made use of it for burial purposes for more than a century. On the summit of the hill. Rev. John Lowell, the first minister of the parish, was buried in 1768; and on the southerly slope, not far from the Hill Street entrance, is the grave of his successor in the ministry, Rev. Thomas Gary, who died Nov. 24, 1808. The inscriptions on the tablets that have been erected to their memory will be found in full on page 379 of Coffin's History of Newbury. Rev. Christopher B. Marsh, pastor of the North Church, Rev. John Murray, pastor of the Old South Church, and Rev. Charles W. Milton, pastor of the Prospect Street Church, are buried only a few rods distant ; and their epitaphs also have been transcribed, and will be found in the same volume, page 385. Other citizens of Newbury and Newburyport, prominent in social, political, and professional life, rest beneath the sod of this old burying ground. Many of the tombstones and marble slabs that mark their graves show signs of age, and need to be carefully repaired and relettered. A few of the interesting and noteworthy names and dates to be found on these moss-covered stones are as follows : — Richard Kent died May 8, 1740, aged sixty-eight. "Colo- nel of the Second Regiment in the County of Essex." Sarah Lowell, wife of Hon. John Lowell, and daughter of Stephen Higginson, of Salem, Mass., died May 5, 1772. Daniel Farnham, an eminent barrister and prominent loyalist, died May 18, 1776, aged fifty-six. Nathaniel Tracy, a distinguished merchant during the Revolutionary War, died Sept. 21, 1796, aged forty-fi\-e. Hon. Benjamin Greenleaf, judge of probate for Essex County and afterward chief justice of the court of common pleas, died Jan. 13, 1799, aged sixty-seven. 456 OULD NEWBURY Hon. Thcophilus l^radbury, one of the justices of the supreme judicial court of Massachusetts, died Sept. 6, 1803, aged sixty-four. Timothy Dexter, "The Lord of the East, Lord of the West, and the greatest philosopher in the known world," died Oct. 26, 1S06. GRAVESTONES OF TIMOTHY DEXTER AND WIFE. Samuel Lord Dexter, his son, died jul\' 20, i S07. I'^lizaheth Dexter, his wife, died jul\' 3, i S09. Charles Herbert, confined in the Old Mill Prison at Pl\-mouth, I'jigland, during the Re\-olutionar}- War, died in Newhur}port Sept. 3, 1808, aged fift\--one. OLD HILL BURYING GROUXD 457 Micajah Sawyer, M. D., an accomplished scholar and emi- nent physician, died Sept. 29, 181 5, aged seventy-eight. Timothy Palmer, inventor of the long wooden arch used in the construction of the Essex-Merrimack bridge in 1792, born in Boxford, Mass., died in Newburyport Dec. 19, 1821, aged seventy. Elder Robert Murray, father of Rev. John Murray, died Dec. 13, 1790, aged ninety-one. Theodore Parsons, infant son of Theophilus Parsons and Elizabeth Parsons, died Feb. 18, 1787. "Mrs. Mary Toppan, born in Boston Nov. 11, O. S. 1727, died in Newburyport Jan. 9, 1833, aged one hundred and five years, one month, and fifteen days." Nathaniel Knapp, who was with the PZnglish troops under General Amherst at the second capture of Louisburg, died July 7, 1 8 16, aged eighty-one years. The stone that marks his grave was also erected in memory of his son, Jacob Knapp, who was at the battle of Bunker Hill, and died at sea in 1776 in the twentieth year of his age. On the summit of the hill, near the corner of Pond and Greenleaf Streets, there is a moss-covered slab that bears the following curious epitaph : — OiniieDi crcde diem tibi diluxissc Suprcnniiii. Sacred to the Memory of Mrs. Mary McHard, the virtuous & ami- able consort of Capt. William McHard of NewburyPort, who amidst the Laudable exertions of a very useful .S: desirable life in which her Christian Profession was well adorne'', and a fair copy of every social virtue displayed, was in a state of health suddenly summoned to the skies & snatched from ye eager embraces of her friends (and the throbbing hearts of her disconsolate family confessed their fairest prospects of sublunary bliss were in one moment dashed) by swallowing a pea at her own table whence in a few hours she sweetly breathed her soul away into her Saviours arms on the 8"' day of March A.D. 1780. ^tatis 47. This mournful stone, as a faithful Monument of virtue fled to realms above & a solemn Monitor to all below the stars, is erected by her Husband. 45 8 OULD A^EWBURY On the northwesterly side of the hill, near the grave of Timothy Dexter, is a modest slab that bears the following inscrij^jtion : — Sacred to the Memory of that valuable Instructor. Capt. Thomas Clouston who in the midst of great usefulness took his departure on Monday evening Aug. lo. 1795 .-Et 52. Happy the Seaman who his Compass knows And steers to Heaven tho' storm & tempest blows. His Admiral's signal quickly he saw fly. Which bid his bark to sail l)eyond the sky. His sails he trimmed & took his leave of all. Knowing it right to obey his Admiral's call. Erected by his late pupils. Not far distant is a stone erected In Memory of M"' Richard Page who Was Drowned July 13"' 1780. Aged 30. A Wits A Feather And A Chief A Rod. An Honest Man's the Noblest Work of God. One of the most unique and strikingly characteristic epitaphs in this old bin-ying ground reads as follows: — Here lies Interred the Body of Cap' William Starkey who Departed this Life October the 28"' I 766 in tlio 49"' year of his age. OLD HILL BURYING GROUND 459 Tho Neptunes waves & Boreas Blasts Has toss"d me to and Fro, In Spite of both, by (iod's Decree, I'm Anchored here below. Where now I do at Anchor Ride With many of our Fleet. I Hope again I shall set Sail My Saviour Christ to Meet.* In the following inscription, cut on the gravestone of another old ship-master, who died more than twenty years later, the same thought is expressed in somewhat different language : — Here lies Buried the Body of Cap' Joseph Newman Ohiit ii"' of Jaw A.D. 17SS at Sea. ^-E tat is 45 }'ears. By Borea's blasts and Neptune's waves, I was toss'd to and fro. Now, well escap'd from all their rage, I anchor here below. Safely I ride in triumph here, With many of our fleet ; 'Till signal calls to weigh again. Our Admiral Christ to meet. Among the noticeable gravestones in this old burying ground is one erected to the memory of Deacon Parker Noyes. It is of light gray color, tinged with yellow, and bears an inscription cut with unusual care and skill. The elaborate scroll work, with the figures representing angels, at the top of the stone, the shape and style of the memorial letters, and the ornamental border of oak leaves and acorns * Captain William Starkey was a member of the Fellowship Club, organized in Boston June I, 1742. At a meeting of the club held Jan. 7, 1752, it was voted "that Capt. Wm Starkey be paid out of the Box Twenty one Pounds Ten Shillings Old Tenor, being all the Cash at present in the Box, and that he shall be reliev'd further According to the Ability of the Box, and that the present Clerk. G. Tidmarsh, Forward the Same to him at Newbury, his Dwelling place, iK: that the said G. Tidmarsh write him a letter on ye same in Behalf of the Society." Feb. 2, 1754, the Fellowship Club, under the name of the Marine Society of Boston, was granted an act of incorporation by William Shirley, go\-emor of the pro\ince of Massachusetts Bay, and in that act, among the corporators, the name of William Starkey stands at the head of the list. 460 OULD NEWnURY surr()unclii\i;" the inscription are reproduced in the half-tone print that accompanies this sketch. The alphabetical lists, i - C "A J ! nip FT GRAVESTONE IN OLD HILL BURYING GROUND. beneath the inscrijnion, were cxidently placed there to show the ability ol the stone cutler, and, perhaps, incidentally to adxcrlise liis work. OLD HILL B CRYING GROUND 461 llie limits of the old burying ground were extended when the most desirable places on the hill had been appropriated for the accommodation of the silent congregation gathered there. The plan of Frog Pond and vicinity, drawn in 1771 and reproduced, in connection with the sketch of Bartlett Mall on a subsequent page of this book, gives the dimen- sions of the burying ground as originally laid out. In 1790, the town of Newburyport " voted to enlarge and fence the burying place as thought bes't." The lower portion, extend- ing to the junction of Pond and Auburn Streets, was then added, and has since formed a part of the sacred enclosure. In the valley on the northwesterly side of the hill, sloping gently down from Greenleaf Street to the lower level below, is a long row of gravestones, standing side by side, erected by friends and relatives to the memoiy of those refugees and exiles from persecution and oppression whose wanderings and earthly troubles ended here. The inscriptions on these stones are simple and suggestive. They speak of foreign lands and noble birth and parentage. Whittier, in his poem "The Countess," alludes to one who came with this band of exiles to this quiet neighborhood, and afterward lived for a while at Rocks Village, East Haverhill, and married, March 21, 1805, Mary Ingalls, daughter of Henry and Abigail In- galls of that place. When peace was restored on the islands of Guadaloupe and St. Domingo, many of these strangers re- turned to their homes ; but some of their number are quietly resting in the Old Hill burying ground. From the low stones that mark their graves the following inscriptions are taken : — Sacred to tlie nioiiory of M r P o }■ e n S T : S A u \' E u R li'ho for a long time 7i'crs An Inhabitant &^ a respectable Planter in the Island of Guadaloupe, died Oct : if' ijq2. Aged 52 Ve^rs. 462 OULD XEWBURY Mr. Mederic Dumas. Xatif de Bordeaux Jiabitaiit dii ford Daitpliin Isle S' Dominque di'ccdf a Newburyport Ic 9"' Mai 1 792, Age de 49 A iis. '•The grave beneath the Thorn Tree," written by Han- nah F. Gould and published fifty years ago in a volume en- titled " Gathered Leaves," contains an interesting description of " Marie Felicite Nadau," who sleeps peacefully by the side of her kinsmen and friends. The inscription on her grave- stone reads as follows : — Ci-git MARIE f^ELICITE NADAU nee a la Basseterre (kiadaloupe decede le 19* Fevrier 1S12, A gee de 25 ans et 6 111 ois Epoitse de M'' Pierre Alerlande Habitant an guar tier de Sf Rose de la dite lie. The story of her life is too long to be inserted here. Her husband and brother, sad and disconsolate, soon after her burial took their departure for the island of Guadaloupe in a vessel sailing under a neutral flag ; but the monumental slab erected to her memory still stands, a silent testimonial of affection, and still attracts the wandering footsteps of the stranger to her grave. On the opposite side of the old burying ground, not far from the junction of Pond and Auburn Streets, seven of the crew of the brig " Pocahontas " are buried. The vessel, bound from Cadiz to Newburyport, James G. Cook, master, was wrecked on Plum Island during a severe storm, and all on board perished. Some of the bodies were recovered a few days later. Wrapped in the American flag, the}- were borne into the broad aisle of the Old South Church, where funeral services were held. A long procession, numbering several hundred persons, followed the unknown dead to their last OLD HILL BURYIXG GROUXD 463 resting place. A marble tablet, erected to their memory by the members of the Newburyport Bethel Society, bears the following inscription : — Here lie the remains of Seven of the unfortunate Crew of the Brig Pocahontas which was wrecked on Plumb Island Dec. 23, 1839. In foreign lands their humble grave adorned Bv strangers honored and bv strangers mourned.' COLONEL MOSES TITCOMB. William Titcomb, one of the early settlers of Newbury, is said to have come to New England with his wife, Joan Bart- lett, daughter of Richard Bartlett, Sr., in the ship "Her- cules." He was made a freeman in 1642, and one of the selectmen of the town in 1646. He was also representative to the General Court in 1655. According to the provisions of the will of Richard Bartlett, printed on page 231 of this book, he bequeathed "to his daughter Johan, wife of William Titcomb, one pair of new shoes for herselfe, and her four daughters each one a pair of shoes." Joan (l^artlett) Titcomb died June 28, 1653 ; and Will- iam Titcomb married Elizabeth Stevens, widow of William Stevens, March 3, 1654. Mrs. Stevens' maiden name is sup- posed to have been Bitsfield. The will of Elizabeth Bitsfield, dated Sept. 23, 1669, gives to the children of William Tit- comb /^5, to be equally divided among them, and "to my daughter I'^lizabeth Titcomb ^10." In 1670, the town of Newbury "granted to William Tit- comb and Amos Stickney the little pine swamp to be their propriety, with skirts of the comnK)n, provided they make and maintain a sufficient fence about the hole for the safety of the cattle from time to time." Eittle Pine swamp was on the south side of Oak Hill cemetery, and at the time of the grant was surrounded by common, or undivided, land. The hole that was to be fenced with so much care remains in substantially the same condition as when the grant was made. It is, in fact, a deep de]:)ression in the low swampy ground at the foot of Oak Hill, and forms a natural basin for tjuitc a respectable jiond that was utilized fifty years ago as a COLONEL MOSI-.S TITCOMB 4^5 source of water supply for one of the manufacturing corpora- tions of Newburyport. William Titcomb died Sept. 24, 1676. His oldest son (Penuel) by his first wife owned land in the vicinity of Frog pond, near where the Boston & Maine Railroad freight sta- tion now stands. He is named as executor and residuary legatee in his father's will. One of the sons of William Titcomb, by his second mar- riage, was William, born Aug. 14, 1659. He married Ann Cottle, daughter of William Cottle, May 15, 1683. The, Cottles lived in what is now Bromfield Street, formerly Cottle's lane, and were large owners of land in that vicinity. William Titcomb, Jr., and Ann (Cottle) Titcomb, his wife, had eleven children, among them a son Moses, who died young; and July 8, 1707, another son Moses, who lived to be an officer in the colonial army under Sir William Pep- perell at the siege of Louisburg, and afterward a colonel under General Johnson at the battle of Lake George. Nov. 23, 1728, Moses Titcomb notified the town clerk of Newbury of his intended marriage to Merriam Currier, of Amesbury. The marriage ceremony was performed Dec. 19, 1728, by Rev. Edmond Marsh, of Amesbury. Merriam Currier, the daughter of Richard and Dorothy Currier, was born April 10, 171 1. The children of Moses and Merriam (Currier) Titcomb were as follows : — Anne, born Oct. 5, 1729; married Joseph Wilcomb. Hannah, born in August. 1731 ; married Ebenezer Greenleaf Dec. 21, 1760. Merriam, born Jan. 4, 1732-3 ; married Nicholas Tracy. Moses, born Feb. 20, 1734-5! married Phebe (Marsh?). Lois, born Nov. 2, 1736; died in 1743. Mary, born March 13, 1742; married Robert Rogers Oct. 15, 1761. Lois! born Sept. 18. 1750; married Andrew Frothingham April 10. 1772. Abigail born in November, 1752; baptized Nov. 19. 1752- Nicholas, born July 23, 1754; baptized July 28, 1754. During the French and English War, Moses Titcomb, imbued with the military spirit of the times, enlisted in the COL. MOSES TITCOMB. COLONEL MOSES TITCOMB 467 service, and, holding the rank of major, was present at the capture of Louisburg June 16, 1745. From memoranda transcribed at the war ofifice in London, England, and pub- lished in the register of the Society of Colonial Wars, Boston, Mass., 1895, it appears that Feb. 7, 1744-5, Moses Titcomb was commissioned, by the crown, captain of the Third company and major of the Fifth ^lassachusetts regi- ment. The second volume of "A Half-Century of Conflict," by Francis Parkman, has a map showing the position of Colonel Titcomb's battery at the siege of Louisburg ; and on page 1 24 the author says : — The West Gate, the principal gate of Louisbourg, opened upon the tract of high, firm ground that lav on the left of the besiegers, between the marsh and the harbor, an arm of which here extended westward beyond the town, into what was called the Barachois, a salt pond formed by a projecting spit of sand. On the side of the Barachois, farthest from the town, was a hillock on which stood the house of an habitant named Martissan. Here, on the 20th of May, a fifth battery was planted, consisting of two of the French forty-two pounders taken in the Grand Battery, to which three others were afterwards added. Each of these heavy pieces was dragged to its destination by a team of three hundred men over rough and rocky ground swept by the French artillery. This fifth battery, called the Northwest, or Titcomb's, proved most destructive to the fortress. Thomas Hutchinson, who was governor of Massachusetts from 1771 until the arrival of General Gage in May, 1774, on page 374 of the second volume of his History of the Province of Massachusetts, says, with reference to the siege and capture of Louisburg : — A constant fire was kept from the grand battery upon the town with the forty-two pounders. This greatly damaged the houses, but caused so great an expense of powder that it was thought advisable to stop and reserve it for the fascine batteries. Five of these were erected, the last on the 20th of May, called Titcomb's battery, with five forty-two pounders which did as great execution as any. The following letters, written by Major Moses Titcomb while engaged in the service of the king, under Sir William 468 OULD XEIVBCKY Pepperell, for the reduction of the fortifications at Louis- bvirg, have been carefully preserved, and are now in the possession of Mr. Alfred \\\ Lord, of Newburyport, who is a descendant of Joseph Titcomb to whom they were addressed : — Caxso, Aprel 23''. i 745. Loi^eing Brother. — Haveing this opportunity, I Redaly Imbrace it to Let vou kno that threw The Goodness of god to me & my Company we arived In this port Aprel 5"^ & found our Comador & a Numbor of our Transports with him. But Not all; But thay are all arived Sence. We Injoy a good State of helth threw out the Entire Fleet & Army. Mv Company are all in good helth & hope theas Lines will find you and your family by the Same. We have had the good fortin of haveing takeing two Briganteans & one sloop from ye French laden with Rhum, Molases, & other goods which ye Admarel have taken ye greates part for ye use of ye army, & Fited out one of ye Briggs for a privit teare, (viz.) that which Cap' Dalton & I Sold to ye French. Heare is arived this Day to our greate Joy Comadore woren with fore Men of war with him. When Joynd with our Ships, will Make Such an apearance at Louis Berg y' It will Make them Soon Strik to us. We are to Sail at two of ve Clock to morrow morning, and Pray God to Send us a good pasage theire & Cover My hed in ye Day of Batel, and give me Suck Ses over my Enemys, which is, I trust, your prayer for me. Remember my Cind Love to my wife & children & all other Frends. I Remain your Loveing Brother. ^lo^^.-, Titcomb. Being in a greate hurey I could write No more at presant. To Capt Joseph Titcoml) In Newbury. LouiSBURG. August 5"'. 1745. Lin>eing Brother, — I now wright you a few Lines to Inform you That threw the aboundant goodness of God I injoy a good State of helth. which lilessing I have been favord with Ever Sencs I Left you. I ReC' a Letter from vou Sum time ago, & am Rejoys'' to here that you & your family ware in good helth. But am verey Sorrey to here of your two Sons in Laws Being Taken By ye Enemy. I hope it will Not Be Long Befor thay will Be Returnd from tlieire Captivity again. It is a Time of ( General Ilcltli among us ^v: few Dies, Considring ye Numbor of our Armv. The Solgars groes uneasy on account of theire Being here So Long; But more Espaslv for fere tliay .Shall Be fors'd to Stay here all wintor. But for my ]Kirt I have No Reason to think But tliat my COLONEL MOSES TITCOMB 469 Company will Be ReleasVl, this fawl The Gonaral was So good as to offer me ye command of Canso to Supply the place of Capt. Cutter, who is Sent from here to ansor to Sumthing alleg^i against him. But I Declined it. How Ever about 14 of my men are a going under the Com- mand of Cool Eveleth By theire one Corps, haveing a promise to Be Dismis'' in a bout three weeks. But your Son hes more witt then to Be one of that Number; for I Do not think thay will Be Releas^i any Sooner then the Rest of my men will Be, & as to my Staying here all wintor I Shall Not Comply with it unles It Be on good Termes. But, If I Should Conclude to Remain in the King's sarvis, I shall Coome home this fawl. Our men of war have had a Create Suckses Befoure & Sents we Take this Sitty, But more Espasly ye Latar ; for thay have Taken two East India Ships verey Richly Laden & one Regastor ship Laden Cheafly with Muney. Said to Be woth foure or five hundred Thousand pounds Starlin, So that muney & goods are very plenty here, & those that have any thing to By with will make it Do well. We have Lately herd from New England that ye Indians are Broke out & Dun Sum Considerabel Damige, which I am verey Sorrey to here. We have Lately herd from Canaday by a prise vesel y' Cap: Fletcher Tuke Laden with provisions that a greate Number of French Beside Indians ware Raisd & going on an Expedition against Sum of our Settelments In New England, &, If So, I am afrade the Conseciuence will Be Bad. However, God have Been on our Side in the greate victory we have o-aind over our Enemys in this place, & hope he will Continu to Be o-racous & prosper us in all our Lawfull undertakeings. Remembor my Love to Sistor & to all your children, & Tel them your Son is in good helth. Remembor my Love to my wife & Children & all my Brothers & Sistors. I Remain your Loveing Brother Til Deth. Moses Titcomb. P: s. Give my Sarvis To Mr Morgridg & wife, & tel them I am verey Sorrey to hear of the Deth of theire Son Simeon, »S: pray that god would pleas To Santify his Deth to them & theire Family. For Cap' Joseph Titcomb In Newbury New England. Two brothers of Moses Titcomb, Joseph and Benjamin (twins), were born March 30, 1698. Joseph, to whom the above letters were addressed, married Ann Smith Oct. 4, 1 72 1. He died July 25, 1785. His eldest son, Henry, born in 1723, married Mary Titcomb, daughter of Enoch and Elizabeth Titcomb, Feb. 5, 1746-7- Enoch, born Dec. 6, 1752, was the eldest son of Henry 47 o OULD NEWBURY and I\Iary Titcomb. He married March ii, 1778, Ann Jones, daughter of Ephraim and Mary Jones, of Portland, Me. He was a brigade major under General Sullivan in Rhode Island. His commission was dated "Boston, July 3, 1778." He was also a member of the convention that formed the State constitution, and was afterward representa- tive to the General Court and State senator for several years. He was treasurer of the town of Newbury port from 1784 to 1 8 10, and town clerk from 1790 to 1796. He died Aug. 13, 1814. His daughter Fanny, born May 16, 1797, married Moses Lord, who was postmaster of Newburyport from 181 2 to 1840. To Mr. Alfred W. Lord, son of Moses and Fanny (Titcomb) Lord, these old letters, with other papers relating to Colonel Moses Titcomb, have been transmitted. After the capture of Louisburg, Major Titcomb was ap- pointed to the command of the troops stationed at Falmouth (now Portland), Me. He accepted the position, and was on duty there from May until October in 1747. When peace was restored between France and P2ngland, Major Titcomb returned to Newbury, where he remained until the renewal of hostilities between the two rival powers in 1755. He then re-enlisted in the service, was made colonel of a regiment, and ordered to report at once for duty. Rev. John Lowell, pastor of the third church in Newbury, preached a sermon, May 22, 1755, before Colonel Titcomb and the men under his command, just previous to their de- parture for the seat of war. This sermon was subsequently published, with some brief introductory remarks commending the courage and heroism of Colonel Titcomb. The text was taken from Deuteronomy xx : 4: " For the Lord your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you." The names of the officers of this regiment, with their terms of service, were entered on the pay-roll now in the Massachu- setts Archives (volume 95, jiage 96) ; but this otficiai register does not contain the names ot those who serxed in tlic ranks. COLONEL MOSF.S TITCOMB 471 Bancroft's History of the United States (volume g, page 210, edition 1854) has a plan of the battle ground at Crown Point, showing the position of Colonel Titcomb's regiment. He had command of the extreme right wing of General John- son's line. In the height of the conflict, when the battle was raging furiously, " he got behind a large pine-tree, about one rod distant from the end of the breast-work, where he could stand up and command his men who were lying flat on the ground, and where he could have a better opportunity to use his own piece. Here, he was insensibly flanked by a party of Indians, who crept around a large pine log across a swamp about eighty yards distant, and shot him. Colonel Titcomb and Lieutenant Baron stood behind the same tree, and both fell at the same fire. This was about four o'clock in the afternoon of Monday, the eighth day of September, 1755 " (Coffin's History of Newbury, page 222). The news of this sad event was received in Newbury with expressions of profound grief. Memorial exercises were held in the meeting-house in Market Square ; and Rev. Mr. Lowell delivered a sermon from the text, " Moses my ser- vant is dead," to be found in the first chapter of Joshua and second verse. This sermon was published in 1760 by Messrs. Edes and Gill, of Queen Street, Boston. Colonel Titcomb owned, and his family occupied at the time of his death, a house in Newbury ( now Newbury- port), on the northwesterly corner of Merrimack Street and a way leading to High Street, now known as Olive Street. Administration was granted on his estate in 1755, "^^^^ <^^i^'i- sion of the property was not made until 1 767. At the last-named date there was set off to his eldest son, Moses Titcomb, " that part of the mansion house known by the name of the old part with the land under the same, bounded easterly on the lot (next described) called the new end of the house, and westerly on the field set off to lot (third next described) at the west end of the barn, northerly on Bradbury's land, and southerly on the . . . way which is left to be used in common." To his son, Nicholas Titcomb, was awarded " that part of the mansion house known by the \X^sN COLONEL MOSES TLTCO.VB 473 name of the new end with the land under the same and adjoining, bounded easterly on Merrimack Street, northerly on Bradbury's land, westerly on the old house set off to lot (described next preceding), and southerly on the . . . common way." This old house was standing until the summer of 1895, when it was taken down, and a new house erected on the spot. The photo-engraving of Colonel Titcomb that accompanies this sketch is taken from a portrait now in the possession of Mr. Robert Frothingham, of Brooklyn, N. Y., who is a son of the late Mr. Henry Frothingham, of Newburyport, and grandson of Andrew Frothingham, who married, April 10, 1772, Lois Titcomb, daughter of Colonel Moses lltcomb. The name of the artist and the place where, and the time when, the portrait was painted are unknown. It was the property of Andrew Frothingham during his lifetime, and has remained in the possession of his descendants ever since. A copy of this portrait, in oil colors, hangs in the Public Library building in Newburyport. THE DALTON HOUSE. Philemon Dalton came to New E^ngland in 1635, witli liis wife Dorothy and one son, Samuel, then about six years of age. He settled first at Uedham, Mass., but soon removed to Hampton, N. H. As early as Dec. 24, 1639, he was granted one hundred acres of land within the limits of the last named town ; and in April, 1641, he was a member of the commit- tee appointed to confer with the authorities at Newbury and Salisbury in regard to the ferry across the Merrimack River established soon after that date by George Carr. Samuel Dalton, son of Philemon, married Mehetabel, daughter of Henry Palmer, of Haverhill, Mass. He was a man of considerable ability and influence in the town of Hampton, and held many offices of trust during his life. His son Philemon, bom Dec. 15, 1664, married Abigail, daughter of PIdward Gove, Sept. 25, 1690, and had ten chil- dren. Their youngest son, Michael Dalton, was born P'eb. 22, 1709. He came to Newbury when quite a young man, and entered upon a sea-faring life. He soon attained com- mand of a ship, and made several successful voyages. He married Feb. 5, 1733-4, Mary Little, daughter of Tristram Little. A few years later he established himself in business as a merchant, and purchased a house on the northerly side of Market Square for the sum of ^1,000. At this date Tristram Little lived on the southeasterly side of the square, near the present corner of Liberty Street. Michael Dalton was an active and influential member of St. Paul's Church, and contributed largely to its support. He was elected one of the vestrymen of that church in 1743, and was annually re-elected to that ofifice until 1770, with the exception of two years, 1756 and 1757, when he served as warden. 476 OULD XEWBURY May 15, 1746. lie bought of " (lideon ]^artlett, of Alms- bury, tanner, with consent of his wife Abigail, for ^a,6oo, old tenor," about three acres of land in Newbury, bounded " Westerly on Greenleaf 's lane or Fish Street, southerly on y*" land of Nathan Hale, Esq., in })art and partly on ye land of John Xewnian, easterly on s'^ Newman's land and }'' land of M'' Anthony Sumersby, northeast or northerly on land of y'' heirs of ye late James Peirson, deceased, with y house & houslins thereon " (Essex Deeds, book 88, page 109). (3n this land Michael Dalton erected a fine house, with a DALTON HOUSE. spacious barn and court-yard adjoining, h'lfteen or twenty years ago the barn was removed to make room for (harden Street and for the contemplated improvements in that vicinity ; but the house is still standing, and is now the jjrojierty of Mr. Timoth)' Remick, of l^oston. Michael Dalton was evidently a man of large means, and interested in agricultural i:)ursuits. 1 le bought a large farm of nearly two hundred acres on Pipe Stave Hill, in West New- bury, which after his death was occupied by his son Tristram as a ct)untry seat. In 1765, he purchased some wharf prop- erty at the foot of Market Street, then called (Juccn Street, and established a distillery there. lie was also e.\tensi\ely THE DALTOX I/O USE 477 engaged in the importation of foreign goods and the exi)orta- tion of domestic products. He died March i, 1770, and was buried in St. Paul's churchyard. His widow married Cap- tain Patrick Tracy March 25, 1773, and died Dec. 10, 1791, aged seventy-eight. She also was buried in the churchyard by the side of her first husband. Previous to the organization of the parish of St. Paul's and the erection of a church building on the corner of Queen and High Streets, Captain Michael Dalton and his wife, Mary (Little) Dalton, were members of the Third Church in New- DALTON HOUSE STABLE. bury, now the Y'nst Religious Society in Newburyport. From the records of this society it appears that Mary,* daughter of Captain Dalton, was baptized Dec. 22, 1734. Michael. t son of Captain Dalton, was baptized Nov. 7, 1736. Tristram, son of Captain Dalton, was baptized June 4, 1738. Tristram was born in Newbury, now Newburyport, May 28, 1738. He graduated from Harvard College, in 1755, in the class with John Adams. He read law in Salem, but on the completion of his studies returned to Newbury, and joined his father in business. He married, Oct. 24, 1758, Ruth *IMan- Dalton \va5 bom Dec. 2, 1734, and died Nov. 18, 1736. t Michael Dalton was bora Nov. i, 1736, and died Oct. 3, 1841. TRISTRAM DALTON. THE D ALTON HOUSE 479 Hooper, daughter of Robert Hooper, a rich merchant of Marblehead. On the death of his father he inherited a large estate, amply sufficient to satisfy his wants and expectations. In a sketch of Tristram Dalton, read by the late Hon. Eben F. Stone Feb. 20, 1888, before the members of the Essex Institute at Salem, Mass., the personal appearance of the man who ultimately represented Massachusetts in the United States senate is described as follows : — There is a portrait of him in the possession of his great-grand- daughter, taken when he was eighteen years of age, just after he graduated, which is supposed to have been painted by Blackburn. It appears from this that he was tall and well-formed, with a fine, clear complexion and a smooth, open brow. He had full, dark eyes, rather a long nose, and a firm, well-set mouth and chin. The general expression of his face is open and intelligent. His dress, after the fashion of the time, short clothes and knee-breeches ; coat with standing collar and deep, broad lapels faced with silk ; white satin waistcoat, cut deep and long; ruffled shirt bosom and deep lace cuffs; his hair tied in a queue and puffed on each side : all this gives such an appearance of age and dignity to the figure that it is difficult to believe it is the portrait of one so young. In the latter part of his life his figure was very strik- ing and imposing. It has been said by one who saw him about 181 6, in Newburyport, that he was then perfectly erect and firm, with a florid complexion, white hair, and a fine presence. He was fond of music, and, when young, played on the flute. He was a fine specimen of the gentleman of the old school. Naturally refined, fond of literature, easy, affable, and dignified in his manner, he was well fitted to take a leading part in the best of New England society, as it was constituted in the colonial era. From the time his father died until he was elected to the Senate in 1788 he maintained at his mansion on State Street, in New- buryport, and at his country seat at Pipe Stave Hill, a most generous hospitality. A copy of the portrait referred to above, painted by Thomas B. Lawson, of Lowell, Mass., now hangs in the rooms of the Historical Society of Old Newbury ; and from that copy the half-tone print that accompanies this sketch, is taken. Tristram Dalton was actively interested in public affairs previous to the Revolution, and his name frequently appears 480 OULD XF.WBCRY in the records of the town. He served on important com- mittees, and gave considerable time and attention to the revision of the pubHc school system of Newburyport. In 1774, he was one of the delegates to the Provincial congress, and in 1776 he was elected representative to the General Court. During the war he was an ardent and patriotic supporter of the continental government, and heartily in sympathy with the men who were struggling to secure American indepen- dence. From 1782 to 1785 inclusive, he was an active and influential member of the State legislature, and in 1783 he was chosen speaker of the house. In 1784, though again chosen to that office, he declined to serve. In 1786, 1787, and 1788 he was a member of the State senate, and also a delegate from Newburyport to the constitutional convention of 1788. He was active and energetic in his efforts to reconcile political differences, and zealously advocated the adoption of the constitution of the United States. After a long and protracted contest the advocates of the new constitution were successful, and Tristram Ualton and Caleb Strong were elected senators to the first congress from Massachusetts. The long term fell, by lot, to Caleb Strong. After the expiration of two years Tristram Dalton was a candidate for re-election ; but, owing to the strong ):)arty feeling prevailing at that time and the lack of una- nimity among his own friends and supporters, he was de- feated, and soon after retired from the public service. The result of this election was evidently a serious dis- appointment to him ; but his letters, written at this time, do not show any signs of anger or ill-nature, although malicious and unfounded reports, derogator)' to his character, had been circulated by his enemies during the campaign. He retained his residence in New York until congress removed to Philadelphia, when he engaged a house in that city, and made a home for himself and family there. When Washington, D. C, was selected as tlie permanent seat oi government, he decided to sell his real estate in Ivsse.x county. Mass., and invest the i)r<>ceeds in Washington city lands. THE D ALTON HOUSE In 1790, ^^^' ^*^^^*-^ ^^' Joseph Stanwood, of Ncwburyport, his great farm at Pipe Stave Hill for ^3,700, and at the same time he conveyed to Moses Brown his mansion house, stables, and land under and adjoining the same on State Street, and HALL AND STAIRCASE, DALTON HOUSE. to William Welsted Prout and Samuel Gyles Parsons all his interest in the old Tristram Little place, on the southeasterly side of Market Square, which he had inherited from his mother. His household goods were carefully packed and shipped by a sailino- vessel bound to Georgetown, D. C. The vessel was 482 OULD NEWBURY wrecked on the way ; and he h)st a large part of his furniture, books, and pictures. " The anticijxated rise in value of real estate at Washington did not take place. His agent was dishonest. The speculation proved a failure ; and Dalton, with nearly all the others engaged in the enterprise, lost his property, and was reduced to such a condition that he was forced to accept a situation in the Boston custom-house for his support. He removed to Boston in 18 15, and died very suddenly, two years after, on the 30th of May, 1817." During his residence in Newburyport he was an active and devoted member of St. Paul's Church, and contributed gen- erously to its support. In 1 760 and i 761, he served as warden of the parish, and from 1765 to 1788 (when he removed to New York) he was annually elected one of the vestrymen. His grave is on the southeasterly side of the church, where his wife, Ruth (Hooper) Dalton, and five of his children are buried. Only three of his daughters lived to mature age. Mary, the eldest daughter, married Hon. Leonard White, of Haverhill, Mass., at one time a member of Congress. Ruth married, July 21, 1789, Lewis Deblois, a merchant of Boston. Catherine was never married. Hon. Eben F. Stone, in the paper read before the Essex histitute at Salem, Mass., from which many important facts and incidents have been drawn for publication in this sketch, gives some interesting extracts from the letters of Tristram Dalton relating to the men and measures prominent at the first session of congress after the adoption of the constitu- tion, and closes with the following careful and discriminating analysis of his life and character : — Physically, he was well-built, large, and robust, with a fine, erect figure, an open, benevolent, and handsome face, and that natural air of superiority which implies a fine organization. His mental powers, tliough good, were not remarkable. Sensible, intelligent, and refined, there was nothing in the force or capacity of his mind to distinguish him from tliose of tlie class who liad enjoyed, like him. the advantages of culture and of the l)est society. His moral nature was of the highest order. Kind, generous, temperate, ujjright. truliiful. and unselfisli in the social and domestic rehitions. he was a model man. a dutiful son. THE D ALTON HOUSE 483 a kind father, a good citizen, and an ardent patriot. A man of emo- tions rather than of ideas, the warmth and depth and sincerity of his feehngs lifted him above all personal considerations, and gave to him that elevation and nobility of character which appeal so strongly to our regard and affection. Take him for all in all, he was a fine specimen of an accomplished Christian gentleman of the old school, of the class which was the best product of the colonial period, and which perished under the influence of the democratic ideas introduced by the Revolu- tion. NATHANIEL KNAPP. Surmounting", and firmly secured to a stone post, on the corner of Middle and Independent Streets in Newburyport, is a large cast-iron bomb-shell, thrown from a mortar at the second siege of Louisburg, and brought to Newbury, Mass., by Nathaniel Knapp, who served as a soldier as well as carpenter and ship-calker with the land and naval forces assembled for the capture of the city in 1758. Nathaniel Knapp was a grandson of Isaac and Ann (Eaton) Knapp, of Salem. His father, Nathaniel Knapp, Sr., was born in Salem May 4, 171 3. He came to Newbury when a young man, and married Sarah Hart, daughter of Charles and Rebecca (Kent) Hart in 1734. He was, like his son and namesake, a calker by trade, and is so styled in the deeds of conveyance executed by him during the next ten or fifteen years. He purchased, Dec. 15, 1736, of John Webster, Jr., a lot of land, with a dwelling-house thereon, on the northwesterly corner of Middle and Independent Streets, at that time desig- nated as "a lane of two rods wide" and "as a way of one and a half rods wide" respectively (Essex Deeds, book y^, page 224). Three years later he bought two lots of land, with two dwelling-houses on the same, on the southeasterly corner of the same streets or public ways, " in the Third Parish in Newbur)' " (h>ssex Deeds, book y'S, page 93, and book 81, page 45). To one of these houses he removed with his famil)'. His children at this time were Hannah, born in 1735, died in 1736, and Nathaniel, born March 30, 1736. Nine other children were subsec|ucntly born to Nathaniel Knapp and Sai'ali, Ills wife. Sarah Knapp died in 1754; and he mar- NATHANIEL KNAPP 485 ried, Sept. 18, 1754, widow l<:iizabeth (Gerrish) Moody, by whom he had one daughter, born Dec. 3, 1757, died Oct. 5, 1758. Nathaniel Knapp, Jr., married, Jan. 14, I757. Mary Mirick, of Newbury, and the next year joined the armed forces assembled at Halifax under General Amherst for the capture of Louisburg. His diary, recently published by the Society of Colonial Wars, gives some very interesting facts and incidents connected with the campaign. A few brief extracts, relating more especially to his own personal move- ments, will be of interest to the readers of this sketch : — Monday, March ye 27, 1758, Set out for Portsmouth, Newhampshire, from Newbury by water on board Will Gerrish Scooner & got in at one a clock afternoon. Lodged at Mr. hoiets. 175S, Monday, April 3 day. Sailed from portsmouth 2 th Clock in ye Snow Halifax. Capt Wells Comander. with ve wind at N.W. teusday 4 day we met with a .Snow from Lisband bound to Marblehead. Capt. John Lee Comander. he gave an accompt that ye King of Prussia had a fight & took 50000 Prisoners. 1758, Saturday, April 8"^ made Lehave. the wind at N. N. W.. about 8 o clock Saw a Ship 4 Leagues to Leward at 12 Clock. She came up with us. & proved to be the province Ship, Capt. hollaway comandar. thev veard a boav a Stern to take our Cable on board them for to tow us in to hallifax, & she toed us Between 7 & 8 nots, & yt is 2 or 3 more than Ever She went before thick of Snow & Squally. 1758, Tuesdav, April 11. we hove up this Morning. & Came up to Dartmouth and Came to an anchor about noon, in ye afternoon we went a Shore & Vieued the place & houses. 1758, Sunday, May 28, Sot sail at loth Clock & went out with ye whole fleet, wind X.W. I was very sea Sick. 1758, friday ye 2 June fell in with some o the fleet, thick & foggy, we Espied under ye land a brig. & ye bumb Catch Gave Chase & Drove her ashore. She was a french brig. 1758. Wednesday, June 7. Clear weather. Spoke with a frigat & She said ye fleet had got in & we was 15 Leags Distance, & Dam'd us & then he Left us. 1738 Saterdav, June 10, made ye land & took it to be to leward of Cape briton, then we spied Some Ships, 2 men of war & three or four Scooners & Sloops, & they bore away, & we followed them, c^ went ni 486 OULD NEWBURY to ("labiroose. the wind blew verry hard, tliey told us ye Soldiers was landed a thirsdav, but we did not know ye Particulars till we Landed. 175S. .Sunday. June 11 is fair weather. I left 6 dollars with paul Gerrishes «S; he 8 with Capt. wells, we all went ashore in ye forenoon, when the army Landed, the Boats Got within 3 or 4 Rods of the Shore before they Saw any & then they Rise up & fir'd a \'ally on them with Cannon & Small arms, ye Cannon Loden with Small Shot, the Regulars & Hilanders landed in ye front & the Rangers Landed on the left up ye Bay. & they Kild & wounded a bout a hundred, there was 2 or 3 boats Sunk by the mens being so eager & filling ye Boats so full, ye Rangers Started them first, they Ran & hoUow'd & fir'd on behind them & they left their Brest work: they had 10 or 12 cannon i : 24 pounder which was one of the tilburys Guns, their Brest work was from one End to the other was 4 mile, they had 2 Morters fix'd & did heare Some Shell X : in ye afternoon we built some Camps to Lye in, & then we went almost over to ye City & Saw Some Men without, they had burnt all ye out houses, then the Soldiers took 5 horses & brout them in. I 758, Wednesday, July 26. Last night there was a number of men of war men got boats and went and boarded the 2 Ships that Lye in ye harbour, one Ship they toed up ye harbour, & ye other .Ship which was ye Commodores Ketcht a ground, so that they Could not get her of, & they Ketcht her on fire & she burnt down, in ye forenoon there was a flag of truce Came out & Sot with our officers, & About Eight at night they agreed to our terms, & at nine a clock our people went in & took possession of ye town. 1758, thirsday. July 27, this morning there was three Companys of Granideers Draw"d up & went Close to ye town, & about Eleven of ye Clock they marchtd in, ye first Comp that went in is ye Royal Scots, ye 2 is hopsons, ye 3 was General Amihust, at twelve a Clock ye English Coulers were hoisted, the Wagons Came down to Carry away ye bag- gage, and all ye afternoon they were a hauling away Guns & other Stuff, the Centrys were Sot all around ye City that there Should Nothing be Caried out but what was Caried into the Kings Store. 1758, Sunday, July 30, Went to work at ye City a getting down ye west Gate & a building a bridge at ye west gate, yesterday I put a gun on board of one Mchard Sloop, to carry home. & I went round in ye City to View it, & there was hardly a house but what had a shot. 1758, tuesday, August ye i, (leneral Wolf went in to ye City, & he was Saluted with about 20 Canon : no work to do to Day, walk about ye City. Nothing more New to day. 1758, friday, ye 10 Noyember, this Day it being ye Kings births we Did l)ut Little wi)rk. It is very cold. Ye four Regiments were all nuis- NATHANIEL ANA PF 487 tred with new Regimentals on, & at one of ye Clock they iirYl three Volleys. All the garrison Guns were fir'd, & all ye Shiping in ye har- bour fir'd the Ships : they fir'd first, then ye Garrison, & then ye Soldiers. Ye Generals Regm was at ye great perade, warbeton was at ye perade in ye old Barracks, & hopsons near ye East gate & Brags at ye west gate. 175S. Monday ye 25 December, this day it being Crismas Day the Governor gave our Compe ye Day for to Divert our Selves. Ye fore- noon I went a guning : it is a fine Pleasant Day. Had a good Diner of Roast Beef. Capt write saiTd. 1759. Sunday. June ye 17th, this Day fair Weather. There is near thirty Sail of Ships and Small Craft Sail'd for the River Snt Larance. one frigate Capt. Beachem Saikd for Newbury, I put an Iron on board by David Coats. We went to the Govenor to Day for our Discharge, but we Could not Get a Direct Answer. He wanted us to tarry until we had Relief Sent us from Boston. Capt. Devenport SaiFd for Canada to day. 1759, thirsday, ye 5 July, this Day fair. Received 15 Dollars of Sec- retary. Sot Sail 32 Carpenters with a fair wind. Got out of ye harbour Between 3 & 4 clock. Capt homer of Boston Comander. 1759. Thirsday. ye 12 of July, this morning at Day Breaking we ware close in to Cape ann and very Calm : we ware close in upon A Ledge, but we out Boat and toed her of. The wind Breaz'd up, and we got into Boston at 4 clock, went Ashore and walk't all Round ye town. Log'd at Coz Isaac Ridgways & Sup'd there. 1759, Fryday, ye 13 July, this morning fine weather. Went on Board the Sloop & got my things all & put them on Board of Capt. Stocker to bring to Newbury: at 10 Clock Sot out for home. Din'd at Norards. Got as far as Salem. Log'd at Uncle John Knaps. 1759, Saterday, ye 14 July, this Morning by Daylite Some men from Newbury Cal'd us up, & we Sat out for home, & got home at one Clock. Had Roast Lamb for Diner; thunder shower afternoon, & here is ye End of ye Louisberg Champain. Same Day ye Lightning Struck Capt Gwyn house. It will be noted that, on two occasions at least, the writer of the diary mentions the fact that he has sent home souvenirs from the captured city. Sunday, the thirtieth day of July, 1758, he writes, "Yesterday I put a gun on board of one Mc'hard sloop to carry home." And again, Sunday, June 17, 1759, he says: "one frigate, Capt. Beachem, Sail'd 488 OULD XFAVIUJRY for Ncwhui")". 1 }nit an Iron on board b)' David Coats." This last entry may ])ossibly refer to the shijiment, under the care of David Coats, of the iron shell that now surmounts the stone ])ost at the corner of the streets previously named. June 24, 1760, about one year after his return from Louis- burg, he purchased of his father, Nathaniel Knapp, Sr., one of the houses owned by him, and described in the deed of conveyance, as follows : " The dwelling house and land in New Lane, bounded southerly three rods on New Lane, easterly five rods on land of Stephen Moody, northerly three rods on land of Ambrose Davis, and westerly five rods on land of Nathaniel Knapp and Ambrose Colby " (book iio, page 107). In this house, Nathaniel Knapp, Jr., lived for many years ; and most, if not all, of his large family of children were born there. The adjoining house, occupied by his father, was taken down after the death (Feb. 12, 1776) of Nathaniel Knapp, Sr. ; and the vacant space between Independent Street, as it was then called, and the residence of Nathaniel Knapp, Jr., was utilized as a garden plot. The children of Nathaniel Knapp, Jr., and Alary (Mirick) Knapp were as follows : — Jacob, born Nov. 22, 1757; lost with the privateer "Yankee Hero." Sarah, born April 3, 1760: died March 14. i N3 i . Mary, born July 24, 1762; died Nov. 22, 1765. Nathaniel, born Aug. 30, 1764; died Feb. 25, 1S33. Mary, born June 9, 1767. I.saac, born May 23, 1769; died Dec. 2, 1770. Elizabeth, born Aug. 25, 1771 : died Feb, 12, 1S31. Isaac, born Jan. 25, 1774; died Dec. 22, 1S49. Anthony, born April 12, 1776; died May 2, 1776. Anthony, l^orn March 4, 177S: man-icd Dollv Merrill. Mary (Mirick) Knap]) died May 29, 1779; and Nathaniel Knapp, Jr., married Judith Rolfe Nov. 26, 17S0. She died June 28, 1790; and Mr. Knapp married, for his third wife, Patty Lurvey Feb. 16, 1794-5. He died July 6, 18 16, and was biuied on the southerl)' side of the Old Hill burying groimd, near I'ond .Street. His widow tlicd Jmie 19, 1847. NATHANIEL KNAPP 489 At the bejj;innin;;" of the Revolutionary War, Captain Moses Nowell, of Ne\vbur)i)ort, organized a miHtary company, and started at eleven t)'clock at night, immediately after the battle of Lexington, to join the Continental forces in the assertion of their rights and in the defence of their lives and fortunes. Benjamin Perkins was lieutenant of the company ; Paul Lunt, sergeant ; Caleb Haskell, drummer. The number of men in the ranks was one hundred and fifteen ; and amon \\l'"^'ii ("'t-'iieral Wolfe was killed, and was present at the surrender of Quebec a few da)s later. At the expira- tion of his term of service he returned home, and filed with the proper authorities in Boston a pa}-roll ft)r wages due the men under his command, to which he made oath Jan. 31, 1760. .Vmonj;" the items included in a separate bill, rendered at the same time for expenses incurred by him during the campaign, is a charge of ^,2 4\. for " transporting m\- baggage from Newbury to Boston," and 12^'. for "transport- ing self, men, & baggage to Nantasket." In the spring of 1760, the French forces in Canada were e\identl\' making preparations to recapture Quebec, and New England was again called upon to furnish men to resist the attack. In March, Captain DavenjDort enlisted eighteen men " for the total reduction of Canada," and in April four more for the same service. The names of the enlisted men on the first list are as follows : — Jolm Carr. l)orn in Xewl^urv. resident of Xewbury. age 21, .son of John Carr. Jeremiah Morse, born in Newhurv. resident of Newbury, age 17. ser- vant to Nathaniel Bartlett. William Hills, born in Newburv. resident of Newbury, age 17. servant to Joshua Baley. Samuel Huse. born in Newburv. resident of .\ewlnnv. age 17. grandson to Charles Chase. John Davis, born in Andover. resident of Newbury, age ly. son to Mark Davis. Isaac Mason, born in New Market, resident of Newbury, age 26. John Owens, born in Wales, resident of Newbury, age 30. James Martain. born in Newbury, resident of Newbury, age iS. servant to Daniel Chute. Simeon Ceorge, l)orn in Newl)ur\'. resident of Xewburw age 17. servant to Abraham C.allisham. Daniel Lowell, born in .\]msl)urv. resident of .Newbury, age iS. Stephen Coleby. born in .\lmsbury. resident oi Newburv. age 19. servant to Moses Todd. Mnoch Chase, born in Newbur\-. resident of .Newl)niv. age 17. servant to Stephen luigland. Henry Dow. born in Salisbury, resident of .Newl)urv. age ly. servant to Nathan Allen. WOLFE TAVERN 497 Robert Matthews, born in Canso. resident of Ne\vl)ury. age iS. servant to Mark Haskell. Cape Ann. John Leatherland. born in Ipswich, resident of Ipswich, age 17, son to Sarah Leatherland. Leonard Harrison, born in Rowley, resident of Newbury, age 21. Isaac Stickney. born in Rowley, resident of Newbury, age 19. son to Samuel Stickney. David Haskell, born in Cape Ann. resident of Newbury, age 19, servant to Caleb Ha.skell. The above-named persons appeared before Joseph (lerrish, Jr., commissary of masters and justice of the peace, March 14, 1760, and were duly accepted as able-bodied men. The second list contains the following names : — Isaac Baley, born in Newbury, resident of Newbury, age 17, servant to Daniel Clarke. Richard Tucker, born in Newbury, resident of Newbury, age iS, servant to Dimond Currier. Moses Pike, born in Newbury, resident of Newbury, age 17. son to Thomas Pike. Stephen Danford, born in Bradford, resident of Bradford, age 21. Isaac Baley appeared before Joseph Gerrish, Jr., Richard Tucker and Moses Pike before Joseph Cofifin, and Stephen Danford before John Osgood, and were duly accepted for his Majesty's service (Massachusetts Archives, Muster Rolls, volume 97, pages 416 and 417). There is no evidence that Captain Davenport again entered the service for a second campaign, although he was actively interested in procuring recruits for the re-enforcement of the English ami)'. The tradition that he gave his wife a guinea when he left Newbury in 1759 to join the troops assembled for the first attack upon Quebec, which she, by prudence and economy, was able to return to him unused when he reached home again, may be literally true ; but at the same time it must be remembered that, if he had only a guinea in ready money at his command, he was the owner of considerable valuable property, the income of which was probably at the disposal of his wife. 498 OULD A'KWBCKY In 1762. til meet the clcniands of the travelHng' i)uhHe, he conxerted his d\velliiii;-h()use on the corner of Thread- needle alley and l-'ish Street (now State Street) into a tavern, and \\\\\v^ from a loft\- ])ole a swinging sign, embel- lished with a t|uaint portrait of (ieneral Wolfe. In the days of William Daxcnport the ta\-ern was a popu- lar place of resort. Under its roof the hungry and thirsty found comfort, shelter, good suppers, and good wine. Satur- day evening, from all parts of the town, men came to the tavern to hear the news and to discuss politics, theology, and the state of the crops. During the winter months farmers from the surrounding country brought pork, butter, grain, eggs, and ])oultry to market, and gathered in the capacious bar-room at night, around the cheerful, blazing' fire, to while away the time with mugs of flip and mulled cider. The land traxel from Maine and the eastern part of New Hampshire passed through Newbury on the way to Boston; and Wolfe Tavern, or Davenport's Inn, as it was often called, soon became a famous resort. The arrival and departure of the stage-coach brought reli- able information from distant places, while items of local interest were gathered from well-known and prominent men about town. Alice Morse Earle, in " New England Customs and Fashions," says: — It must l)e remembered that our universal modern source of in formation, the newspaper, did not then exist. There were a few journals, of course, of scant circulation ; but of what we now deem news they contained nothing. Information of current events came through hear- ing and talking, not through reading. Hence it came to be that an inn- keeper was not only influential in local affairs, but was universally known as the best-informed man in the place. Reporters, so to speak, rendered their accounts to him : items of foreign and local news were sent to liim : he was in himself an entire Associated I'ress. At the taxcrn, hot rum jnmch and egg todd)' were inter- mi.xed with gossi]:) of the da}' and vigorous political discus- sions. The modci-n doctrine of total abstinence from the use oi intoxicating lic|uors had few acKocates a centin'\' ago. In those <'"oo(j old times wine and strouL;' drink were trenerallv WOLFE TAJ'ERN 499 jDrovided at funerals for mourning relatives as well as for joyous guests at the marriage feast ; and the courage and patriotism of those who stoutly resisted the encroachments of King George III. were evidently stimulated and encour- aged by frequent libations of punch and toddy. A curious old bill, now in the possession of Mr. George Davenport, of Boston, a lineal descendant of William Davenport, well illustrates the customs and habits that prevailed just previous to the Revolution, and, indirectly, re- veals the means and methods adopted to arouse enthusiasm and create a public sentiment that would lead to the repeal of the odious Stamp Act. The items of the bill are as follows : — Dr. Messrs. Joseph .Stanwood & others Of the Town of Newburyport, for .Sundry Expences at My House on Thirsday Sept'" 26tli A.D. 1765, at tlie CJreate Uneasmess and Tumult on Occa- sion of the Stamp Act. To William Davenport. Old Tenor Per Contrcx Cr By an order from To 3 Double Bowles punch by Capt Kobuds ( )rder ^3., 7, ,6 Capt Robuds for ^3,, 7,, 6 To 7 Double Bowles of punch 7., 7, ,6 To Double Bowl of Egg Toddy 14 To Double punch 22/6 Single bowl 1 1/3 .... i,,i3,,g Xo Double Bowl punch 22/6 Double bowl toddy 12/ i,, i4.,6 To bowl punch 11/3 Bowl toddy 6/ 17, ,3 To Double bowl Toddy 12/ bowl punch 11/3 . . i,, 3„3 To Double Bole punch 22/6 Nip Toddy 3/ . . i„ 5, ,6 To mug flip 5/ To a Thrible bowl punch 33/9 . . i,,i8,,q To Double bowl punch 22/6 To a Thrible bowl Ditto 33/9 2,, 16, ,3 By Cash by Richard To a Double bowl punch 22/6 i,, 2, ,6 Favour .... .£2,, 5,, o To a Double bowl punch 22/6 i,, 2, ,6 By Cash by Coleby i,, 2,, 6 To a Thrible Bowl punch 33/9 Double Bowl 2,, 16,, 3 By Cash by Coleby i,, 2,, 6 Ditto 22/6 To a Double Bowl pimch 22/6 Bowl Ditto 11/3 . i,,i3,,9 To a Double Bowl punch 22/6 to Double bowl Ditto 22/6 2„ 5 To 6 Lemons 15/ to bowl of puncli 1 1/3 .... i,, 6,, 3 By Cash by Coleby ^1,, 6,, o To 2 Double Bowles punch 2,, 5,, By Cash by Coleby 2,, 5,, o To Double Bowl punch 22/6 bowl punch 11/3 . i,,i3,,q To 2 Double bowles punch 45/ to bowl punch 11/3 2,, 16,, 3 To Bowl punch 11/3 To bowl punch 11/3 ... i,, 2, ,6 By Cash by Coleby o,,ii,, 3 To the Suppers which were Cooked Hot .... 2,, 5 ^ii,,i9,,g To S Double Bowles punch after Supper . ... 9,, Lawful money . . ^i„ii,,ii5 To Double Bowl Toddy 12/ Bowl punch 11/3 . . i,, 3. ,3 the 27tli To Bowl of Egg Toddy 7/ 7,, To 6 pintes and 1/2 of Spirits « 10/ pr Point . 3,, 5,, To a Breakfast of Coffee for ,Sd Company ... 2,, 5,, Lawful money . . . i^7,.i9,,7„5- Nfwburyi'ort, 28 Sept. 1765. Erors excepted p. Wii.lia.m Davenport. 500 Oi'LJ^ XKIVBURY Coffin, in his Histor}' ot Xcwbur)', page 231, says: — In Newburyport the effigy of a Mr. I — H — . who had accepted the office of stamp distributor, was suspended .September 25th and 26th from a large ehn-tree which stood in Mr. Jonathan Greenleaf's yard, at the foot of King .Street (now Federal Street) a collection of tar barrels set on fire, the rope cut. and the image dropped into the flames. At ten o'clock I'..m. all the bells in town were rung. '• I am sorry to see that substitute." said a distinguished citizen of Newburyport : •• I wish it had been the original." Companies of men. armed with clubs, were accustomed to parade the streets of Newbury and Newburyport at night, and to eyery man they met put the laconic question. •■ Stamp or no stamp." The consequences of an affirmatiye reply were anything but pleasant. In one instance, a stranger, haying arrived in town, was seized by the mob at the foot of (jreen Street, and. not knowing what answer to make to the question, stood mute. As the mob allow no neutrals, and as silence with them is a crime, he was severely beaten. The same question was put to another stranger, who replied with a sagacity worthy of a vicar of Bray or a Talleyrand. •• I am as you are." He was immediately cheered and applauded as a true son of liberty, and permitted to depart in peace, wondering, no doul)t. at his own sudden popularity. Sept. 30, 1765, the town of Xe\vbiuTi'>ort xoted that " the late act of parliament is very grievous, and that this town as much as in them lies endeavour the repeal of the same in all lawful wa)s, and that it is the desire of the town that no man in it will accept of the ofifice of distributing the stampt papers, as he regards the pleasure of the town, and that they will deem the person accepting of such office an enemy to his coimtry." It is |)()ssible that the timuilt and commotion of those memorable da)'s, and even the inspiration of the resolve adopted b)- the patriotic citizens of Newburyport, may be traced to the influence of the pimch jirepared by Landlord ])a\en])()rt for Joseph Stanwood and other worth)' guests on the evening of Sept. 25, 1765. In the early days of Masonr)', St. l^eter's Lodge of 1^'ree and Accepted Masons often met at Mr. Davenport's inn, and the Newburyport Marine Societ)- foi- man}- years held its i-egular monthh' meetings thei-e. WOLFE TA VERX 501 William Daxenport died Sept. 2, 1773, and was buried on the crest of the Old Hill burying ground, near the Hill Street entrance. His children were as follows : — Mary, baptized March i. 1741. Grace, born Sept. 12. 1743: baptized Sept. i S, 1743. Mary, born June i. 1746: baptized June i, 1746. Moses, born Feb. 20, 1747-8: baptized Fel). 2.S. 1747-8. Elizabeth, baptized March 4, 1750. Anthony, baptized March 22. 1752. Sarah, baptized May 19. 1754. Moses, baptized July 24. 1757. In the inventory of his estate, taken Oct. 3, 1773, the fol- lowing interesting items appear, with the appraised values annexed : — one neo;ro woman .... £-. 0. one ditto child 7 0. 160 gals. West India Rum . 21 6. 8 18 gals. Wine 4 t6. 20 gals. Cherry Rum . 2 0. 8 gals. Spirits 1 I- 4 9 bbls. Cider 4 14. I gun 12. William Davenport was also the ownier of considerable real estate within the limits of Newbury and Newburyport. One lot, several acres in extent, just beyond the New Hill burying ground, is still known by the name of Davenport's hill. Feb. I3> ^77 '^^ William Davenport purchased this land of the estate of Oliver Clark. The deed of conveyance is recorded in the Essex Registry of Deeds, book 128, page 209. The land afterward came into the possession of Anthony Daven- port, his son, by inheritance and by purchase from other heirs (book 139, page 167). Letters of administration were granted Anthony Daven- port in October, 1773, for the settlement of his father's estate. He was then only about twenty-one years of age, but seems to have conducted the business of the old tavern successfully until his brother Moses was old enough to serve WOLFE TAVERN l^l in his place, and was licensed as an innholder by the court at Ipswich. Under the management of Moses Davenport the business continued to jM-osper and the number of patrons increased. In 1782, Marquis de Chastellux, who served in the Revolu- tionary army under Rochambeau, made Davenport's Inn his headquarters during his stay in Newburyport, and briefly mentions the fact in the published account of his travels through Xew England. An old almanac, printed in 1788 by Nathaniel Low, gives the names of the most noted innholders on the road from Boston to Portsmouth. In the list is " Putnam of New- bury " and "Davenport of Newburyport." The first-named undoubtedly refers to Oliver Putnam, who kept a tavern in what is now known as the Ilsley house, on High Street, near the head of Marlborough Street. A skilful artist, by the name of Aiken, residing in New- buryport, made about this time an admirable engraving of the old Wolfe Tavern, which has been reproduced by the half-tone process for the illustration of this sketch. The artist himself subsequently acquired considerable notoriety by the retaliatory measures he adopted to mortify and humiliate a fellow-townsman (Edmund M. Blunt, the publisher of Bowditch's Navigator and Coast Charts), with whom he had quarrelled. In 1804, Thomas Perkins, after some years of service with Moses Davenport, was licensed as an innholder, and assumed control of Wolfe Tavern on his own account. He was born in Topsfield May 28, 1773, and married Elizabeth Storey, of Essex, P^eb. 16, 1804. His son, Henry C. Perkins, after- ward an eminent physician of Newburyport, was born in one of the upper chambers of the tavern Nov. 13, 1804. The columns of the Newburyport Herald contain some ad- vertisements that seem to indicate that Mr. Perkins did not occupy the position of landlord for more than three years. Under the date of June 8, 1804, the following announcement appears : — 504 OULD NEWBURY The mail sta<(e from I'ortsmoutli will leave Perkins" Tavern (formerly Davenport's^, xXewburyport. at half past 12 o'clock I'.M. every day (Sundays excepted). Benjamin Hale. The paper for March 31, 1807. has this notice: — The Proprietors of the southeast division of the Fourth (General Past- ure in Newburv and Xewburvport are hereby notified and warned to meet at the house of Mr. Thomas Perkins, innholder. in Xewburyport. on the 14"' dav of April next. May 15, 1807, "Emperor Francis," a tonsorial artist of some celebrity, announced that he had opened rooms on State Street, Newburyport, " one door above the celebrated General Wolfe Tavern, now kept by Mr. Stetson." It is evident from the above citations that between the thirty-first day of March and the fifteenth day of May, 1807, Mr. Prince Stetson took possession of the house, and was duly established therein as landlord. He continued to serve the public in that capacity until the great fire of 181 1. His son, Charles Stetson, was afterward connected with the Astor House in New York City, and was exceedingly popular with the patrons of that famous hostelry. In the list of buildings burned in Newburyport May 31, 181 I (published in the columns of the Xci^'buiyport Herald), will be found " the dwelling house and barn of Prince Stet- son." Two weeks later (June 14, 181 1) "Prince Stetson informs his friends and the public that he shall open his Tavern on Monda)- next in the House of Col. Hartlet, State St., where he solicits their faxors." Colonel Steplien Hartlett's house was on the lower, or easterly, corner of Temple and State Streets ; and the brick addition on Temple Street was built about this time to accommodate the patrons of Wolfe Tavern. On the corner of .State and Harris Streets was a spacious brick house owned and occu])ied by Colonel John Peaboih'. uncle of tlie eminent banker, (ieorge Peabodw of London. Colonel Peabod)' had built tliis liouse at great exi)ense, and resided there until, owing to losses by the great fire and WOLFE TAVERN 505 the g-eneral stagnation of business, he decided to remove to Georgetown, D. C. Jan. 20, 181 2, he gave a quitclaim deed of " the land with the buildings thereon " to Ebenezer Wheelwright and Thomas M. Clark (Essex Deeds, book 195, page 168). Jan. i, 18 14, Ebenezer Wheelwright and Thomas M. Clark sold the pi'operty to Benjamin Hale for $7,500 (book 202, page 290). The alterations and additions rec[uired to render the estate suitable and convenient for the entertainment of travellers were speedily provided for, and the property was then leased to the proprietor of Wolfe Tavern. Since that date, not- withstanding frequent changes in ownership, there has been no change in the location of the tavern. In the Registry of Deeds at Salem the following addi- tional conveyances of this estate are recorded : — July 16, 1828, Benjamin Hale to the Eastern Stage Com- pany (book 251, page 224). Eeb. I, 1838, Eastern Stage Company to Simon P. Drake (book 306, page 229). June 18, 1838, Simon P. Drake to the (3cean Bank (mortgage) (book 306, page 230). Aug. 31, 1840, possession taken and title to Ocean Bank perfected (book 321, page 19). March 22, 1844, Ocean Bank to P^noch Tilton, innkeeper, for $7,000 (book 342, page 264). While the property was in the possession of Mr. Tilton, the building was enlarged on the westerly side by the addi- tion of a dining-room, parlors, etc. ; and the brick dwelling- house adjoining, then owned by Mr. Francis Todd, was pur- chased, and connected with the tavern by a ccn-ered bridge. April 15, 1867, Mr. Tilton sold the tavern, with the land under the same, to Moses S. Little, retaining for his own use the dwelling-house formerly owned by Mr. Todd (book 722, page 87). June I, 1871, Moses S. Little sold the property to Ephraim Tebbetts and George Montgomery, of Gilmanton, N. H. (book 829, page 59). P'eb. 19, 1872, Ephraim Tebbetts sold one-half the prop- erty to Dr. George Montgomery (book 848, page 5). 5o6 OULD NEWBURY Oct. 7, 1S73, I)]-. (ic()r<;c Montgomery sold the ta\ern with land undei' the same to Henr)' S. Shattuck, of Concord, X. II. (book 890, pa^e 223). The will of Henry S. Shattuck, i:)ro\ed in December, 1883, dexised the real estate above described to his wife and chil- di'en. July 30, 1887, Nancy A. Shattuck, widow, George H. Shattuck, James A. Shattuck, and Mary E. Shattuck, single woman, conveyed the propert)' to l^klward V. Shaw (book 1203, page 566). Nov. 16, 1 89 1, Edward V. Shaw sold the land with the buildings thereon to Daniel H. Fowle and William Richard Johnston, the present owners and occu])ants of the tavern (book 1327, page 493). After the great fire in 181 1 Messrs. Anthon}' and Moses Da\enport built the stores now occupied by the Misses Wil- kinson, Sampson Levy, and C. W. Wingate, on the site of the old Wolfe Tavern at the corner of State Street and Threadneedle alley. Aug. 18, 1825, partition deeds to and from Anthony and Moses Davenport were recorded in book 238, pages 263 and 264. These deeds state that the land then occupied by the brick store or stores " was purchased b)- their honored father of Jonathan Dole," which statement is corroborated and confirmed by the conve)'ances to which reference is made at the beginning of this sketch. The quaint old sign that hung on its lofty pedestal in front of the old tavern narrowly escaped destruction during the Revolutionary War. Public opinion denounced and con- demned everything that savored of royalty in those patriotic days. Even the names (Jueen and King Streets were changed to Market and 1^'ederal Streets in obedience to the will and wishes of the ]x'op]e. The llsscx Journal, bold and vigorous in its cominents on public affairs, declared in its editorial columns that the sign bearing the poitrait of (ien- eral Wolle, displa}'ed in the \er}- centre of the place, "is an insult to the inhabitants of this truh' republican town."' l""ortunatel)', howe\er, the \iews so vigorously expressed were not accei)table to the more coiiserxatixe members of the WOLFE TAVERX 507 comnuuiit}- ; and the obnoxious sign was allowed tt> hang in its accustomed place until long after the close of the war. Tradition asserts that the head and bust of General Wolfe, surrounded by an elaborate wreath of scroll work, were carved upon the sign and appropriately painted and gilded. The workmanship was effective ; and the head and bust, cut in profile, were said to bear a close resemblance to the form and features of the distinguished commander of the English forces at Quebec. As Captain William Davenport was by trade a carver, he was full)' competent to do work of this kind, and probably exercised his own skill and taste in the production of this unique sign. In the great fire it w^as par- tiall}-, if not wholl)', destroyed. When Wolfe Tavern was removed to the corner of State and Harris Streets in 18 14, a new sign bearing the portrait of General Wolfe, painted by Moses Cole, an artist of some distinction at that time, was placed in front of the house where it has since remained, with the exception of a brief interxal when it was withdrawn from public view, and the name of the hotel itself was changed to " Merrimac House." In 1887, the old name was restored, and the sign painted b}- Moses Cole was again hung in its accustomed place. Reno\-ated and improved, the ancient tavern still furnishes entertainment for man and beast, and with its interesting history and associations connects the living present with the old colonial days. THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN MEETING-HOUSE. SejDt. 30. 1740. Rev. George W'hitefielcl preached in New- bury for the first time. He addres.sed a large audience assembled in the Third Parish meeting-house, then located near the foot of Fish Street, in what is now known as Market Square. The enthusiasm aroused by this noted jMcacher resulted in the organization of a new religious society, whose first i^lace of worship was on the easterly side of High Street, just below the corner of F'ederal Street. Rev. Matthias Plant, then minister at Oueen ,\nne's Chapel, in a letter to Kev. Dr. Bearcroft, secretary of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in P'oreign Lands, under date of Feb. 15, 1742-3, says : — Since my last of July 23. 1742. There is erected a new meeting house by those People called the new lights, and their Dissenting teacher received 53 into Coninumion in one day of those who were of tliat way of thinking. Mr. Joseph Adams, of Byfield, a graduate of Har\ard College, was employed as a stated preacher in the new meet- ing-house, and the number of worshippers steadily increased. On the thirt)-first da)- of October, 1743, thirty-two male members of the Third Parish asked dismission in order that they might be gathered into a new Congregational church. After a long delay a meeting of the ])arish was held I-"cb. 14. 1744, which resulted in a x'ote to the following effect : — First. That the scijarating hrctlircn luul no riglit to \()tc in the case then pending. .Secondly. That the reasons given by tlie brethren with- drawn from Communion were not sufficient to Justify tlieir separation or for this Cliurch to grant them a dismission. Thirdlv. That a Com- THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN MEETIXC-HOrSE 509 mittee be appointed to prepare, in the name of the Church, an admoni- tion to the brethren of the .separation. Fourthly. That if the .separate brethren shall sliijht the admonition which shall be given them, to return to communion, this Church will in due time proceed to such further censure as is directed in the (lOspel. Meanwhile the disaffected member.s of the I^'irst Parish church, after a long and violent controversy with Rev. Christopher Toppan, relating to their separation from the church, decided to call an ex parte council of the neighboring churches and ask for letters of dismissal. After several in- effectual attempts to carry this plan into execution, a council of eight churches was finally convened July 24, 1744. In the absence of Rev. Christopher Toppan and his friends, who declined to take part in the council, all the evidence presented was in favor of the disaffected members of the parish. As the result of this investigation, the pastor of the church was censured ; and the aggrie\'ed brethren were ad- vised, in case all proper efforts to obtain satisfaction should fail, " to seek more wholesome food for their souls, and put themselves under the care of a shepherd in whom the}' could with more reason confide." Dissatisfied with these proceedings. Rev. Mr. Toppan and his friends called another r.r/^r/Vr council (Aug. 31, 1744), which after due deliberation reversed the decision of the previous council, and advised the brethren who had with- drawn from the church to renew their covenant vows, and accept the ministrations of the faithful pastor who had served them for nearly fift}^ )'ears. July 16, 1745, Rev. John Tucker was invited to assist Rev. Mr. Toppan in the work and ministr)- of the First Parish. He accepted the invitation, and was ordained Nov. 20, 1745. Protesting strongly against the doctrinal views of the new preacher, many members of the parish united, with some of the personal friends of Rev. Jonathan Parsons, in an effort to maintain religious worship in the new meeting- house recently erected on High Street, near the head of P>deral Street. A subscription paper, dated Newbury, Nov. 25, 1745, gives the names of one hundred and two persons interested in this movement. It reads as follows : — 5IO Ori.D XEWBCRY Upon the mature consideration of the many Ditticultys we iuive lony laboured under on Religious accounts, we look upon it. tor many and weitjht\- Reasons, our Duty, & not only so, but that it would be much for our .Spiritual advantage & edification, and for the advancement of the Interest of the Redeemer's Kingdom among us. to unite in a Xew Society for the Settlement of a (jospel Ministry among us: and it hav- ing pleased (iod in his Providence to give us an opportunity of Hearing the Rev. Mr. Jonathan Parsons, whereby we have had some tastes of his Mini.sterial abilities and Qualifications, from which we can't but think, if it should please God to incline him to settle among us in the Ministrv. we have a prospect opened to us of obtaining these blessed Ends, looking upon it allso our Duty to provide an handsome, suitable support for such a Ministry. Upon the Rev. Mr. Parsons Accepting our Invitation, We, the Subscribers, do hereby for ourselves covenant, engage, & agree to pay for the Support of the said Rev'd Mr. Parsons yearly i.^' every year while he continues in the Ministry among us. the several .Sums which we have herein subscribed for. We also covenant and agree to pay towards his .Settlement the several sums which we have subscribed for, as they are set in the following Lists, which are both in the Old Tenor, as witness our hands affixed thereto: — Thomas Pike, Timothy Toitan, MosES Bradstreet, E.vocH Sawyer, Enoch Titcomb, Charles Peirce, Daniel No yes, Richard Toppan, John Brown, William Brown, Nathaniel Atkinson, Joseph Atkin.son, Edward Presburv, Enoch Toppan, Joseph Hidden, Ebenl/.er Little, Jonathan Beck, Benjamin Roc.ers, Spencer Bennett, Benj. Moody, Stei'hen Kent, Parker Noyes, Enoch Titcomh, Jk., Joshua Greenleak, John CiReenleak, TlMiirnV (JREENI.KAI-, Benj. Norton, .Samuel Cresey, Jonathan Greenleak, Nehemiah Wheeler, William Harris, Benj. Pierce, Simon Noyes, Samuel Toitan, Samuel Loni;, Moses Coffin, Jonathan Plumer, John Plu.mer, Jr., Samuel Harris, SiLVANUS Plumer, John Poor, Henry Tit'-omh, John 1!i krn, PiiiLii' Co\ii:i:s, Jacoi; Knichi', Moses I'eikce, Nathaniel Knai', MosKS Tol.D. I'.m;a/i. \K Ke\/i.ai<, John I'lsiii'K, Zl.niAKI All Now KM,, loSKI'H r. \NLE\, .Samuel ILvle, MosEs Noyes, Daniel Gooden, Nathan Peabodv, . John Lowden, Ralph Cross, John Norton, JoH.N Harris, Joshua Comkes, Joshua Greenlkaf. Jr Nathan Brown, Lemuel Jenkins, Niciioi. \s PE'rriNCLK, Danikl Wostek, Joseph Couch, Jr., I )AN1K1. LUN T, Jr., John Hakiu i. Samukl .SiiAt kkokh. .Vlexandkr Morrison, Hl\K\ Sl-.WALL, I'JiMI \Ii MoKSK, DvNIi.I KiCllAKliS, 1)A\III. Wills. S wir Ki, 'I'l Hill. Mosi-.S ( )K|i\\ w, D \N n 1 S \ni;okn. THK FIRST rRKSBYTKRIAX M EET/NG - HOUSE 511 RoHKKr MiTciiEL, JosKi'ii Cheney, Uknj. Pierce, Jr., r>E.\j. Frothi.\(;ham, James Safkord, Joseph Russell, George Goodhue, Cuttl\g Pettingle, Jr., James Mackmillion, Joseph Goodhue, Henry Lunt, Jr., Samuel Peirce, Isaac Johnson, Cutti.ng Pettingle, Benj. Knkjht, Jonathan Knight, Samuel Pettingle, Bez'd Knight, William Noyes, Moses Pettin(;le, Rokerp Cole, Daniel Harris, Richard PIale, John Pike, Jr. A true Copy from the ()riginall. Taken this 16"' of Dec"'' 1745. Attest John Brown. Clerk. On the twentieth day of December, 1745, the dLsaffected members in the First Parish addressed a commtinication to the chmxh, which concluded as follows : — Wherefore, brethren, on these considerations, for the peace of our consciences, our spiritual edification and the honor and interest of relig- ion as we think, we do now withdraw Communion from you, and shall look upon ourselves no longer subjected to your watch and discipline, but shall, agreeable to ye advice given us. speedily as we may, seek us a pastor who is likely to feed us with knowledge and understanding, and in whom we can with more reason confide. And now, brethren, that the God of a full light and truth would lead both you and us into the knowledge of all truth, as it is in Jesus, is and shall be the desire and prayer of your brethren. This communication was signed by Charles Pierce and twenty-two other prominent and influential men who were at that date living within the limits of the Parish. On the third day of January, 1746, nineteen persons, who signed the above communication, affixed their names to the following covenant : — We, the subscribing brethren, who were members of the first church in Newbury, and have thought it our duty to withdraw therefrom, do also look upon it our duty to enter into a church estate, specially as we apprehend this may be for the glory of (iod and the interest of the Redeemer's kingdom as well as for our own mutual edification and comfort. We do. therefore, as we trust in the fear of Cod, mutually covenant and agree to walk together as a church of Christ according to the rules and order of the gospel. In testimony whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals this third dav of January. 1746. 512 OULD XEWIU-RY CiiAKi.i:s l'ii;KtK MosKs Bradstkket Edward I'kkshurv John Ukoux Richard H ai.i. Benjamin Knujiit William Brown Benjamin Pierce Daniel Noves Major Coodwin Thomas I'iki-: Daniel Wells Joseph Hidden Nathaniel Atkinson. Junior Jonathan Pia'mmer Danii:l Coodwin SlL\ANUS Plumer Saml'el Hall CiTTiNG Pettin(;ell. In the month of January, 1 746, they extended an invita- tion to Rev. Jonathan Parsons,* of Lyme, Conn., to become their pastor. Considerable opposition was aroused by those who were unfriendly to the new church, and vigorous efforts were made to prevent the installation of Mr. Parsons. On the 19th of March, however, the members of the society as- sembled in the meeting-house ; and the pastor-elect preached a sermon from the text, " Steadfast in the faith " (i Peter v : 9). At the close of this discourse some letters and testimonials were read, upholding and defending the theological views and opinions of Rev. Mr. Parsons ; and the question of pro- ceeding with his in.stallation without calling a council of the neighboring churches was considered, and decided in the afftrmative by the unanimous vote of those present. I'he pastor-elect, standing with uplifted hand, then said, " In the presence of (iod and these witnesses, I take this people to be my people" ; and the clerk, rising, and speaking for the church and congregation, said, " in the presence of God and these witnesses, we take this man to be our minister." On the 7th of April, 1746, the organization of this inde- pendent Presbyterian church was comjileted by the election of six ruling elders ; and Sept. 15, 1 74S, the members of the society x'oted, unanimously, to unite with the presb}'tery of Boston, reserving to themsehcs the right to choose the elders of their church annually. " Re\ . Jimatlian I'arsdiis was bom at West Springtield, Mass., Nov. 30, 1705. He gradu- ated at Vale College in i7.!v. i>'id was installed as pastor of tlie cliurch in Lyme, Conn., in 1731. In December of that year he married I'hebe Ciriswold, daughter of Mr. John (Iriswold. Oct. 2S, 1715, lie removed from Lyme to Newbury, Mass. THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN MEETING-HOUSE 513 March 28, 1746, thirty-eight members of the Third Parish. who had absented themselves from communion for nearly three years, again asked for letters of dismissal and recom- mendation to the new church. This request was refused ; and a second petition, dated April 6, 1746, haxing met with a similar fate, the dissatisfied brethren determined to act on their own responsibility, without waiting for the approval of a majority of the parish. On the 9th of June following they applied for admission into Rev. Mr. Parsons' church ; and after due deliberation the request was granted Oct. 16, 1746. The society was encouraged and strengthened by this ad- dition to its membership ; but the P'irst Parish, as well as the Third Parish, insisted on the right of taxation, regardless of the fact that individual members contributed to the support of religious worship elsewhere. A long struggle to obtain release from these exactions followed. Oct. 26, 1 748, in a petition to the General Court, Enoch Tit comb and Kbenezer Little state that they were appointed by Charles Peirce, P^lsq., and others of the town of Newbury to present a petition that they may be freed from taxes to the parishes to which they now belong, and incorporated as a distinct parish. The petitioners, in conclusion, say " they are able to support one minister ; but, if held to the taxes, there is danger that they will either be obliged to attend under a minister they cannot in conscience hear or be de- prived of public worship. The}' ask that the taxes be stayed until the matter is decided " (Massachusetts Archives, volume 12, pages 506, 507). Nov. II, 1748, "A petition of the inhabitants of the P'irst and Third parishes of Newbury, who now attend the ministry of Rev. Jonathan Parsons," states that they verbally em- powered Enoch Titcomb and Ebenezer Little to petition the General Court for their being set off from the said parishes, and freed from taxes in them, and pray that any petition presented by Enoch Titcomb and P2benezer Little may be regarded as the act of the subscribers. The petition was signed by Charles Peirce and one hundred and twenty-two others (Massachusetts Archives, volume 12, pages 513, 515). 514 OULD NEWBURY In a jjctition, dated Ne\vbur\-, Nov. 9, 1748, Charles Peirce and one hundred and twenty-five others, inhabitants of the First and Third Parishes, state that they have separated from their respecti\e societies, and have formed a new society, and settled a minister after the manner of the kirk of Scot- land ; that the)' have applied for dismission from their former parishes, and have asked to be freed from taxes there, but have been refused ; that the court has also refused to grant their petition ; that they are entitled to the indulgence granted (Juakers and Anabaptists, and desire to be dismissed from their former parishes, released from taxes, and granted parish powers and authority (Massachusetts Archives, volume I 2, pages 508-5 10). Nov. 10, 1748, Governor Shirley, in a message to the council and house of representatives, says, with reference to the above petitioners, " They aj^pear to be a competent number to support a minister, and their leaving the old parishes will not weaken them much ; and, as I am averse to laying anything grievous upon any people because of their Religious Sentiments, I desire )'ou would once more take it (the petition) into consideration" (Massachusetts Archives, volume 12, page 512). Notwithstanding this favorable recommendation, the peti- tion was dismissed by the General Court. June I, 1749, another petition was addressed to Governor Shirley and the General Court, signed by Charles Peirce and ninety-three others, stating that they had left their former parishes and formed a distinct society, and called and settled an Orthodox, learned and pious minister ; that they had ap- plied for dismission and exemption from taxes in said parishes, and had been refused ; that said parishes continue to tax and imiM'ison them, though well able to sui)i)ort their ministers without the subscribers' help ; that they consider in matters of conscience they should be allowed to judge for themselves as well as the Ouakers, etc. ; and, as the)' have more than a thousand souls who attend their meeting, they ask that their case be considered (Massachusetts Archives, volume 12, ])ages 6S0-682). THE FIRST PRESBYTER IAN MEETEYG - HOUSE 515 A copy of the above petition was sent to the members of the First and Third parishes, with a notice that the General Court would give a hearing on the subject on the eleventh day of August. After listening to the conflicting testimony presented by the friends and opponents of the new society, the petition was dismissed, and the desired legislation was postponed until fifteen years later. In 1763, another effort was made to secure relief from the burden of double taxation. A bill authorizing the proprietors of the Presbyterian meeting-house to levy a tax on the owners of pews was refused a second reading in the General Court. June 14, 1764, however, "An act to impower the proprietors of the meeting house in the town of Newburyport, where the Reverend Mr. Jonathan Parsons ofificiates, to raise money to defray ministerial and other necessary charges," was passed, and approved by the governor. This act was rendered necessary by the incorporation of the town of Newburyport in the month of January, 1764. The meeting-house where Rev. Mr. Parsons officiated was within the limits of the new town. In order to provide for the changed conditions and to prevent, if possible, further controversy and confusion, the proprietors were authorized by this act "to tax the owners of pews in said meeting house, whose polls or estates are taxed nowhere else, for the support of the public worship of God." The act expired by limitation in 1767, but was renewed from time to time until the year 1 780, when the constitution of the State was adopted. Meanwhile strong efforts were made by influential mem- bers of the society to secure additional legislation ; and April 26, 1770, "the inhabitants of the town of Newbuiyport be- longing to the several religious societies within the limits of said town " were authorized and empowered by the General Court to raise money for ministerial and other religious pur- poses, and were released from the payment of " taxes and charges for the support of any minister of any society except for the support of the minister where they usually attend publick worship." These rights and privileges, however, were not extended to the inhabitants of Newbury. 5i6 OULD XEWBCRY May 24. 1770, Ik-njamin l'cttiiii;'cll and many others peti- tioned tlic town of Newbury for liberty to attend jjublic worship in any j^art of Newbury or Newburyport, "where they choose, . . . and pay where they attend and no where else." This request was ij,"ranted b)' the town ; and Nathan Pierce, Joshua Coffin, and Samuel Greenleaf were elected "a committee to ]:)etition the general court to confirm the above vote !)}■ a law of the proxince. " At a legal meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of Newbury held May 23, 1771, the above committee was dismissed from further service. Five days later, however, the vote dismissing the committee was reconsidered ; and Messrs. Pierce, Coffin, and Greenleaf were " instructed to use their utmost influence to get said ^'ote passed into a law at the ne.xt session of the General Court, agreeable to said petition, which was read in the House of Representatives last session, and put over to the ne.xt session for further consideration." At the same meeting a motion to instruct Joseph Gerrish, E.sq., representative from Newbury, to use his influence to secure the passage of an act granting the libert}' asked for, was submitted, and decided in the negative. Apparently, no further action was taken by the town or by the General Court in regard to this matter for twenty-five years. When the constitution of the State of Massachusetts was adopted in 1780, the third article of the declaration of rights provided "that the several towns, parishes, precincts, and other bodies ix)litic or religious societies shall at all times have the e.xclusive right of electing their public teachers and contracting with them foi- their support and maintenance. And all moncN's paid by the subject to the support of ]:)ublic w^orship, and of the public teachers aforesaid, shall, if he require it, be uniformly a]~)]-)lied to the support of the public teacher or teachers of his own religious sect or denomination, ])ro\idc(l there be any on whose instructions he attends. Otherwise it may be paid toward the support of the teacher or teachers of the parish or ])recinct in which said monexs are raised." This provision of the constitution did not relieve the members of the l'"iist I'aiish in Newbur\ fiom taxation, neither did it settle the question be)()nd ilispute. THE FIRST PRESHYTERJAN MEETIXG-HOCSE 517 June 17, 1796, the Cieiieral Court passed "An act author- izing the First Parish in Newbury to discharge from taxa- tion, for the support of PubHc Worship in said Parish, such Persons within the limits of said Parish as attend Public Worship in any other Religious Society, and are willing to be subject to taxation in such society." The preamble to this act reads as follows : — "Whereas a number of persons within the limits of the P'irst Parish in Newbury, usually attending public worship in some of the Religious Societies in Newburyport, were heretofore exempt from taxation in said F^irst Parish, but doubts have lately arisen as to said exemptions, therefore be it enacted," etc., . . . "the said F"irst Parish shall be, and hereby is, authorized to exempt from taxation all those per- sons within the limits of said parish " who produce a certifi- cate from any incorporated religious society stating that they are members of that society, and are willing to be taxed therein. In 1833, the third article of the declaration of rights was amended, and religious societies and parishes were granted the liberties and privileges they now enjoy. When Rev. Jonathan Parsons was invited, in January, 1745-6, to take charge of the society afterward known as the P"irst Presbyterian Society of Newburyport, a meeting- house had been erected on the easterly side of High Street, near the head of Federal Street. P'eb. 27, 1745-6, Mr. Parsons bought of John Adams, son-in-law of Benjamin Morse, a dwelling-house, with land under and adjoining the same, on the westerly side of High Street, near the Blue Anchor Tavern, where he resided for more than twenty years. Ralph Cross, a prominent ship-builder at that time, deeply interested in the organization of the society, contributed liberally toward the cost of the meeting-house, and probably owned the land upon which it stood. No evidence can be found, however, in the Essex registry of deeds to corrobo- rate this statement. In 1756, a strong and vigorous effort was made to provide a larger and more convenient place of worship for the pros- 5iS OULD NEWBURY perous and growing' society. A committee was appointed to select a suitable lot of land for the new meeting-house. After careful consideration a lot of land on the corner of I-'ederal and School streets was purchased, and also an adjoining lot on School Street. The title to this j)roi)erty is described as follows: — In the di\"ision of the estate of Deacon Joshua Heck, in 1753, a lot of land on the ct)rner of School and Federal streets was assigned to Jonathan Reck. Sept. 26, 1754, Jonathan Beck sold a portion of this land, measuring five rods on School Street and the whole width on Federal Street, to Parker Noyes (Essex Deeds, book 102, leaf 131). April 12, 1756, Jonathan Beck sold an adjoining lot, measuring three and one-half rods on School Street, to Enoch Titcomb, Ralph Cross, John Greenleaf, Ebenezer Eittle, William Allen, Moses Bradstreet, James Jewett, and others, owners of the pews in the meeting-house to be built on said lot (book 142, leaf 304). April 12, 1756, Parker Noyes sold the land ]:)urchased of Jonathan Beck Sept. 26, 1754, "to the pewholders in the meeting house in Newbury to be built on said lot " (book 142, leaf 304). The timbers for the heavy oaken frame of the new building were promptl}' provided and made read}' for use ; and Jul}' 5, 1756, the act of raising and securing them in their proper places began. On the 7th of July the difficult task was completed ; and. in commemoration of the event. Rev. John Morehead, of Boston, a leading member of the presbytery, preached a sermon from the text, *'And the Lord appeared to Solomon b\- night, and said unto him. I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for a house of sacrifice" (2 Chron. vii : 12). (^n the fifteenth da}' of Au- gust, Re\'. Jonathan Parsons ])reached in the meeting-house for the first time, although it was still unfinishetl, and the audience were obliged to sit on rough benches tenijiorarih' pro- vided for that occasion. On the Kjtli and 20th of the same month the old meeting-house on High Street was taken down. Re\'. A. (1. X'ermih'e, in a discourse delivered .\o\'. 2.S, THE FIRST PKESBYTERIAX M EETING - HOUSE 5^9 1856, on the one hnndredth anniversary of the iMrst I'resby- terian Church, gives the following description of the building erected in 1756 : " Immense galleries, containing one hundred pews, besides free seats for strangers, covered three sides of FIRST PRESBYTERIAN MEETING HOUSE. BUILT IN 1756. the building. Opposite, on the long side (East), was the pulpit under which Whitefield was first buried. In the pulpit, at the end, sat the sexton. Immediately in front, below, was the Elder's seat,— a large, square pew, elevated three or four steps, with a table. Behind, and a little below them, sat the Deacons. And over all was the sounding- 5 JO OULD NEWPURY board, huni; 1)\- rnds from tlic ccilii^i;. An aisle run from the ])iili)it. or rather the deacons' seat, to the door opposite; and another aisle extended all aroimd the building, in front of the wall ])e\\s, which were elevated two steps. One hun- dred and thirt\--eii;-ht square pews were ranged upon the floor, with a chair in the centre. The seats were hung on hinges to be raised during prayer, and the older people still speak of the noise they made in falling." The steeple was not erected until 1759; and Samuel IVttingell, while at work upon it, on the tenth day of September fell to the ground and was instantly killed. ( )ct. 30, 1765, Rev. Jonathan Parsons, then li\ing in New- bur}', on High Street, near the head of Marlborough Street, bought of Nathaniel Carter fifty-three rods and eighty-five feet of land in Newburyport, bounded southwesterly by a way thirty-two feet wide (School Street), southea.sterly by land of Amos Knight, northwesterly by land of Stephen Mighill, and northeasterly by land of Ralph Cross (P^ssex Deeds, book 122, leaf 95). On this lot of land Mr. l^arsons built a dwelling-house which he occujiied with his famil)' for the remainder of his life.* * Attcr tliL- dcatli of Re\-. Junatliaii Parsons, liii daugliter, Phebe Parsons, singleuonian, sold her interest in the house and land, March 23, 179^, to liishop Xorton, of Newburyport, dru.e;- gist (Kssex Registry of Deeds, book 172, leaf 267). Oct. 15, 1S03. Jonathan Parsons and Lucy Parsons, children of Rev. Jonathan Parsons, sold their interest in the property to Bishop Norton, of Newburyport (book 172, leaf 266). .■\ug. 13, 1S17, William Hishop Norton conveyed to Oeorge Rogers one undivided twentieth part of land and buildings on .School Street, with other property de\ised to him by the will of his father, Bishop NorKm (book 215, leaf i6y). Sept. 3. iJ^3i, ( ieorge Rogers gave a quitclaim deed to William Alexander "of land and buildings on School .Street, Newburyport, formerly owned by Bishop Norton, which I bought of William B. Norton Aug. 13, 1817" (book 263, leaf 45). Dec. 1, 1X30, Mark Coffin sold to William .Alexander one-eighth part of land and liuilding described substantially as above (book 27^", leaf 115). Jan. 30, 1^34, Jane P.urns and others, children and heirs of Bishoj) Norton, sold to William -Alexander seven-eighths of the above-described property (book 277, leaf loS). Nov. 26, 1838, William .Alexander, by C.ilman White, Deputy Sheriff, under execution, ctm- veyed to Hannah Carr, of Newburyport, widow, bis interest in this estate (book 308, leaf 170). .March 25, 1851, Hannah Carr gave to Joseph K. Carr, trustee for Hannah Pearson Carr, a deed of all her interest in the above-described house and land on .School Street (book 566, leaf 53). Hannah Pearson Carr, widow of Joseph K. Carr, died Oct. 13, i.Syo, her husband ha\ing died in 18S7. In her will, dated .April 20, 1877, and proved the fourth .Monday in November, iS()fi, she gave all her real estate to her lnisi)and during his life, and the remainder in fee to her adopted daughter, Maria \- . Dean, wife nl |i>siph I' I >e.ui, who is ,it llu- jiresfnt lime owner of the house and land in School Street. THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN MEETING-HOUSE 521 In 1770, Rev. Georg-e Whitefield visited Newburyport, and preached in the meeting-house on Federal Street September 10 and II. The Bible that he used at these services has been carefully preserved, and is still used on special occasions. After a brief visit to Portsmouth and Exeter, N. H., he PULPIT IN FIRST PRESBYTERIAN MEETING-HOUSE. returned to Newburyport September 29, and died suddenly Sunday morning, September 30, at the residence of Rev. Jonathan Parsons on School Street. He was buried in a vault beneath the pulpit of the P'ederal Street meeting-house. In the same vault now rest the remains of Rev. Jonathan Parsons, who died July 19, 1776, and Rev. Joseph Prince, a blind preacher, who died in Newburyport Jan. 15, 1791- 522 OCLD iXEWBURV The interior of the iTieetini;"-h()Use was ahnost entirely rebuilt in 1829. The lari;e, square pews were removed, the ceiling lowered, and the puli:>it transferred from the north- easterly to the southeasterly side of the building. New X- f> %y CENOTAPH IN OLD SOUTH CHURCH. galleries were put in, a new ci'}pt constructed, ami a cenotaph erected to the memor)' of Rev. (ieorge W'hitefield. This cenotaph was designed by .Strickland. The e.xecution of the work was entrusted to a skilful marble worker in Philadelphia, named Struthers. Professor l'",benezer Porter, I). 1)., of Andover Seminar\. composed the insciiption ; ami THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN MEETING-HOUSE 523 the cost of the memorial was defrayed by William Bartlet, Esq., of Newburyport.* A few years previous to this date the main bone of White- field's right arm was surreptitiously taken from its place in the old vault by a visitor, and carried to England. It came into the possession of a Mr. Bolton, a strong friend and ad- mirer of Whiteiield, who returned it, in September, 1849, to Rev. Jonathan E. Stearns, then pastor of the Eederal Street Society, with a letter disclosing some facts that established its identity beyond question. It was placed, with the other remains of the distinguished preacher, in the newly con- structed vault, and is now more carefully guarded, in order to prevent, if possible, the recurrence of similar depredations. In 1856, extensive alterations and repairs were made on the exterior of the meeting-house, and at the same time some needed improvements within the building were made, practically transforming the old edifice into a new one. All traces of ancient workmanship and peculiarities of construc- tion disappeared, and only the oak frame remained undis- turbed. The half-tone print, however, on page 519, gives a view of the exterior of this structure as it was before these alterations were made. The pastors of the Eederal Street Church have been as follows : — Rev. Jonathan Parson.s, installed March 19, 1746; died July 19. 1776. Rev. John Murray, installed June 4. 17S1 ; died March 13. 1793. Rev. Daniel Dana. D. D., installed Dec. 19, 1794: resigned Nov. 19, 1820. Rev. .Samuel Porter Williams, installed Feb. 8, 1821 : died Dec. 23, 1826. Rev. John Proudfit. D. D., installed Oct. 4, 1827: resigned Jan. 24, Rev. Jonathan F. Stearns, D. D., installed Oct. 16. 1835; resigned Oct. 14. 1849. Rev. Ashbel G. Vermilye, installed May i, 1850 : resigned April 14. 1863. Rev. Richard H. Richardson, installed April 24. 1864; resigned Oct. 28. 1 868. Rev. Charles S. Durfee, installed Sept. 8, 1869; resigned July 29, 1872. * Belclier's Biography of Whitefield, page 443. 524 OULD XK]VBURY Kev. William \V. Newell. Jr.. installed May 7. 1.S74: resigned June 30. 1880. Kev. Charles C. Wallace, installed May 3. iSSi : resigned Oct. 3. 1888. Rev. Urevard D. .Sinclair, installed May i. 1 S89 ; resigned Nov. 21. .892. Kev. Horace C. Hovey. installed .May 9. 1893. For additional information in regard to the work and in- fluence of this society the reader is referred to a discourse prepared and pul:)lished in i ^26 by Re\'. Samuel 1'. Williams ; to an address at the centennial anniversary of the organiza- tion of the church in 1846 by Rev. Jonathan F. Stearns; to a sermon, delivered after the completion of the repairs on the meeting-house in 1856, by Rev. Ashbel G. \"ermil}-e ; and to a pamphlet, now in course of publication, under the su- pervision of Rev. Horace C. Hovey and Messrs. John W. Winder, Prentiss H. Reed, and John 1'. Brown, containing a full report of the exercises at the celebration, April 7 and 8, 1896, of the one himdred and fiftieth anniversar)' of the society. Among the narrative and legendar)- pt)ems of John G. Whittier is one entitled "The Preacher," which telJs of the marvellous power and persuasive eloquence of Whitefield, •' A homeless pilgrim with dubious name Blown about on the winds of fame, Now as an angel of blessing classed. And now as a mad enthusiast." '{"he closing lines of this poem read as follows : — •• L'nder the church of Federal Street, Under the tread of its Sabbath feet, W'alled about by its basement stones. Lie the marvellous preacher's bones. No saintly honors to them are shown. No sign nor miracle have they kncnvn : r>ut he who i)asses the ancient church .Stops in the shade of its belfry-porch. .And ponders the wonderful life nf him Who lies at rest in that charnel dim. THE FIRST PKl'.SBYl'KRIAX MEETIXG-HO[:SK 525 Long shall the traveller strain his eye From the railroad car. as it plunges by. And the vanishing town behind him search For the slender spire of the Whitefield Church. And feel for one moment the ghosts of trade. .And fashion, and folly, and pleasure laid By the thought of that life of pure intent. That voice of warning yet eloquent. Of one on the errands of angels sent. And if where he labored the flood of sin Like a tide from the harbor-bar sets in. And over a life of time and sense The church-spires lift their vain defence, As if to scatter the bolts of (iod With the points of Calvin's thunder-rod. — Still, as the gem of its civic crown. Precious beyond the world's renown. His memory hallows the ancient town." REV. GEORGE WHITEFIELD. At (jlouccster, England, on the sixteenth day of December, 1 714, George Whitefield was born. On his second visit to America he preached, Sept. 30. 1740, in the Third Parish meeting-house, Newbury, then located in the centre of what is now known as Market Square, and under the pastoral care of Rev. John Lowdl. On his return from Hampton, Portsmouth, and York, he preached again in Newbury Saturday morning, Oct. 4, 1740, to an immense congregation. A writer who was present at services in New York con- ducted by the young and eloquent Whitefield, just previous to his visit to New England, describes him as follows : — He is a man of middle stature, of a slender body, of a fair com- plexion, and of a comely appearance. He is of a sprightly, cheerful temper, and acts and moves with great agility and life. The endow- ments of his mind are uncommon. His wit is quick and piercing, his imagination lively and florid ; and, as far as I can discern, both are under the direction of a solid judgment. He has a most ready memory, and. I think, speaks entirely without notes. He has a clear and musical voice, and a wonderful command of it. He uses much gesture, but with great propriety. Every accent of his voice, every motion of his body, speaks ; and lioth are natural and unaffected. If his delivery be the product of art. it is certainly the perfection of it ; for it is entirely concealed. The vast congregation that listened to liis i)reaching in Philadelphia. niunl)ering from hve to fifteen thousand dailw were drawn together, as if b}' magic, from all classes and conditions of society. Benjamin 1^'ranklin, describing these meetings, says : — Mr. W'liitelield's elo(|uence had a wonderful power over the hearts and ]nirses of his hearers, of whicli I myself was an instance. ... 1 hap- REV. GEORGE IVim^EFIELD 527 pened soon after to attend one of his sermons, in the course of which I perceived he intended to tinish with a collection ; and I silently resolved he should get nothing from me. I had. in my pocket, a handful of copper money, three or four silver dollars, and live pistoles in gold. As he proceeded, I began to soften, and concluded to give the copper : another stroke of his oratory determined me to give the silver ; and he finished so admirably that 1 emptied mv pocket whollv into the col- lector's dish, gold and all. On his third visit to America, Whitefield came again to Newbury, and preached to a large congregation July 29, 1747. His letters to friends in England during his fourth visit to America state that he held two services in Newbury Monday, Oct. 21, 1754, and a third service Tuesday morning, October 22, and also state that he had made arrangements to preach there the following Sunday, October 2"]. In an interleaved almanac, now in the possession of Mrs. Alexander B. Forbes, at Fatherland Farm, Rev. Moses Parsons, who was then settled at B)'field, wrote under date of Oct. 28, 1754, as follows : — Monday Mr. Whitefield came, and preached from Luke 19: 14 (But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying. We will not have this man to reign over us), dined here. Preach"d at Rowley P. M.. Psalm 51:11 (Cast me not away from thy presence, and take not thy Holy Spirit from me), then went to Ipswich and preach'd at 4 o'clock, but I did not hear him there. During W'hitefield's seventh and last visit to America he preached in the First Presbyterian meeting-house Sept. 10 and II, 1770.* He returned to Boston the following day, where he was detained by illness for nearly two weeks. On the 23d, 24th, and 25th of September he was at Portsmouth. N. H., and afterward visited Kittery and York, Me., returning to Newburyport, by the way of Exeter, N. H., on the 29th. * 111 the almanac referred to above,. Rev. Moses Parsons wrote under the date of Sept. 10, 1770, " Monday went to Port to hear Mr. Whitefield : dined at Mr. Little's with him." "Tuesday, September 11, went to (conference) at Amesbury. Mr. Prime preached. Mr. Whitefield preached at N. Port." "September 12, Weiisday went to Rowley to hear Mr. Whitefield." "Thursday, September 13, cloudy, some rain. Went to Mr. Chandler's to hear Mr. White- field." REi: GEORGF. UlI/TEFIELD 529 He was then quite ill antl almost exhausted. After an early sujjjDer he took a cantlle, and was hastenini; to his chamber. Friends and neighbors had assembled in front of the parsonage, and even crowded into the hall to hear and see the wonderful preacher. He paused on the staircase, and began to speak to them. Although breathing with difBculty, he continued to exhort them " until the candle which he held in his hand burned away and went out in its socket." At six o'clock the next morning, Sunday, Sept. 30, 1770, the most popular and powerful e\'angelist of modern times was dead. Funeral services were held at three o'clock Tuesday after- noon, Oct. 2, 1770, in the First Presbyterian meeting-house. Rev. Jonathan Parsons preaching the funeral sermon. The pall-bearers were Rev. Samuel Haven, D. D., of Portsmouth, Rev. Jedediah Jewett, pastor of the P^irst Church, and Re\'. James Chandler, pastor of the Second Church in Rowley, Rev. Daniel Rogers, of Exeter, Rev. Moses Parsons, of New- bury, and Rev. Edward Bass, D. D., rector of St. Paul's Church, Newburyport. An immense congregation, gath- ered from towns near and far remote, filled the meeting- house to its utmost capacity. He was buried in a Aault beneath the pulpit. The cenotaph erected to his memory by William Bartlet, Esq., in 1829, bears, in addition to his name, his age, and other facts connected with his busy life, these words, — " No other uninspired man ever preached to so large assemblies." The house in which Whitefield died is still standing on the easterly side of School Street, Newburyport, only a few rods distant from the house where William Tlo}'d Garrison was born. P^xtensive alterations and repairs were made upon it in 1872. The broad hall where the people gathered to listen, and the staircase on which Whitefield stood the night before his death, have }ielded to the demands of modern civiliza- tion. Two narrow halls, two modern stairways, and two doors opening to the street have taken the place of the former spacious entrance. These, with other changes made at an earlier date, have transformed the old parsonage into a tenement-house convenient for two families. PARKER RIVER BRIDGE. Soon after the incorporation of the town of Newbury a ferry was established for the transportation of passengers across the Parker River from Newbury Neck to the settle- ment at the Lower Green. Oct. 17, 1649, the General Court granted "the petition of Samu : Plum"", ferryman of Newbury, for to ha^ 2'' p passing"", for their transportation " (Massa- chusetts Colony Records, volume 2, page 283). Nov. 20, 1650, the town of Newbury granted to John Poore twenty-two acres of upland on the " great neck " in consequence of "his being so remote from meeting and difficulty in coming over the ferry and for his satisfaction." How long Air. Plummer remained in charge of the ferry is uncertain. In the spring of 1664 he asked for additional compensation for his services; and May 18, 1664, the Gen- eral Court passed the following order : — In ans'' to tlie petition of Samuel I'lummer. ffervman. of Xewbery, humbly .shewing that, by a country highway & bridge,* set forth & erected vp the riuer by ye County Court of Ipswich for ye bennefit of ye country, his inheritance & trade is much weakened iS: endamaged, & huml)ly desiring this Court to mak such due reparation to him, in con- sideration thereof, as in their wisdomes they shall see meet, the Court Judgeth it meete to order & enable the peticoner henceforth to take one penny more than formerly for the passage of each person. & each beast that he shall transport ouer that ferry, <.^ that he is X: shall be discharged of all rates that are or shallbe made in reference to the bridg & high- way mentioned in his petition, so long as he shall duelv attend ye ferry. — Mussdi/iiisef/s Colony Rfcords. volume 4. Part ii.. i)age 103. In 1734, an effort was made to induce the town of New- biu'y to consent to the building of a bridge o\cr the Parker * Sec skftili i>l 'rhiirlay's Ijiidge, i^age 204. PARKER RIVER BRIDGE 531 River at or near the place where Samuel Plummer had estab- lished the ferry nearly a century before. The following vote was passed and entered upon the records : — At a Legal meeting of ye Towne of Newbury May ye 7"' 1734, We do hereby . . . grant liberty to have a Bridge built over Parker River at Old Town (so called), provided it may be built & maintained without being a charge unto this Towne of Newbury, and allso provided that it be made a Bridge for coaches and carts, etc., to pass over upon and There be left convenient and sufficient roome for gundelose loaded with hay for to go up or Downe Said River under said Bridge, allso that all persons either with coaches, carts, etc., or with fforses, or on feet, shall have free liberty to pass & repas on said Bridge as in any Highwayes, & allso provided that there be a Bridge built as aforesaid within ten years next ensuing ye date hereof. This read & considered, and then put to vote by the Moderator; and it passed on y*^ afirmative. none discenting. The bridge, however, was not built until nearly twenty-five years after the above vote was passed. Meanwhile strong and persistent efforts were made to raise the money neces- sary to defray the cost of the proposed structure. At a meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town of Newbury, held Janu- ary ve 18, 1749. 't was put to vote whether the town are willing there should be a Bridge over the river Parker, alias Oldtown River, in this Town at ye ferrv Place, Provided it be Done without any Charge to the Town either for the Building or Supporting the same, & it passed on ye affaimative vote that M"^ Daniel Farnam prefer a Petition to ye General Court for a Lottery to Build said Bridge. Provided the Petition be Preferred without Cost to the Town, this was voted on ye affainV*". The General Court, Jan. 29, 1750-51, passed the following act, entitled : — An act for raising the sum of twelve hundred pounds by lottery, for building and maintaining a bridge over the river Parker, in the town of Newbury, at the place called Oldtown ferry. Whereas the building a bridge over the river Parker, in the town of Newbury, in the county of Essex, at the place called Oldtown Ferry, will be of public service ; and whereas the town of Newbury have, by Mr. Daniel Farnham, their agent, applied to this court for liberty to raise the sum of twelve hundred pounds, by lottery, for building and 532 OULD NEWBURY maintaining- a l)ridi;L' over said river, at the ferry place aforesaid, under the direction of persons to be appointed by this government. — Be it therefore enacted hv tlie IJeiiteiiant-Governor. Council, ami House of Representatives. That Thomas Herrv. John (ireenlcaf. Joseph Gerrish. and Joseph Atkins. Kscjuircs. and the said Daniel Farnliam. or any three of them, be and hereby are allowed and impowered to set up and carry on a lotterv. within the said town of Newbury, amounting to such a sum as, bv drawing ten per cent, out of each prize, they may thereby raise the sum of twelve hundred pounds, to be applied, by them or any three of them, towards building and maintaining a good and sufificient bridge at the place aforesaid, and for defraying the necessary cliarges of the M^ PARKER RIVER BRIDGE. lottery aforesaid: and that the said Thomas Berry. John (Ireenleaf, Joseph Gerrish, Joseph Atkins. Daniel Karnham, or any three of them, be and hereby are empowered to make all necessary rules for the regu- lar proceeding therein, and shall be sworn to the faithful discharge of their trust aforesaid, and be answerable to tlie purcliasers and drawers of the tickets for any deficiency or misconduct : and that the money so raised shall be applied to the uses and purposes aforesaid (Acts and Re- solves of the Province of Massachusetts Hay, volume 3. page 53'^ )■ With tiic I'liiuls raisctl 1)\- tliis l(»ttci-\- tlie bri(li;c was built in the N'cai' 175S iiiulcr the supeixision of Mr. Ralph Cro.ss. It was eii;ht huiulred and se\ent\' feet loni;', twentv-six feet wide, with nine piers and ei,i;ht wooden arehes. PARKER RIVER BRIDGE 533 April 28, 1760, an act proxiding for another lottery to raise X^6oo additional for defraying the charges already incurred in building the bridge was passed by the General Court. The preamble to this act states, on the repre- sentation of Daniel Farnham, Esq., one of the persons ap- pointed to carry on the lottery, that the bridge is nearly completed, that the cost of the same exceeds the sum raised by the lottery previously authorized, and that an additional sum is needed to complete the work. It further states that, inasmuch as Thomas Berry, one of the persons named in the act passed by the General Court Jan. 29, 1750-51, had died since the passage of that act, and John Greenleaf, Joseph Gerrish, and Joseph Atkins, Esquires, are unable, on account of age and sickness, to conduct the lottery and attend to the duties for which they were appointed, therefore Be it enacted by the Governor, Council, and House of Representa- tives, that Caleb Cushing, Esq., Joseph Gerrish, Jun'r, Esq., William Atkins, Esq., and Mr. Patrick Tracer, merchant, together with the aforesaid Daniel Farnham, Esq., or any three of them, are hereby em- powered to set up and carry on a lottery within the town of Newbury, and may thereby raise the sum of six hundred pounds for defraying the charges already incurred in building the bridge, and for the manage- ment and prosecution of the lotteries, and apply the residue, if any there be, to the maintaining and repairing of the bridge, as occasion shall require (Acts and Resolves of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, volume 4, page 326). In the warrant for the annual meeting of the town of New- bury, dated March 2, 1761, article fourth reads as follows : — To know wether the town will take the unsold Ticketts of Newbury Lottery, No. 4, for Building & maintaining the bridge at Old Town, if any should be unsold at the time of Drawing. And what the town will do to Promote & forward the drawing of said Lottery. The records do not state what action was taken when this article was reached in the regular order of business. Prob- ably the tickets were disposed of by persons directly inter- ested in the construction of the bridge ; and the town, in its 534 OULD A'KWBURY corporate caj^acit)', was not called upon to render any pecun- iary assistance. April 21, 1 76 1, the Lords of Trade in London wrote to Governor Bernard at Boston, New England, substantially as follows : — Between Fel)iuary and April. 1760. several laws were passed provid- ing for the construction of ferries, roads, &c., by lotteries, •• which is a mode of raising monev that in our opinion ought not to be counte- nanced, and hardlv to l)e admitted into practice upon the most pressing exigency of the state, more especially in the Colonys. where the forms of Government may not admit of those regulations and checks which are necessarv to prevent fraud and abuse in a matter so peculiarlv liable to them." We cannot therefore but disapprove these laws upon gen- eral principles: Init, when we consider the unguarded and loose manner in which they are framed, the objections are so many and so strong that We should have thought to have laid them before his Majesty for His Majesty's disapprobation were we not restrained by the consideration that the purposes for which they were passed having been carried into full execution, some inconveniences might attend disannulling them : but it is our duty to desire that you will not for the future give vour assent to any laws of the like nature. Notwithstanding the objections urged by the Lords of Trade, the General Court, Feb. 24, 1763, passed "An act for the continuation of the lottery for raising a fiu'ther sum for maintaining the bridge over the River Parker." V>\ the provisions of this act the persons named in the act a]v provcd April 28, 1 760, were authorized and em}:)()wered to continue the lottcr)' under the same regulations and restric- tions in oi"(lcr to raise the sum of ^,300 to defray the charges incurred in the building of the bridge, etc. (Acts and Resolves of the i'l-ovince of Massachusetts l^a\', xolume 4, page 615). Subsec|uentl}' an act for raising the sum of X3.-OO b}' means of a lotter}', for building a hall for the students of ilarxard College to dwell in. was passed In' the (ieneral Coiu-t, but was not consented to b}- (iovernor Bernartl initil he had submitted it to the Lords of Trade and obtained their consent to the same. In their repl\- the\- state that "the\' are still ot the opinion that lotlei'ies in the American C'olo- PARKER RIVER BRIDGE 535 nies ought not to be countenanced, and are fully convinced that the too frequent practice of such a mode of raising money will be introductive of great mischief ; yet, in con- sideration of the general propriety and utility of the service to be provided for by the bill submitted for approval, we have no objection to your passing it into a law, desiring at the same time that it may be understood that such a permis- sion shall not be drawn into precedent in any other case whatever." The managers of the lottery having expended all the money that had been raised for the purpose of building the bridge over the Parker River, it became necessary a few years later to provide funds to meet the cost of some needed repairs. The General Court therefore enacted, June 30, 1768, " that a toll gate shall be erected and a suitable person appointed to receive fees from every person who shall pass over the bridge." The act also fixed the rates of toll, author- ized the court of general sessions for the county of Mssex to appoint one or more trustees to receive of the keeper of the bridge the money collected, and provided that the bridge should be " free for all persons travelling to or from the place or places of publick worship on Lord's Days." The powers and privileges granted by this act " continued in force for ten years and no longer " (Acts and Resolves of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, volume 4, page 1030). At the July term of the court of general sessions, held at Salem in 1 768, Jonathan Poore was appointed toll-gatherer ; and Daniel Farnham, Esq., William Atkins, Esq., and Cap- tain Patrick Tracy were appointed trustees. Notwithstand- ing the limitations and restrictions named in the act above referred to, the bridge remained under the care and control of the court for nearly sixty years. In 1784, it was rebuilt; and at the December term, held in Salem in 1785, Moses Hoyt gave bond, with sureties, to the county treasurer " for the faithful discharge of his duties as trustee of the great bridge over Parker River." He evi- dently served as trustee for more than ten years. In 1796, at the April term of the court, he rendered an account of his 536 OULD XEIVBUKY rcccii)ts and expenditures, from which it a])pear.s that the rexenue iVoni the bridge was, at that date, barely sufficient to meet the annual expenses. Feb. 13, I79*S. the General Court passed "An act for establishinL;" a toll for the i^urpose of repairnig and maintain- ing the great bridge over the River Parker, in the town of Newbury, and county of Essex." l^y the provisions of this act toll w^as to be collected from the first day of May to the last da}' of October in each year, but no toll was to be de- manded on the Lord's Day. The court of general sessions was authorized to appoint a suitable person to receive the toll and sui)erintend the repairing of the bridge. The act also provided " that Jonathan Poor, Daniel Hale, Arnos Hale, Samuel Plumer, John Thurston, Benjamin Thurston, Mark Plumer, David Plumer, Stephen Poor, and Simeon Plummer, and their families, or the occupants of their estates contigu- ous to said Bridge, and their Minister and Physician, be, and hereby are, exempted from paying the toll required by this law, so long as they shall keep in good repair, in the judg- ment of the Trustee of said Bridge, the whole of the abut- ment of said Bridge, from the South shore to the first arch, including the Caps and railing." In 1827, extensive repairs were needed in order to make the bridge safe for travellers ; and on the third day of March of that year the General Court passed " an act to incorporate certain persons for the purpose of building or repairing a Bridge over Parker River, in the town of New- bury, in the County of Plssex." David Plummer, Daniel Plummer, Samuel Newman, Da\id Dole, Richard Jaques, I-'.noch Plummer, Jose])h l-^ndey, Samuel Poor, John M. Plummer, William Dole. Thomas Moody, and other persons associated with theni were made a corporation, b)- this act, under the name of the Parker River Bridge Corjjoration. The corporation was authorized to repair or rebuild the biitlge, with gootl and sufficient ma- terials, " o\er the ki\er Parker at a place formerly called and known by the name of ' ( )ld town fenw' " The bridge, when completed, to ha\e not less than six open arches, "one JWKKER R/l'r.K BRID(;E 537 ot said arches to be at least tOrty-five feet wide for the con- venience and accommodation of the boating;- on said ri\-er." It was also pro\ided that the corporation should ha\e the right to collect toll for the full term of fifty years ; " but all persons going to, or returning from, public worshi}) or mili- tary duty," were to be allowed to pass over the bridge free, and the General Court reserved to itself the privilege of regulating the rate of toll after the expiration of fifteen years. Under this act of incorporation a company was organized, and a committee appointed to make the necessary repairs. During the following summer the work was completed ; and the bridge, under the supervision and control of the Parker River Bridge Corporation, was maintained as a toll-bridge until the year 1850, when the rights and privileges of the corporation were surrendered to the Commonwealth. In 1 85 1, petitions, signed by Daniel Plummer and others, in behalf of the inhabitants of Newbur)-, and Micajah Lunt and others, in behalf of the proprietors of Parker River bridge, were presented to the General Court, praying that the county commissioners might be authorized to repair or rebuild the bridge at the public expense. In the warrant, calling a meeting of the legal voters of the town of Newbury, dated Voh. i, 1851, one of the articles reads as follows : — To see what action the town will take on an order of notice from the (jeneral Court on petition of Micajah Lunt and Samuel Poor, committee of the proprietors of Parker River bridge. P^eb. 8, 185 1, the town, on motion of J. Little, I^sq., " voted that the Hon. Caleb Gushing be requested to prefer to the Legislature the passage of a law authorizing the County Commissioners to accept of toll bridges, connecting public roads, when siu'rendered by the proprietc^rs and of public benefit." During the severe storm, which occurred in the month of April, 1 85 I, when the light-house on Minot's ledge, at the entrance to Boston Harbor, was destroyed, the tide rose to a 538 OULD XFJVBCRY great licii;ht in I'arkcr Rixer, and three of the wooden arches near the centre of the bridge were lifted from their founda- tions and floated some distance up the stream. May 24, 1 85 I, the General Court passed an act authoriz- ing the count}' commissioners '' to construct a bridge over Parker river, in the town of Xewbur)', at or near where the Parker ri\'er bridge, so called, lately stood ; the expense to be assessed upon such parties as they may have a right to direct to i^ay the same." In the second section of this act the Commonwealth relinquished to the County of Essex all rights surrendered, or to be surrendered to it, by the stockholders of the Parker Ri\er bridge. At a meeting of the legal voters of the town of Newbury, held Aug. 6, 1851, on motion of Asa Adams, "a committee was chosen to oppose the building of a bridge over the Parker Ri\"er until the town can have a hearing before the Legisla- ture." The committee consisted of Messrs. David S. Cald- well, Daniel Noyes, and Isaac Adams ; and they were authorized to employ counsel, should they deem it expedient to do so. This remonstrance on the part of some of the inhabitants of Newbury delayed the work of reconstruction for several months; but during the summer and autumn of 1853 the bridge was completed, and in October of that year the county commissioners issued an order directing the town of Newbury " to pay the expense of building the bridge o\er the river Parker at old town." In the warrant, signed by the selectmen of Newbury Dec. 12, 1853, calling u])on the inhabitants of the town to meet tor the transaction of imi)ortant business, the second and third articles of the warrant reatl as follows: — Article .Second. — To see if the town will choo.se a Coniniittce to a])i)ear before the Hon. County Commi.s.sioner'.s Court, to be holden at Salem the last Tuesday of the present month, to show cause why thev should not pay for the construction of Oldtow n l)ridge, so called, as ordered i)y the said Commissioners. If said committee be chosen, then Article Third, — To see if tiie town will instruct said Committee to relin(|uish all riL^ht or claim to establish a toll on said bridije. PARKER RIVER BRIDGE 539 At the town meeting held Dec. 19, 1853, "it was voted that a committee of three be chosen to appear before the County Commissioners on Tuesday, the 27"' inst.," to show cause why the town should not be called upon to pay for the construction of the bridge over Parker River ; and this committee, consisting of Captain Richard Adams, Ebenezer Little, and William \V. Perkins, were authorized to relin- quish all right to establish toll over said bridge. At the hearing held December 27 an agreement was reached b}' which the county assumed the entire cost of rebuilding the bridge, and the town of Newbury was required to pay all subsequent charges for repairs. In compliance with this agreement the bridge was made free for the accom- modation of the public, and ever since that date it has been maintained and controlled by the town of Newbury. COLONEL MOSES LITTLE. The house at Turkey Hill now owned and occujMed by Mr. John (Gardner Little was built, in 1748, by Colonel Moses Little, a descendant of George Little, who settled in Newbury in 1640. The principal facts and incidents related in the following sketch are taken from the genealogy of the family prepared by George Thomas Little, A. M., and pub- lished in 1882. The frequent transfers of land to and from (George Little, who was a tailor by trade, indicate that he was also deeply interested in agriculture and a large owner of real estate. His son, Moses Little, born March 15, 1657, lived and died in the old homestead in Newbury not far from "trayneing green," on the road leading to the mill on Little river. His grandson, Moses Little, born Feb. 26, 1691, married, Feb. 12, 1 7 16, Sarah, daughter of Sergeant Stephen and Deborah Jaques, and lived in the same place until about the year 1730, when he bought, of his uncle Joseph, the Turkey Hill farm and removed his famil}' thither. Colonel Moses Little, son of the last-named Moses Little and Sarah, his wife, was born May 8, 1724, in the old home- stead, but subsequently lived with his parents, after their removal, at Turkey Hill. He married, June 5, 1743, Abigail, daughter of Joshua Bailey, when he was only nineteen years of age. His wife was a sister of General Jacob Bailey, a distinguished officer of the French and Revolutionary wars. In 1748, he built a house for his own use a few rods in a northerly directicm from his father's residence, and there lived until his death. The house is still standing ; and the details of its cost, in his own handwriting, have been care- fully preserved, and are still in the possession of his de- scendants. 542 OULD XF.WBURY lie was for sc\eral )'ears surveyor of the King's woods, and actiuired by t;rant and )Hn-chase large tracts of land in \'ermont and New Hampshire, and at one time was the owner of the greater part of what is now Androscoggin County in the State of Maine. Nov. 5, 1767, his father conveyed to him, in consideration of his payment of various sums of mone}', amounting" to ;^i,300, to his brothers and sisters, one hundred acres of land in Newbury, with the buildings thereon; "also sixty acres of land with the buildings thereon where my said son Moses now lives " ; also four acres at Brown's Garden, so called ; and all other lands and interests therein, where\er the same may be, excepting five acres of land in Bradford, bought of David Pearson (Essex Deeds, book 131, page 222). At the breaking out of the War of the Revolution, Moses Little, Jr., was over fifty years of age ; but, at the first news of the battle of Lexington, he marched with a company of Newbury men to the headquarters of the army at Cambridge. He was placed in command of a regiment raised in the northern part of Essex County. "At the battle of Bunker Hill he led three of his com- panies across Charlestown Neck, under a severe fire from the British batteries and ships-of-war, reached the scene of action before the first charge of the enemy, and was present through- out the entire engagement. His men were posted in differ- ent places, — a part at the redoubt, a part at the breastwork, and some at the rail fence. A fourth compan)' came upon the hill after the battle began." In this engagement fort\' of his regiment w^ere killed or wounded. The names of the officers and pri\ates who enlisted in 1775 to ser\e for eight months, under Colonel Moses Little, in the company commanded by Captain Jacob Gerrish, are as follows : — Jacol) Cicrri.sli. Capt. Silas Adani.s. Lieut. .'\nio.s Atkin.son. Lieut. Xatiri I'carson. .Sergt. Stc'i)lien I.unt. Sen^^t. Will. Searl, Sergt. Natiri .\(lam.s. Sergt. Jacob Hale. Corp. Win. Mor<(aridge. Corp. Kli])ha]ct Kilhurn. Corp. COI.OXEL MOSES LITTLE 543 Joseph CaiT, Corp. Benj. Newman. Di'inn &-- Fife. John Kenney, Pniiii o-' Fife. Pi ii 'dies. Enoch Adams. Mark Anthony. Edward Deverisli Burke, John Burbank. Jacob Chizamore, Benj. Beedle, John Currier. Jedediah Currier. William Currier. Benj. Carr, John Choat. Eben Choat, John Cheney, Enoch Flood, Wm. Flood, Daniel (Joodridge, ( )liver ( kiodridge, John Lunt. Annis Merrill. Christopher Merril! Richard Martin. Peter Ordway, Mo.ses Pettengill, .Samuel Place. Benj. Poor. Amos Poor, Eliphalet Poor. Joseph Rogers. Richard Rolfe, Moses Rollins. Stephen Smith, John Sawyer, Absalom Thorla, Joshua Tappan.* Colonel Moses Little was officer of the day when Washing- ton took command of the army, and snbsequently became personally acquainted with his commander-in-chief. " He went with the army to New York after the evacuation of Boston, and was present at the disastrous battle of Long Island. He held command of Fort Greene, near the centre of the American line, before the engagement, and during it was stationed at the Hatbush Pass. He also took part in the battle of Harlem Heights, but did not accompany his men in the retreat through New Jersey, being detained by sickness at Peekskill. During the winter he was in com- mand of an important encampment at the latter place, but in the spring of 1777 was forced to return home on account of ill-health. Two years later he declined for the same reason the commission of brigadier-general and the command of an expedition raised by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to dislodge the enemy from their position on the Penobscot." After his return home he was for several years elected representative to the General Court. In 1784, he lost to a * History of Essex County, iniblished in iSS.S, second vulunic, page 1723. 544 OULD NEUIWRY great extent liis power of speech by a stroke of paralysis. He liv^ed, however, for many )'ears, dying May 27, 1798. The sword he used at J-5unker Hill, his commission from the Continental Congress, and other mementoes of his long and eventful life are j^reserN'cd at Turke)' Hill. His will, dated Sept. i, 1775, and proved June 4, 1799, made libei"al bequests to his wife and to each of his daughters. To his sons, Josiah and Moses Little, he gave the farm in Newbury, with the buildings thereon. He also ga\e to his son Moses about seven thousand acres of land in Apthorp, N. H., and one-eighth of the Pejepscot patent on the east side of the Androscoggin River. In the division of the farm at Turkey Hill between Josiah and Moses, the latter came into possession of one-half the up- land and meadow land, together with the whole of the house built b)' Colonel Moses Little in i74cS. He owned and occu- pied the house until March 18, 1842, when he made an assignment of his property to W. B. Bannister and Josiah Little (Essex Deeds, book 331, page 95). March 22, 1842, W. B. Bannister and Jo.siah Little con- veyed the house and land to Matthias P. Sawyer (book 348, page 122). April II, 1842, Matthias P. Sawyer gave a deed of this property to Josiah Little (book 332, page 11). Oct. 2, i860, the executors of the will of Josiah Little sold to John Gardner Little "all the land with the buildings thereon," particularly described in the deed recorded in the registi-)' of deeds, book 612, page 221. Mr. John (iardner Little, the present owner of the estate, is a great-grand.son of Colonel Moses Little. The half-tone print on page 540 gives a view of the old homestead as it now is. Although nearly a century and a half old, there has been no attempt in recent years to change its ap|)earance outwardh' or modernize it within. PATRICK TRACY. Many important facts and incidents connected witli the early life and parentage of Patrick Tracy are unknown. He was probably born in the county of Wexford, province of Leinster, Ireland, about the year 171 1. When quite a young lad, he sought and obtained employment in a merchant ves- sel, and. with the consent of his parents, sailed from the harbor of Wexford for New England. The date of his arrival in Newbury is uncertain. For several years he followed the sea, and made frequent voyages to the West Indies and elsewhere. He afterward became a competent and skilful navigator, and as ship-master and ship-owner acquired considerable wealth. He subsequently established himself in business as a merchant and importer of foreign merchandise. He was a vestryman in St. Paul's Church from 1743 to 1 747, inclusive, and a subscriber to a fund raised in 1 743 for the purpose of providing new pews for the church. May I, 1744, he was assigned two pews (Nos. 35 and 49) as his proportion of the number built. Dec. 9, 1 749, he bought of Deacon Parker Noyes about fifteen rods of land with a dwelling-house and shop thereon, near the foot of State Street, on the southwesterly side of Water Street, for the sum of ^4,800, including, also, the privilege of a twelve-foot way leading from Water Street to the land of Joseph Arnold. The heirs of Samuel Todd, Timothy and Richard Toppan, Joseph Arnold, and the grantor are named as abutters (Essex Deeds, book 93, leaf 195). Patrick Tracy owned and occupied this property at the time of his decease, but the boundaries had been consider- PATRICK TRACY. rATRlCK TRACY 547 ably enlarged by the purchase of adjoining land in 1753 and 1754. The house and other buildings were destroyed by the great fire of 181 1. The twelve-foot way mentioned in the deed is now known as Elbow alley. It extends from Water Street, near its junction with Market Square, running at first in a southerly direction, then turning abruptly to the south- west, and so continuing until it reaches Liberty Street. July 8, 1757, Mr. Tracy purchased the dwelling-house, wharf, dock, etc., owned b)^ Colonel Richard Kent at the time of his death. On this wharf, built by Richard Dole in 1678, Mr. Tracy erected several large warehouses for the storage of merchandise. In 1 77 1, he bought the house and land on Greenleaf's lane previously owned and occupied by Rev. John Lowell. He removed the house to Temple Street, and erected on the site thus made vacant an elegant and substantial residence for his eldest son, Nathaniel Tracy.* His only daughter, Hannah, married Jonathan Jackson in 1772, and commenced her married life in the house on High Street now known as the Dexter house. In 1778, the adjoining house, built by Hon. John Lowell, was purchased by Mr. Tracy for the use of his son John Tracy. A portrait of Patrick Tracy, painted by an unknown artist, is in the possession of Mrs. Patrick Tracy Jackson, No. 383 Beacon Street, Boston. A photograph of this painting hangs in the Public Library Building, Newburyport, and has been reproduced by the half-tone process for the illustration of this sketch. The original oil painting is of very large size, the canvas measuring at least five feet in width and ten feet in height. The work is finely executed, and represents Captain Tracy standing erect, dressed in the costume of the period. An anchor, on which his left hand rests, with several boxes and bales of merchandise in the background, symbolize his career as a sailor and as a merchant. In commercial as well as in mercantile affairs Captain Tracy was eminently successful, and maintained to the close of a long life the character of an honorable and upright man. * In 1865, this house was purchased by pri\ate subscription, and presented to llie city of New- buryport for a Public Library Building. 548 OULD NEWBURY His intention of man"ia^L;e to Hannah Carter, of Hampton, N. H., was recorded in Newbury Dec. 4. 1742 ; and Jan. 25, 1742-3, he was married by Rev. John Lowell, of Newbury. His children by this marriage were as follows : — Hannah. l)orn Oct. 20. 1743: died July 2. 1744. \Mncent. born May 4. 1745: died July 7. 1745. Hannah (Carter) Tracy died March 27, 1746, aged twenty- eight. Captain Tracy married, for his second wife, Hannah Gookin, daughter of Rev. Nathaniel Gookin, Jr., and Doroth)- (Cotton), of Hampton, N. H.. July 25, 1749. The children by this second marriage were as follows : — Nathaniel, born Aug. 11. 1751. John, born April 19, 1753. Hannah, born April 26, 1755. Hannah (Gookin) Tracy died Aug. 20, 1756, aged thirt}-- three. Captain Tracy married March 25, 1773, for his third wife, Mary, widow of Michael Dalton and mother of Tristram Dalton. He had no children by this marriage. He died Feb. 28, 1789, aged seventy-eight. Mary (Dalton) Trac)' died Dec. 10, 1791, aged seventy-eight. He was buried in St. Paul's churchyard. On the monument erected to his momor}' is the following inscription : — Underneath are the remains of Patrick Tracw E.squire. Who departed this life February 2Sti' i 789 Aged 78 years. In various and strongly Contrasted Scenes of Life He eminently shone as a man. A citizen and a Christian. His firm expectation of a future existence Moderated his Temper in Prosperity .SupiKirted him in .\dversitv .\nd enabled him to triumiili in Dcatii. PA TRICK TRACY 549 His will, on inle at the probate office in Salem, was evi- dently written by Theophilus Parsons, who was named as executor. The will was dated Oct. i6, 1788, and proved April 3, 1789. By this will he gave to his son Jonathan Jackson and wife, Hannah (Tracy) Jackson, and their chil- dren " the house where I now live " at the foot of Fish Street ; to John Tracy and his children "the house where he (John Tracy) now lives, purchased of John Lowell, P:sq." ; and to Nathaniel Tracy and his children " my brick dwelling house in Newburyport at present improved by my son Jonathan Jackson, with all the land under and adjoining the same, and all the buildings thereon, being all my land between Fish Street and Green. Street." He also provided for the support of his "faithful black man Apropos," and gave him " the right to dwell with his family in the house now standing upon my land or field afore- said by the burying place in which he now dwells, and also a right during his the said Apropos' natural life to improve the garden adjoining his said dwelling house, which rights, free of any rent, I hereby give and confirm to him, the said Apropos, during his own life, and no longer." " And, further, I hereby enjoin it upon my children that when and so far as the said Apropos is incapacitated from acquiring his subsistence, and that with comfort, that they equally join in assisting him to render his life comfortable ; and this I expect from my children as they value my injunc- tions or shall respect my memory." April 8, 1 79 1, two years after the death of Patrick Tracy, the land upon which Apropos lived, with about eleven and one-half acres adjoining, was conveyed by Thomas Russell to Theophilus Parsons, " reserving to the said Apropos the right to use and occupy the said house and about one-half acre of land" (Fssex Deeds, book 154, page 178). March 30, i 792, Theophilus Parsons conveyed the above- described property to Timothy Dexter (book 154, page 178). Dec. 10, 1794, Timothy Dexter sold to Anthony Daven- port, merchant, and Moses Davenport, innholder, a certain lot of land, situated in Newburyport, bounded and described 550 OULD NEIVBL'KY substantially as in the above-named deeds, "reserving out of the described Premises to Appropos Tracy, late servant to Patrick Tracy, Esq., deceased, the use and occupation of a dwelling house and half an acre of land under and adjoin- ing the same, situate at the East corner of the Premises as the same is fenced, by the said Appropos during the natural life of the said Appropos " (book 158, page 231). March 27, 1848, William Davenport, son of Anthony Davenport, and Anthony, son of Moses Davenport, sold to the town of Xewburyport one-half the Davenport pasture, so called, bounded on Low Street (now Pond Street), the town's land, and land of Eastern Railroad Company (book 395' P'^S'*^ -09)- ^^y t^"^i^ conveyance the east corner of the pasture where '' Appropos " formerly lived was transferred to the town of Newburyport, and since that date there has been no change in the ownership of the propert}'. The old homestead, owned and occupied by Patrick Tracy at his death, remained in the possession of Jonathan Jackson and his children until Jan. 17, 1805, when one-half of the land and buildings were sold to Mark Coffin for 54,500, and the other half to Joseph Cutler for a like sum. The deeds were signed by Jonathan Jackson, Henry Jackson, merchant, Charles Jackson, James Jacks(Mi, ph}'sician, Patrick Tracy Jackson, merchant, Harriet Jackson and Mary Jackson, sin- glewomen, Erancis Cabot Lowell, merchant, and wife Han- nah in her right, and John Gardner and wife Sarah in her right, all of Boston (Essex Deeds, book 177, leaves 38 and 70). Joseph Cutler sold his half of the proi^ert)' to Richard Pike Oct. 31, 1807 (book 182, leaf 28) ; and, after the death of Mark Coffin, Samuel Bailey purchased the other half (deeds recorded book 178, page 133, and book 182, page 50). Nov. 20, 1807, a partition was made of the land and build- ings between the Iwo owners ; and that portion ui")on which the house stood came into the possession of Richard Pike, who owned it when it was de.stroyed by the great fire in 1 8 1 I . PUBLIC LIBRARY BUILDING. After the purchase of the Lowell estate on (jreenleaf's lane in 1771, Patrick Tracy erected on the site of the old house, which he removed to Temple Street, an elegant brick residence for his eldest son, Nathaniel Tracy, who married, Feb. 28, 1775, Mary Lee, daughter of Colonel Jeremiah Lee, of Marblehead. At that date, Nathaniel Tracy was not quite twenty-four years of age. He was born Aug. 11, 1751, and graduated from Harvard College in 1769. He took a supplementary course of study at Yale, and in 1772 commenced business in partnership with Jonathan Jackson at Newburyport. The firm was prosperous, and for many years engaged in mercan- tile transactions of great magnitude. At the breaking out of the Revolutionary War, Nathaniel Tracy fitted out a fleet of privateers. The first one sailed from this port in August, 1775. During the next eight years he was the principal owner of tw^enty-four cruising ships, carrying 340 guns, and navigated by 2,800 men. They captured one hundred and twenty vessels, which, with their cargoes, were sold for nearly four million dollars ; and with these prizes 2,225 ^''"'^''^ were taken prisoners of war. During the same period Mr. Tracy was the principal owner of one hundred and ten merchant vessels valued, with their cargoes, at $2,733,300. At the close of the war only thirteen were left, all the rest having been lost or captured by the enemy. While prosperous and successful, Mr. Tracy lived in mag- nificent style. He owned several houses in addition to the brick house on State Street. Among them was the Spencer- Pierce house in Newbury and the old Craigie house in Cam- bridge, formerly Washington's headquarters, and afterward PUBLIC L/BRARV JU'ILD/XG 553 the resitlence of the poet Loni;fello\v. He was liberal and given to hosjMtah'ty. His eellars were stoeked with the choicest wines. His horses and carriai^es were the best that money could buy, and the appointments at his table were rich and sumptuous. At his home in Cambridge he entertained many distinguished guests ; and in the brick house on State Street, Newburyport, he was often honored with visitors jirominent in pubHc Hfe. In an article written by Colonel Samuel Swett, .son of I)i-. John Barnard Swett, and published in the Nczvbiiryport Ihrald Nov. 23, 1865, is the following interesting state- ment : — Thomas Jefferson was an intimate friend of Mr. Tracy, and wrote some poetry concerning him. He was a guest of Mr. Tracy for some time at his house, with his eldest daughter and a female .slave ; and they embarked with Mr. Tracy in his ship -Ceres" for England, where Mr. Jefferson debarked and Mr. Tracy sailed for Portugal in hopes of ob- taining a favorable settlement of his accounts with Gardocjui there, but in this he was most wofully disappointed. The facts stated in the above cjuotation are corroborated by James Farton in his Life of Thomas Jefferson. A para- graph from the chapter entitled " Envoy to France " reads as follows : — While Jefferson was thinking of returning in all haste to New York to catch the next French packet, he heard of a Boston ship loading for London that would, it was thought, put him ashore on the French coast. It proved to be the ship •• Ceres," belonging to Nathaniel Tracy, one of the great merchants of New England, who was going in her himself, and would land the party at Portsmouth, after having passed the whole voyage in pommunicating commercial knowledge to Mr. Jefferson. Nothing could have been more fortunate. Parton adds that Jefferson, in order to obtain additional in- formation in regard to the business affairs of New England, "made an excursion along the coast to Salem, Newburyport, Portsmouth, towns beginning already to feel the impulse towards the remoter commerce which was to enrich them." Jefferson, in his autobiography, briefly alludes to this trip to New England in 1784, and says : — 554 or LP XEW/WRY On the 71I1 of Mav Coni^ress resolveil that a .Minister Plenipotentiary should be appointed in addition to Mr. Adams and Dr. Franklin for nesjotiatinii' treaties of commerce with forei,ij;n nations, and I was elected to that (lutv. I accordinglv left .Xnnaijolis on the 1 ith. took with me mv eldest dau,<,diter. then at I'hiladelphia (the two others being too young for the voyage), and proceeded to Boston in quest of a pa.ssage. While passing through the different states. I made a point of informing NATHANIEL TRACY. myself of the state of commerce in each : went on to New Hampshire with the same view, and returned to lioston. Thence I sailed on the 5th of Julv. in the ■• Ceres." a merchant ship of Mr. Nathaniel Tracy, bound to Cowes. He was himself a passenger: and after a pleasant voyage of nineteen davs. from land to land, we arrived at Cowes on the 26th. .Mr. Tracx' I'cinaincd in luiiopc .scxeral months, ciulcaxor- '\w\i to brill!'- about a satisfactor\' .scttlciiK'nt of liis busincs.s /T/w./c LinR.iRY nr/i.n/xa 555 affairs, hut at length was compelled to return home, hroken- hearted and discourat^'ecl. Two years later, in I7'port : — Friday, October 23, i/Si). On tile l.ine between Worcester and Middlesex I was met by a 'IVoop of light Horse belong- ing to latter, who Escorted me to Marlborough, (id miles) where we dined, and thence to Weston (14 more where lodged). .At Marlborough we met Mr. Jonathan Jackson, tlie Marshall of this State, who proposed to attend me whilst I remained in it. Kriday. October jotli i7Sij. At this place (Ipswicli) 1 was met l>y .Mr. O.tlton ,ind some other Oentlemen from Newbury- port; partook of a cold collation, and proceeded on to the last mentioned ]ilace, where I was received with nnich respect and parade about 4 o'clock. In the e\ening there were rockets and some oilier fireworks, and every other denioiistratiim to welcome me to the Town. This place is pleas- antly situated on Merrimack River, and appears to lia\e carried on (here and al)o\e) the ship build- ing business to a grt. extent. 'I'he number of souls is estimated at 5', more nicoineiiieiit boats, and a piece of liea\y sand, we cros.sed the Ri\er at Salisbui-y, two miles abo\e, and near that further about — and in three miles came to the line wch divides llie State of Massachusetts from that of New Hampshire. Here I took lea\e of Mr. I faltoii .ind many other private < leiitlemen who accompanied nic. J'CIUJC l.inR.lRV BU/LD/XG 557 Nathaniel Trac)' was living- at this time on the S])encer- Pierce farm in Newbury, under a lease from 'Hiomas kussell, of Boston, "to Patrick l^racy and his son Nathaniel." Two years after the death of his father, Nathaniel Tracy sold and exchanged the brick house and land on 1^'ish Street for the old stone house and farm where he was then residing with his family. The deed making this conveyance is dated April 6, 1 79 1, and is recorded in the registry of deeds at Salem, book 153, leaf 210. It is impossible within the limits of this sketch to give more than a brief outline of the life and character of Nathan- iel Tracy. He was the oldest son of Patrick and Hannah (Gookin) Tracy. He was born Aug. 11, 1751, and married P'eb. 28, 1775, by Rev. William Whitwell, of Marblehead, to Mary Lee, daughter of Colonel Jeremiah Lee, a wealthy merchant of that town, who owned and occupied an elegant house, which was undoubtedly at that time the finest residence in New England. His children by this marriage were : — Hannah, born Jan. 25. iJjCi: married William Ra\m()nd Lee. Martha Lee. born July 6. 1777: died Nov. 10. 177N. Patrick, baptized by Rev. Thomas Cary Feb. 27. i 7S0. Nathaniel, baptized June 27. 1781 : died previous to 1788. Jeremiah Lee. baptized Dec. 21. 1782; died Jan. 16. 1S44. Alarv. born in Cambridge. Feb. 25, 1786: died Dec. 23. 1809. Louisa Lee. born in Cambridge, April 25. 1787; died May 15. 1869. Nathaniel, born Nov. 25, 1788. Nathaniel, born March 18. 1790. Martha Abbv Lee. born Sept. 27, 1791. Helen, born Jan. 22, i 79O : died Nov. 10. 1865. Nathaniel Trac}' died Sept. 19, i 796, aged forty-five. He was buried in the Old Hill bur)ing ground, Newburyport, near Pond Street, between Greenleaf and Hill streets! P^or man}' )'ears his grave remained unmarked. Within the memory of many persons now living, a solid and substantial tombstone, inscribed with his name, age, and date of death, has been erected by some of his descendants. 558 OULD A'EWBURY His wile. Mary (Lee) Tracv. died Oct. 31, 18 19, ai;e(l 66. She was Iniricd in tlic New I Mil l)Ui-_\iiii; ^Tound. ( )nc son, three dau,i;iitci-s, and two grandchildren are interred in the same lot. In the immediate \icinit_\- are the graves of Caleb dishing, the statesman, and llannah V. (lOnId, the poetess. Nathaniel TracN^'s j^ortrait hangs in the brick building on State Street where he lived for man)- years. It has been reproduced by the half-tone jjrocess for this sketch. In earl\- life his friends and associates found him a ])leas- ant comixuiion, courteous in manner, and agreeable in con\er- sation. He was tall, robust, and comely, wealthy, witt\', and patriotic. He was given to hospitality, and his generosity was unstinted. During the Rex'olutionary War he contrib- uted overs 160, 000 from his own prixate resources for the sujiport of the government. For some years previous to his death, he and his famih' were members of the First Parish in Newbury and attended public worship there. His widow, Mary (Lee) Tracy, as administratrix, sold at auction Dec. 11, 1797, a pew in the First Parish meeting-house that belonged to his estate. Thomas Russell, who came into })ossession of the Tracy House April 6, 1791, was at that time an eminent Boston merchant. He died in 1796, at the age of fift}--si.\. He was engaged in mercantile pursuits before the War of the Revolu- tion. As early as 1786, he sent his first ship from the United States to Russia and ultimately developed a profitable trade with that country. He was a delegate from Boston in the conxention held in Massachusetts for the adoption of the Federal constitution in 1788; and afterward was president of the Boston C'lKunber of Connnerce, and also representatix'c to the General Couit for sexeral successi\e \ears. He was exadentl}' a man of wealth, ready to aid and assist his friend, Nathaniel Tracw and full\- competent to deal with the diniculties of the situalion. Two tlaws after the con- veyance of the Trac)' house to Mi. Russell, In the deed of exchange {■)reviousl\' alluded to, a c|uitclaim ([k:c([ from Thomas Russell, undoubtedK- wiitten b\' lohn Lowell, l'",s(.|., who toiik the acknowledgnu-nt, con\e\ed all Ids \^'vA^\ and JTB/./C L/liRARY hT/LD/XG 559 title to iantl formerl}' bcloni^ini;" to llic estate of Patrick Tracy, "on State Street in said Xe\vbur)]i(>it and the build- ings thereon " to Timothy Dexter (Mssex Deeds, book 153, leaf 75). ( )n the same day Dudley Atkins Tyng, adminis- trator, with the will annexed, of the estate of Patrick Tracy, gave a quitclaim deed of the same propert}' to Timothy Dexter (book 153, leaf 76). Real estate in Newbury])ort was ver}' much depreciated at that time ; and, taking adxantage of this circumstance, Dexter bought several pieces of property that he afterward disposed of at a good profit. He retained possession of the Tracy house until April 9, 1796. when he sold it to John Greenleaf, and removed to Chester, X. H. (book 159, leaf 273). Ac- knowledgment of this deed was made in Connecticut, where Nancy Dexter, who married Abraham Bishop, was then lixing. John Greenleaf sold the house and land. March 11, 1800, to James Prince for S9,ooo (book 166, leaf 220). The property remained in the possession of Mr. Prince for over thirty years. During a portion of this time it was occu- pied as a hotel. Tht Xewbinyport Flcmld \ox May 26, 1807, contains the following announcement : — NEWBURYPORT SUN HOTEL. JACOB COEURN. WITH deference informs his ftiends and the public that he has opened a fpacious HOTEL in flate-ftrect, Newburyport, the for- mer man lion of the late Hon. Nathaniel Tracy, iitq. and where Mr. J.Hmes Prince laft refided. Having at confiderable pains and ex- penfe put the above in a fituation fuited to ac- commodate Gentlemen, he aflures them with confidence that they will 6nd pvery convenience, and an unremitting attention to enfure the fa- vors of the Traveller, i;^ Good horfes and carriajres to be had at all hours. 560 OULD XIAVBCKY Sonic years later, tlie liouse. witli tlie stable, garden, and household furniture, was ad\-ertised for sale at public auction. The full and accurate description of the propert)' gixen in the columns of the Essex l\Ci![istci\ a newspaper published in Salem, Mass., is interesting;' and worthx' of preservation. It can also be ciuoted as exidence of the fact that Mr. Prince lived in the house Dec. 3, 1814. The statement that the house was "built by Nathaniel Tracy" is an error and shoukl be made to read, " built by Patrick Tracy for Nathaniel Trac}'." With this exception the description is historicall)' correct. To be sold at piihlii auction on Tucsdav the zjt/i of Dec. inst. on the premises. IIIA r beautiful situation on State street. Newburyport. built l)v X. villi. Tkacv, Esq and now occupied by the subscriber, containing- al)out I acre and 1-4 of Land, with an elegant garden laid out in scjuares trimmed witli Ijo.x. £~= which contains the choicest kind of fruit trees: 90 bushels of .St. Micliael. Bergamot. Oardenelle and other Pears, and about 10 bushels of early summer Apples. 10 bushels of russett and other winter Apples were raised in it the present year — about 30 bushels of English black and white heart and mazzard Cherries, and a great variety of Plumbs !^ Peaches annually — the nett income of the garden the present year is S200. The Mansion House is 54 feet by 50, and slated, brick kitchen 30 feet by 24. rain water cistern containing 25 hhds. and a copper boiler set in brick which contains 2 1-2 barrels, cellar under the whole house, and a lower cellar where tlie heat is nearly stationary in all weather. The Stable is "c; feet by 35 — the wood iiouse 50 feet by 23 — the shed 45 feet liv 22. Also at the same time about 500 bbls old V'inegar. and some elegant Furniture such as 2 Wilton Carpets 72 yards each, yellow damask bed and window curtains, .sophas and chairs covered with same. India card tables, glass chandelier, and 5 elegant looking glasses suitable for the house. Sale at i 1 clock, wlien the tondit/o/is lo/ll />e made hnoi-.m. JAMl'.S I'KIXCE. Xewi)uryport. Dec. 3. 1.S14. I'()r some reason unknown, the sale of the propertx was not completed; and Mr. Prince was still li\iiiu in the house PCBLIC L/HRARV h'('/LD/.\c; 561 when General La h'ayette and his suite visited Xewburyjioi-t in the month of August, 1824. The same apartments tliat Washington occupied in 1789 were offered to the commit- tee appointed to make arrangements for the reception of La Fayette, and were promptly accepted and prepared for his accommodation. Mr. Prince Stetson, proprietor of Wolfe tavern, then located on the corner of State and Temple streets, had charge of the tables and i:)rovided the meals for the town's distinguished guests. His son Charles, then a lad of thirteen, acted as valct dc cJiamhrc to the general. Among the citizens who called to pay their respects to La Fayette, was an old companion in arms, Daniel Foster, P^sq., who held the rank of sergeant in La Fayette's select corps of infantry during the War of the Revolution. James Prince was a son of Rev. Joseph Prince,* the blind preacher, who was buried in the vault, with Whitefield, under the pulpit in the First Presbyterian meeting-house. He was an active and energetic business man and rose to affluence by his own industry. He was chosen warden of St. Paul's Church in 1798, 1799. and 1800, and was a vestryman from 1 801 to 1803, inclusive, hi early life he was a zealous poli- tician, and at one time was collector of customs at Newbury- port. He died May 1 1, 1830, in the seventy-fifth year of his age, and was buried in the New Hill burying ground. June 16, 1830, Sarah Doane, wife of Samuel D. Doane, of Boston, Ann L. Jewett, wife of Nathaniel Jewett, of Washington City, Mary L. Prince, singlewoman, William H. Prince and James Prince, heirs and devisees of James Prince, sold the house and land on State Street, Newburyport, belonging to the estate of the said James Prince, to William Manning for the sum of S5,ooo (Fssex Deeds, book 257, leaf 91). *Rev. Joseph Prince was bom in Boston April 12, 1723. When only fourteen years of age he met with a serious accident which impaired his sight and compelled him to relinquish his studies. He married, July 30, 1747, Sarah, daughter of Capt. Ezekiel Carpenter of Attleborough, Mass. He died Jan. 15, 1791, aged sixty-eight, leaving a widow and seven sons. Rev. John Murray, then pastor of the First Presbyterian Society, Newburyport, delivered a sermon, Jan. 23, i7^ '''^53- Charles, born Aug. 15, 1782: father of James Russell Lowell, the poet and minister plenipotentiary from the United States to the Court of St. James. Elizabeth Cutts, born Dec. 8. 1783; died 1864. Mary, born May 31. 1786: died 1789. Judge Lowell died in Roxlnuy May 6, 1802, and his widow died Sept. 15, 1816. After the house built by Judge Lowell, on High Street, in Newburyport, was sold to Patrick Tracy, it remained in his possession for many years and was occupied by his son, John Tracy, who was born April 19, 1753, and married Margaret Laughton* May 2, 1775. The children of John and Mar- garet Tracy were : — John, born March 4, 1776: died Nov. 27, 1781. Henry Laughton. born Sept. i. 1777: died May 26, 1797. Nathaniel, born June 19. 1779; lost at sea in the year 1800, aged 21. Margaret, born March 22. 1781 : died June 25. 1843. Mary, born March 22, 1781 ; married Christopher Bassett. Henrietta, born June 28. 1782: married William P. Johnson. John, born Jan. 2. i 7S6 ; died in Matanzas Aug. 28. 1822. Elizabeth Farris, born Dec. 14, 1791 ; married Henry Loring. of Boston: she died Aug. 15. 1825 : he died June i i. 1866. Catherine De Blois, born Nov. 12. 1794: married George Titcomb in May, 1819; he died Dec. 4, 1863: she died March 13, 1875. In November, 1782, Marquis De Chastellux, one of the forty members of the French Academy, and major-general in the French Army under the Count de Rochambeau, travelling through New England, visited Newburyport. He had with him for companions " Messieurs Lynch, de Montes- quieu, the Baron de Taleyrand and M. de Vaudreuil." In the second volume of his Travels (page 240), is the following account of his reception by Mr. John Tracy : — The road from Portsmouth to Newbury passes through a barren country. Hampton is the only township you meet with, and there are * .Margaret Laughton was born May 12, 1755, and died Xov. 9. 1S06. L O WELL-JO HXSOX HO USE 5 § ' not such handsome houses there as at ("xreenhmd. ... It was two o'clock when we reached Merimack ferry, and from the shore we saw the open- ings of the harbour, the channel of which passes near the northern extremity of Plumb Island, on which is a small fort, with a few cannon and mortars. . . . After passing the ferry in little flat boats, which held only five horses each, we went to Mr. Davenport's inn. where we found a good dinner ready. I had letters from Mr. Wentworth to Mr. John Tracy, the most considerable merchant in the place : but, before 1 had time to send them, he had heard of my arrival, and. as I was arising from table, entered the room, and very politely invited me to pass the evening with him. He was accompanied by a Colonel, whose name is too difficult for me to write, having never been able to catch the manner of pronouncing it : but it was something like Wigsteps.* This Colonel remained with me till Mr. Tracy finished his business, when he came with two handsome carriages, well equipped, and conducted me and my Aide de Campe to his country house. This house stands a mile from the town in a verv beautiful situation : but of this I could myself form no judgment, as it was already night. I went, however, by moonlight, to see the garden, which is composed of different terraces. There is likewise a hot house and a number of young trees. The house is very handsome and well finished, and everything breathes that air of magnifi- cence, accompanied with simplicity, which is only to be found amongst merchants. The evening passed rapidly by the aid of agreeable conver- sation and a few glasses of punch. The ladies we found assembled were Mrs. Tracv. her two sisters, and their cousin. Miss Lee. Mrs. Tracy has an agreeable and a sensible countenance, and her manners correspond with her appearance. At ten o'clock an excellent supper was served ; we drank good wine. Miss Lee sung, and prevailed on Messieurs de Vaudreuil and Taleyrand to sing also: towards midnight the ladies withdrew, but we continued drinking Maderia and Xery. Mr. Tracy, according to the custom of the country, offered us pipes, which were accepted by M. de Taleyrand, and M. de Montesquieu, the consequence of which was that they became intoxicated and were led home, where they were happy to get to bed. As to myself, I remained perfectly cool, and continued to converse on trade and politics with Mr. Tracy, who interested me greatly with an account of all the vicissitudes of his fortune since the beginning of the war. ... I left Newburyport the 13"' at ten in the morning, and often stopped before I lost sight of this prettv little town, for I had great pleasure in enjoying the different aspects it presents. It is in general well built, and is daily increasing in new buildings. The ware houses of the merchants, which are near their own homes, serve by way of ornament, and in point of architecture resemble not a little our own large greenhouses. * Probably Colonel KcUvard Wigglesworth. 582 Ori.D iVElVBURY This visit of Marquis do Chastcllux, in comixui)' with Baron de Taleyrand, is often relied upon to prove the statement that Talleyrand, the distinguished minister of foreign affairs in France, was at one time in Newburyport. But there is abundant evidence to show^ that Bart)n de Tale)rand and Prince de Talleyrand are not one and the same person. The latter was an ordained priest in the Roman Catholic Church, and in 1788 was made bishop of Autun. At the time Baron de Taleyrand was in Newburyport, Charles Maurice de Talle3'rand. then Abbe de Perigord, and afterward Prince ,/^s\^. HALL AND STAIRCASE. de Talleyrand, was in h'rance attending to his duties as agent-general of the clergy, representing their interests with the government in all that related to the revenue and cxjiend- iture of the Church and the maintenance of its privileges. He did not enter political life until 1792, and was soon com- ])elled to seek safety beyond the sea. He arrived in America early in 1794, and remained in this country until the mitldle of 1796. He passed most of his time in New \'ork and Philadeljjhia. He visited Boston, howexer, and went as tar PLast as Machias ; but there is no exidence that he was e\er in Newbur}port. LOWELL-JOIINSOX HOUSE 5^3 The ]-5anMi tie Taleyrand, who accompanied Marquis de Chastelhix in his travels thnnigh New England, was undoubtedly Count Bozon de Perigord, who came to America in 1782 with the Prince de Broglie in the French frigate "Aigle." He appears to have had several titles and was sometimes designated Bozon, or de Talleyrand, or de Peri- gord. Drake in " Landmarks of Boston," page 435, says that he was a brother of Prince Talleyrand, but of this fact there is no positive proof. M. de Montesquieu was a grandson of the author of the "Spirit of the Laws." He was an aid-de-camp to Marquis de Chastelhix in 1780 and 1781, and afterward went to P^ ranee, returning to America in 1782 in the P^rench frigate " Gloire." Viscount de Vaudreuil was a passenger in the same ship. Monsieur Lynch was born in London in 1755 of Catholic parents, who sent him to France to be educated. He was present at the siege of Yorktown. After his return to Paris, he was made a colonel in the P^-ench Army, and in P^b- ruary, 1792, marcchal dc camp, and afterward lieutenant- general. P^or other interesting facts relating to these distinguished visitors, the reader is referred to the second volume of " The P^rench in America during the War of Independence," by Thomas Balch, translated by Edwin Swift Balch and P:isie Willing Balch, and published in Philadelphia in 1895. Mr. John Tracy was generous and liberal in the expenditure of his wealth, and entertained many other distinguished guests in his hospitable home. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the colonial government during the Revolutionary War and served in General Sullivan's Army in Rhode Island as aide- de-camp to General Glover. He was chosen vestryman of St. Paul's Church, Newburyport, in 1777, and was annually re-elected to that office until his death, March i, 181 5, with the exception of four years, from 1780 to 1783, inclusive, when he served as senior warden. He was a member of St. John's Lodge of P^ree and Accepted Masons, in good and regular standing, from 1781 to 1803, when he was made an honorary member. 584 OUI.D XEWBURY In carl)' life he was prosperous ; but, nieetiuL;" with re\-erse.s at the close of the war, he was obliged to retrench in his household expenses, and, after the death of his wife, some years later, he joined with his children in a deed of sale conveying the house in which he lived to Eleazer Johnson. His father, Patrick Tracy, by his will, dated Oct. 16, 1788, and proved April 3, 1789, gave to his grandchildren, " Henry Laughton Tracy, Nathaniel Tracy, Margaret Tracy, Mary Tracy, Henrietta Tracy, and John Tracy, the children of my son John, and to such other child or children as may be here- after born to him in lawful wedlock, the dwelling-house in which he, my said son John, now lixes, together with all my land under and adjoining the same, and all the buildings thereon, all which I purchased of John Lowell, Esq." He appointed his son John and his son's wife, Margaret, trustees, to hold the property, they not being required to account to their children for the income. John Tracy gave a quitclaim deed oi this property, Sept. 15, 1S09, to Eleazer Johnson, which is recorded in the Essex registry of deeds, book 188, leaf 126. John Tracy, Jr., Margaret Tracy, Mary Tracy, William I'. Johnson, and Henrietta Johnson, his wife, the same day con- veyed to Eleazer Johnson propert)' described as "being the same which was conveyed our late grandfather, Patrick Trac}', by John Lowell, PLsq., by deed dated the twenty-first day of October, A.D. 1778 " (book 188, leaf 126). William P'arris, of Newburyport (guardian of l^lizabeth Earris Tracy and Catharine Deblois Tracy, children of John Tracy) by virtue of a resolve of the General Court, conveyed two-sixths of aboN'c estate to l-^leazei" Johnson Se})t. 5, iSii (book 194, leaf 258). l'21eazer |ohnson was born in 1773 and maniecl Sarah Newman in 1797. He was engaged in commercial pursuits, and was at one time i:)resident of the Mcchanicks' Hank, New- buryport. He died in 1847, and left only one son, Richard Johnson, who was boi'u in 1815. Richard lohnson mairied Mrs. I'"anin' H. \\ oodburx'. ot LOIVELL-JOIINSON HOUSE 585 Beverly, daughter of Dr. Nathaniel Bradstreet, of New- buryport. He died in 1872, leaving two children, Caroline Elizabeth and William Richard Johnson, both now living in the house designated in this sketch as the Lowell-Johnson house. NEWBURYPORT MARINE SOCIETY. On the fifth day of November, 1772, the following persons, viz : — Captains Thomas Jones, William Wyer. Benjamin Rogers. Samuel Newhall, Michael Hodge, and Edward Wigglesworth, met together at the house of Captain Benjamin Rogers, in Newburyport. New PLngland, and agreed to deposit in the hands of Captain Michael Hodge one guinea of the value of twenty-eight shillings, each person, for commenc- ing a fund for charitable purposes to the unfortunate of the Society. On the thirteenth day of the same month the number of members had increased to tw^enty, and by-laws were adopted providing that only shipmasters, or those who had served in that capacity, should be elected to membership ; that a penalty should be exacted for non-attendance at the regular monthly meetings ; that members, or the widows and chil- dren of members, should receive pecuniary assistance, if needed ; and that observations at sea relating to the varia- tions of the needle, soundings, courses and distances, rocks and shoals, and kindred subjects, should be communicated to the society for the benefit and seciu-ity of navigation. The first few meetings of the new organization were held at a private house; but Dec. 2, 1772, it was "Voted that the Society shall meet at Captain William Davenjjort's or any other Public House as shall be thought convenient by the Society until the twenty-first day of March next." Subse- quent votes prove conclusively that for twenty-five years or more the society was accustomed to meet at the Wolfe Tavern, then under the management of William Davenport, and afterward kept by Anthony and Moses Davenport. It is probable that the meetings of these old ship-masters were enlivened by bowls of puncli and mugs of hard cider, as was the custom in fraternal gatherings in those patriotic NEWBURYPORT MARIXE SOCIETY 587 days. There is no mention of this fact upon the records of the society ; but the history of a similar organization in Boston reveals various interesting items like the following : " Punch this evening, Room, candles, and attendance ^3. 9-s\," and a few months later a bill for " 20 suppers, 5 Bot. wine, 2 do cyder and i qt brandy " gives evidence of a more elaborate entertainment. The monthly charges were probably adjusted fairly and equitably in accordance with a vote " that at each meeting, the Room, Fireing, and Candles be paid by the Society, and the Liquors be paid by the members present at each meeting." The Salem Marine Society was the second organization of the kind in America, and its members were accustomed to assemble at the old Sun Tavern in Salem. Its records show that refreshments of a solid as well as a licjuid nature were occasionally, if not regularly, provided. The Newburyport society was evidently organized upon the same general plan and governed by rules and regulations similar to those adopted by the Marine societies of Boston and Salem. Nov. 13, 1772, a letter of thanks was addressed to Capt. Bartholomew Putnam of Salem " for his kindness in procuring a copy of the Marine laws at Salem, and also for a copy of the by-laws " ; and subsequent communications show that all three societies were united and active in their efforts to foster and encourage commerce and render navigation along the coast less difficult and dangerous. At the second meeting of the Newburyport society it was " Voted that all expenses at meetings shall be paid by each member individually and not by the society " ; and Dec. 2, 1772, a committee was appointed to apply to the General Court for an act of incorporation. For some reason unknown this petition, presented in behalf of the society, was not granted, and another committee was appointed for the same purpose in 1773, and still another in 1777. The last com- mittee, consisting of Captain Michael Hodge, Captain James Hudson, and Captain William Coombs, were successful in their efforts, and the following act of incorporation was granted (3ct. 13, 1777. 588 OULD XEIVBUNY "An act to incorporate James Hudson, and others therein named, into a society by the name of the Marine Society at Newburyport, in the County of Essex, in the State of Massachusetts (Bay) in New England. Whereas, a considerable number of persons who are or have been masters of shijjs, or other vessels, have for several years past associated themselves in the town of Newburyport. and the principal end of said Society being to improve the knowledge of this coast, by the several members, upon their arrival from sea, communicating their observations, inwards and outwards, of the variation of the needle, soundings, courses, distances, and all other remarkable things about it, in writing, to be lodged with the Society, for making the navigation more safe ; and also to relieve one another and their families, in poverty, or other adverse accidents of life, which they are more particularly liable to, and have for this end raised a considerable common stock ; and the said persons asso- ciated, as aforesaid, finding themselves under difficulties and discourage- ments, in carrying on the said designs without an incorporation : and James Hudson, and others of them having petitioned the great and General Court of this State, in their present session, to be incorporated for the purposes aforesaid : and their intention appearing laudable and deserving encouragement, — " Be it enacted by tlie Council and House of Representatii'cs in General Court assembled, and by t/ie authority of tlie same, " Section i. That James Hudson. Thomas Jones, Jonathan Parsons, William Friend, Samuel Newhall, Michael Hodge, David Coats, William Stickney, William Noyes, Joseph Stanwood, Moses Hale, William P. Johnson, Nathaniel Nowell, Joseph Noyes, Henry Friend, Joseph New- man, Nicholas Johnson, Moses Brown, James Johnson. William Wyer, William Nichols, the members of said Society, be incorporated and made a body politic for the purposes aforesaid, by the name of the Marine Society at Newburyport in New England: and that they, their associates and successors, have perpetual succession by said name, and have a power of making by-laws, for the preservation and advancement of said body, not repugnant to the laws of the government, with penalty, — either of disfranchisement from said Society or of a mulct not exceeding twenty shillings, — or without penaltys. as it shall seem most meet ; and have leave likewise to make and appoint their common seal ; and be liable to be sued, and enable to sue, and make purchases, and take donations of real and personal estate for tlic jjurposes aforesaid," etc. Captain William Davenport, the landlord of the Wolfe Tavern, died Sept. 2, 1773. In the records of the society is the following announcement : " No meeting this month by reason of M'' Daven):)ort laying Dead in the House." After Anthon)', the son of William Dax'cnport. had been NEIVBUKYPORT MARnVE SOCIETY 589 duly licensed inn-keeper, the society again voted to hold its meetings at the tavern. Gradually its entertainments be- came more expensive and elaborate. Oct. 31, 1782, the so- ciety "voted to provide a supper for the next annual meet- ing." Oct. 27, 1785, the same vote was repeated ; but, Nov. 30, I J'^6, it was " voted to provide a dinner for the next an- nual meeting, instead of a supper as has been customary." And twenty years later, after the tavern had passed into the hands of Prince Stetson, the Ncivbiiryport Herald, under the date of Dec. 1 1, 1807, makes the following announcement : — The Newburyport Marine Society celebrated their anniversary yes- terday at the Gen. Wolfe tavern, and partook of a well provided dinner prepared by Mr. Stetson. Captain Jonathan Parsons, Jr., was the first president of the society. He resigned, however, after one week of ser- vice, and Captain James Hudson was chosen to fill the vacancy Nov. 20, 1772. Captain Hudson was annually re-elected to that office until Nov. 29, 1781. In September, 1774, the inhabitants of Newbury and New- buryport were active and earnest in their efforts to aid and encourage the American colonies in the approaching struggle with Great Britain. Among the independent companies formed was one by the Marine Society of Newburyport, then but two years old, and consisting of seventy-six persons, who formed themselves into a Company, called the Independent Marine Company, with Capt. James Hudson as their Com- mander. Their colors were expressive not only of their profession, but combined the insignia of the State, and their sentiments in regard to war ; the standard being a blue anchor on a red field, supported by a pine tree and olive branch. One excellent rule they adopted, viz : — that every neglect of duty by an officer should be subject to double the penalty imposed on a private. — History of Neivbioy port, by Mrs. E. Vale Sinith, page 82. In 1779, a committee appointed by the society made a survey of some dangerous ledges in the vicinity of Great Boar's Head, and published in nautical books and charts the ArEWBURYrORT MARIA'E SOCIETY 591 information they had obtained for the benefit of navigators along the coast. In 1783, they erected two beacons on Plum Island to serve as landmarks for the guidance of vessels during the day ; and they also provided, with the assistance of some of the Newburyport merchants, for the maintenance of lights at night until light-houses were erected at the expense of the national government. In 1787, the society erected two small houses on Plum Island to shelter shipwrecked mariners and protect them from dangers to which they were exposed. The houses were destroyed after some years of service ; but more com- modious and substantial ones have recently been erected by the United States government and placed under the care and control of life-saving crews, who are always ready to render assistance in case of danger or disaster. The Newburyport Marine Society has invested funds to the amount of $50,000, and also owns a brick building on State Street nearly opposite Middle Street. In the second story of this building the regular business meetings of the Society are held, and the third story is occupied with a col- lection of curiosities gathered from all parts of the world. In this ethnological and zoological collection are household utensils illustrating the home life of the early New Eng- land settlers, old portraits and Revolutionary relics, coins and medals, stuffed birds, fish and reptiles, manuscripts, log- books and nautical journals, marine paintings and models of naval architecture, " bric-a-brac and curios " from Manila, China, and Japan, all arranged in cases or displayed upon the walls. Visitors are admitted free from ten to twelve o'clock A. M., and from two to four p. m. daily, Sundays excepted. The collection is not large and no attempt has been made at classification ; but, if those who have articles of historic value would present them to the society, — especially paint- ings, engravings, and models of ships, and, in fact, everything that relates to commercial life and progress, — the gifts would 592 OULD iXEWBURY be gratefully received and the collection itself would be made still more interesting and attractive. For more than a century the society was in a prosperous and flourishing condition, but the membership is now con- stantly decreasing. The decline in American commerce has very materially reduced the number of ship-masters who are eligible and qualified to take the places made vacant by death and other causes. But the society still continues its chari- table work, and annually distributes the income from its invested funds for the benefit and support of those mem- bers, and widows of deceased members, who may be sick or destitute. ESSEX-MERRIMACK BRIDGE. In the year 1790, travelers on their way from Newbury and Newbiiryport to Salisbury and Amesbury crossed the Merrimack River by March's ferry at the foot of State Street, by Hook's ferry at the foot of Moulton's hill, oppo- site the mouth of the Powow River, or by Webster and Swasey's ferry in the vicinity of Bartlett's cove. The ferry at Carr's island, long before that date, had fallen into disuse and was practically abandoned on account of its remoteness from the regular line of travel. In 1 79 1, active efforts were made by some of the inhabi- tants of Newbury and Newburyport to organize a company for the purpose of building a bridge from Newbury to Deer Island and thence to the Salisbury shore. The following subscription paper was circulated and signed by the persons whose names are affixed : — Newbury Port, May 30, 1791. Whereas a bridge over the Merrimack River from the land of the Hon. Jonathan Greenleaf in Newbury to Deer Island, and from said Island to Sahsbury, would be of very extensive utiHty by affording a safe Conveyance to Carriages, Teams, and Travellers at all Seasons of the year and at all Times of the Tide. We, the subscribers, do agree that as soon as a convenient Number of Persons have subscribed to this, or a similar writing, we will present a petition to the Hon'ble General Court of the Commonwealth of Mas- sachusetts, praying for an act incorporating into a body politic the sub- scribers to said W'riting with liberty to build such bridge and a right to demand a toll equal to that received at Maiden bridge and on like terms ; and if such an Act shall be obtained, then we severally agree each with the others that we will hold in the said bridge the several shares set against our respective names, the whole in two hundred shares being divided, and that we will pay such sums of money at such 594 OULD NEWBURY times and in such manners as, by the said proposed Corporation, shall be directed and required. S. L. Tyler, 20 shares ; Dudley A. Tyng, 1 5 shares ; Stephen Hooper for Miss Sarah Roberts, Nath'l Carter, Jr., Tristram Dalton, Timothy Dexter, Edward Rand, George Searle, Joseph Tyler, and M. Brown, each 10 shares. Andrew and B. Frothingham. Thomas Cary, and W. Combs, each 6 shares. W'" Wyer and Stephen Hooper as guardian to Thomas W. Hooper, each 5 shares. Richard Pike, Joseph Swazey, E. Sawyer, James Prince, Thomas White and Sam. Bailey, each 4 shares. Joshua Toppan. Joseph Cutter and Hannah Dummer, each 3 shares. Elizabeth Roberts, VV"' Teel, W"' H. Prout, W'" H. Prout, Jr., Tristram Coffin, Steph. Cross, Nathaniel Healy, True Kimball, Samuel Gerrish and Jacob Brown, each 2 shares. Moses Hoyt, Daniel Horton, Rob't Long, W'" Ingalls, John Mycall, S. Emerson, E. Wheelwright. E. Titcomb, J. Burroughs, Jere Pearson and Jon. Marsh, each one share. To meet the preliminary expenses, an assessment of six shillings per share was levied upon the stockholders of the corporation and made payable July i i, 1791. Coffin, in his History of Newbury, under date of June i, 1 79 1, says: "Nathaniel Carter of Newburyport and eight others petitioned for liberty to build a bridge over Merrimac river at Deer Island." A map of the river and the islands in the immediate vicinity of the proposed bridge was prepared and j^resented with the petition to the General Court. On the opposite page the reader will find a copy of this map taken from the original drawing now on file at the State House in Boston. Nov. 4, 1 79 1, the town of Newbury voted to oppose the construction of the bridge, and November 30 reconsidered that vote; and again, December 15, reconsidered their recon- sideration, and instructed their representatives to oppose the incorporation of the company. In January, 1792, the town sent a long remonstrance to the Cieneral Court objecting to the pr()i)osed obstruction of the navigation of the river. Notwithstanding this strong opposition, an act of incorpora- tion was passed I'Y'b. 24, 1792, with an additional act, June ESSEX-MERRlMACk' BRIDGE 595 22, 1792, modifying the restrictions and limitations of the first act, as regards length of arch, height above high water mark, width of draw, etc. New and original plans submitted by Timothy Palmer, of Newburyport, a skilful and ingenious mechanic of that time, were accepted by the stockholders of the corporation and the work of construction, under the direc- tion of William Coombs, was promptly executed and the bridge opened to the public Nov. 26, 1792. Salishary LartAing ■^o'''' ,1"^ ,^^. '^^. »To i„tc£ Recks Scale. J 2. r^^ds / of Cutting Moody J Xcuiluiryport. March 8, 1774, the town of Newburyport voted, on peti- tion of Captain Ralph Cross and others, to level the ground in the vicinity of I'"rog I'ond in order to render it ax'ailable as a training-field; and, March 9, 1779, Nathaniel Tracy was authorized to plant shade trees where the old rope-walk formerly stood. May 16, 1781, Stephen Sewall, Stephen BAKTLET MALL 613 Hooper, Mary Hooper, Nathaniel Tracy, Nathaniel Atkinson, Benjamin Greenleaf, Enoch, Joshua, and Richard Titcomb, and the heirs of the late Benjamin Frothingham, donated the land needed to make a four-rod way from High Street to Merrimac Street between State and Market streets ; and March 28, 1782, Green Street, as laid out, was accepted and the plan of the same ordered to be placed on record. Nearly a century previous to the laying out of Green Street, a school-house was erected in the vicinity of Frog Pond, and children were there instructed in reading, in writing, and in arithmetic, l^ver since that date the pursuit of knowledge and the training and discipline of the mind have been prominently identified and intimately associated with that neighborhood. March 11, 171 2, the town of Newbury "Voted that a house for ye keeping ye Gramer school in, shall be bilt and set up near }^e middle waye, between ye old school house & ye little old house now standing by ye way near frog Pond and that the Gramer schoole master shall have fifteen pounds in money and fifteen pounds as money for keeping the Schollers to learn Lattin & to write & cypher for the year ensuing." Soon after the incorporation of the town of Newburyport in 1764 a committee was appointed to provide suitable accom- modations "for one Grammer School not far from the Rev"^ Mr. Lowell's meeting House, and two reading, writing & arithmetick schools, one of them adjoining to Queen Street, Ordua Lane, or Bartlett's Lane, preferring the latter, and the other adjoining or near Cross Street or Elbow Lane." In compliance with this vote, a building for the north school was erected on Bartlett's lane, now Winter Street, and there for more than fifty years the younger pupils of the town were taught to read, to write, and to cipher,* At a legal meeting of the inhabitants of Newburyport, held *IMay 13, 1764, the tov\ii of Newburyport purchased of John Harbut, blockmaker, about nine and one-lialf rods of laud, bounded on the southeast by Bartlett's lane, on the southwest by land of John Lewis, on the northwest by land of Hezekiah Collins and Josiah Titcomb, and on the northeast by land of the grantor (Essex Deeds, book 115, page 258). In the Neivburyport Herald, July 13, 1821, the town of Newburyport advertised several lots 6l4 OULD NEWBURY March 9, 1 790, it was " voted to build a new school house for the north school to be kept in ; voted that the said school house be placed somewhere near the Hay scale on the Town land ; voted that the said school house be forty feet long and thirty feet wide ; voted that the selectmen with the school master be a committee, to build said school house at the Town's expense." The new building was located at the northwesterly end of Frog Pond. It was a wooden structure of modest dimen- sions, but still sufficiently commodious to meet the wants and requirements of the community at that time. It soon, how- ever, became overcrowded and was ultimately removed to make room for another building. May 30, 1823, the selectmen of Newburyport were author- ized " to build a new school house, — instead of making an addition to the school house at the western end of the mall, — on the site where the school house now stands, or near the same, at an expense not to exceed eighteen hundred dollars exclusive of the old school house and the powder house." Plans were prepared, materials purchased, and the work of construction was commenced without delay. The school- house was built of brick and was ready for use in October of that year. The Lancastrian or monitorial system of educa- tion was then exceedingly popular, and under the supervision of Master Coolidge that plan or method of teaching was adopted and maintained in the school for several years ; but the results were not satisfactory, and a thorough reorganiza- tion became necessary. Changes were made, not only in the method of instruction, but in the classification and grading of the school. Under the direction of experienced teachers, it was soon brought to a high standard of efficiency, and con- of land for salu, and among them " a lot of land on Winter Street, contaiiiinj; about nine .iiid one- half rods, with a building formerly occupied for a school house." Dec. 17, 1821, the town of Newburyport gave a deed of the above described land, with the building thereon, to Andrew Wilson (book 232, page 137). In 1826 Andrew Wilson gave a mortgage deed to Charles Marstes of house and land on a way "formerly called Hartlett's Lane, now Winter Street" (book i\\, page 113); and April 30, 1S27, he conveyed the equity in this jiroperty to Charles Marstes (book 244, page 227). March 22, 1S33, Charles Marstes sold the house and land to Moses Dodge (book 270, page 190). The building is still standing. It has been occupied as a dwelling-house since 1826. BARTLET MALL 6iS tinued in a flourishing condition until the school-house was destroyed by fire in 1868. The Latin-Grammar school-house, at the southeasterly end of Frog Pond, was built in the year 1 796 by order of the town of Newburyport. At a meeting legally called for that purpose on the fourth day of April, 1796, the town "voted to build a new school house of brick nearly of the same SCHOOL-HOUSE AT NORTHWESTERLY END OF BARTLET MALL. dimensions of the north school house, and that the same be set at the southerly end of the Mall, on the towns land near the Frog Pond." In this building, Michael Walsh, author of Walsh's Arith- metic, taught Latin and Greek from 1796 to 1803. July 6, 1809, the town of Newburyport "voted to put a second story on the Brick school house in the Mall to accommodate the Centre school." The addition of this second story, when completed and 6i6 OULD NEWBURY viewed from an architectural standpoint, gave rise to con- siderable adverse criticism. The height of the structure, compared with its length and breadth, was especially notice- able. Notwithstanding its defects and peculiarities, the remodeled building was made useful and serviceable for many years. In 1831, it was repaired, and March 5, 1832, it was reopened for the accommodation of the Latin and Eng- lish high school of Newburyport, under the charge of Roger S. Howard* and David P. Page.f Mr. Howard retained his position as instructor in this school until 1845, with the exception of an interval of two or three years, when he was engaged in teaching a private school for girls in the Newburyport Academy. Mr. Page resigned in December, 1844, to take charge of the State Normal School at Albany, N. Y. In 1853, a more convenient and commodious building on the turnpike, now State Street, was provided for the accom- modation of the high school. The two-story brick structure on the mall, left for several months unoccupied, was subse- quently utilized for the instruction and education of younger * Mr. Roger S. Howard was born in Tlietford, Vt., July 20, 1807. He graduated at Dart- mouth College in 1829, and came to Newburyport soon after that date. He married, March 22, 1832, Martha, daughter of Richard and Sarah Pike, of Newbury. She died at Thetford, Vt., Sept. 24, 1S49. Mr. Howard w'as then supervisor of public schools in the State of Vermont. After the death of his wife he removed to Bangor, Me., and for nearly ten years had charge of the Fernale high school tliere. For his second wife he married, Aug. iS, 1S53, Laura Frances, adopted daughter of Mr. I'.ezer Latliam, of Lyme, N. H. She died at Bangor March 27, 1S5.S. Soon after this event Mr. Howard was admitted to orders in the Protestant Episcopal Cluirch, and in 1859 he was rector of St. Stephen's Church in Portland, Me. He married, July 19, i860, Mrs. Charlotte P. Jewett, of that city, for his third wife. He subsequently was settled at Rutland and at Wood.stock, Vt., and at the Church of the Reconciliation in Webster, Mass. On account of failing health he was obliged to resign his pastoral ofifice in the autumn of 1879. He removed to Greenfield, Mass., and there died April 16, iSSo. He left a widow and one daughter by his fir.st wife. The daughter married Hem. Chester C. Conant, judge of the probate court in Franklin County, Massachusetts. She died July 17, 1889. Mrs. Charlotte (Jewett) Howard, widow of Rev. Roger S. Howard, I). D., died in (ireenfield Aug. g, 1S92. t David Perkins Page was born in Epping, N. H., July 4, iSio. He was a student in 1S27 and 1828 at the Hampton Academy. He came to Newbury when eighteen or nineteen years of age, and taught, during the winter, in one of the district schools at Byfield. He afterward opened a private school in a small one-story building that formerly stood on Oreen Street, Newburj'port, where the Church of the Immaculate Conception now stands. Hon. John N. Pike, of Newbury- port, Moses Coleman, Esq., of lioston, and others now lixing, were members of that school. In tlie year 1831, the number of pujiils had increased sut'tlciently to warrant tlie removal of the school to the vestry, or chapel, on Harris Street, adjoining tlie Second Presbyterian meeting-house. There Master Page continued his labors as instructor until he was appointed principal of the Eng- lish department of the Newburyport high school. He married, Dec. 16, 1832, Susan M. Lunt, daughter of Micajah and Sarah ((liddings) Lunt. He died iu .Albany. N. \'., Jan. i, 1848, leaving a widow, two sons, and two daughters. He was buried in Oak Hill cemetery at Newburyport, Mass. BART LET MALL 617 pupils. In this way it was made serviceable for nearly thirty years ; but, at length, on account of needed repairs, it was again vacated. By a vote of the committee on public prop- erty, it was sold at public auction May 30, 1883. A few months later it was taken down ; and now a brick, stamped with the figures 1 796, an old weather vane, and a marble slab, bearing" the inscription " Bartlet Mall 1800," are the only memorials of the ancient structure that remain.* HIGH SCHOOL BUILDING AT SOUTHEASTERLY END OF BARTLET MALL. At the April term of the court of general sessions held in Salem in the year 1 797, suit was brought by the pro- prietors of common land in the town of Newbury against the town of Newburyport, stating that said town in 1771 took land and fiats, called the middle ship-yard, and did not make * For a more particular account of the schools established and maintained at the southeasterly and northwesterly ends of Bartlet Mall, the reader is referred to a series of articles, prepared by Mr. Oliver B. Merrill, published in the Xewbnryport Herald for Dec. 22 and 2q, 1S77, and Feb. 23, 1878. BARTLF.r MALL 619 compensation for the same, and praying that damages might be awarded. Nathan Dane was counsel for the petitioners and Theophilus Bradbury was counsel for the town of Newburyport. This petition was dismissed (court records, page 25). At the October term of the year 1799, another suit was brought, in which the proprietors of common land in New- bury pray that the way about Frog Pond, laid out in 1 766, and the way at the middle ship-yard, laid out in 1771, be discontinued and the land revert to the proprietors. This petition was dismissed (court records, page 104). The legal questions involved in these suits having been disposed of for the time being, Captain Edmund Bartlet offered to fill with gravel and loam the deep ravine, near the head of Green Street, and make an attractive promenade around the pond. June 26, 1800, the work was commenced, and in Auo-ust of that year it was completed. Captain Bartlet contributed liberally toward the expense of this improvement, and the placed was named, in his honor, "Bartlet Mall." Oct. 2, 1804, the town of Newburyport "voted unani- mously that the town will concur with the honorable court of sessions in placing a new court house on land between Frog Pond and the mall directly fronting Green Street," and in the year 1805 the court house was erected. Previous to this date the court held its sessions in the town house, built in 1762, on the corner of State and Essex streets. The new edifice was designed by Bulfinch and was an imposing structure, with square brick columns or pillars in front and the figure of "Justice," with evenly-balanced scales, standing above the entrance ; but all traces of Bulfinch's skill and handiwork disappeared when the building was remodeled in 1853.* * B'or many years previous to this date, the opening of the court was announced by a peculiar ringing or intonation of the bell on the Second Presbyterian meeting-liouse. To the youthful members of the community it seemed to say : — " Run, boys, runl The Court's begun 1 Stand 'fore the justice And tell what you've done." 620 OULD XEWBURY At the court of sessions, held at Salem, Mass., in July, 1S23, the erection of a new jail at the northwesterly end of Kartlet Mall was considered and an order appropriating $2,000 " for the purchase of a lot of land in Newbur\'port for the erection of a jail in said town was passed." Aug. I, 1823, Thomas Somerby ct)nve}'ed to Essex County "a lot of land in Xewbur)'port, bounded north easterly by Back Street, south easterly by road from High Street by burying ground to Common Pasture, and westerly and northwesterly by land of grantor and others in common '" (Essex Deeds, book 235, page 306). At the (October term of the same year the court " ordered that said jail be erected on land recentl}' purchased by the County of Essex of Thomas Somerby near the westerly end of the Pond." At the July term, in the year 1825, the court authorized the treasurer to issue notes in settlement for land, materials, labor, etc., " used in the construction of house, barn, jail and wall around the same," and at the same term appointed Stephen W. ^larston a committee to sell the old jail and pay over the net proceeds thereof to the county treasurer. This old place of imprisonment was then standing on the northerly side of Federal Street (formerly Chandler's lane, afterward called King Street), between Prospect Street and Temple Street. It was erected during the year 1744. The town of Newbur}' purchased of Anthony Somerby h\'b. 4, i 743-4, a lot of land four rods wide on King Street "to build a prison and work house on " (Essex Deeds, book 88, page 2). Jul}- 21, 1758. the town of Newbury conveyed to the count}' of I'^ssex, prison house, work house, and land under and adjoining the same (book 105, page 137). In 1826, the long-protracted controversy, in regard to the ownership of the common and undivided lands within the limits of the town of Xewburyport, was satisfactoril}' scttlctl ; and, October 28 of that year, the pro{)rietors of common land in Newbury, Newburyjiort, and West Xewbur}', for the sum of Si, 200, gave a c|uitclaim ([<^Kii\ to the town of Xewbur}'- 1^4 A' TL E r MALL 6 2 i ptn't of all the common and undivided lands within the limits of Newbur)'port : " Reserving the road of one and one half rods wide, laid out on the easterly side of the Middle Ship- yard or Market landing, so called, from Merrimac Street to the River, . . . also a four rod way at the southerly end and a four rod way at the northerly end of Frog Pond from the main street at each end to the Pond . . . also a strip of land one rode wide all round said Pond adjoining thereto and on the margin thereof, being for public use and at no time here- after to be appropriated to the private and exclusive rights of said inhabitants " (book 249, page 200). In the year 1834, the broad and level walk on the westerly side of P'rog Pond was laid out and graded by some of the young men of the town, and the embankment, above and below, skilfully covered with turf. In 1882, the house-lot owned by Stephen Hooper in 1771 was purchased by the city of Newburyport for the purpose of extending the area, and adding to the attractiveness, of the public grounds in that vicinity. The old rail fence that formerly surrounded the mall and pond was taken down in 1883, and, in the year 1884, a granite curbing was placed around the enclosure. Other improvements were proposed, and, under the direction of the Mall Improvement Association, wei^ completed during the years 1888 and 1889. The statue of Washington at the south end of the mall was presented to the citizens of Newburyport in 1879 by Daniel I. Tenney, Esq., of New York City ; and the bronze fountain in the centre of the pond was the gift of Edward S. Moseley, Esq., in 1891. MARKET SQUARE. From the settlement of Newbury, in 1635, to the buildint^ of the Third Parish meeting-house, in 1725, the triangular piece of land at the foot of Greenleaf's lane was common land, and is so designated on the map showing the ownership of property in that vicinity for the year 1700. Subsequent changes, and transfer of title to the town of Newburyport, are noted in the sketch of the Third Parish on page 443. In the month of September, 1801, the old meeting-house was taken down, and the land under and adjoining the same became public property, and now forms what is known as Market Square. This improvement cost the sum of S8,ooo, the town paying $4,400, and individual contributors and owners of real estate in that locality the balance. A well was dug through the solid rock near the place where the old pulpit formerly stood, and for more than three-quarters of a century a pump of ample dimensions provided water to slake the thirst of man and beast. The great fire of 181 1 swept away most of the buildings then standing on the westerly and southerly sides of the Sc|uare, and new stores were afterward erected on the sites thus made vacant. The market-house, now the police-station and engine-house, was built in 1823, and occupies the sjiace at one time known as the Middle Shij^yard. On this spot at a later date were numerous stalls for the sale of butcher's meat and ])()ultr)'. Some years previous to the removal of Re\-. John Lowell's meeting-house from Market Scjuarc an effort was made to proxide better accommodations for the farmers and tradei's who were accustomed to gather in that locality. July 2, 1795, the town of Newburyport "voted to choose MARKET SQUARE 623 a committee of seven to consider the proposal made by Mr. Timothy Dexter to erect at his own expense a handsome brick building for a market house on the town's landing, between Judge Greenleaf's and Mr. Andrew Frothingham's land, and to examine into the propriety of the town's accept- ing the proposal and report at the adjourned meeting." At a meeting of the town held Sept. i, 1795, the follow- ing report, submitted by Hon. Theophilus Bradbury, was read and accepted : — The committee appointed to consider the propriety of accepting Mr. Dexter's proposal, beg leave to report that they find that the land upon which said building is proposed to be erected is laid out and established by the Town as a public way or landing, and are therefore of the opin- ion that the town has no authority to permit the erecting such a building thereon. Apparently no further action was taken by the town in relation to the subject until twenty-five years later. March 12, 1822, a committee was appointed to erect a market- house under certain specified conditions and restrictions. April II, 1822, this committee reported That they have attended to the subject committed to them and find that, in the year 1771, the spot on which the shambles now stand was laid down by the selectmen and adopted by the town as a town wav or landing, for which reason they recommend that the selectmen cause the shambles and other incumbrances upon said landing to be removed within thirty days. They find farther that on the division of the water lots in the Town of Newbury, as completed in the year 1722. certain of the lots were left for the Towns use, among which is the landing in question, and that the Proprietors of undivided lands in Newbury & Newburyport claim the fee of said landing, the use and occupation of which as a public way has belonged to the Town of Newbury from the time of the division of the water lots above mentioned until the incorporation of this Town. & since then to the Town of Newburvport. On application to the Pro- prietors Committee to see whether they would consent to relinquish their claim on the aforsaid landing, they refused to do it, unless the Town would pay them one thousand dollars, for which sum they offered to give a quit claim deed, under certain conditions, of all the landings in Newburyport and other lands on which thev pretended to have a claim : and, therefore, although vour Com" are not fullv satisfied of the 624 OULD XElf/n'h'Y validitv of said claims, yet. as they thini< it would not be perfectly safe to place a building on land so situated, which is l)esides a pul)lic way. thev request to be discharged from the consideration of the subject of Erecting a Market House. j,j^,,„ Bartlett. Ebex. Moselev. Abm" Willia.ms. Caleh CusHiNf;. Tliis report was accepted and the recommendations adopted. Several months later the subject was again dis- cussed at a legal meeting of the citizen.s of Newburyport ; and, Aug. 5, 1822, the town voted "that the selectmen be authorized to build a market house of brick, one story high, on the spot where the shambles lately stood " ; and March 10, 1823, the selectmen were authorized "to take such measures respecting finishing the market house as they shall judge most for the interests of the town and determine what further use shall be made of the same." After due con- sideration the selectmen decided to add another story to the building, provided some responsible person or persons would take a lease of the same on fa\'orable terms. At a meeting of the legal voters of the tow^i held Jan. 17, 1825, it was " voted that the selectmen be authorized to finish the market house at an expense not exceeding one thousand dollars, pro- vided St. Mark's Lodge give security to the town ior the payment of the sum of ten per centum rent per annum tor the term of ten years and enter into contract that the premises shall onh' be used for Masonic piu'poses." In compliance with this vote a contract was j^repared and signed by a committee appointed on the ])art of St. Mark's Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons ; but, in the meanwhile, other plans and proi)ositions were submitted to the selectmen for the right to complete and use the proposed new hall. At a meeting of the legal voters of the town held Feb. 8, 1825, the following resoh'e was passed : — Whereas the committee of .St. Mark's Lodge have agreed t(neiini|uisii any claim whicii thev mav have, bv virtue of anv votes of tliis town to the use of the hall over the market, provided the town shall make them suitable indemnitv for their troul)le and expenses not exceeding one hundred dollars. MARKET SQUARE 625 / (V(v/that the town reconsider the vote passed the 17"' day of Janu- arv last autliorizing the selectmen to finish the hall over the market for St. Mark's Lodge, and the selectmen be authorized to make reasonable indemnity, to said St. Mark's Lodge, not exceeding said sum of one hundred dollars.* In 1826, the long and troublesome controversy over the title to land under and adjoining the market-house and in the vicinity of Frog Pond Vv^as settled, as stated in the sketch of 13artlet Mall, page 620, by the payment of the sum of ^1,200 by the town of Newburyport to the proprietors of common and undivided land in Newbury. Jan. 25, 1830, the town voted to finish the market-house hall and lease the same to the Lyceum Association for the term of three years ; but this vote was afterward reconsidered. Subse- quently other proposals were made for the improvement and use of the unfinished hall ; but no definite action seems to have been taken until April 8, 1834, when the town "voted to finish the hall of the Market House, provided the interest in the Court House shall be sold to the satisfaction of the town," and a committee, consisting of Amos Noyes, Richard Stone, and Henry Frothingham, was chosen to attend to the repairs and improvements in case the court-house property was disposed of. One of the articles in the warrant, dated May 4, 1835, calling upon the legal voters of Newburyport to assemble at the town-house for the transaction of public business, reads as follows: "To see if they (the town) will authorize the Selectmen to settle with the Committee who superintended the finishing of Market Hall." For the next fifteen or twenty years all of the most important social and political gatherings were held m this hall ; and, during the winter season, a series of lectures on literary and scientific subjects were delivered there under the auspices of the Lyceum Association. * May 10, 1S25, St. Mark's Lod^e \oted to unite with St. John's Lodge in a lease of Phenix Hall for Masonic purposes. October 25, 1S25, .St. Mark's Lodge \oted to raise a subscription to pay for a full-length portrait of C General Washington, painted by William .Swain, and also appointed a committee to select a suitable subject for a companion picture. March 26, 1S26, this committee "voted to appropriate the sum of one hundred dollars, received from the town, for the purchase of a painting representing (leneral Joseph Warren, first grand master of Mass." These portraits, on can\'as measuring twelve feet in height, and six feet in width, are in the lodge room in Essex Hall on the corner of State and Essex streets, Newburyport. / a: < D o w MARKET SQUARE 627 In the month of March, 1837, the town of Newburyport appointed a committee to consider the question of providing a clock to be located in Market Square, and in the month of April following accepted the report of this committee. The clock was placed in a conspicuous position on the westerly side, or front, ot Market Hall, where it remained until Feb. 3, 1896, when it was removed and replaced by a new one of modern construction, with an illuminated dial, presented to the city of Newburyport by John T. Brown, Esq. Previous to the year 181 1, Liberty Street did not extend from Federal Street to Market Square as it now does, but was merely a narrow way connecting with Centre Street. After the " great fire " it was widened and extended through to Market Square. The land between Elbow lane and Middle Street, run- ning back to Fair Street, and possibly further, was originally granted to William Morse, and his residence in 1679 was on the southerly side of Greenleaf's lane (now Market Sc^uare) at or near the present corner of Liberty Street. The testi- mony of friends and neighbors relating to the strange and mysterious sights and sounds seen and heard in this old house more than two centuries ago is given in detail on pages 123 to 134, inclusive, of Coffin's History of Newbury ; but the statement that the house was located on the corner of Ord way's lane and the country road (now High Street) is erroneous, as will appear from an examination of the fol- lowing abstract of title. \\\ the proprietors' records for the year 1646 a grant of land to William Morse is entered as follows : — In consideration of William Mors his resigning up into the Towns hands his house lot at Old town which he doth by these presents, They granted him an house lot of four acres in the new street to enjoy to him & his heirs forever. On another page this record is repeated in words to the following effect : — In consideration of William Mors his receiving a house lot at new town joyning to the new street he resigned up his house lot at the Old town for the use of the Towne. 628 OULD XEWBUKY William Morse died Now 29, 1683. Ills will, ilalcd Au^'. .S, 168^^, and ])i(>\cd March 25, 1684, gave to his wife I'^lizabeth, for hei" life, aiul then to his daughter, Abigail Ilendricks, wife of John Ilendricks, and her children, house, barn, land, etc., and a])]M)inted Captain Daniel Pearce, Tristram Coffin, and Nathaniel Clark o\'erseers, or trustees, to dispose of liis meadows, etc. June 19, 1696, Moses Pingr)' and wife Abigail (former!)- .Abigail Hendricks) con\'e}'ed to Daniel Davison liouse and three and three-tiuarters of an acre of land (a small lot had prexiously been sold), which land and house were formerly in the jDossession of the said William Morse, deceased, and dex'ised b\' him to saiil .Abigail llendi'icks, now Al)igail IMngr)', bounded northerl}' b\' the highway and land of the grantee and of John Tuckei', on the west In' land of lulward Ordway, easterl}- b)' land of John Toocker, land of the grantee, and land of Caleb Mood}-, and southerl\- b}' the land of John Hale, Sr. Mis. Pingr)-, acting in the ca})acit\' of executrix of the will of William Morse, of Newbur)-, deceased, signed this conve}-ance (ICssex Deetls. book 36, page 6i). Jul}' 6, 1696. the sanie ]K'rsons con\e\-ed the same prop- erty, in their indi\idual capacit}-, to Daniel l)a\ison (book 32, page 52). Aug. 26, 1699, Major Daniel Davison sold to Captain Peter Coffin four acres of land (having ])urchased the small lot pre\iousl}' beloiiging to this estate) and house, bounded northerh' b}' land of I'homas Mood}', Captain lulward Sar- gent, and William Xo\'es, easterb' b\' land of John Hale, southei'h' b\' land of l-'awn Clenients, and westerl\- b\- the highwa}- (book 14. page 301). .\o\'. 12, 1714, Cajitain Petei- Coffin con\-e}-ed to " m}' son in law Daniel Da\'ist)n and m\ tlaughter .\bigail i )a\ ison his wife" the same ])remises described abo\e with the exception that the land is Ixiunded on the east b}' Ilenr\' Male, insteatl of John Ilale as in the prexious ileed (bt)ok 35, l)age 16). The will of Majoi' Haniel l)a\ison. dateil Jan. 18, 1717-18, and pi-o\ed l-'eb. 11,1717 18, ga\e to his wife .\bigail and MARKET SQUARE 629 to his children, •• that is to say to my three daughters Sarah, Mar}' and Abigail and my grandson Daniel Davison an equal share of my homestead, housing and land that was formerly mortgaged to my father Peter Coffin." March 30, 1723, Abigail Davison, executrix of the will of Major Daniel Davison, convejed to her sons-in-law, James Sheaf, schoolmaster, and Zachariah Fitch, leather dresser, both of Boston, house and land bounded on the northwest by the highway or road, on the southwest by land of Fawn Clements, on the southeast by land of Cutting Xoyes, and on the northeast by land of Deacon William XoNes, Captain Edward Sargent, Richard Browne and Thomas Mo<^»dv /book 41, page 49). Juh'^T, 1724, an agreement to lay out a lane from Fish Street to Chandler's lane, passing through land of Cutting XoNes, Jacob Sheaf, Zachaiiah Fitch, and Fawn Clements, two rods wide all the way, is recorded in the Essex registr)' of deeds, book 42, page 247. This lane is now known as Middle Street, extending from the foot of State Street to Federal Street. James .Sheaf and Zachariah Pitch sold the remainder of the William Morse estate to Tristram Little on the fifteenth day of April, 1730 (Essex Deeds, book 52, page 22 >. Mr. Little owned the property for many years. His daughter, Man,- Little, married Michael Dalton Februar\ 5. 1733-4- The half-tone print on page 626 gives the northerij^ side of the Square, with the town pump and Market Hall as the}- were twenty years ago. On page 630 is a view of the southeasterly side of Market Square and a portion of Liberty Street. On the comer where these public ways meet, not far from the brick build- ing now occupied by the Ocean National Bank, formerlv stood the house of William Morse. For many years before, and after, the removal of the Third Parish meeting-house from its first location near the foot of Greenleafs lane (now State Street) the open space and MARKET SQUARE 631 public \va}'s in thit neighborhood were the scene of great activity on market da3's. Farmers anxious to sell hay, grain, poultry, butter, cheese, e^gs, vegetables, and other products of the dairy and the farm, came from distant towns and villages seeking purchasers, and returned heavily laden with merchandise and household su})plies purchased of the mer- chants and traders in Newbury. The introduction of rail- roads, however, has turned the current of trade in other directions, and the life and animation of the old market-place have disappeared forex'er. MOSES BROWN. In 1635, Thomas Browne', Richard Browne, George Browne, and James Browne came from Ij^swich to Newbury, with Rev. Thomas Parker and others, and settled on the north bank of the river Parker, near the Lower Green. A plan, giving the location of the house-lots assigned to each of the persons above named, will be found on page 14 of this book. Thomas Browne' was born near Malford, England, in 1607, and died in Newbury, New England, Jan. 8, 1687. His son Francis- married Mary Johnson Nov. 21, 1653. They had several children. Their oldest son, John'^ was born May 13, 1665, and married Ruth Huse, Aug. 27, 1683. Joseph^ son of John=^ and Ruth (Huse) Browne, was born Nov. 5, 1690, and married Abigail Pearson Nov. 11, 17 14. They had thirteen children. The youngest, Mose.s^'', was born Oct. 2, 1742. The house in which Joseph Brown* lived, and where his children were born, is numbered 40 on the map of the West Parish drawn by John Brown in 1729 (see page 392), and was standing until quite recently at Brown Springs, so called, on the Bradford road. When Moses Brown'' was cjuite a young lad he was aj^prenticed to a chaise-maker on Prospect Street in Xew- bury])(jrt. He was acti\e and industrious and soon became a skilful workman. In 1763, he commenced business, on his own account, as a carriage manufacturei-, and for man\- years devoted his time and attention to tlu- dex'clopment of that industry. His intention of marriage to Mar\- Hall, of Newl)ur)porl, was filed with the town clerk Oct. 31, 1772 ; but the recortls MOSES BKOIVN 633 do not show when or where the marriage ceremony took place. x\t this time, the commerce of Newburyport was in a tiourisliing" condition : and Mr. Brown soon became interested in the shipment of merchandise to the West Indies, receiving in return small cargoes of sugar and molasses, which he sold at a good profit. He bought a dwelling-house, with twenty- five or thirty rods of land under and adjoining the same, on Fish Street, now State Street, which he owned and occupied for many years (Essex Deeds, book 117, page 247, and book 138, page 127). When the Merchants' Bank building was erected this house was removed to Olive Street, opposite Cono-ress Street, where it now stands. Mrs. Mary (Hall) Brown died June 28, 1778, aged ^-j ; and Moses Brown married, Oct. i, 1786, for his second wife, Mary White, of Hax-erhill, who held a large amount of property in her own right. Sept. 10, 1 79 1, he bought of Tristram Dalton, for ^1,400, about one and one-half acres of land on State Street, New- buryport, with house, barn, and other buildings thereon, to which he removed with his wife and only daughter (Essex Deeds, book 154, page 200). Feb. 23, 1792, he bought of Thomas Woodbridge Hooper land, wharf, and fiats, with the buildings thereon, bounded northwesterly on land of Stephen Hooper, extending from Merrimack Street to the channel of Merrimack River, north- easterly on said channel, southeasterly on Somersby's landing, and southwesterly on Merrimack Street (book 154, page 200). On this wharf property Moses Brown erected several brick warehouses for the storage of merchandise, and during the next twenty years developed a large foreign and domestic trade that gave to that locality great commercial activity. Sept. 19, 1797, he bought a small lot of land, on the corner of Titcomb and Merrimack streets, of Nathaniel Mulliken (Essex Deeds, book 163, page i^) ; and in 1801 he bought of the heirs of Enoch Titcomb land between Green and Tit- comb streets, extending in a westerly direction from Merri- mack Street to the house now owned and occupied by Mrs. Samuel J. Spalding (Essex Deeds, book 167, pages 305 and a: < D O w 2 O a: MOSES BROWN 635 306, and book 168, page 207). In the conveyances of this property there is no mention of buildings except a mansion house on the corner of Merrimack and Green streets, pur- chased of Sarah Titcomb ; and with that exception probably the land was unoccupied. Green Street was laid out in 17S2, and the bounds and limits of Pleasant Street from State to Green streets, " through land of Abel Greenleaf," were accepted and approved March 1 7, 1 796. The town of Newburyport voted, April 2, 1798, to confirm the action of the Select- men in laying out a public way, now known as Titcomb Street,* from Union (now Washington) to Merrimack Street ; but apparently no action was ever taken in regard to Brown Square and the continuation of Pleasant Street. It is evident, however, from the terms and conditions of a deed, dated Nov. 13, 1802, from Moses Brown to Joshua Titcomb, that the highway now connecting Green Street with Titcomb Street was intended to form a part of the public square. The land conveyed by this deed was on the north- easterly side of that highway, and on the northwesterly side of the present city-hall. The description reads substantially as follows : — Beginning at the westerly corner of said lot adjoining a square which I will lay down eight rods, at least, in width, thence partly by my own land and partly by land of Ebenezer Gunnison, north two chains 9I links, thence by said Joshua Titcomb's land south 69^ links, thence by my own land southwesterly two chains, and thence by the north- easterly side of said square 73 1 links ... on condition that only a brick building shall be erected on the southwesterly end (Essex Deeds, book 171. page 292). In September and in October, 1803, two small lots adjoin- ing the above land, bounded southwesterly on Brown Square, ♦Thirty years previous to the laying out of this public way, Enoch Titcomb, distiller, sold to Abel Merrill, shipwright, Edmund Bartlet, cordwainer, Ichabod Woodman, retailer, Obadiah Horton, shipwright, George Burrough, tanner, all of Newburyport, a lot of land to erect a meet- ing-house upon: and by another deed, dated April 6, 176S, Enoch Titcomb agreed to open and keep open a way of one and one-half rods wide from Merrimack Street up to said lot of land by his son, Joshua Titcomb's, fence, for said committee to pass and repass to and upon said lot freely (Essex Deeds, book 130, pages 262 and 263). On the laud purchased of Enoch Titcomb, a meet- ing-house was erected by the Second Congregational Society of Newburyport. The building now standing there is the third house of public worship that has occupied that site. 636 OULD NEWBURY were conveyed by Moses Brown to Joshua Titcoml) on the same terms and conditions (book 173, page 5ouas Noycs, wklnw of Silas Noyes, as stated on page 134 of this book. The conveyances from Kbenezer Stocker to Williain Wheelwrisiht, and subsequently to his sister Elizabeth, are as follows: — Oct. 31, 1S08, Kbenezer Stocker to Isaac .Adams (Essex I )eeds. book iS;, page 200). March 11. iSck). Isaac Adams to 'riiomas Carter (Essex Deeds, book 1S6, page 24). .April 24. 1.S24. Thomas Carter to Caroline Smith Oomez (Essex Deeds, book 237, page i iS>. Nov. 13, 1S26, .Stephen H. ( loniez and Caroline S. ( '.oniez tn Ann Adams, widow (Essex 1 leeds, book 243. page 194). John Wheelwright, son of Al)iahani Wheelwright, married his cousin, Ann Adams, widow. In the month of .April, 1S41, John Wheelwright and .Ann, his wife, then of Brooklyn, N.V.. sold this estate to William Wheelwright, and gave a deed of the same lo " .Anna Wheelwright, mother of tlie said William Wheelwright "' (book 32.S, page 177). March 4, 1H42, Ebenezer Wheelwright and wife .Anna conveyed tlie land with the buildings thereon to their daughters Elizabeth and Sus.in Wheelwright (sisters of William Wheelwright). Susan Wheelwright died March 24, i!S(x>. In her will dated March 31, iS4,S. and pro\ed the first Tuesday in Mav, iS'ki, she devised all her real estate to her sister Elizabeth. WILLIAM WHEELWRIGHT 655 In i860, he resolved to visit the Argentine Repubhc and secure, if possible, the right to build there a road that should ultimately connect the Atlantic with the Pacific coast. After three years of patient and persistent labor he suc- ceeded in obtaining from the government grants of land and certain privileges in regard to the importation of materials that ultimatel}' led to the construction of the Grand Central Railroad between the port of Rosario on the Parana River and Cordova, the capital of the province of that name, llie extension of this great work in the immediate future will accomplish the object for which Mr. Wheelwright labored earnestly and zealously for more than ten years. His last important enterprise was the building oi the rail- way connecting the port of P2nsenada with Huenos Ayres. In spite of serious obstacles and innumerable delays the successful completion of this work was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Ensenada Dec. 31, 1872. In the month of May, 1873, ill health and the infirmities of age induced Mr. Wheelwright to take passage on a mail steamer bound to P^ngland. He was invigorated somewhat by the voyage, but contmued to decline after his arrival in London, and died Sept. 26, 1873, surrounded by his family and some of his most intimate friends. His body was taken to Newburyport and buried in Oak Hill cemetery. His will, dated June 17, 1871, and proved the third Tues- day in November, 1873, directed that his estate, after the payment of certain debts and legacies, should be divided into nine equal ])arts. Two of said nine equal parts (of my estate) I give, devise and bequeath to Caleb Gushing, formerly of Newburyport, now of Wash- ington, Robert Codman of Boston, Massachusetts, Eben F. Stone of said Newburyport, Charles (i. Wood, formerly of Newburyport, now of Boston, William B. Atkinson of Newburyport, and the Mayor of Newburyport, for the time being, and to their successors as hereinafter provided, but in trust nevertheless and upon the trusts and for the purposes more fully to be set forth in detailed directions to be drawn up by me hereafter, having for their object to benefit my native city in providing a fund, the income of which shall be applied WflJJAM WHEELWRIGIIT 657 to the assistance of such Protestant young men of the city of New- buryport, as the said Trustees shall consider deserving and merito- rious, in obtaining a scientific education. Hut in case bv any accident 1 should omit or neglect to prepare such detailed directions I do now provide in general that the Mayor of the said city of Newburyport for the time being shall always be e.\-officio one of the said board of tru.s- tees. and as the others die or resign or decline their trusts, their places shall be filled by a vote of the other members of the board, from time to time, and that the fund may be used in the erection and endowment of a scientific school in said city, provided that no more than fifty thousand dollars shall be expended upon the buildings for that purpose, or if the fund is inadequate in the judgment of the trustees for the purpose above named it may be allowed in whole or in part to accumulate until a sufficient sum be obtained, or if it is better in the judgment of the said -trustees the whole or any part of the income may be applied to the assistance and education of Protestant young men of that city as aforementioned, and in general the fund shall be conducted and used by the said trustees in such manner as in their judgment and full discretion shall best accomplish the purpose which I have in view. But in case I shall prepare the detailed directions above referred to, all the foregoing provisions shall be subordinate to the said detailed directions. The bequest to the trustees abo\-e named now amounts to the sum of 5375,000. The annual income is expended in the payment of tuition and certain other expenses of students from Newburyport attending- the Institute of Tech- nology in Boston. William and Martha G. (Bartlet) Wheelwright had three children, namel}' : — Maria Augusta, born in \'alparaiso. Chili. Oct. 18. 1S31. Marian, born in Valparaiso. Chili. Oct. 18. 1833. William, born in Newburyport, May 29. 1840. Marian died in Newburyport, Dec. 18, 1835, and William died at Kew, near London, p:ngland, Oct. 18, 1862. Maria Augu.sta Wheelwright married, in St. George's Church, in Hanover Square, London, England, in 1854, Mr. Paul Krell, of the Duchy of Mecklenburg, Schwerin, Germany. After the death of her father the house and land on High Street, in Newburyport, then owned by Miss Elizabeth 658 OULD iXEWBCKY Wheelwright, was conveyed to Mrs. Krell hy deed dated June I, 1874 (Essex Deeds, book 906, page 4). Maria Augusta (Wheelwright) Krell died at Oatlands Park, near London, Feb. 11, 1886. In her will, dated I^'eb. 22, 1877, and proved the third Monda)' in May, 1886, she devised the above described propert)' to her husband. May 17, 1886, Paul Carl Luis l-:mil Krell, of Roslyn House, Oatlands Park, in the county of Surrey, in the King- dom of Great Britain, conveyed to Martha G. Wheelwright, of Newburyport, widt)w, for her life, and after her death to the Society for the Aid of Aged and Lidigent Females of Newburyport, the land and buildings conveyed by PLlizabeth Wheelwright to Maria Augusta Krell, June i, 1874; also orchard and j)asture land formerly belonging to Sarah and Rufus Wills (book 1181, page 138). Mrs. Martha G. (Bartlet) Wheelwright died in Newbury- port Aug. 30, 1888, aged eight)'-four ; and the house that she occupied at the time of her decease passed into the posses- sion of the Scjciety for the Relief of Aged Females, and has since been maintained as a home where women in destitute circumstances are provided with shelter and support. HANNAH F. GOULD. Zaccheus (lould, of Bovingdon, in the parish of Hemel Hempsted, county of Hertford, England, was born about the year 1589, and came to New England between the years 1636 and 1638. He settled in that part of Ipswich, Mass., which was afterward through his efforts set off into a sepa- rate town under the name of Topsfield, and died there about 1670. Benjamin Gould, a descendant of the fifth generation, was born in Topsfield May 15, 175 1. At the beginning of the Revolutionary War he marched from Topsfield with thirty minute men, and participated in the fight at Eexington April I9> 1775- He received a bullet-wound, which left a conspic- uous scar on his cheek for the remainder of his life. Some verses suggested by this incident were written by his daugh- ter, Hannah E. Gould, entitled "The Scar of Lexington." Benjamin Gould was made a captain in the Continental Army, and was subsequently engaged in the battles of White Plains, Bennington, and Stillwater, and had command of the main guard at West Point when Arnold fled and Andre was captured. July 19, 1781, he married Grizzel Apthorp, daughter of (icrshom and Hannah Elagg, and commenced housekeeping in Lancaster, Mass. The children by this marriage were : — John Flagg. born June 26. 1782 ; died in Mexico April 21. 1S28. (irizzel Flagg, born P'eb. 3. 1784: married Harvey Casey. Esther, born Oct. 3. 1785: married Henry \V. Fuller. Benjamin Apthorp. born June 15. 1787: died Oct. 24, 1859. Hannah Flagg. born Sept. 3. 1789: died Sept. 5. 1865. Rebecca, Sarah, and Marv, born in 1790: died in infancy. Elizabeth, born July 17, 1791 : married Antonio Rapallo, of New York. Genshom Flagg. born in 1793 • died Jan. 17, 1840. HAA'NAH F. GOULD 66 1 Benjamin (icnikl removed from Lancaster, Mass., to New- buryport with his wife and children some time during the year 1800. On the twelfth day of April of the same year Samuel Clement and Joseph Clement of Newburyport, yeomen, sold to John Pearson, of Newburyport, merchant, for $423.33, a lot of land bounded on the north by land of Moses Coffin, on the east by land of the grantee, on the south by land of John Lee and Widow Couch, and on the west by Charter Street. Xo buildings were mentioned in the conveyance (Essex Deeds, book 169, page 260). Although Charter Street was evidently in existence at this date, it was probably only a private wa)-. Coffin, in his History of Newbury, and Mrs. p:. Vale Smith, in her History of Newburyport, both state that Charter Street was. laid out and accepted by the town in 1805. Nov. 20, 1 8 10. John Pear.son .sold this land (no buildings mentioned), for 51,182.75, to John V. Gould, bricklayer, of Newburyport (book 192, page 105). 'Phe house now .stand- ing on this land was undoubtedly built by Mr. Gould soon after he came into possession of the property. Financial difficulties compelled him to submit to a sale of both house and land to David Peabody. This deed was dated Aug. 20, 181 3, and the estate was sold subject to a mortgage of $2,050 to Dr. Micajah Sawyer, recorded in book 202, page 132. June 13. 181 5, at sheriff's sale, Benjamin A. Gould, of Boston, bought the propert}', subject to the mortgage from David Peabody to Micajah Sawyer, for $2,100 (book 206, page 217). Notwithstanding the changes in ownership, Ben- jamin (iould with his family remained in the house ; and his son, Benjamin Apthorp, born in Lancaster June 15, 1787, and graduated at Harvard in 18 14, used his first earnings to purchase the house where his father, mother, and sisters lived. He retained the title to the property until his death. He was for many years the principal of the Boston Latin School, but was obliged to relinquish teaching on account of ill health. He married, Dec. 2, 1823, Lucretia D., daugh- ter of Nathaniel and Lucretia D. Goddard. After two years spent in foreign travel he returned to Boston, and devoted 662 OULD XElVin'KY his time and attention to the I{ast Incha inijjorting business. He died Oct. 24, I1S39. The heirs to his estate retained the property until the decease of Miss Hannah F. Gould, who was the last survivor of the family in Xewburyport. Dec. 4, 1865, the house with the land under and adjoining the same was sold to Susan W. and Sophronia and Anna B. Balch, of Brighton, Mass. The deed of conveyance is recorded in book 696, page 193. May 20, 1880, the property was sold to its present owner, Mrs. Lucy A. Snow, widow of the late Dr. George W. Snow. Hannah Flagg Gould, born in Lancaster, INhiss., Sept. 3, 1789, came to Newburyport with her father in 1800; lived for more than fifty years in the house (No. 13 Charter Street) built by her brother, John Flagg Gould ; and died there, unmarried, Sept. 5, 1865. She was buried in the family lot at the New Hill burying ground b}' the side of her father, mother, and one brother. She was a frequent contributor to periodical literature, and published her first volume of poems in 1832, a second in 1836, and a third in 1841 ; also a collection of prose sketches entitled, "Gathered Leaves," in 1846; and at a later date a volume of original and selected poems under the title of " The Diosma." In some brilliant '' jcii d'csprit^' \'erses, written for the entertainment of a few personal friends, and not intended for publication, she i)ictured, in a sportive vein, the j^eculiarities and characteristics of some of the beau.x of that day. Since her death these " Lpitaphs " have been printed and widely circulated. The one relating to Caleb Cushing is often quoted : — Lie aside all ye dead. For in the ne.xt bed Reposes the bodv of Cushiim': He has crowded his way Through the world, as they say. And even though dead will be pushiui;. IIAXXAJI F. GOCLI) 663 Cushing's reply was equally witty and effective: — Here lies one whose wit Without wounding could hit, — As green grow the grasses above her ; She has sent every beau to the regions below And now she's gone there for a lover. Among her more serious poems there is one, suggested by a casual incident at Plum Island, that is worthy of a place at the close of this brief sketch of her life. It is entitled " A Name in the Sand," and reads as follows : — Alone I walked the ocean strand : A pearly shell was in my hand : I stooped and wrote upon the sand My name, the year, the da\-. As onward from the spot I passed. One lingering look behind I cast : A wave came rolling high and fast. And washed my lines awav. And so, methought, 'twill shortly be With every mark on earth from me. A wave of dark oblivion's sea Will sweep across the place Where I have trod the sandy shore Of time, and been to be no more, Of me — my day — the name I bore. To leave nor track, nor trace. And yet, with Him, who counts the sands. And holds the waters in his hands. I know a lasting record stands Inscribed against my name. Of all this mortal part has wrought. Of all this thinking soul has thought. And from these fleeting moments caught For glory or for shame. CALEB GUSHING. On the westerly side of High Street, a few rods below the head of Federal Street, stands the house that Caleb Cushing owned and occupied at the time of his death. It was built at the beginning of the present century by Richard Pike, who bought, Jan. i6, 1810, five acres of land of Wood- bridge G. Hunt, of Newburyport, for $5,000 (Essex Deeds, book 188, page 127); also, between three and four acres adjoining the same on High Street, Newburyport, of Na- thaniel Carter (book 194, page 171). Richard Pike died June 2, 1827, leaving a widow. Alary Pike, and children as follows : — Martha Pike, who married Roger S. Howard March 22. 1832. .Sarah Jane Pike, who married Samuel B. .Stone May 30. (831. Rev. John Pike, who married Deborah Adams Aug. 11. 1841. Mary Boardman Pike, who married Bezer Latham July 28, 1852. Elizabeth Ann Pike, who married Isaac H. Boardman Nov. 28. 1843. The inventory of his estate mentions " dwelling-house with about twelve acres of land on High Street, in Newbury, apj^raised at S5,000." " Dwelling-house and small lot of land on High Street, lately owned by Martha Pike (the first wife of Richard Pike), deceased, appraised at S8oo." Oct. II, 1833, Samuel B. Stone and wife. Sarah Jane Stone, conveyed tlieir interest in this property to Roger S. Howard and Martha Pike Howard, his wife, and Mary l^oardman Pike. This deed is recorded in book 273, page 83. Mr. Howard, with his wife and othci- nu-mbers of the family, occupied the house mitil June i, 1846, when it was sold to Solomon Haskell (book 410, page 271). .April 27, 1849, Solomon Haskell soUl the land, with the buildings thereon, to Caleb Cushing. of Xewbur)])ort (book 410, page CALEB GUSHING 665 238) ; and the same day Roger S. Howard, of Thetford, Vt., and Martha V. Howard, his wife, by separate deeds conveyed to Caleb dishing all their right and title to the property (book 410, page 239, and book 413, page 281 ). This house and land, with other estates in Xewbur}', were annexed in 1851 to the town of Newburyport. Among the distinguished citizens who have lived within the limits of these two towns since the first settlement at Parker River, none have occupied more important or more honorable posi- tions in public life than Mr. Gushing. "He was born in a house recently standing in East Salisbury, Mass., near the junction of the semi-circular road, sometimes called Mudnock Road, with the old highway "leading to the mill " and to the town of Amesbury. He was a lineal descendant of Matthew Gushing, who was born in England in 1589, and sailed from Gravesend, April 26, 1638, in the ship "Diligent," of Ips- wich, and arrived in Boston August 10 of that )'ear. Mat- thew Gushing settled in Hingham, where he died Sept. 30, 1660. John Gushing, born in England in 1627, was a son of Matthew Gushing, and came to America with his father. He settled first at Hingham, but soon removed to Scituate. Rev. Galeb Gushing, born in Scituate in 1672, was a son of John Gushing. He came to Salisbury in May, 1696, and was ordained minister of the Eirst Parish Nov. 9, 1698.* He died Jan. 25, 1752, in the eightieth year of his age, and fifty-si.xth of his ministry. Galeb, son of Rev. Galeb Gushing, was born in Salisbur}' Oct. 10, 1703. Benjamin, son of Galeb, was born in Salisbur)- Jan. 19, 1739. John Newmarch Gushing, son of Benjamin, was born in Salisbury May 18, 1779. John Newmarch Gushing married Lydia Dow, of Salisburv, April I, 1799. The children by this marriage were: — Caleb, born in Salisbury Jan. 1 7. iSoo: died in Newburyport Jan. 2. 187Q. Lydia, born in Newburyport Aug. 13, 1805 ; died in Newburyport April 21. 1 85 1. * " Mr. Synis preacht ye ordination Sermon and gave ye right hand of fellowship. Mr. Cotton gave ye charge and vvth ym Mr. Rolf and Mr. Clark Imposed hands." Thi.s was recorded hy Rev. Caleb dishing in the records of the First Church at Salisbur\', Mass. CALEB GUSHING. CALEB CUSHIXC 667 Captain Cashing was an active and enterprising ship-mas- ter, deeply interested in commercial affairs. He removed with his wife and son Caleb to Xewburyport in 1802. His wife, Lydia Dow dishing, died Xov. 6, 18 10, and he mar- ried, Jan. 29, 181 5, Elizabeth, daughter of Nicholas and ]\Iary Perkins^ "The 'children by this second marriage were as follows : — Mary Anna, born March 4. 1816: died Aug. 31. 1S31. Philip Johnson, born Dec. 11. 1818: died Sept. 29. 1846. John Newmarch. i)orn Oct. 20, 1S20. William, born Aug. 10. 1823: died Oct. 16. 1875. Sarah. l)orn Aug. 10. 1823: died May 9. 1826. Elizabeth, born in July. 1826: died Sept. [9. 1828. Caleb dishing was fitted for college by Michael Walsh, a famous teacher of that day, who kept a private school in Xewburyport. He entered Harvard in 1813, and graduated in the summer of 181 7. Fcnir years later, he was admitted to practice as attorney in the court of common pleas. He opened an office, and began his professional career in Xew- buryjjort. Nov. 23, 1824, he was married, by Rev. John Andrews, pastor of the First Religious Society in Newbury- port, to Caroline Elizabeth, daughter of Judge Samuel S. Wilde of the supreme judicial court of Massachusetts. She died Aug. 28, 1832, leaving no issue. Mr. Cushing did not marry again. Prominent in his profession as a lawyer, he was also deeply interested in public affairs, and was a frequent contributor to the newspapers and periodicals of the da}-. In 1833 and 1834, he represented Xewburyport in the legislature. In November, 1834, he was elected representative to congress and subsequently re-elected three times in succession to the same office. At the close of his fourth term, in May, 1843, he was appointed commissioner to China and envoy extraordi- nary and minister plenipotentiary of the United States to the court of that empire. After his return to Newburyport from this mission, he was again elected a member of the legislature of Massachusetts. In January, 1847, he organized the only regiment that went 668 OL'LD XEU'BURY from Massachusetts to participate in the Mexican War. He was elected colonel of the regiment, and in April of that year he was commissioned brigadier-general. At the close of the war he returned to Xewbur\|)()rt, and in 1849 bought the house and land former!)- owned and occupied by Richard Pike, as stated in the conveyances referred to on pages 664 and 665. In 185 I, he was again a member of the legi.slature, and was instrumental in securing the passage of an act incor]:)orating and establishing the city of Newburyport. The inhabitants of the new municii)alit\", appreciating his serxices and recog- nizing his pre-eminent abilitw unanimoush' elected him the first mayor of the cit)'. In the year 1852, he was appointed an associate-justice of the supreme judicial court of Massachusetts, and ser\ed in that capacity until March, 1853, when he accepted the position of attorney-general of the Ignited States in the cabi- net of President Pierce. After a residence of four years at Washington, he returned to Newburyport in April, 1857, and soon after opened a law office in Boston. In i860, he was president of the Demo- cratic convention that met in Charleston, S. C, and after- ward in Baltimore. In the fierce political contest that followed, Mr. Cushing took an active part, earnestly advocat- ing the election of John C. Breckenridge to the office of president of the United States. The abolition of shwery and the dangers that threatened the life of the nation were forci- bly and eloc[uenth' discussed. The result of the election, though disappointing to hini. was not unexpected. At the begmning of the C"i\il War, Mr. Cushing tendered his serxices "in an\' capacit\', howexei" humbli", in which it might be possible for him to contribute to the public weal," but (iovernor Andicw declined to a])i)oint him tt) an_\' posi- tion of inHuence in the .State. The national administration, howc\'er, found him an able and ethcient achiser in almost every department of the goxenunent, and his large acquaint- ance with inteinational law renderetl his serxices especiallx' x'aluabk- in the settlement of ciuestions relating to the rights of neutiMl nations or soxereivn states. CALEB CUSHIXG 669 The half-tone print on the next page, taken from a negative made in 1862, is an accurate picture of his residence in Newburyport as it was at that date. Mr. Gushing himself, with two personal friends, is standing at the entrance to the driveway leading to the house, and above the roof floats the Hag that was daily displayed during the continuance of the war as a symbol of his loyalty and fidelity to the princi- j^les of constitutional government. In 1866, Mr. Gushing purchased a fine estate in Virginia, where he resided for many 3'ears, in order that he might be near the departments at Washington. Nov. 30. 1868, he sold his house in Newburyport to his brother, William Gushing. In 1872, he was appointed one of the counsel to present the claims of the American goxernment before the tribunal that assembled at (Geneva early in the spring following. In the preparation of this case " he evinced a depth of knowl- edge, an accurate power of detail, a patience of research, a readiness to labor, a zeal for justice and right, which aston- ished and delighted all who were associated with him." In 1874, the chief-justice of the .supreme court of the United States died, and President Grant nominated Mr. Gushing to fill this vacancy on the supreme bench. G)bj ac- tions were urged against his confirmationon political grounds, but no one denied his judicial learning and legal fitness for the place or questioned his ability to honorably discharge the duties of that high ofifice. At the request of Mr. ^Gushing the nomination was withdrawn, and he was then appointed and confirmed as minister to Spain. He immediately started on his diplomatic mission,' and remained abroad for three years, with the exception of a brief visit to the United States in the summer of 1876. He resigned his position as minis-' ter at the Gourt of Madrid in February, 1877, and returned home a few months later. His brother William having died meanwhile, deeds were drawn up and signed Dec. 5, 1877, and Jan. 10, 1878, and recorded in the registry of deeds, book 990, pages 6 and 297, conveying the house and land on High Street, New- RESIDENCE OF CALEB GUSHING. CALEB CUSH/XG 6j 1 buryport, from the estate of William Cushiiig to Caleb dishing'. Once nK)re in the possession of this stately house, the distinguished jurist and statesman lived quietly and peacefully, bus}- with professional duties until his death, which occurred on the evening of Jan. 2, 1879. He was buried in the New Hill bur)ing ground, b\- the side of his wife. ( )ct. 8, 1879, a memorial address was delivered in Cit\' Hall, Newbur}'port, by Hon. George B. Loring, of Salem, In the printed volume containing a full report of the exercises on that occasion the reader will find a more extended account of the ])ublic life and serxices of Mr. Gushing. His great attainments, his knowledge of international law, and his recognized ability and influence in public affairs, at home and abroad, have given him a prominent place among the distinguished men who have been identified with " ould Newbury" from its first settlement, in 1635, to the present da}'. The house where he lived and died was sold Dec. 26, 1881, to Mr. Solomon Bachman of New York City. The grounds surrounding the house ha\e been enlarged and improved since that date, and the house itself is somewhat changed externally, but still retains its general shape and appearance. CORNELIUS CONWAY FELTON. ( )n the Bradford road, just l^cyoud the Artichoke Ri\er, and near Hiowii Springs, so called, there stood, until ciuite recently, an old house in which Cornelius Conway Felton, president of Harvard College, was born. It probably was not built until after the West Parish was di\ided ; for, the map tlrawn b\- |ohn Brown, surxevor, in September, 1729, and reproduced on page 392 of this bot)k, gix'es the location of the house owned by Joseph Lowell (No. 39), and also the houses belonging to the estate of Joseph l-5rown (Nos. 40 and 41) ; but the land extending from the easterly side of the brook to the residence of Joseph Lowell is vacant. This imoccupied land subsequently came into the possession ot Samuel Bartlett, and he probabl}' erected the house described in the following conveyances. ( )ct. 16, 1 74 1. Samuel Bartlett, ^d, of Newbur)-, black- smith, for ^'200, sold to Abel Morse, of Newbury, yeoman. land with dwelling-house thereon, bounded on the north and east b}' land of Stephen I'^mery, on the south by the Brad- ford road and a grant of land made to I'^benezer Nolton by the town of Xewbur)' for a tan-)'ard, and on the west "by the first freehold lot now in the ]:)ossession of widow Abigail l^rovvn " (I'Lsse.x Deeds, book .S2, page 143). Oct. 30, 1745, Abel Morse of Chester, N. H., sokl this propert)' to Ste])hen i*",mcr}', of NewburN' (book SS, page 219). It remained in the possession of the l'jner\' famih' until I'cb. 2^, l(S8s, when it was sold to )ar\is 11. (iambi'cll; and the house, being in a ruinous condition, was then taken down ( iCssex I )eeds, book 1 146, page 13). Subsecjuentlw William !•',. Merrill and his wile, b'.liza- beth K., in her own I'ight, sold this laud, with othei" land COA\\'/-:/./rS CONIVAY FELTOX 673 atljoiiiiiii; tlic same, to Thomas C. Thurlovv (book 1390, page 509) ; and, No\'. 13, 1893, Thomas C. Thurlow conveyed the ])n)pcrt3' to J. Ai)i)leton Hrown, the present owner. An oil painting by Mr. William S. Urown, now^ in the possession of Mrs. Samuel J. Spalding, of Newburyport, gives a view of the house as it was in 1882. A photographic copy of that painting, reproduced by the half-tone process, will be found on the next page. At the present time the cellar wall, almost concealed from xiew by a thick clump of trees and shi"ubbery, and a deep, unused well, are the onl)- memorials of the old homestead. Nathaniel Felton was born in l^ngland about the year 161 5. He came to Salem, Mass., in 1633, and li\ed there for seventy-two years. He married Mary Skelton, daughter of Rev. Samuel Skelton, the first minister of Salem. Thomas Felton, of the fifth generation in descent from Nathaniel Felton, was born Aj^ril 13, 1759, and married, July 20, 1780, Martha Conway, daughter of Cornelius Con- way, of Marblehead. He died Aug. 12, 1795, aged 36. His widow was li\qng in Marblehead in 1804, and signed a deed conveying part of a dwelling-house in that town to Mary Beal, widow of Samuel Heal. In March, 1806, she was living in Newbury and gave a deed of the other part of the dwelling-house to the same j^erson. She e\'idently remo\ed with her children to Newbur}' in 1804 or 1805, and died in Newburyport previous to Jul}- 7, 1807. Her son, Cornelius Conwa}- P>lton, was born in Marble- head June 28, 1784. He was nearly twenty-one years of age when he came to Newbury with his mother. He found employment as a wood worker in the manufacture of heavy wagons, carts, and carriages, and soon became the accepted suitor of Miss Anna Morse, daughter of David Morse, who then lived in a house on Huse's lane, so called, nearly oppo- site the residence of William Huse, numbered 172 on the map of the West Parish. His intention of marriage was recorded by the town clerk of Newbury Oct. 25, 1805. Mr. David Morse was a blacksmith b}' trade, and, in a shop near his residence, devoted his time and attention to t-lne making and repairing of iron-work for carriages. COKXEL/rs COA'IVAV FELTOX 675 At this time Stephen Emery, wht) was born July 8, 1761, and married Hannah Little May 4, 1783, was a licensed victualler and furnished entertainment for travellers. He occupied the house bought of Abel Morse by his grand- father Colonel Stephen Emery Oct. 30, 1745. He provided meals and lodgings for Mr. Eelton and his wife ; and at his house, Nov. 6, 1807, Cornelius Conway Felton, Jr., was born. Some months later David Morse removed to a house that is still standing on the Bradford road, near the entrance to Coffin's lane, on the westerly side of Pipe Stave Hill. The Felton family, father, mother, and child, soon after removed their household goods to this new home ; and for several years the two families were united in one household under the same roof. And there a second son, Samuel Morse Felton, was born July 17, 1809. The town records furnish but little information in regard to the subsequent movements of the Felton family. A few facts gathered from other reliable sources indicate that the father, although a hard-working and industrious man, was barely able, with the most rigid economy, to provide the necessaries of life for his wife and children. Soon after his marriage, he started in business as a coach and wagon builder, but the sudden disappearance of a trusted partner involved him in financial difficulties, from which he did not extricate himself for many years. Sept. 16, 18 14, he enlisted in a company of militia that was stationed at Plum Island for several months during the war with Great Britain to pre- vent the landing of troops from British vessels off the coast. Mrs. Mary (Hale) P'mery, widow of Rev. Samuel M. Emery, D. D., has in her possession a receipt, dated Newbury, Jan. 14, 1 81 5, signed by Cornelius C. P>lton and twenty-five or thirty other able-bodied citizens, for wages paid them for this service by P^liphalet Emery. In the month of P"ebruary following, Mr. F"elton removed, with his wife and children, to Saugus, Mass., and there occu- pied a house near the residence of Dr. Abijah Cheever, an eminent physician of that town. At that date, young Cornelius P'elton was only seven 676 OULD XFJVPL'RY years of age. He was quick to learn, and soon developed studious habits. He attracted the attention of Dr. Cheever, who became interested in his education and [;-ave him his first lessons in Latin. He advised him to pursue a thorou^li and systematic course of study. This advice was eagerly accepted, and \oung Felton, with the consent of his parents, was placed under the tuition of Simeon Putnam, of Xorth Andoxer, where he was fitted for college. Cornelius Conway Felton entered Harvard in 1823, and graduated four }-ears later. Dependent upon his own indus- try for support, he went to Geneseo, in the western part of New York State, and took charge of an academy, where he remained for two or three years. Returning to Massachu- setts, he accepted the position of Latin tutor in Har\ard College. In 1832, he was appointed Professor of Greek, and in 1834 I^liot Professor of Greek literature in that institution. He made several visits to Greece for the purpose of study and recreation, and jiublished, in a volume of four hundred pages, an interesting description of that classic land. Feb. 13. 1856, he was appointed one of the regents of the Smith- sonian histitution at Washington, D. C. After the resigna- tion of Dr. Walker, Jan. 26, i860, he was elected president of Harvard College, and entered upon the duties of his office F^eb. 16, i860. He died Feb. 26, 1862, of enlargement of the heart, at the residence of his brother in Chester, Pa. He married, Aj^ril 12, 1838, for his first wife, Mar}', daugh- ter of Asa and Mary (Hammond) Whitney. She died April 12, 1845, aged thirt}'. P'or his second wife, he married, Sept. 28, 1846, Mar)- Louisa, daughter of Hon. Thomas li. and Mar\- (Perkins) Car)', of B792 Hrigantine Harriet 1792 Ship John 1792 Sloop Polly 1 792 Hrigantine Eliza 1792 Schooner Nymph 1792 Ship Harmony 1792 Ship Martha 1782 Schooner Hope 1783 Hrigantine Heaver 17S6 Schooner Hannah 1792 Ship Eliza 1792 Hrigantine Caroline 1792 Ship John 1792 Ship Congress 1792 Ship Fair American ... . 1792 Hrigantine Mary 1792 Amesbury Newburyport Amesbury Newburyport Newburyiiort Haverhill Haverhill Salisbury Newbury Salisbury Haverhill Newburyport Newburyport Amesbury Newburyport Amesbury N ewbury Haverhill Amesbury Newbury Newbury Newbury Salisburv Thomas Brown 835I ( Joseph Tavlor, (Jeorge Searle, and John | «« I Donaldson I "^'s? ( Theophilus Hradbury, Jr., and Thomas | 3s ( W'oodbridge Hooper j '"ss Henjaniin Shaw 15495 William Pierce 20255 Edward Woodbery and John Goodwin 1 1955 Moses dale izqIb ( Theophilus Bradbury and Thomas Wood- I ,9 I bridge Hooper j 5455 Jeremiah Kahler 20435 ( Joseph Wadleigh, Israel Merrill, Robert | , ^^^ I Morrell, and Jonathan Webster I '*' James Reed and Robert MacGregore ^l^\t Moses Brown 86|| Joshua Carter 21855 Thomas Tliomas 181 John Pettingell 9455 John (Jreenleaf 134SS Offin Boardman '04II Benjamin Joy 299^5 Josiah .Smith 21 1/5 Benjamin Joy 49oi5 'I'imothy Dexter 'SSil Tliomas Brown and Stephen ( lorham 25235 F>enjaniin Willis ly'gs INDEX. NDEX. A 1 '.!'.( )'1'T. 'x,5. Aberdeen, Scotland, 410. Academy Association, Newbiiryport, 649. Academy Building, The, 649. Accidents, 520, 645. Acres, 37. Adams, 116, 1S8, igS, igg, 309, 310, 333, 335, 410, 477, 491, 50S, 517, 53S, 539, 542. 543, 554. 556. 573. 645. 654- 6&4. 693. John Quincy, 333. Joseph, 50S. Advertisements, 560. .-Esop, 308. Agawam (Ipswich), Mass., 9, 201. Aiken, 503. Akerman, 410. Albany, N. V., 616, 703. Alexander, 134, 520. Alford. England, 63S, Allen, 114, 135, 137, 138, 149. 2S2, 431, 496, ii8, 6S3, 6S4, 686. Allyne, 410. America, 201, 230, 342, 372, 407, 526, 527, 582, 583, 587, 665, 692. Amesbury, Mass., 62, 63, 94, 218, 23c)-242. 244, 272, '345. 392, 394. 395. 4'i5. 47<"'- 4. 5^7, 593. *W3. &05, 665, 709-712. Named, 394. Amesbury Ferry, 94. Amherst, 457, 485. Amihust, 4S6. Amory, 57S, 599. Anabaptists, 100. Andover, Mass., 103, 283, 28S, 345, 496, 522. C'37- f^Si. 703: . Andover Theological .Seminary, 636, 703. Andre, 659. Andrew, 668, 697, 698. Andrews, 417, 440, 445-447, 597, 648, 650, 667, 703 ■ Rev. John, 440, 445, 447, 703. Andros, 45, 65, 114, 184, 185, 237, 253. Androscoggin County, Me., 542. Andross, 186. Angier, 116, 130. Animals, Domestic, 9, 11, 29. Annapolis, Md., 554, 679. Annis, 371, 373, 376, 384, 393. Anni\ersary Celebration of A'ewburv, 173. Anthony, 543. Antigua, 643. Appleton, 241, 253, 28S, 315. Apropos, 549, 550. Apsley, 187. Apthorp, 404, 659, 661. Apthorp, N. H., 544. Argentine Republic, 654, 655. Arnold, 97, 162. 545, 640, 659. Arnold's Expedition, 96, 97. Artichoke River, 49, 50, 92, 95. '■ Ascutney," (ninboat, 2S1. Ash, 410. Ashby, 563. Assassination of President Lincoln. Attempted, 679. Athens, Ga., 353. Atkins, 159, 396-400, 402, 404, 407, 409, 419, 433. 532, 533. 535- Atkinson, 47, 77, 181, 280, 282, 387, 390, 411, 510, 512, 542, 613, 655, 709. Atkinson, N. H., 563, 57c. Attleborough, Mass., 561. Atwater, 317. Atwood, 568, 569, 6og, 710. Mrs. Margaret, 609. Aubin, 610. Auctions, 617. Authors, 689-692. Autun, France, 5S2. Ayer, 357. BABSON, 643. Bacheldor, 439. Bachman, 671. Badger, 18, 119, 142, 150, iSi. Badger's Corner, 142. Bagley, 272, 273, 359, 495, 575. Jonathan, 273. Bailey, 76, 106, 344, 349, 376, 37S, 393, 395, 541, 550, 594, 709. Baily, 378, 495. Baker, 16. Balch, 195, 407, 410, 5S3, 662, 693, 711. Baldwin, 677, 679. Baley, 496, 497. Bailey, 392. Baltimore, Md., 668, 679, 6S3. Bancroft, 471. Bangor, Me., 13S, 22S, 616, 704. Banks, 697. Banister, 195. Bannister, 544, 637. Barbadoes, W. I., 319, 640, 643. Barnard, 495, 564, 711. Rev. Thomas, 564, 565. Barnstable, Mass., 327. Baron, 471. Barret, 405. Barrett, 244. Bartholomew, 291. Bartholomewe, 12. ^ Bartlet, 2^, 2^, j^i, ^7, 3^. 376, i'^. 594, S?5. .S/^. 6>^. 6/1. f/.S. 6.1^7^6^, 6/5, ys, 65<. 6j4. 6>f. 6a8, 6sj^, ^jl6,. ypi, 7/1. ^ 'William, 7J»5: '^ Rev. William S., 711(4. Bartlet Mall, 6^i-b/i. Bartlett, 4,9, 17, 25, 92, 118-121, 127-129, 133, ■ 139, 140. 143, 145. 146. 1&2, 171, 214, 215, 217, 222. 223, 230-241, 279, 359, 363, 365, 3&7. 371, 373. 374. 37^. 3^1, 384. 388, 389, 393. 394. 403. 437. 44'. 4^H. 47^. 49^. 5''4. 577. 593. 599. 605. fjiJ. '^"4. 624, 672, 6S1, 683, 709-711. Richard, 230-234. Bartlett's Cove, 17, 92, 230. Bass, 3S6, 402-406, 408-411, 413, 414, 416, 418, 419, 529. Rev. Edward, 403-416. Basseterre, Guadaloupe, 462. 7i6 INDEX Bassett, 57<)- Hatchelder, 77. liatchelor, 701). 711. Halt. 14, 264. Kayley, 235, 277, 2S7, 344, 375, 3S1, 390, 393, 510. 563- r.ayly, 374- Beach, Plum Island, 220. Beachem, 487. Beal, 405, 673. Beane, 411. 447. Kev. Samuel C, 447. I'earcroft, 396, 397, 401, 402, 508. Beck, 125, 404, 416, 435, 510, 518. Beebe, 434. Beedle, 543. Beer, So. Belcher. 114, 116, 36S-370, 523. Bell, Bvfield Church, 296. Belleville Cemetery, 368, 387-390. Bells, Church, 296, 386, 387, 413, 432, 442. 445. Bennett, 510. Bennington, Vt. , 659. Benson, ()S6. Bentley, 411, 413, 416. Rev. William, 411, 413. Bequests, 609, 637, 656, 657. Bermuda, 643. Bernard, 534. Berrey, 612. Berry; 339, 432. 435, 450, 510, 532, 533. Beverages, 22. Beverly, Mass., 585. Bible, Reading of, 435. Bibles, 521. Bigelow, 438. Bilsby, England, 638. Birchen Meadow, 184. Births, First, 22, 23. Bishop, 104, 125, 129, 143, 151, 559, S75- 576- Bishop Stoke, England, 252, 305, 313. Bitsfield, 464. Blackbmn, 479. Blackleach, 178, 179, 1S4. Blacksmiths, 673. Blaisdell, 401. Bloomfield, iS. Blue Anchor Tavern, go, 109, 175-1S8. Blunt. 503, 645, 646. Boardman, 38, 608, 664, 710-712. Boddily. f)o8. Bolton, 523. P.omb-shell, The Knapp, 4S4. Bonaparte, 573. B.ond, 125, 139, 143, 152, 235. Bonde, 139, 233. Bonner, hgi. Bordeaux, France, 462. B)Oscawen, N. H., 53, 386. Boston, Mass., 15, 28, 37, 38, 45, 47-49) ''m, 65, 76, 79, 85, 97, loi, 103, 104, 108, 114, 140, 147, 159, 173, 179, 183, 186, 187, 194, 201, 203, 208, 211, 221, 227, 237, 245, 249, 250, 252, 254, 258, 264, 266, 269, 273, 275, 276, 294. 295. 3C'7. 3>3. 3'5-3'9. 323. 324. 327- 329. 333. 336, 337. 343. 353. 35''. 374. 378, 382, 383, 396, 402, 404-406, 411, 413, 410- 418, 431, 432, 439, 440, 445, 447, 449, 450, 457. 4.59. 467. 470. 47'. 47^ 4S2, 487. 489. 493-49^ 498, 499. 5o3. 5>S. 527. 534. 537- 543. 547. 550. 553. 554. 557. 55^. 5'". 5'>4- 568, 577-579. 5'"*2, 583, 587, 594, 597, ()ir., 629, 638, 639, 641, 655, 657, f)6i, 665, 676, ("77. f>79. f>84. 685, 695, 703. Bosworth, 88, 640. Bounds, 10, 13, 21. Bovingdon, England, 659. Bowditch, 503. Bowen, 447. Rev. Charles J., 447. Bowley, 393. liowman, 178. Boxford, Mass., 457, 597, 677. Boydell, 253. Boynton, 317. Bradbury, 60, 222, 244, 331, 440, 442, 456, 471, 473, 619, ()23, 711, 712. Hon. Theophilus, 440, 456. Bradford, .Mass., 95, 172, 288, 303, 339, 341, 344, 348. 497. 542. 672, 675, 709-711. Bradstreet, 45, 55, 119, 124, 252, 253, 510, 512, 518, 585. Brag, 487. Bragdon, 310. Braintree, Mass., 15, 564. Brattle, 405. Brazen, 711. Breck, 342. Breckenridge, 668. P.reeches Bible, 230. Brewer, 2S3. Brick, 407. Brick-making, 40. Brickett, 152, 251, 344, 393. Bridge, Over Parker River, 23, 83. Essex- Merrimack, 593-604. Bridger, 371, 372, 376, 377, 37S, 381, 384. John, 371, 372, 376, 377. Bridges, 23, 59-62, 67, 68, 79, 84, 104, 201, 217, 223. 245, 530-539. 593-604- Briggs, 281. Brighton, Mass., 329, 662. Bristol, England, 17, 121. Maine, 177. Massachusetts, 640. Rhode Island, 640. Bristow, 293. Britt, 393. Brixton, England, 169, 170. Brock, 495. Brocklebank, 170. Brockway, 649. Broglie, 583. Brooklyn, N. V., 473, 654, 686. Bromfield, 1 16, 703. John, 703. Brown, 14, 21, 22, 90, 95, 97, 102, 103, loS, iii, 118, 119, 121, 133, 134, 143, 153, 162, 163, 187, 217, 230, 281, 287-290, 329, 339, 349, 357. 365. 371. 373-379. 3S1, 3S3. 384, 390- 393. 406, 421, 422, 432, 439, 441, 449, 481, 495. 510-512, 524. 542. 5f*S, 594. 595. 599. 605, 627, 632-637, 641, 672, 673, 695, 701, 702, 705, 709-712. John, 28S-290. Moses, 632-637. Thomas, 287. Brown Square, 633-636. Brown Square House, 636. Brown .Street, 133. Brown's Landing, 595. Browne, 139, 142, 233, 24S, 249, 264, 287, 373, 629, 632. Brussels, 353. Bryn Mawr, Pa., 300. Buckman, 303, Buenos Avres, Argentine Republic, 652, 654, 655. Buffon, 437. Bulfinch, 619. Bunker Hill, Battle of. 542. P.urbank, 4<)5, 543. Burbenk, 265. lUirdrop Maur, England, 165. P.urgess. 491. Burke, 543. P.urlingtcm, Mass., 247, 259. Burnet, 323. Burns, 520. P.urnside. 353. Burr, 316, 6c)i. Burrill, 495. Burrough, 599, 635. Burroughs, 350, 417, 594. INDEX 717 Burt, 155, 156. Burying-grounds, 23, 24, 110-115, 362-367, 605- 611. See Cemeteries. Burying-ground, in Newbury, First, 23, 24. Burying-ground at Sawyer's Hill, 362-367. Burying-ground, New Hill, 605-609. Burying Hill, 610, 611. Butfer, 353, 710. Butman, 37. Byfield, 116, 117, 255, 203-296. Col. Nathaniel, 293, 295. Byfield Parish, Mass., 23, 225, 275, 291-301, 305. 310. 31S, 323. 324. 327-."9, 331. 432> 50S, 527, 616. Byles, 416. pABOT, 577, 578. V-/ Cadiz, Spain, 462. Caldera, Chili, 654. Caldwell, 299, 538, 704, 710. Rev. Samuel L., 704. Calef, 125, 159. Calfe, 162. California, 351. Callao, Peru, 654. Callender, 319. Calvin, 525. Cambridge, England, 638. Massachusetts, 38, 247, -311, 331, 406, 452, 542> 55". 553> 557, 641, &<3i- Campbell, 417, 704. Rev. Randolph, 704. Campton, N. H., 643. Canada, 1S5, 237, 469, 4S7, 494-496, 640. Canada Expedition, 1S5, 494-497. Caner, 402. Canso, N. S., 46S, 469, 497. Canterbury, England, 47, 48, 687, 705. Canton, Mass., 312. Cape Ann, 346, 487, 497. Cape Breton, 308, 485. Cape Horn, 652. Carleton, 279, 344, 711. Carpenter, 561. Carr, 50, 55-79, 100, loS, 109, 161, 169, 185, 20S, 221, 241, 243, 266, 267, 278, 279, 283, 39°- 393-395, 475, 496, 520, 543, 593, 6^3, 710. George, 55-64, 161, 169, 27S. Richard, 278, 279. Carr's Island, 55, 56, 58-72, 75, 76, 78, 79, 278, 279. Carr's Ferry, 55-70, 73, 74, 79, 94, 108, 185. Carriage Builders, 673. Carter, 86, 134, 442, 445, 520, 548, 594, 599, 654, 664, 711, 712. Carthagena, Colombia, 652. Cartwright, 100. Cary, 439, 440, 445, 454, 455, 557, 575, 594, 599, 676. Rev. Thomas, 439, 440, 445. Casco Bay, 1S5. Casco Fort, 1S5. Casey, 659. Casualties, 194. Caswell, 495. Cemeteries, 269, 296, 36S, 387-39^5- 433, 435- 453-463, 605-609. See BuRviNc, Ckounds. Cemetery, Belleville, 368, 387-390. Cemetery, Byfield Parish, 296. Centenarians, 457. Chace, 393. Chagres, Colombia, 652. Champney, 449, 450. Chandler, 119, 120, 123-125, 132, 133, 139, 149, 150, 162, 175, 181, 255, 280, 339, 341, 431, 527, 529, 620, 629. Chandler's Lane, 139. Chandlour, 233. Chaplin, 311. Charles II., 100, 263. Charleston, S. C, 597, 668. Charlestown, Mass., 250, 439, 542, 571, 575, 677, 680, 693, 695. Chase, 22, 123, 149, 172, 181, 194, 311,387, 393, 495, 496. Aquilla, 123. Chastellux, 503, 579, 582, 583. Marquis de, 503, 579, 581, 582. Chauncy, 324, 416. Checkley, 322. Cheever, 675, 676. Chelsea, Mass., 704. Cheney, 14, 20, 104, 172, 1S3, 301, 303, 393, 495, 51 '• 543-. Cheney's Mills, 301, 303. Cherbourg, France, 698. Chester, N. H., 559, 572, 672. Pennsylvania, 676. Cheyney, 449. Chickering, 134, 135. Child, 695. Chili, 653, 654. China, 591, 667. China Sea, 351. Chizamore, 543. Choat, 431, 543. Choate, 241, 242, 244. Chocolate Mill, 192. Choulderton, England, 165. Church of England, 9, 100, loi. Church Troubles, 236. Church, St. Paul's, 396. Churchill, 89. Chute, 303, 496. City Wharf, 156. Civil War, 1861-1865, 668, 679, 680, 697. Claggett, 410. Clams, 219. Clark, 21, 70, 74, 91, 108, 119, 123, 157, 1S8, 192, 196, 251, 291, 365, 417, 501, 505, 576, 628, 645, 665. Clarke, 157, 186, 277, 348, 364, 495, 497. Cleaveland, 325. Clement, 281, 661. Clements, 119, 122, 146, 147, 154, 628, 629. Clerks, Town, 15, 43, 103. Clifford, 218. Clocks, Church, 433, 442. Clouston, 45S. Cluff, 495. Coats, 487, 488, 588, 709-711. Coburn, 559. Codman, 655. Coffin, 22, 32, 45, 47, 50, 57, 58, 77, 79, 90, 93, 99-102, 109, 112, 113, 1 18-120, 123, 138, 140, 147, 148, 150, 156, 158, 168-177, 1^5, 187-189, 191, 194, 217, 223, 239, 249, 250, 269, 271, 275, 277, 281, 2S3, 290, 291, 295, 298, 303, 319, 339, 341, 349, 375, 39^, 393, 410, 411, 422, 430, 450, 455, 471, 495, 497, 500, 510, 516, 520, 550, 594, 599, 608, 611, 627-629, 661, 675, 677, 6S7, 709-711. Col. Joseph, 171. Joshua, 171-173. Nathaniel, 170, 171. Tristram, 169, 170. Coffin House, 168-174. Coffin's Ferry, 169. Cohasset, Mass., 201. Coker, 72, 75, 118, 119, 132, 133, 135, 145, 150, 236, 280, 394. Colby, 281, 48S, 495. Colchester, Alass., 55. Cole, 507, 511. Coleby, 496, 499. Coleman, 12, 14, 30, 34, 195, 616. Collins, 222, 613. Colman, 173, 192, 298, 563. Deacon Benjamin, 298. Columbia, Territory of, 603. Combes, 510. Combs, 594. Commerce, 22, 162, 163, 555, 558, 653, 654. 7i8 IXDEX (■imiiiuiii Lands, 14, 22, 118, i i S5>*. 6o6> ''09> 624, 655, 662-671. 684, 697. Hon. Caleb, 440, 606, 664-671. Custom House, 161. Cutler, 402, 407, 410, 550, 599. Cutter, 469, 594. Cutting, 22, 91, 93. pv.AI.lIi.ARI), 437. L' Dalton, 162, 331, 333, 341-.U.S. 397-4<'<>, 404, 407-409, 419, 468, 474-4S2, 548, 556, 594, 629, 633, 637, 639, 698. Michael, 475-477. Hon. Tristram, 34'-343. 477-4'\3- I lalton House, 474-477, 481. Damaris Cove, Me., 185. Dannell, 1. Dana, 195, 337, 417, 523, 648, 649, 703. Rev. Daniel, 703. 1 )ane, 28, 619. Danford, 497. I )anforth, 116, Darners. Mass.. 77, 193, 640, 677. Dartmouth, 485. Dartmouth College, 172, 703. Daupliin, St. Dominique, 462. Davenport, 72, 73, 156, 240, 257, 417, 441, 492- 501. 5«3. .';o4. 5o&> 507. .S49- 550. 5S1, 586, 5S8, 607, 709-711. William, 492-498, 501, 507. Davenport's Inn, 492, 493, 49S, 490, 502-504, 507, 586-588. Daxice, iSi. Davidson, 203, 265. Da\is, 297, 360, 376, 384, 393. 39(,. 400. 419, 488, 496, 640, 643, 651, 711. Davison, 119, 123, 147. 148. 157-151^, 185. 250, 422, 628, 629. Dean. 3, 230, 520. 1 )eacons, 170. Deaths, First, 23. Deblois. 482. Dedham, Mass., 15, 475, 699. Deeds 51, 233, 262, 347, 370. Deer Island, 55, 63, 221, 227. 593-.Sq5. 5<>7- DeFord, 134. Demerara, IJritish Guiana, 641. T)i;nis()n, 263. I it\ Lnjiort, 4S7, 494. I ic\ il's Den, 420-423. De.xter, 456, 458, 547, 549, 559, 564, 565, 570- 577- 594. 599. 623, 711, 712. Timothy, 456, 559, 570-573, 575, 576, 623. Dexter House, 564-576. Diary of Nathaniel Knapp. 485-487. Dickerson, 599. Dijon, 437. Dimmick, 417, 684, 703. Rev. Luther F., 703. Distilleries, 177, 476. Division of Lands, 21. Dixon, 494. Doane, 561. Docks, 151, 162. Dodge, 49, 77, 223, 351, 353, 387. 614, 645. Dole, 14, 16-20, 24, 83, 86, 119, 121-123, •44> 145, 153-155. 157. 15^. 170. i«i, 225, 240, 263 315- 337. 34S, 393. 394. 492. SO*^. 53''. 547. 710- Dr. John, 121, 144. " Dolphin," Urig, 640. Donahue, 360. Donaldson. 711. Dorchester, Mass., 51, 116, 117. 259. 403, 492, 493. 639. 704- I )orr. 4<). Dover, X. H., 61. Dow, 55, 235, 496, 665, 667. I )o\vneinge, 85. Downer, 311, 348, 392, 395. Downor, 393. Drake, 327, 493, 505, 583. Drayton, 597, 598. Dresser in Coffin House, 174. I )n)wn, 418, 673. I irowning. Deaths by, 77, 203. Dudley, 45, 72, 73. 103. 319, 321, 323. 373, 374. I )umas, 462. Dumer, 251, 257, 313, 315, 317. I )umm<;r, 9, 12, 14, 20, 21, 23, 28-30, 35. 43, 86, 105, 107, 112, 211, 247-250, 252, 275,291, 293, 29S-300, 305, 313, 315-324. 32S, 402, 43'- 594- Ridiard, 313, 315, 316. Lieutenant-Cioxernor William, 21)8, 317-324. Dunimer Academy, 298, 313-319. 322-325. Dunnner Mansion, 318. Dunning. 89. Dunstable, X. H.. ;-.). Dunton, 187. Durant, 299. INDEX 719 Durant, Rev. Henry, 299. Durfee, 523. Dutch, 172. EAca.E ISLAND, 55, f.3, 221, 595. F.arle, 257, 4gS. Kartliquakes, 4S. Easiiian, 222. Eastburn, 41S. East Haverhill, Mass., 172, 4'ii. East India, 662. Easton. 14, 17, 28, 291, 313, 317. East Sutton, Mass., 49. Eaton, 484. Eayr, 376. Eayre, 384. Ecclesiastical Controversy, 88, 100, loi. Edes, 471. Edwards, 6Sg, 709. Eldredge, 6gi. Eliot, 599, 676. " Elizabeth," Ship,' 32. Ellis, 2. Elm of Newbun,', Old, 424-429. El well, 641. Embargo, 163. Emerson, 105-107, 393, 594. Emery, 14, 16, 20, 24, 34, 53, 90-92, 95, 97, 141, 143, 236, 237, 269-273, 309, 328, 348, 357, 359. 367, 378, 381. 393. 675. 687, 691. John, 269-272. Stephen, 272, 273. Emery House, 270. Emery Inn, 675. Emery's Mills, 95, 271-273. Emigration, 170. Emmerie, 270. ' Endicott, 10, 203, 291. England, 28, 29, 31, 32, 40, 43, 45, 47, 48, 76, 87, 100, 103, 114, 115, 130, 165, 230, 247, 248, 269, 270, 278, 291, 317, 322, 351, 372- 374. 378, 379. 382, 383, 386, 401-403, 408, 470, 496, 523, 527, 553, 639, 653, 655, 665, 673- Engine Houses, 622. Ensenada Port, S. A., 655. Epes. 431. Epitaphs, 113-115. 131. 237. 249, 250. 457-459, 460-463, 548, 607-609. Epping, N. H., 616, 703. " Erie," Steamship, 281. Essex, Mass., 503. Essex County, Mass., 171, 172, 332, 455, 480, 542, 620. Essex-Merrimack Bridge, 223, 245, 593-604. " Essex Result," 332. Europe, 194, 345, 554, 654, 692. E\'ans, 599. Eveleth, 469. E.^eter, N. H., 14S, 244. 251, 2H\ 324, 325, . 521, 527. 529. 571- Exiles, 461, 462. Expeditions to Canada, 162, 640. Eyre, 373. CAIRBANKS, 312. 1 Falmouth, Me., 185, 310, 331, 470. " Fanny Fern," 691. Farley, 536. Farnam, 531. Farnham, 130-132, 345, 455, 531-533. 535. ''"^i. 709. Daniel, 130. 131, 455. Farris, 153, 410, 411, 584. Fatherland Farm, 299, 326-330. Fa\-our, 499. Fay, 149. Fayette County, Pa., 601, 603. Federal Street Church, 523. Feke, 319. Felt, 76. Felton, 672-680. Prof. Cornelius Conway, 672-676. Samuel Morse, 677-680. F'erries, 55-70, 73-77, 79, 83, 94, 108, 161, 169, 184, 185, 23S-246, 394, 530. Ferry at Bartlett's Cove, Proposed, 23S-243. Ferry at Holt's Rocks, 395. Ferry near Powwow River, 394. F'erry, Carr's. See Carr's Ferry. Fessenden, 267. Feveryear, 37. Fielding, 14. Fifty Thousand Pound Loan, 433. Fillmore, 282. Finley, 601, 603. Fires, 36, 53, 79, 100, 153, 622, 646-650. Fire, of 181 1, Great, 153, 622, 646-650. First Church, 170. First Presbyterian Church, 435. First Presbyterian Meeting-house, 508-520, 561. First Religious Society in Newburyport, 443- 447- First Religious Society's Meetmg-house, 650. First Parish Burying Ground, 110-115. First Tavern, 108. Fish, 22, 175, 219. Fisher, 510. Fitch, 629. Fitchburg, Mass., 679. Fitts, 129, 146. F'itz, 452. P'lagg, 659. Flatbush Pass, 543. F'letcher, 469, 710. Flood. 37, 393, 543. " Florida," Schooner, 705. Folinsbee, 711. Follansbee, 357. Follansby, 34S. F'oUensby, 223. Follingsby, 147. FoUinsbee, 710. FoUinsby, 392, 393. Forbes, 328, 329, 437, 527. Ford, 495. Forests, 346. Fort on Plum Island, 213. Fort Washington, N. Y., 641. Foster, 28, 561, 641. Daniel, 561. Four Rock Bridge, 104. Fowle, 506. Fowler, 18S, 198. Fox, 417, 447, 701. Foxcroft, 116, 307, 324, 432. France, 278, 470, 553, 555, 582, 583. Francis, 504. Franklin, 14, 18, 27, 437, 438, 493, 526, 554, 573, 691. Benjamin, 437. F'ranklin County, Mass., 616. Frazier, 439. Free Masons, 624, 625. " Free Press," The, 684. Freehold Lots, 348. Freeman, 170. French, 77, 359. French and Indian Wars, 83, 185. FVench War, 438, 470, 471. Friend, 58S. " Friends," Ship, 38. Frog Pond, 92, 118, 120, 125. 127, 139, 143. Frost, 36. Frothingham, 410, 465, 473, 511, 571, 572, 594, 613, 623, 625, 647, 650, 710. Fruit Trees, 560. Fulham, England, 403. Fuller, 121, 122, 659. Funerals, 115-117, 250. 720 INDEX GABIROOSE, C. B., 486. (iage, 217, 467. ('■ale. 710, 712. (iallislian, 410, 496. (lalveston, Tex., 227. (lanibrell, 672. (".ardner, 29, 550, 565. (lardoqui. S53- (larrison, 529, 636. (>.Si-685.' William Lloyd, 6Si-(>.S(>. Geneseo. N. V., 676. C.eneva. .Switzerland, 667. tJeorge, 495, 49(1. George III.. 499. Georgetown, 1>. C, 353, 481, 505. Massachusetts, 296, 345, 677. (".erish. 347, 434. Gerrish, 94, '05, 103, 104, 107, 141, 143, 194, 204, 258, 266, 2.S0, 281, 348, 406, 441, 446, 485, 493, 494, 497, 516, 532, 533, 542, 594, 710, 711. Gerrishes, 4S6. (ierrv, 409. Getcliell, 54, 222. Gibbs, 257, 404. ( liddings, 61(1. Gilbert, 259. Gilchrist, 402. Gile, 64S. Giles, 446. S75. 60S, 649. Gill, 471. Gillingham, Kngland, 43. Gilman, 646. Gilmanton, N. H., 505. Gloucester. Kngland, 526. Massachusetts, 102, 2117. ,^27. 329. 640. 641, 643, 651. Glover, 408, 583. Glovers, 87. Goddard, 661. Godffree, iSi. Godfrey, 22, 129. Goldsmith, 407. Gomez. 654. Goodale, 263. Goodell, 3, 66. Gooden, 510. (joodhue, 511- Goodrich, 317, 350, 709. Goodridge, 228, 252, 543. Klijah P., Assault of, 228. Goodwin, 394, 512, 712. (iookin, 548, 557. Gordon, 568. Gorges, 639. Gorham, 327, 578, 712. fJorham, Me., 310. Gould, 426, 462, 55S, 609, 659-662. Henjamin, 659, 661. Itenjamin Apthorp, 661. Hannah Klagg, 659-663. Zaccheus, 659. Gourdin, 393. Gove, 475. Grain, 81;. tJranger, 305, 446. Grant, 668. Grants, 17, 22, 27, 50, 55, 57, 62, 63, 92-94, loi, 104, 120, 125, 127, 128, 139, 143-145, 150, '5'> '57i '58, 166, 177, 184, 270-272, 287, Gravesend, Kngland, 665. (Jravcstone Inscriptions. See In.scrh'Tions. Gray, 421, 710, 711. Great Hoar's Head, 589. ( Ireat Itritain, 159, 371, 377, 407, 589, 675. Great River, 14, 25," 81, ,%, ,S8. (ireat Join, liidinn, 347. ( Ireece, 676. I Ireelcy, 76, 77, 68ij. Green .Street, 121. (Jrcentield, Mass., 616. Greenland. 142. Dr. Henry. 142. Greenland, X. H., 5S1. Greenleaf, 14, 16, 24, 93, 108, 109, 118, 119, 121-123, 125, 139, I4I-I45' 150- 15'. '55- 159, 161, 162, 167, 170, 176, 177, 200, 217, 289, 290, 308, 331-333. 335. 336. 348, 393. 397, 432, 440, 442, 449-451, 455, 465, 476, 492, 500, 510, 516, 51S, 532, 533, 547, 551, 559. 572. 577. 593. 610, 612, 613, 622, 623, 627, 629, 635, 643, 645, 693, 709, 711, 712. Hon. Henjamin, 455. Greenleaf s Lane, 119, 122. Greenleaf s Wharf, 156. Greenleafe, 277, 289, 393. (Ireenlef, 267, 434. ( Ireenliefe, 233. Greenlife, 431. Greenough, 83. ( Ireenwood, 701. Grenlef, 181. Grenlefe, 181. Griffin, 393, 495. (Jriswold, 417, 512. CSrovelind. Mass., 348. Guadaloupe. 461, 641, 643. Guayaquil, Colombia, 652. Guiseley, Kngland, 305. Gunner's Point, 595. Gunnison, 635. Gwin, 399. Gwyn, 487. Gwynn, 397, 399-401. 404, 419, 441. HACKETT, .93- Haddam, Conn.. 132. Hale, 14, 47, 48, S3-S9, 97, 105, 106, 119, 135, 137. 149. 150. iSi, 273, 293, 294, 297, 315, 336, 337. 367, 3^7. 390. 393, 432, 433, 476, 504, 505, 510, 511, 536, 542, 563, 5S8, 628, 637, 641, 675, 687, 710. Rev. Moses, 297. Thomas, 14, S4-8S. Hale House, Newburv Keck, S4, S7-89. Halifax, N. S., 485. Hall, 225, 431, 512, 632, 633. Halls, 624, 625. Hamilton, 565. Hammond, 676. Hampslead, N. H., 194. Hampton, N. H., 22, 60, 63, 76, 98, 123, 144, 145, 172. 18S, 253, 475, 526, 548, 616, 639. Hampton Falls, N. H., 450. Hancock, 333, 335, 336. Hanging Sleeves, 255. Hanover, N. H., 703. Hants County, England, 231. Harbut. 510, 613. Harbutt, 3S4. Harlem Heights, N. V., 543, 641. Harper, 41. Harris, 116, 193, 374, 37S, 379, 397-400, 404, 510, 511, 684. Harrisburg, Tex., 227. Harrison, 497, 597. Harrod, 159, 161, 645, 710. Hart, 484. Hartford, Conn., 255. Harvard College, 171. Haskell, 124-126, 489, 497,608, 664. Haven, 529. Haverhill, Mass., 86, 87, 132, 169, 194, 218, 237. 278, 392, 475, 482, 633, 709-712. Havre, France, 555. Hay .Scales, 614. Haynes, 141. Hays, 599, 710. Hayti, 31. Healey, 178, 491. Healy! 76, 594. Heard. 264. Hendricks, 147, 62S. IXDEX 721 Herbert, 456. Charles, 456. Herv'ey, 161. Hewes, 222, 376. He wins, 699. Hibbins, 51. Hidden, 510, 512. Higginson. 447, 450, 451, 455, 566, 577, 57S. Rev. Thomas W. , 447. High School, 617. High Street, 14, 50, 139. Hill, 393. Hill Street, 118, 127. Hills, 105, iig, 141, 179, 263, 496. Hilton, 277, 495. Hinckley, 76. Hingham, Mass., 28, 440, 665, 703. Hinkley, 711. Historical Society of Old Newbury, 563. " History of Newbury," 172. Hoboken, N. Y., 691. Hodge, 214,. 215, 281, 446, 570, 5S6-5SS. Hodges, 122, 689. Hog, 393- Holeman, 393. Holland, 165. Hollawaj', 485. Holman, 392. Holmes, 641. Holt, 14, 16, 23, 241, 269, 391, 395. Homer, 487. Hong Kong, China, 351. Hook, 395, 593. Hooker, 43. Hooper, 153, 162, 273. 344, 41c, 439, 479, 482, 594, 608, 610, 612, 613, 621, 633, 711, 712. Hopkinton, Mass., 401. Hopson, 487. Home, 325. Horses, 99. Horsforth, England, 305, 307. Horton, 195, 418, 594, 599, 635. Rev. William, 418. Hotel, Plum Island, 217, 575. Houchin, 639, 640. Houses, 124-126, 136, 164-174, 189-197, 260, 261, 265, 267, 305, 306, 309-312, 334-337, 354-361, 425, 44S-452, 47>-477. 4S4, 48S- 491, 52S, 529, 540, 541, 544, 547, 549-5S5. 627-631, 633, 642, 644, 651, 654, 657, 658, 661, 664, 66s, 669, 670, 672-674, 67S, 6S1, 68 2, 687, 688", 691, 693, 6^4. Moses Brown's, 633. Coffin, 168-174. Caleb Cushing's, 664, 665, 669, 670. Dalton, 474-477. Dexter, 564-576. Felton, 672-674, 678. Abijah Garrison's, 681, 6S2. Gould, 661. Ilsley, 189-197. At Indian Hill, 354-356. Jaques, 435. Knapp, 484, 488-491. Colonel Moses Little's, 540, 541, 544. Longfellow, 305, 306, 309-312. Lowell, 44S-452. Lowell-Johnson, 577-5S5. March-Haskell, 124-126. William Morse's, 627-630. Noyes, 164-167. Page, 136. Rev. Jonathan Parsons', 528, 529. Theophilus, 334-337. Parton, 6S7, 688, 691. Sawyer, 357-361. Stone's, 693, 694. Titcomb, 471-473. Toppan, 260, 261, 265, 267. Nathaniel Tracy's, 547, 549, 551-563, 567, 573, 650. Patrick Tracy's, 547, 549, 550. Houses, Weed, 136. -Abraham Wheelwright's, 642, 644. Ebenezer Wheelwright's, 651. William Wheelwright's. 654. Hovey, 524, 649. Howard, 195, 616, 649, 664, 665, 710. Roger S., 616. Hoyt, 77, 230, 442, 445, 4S9, 535, 569, 577, 594, 599, 605, 711. Hubbard, 250. Huce, 378. Hudson, 587-589, 646. Hull. 252, 258. Hume, 597. Humphrey, 10, 291. Hunt, 153, 247, 280, 495, 664, 709, 710. Huse, 142, 288, 373, 376, 37S, 393, 3q5, 396, 632, 673- Hutchinson, 27, 88, 116, 252, 276, 291, 315, 317, 405, 467, 638, 640. ILSLEV, 24, 51, 90, loi, 176, 188-190, 194, 196, 200, 503. Ilsley House, 189-197. Incorporation of City of Newburyport, 668. Indians, 11, 16, 64, 185, 201, 212, 237, 286, 288- 290, 347, 350- Indian Attack on the Family of John Brown at Turkey Hill, 2S6, 290. Indian Captives, 288. Indian Deed, 347. Indian Depredations, 286, 28S-290. Indian Hill, 347. Indian Hill Farm, 350. Indian Trails, 201. Indian Wars, 185, 237. Ingalls, 203, 461, 594. Inquests, 81. Inscriptions, 24, 36, 249, 250, 297, 325, 389, 390, 457-463, 607-609, 703. Inventory of Estate of Richard Bartlett, 232. Ipswich, England, 32. Massachusetts, 9, 10, 16, 20, 25, 28, 29, 35, .S5. 57, 59. 61, 70-74. 76. 104, 122, 146, 147, 161, 176, 177, 180-183, 186, 187, 201, 208, 212, 213, 232, 239-241, 247, 249-251, 253, 254, 261, 263, 266, 270, 288, 289, 331, 378, 494, 497. 503. 527. 530. 556, 632, 639-641, 659, 665, 703. Ireland, 77, 79, 278. Isles of Shoals, 346. Isthmus of Panama, 652-654. lACKMAN, 236, 240, 281, 283, 387. J Jackson, 159, 161, 331, 409, 410, 547, 549- 551. 555. 556. 564-568, 570, 577, 691. Hon. Jonathan, 555, 564-568, 570, 577. Jacobs, 159. Jails, 620, 649. Jamaica, 31. Jamaica Plain, Mass., 686. James III,, 365. ■' James," Ship, 11. Jameson, 711. Japan, 591. Jaques, 19, 35, 99, 119, 124, 192, 272, 366, 393, 400, 425, 536, 541. Jaques House, 425. Jaquis, 206, 207. Jefferson, 109, 553, 573, 691. Thomas, 553. Jefferson Street, 79, 94. Jenkins, 398-400, 404, 407, 410, 419, 510. Jeoffreys, 29. Jewell, 258. Jewett, 518, 529, 561, 616. Johnson, 119, 124, 156, 162, 195, 280, 287, 337, 393, 418, 433. 453. 465. 47'. 5", 577. 579, 580, 584, 585, 588, 632, 693, 709-711. : - Eleazer, 584. Johnston, 506. Jonah, 174. 72- IXDF.X Jones. 177, 470, 5.Sf>, 5SS, 599, 710. Jonson, 434. " Joppa," 21S, 219. Joshua. 471. Joy, sw 7'o. 7'2- Judges, 171, 667-669. Juet, 379. KAHI.KR, 712. Kally, 181. Keazer, 510. Kelby, 393- Kelley. 395, 576. Kelly, 132, 393. Kelly School, 132. Kemble, 276, 277. Kennebec River, 97, 162. Kenney, 393, 543. Kent, 9, 14, 23, 24, .S6, S7, 93, 154-156, 166. 213. 233, 251, 264, 265, 349, 357, 410. 411, 413. 421, 423. 432-434. 45.S. 4*>4. 48i. London, England, 28, 85, 187, 247, 253, 371. 372, 374. 38'-383. 386, 397, 401, 407, 408, 437, 445, 467, 504, 534, 56S, 655. 657. 704- Londonderry, N. H., 193. Long, 83, 105, 106, 179, 357, 378, 3S1, 384, 393, 510, 594, 693. Long Dutton, England, 295. Long Island, N. Y., 543, 641. Longfellow, S3, 305-312, 553. Henry Wadsworth, 311, 553. William, 305-308. Longfellow House, 305, 306, 309-312. Lord, 34, 35, 122, 225, 232, 263. 414, 468. 470, 571, 649, 701. Loring, 579, 671, 695. Lotteries, 531-535- Louisburg, C. B., 457, 465. 467, 468, 484, 4.>-:5, 487, 491, 494, 495, 640. Lovering, 677. Low, 503. Lowden, 510. Lowell, 15, 17, 91. 93, 95, 119. 151. 152, 216, 393.43'. 432, 436. 437. 439. 44'. 447 455. 47". 471. 493. 49^. 526. 547-55'. 564. 5f>5. 569. 577-580, 5S4, 5S5, 613, 672. Rev. John, 431, 439, 448-453, 470. Hon. John, 564, 565, 577-579. Lowell House, 448. Lowell- Johnson House, 577-585. Lowell, Mass., 344, 479, 57.S. Lower (Jreen, 13-17, 20, 23, 25, 86, 93, 104. Lowle, 181, 213, 432. Loyalists, 331. Lucas, 381, 382, 387. Rev. Henry, 381, 382, 3S7. Lunt, 9, 14, 118, 119, 124, 125, 128, 129, 135. '38. 181, 1S7, 253, 263, 280, 281, 381,384,393,441,489, 510, 511. 537,; 543. 569. f"''. 7"'. 7"4. 709- Hon. Ceorge, 704. Captain Mieajah, 569. Lur\ey. 488. Lyceum, 625, 649. Lyde, 116, 117, 295, 296. Lyme, Conn., 512. New Hampshire, 616. Lynch, 579, 583. I\L, 579, 583. Lynde, 72, 73, 179, 257. Lynn, Mass., 203, 421, 681. Lyon, 176, 186, i9r, 196. M.\CC.RKC(>KK, 712. M.ichias. .Me., 5S2. .Macintosh, 4. Mackmillion, 511. Madison, 40c). Madriil, Spain, 669. M.iinc. 408, 542. M.ddcn. Mass., 571, 593. M.illord. Kiiglaiul, 2S7, 632. INDEX 723 Malt-bouses, 149. Manila, 591. Manning, 561, 563. Manson, 282. Maps, 118, 119, 339, 341, 391, 392, 594, 595, fiio, 648. Marblehead, Mass., 153, 317, 3S2, 385, 414, 479, 4S5, 551, 557, 673. "Marblehead," Gunboat, 281. Marbur\-, 638. March, 33, 64-66, 68, 69, 89, 90, 97, loi, 109, 119, 124-127, 148, 155, 157, 159, 161, 175- 189, 192, 196, 198, 206, 207, 264, 27S, 279, 393-395. 417. 422, 441, 593, 687. Hugh, 175-184- John, 181, 184, 185. March's Ferry, 184, 1S5. March's Tavern, 90, 175-184. Maine Society, Newburj-port, 586-592. Market House, 622-625. Market Square, Nevvburyport, 121-123, 431, 441, 445, 622-631. IMarket Street, 141. Marlborough, Mass., 556. Marquand, 162, 397, 399, 400, 404, 406, 407, 446, 60S, 643, 646, 710. Marsh, 131, 132, 439, 455, 465, 594, 599. Rev. Christopher B.. 439, 455. Marshall, iSi, 576. Marshes, 219. Marshfield, Mass., 309. Marster, 614. Marston, 620. Martain, 496. Martin, 543. Martinique, 641. Martissan, 467. Mary, Qiteeti, 406. " Mary Alice," Ship, 163. " Mary and John," Ship, 9, 25, 103, 230. Maryland, 353. Mason, 496. Massachussetts, 114, 216, 225, 285, 298, 313, 3i7> 323> 325. 331-333, 337, 342, 343, 353, 35^, 373, 374, 39^, 403, 405, 40S-411, 416, 418, 456, 479, 480, 543, 556, 558, 565, 566, 56S, 569, 578, 639, 641, 667, 668, 676, 679, 701, 704. ^Massachusetts Bay Colony, 9, 15, 638, 639. Matanzas, Cuba, 579. Mather, 165, 288, 416, 63S. Matthews. 495, 497. Mavericke, 100. May, 447, 6gi. Rev. Joseph, 447. Maynard, 695. Mayo, iSi. McGregor, 599. McHard, 457. Mecklenburg, tJermany. 657. Medford, Mass., 38, 40, 165, 201, 203. Meeting-houses, 97-100, 104, 293, 294, 296, 50S- 520, 622. 635, 646, 647, 650. First, Oldtown, 14, 16, 17, 263. Rev. Daniel Dana's, 649. First Parish, Newbury, 36, 93. F'irst PresbWerian, 521, 649. Second Presbyterian, 649. First Religious Societyin Nevvburyport, 443, ,444, 44''5, 447, (""So- Third Parish in Newbury. 430-442. Meinerth, 4. Melyen, 255. Mendon, !ilass., 49. Merchants, 162. Merlande, 462. Merriam, 132, 173. Merril, 374, 375, 378-380, 392, 393, 710. ^lerrill, 4, 163, 195, 222, 240, 265, 281-2S3, 348, 350, 367, 373, 376, 377, 381, 3S4, 393, 395, 48S, 495, 543, 617, 635, 672, 717- Merrimac House, 507. Merrimac River, 9, 10, 21, 22, 27, 30, 3S-40, 49, 50, 55, 57, 59, ^4, 65, 67-69, 74, 91, 92, 95, 97, 163, 184, 201, 340, 392, 595, 598. Merrimac .Street, 14, 20, 27. Methuen, ilass., 283. Mexican War, 668. Meyer, 134. INIichelson, 276. Mico, 116. Middle Shipyard, 122, 2S0, 622. Middle Street, 629. Mighill, 264, 520. Mile .Stones, 209-211. Milford Haven, 317. Military, 16, 27, SS, 30.8, 455, 456. Millburv, 262. Miller, (395. Milles, 406. Mills (name), 137, 225, 649. Mills, First, 20, 95, 104. Grist-mills, 20, 104, 26S-274, 301, 303. Milner, 711. Milton, 455. Rev. Ciiarles W., 455. Milward, 22, 33, 35, 453. Minot, 537. Mirick, 4S5, 488, 489, 494. Miricke, 431. Mistick, 203. Mitchel, 511. Mitchell, 201, 308. Moggaridge, 2S1-2S3, 349. ^lonk, 1S7. Monroe, 677. Montesquieu, 579, 5S1, 583. M. de, 579, 581, 583. ^Montgomery, 505, 506. Moodey, 251, 293, 297, 310, 378, 393. Moody, 14, 18, 50, 70, 74, 92, 118, 119, 123, 124, 147-149, 155, 158, 169, 172, 181, 222, 223, 235, 253, 262, 265, 282, 294, 296, 324, 325, 328, 331, 336, 339, 344, 345, 348, 367, 381, 394, 430, 434, 437, 441, 485, 488, 494, 495, 510, 536, 612, 628, 629, 6S7, 693, 695. Samuel, 324, 325. Moody's Lane, 92. ^loor, 112, 200. Moore, 200, 416. Moors, 145, 146. Morehead, 518. Morehouse, 447. Rev. Daniel W., 447. Moreland, 410, 419. Morey. 384. Morgan, 97. Morgaridge. 542. Morgridg, 469. Morland, 407. IMorrell, 712. Morrison, 393, 510. Mors, 627. r^Iorse, 14, 90, 98, 103, 11S-121, 139-143, 147, 148, 171, 175, 179, 187-189, 191-193, 198, 199, 233, 349, 370. 392, 393, 410, 4'9, 495, 496, 510, 517, 627-630, 672, 673, 675, 677. F.lizabeth, 140. William, 120, 121, 140, 147, 627, 628. Morse Houses, 120, 121, 140, 147, 148, 627-630. Morss, 416, 446. Rev. James, 416, 417. Moseley, 355, 360, 414, 620, 624, 693. Closely, 4, 563. Moses, 322, 471. Moss, 181, 250. Mossom, 382. Motte, 28. Moulton, 50, III, 243, 245, 393, 593. Mount WoUaston, 638. Mulliken, 633. Murphy, 491. ilurray, 455, 457, 523, 561, 570. Rev. John, 45s, 457. 724 INDEX MusgTo, 308. Mussilwait, 14. Muzzey, 90, 95, icx), j'>4, 447. Rev. Artemus 1!., 447- Muzzle, 265, 422. Mycall, 190, 561, 594. Myles, 116, 406. NADAU, 462. Nahant, Mass., 421. Nantasket, Mass., 496. Nantucket, Mass., 170, 494. \nthij>iae/, 250. Nelson, 134, 489, i;73- New Brunswick, 681. New England, 9, 21, 22, 25, 28, 40, 45, 47, 85, 103, 115, 170, 1S7, 193, 197, 201, 203, 204, 230, 233, 247, 248, 250, 252, 253, 258, 27S, 279. .3o7> 323, 335. 355-357. 361, 371, 3S1, 3S3, 401, 405, 406, 409, 464, 469, 475, 479, 496, 498, 503, 526, 545, 553, 556, 557, 579, 583, 591, 59S, 603, 638-640, 659. New Hampshire, 113, 114, 161, 20S, 245, 342, 346, 409, 49S, 542, 554, 556. New Haven, Conn., 576. New Hill Burying Ground, 605-609. New Jersey, 33, 417, 543. New Lights, 508. New Market, N. H., 360, 496. New Orleans, La., 691. New Pond, 90-92, 96, 103. New Town, 92, 97, 104. New York, 296, 333, 40S, 409, 416, 480, 482. New York, N. Y., 300, 335, 337, 343, 345, 351, 353. 504. 526, 543. 553. 582. 621, 641, 652, 659, 671, 686, 6S9, 691, 697, 702. Newljurgh, N. Y., 687. Newbury, Mass., 9-15, 17, 20-22, 24, 25, 27-33, 35. 37. 43-45. 47, 49-5'. 57-74, 7(', 79, «', 86-88, 91, 95, 97, 98, 100-108, 110-114, 119- 123, 125, 127-129, 135, 137, 139, 140, 142- >53, «55, '59. if". 165. if'7. ilig, 170. 172, 173, i75-'87. "89, 191-194, 198-201, 203- 208, 211-213, 218, 221-223, 230-233, 236- 241, 243-245, 247-253, 255, 261-267, 269- 273, 275-27S, 280, 281, 283, 287-291, 293, 294, 296, 297, 299-301, 303, 305, 307-311, 313. 315-319. 324. 327-329, 333. 339. 34>- 343. 345. 347-350. 357. 359-361, 363. 364, 366, 368-370, 372-385, 389-392, 394-397. 401-403, 406, 411, 419, 421-426, 429-434, 436, 437, 439. 441, 442, 447, 449, 45°, 453. 455, 459, 464, 4f'5, 468-47'. 475-477, 479. 484, 485, 487, 488, 492-498, 500, 501, 503, 504, 508, 509, 511-518, 526, 527, 529-533, 536-539, 54", 542-544. 545, 54S, 551, 555- 55S, 563-565, 567, 579, 589, 593-595. 597- 601, 603,604, 611-613, 616, 617, 619, 620, 622, 623, 625, 628, 631, 632, 63S, 639, 643, 649, 664, 665, 671-673, 675, 677, 687, 704, 709-712. Newbury Kails, 20, 305. Newbury Neck, 81, 84, S6-89. Newbury River, 19, 87. Newburyport, Mass., 13, 75, 89, 97, 125, 130, 132, 159-161, 163, 188, 192-196, 213, 214, 216, 223, 225, 227, 228, 237, 239, 243, 245, 255, 273, 278, 2S1, 282, 2.S5, 299, 329, 331, 333, 336, 337, 34', 343-345, 35', 355-357, 367, 39', 405, 4"6, 410, 411, 413, 414, 416- 419, 43r), 431, 440-444, 446, 447, 450, 451, 455-457, 46'-463, 46S, 470, 471, 477, 479- 482, 4S4, 489, 490, 493, 499-501, 503, 504, 5'5-5'7, 520, 521, 523, 527, 529. 547, 549- 55', 553, 555-5.57, 559-56', 563-566, 56S- 573. 575-579, 581-589. 59", 593-595- 597, 598, (yai, (.03-605, 607-fxxj, 61 i-'ii7, 619-625, 627, 632, 633, 635-637, 640, 643-646, 649-652, 654, 655, 657, 658, 0'6i, 662, 664, 665, 667- 6(xj, 671, 673, 681, 683-687, 691-693, 695, fK,7. 701-705, 709-712. Newburyport .Marine .Society, 83. Newell, 524. Newfoundland, 640. Newhall, 586, 588. Newman, 441, 459, 476, 493, 584, 588. Newport, Kngland, 491. Rhode Island, 31, 319. Newton, Mr., 116. Newton, Mass., 564, 704. Nichols, 100, 5S8. Nicholson, 379-3S1. Noise, 393. Nolton, 238, 672. Norard, 487. . .^ .,/ - North, 50. ci„-L-vf,eE<^l)iS Wc'- ■• North Andover, Mass., 676, 695. Northen, 88. Northend, 250, 251, 325. Norton, 77, 222, 489, 510, 520. Nowell, 193, 410, 489, 510, 5S8, 710. Capt. Moses, 489. Noyes, 9, 10, 14, 25, 27, 70-72, 74, 90, 91, 94, 95, 99, loi, 104, 106, 112, 114, 115, 118, 119, 133, 134, 148, 149, '52, 164-167, 175, 181, 185, 188, 191, 192, 213, 249-251, 255, 265, 281, 313, 341, 34S, 350, 374, 393, 422, 432, 44'. 459. 460, 5'o-5'2, 5'8, 538, 545, 58S, 625, 628, 629, 643, 654, 709, 710. Rev. James, 9, 14, 25, 164-167. Noyes House, 101, 164-167. Noyse, 393. OAK HILL CEMETERY, 12S, 700-705. Oatland's Park, England, 658. Obituaries, 597. O'Brien, 137, 138, 599, 709. Old Hill Burying Ground, 435, 453-463. Old South Church, Cenotaph in, 521. Oldtown Cemetery, 36. "Ontario," Steamship, 281. Ordinaries, 21, 161. First, 21. Ordway, 77, 112, 119-121, 139-142, 147, 162, 365, 375, 378, 393, 397, 434, S'o, 543, 627, 628. James, 397. Ordway's Lane, 139, 140, 142. Organs, Church, 404, 405, 414, 440, 442. Orne, 161. O.sgood, 4, 319, 497, 649. OsUaway, 376. Otis, 156, 410, 411, 414. ( )wens, 496. ( )xford, England, 165. Oyster Bay, L. I., 319. PACIFIC STEAM NAVIGATION CO., 653. Packer, 410. Page, 136, 13S, 238, 239, 241, 243, 458, 616, 649, 70.3. David Perkins, 616, 703. Page House, 136. Pain, 1 16. Paine, 316, 333. Robert Treat, 333. Palmer, 116, 457, 475, 595-597, 604. Timothy, 457, 595-597. Pans, Prance, 353, 437, 583. Parishes, 291-296. Parker, 9, 10, 14, 16, 25, 27, 30, 33, 87, 88, gi, 100, 103, 1 10, 112, 165-167, 193, 212, 213, 230, 236, 249, 252, 416, 632. Rev. Thomas, 9, 10, 14, 16, 25, 33, 100, 103, 164-167. Parker River, 9, 10, 14, 16-1S, 20, 23, 25, 81, 83, 91, 201. Parker Rner Bridge, 530-539. Parker River Falls, 293. Parker River Ferry, 530, 531. Parkman, 467. Parsonage, Byfield, 292, 294, 299, 300, 334-337- Parsons, 188, 192. 196, 199, 200, 244, 275, 297- INDEX 725 Parsons {conihi7ied). 299. 316, 324> 327-329. 331-337, 435, 437, 440, 442, 457, 4S1, 5oq, 510, 512, 513, 515, 517, 518, 520, 521, 523, 527, 529, 549, 556, 570, 588, 589, 599, 698. Eben, 327-329. Gorham, 329. Rev. Jonathan, 512-521, 528. Rev. Moses, 297, 327, 331. Hon. Theophilus, 331-338, 440, 457. Parton, 553, 687-692, 705. James, 687-692, 705. Partridge, 113, 114, 122. William, 113, 114. Patch, 244. Patridge, 2S1. Payson, 251, 645. Peabody, 225, 336, 495, 504, 510, 661. Peabody, Mass., 329. Pearce, 204-206, 628. Pearson, 137, 191, 205, 228, 258, 301-303, 441, 493, 495, 542,594, 599, ^"32, ^43, &6i- Pearson, Benjamin, Homestead of, 301-303. Pearson Hotel, 228. Peaslee, 392. Peck, 273. 359. Prof. William Dandridge, 273. Peekskill, N. Y., 543. Peirce, 143, 206, 207, 250, 251, 510, 511, 513, 514, 710, 711. Peirson, 476. Pejepscot, Me., 544. Pemaquid, Me., 177. Pemberton, 30, 51, 129, 248. Pembroke, ^lass., 2S1. Pemmaquid, Me., 69. Pendergast, 360. Pengrj-, 147. Pennsylvania, 409, 410, 680. Penobscot River, 569. Pepperell, 465, 468. Perigord, 582, 5S3. Perkins, 98, 193, 20c, 280, 445, 489, 503, 504, 539, 643, 667, 676, 709. Perley, 3, 119, 120. Peme, 43. Perrin, 695, 699. Peru, 653. Peters, 410. Petitions, 181, 182, 221, 372, 373, 376. Pettengell, 35, 37, 40, 97. Pettengill, 543. Pettingal, 223, 410, 709, 711. Pettingall, 303. Pettingel, 608, 710. Pettingell, 34S, 512, 516, 520, 599, 712. Pettingill, 495. Pettingle, 510, 511. Philadelphia, Pa., 329, 342, 343, 353, 409, 437, 4S0, 522, 526, 554, 582, 583, 679, 680, 689. Philadelphia & Reading Coal and Iron Com- pany, 156. Phillips, 416. Philp, 310. Phips, 308, 431. Pierce, 25, 26, 29-39, 86, 93, 97, 99, 112, 113, 119, 123-125, 192, 265, 271, 279, 280, 288, 360, 422,495, 510-512, 516, 551, 555, 557, 567, 667, 711. Daniel, 25, 29-35, 113, 123. Pierson, 441. Pike, 12, 14, 16, 19, 20, 76, 94, 135, 137-139, 159, 233, 235, 236, 264, 289, 348, 370, 393, 495, 497, 510-512, 550, 594, 599, 608, 616, 649, 664, 668, 691, 695. Piker, 393. Pillow, 6gi. Pillsbury, 51-54, 92, 349, 3^6, 387, 437, 495. Pilsbury, 308, 348, 393, 711. Pillsbury House, 52-54. Pine Swamp, 12S. Pingry, 628. Pipe -Stave Hill, 339-346, 476. Pirkins, 710. Piscataqua, 3S0. Pitsbury, 393. Place. 543. Plaintield, N. J., 132. Plaistow, England, 317. Plan of First Settlement at Oldtown, 14. Plan of Spencer- Pierce Farm, 177S, 39, 90. Plant, 222, 237, 382-386, 388, 3S9, 391, 393, 396-398, 401-404, 406, 419, 508. Rev. Matthias, 237, 3S2-386, 396, 401-403. Plate, Old Church, 405-407. Plum Island, 201, 212, 220, 462, 575, 581, 591, 663, 675. Plum Island Sound, 10. Plum Island Turnpike and P>ridge Corpora- tion, 217-219. Plumer, 105, 106, 108, 146, 181, 250, 434, 510, 512, 536. Plummer, 14, 21, 145, 150, 176, 393, 512, 530, 531- 536, 537, 709- Plymouth, England, 317, 456. ^lassachusetts, loS. "Pocahontas" Ship, Wreck of, 220, 462, 463. Poets, 662, 684-686. Pole, 276. Police Station, 622. Politics, 668, 697. Poole, 276, 329. Poor, 154, 280, 2S3, 294, 303, 495, 510, 536, 537, 543- Poore, 24, 81-83, 93, 236, 282, 283, 348-353, 355, 367, 393, 414, 530, 535- Benjamin, 351. Ben: Perley, 351-353, 355- John, 24, 81-83. Samuel, 348, 349. Poore House, 81-83. Poore' s Lane, 282. Poore Tavern, 83. Popkin, 100. Port Hudson, La., 697, Port Royal, Jamaica, 48. Porter, 522. Portland, Me.. 185, 310, 311, 331, 440, 470, 616, 687. Portraits, 479, 558, 566-568, 644, 673. Portsmouth, England, 553. New Hampshire, 114, 161, 222, 244, 266, 319. 342, 371, 384, 405, 417, 485, 491, 493, 503, 504, 521, 526, 527, 529, 553, 579, 640, 645. Portugal, 553, Post Riders, 677. Powwow River, 63. Prayers, 9, 10 1. Presbur)'. 510, 512. Prescott, 225, 336, 337. Presson, 431. Price, 401. Rev. Roger, 401. Prime, 527. Prince, 187, 410, 440, 521, 559-561, 594, 608. James, 559-561- Rev. Joseph, 521, 561. Princeton, N. J., 641. Printers, 683, 685, 686. Pritchard, 489, 491. Privateers, 641. Proudfit, 523. Prout, 156, 410, 481, 594. Providence, R. I., 319, 576, 577, 680, 704. Provoost, 409, 410. Prussia, 485. Public Librar\', Newbur\-port, 547, 551-563, 566, 572, 650. Punishments, 98. Putnam, 76, 77, 137, 192-197, 200, 349, 503, 587, 640, 676. Oliver, 192-197. Putnam Free School, 194-196. IXDEX QIAKKKS. K... 27... (Juascacimquen ( Newbury). Mass.. h.. lju.»scaciinquen River, y, 10. Cjuebec. Canada, 97, i')2, 3cS. 43^. 4^5-497. 507, 640. Queen's County, X. S., 6S1. Oueen .Anne's Cliapel, 237. .i'k'^, 37'-.^■'^7• S'^'J- 3f/'- C»uincy. 5(14. IJuincy, Alass., 41^. Quincey, 72, 73. RAIl.RO.VDS, (154. 655. 674 ■ Kani Island, 55, 58, 62. Kaiiisdi-n, 711. Kand, i.j,. 4K1, 413. 4i(>, 594, 599. Randolph, 45. Rapallu. 'sv- Rate Lots. 34S. Rawlines. 3i).<. Rawlings, 121. Rawlins, 3S1, 393. Rawson, 15, 21, 27, 42-51, 53, 54, 62, 91-94, 101, 169, US3, 231, 232, 236, 24S, 276, 277. Kdward, 15, 42-5'. Records of Newbury, 13. 15. 23, 92. Reed. 4, 524, 712. Reli.uious Services, I''irsl. I'l. Rcniiik. 2.S3, 476. Representatives, 170, 171. Revere, 413. Revolutionary War, S3, 96, 97, 162, 193, 213, 4-'*')- .S5'' Yv^- 5''". 565. 5^'9. 570> 5*>3. '>4o, 641, 1143, 659. Rhode Island, 17, iS, 31, 291, 319, 403, 40!^, 410, 416. 470, 570, 5S3. Rh/iarii. 114. Richards, 510, 7<>9> 7"- Richardson, 107, loS, 112, 11.., 142. i4C>. iSi, 233. 3'M. 393. 4 '9- 523- 575- Richison, i.Si. Ridgeway, 25S. Ridgway, 4S7. Ring, 122, 1S3, 1S4, 639. Ring's Island, 64, 70, 74, 1^4. Ripp. (m-. " Rising Empire." Shi]), (151. Roads, 201, 394. Roberts, 3^10, 399, 4. 30Oi 303. 3'^ 3'7. 328, 345, 497. S^7' ■i29. Roxl)ury, Mass., 116, 313, 579, 6-9. Ruggles, 2!i7. kuinford, N. H., 273. Kunisev, 47, 4S, 307. Russell, 38, 156, 511, 557, 558, 57,;, 710. 'I'lionias, 558. Russia, 55S. Rust. 237. Rutland, \'t.. 'o(>. S.VCO, MK., 161. .Safi'ord, 5 n • Saleby, England, 638. Salem', Mass., 20, 27, 28, 30, 32, 34, 40, 45, 50, 65, 69, 71, 73, 74, 87, 88, 103, 104, 120, 123, t66, 176, 177, 180, 181, 183, 186, 201, 203, 206, 208, 239, 243, 250, 251, 254, 259, 266, 278, 299, 406, 409, 411, 418, 436, 453, 455, 477, 479. 482. 484. 487. 505. 535. 538- 553, 557, 5<^o, 564- 5<^5< 575, 577, 587, 620, 639, 671, 673, 69S. Salisbury, Mass., 12, 55, 57-63, 65-70, 72-74, 76, 79, 122, 157, 169, 183, 184, 187-189, 221, 222, 227, 235, 236, 238-246, 250, 253, 27S, 283, 345, 359, 394, 395, 432, 475, 496, 556, 593, 595, 597, 603, 639, 665, 6S3, 705, 709- 712. .Salisbury River, fio, 62. Salter, 564. .Saltonstall, 9, 313. San Antonio, Tex., 227. San Francisco, Cal., 351. Sanborn, 495, 510. Sandford, 276. Sandy Hay Harbor of Refuge, 697. .Sanford, 276. " .Sapphire," Ship, 163. •Sargant, 431. •Sargeant, 393. Sargent, 60-75, "'-^ "8, 119, 122, 148, 149, 159, 161, 185, 300, 329, 62S, 629, 641. Edward, 161. .Sargent's Tavern, 161. Saugus, Mass., 201, 203, 675, 677. .Savage, 293. Savory, 283, 393. Sawyer, 187, 333, 339, 341, 350, 357-360. 362, 363, 367, 370, 373, 376, 378, 381, 384, 41 ', 434, 457, 510, 543, 544, 594, 599. 661. Dr. Micajah, 457. Sawyer's Hill Burying Ground, 362-367. Sawyer's Hill Meeting-house, 363-36(1, 36S-370, 378. .Sawyer House, 357-361. Saye'r, 393. Sayor, 348, 393. Scape-thrift, 187. Scarboro', Me., 333. Scarlett, 493. School, First, 17. Schools, 104-108, 132, 433, 434, 613-617, 637, 641;, 656, 657, 676, 683, 689. School-houses, 199, 433. .School-house on the Mall, 614-616. School Teachers, 172. Schoulcr, (179. Scituate, Mass.. 665, 704. Scotland, 27S, 351, 514. .Scudder, 342. .Scullard, 19, 12S, 269. .Seabury, 401). Seagul, 1S7 Seagull, 187. Seamens, 680. Searl, 542. Searle, 417, 594, 599, 709-711. Sears, y(>. Seawall, 248, 252. Second Congregational Chuicli. .Meoting-house of, 635. Second Presbyterian Meeting-house, 641;. Seddon, 1S8. Sergant, 281. .Serjeant, 19, 27. Serjeant, 186. Sermons, 470. Settlement of Neubury, First. 10, n, 13. Sevier, 709, 710. 'vSewall, 1), 21, 51, 71-73, 88, 90, 101-103, '07, INDEX 727 Sewall {continued). 112, 113, 116, 1S7, 247-251^, 261-267, 2S 375. 37S. 422. 43". 432. 449. 510, 612. Henry, g, loi, 247-252. Judge Samuel, loi, 247, 250-259, 293-296, / 307-310. 323. 449- ■/Sewall House, loi. Shackford, 437, 492, 510. Shaftesbury, Vt., 703. Shakspere, 187. Shattuck, 506. Shaw, 506, 576, 709-7 1 1 . Sheaf, 629. Sheep, 127. Shepard, 79. Sherlock, 386, 403. Ships, 163, 709-712. Ship-building, 275-285, 709-712. Ship-masters, 22. Ship-yards, 275-2S5 Samuel Moggaridge's, 349. Shirley, 459, 514- Short, 9, 14, 15, 25, 70, 74, 91, 93, 94, 105, 158, 251, 265, 272, 30S, 309, 313, 495. Shove, 107, loS, 266. Seth, 266. Shrimpton, 257. Shuts, 133, 253, 319, 322, 3^3. I'^iy sg''^- / Governor Samuel, 319, 322. ■^//Sibley, 494. Sibly, 494. Siege of Louisburg, 465. 467-469, 485-488. Silver, 18-20. Simmons, 398. Simpson, 563. .Sinclair, 524. Sisters of Charity, 337. Skelton, 673. Slavery, 298. Abolition of, 6S4-6S6. Small, 196. " .Small-po.\, 71, 265. Smith, 14, 47, 53, 87, 118, 127, 12S. iSi, 200, 217. 308, 328, 336, 349, 37**. 379. 393. 407. 442, 469, 543, 569, 589. 599, 609, 661, 709- 712. Smugghng, 53. Snell, 640. Snelling, 129, 453. Dr. William, 453. Snow, 662. Society for the Relief of Aged Females, 658. Solomon, 518. Somands, 384. .Somerby, 15, 17, 19, 20, 27, 28, 31, 32, 71, 72, 87, 104, 143, 146, 150, 162, 170, 181, 191, 223, 265, 281, 287, 339, 347, 394, 433, 434, 569, 595, 610, 612, 620, 649. Somersby, 105, 109, 118, 122, 127-130, 231, 232, 251. 633- South America, 194, 651, 652, 654, 704. .Southampton, England, 11, 269, 313. .Spain, 669. Spalding, 633, 673. Sparhawk, 436. Spencer, 9, 14, 18, 20, 25-32, 34, 35, 39, 90, 101, 213, 235, 291, 551, 555, 557, 567. John, 9, 25-32, 34, 35. .Spencer- Pierce House, 25-41, 90, 555, 557, 567. Spendall, 187. Spitingfield, 710. Spofford, 41, 223, 225, 226, 22q. 649. Harriet Prescott, 225, 226. 229. Dr. Richard S.. 225.' Hon. Richard S., 223.225. Sprague, 131. Spring, 608. .Springfield, Mass., 329. Squamscott Falls, N. H., 639. St. Domingo, 461. .St. Eustatius, 643. St. John, N. B., 70s. St. Paul's Church, Newburyport. 396-419. 583. .St. .Sauveur, 461. Staffordshire, England, 389. Stamp-distributor hung. Effigy of, 500. Stamford, Conn., 417. Stanwood, 343, 344, 446, 481, 499, 500, 5S8, 709- 711. Stapleton, 441. .Starkey. 458, 459. Capt. William, 458, 459. .State Street, 38. 95. Statue of Washington, 621. Staves, 345. Ste. Rose, Guadaloupe, 462. Steams, 417, 523, 524. Stephens, 165. Stetson, 504, 561, 589, 680. Stevens, 118, 169, 222, 240, 329, 465, 495. Stevenson, 710. .Stewart, 275, 317. Duncan, 275. Stickney, 103, 118, 128, 134, 2S0, 464, 497, 565, 577. sSii-. Stillwater, N. \ ., 659. Stor-ker, 133, 134, 153, 217, 442, 445, 487, 643, 654, 710. Stockman, 599. .Stoddard, 51. Stone, 130, IQ5, 240, 479, 482, 569, 625, 655, 664, 693-699, 705, 711. Hon. Eben F., 693-699, 705. Storey, 503. .Storms, 462, 537. Storre, 638. Stoughton, 116, 2S9. Stowell, 447. Rev. (ieorge L., 447. Stratton, 276. Streets, 118-121. Early, 18-20, 24, 94, 95, 97, 103, 104. Street Railways, 217. Stretton, 277. .Strickland, 522. .Strong, 480. Struthers, 522. Sudbury, Mass., 149. Sullivan, 40S, 470, 583. Sumersby, 476. Sumner, 698. Sun Hotel, 559. .Sunderland, 687. .Sutherland, 172. Swain, 625. Swasey, 243-246, 431, 593, 636. Swazey, 594. .Sweat, 710, 711. .Sweazy, 245. .Sweet, 495. Sweete, 221. Swett, 90, 109, 176, 177, 189, 236, 239, 240, 392, 393, 395. 495. 553. .Swett's Ferry, 395. Swett" s Tavern, 90, 176, 1S9. Swinburne, 6Sg. John, 689. .Symonds, 31, 61, 69, 74. .Syms, 665. JAILER, 257, 323- • Tailors, 103. Taleyrand, 579, 581-5S3. Baron de, 579, 581-583. Talleyrand, 500, 5S2, 583. Tannatt, 398-400. Tanneries, 172. Tanners, 17, 18, 237. Tapan, 250. 251. Tappan, 251, 370, 543, 700, 702. 728 INDEX Taverns, 53, 57, 64, 72. 79. 82, 83, 88, 90, 108, icx), 175-1S4, iSi), 228, 492, 493, 498, 499, 502-507, 58'>-5S«. 675- First, 21. Tavlor, ii(>, 178, 295, 709, 711. Tebbetts, 505. Teel, 594. Temple. 599. Templenian, 603. Tenney, 621. Teiixbury, 235, 236. Thacher, 28, 29. Thames River, 9. Thaxter, 430, 431. Tlietford, Vt., 616, 665. Third Parish in Newbur>', 430-443, 453. Third Parish Meeting-house, 122, 622. Thomas, 31, 32, 87, 103, 175, 235, 408, 410, 419, 453> 5f'7-57o. 573> 597. 643, 709. 7". 7i2. Capt. Thomas, 5(18-570, 573. Thompson, 4, 309, 353, 363-366. Tliorla, 543. Thorlay, 202, 204-206, 208, 275, 530. Thorlay's liridge, 104, 201, 202. Thornton, 108. Thurlay, 204, 205. Thurley, 206-208. Thurlo, 208, 336. Thurloe, 161. Thurlow, 194, 336, 673. Thurston, 24, 93, 133, 536. Tidmarsh, 459. Tileston, 493. Tilley, 255. Tilton, 495. 505. Titcomb, 27, 81, iiS, 119, 122, 125, 127-129, '33. '39. '42, 145. 159. 185, 192, 193. 232, 233, 235, 237, 277, 280, 281, 2S7, 333, 347, 432-434, 438, 439, 453, 464-473, 510, 513, 5'8, 572, 579. 594. &'3, 633, 635, 636, 644, 645. Col. Moses, 438, 464-473. William, 464, 465. , Titcomb House, 471-473. Titcomb .Street, 635. Titcombe, 231, 232. Titles, 139. Tittcomb, 450. Todd, 496, 505, 510, 545, 563, 570, 573. Tom. 347. Tompson, 106, 107. Toocker, 628. Topan, 248, 262, 267. Toppan, 14, 17, 90, 93,97, 98, loi, 108, iii, 112, 132, 172, 173, 199, 248, 250, 253, 260-267, 347. 365, ^bi.), 390, 410, 411, 430, 432, 434, 449. 457. 509. 5'o. 545. 594. 599. 709. 7"- -Abraham, 262-264. Rev. Christopher, 250, 509. I'oppan House, 260, 261, 265, 267. Topsfield, Mass., 132, 193, 503, 659. Torrey, 62. 'I'own Clerks, 143, 170, 171. Town House, F'irst, 198-200. 'i'ownsend, 281. Tracey, 533. Tracy, 37, 38, 155, 156, 162, 335, 356, 396, 39S, 3W, 408-410, 4iy, 450, 451, 454, 455, 465, 477, 535. 545-5'». 563-5f>9. 572, 577, 579, 581, 5.S3, 5,S4, fe,S, 612, 613, 650. John, 579, 583, 584. Nathaniel, 37, 38, 162, 455, 551-555, 557-559- Patrick, 3.8, 545-551, 555, SS7. 5f>5. 577. 579, 5X4- Fracv House, 650. Tracfing Houses, 9. Training (Ireen, , 91, 96, 97, 103. Trask, 10, 291. Travelling, 203. Travels, 652. Travers, 14, <^, 101, 102, 248. Trees, 173, 30'-3"4. 425-429. 703. Trees, Pearson Elm, 301-304. Old Elm of Xewbur>', 424-429. Trenton. X. J., 641. Troops on Plum Island, 213. Trowbridge, 331. Tucker, 99, 112, 135, 147, 148, 158, 280, 497, 509, 628. Rev. John, 509. Tufts, 3S1, 391, 393, 431, 432. Tukky, 252. Tunnell, 449. Turkey Hill, 49, 286-290. Turner, 10, 291. Turnpikes, 217-219. Tuttle, 227. Tuxbury, 244. Twombly, 299. Tyler, 131, 594, 599, 700-711. Tyley, 71. Tyng, 155, 223, 407, 410, 411, 413, 419, 559, 579, 594. 599) ''87. 69 1 • I [NITED STATES, i6i, 215-217,325,333, '-' 353, 408, 417, 471, 4S0, 555, 556, 558, 578, 579, 591, 667-669, 685. Upliam, I. Upper Commons, 345. Upper Creen, 17, 24. " Uriah," Ship, 643. Usher, 114. X/ALPARAISO, CHILI, 652-654, 657. V Van Buren, 418. Vane, 247. A'arnum, 6S4. Vassar College, 704. Vaudreuil, 579, 5S1, 583. Viscount de, 579, 581, 583. Vauglian, 638. " Vengeance," Ship, 569. Veren, 183. Vermilye, 51S, 523, 524. Vermont, 542, 616. Verren, 207. Versailles, France, 555. \'essels, 709. Villard, 686. Vinal. 407, 610, 61 1. Vincent, 375. Vinson, 34. Vinton, 319. Virginia, 178, 409, 66g. Voltaire, 692. WADE, 288, 289. Wadleigh, 712. W'ainwright, 124, 1S5-187, 301, 303. Wales 1 15, 496. Walker, 159, 317, 493, 676. Wallace. 524. Wailington, 102. Walsh."6i5, 667. Michael, 615. Waltham, Mass., 329. Wanton, 319. War of 1812, 163, 675, 677. Warbeton, 487. Ward, 495. Wardwell. 98. \\'ardweirs, I.vdia, Case, 98. Warehouse Point, 70. Warner, N. H., 237. Warren, 625. Warville, 342. 555. Warwick, Kngland. 252. Warwick County, England, 103, 251. Washburn, 418. Rev. Edward .A., 41S. Washington, 38, 216, 245, 343. 543, 551, 556, 5':'. 565. 5«V 573- 578, 625, 641. Wa.sliington's Visit, 556, 561. Washington, IJ. C, 225, 285, 335, 343, 353, 355, INDEX 729 Washington, D. C. (continued). ' 4S0, 4S2, 561, 643, 655, 66S, 669, 676, 679, Water Supply of Newburyport, 237. Waters, 201, 693. Watertown, Mass., 32, 33, 130, 565. Watkins, 3. Watson, 393, 417, ■^11. Watts, 112, iig, 120, 122, 125, 143, 145, 14^, 151, 152, 154, 157-159, 177, 17^- 233, 249. 250, 280, 281. Watts' Cellar, 95, iiS, 120, 122, 143, 15S. Waverly, Iowa, 689. Weavers, 103. Webster, 34, 98, 108, 118, 142, 175, 179, 228, 243-246, 270, 348, 375, 484, 593, 712. Webster, Mass., 616. Weed, 118, 132, 135-137- Weed House, 136. Weire, 20. Wells, 147, 485, 486, 510, 512, 709, 711. Wells, Me., 639, 640. Wendell, 599. Wentwortli. 581. West Indies, 345, 545, 633, 643, 651. West Newbury, Mass., 13, 22, 270, 319, 344, 345, 34S, 350, 351, 355, 363, 367, 378, 476, 620, 677. West Newbury, Map of, 339, 341, 348. West Parish, Slap of, 391, 392, 395. West Parish, Inhabitants of, 393. West Point, N. V., 659. West Springfield, Mass., 512. Weston, Mass., 556. Wexford County, Ireland, 545. Wharves, 119, 122, 123, 151-163. First, 151. Wheeler, 123, 148, 149, 510. Wheelwright, 3y, ^^'3, i^ }/3, y^^ ^g^h -S^- 3/^, 3^, 5;»'5. 5/4, 58*), b/s/<^-'y^, b/-h 65^-f^, &>♦. bf<, 7J/4, ^/l. Abraham, 6_j«-6^. Isaac W., 2W?. Jeremiah, o^. Rev. John,'5aS. Col. John, b^. Col. Samuel, 63^. William, bj^-bxj< j/^. Wheelwright's, Ebenezer, House, b/^i. Whipple, 450, 568. White, 112, 123, 134, 151-155, 157, 177, 17S, 180, 409, 410, 418, 440, 445, 4S0, 520, 594, 633, 637- Rev. John C, 41S. Capt. Paul, 151, 177, 178, iSo. White Hall, Eng., 9. White Plains, N. Y., 641, 659, 689. White's Point, 68. Whitefield, 434, 508, 519, 521-529, 561. Rev. (leorge, 434, 50S, 521-527. Whitney, 676. Whittier. 47, 173, 227, 461, 524, 684. John G., 173, 6S4. Whitwell, 557. Wicom, 289. Wigglesworth, 265, 390, 5S1, 586, 599. Wigsteps, 581. Wilcomb, 465. Wilde, 609, 667. Wilkinson, 506. Wilkinsonville, Mass., 49. Will of Kichard Bartlett, 231. Richard Dole, 18. Daniel Pierce, 33. John Spencer, 27, 28. Willard, 254. Willet, 369, 393, 610, 612. U'i/liauiy Khig, 278, 406. Williams. 299, 337, 373, 376, 3S4, 393, 523, 524, 608, 624. Willis, 689, 691, 709, 712. Wills, 337, 55''^- Wilmington, Del., 679. Wilson, 414, 573, 614. Wiltshire, Eng., 9, 81, 165, 230. Winchester, Ky., 645. Windmill, 610, 611. Winder, 524. Window, 102. Wingate, 506. Wingley, 55. Winsor, 201. Winter Hill, 640. Winthrop, y, 11, 20, 85, 86, 116, 201, 203, 247, 291, 293, 315. Wiswall. 51. Witchcraft, 120, 140, 147, 254. Withington, 4, 417, 704. Rev. Leonard, 704. Woart, 410, 414, 693. Wolf, 4S6. Wolfe, 496, 498, 504, 506, 507, 589, 640. Wolfe Tavern, 492, 493, 498, 499, 502-507, 561, 589. Wood, 85, 410, 655. Woodbery, 712. Woodbridg, 207. Woodbridge, 15, 27, 30, 32, 34, 43, 71, 72, 90, 91, 103, 105, 107, 112, 119, 151-155, 177- 179, 187, 191, 207, 251, 255, 257, 281, 317, 39S-400, 402, 404, 564. Rev. John, 103. Woodbridge, N. J., 704. Woodbury, 584. Woodland Street, 50. 92. Woodman, 14, 21, 23, 27, 43, 88, 91, 93, 100, 105, 106. 127, 129, 181, 213, 236, 248, 252^ 261, 262, 266, 269, 270, 275-277, 287, 297, 331, 393, 394, 432, 434, 495, 635- Jonathan, 275-277. Woodmansey, 76, 255. Woodstock, Vt., 616. Woodwell, 279. Worcester, 303. Worcester, Mass., 556. Worth, 393. C Woster, 510. " Wrecks, 462, 463, 651, 652, 704. Write, 487. Wyatt. 495. Wyer, 410, 569, 571, 586, 58S, 594, 599, 710. "YANKEE HERO," Privateer, 4S9. I Yarmouth, 263. Yarmouth, Mass., 108. Yonkers, N. Y., 345. York, Me., 61, 130, 310, 311, 316, 324, 526, 527. York County, Me., 640. Yorktown, Va. , 583. 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