Yale University Library

39002004093986

;^:

IS .

inBWiKv/''i 'J ¦>

^'^%ilv-V

\

-^

-S/-

(J

^
1^ \
f
\
T,
z/
\-i
-^
f
J n-
J" 1, 1
i^
^ ^
5
.<>
^
<r"
i
/
\ r."
f-isK,
\ 'V 1
«=-^ >,
»T /
\f.;
V
,.-^-
'•
1
")-v
.nx
>-<:Q
<O Di
CQ Z
o Q

>

SOMERVILLE,
PAST AND PRESENT

@-n 3ffu6ttAteb ^tfitoticctf ^out>entr

Commemorative of the Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of the
Establishment of the City Government of
Somerville, Massachusetts.

EDITED HV

EDWARD A. SAMUELS,
AUTHOR OF "ornithology AND OOLOGV OF NEW ENGLAND,'' "MAMMALIA OF NEW ENGLAND,'
"among the birds,'* "with FLY-ROD AND CAMERA,"
EDITOR OF "a THOUSAND MILES' WALK," " THE LIVING WORLD," ETC.
AND
HENRY H. KIMBALL, A. M.

BOSTON :
PUBLISHED BY SAMUELS AND KIA/LBALL,
- 1897.

Copyright, 1897,
By Samuels & Kimball.

INTRODUCTION.

T N placing this volume before the public, the editors desire to express their
gratitude for the kindly encouragement, the more than liberal support
they have received from the people of Somerville. A work of such magni
tude as this, one involving such a great amount of detail labor, could not
well be prepared without the generous assistance, the hearty co-operation
of a large portion of the community ; and that such aid has been given us,
together with a generally expressed approval of our undertaking, we gladly
put upon record.
In addition to much other valuable assistance that has been received,
many important papers have been prepared for us, and they present a fairly
complete resume of the history of the city's various institutions.
The scholarly contributions of Charles D. Elliot, George I. Vincent,
Joshua H. Davis, Frank E. Merrill, John S. Hayes, Albert E. Winship,-
William E. Brigham, J. O. Hayden, and many others will receive the ap
proval of all who are interested in Somerville's history, and they will serve
as an invaluable basis for the work of the future historian.
To the " Somerville Journal," the "Somerville Citizen " and John K.
VV'hiting we are indebted for several of the illustrations we have used, also
to Mr. Gordon A. Southworth for the portraits of " Citizens for whom Som
erville Schools were named," and for reports containing their biographies.
The typographical and artistic features of the volume speak for themselves ;
it has been our constant aim to secure the best available work, and we hope
that our efforts will receive the approbation of the public.
Somerville is a municipality of diversified interests, and of many
social centers. Hence, he who is prominent in one section may, perhaps,
be almost unknown in others. It would seem desirable, therefore, that the
various interests, business, official and social, should have ample represen
tation, and, acting somewhat on the principle outlined by City Librarian
John S. Hayes in one of his admirable reports (1S93), that we should " Re
ject nothing that relates to Somerville, or her children, and should gladly
preserve everything that comes to us which will aid the future student in

obtaining a correct idea of how the present generation employed its time,"
a generous number of portraits of citizens who have become prominent in
some walk in life is presented. It is a collection of which any city may
well be proud, and it will be treasured not only by the present but by gen
erations to come.
Greatly to our regret, historical sketches of some of the organizations
were not received in time to obtain a place in this volume, but a reasonably
full showing is made of the almost numberless associations for which this
city is distinguished.
Edward A, Samuels.
Henry H. Kimball.

CONTENTS.

SOMERVILLE'S HISTORY.
CHAPTER I . . . . . . . . . .17
Origin and Settlement. — Grants, Etc. — Deed from Web-Cowet and Squaw-
Sachem. — Early Topockapiiy. — First Settlers. — Governor Winthrop's Ten
Hills Farm.
CHAPTER II ... . . . . . 26
Early Events. — Pasturing and Herding. — Characperistics of Early Immigrants.
— Machinery OF Primitive Industkies Set in Motion. — Establishment of Town
Government of Charlestown. — Municipal Regulations. — Person.e non Grat.^.
— First Highways. — The Stinted Common. — Churches and .Schools. — Peti-
TRiN of Ezekiei. Chicever. — The First Town School. — Military Organizations
and Forttficai ions. — King Philip's W,\r. — Indian Allies.
CHAPTER III ... . . .34
Advent of Andros and Consequences to the Colonists. — Titles to Estates
Imperiled. — Ten Hills Farm and its Owners. — A Fa\orite Home for
Goveknors. — "The Blessing of the Bay" Built and Launcpied. — Captain
Robert Temple. — Sla\'e Holders in Somerville. — The First Privateer in
America. — Colonel Samuel Jaques. — The Old Powder House. — Jean Mallet.
— A Tragic Legend.
CHAPTER IV  -45
Friction Between the Colonies and Home Government. — Preparations for the
Great Struggle. — Seizure of Powder. — First Hostile Demon.stration of
THE Revolution. — The Whole Country in Arms. — Resignation of Lieut.-
GovERNOR Tpiomas Oliver. — Arbitrary Measures of the British Government.
— Secreiion of Arms and Distribution of Military Supplies by the Colo
nists. — Hostile Steps taken by the British. — The Patriots Warned. — Paul
Revere's Ride. — Battle of Lexington. — Roads in Somerville Traversed by
British Troops. — Battle of Bunker Hill. — Vivid Scenes.
CHAPTER V . ....... 57
The Siec:e of Boston. — Intrenchments Made. — Exchange of Prisoners. — Battle
of Hog Island. — Gage's Proclamation of Amnesty. — Fortifications on
Prospect and Winter Hills. — Arrival of Generals Washington, Putnam
and Lee. — Declaration of the Continental Congress. — Descrifitons of the
Patriots' Camps. — Sufferings of the People and Troops. — First Unfurling
of the New Flag of the United Colonies. — Seizure of Dorchester Heights.
— Evacuation of Boston by the British.
CHAPTER VI . . ....... 70
Designed Isolation of New England. — Surrender of Burgoyne. — Hessian
Prisoners Quartered in Somerville. — Ball and Supper given by General
Riedesel's Wife. — Poor Barracks for the Prisoners. — .Scarcity of Fuel. —
Removal of the Prisoners.

CHAPTER VII ... ..... 77
Revival of Industries aiter the Revolution. — Brick-making in Somerville. —
Celebrated Farms. — The Bleachery. — The Middlesex Canal. — Completion
OF Bridges to Boston. — The First Railroad through Somerville. — Establish
ment of the McLean Asylum. — Robbery of Major Bray. — The Ursuline
Convent and its Destruction. — Town Improvements. — Establishment of
Schools. — Beginning of a Fire Department. — Separation of .Somerville from
Charlestown.
CHAPTER VIII . . . ... 86
Town Beginnings. — Expenses of Early Town Government. — Highways Described.
— Growth of the Town. — Survey of the Town. — Railroads and their Exten
sion. — Horse Railroads Opened. — Industries of Early Somerville. — Fire
Department AND its Growth. — Organization of the Somerville Light Infantry
— Schools and their Developjient. — Churches.
CHAPTER IX . . . . 105
Somerville's Response to President Lincoln's Calls for Men. — Appropriations
BY THE Town for Soldiers and their Families. — Bounties Offered. — Somer
ville Light Infantry. — Somerville Guard. — Volunteers for the War. — State
Bounties. — Officers of Somerville Companies in the War. — Service during
THE War of the Companies fro.m Somerville. — The Martyr Roll.
CHAPTER X ... ... .118
Improvement of Highways. — Gas Introduced. — Water Supply. — Sewers. —
Great Improvements. — Central Hill Park. — Horse Railroads. — The Town
Farm. — Attempts to Divide the Town. — City Charter and Hall. — First
City Election.
CHAPTER XI . . . . . . . . . .126
Appreciation in Value of Real Estate. — Great Increase of Houses. — Steam
RfViLROADS. — Extension of Street Railways. — West End Railway. — Widen
ing OF Somerville Avenue and Broadway. — The Broadway Park. — The
Miller's River Nuisance. — Annexation to Boston Discussed. — Parks and
Boulevards. — Tufts College. — Old Landmarks.

HISTORY OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT.

CHAPTER XII

145

First Board of Officers. — Statistics of Population, Valuation, etc. — The
Miller's River Nuisance. — Great Improvements Made. — Mayor Furber's
Administration. — Ereciton of New Police Building. — Construction of the
Broadway Park. — Great Sanitary Improvement. — M.wor Belknap's Admin
istration. — Construction of Large Sewers. — Completion of the Public Park.
— F'irst Contribution to the Sinking Fund. — Administration of Mayor Bruce.
— Reconstruction OF Bridges. — Administration of Mayor Cujimings. — Great
Improvejients on Central Hill. — Erection of New Building for the Public
Library.
CHAPTER XIH . . . . . . . -153
Administration of Mayor Burns. — The Water Supply. — Application of the
Sinking Fund. — Reduction of the City Debt. — Introduction of tpie Police
Signal System and Electric Street Lighting. — Construction of New School-
houses. — Administration of Mayor Pope. — Introduction of a High Water
Service. — The Old Powder House. — The Somerville Hospital Organized and
Established.

CHAPTER XIV ........ 158
Administration of May'or Hodgkins. — Establishment of the Nathan Tufts Park.
— Celebration of the Se.mi-Centennial Anniversary. — PA^TNG Importani
Thoroughfares. — Erection of the New High School Building. — A New City
Hall Advocated. — Erection of a New Central Fire Station. — Great Im
provements Made IN Various Directions. — Administration of May'Or Perry'.
Changes at the City Hall. — Important Improvements in the Sewer System.
— High Credit of the City. — Functions of Different Boards of the City
Go\'ERNment. — Scope of City Charter.

HISTORY OF THE SCHOOLS.
CHAPTER XV ....... -177
From 1842 to the close ok the Superintendency of Joshua H. Davis, 1888.
CHAPTER XVI . . . . . .194
Superintendency of Clarence E. Meleney'.
CHAPTER XVII . . . . . 202
Superintendency of Gordon A. Southworth.
CHAPTER XVIH . . ... 226
EDUCATIONAL INTERESTS.
CHAPTER XIX ..... . -237
HISTORY OF THE WATER- WORKS.
CHAPTER XX . .... 253
THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND POLICE COURT.
CHAPTER XXI . . 258
HISTORY OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARY.
CHAPTER XXII ... . .269
HISTORY OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.
CHAPTER XXIII . ... 2S2
HISTORY OF THE CHURCHES.
East Somerville Baptist. — First Baptist. — Randall Me.morial Free- Will B.a.ptist.
— Perkins .Street Bapitst. — L^nion Squ.\re Baptist. — Winter Hill Baptist. —
Bro.'Vdway' Congregational. — DA^¦ Street Congregational. — First Congrega
tional (Unitarian). — F'irst Orthodox Congregational. — Highland Congrega
tional. — Prospect Hill Congregational. — Winter Hill Congregational. — St.
Ann's (Catholic). — St. Catherine's (Catholic). — Em.-manuel Episcopal. — St.
Thomas Episcopal. — St. James Episcopal. — First Methodist-Episcopal. — Park
Avenue Methodist- Episcopal. — Union S<juare Presbyterian. — First Univer-
salist. — Third Universalist. — Winter Hill Universalist. — E\'angelical
Association Church.

CHAPTER XXIV . . . . . • • 333
CHARITABLE AND SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS.
Somerville Hospital. — Hospital Ladies' Aid Association. — Somerville Asso
ciated Charities. — Samaritan Society. — Somerville Day Nursery. — Willard
C.Kinsley Post 139, G. A. R.— Willard C. Kinsley Relief Corps. — Woman's
Christian Temperance Union. — Fireman's Relief Association. — Somerville
Young Men's Christian Association. — Masonic: Somerville Royal Arch
Chai-ter; Orient Council; John Abbot Lodge; Soley Lodge. — Odd Fellows:
Somerville Encampment; Winter Hill Encampment; Caleb Rand Lodge;
Oasis Lodge; Paul- Re\ere Lodge. — Rebekah Lodges : Ivaloo Lodge; Ramona
Lodge; Erminie Lodge. — Odd Ladies: Constellation Lodge; Longfellow
Lodge. — Ancient Order of United Workmen : Somerville Lodge. — Knights ( if
Honor: Mt. Benedict Lodge; Cameron Lodge. — Knights of Pvthias: Arcadia
Lodge. — Royal Arcanum: Somerville Council; Elm Council. — So.mer'stlle
Light Infantry. — Central Club. — Sons of Maine Club. — Daughters of
.Maine Club. — Heptorean Club. — Hillside Club. — Webcowit Club. — Winter
Hill Club. — Conversation Club. — Somerville Literary Association. — Suf
frage League. — Society of St. Vincent de Paul. — Little Sisters of the
Poor. — Friendly Helpers ok the Poor. — Reminiscences of Somerville. —
Home Circle: Washington Council; Harmony Council; Somerville Council;
Loyal Orange Institution : Mt. Horeb Lodge.
CHAPTER XXV . . . -446
BANKS OF SOMERVILLE.
CHAPTER XXVI .... . -452
INDUSTRIES OF SOMERVILLE.
North Packing and Provision Company; Fresh Pond Ice Company; The Sprague
and H.vriiAWAY Company; Union Glass Company; Derby Desk Company; Brick-
.making; Middlesex Bleach, Dye and Print Works; Carpet Cleaning, etc.
CHAPTER XXVII . ... ... 465
MISCELLANEOUS.
Boston and Maine Railroad. — Street Railways in Somerville. — The "Som
erville Journal." — The "Somerville Citizen." — Westwood Road and Its
Residences.
CHAPTER XXVHI ... ... 484
BIOGRAPHIES.

New DAY Street Congregational Church.

SO.MERVILLE LIGHT INFANTRY IN THE SeMI-CENTENNIAL PARADE.

Fortifications around Boston in 1775. From an old English plan.

Charles D. Elliot.

SOMERVILLE'S HISTORY.
By CHARLES D. ELLIOT.

CHAPTER I.

Origin and Settlement. — Grants, Etc. — Deild from Web-Cowet and Sijuaw-
Sachem. — Early Topography. — First Settlers. — Governor Winthrop's Ten
Hills Farm.
Somerville was formerly a part of Charlestown, that honored ancestor
of the towns of the Mystic valley, — and whose bounds originally ran
"eight miles into the country from their meeting house,'' and included
Woburn, Stoneham, Winchester, Burlington, a part of Arlington and Med-
ford, Somerville, Maiden, Everett and the Bunker Hill peninsula, and whose
early history is the heritage of each.
New towns one after another were broken off from the old, the last
being Somerville in 1842, and in this account the name Somerville is used
in narrating the events which have occurred within its limits, since its first
settlement. The title of the white man, whether Spanish, French, Dutch, or Eng
lish, to the home of the Indian, rested usually in a royal grant ; " by turf
and by twig," and in the name of their king and religion they took posses
sion, seldom consulting the aboriginal owner.
The title to the territory of Somerville has this royal authority and
more. First, in the grant of James I to the Plymouth Council of all lands
between 40° and 4.S^ N. latitude from sea to sea.
Second, by grant of the Plymouth Council, March 19, 1628, to the
Massachusetts Bay Company.
Third, by royal charter, March 4, 1629, to the Massachusetts Bay Com
pany, which confirmed the grant of 1628; and fourth, a title not every
colony can claim, a deed from an Indian sovereign, " Squa-Sachem."
Other grants covered the territory and caused much trouble.
The Plymouth people had already, in 1622. granted ten miles along the
shore and thirty miles inland, to Robert Gorges ; he dying, his brother John,
in 1624, leased to John Oldham and John Dorrill all land between the
Charles and Saugus Rivers, for five miles up the Charles, and three up the
Saugus. And again John Gorges, in 1628, deeded to Sir William Brereton
all the land between Charles River and Nahant, for twenty miles inland.
17

1 8 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
But little came of these later grants, unless possibly Blackstone, the first
settler of Boston, and Thomas Walford, the first settler of Charlestown (on
the peninsula), claimed under them.
These conflicting grants caused the Bay Company to strengthen their
claim by actual occupation, and they accordingly sent settlers to several
localities within the disputed territory, Charlestown being one.
Among the instructions from the Company, written from England in
1629, to Mr. Endicott, is the following: —
" If any of the Salvages pretend right of inheritance to all or any part
of the lands granted in our patent, we pray you to endeavour to purchase
their title, that we may avoid the least scruple of intrusion." Under these
instructions several deeds from the Indians were secured, the one covering
Somerville land being from Squa-Sachem, who on the recent death of her
husband became chief of her tribe.
The deed begins as follows : —
"The 15th of the 2d Mo. 1639.
"Wee, Web-Cowet, and Squaw Sachem do sell vnto the Inhabitants of
the Towne of Charlestown all the land within the lines granted them by
the court," and closes with "wee acknowledge to have received in full sat
isfaction, twenty and one coates, ninten fathoms of wampum, and three
bushels of corne."
" In witness whereof we have here vnto sett our hands the day and
yeare above named." Early Descriptions and Topography.
Descriptions of this part of the country sent to England by the early
comers, often read like advertisements of modern Eldorados. They were
generally directed to intending settlers, and usually with the desired effect :
after reading they emigrated ; for health and plenty stood on the shore, and
with open arms welcomed each new arrival. The sea, the rivers, the woods,
and the fields were great natural store-houses, stocked abundantly with fish
and fowl, furs and fuel, fruits and flowers ; the air and water were the
purest; "New England's air was better than old England's ale," and as
one writer said, "We are all freeholders, the rent day doth not trouble us."
If all that was written were true, this must have been a paradise to the
sportsman, farmer, and lover of nature.
Yet there was much that was true in their high-colored, curious de
scriptions. Mr. Graves, the earliest civil engineer in Charlestown, writing in 1629
or 1630, thus describes the topography of this section : " It is very beautiful
in open lands, mixed with goodly woods, and again open plains, in some
places five hundred acres, some places more, some less, not much trouble
some for to clear for the plough to go in ; no place barren but on the tops
of the hills. The grass and weeds grow up to a man's face in the lowlands,
and by fresh rivers abundance of grass and large meadows, without any
tree or shrub to hinder the scythe.''

Thomas Cunningham.

Asa Durgin.

SOMERVfLLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 21
The peninsulas of Charlestown and Boston, when settled, were much
alike in shape. From the mainlands on either side they reached out toward
each other and shut in the great basin of Back Bay. They were attached
to the mainland by low, narrow necks, which being overflowed, made each
an island at highest tides.
From Charlestown neck, the marshes extended to the shores of Miller's
and Mystic Rivers, and from the foot of Prospect Hill round to the foot of
Convent and \\'inter Hills ; Asylum Hill was a peninsula at high tide.
Several creeks and brooks now mostly extinct, meandered from the
higher land, across these marshes to the adjacent rivers. Chief of these
was Miller's, first known as Gibones' River from Captain Edward Gibones
who lived on its shores, probably near Cobble Hill. A later name for this
was Willis' Creek, or Wills' Creek ; and one French translation makes it
" Crique de Vills." It was probably called Miller's River, and Cobble Hill,
Miller's Hill after Thomas Miller, who owned land in that locality.
This rivulet had its source in old Cambridge, South of Kirkland Street ;
thence in earlier days it flowed, a pellucid stream through sandy upland,
and sedgy meadow, to its mouth near the Charles.
A branch of Miller's River began its course not far from the Old Folks'
Home on Highland Avenue, crossing Central Street near Cambria, and
School Street near Summer, joining the main stream not far from Union
Square. East of Miller's River, and flowing into the same great Charles River or
Back Bay basin, was Crasswell Brook, named after one of the early owners ;
its outlet still exists, and forms part of the city boundary ; a ditch through
the McLean Asylum grounds marks approximately a part of its old course.
Washington Street bridged it, and its source was probably not far from the
junction of Cross and Oliver Streets. Passing over "the Neck" we come
to Mystic River, into which five streams poured their constant tribute. The
first, opposite Convent Hill, was perhaps never named, and was possibly of
no great length or importance. The next was probably the " Winthrop
Creek " of the old records, named for the Governor and more recently known
as Bachellor's Creek. It marked the easterly boundary of the grant of Ten
Hills Farm to him. Its source was not far from Oilman Square ; it wound
its way easterly, crossing Broadway near Walnut Street, and thence across
the Park and through the marshes to the river ; all west of Middlesex
Avenue is now filled. Following up the shore to where the new Trotting
Park now is, we come to Winter Brook ; like the hill, called so, no man now
knows why ; its source was in Polly Swamp, not far from the junction of
Lowell and Albion Streets ; thence it flowed northeasterly, crossing Broad
way near the railroad bridge, and Medford Street (in Medford) just north
west of its junction with Main Street, probably where the present water
course, its successor, is bridged.
Further on was Two-Penny Brook ; I might have said is, if a sedgy
ditch cut to straight lines, can be called a brook ; it rose near the old school
on Broadway, opposite the Simpson estate, flowing through the College and

2 2 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Robinson estates, under the Lowell Railroad, along the easterly border of
the brickyards, to the river ; forks of each of these brooks started near the
foot of Powder House Hill. The fifth stream was Alewife Brook, our
western boundary, then called by its Indian name, " Menotomy " River.
This name has many spellings in ye ancient record, one or two of which
commenced with a "W." It has also been known as "Little" River.
This is the outlet of Fresh Pond, and there is much of interest connected
with it. Into Alewife Brook ran another, from near Davis Square, westerly
into Cambridge, entering Alewife Brook near the former tanneries on North
Avenue, whence in later times it has been called Tannery Brook ; the
Somerville part of it is now a covered drain.
The hills of those old days are fast disappearing as well as the rivers,
both in name and substance. Vi'ithin a year or two the "high fielde " of
the original settlers, the "ploughed hill " of the Revolution, better known in
our day as " Nunnery " or " Convent Hill " or " Mount Benedict," will be a
memory only. Asylum Hill, which was the Miller's Hill, or Cobble Hill of
a hundred years or more ago, has the seal of destruction set upon it. The
historic heights of Prospect Hill, the Mount Pisgah of the Revolution, have
long since gone to bury the less historic shores of Miller's River.
Winthrop Hill, on the Ten Hills Farm, and the other eminences near it,
are but scarred relics of their former picturesque beauty. Winter Hill,
strange to say, so far as is known, has suffered no change since " long ago,"
either in height, contour or name ; like Winter Brook, the origin of its name
is in obscurity ; whether named for a person, or a season, is an enigma.
\^'^alnut Tree Hill, now College Hill, has probably seen little change in
shape since the Indian roamed over it. Wild Cat Hill, on the borders of
Alewife Brook, from the remotest day until recently, has remained to thrill
the mind with the possible cause for its name ; but now it is degraded to a
city gravel-bank, and will soon be gone.
Quarry Hill, smooth and polished, with little left of its antique charm,
yet remains crowned by its old tower, which, though architecturally modern
ized with cut stone archway and window, is still a historic inspiration.
Strawberry Flill, where is and where was it ? Possibly and probably, if
old records are correct, in which there is but one mention of it, east of
Beacon Street and north of Washington Street, a part of it still remaining
on the Norton's Grove estate in Cambridge. Spring Hill in name is recent,
probably, and in shape much as of yore, as is Central Hill, which on some
old Revolutionary maps is styled " Middle Hill."
In the foregoing, the endeavor has been made to retrace the natural
features of the town, and the old naming with which the earlier residents
were familiar, as well as that of more recent times.
First Settlers.
Probably the first white men who wandered over Somerville soil were
Standish and his exploring party from Plymouth in 1621.
Seven years later came a party of settlers from Salem, prospecting for

John F. Nickerson.

Cromwell G. Rowell.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 25
a place to locate in. These were "Ralph Sprague with his bretheren
Richard and William, who with three or four more" . . •• did in the sum
mer of anno 1628, undertake a journey from Salem, and travelled the woods
above twelve miles to the westward, and lighted of a place situated and
lying on the north side of Charles river, full of Indians called Aberginians,"
..." and upon surveying, they found it was a neck of land, generally full
of stately timber, as was the main, and the land lying on the east side of
the river, called Mystick river." Here on the peninsula they settled and
built, and others came soon after. In 1629, "it was jointly agreed and
concluded, that this place on the north side of Charles river, by the natives
called Mishawum, shall henceforth, from the name of the river, be called
Charlestown"; and in this connection it may be of interest to recall that
the river was named by Captain John Smith, in 1614, after H. R. H.
Charles, Prince of Wales, afterwards Charles I, who. Smith says, " did
change the barbarous names of their principall Harbours and habitations,
for such English, that posterity may say King Charles was their Godfather."
.Among the first of the Charlestown settlers to locate on Somerville territory
were John Woolrich, Captain  Norton, Edward Gibones, Mr. William Jen
nings and John Wignall ; followed a little later by Richard Palsgrave,
Edward Jones and others, and by the Governor, John Winthrop, in 1631.
It may be proper here to give a sketch of these pioneers of our town.
John V\'oolrich or Wolrich was an Indian trader ; he " built and fenced
a mile and a half without ye necke of land in ye maine, on ye right hand of
ye way to Newe Towne," which would be somewhere on the northerly side
of Washington Street, beyond the Fitchburg Railroad bridge ; perhaps
not far from Dane Street. He was prominent in affairs, and was a repre
sentative to the General Court in 1634.
Of Captain Norton, accounts are somewhat conflicting : in one reference
he is called John, in another Francis ; one record is that he was killed by the
Indians in 1633, another makes him join the church in 1642, marry in 1649,
and die in 1667. There may have been two Captain Nortons.
Major-General Edward Gibones, the most distinguished of our early
citizens, excepting Governor Winthrop, was a young man recently converted
and admitted to the church ; he ultimately rose to the rank of Major-Gen
eral in the militia, being " a man of resolute spirit " and " bold as a lion.''
He represented Charlestown in the General Court, in 1635 and 1636, and
died in 1654.
Of William Jennings and John Wignall but little is recorded.
Richard Palsgrave was the first physician of Charlestown, living in the
town several years, and died about 1656.
Edward Jones was an inhabitant in 1630, and removed to Long Island
in 1644. Palsgrave and Jones each built three-quarters of a mile beyond the
neck, on the northerly side of Washington Street, "right before the marsh,"
probably opposite the Asylum grounds.
John Winthrop, the first Governor of the Massachusetts company that

26 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
came over here (Craddock never came), was granted the Ten Hills Farm
of six hundred acres in 1631 ; it extended from the Craddock Bridge, near
Medford Centre, along the Mystic River to near Convent Hill, and em
braced all the land between Broadway, Medford Street and the River.
This was the Governor's farm where he built, lived, planted, raised cattle,
and launched the first ship in Massachusetts, the " Blessing of the Bay,"
July 4, 1631. Governor Winthrop was the ancestor of the late Hon.
Robert C. Winthrop. He was a man of liberal education and sterling
worth, a devout Christian and an honor to the Colony ; he died in 1649.

CHAI^TER II.
From Settlement to the Revolution.
Early Events. — Pasturing and Herding. — Characteristics of Early Immigrants. —
Machinery of Primitive Industries Set in Motion. — Establishment ( >f Town
Government of Charlestown. — Municipal Regulations. — Person/E non Grat.^i.
— First Highways. — The Stinted Common. — Churches and Schools. — Peti
tion of Ezekiel Cheever. — The First Town School. — Military Organizations
AND Fortifications. — King Philip's War. — Indian Allies.
Charlestown's settlers in 1629 were in all ten families, not including
Thomas Walford and wife, whom they found already there living in "his
pallisadoed and thatched house," and not including servants of the Bay
Company. Their first winter was full of discouragement ; provisions were gone
and disease so prevalent that " almost in every family lamentation, mourn
ing and woe were heard " ; " many perished and died." Added to this, the
water became bad and brackish, and Indians threatening; many left
Charlestown and removed to Boston, where the water was better. The
arrival of Capt. Pearce with a shipload of provisions, however, inspirited
them anew, and was hailed with rejoicing and thanksgiving.
The first inhabitants built around Town Hill, now Bow Street, near
Charlestown City Square. They were allotted grounds for planting on
other parts of the peninsula, which they were required to fence ; but the
grazing ground for their cattle was here in Somerville, or " without the
neck," and Somerville was in those early times known as the " Cow Com
mons," and later, as the " Stinted Pasture." The rights of pasturage were
apportioned among the citizens in 1656, and perhaps before.
A herdsman, as early as 1632, was appointed to " Keepe the Milch
Cattle of this Towne, in a herd without the necke of land upon ye maine
till the end of Harvest, and hee is to drive them forth every morning and
bring them into Towne every evening." The herdsman sounded his horn
from Town Hill each morning, to call the cattle together, in readiness for

ALVANO T. Nickerson.

Samuel W. Holt.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 29
pasture. In 1633, the salary for this official was "fifty bushels of Indian
corne." A fence with a gate was early ordered and built across the Neck, from
Mystic River to Charles River basin, to keep these cattle, and perhaps wild
beasts, from straying into the town ; for wolves were common then, and
bounties given for their destruction.
In the course of time, about the whole of Somerville was enclosed with
fencing; fencing or "paling," as it was called, extending all along the Cam
bridge line, and between the common pasture and the Ten Hills Farm, with
gates at the highways.
In speaking of highways it is but natural again to recall the first engi
neer in these parts, Mr. Thomas Graves, who came in 1629, and who, it is
supposed, laid out all earlier streets, and other works of improvement in
Charlestown. It is claimed that he was the (afterwards) noted Admiral
Thomas Graves of the English Navy.
It is quite fair to presume that he traced the routes for our infant
thoroughfares, ^^'ashington Street and Broadway.
Those early emigrants were a sturdy, tireless race ; their energy knew
no obstacle. Roads were laid out, watering places located, landings built,
bridges thrown over streams, and, where too wide for bridges, ferries estab
lished. Those to Boston and to Maiden (the latter called "Two penny ferry")
remained until after the Revolution, the only direct means of communication
between those places.
All kinds of business and trades were soon started, mills built, one
at Charlestown Neck opposite Miller's River as early as 1645, lime kilns set
up, fish-weirs established, ledges opened, and all the primitive machinery
of industry set in motion.
Among the various trades and callings found here in Charlestown be
tween 1630 and 1650 were the following : cutting of posts, clapboards and
shingles ; raising of horses for export ; farming ; fishing of various kinds,
especially for alewives, oysters, and lobsters, which were abundant in these
waters — lobsters of twenty-five pounds weight being mentioned; rope and
anchor making ; coopering ; tile making ; brewing ; salt manufacturing ; car
pentering; ship building; wheelwright work; pottery; charcoal burning;
and various kinds of mill work, there being in 1645 >" Charlestown wind,
stream, and tide mills.
A town government was very early organized, and local laws enacted,
controlling church, school, and military matters, as well as civil and crim
inal. The town officers were the " Seven men " or Selectmen, Constables,
Highway Surveyors, Town Clerk, Herdsman, Overseers of the fields, and
Chimney Sweepers, and later on. Town Treasurer, Town Messenger, In
spector of youth, Tythingmen, Surveyors of damnified goods, Clerks of the
market. Packer of fish and flesh, Corder of wood, Culler of staves. Sealers
of hides and leather, Measurers of lumber. Cullers of fish, and Measurers
of salt and coal.

30 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
The freemen of the town could vote for Governor and Deputy, and for
Major-General, Representatives, Grand Jury, and also for Assistants or
Magistrates ; in electing the latter, corn and beans were used, corn for
" yes," beans for " no." The penalty for fraud in voting was £io.
Among the wholesome regulations were those guarding against fires :
they required every house to be provided with ladders, and to be statedly
inspected, and every chimney to be swept once a month in winter, and once
every two months in summer. A blazing chimney brought a fine on the
tenant. All children must be educated and "catechised," for neglect of which
their parents answered in court.
Sabbath-breakers, tipplers, and gamblers were sharply watched, and
severely punished. One woman, for instance, was heavily fined for washing
clothes on Sunday.
Strangers in town were "personae non gratae," and had speedily to
account for themselves. A committee was appointed to " marke such trees
for shade by the Highwa[ies] and watering places as in theire discretion
shall bee thought mete ; " fine for cutting these, five shillings, and a special
order was also made that no tree " under any pretence whatsoever " should
be cut outside the Neck without the knowledge of the Selectmen.
As already stated, several of the settlers had, as early as 1629 or 1630,
located, built, and planted, here in Somerville, and in the year 1633 the
town gave liberty to any of its inhabitants to build outside the Neck, pro
vided, etc., that it " bee not a shortening of the privileges of the Towne," and
in 1634 ten persons were granted "planting ground" on the "South side
of New Towne highway," forty-one acres in all. From this time on, settle
ments on Somerville land increased, and the records show many transfers
of property in this part of Charlestown.
Highways.
The first road in Somerville was Washington Street, from the Neck to
Cambridge, described in 1630 as the "Way to New Towne" (Cambridge),
and in one place spoken of as narrow and crooked. The next was probably
the easterly part of Broadway, called " the way to Mystick," connecting,
perhaps, as early as 1637, by trail, or bye road around or over the Ten Hills
Farm, with the ford and bridge then built at Medford Centre over the
Mystic River. It was probably many years afterwards that Broadway was
extended over Winter Hill to Menotomy (now Arlington).
The Stinted Common was apportioned in 1656 among the citizens of the
town, and remained a cow pasture until 1681 and 16S5, when it was cut into
strips one-fourth of a mile wide, with numbered rangeways between them,
and granted in stated lots to the inhabitants entitled to them.
The territory thus laid out extended from Washington Street, Bow
Street and Somerville Avenue, to Broadway, and from the present Charles
town line to Elm Street. The first Rangeway is now Franklin Street ; the
second. Cross Street ; third. Walnut ; fourth. School ; fifth. Central ; sixth,

Marshall H. Locke.

Franklin N. Poor.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 33
Lowell ; seventh, Cedar ; and eighth. Willow Avenue. There were three
others, running from Broadway beyond Elm Street, into Medford. The first
has been entirely obliterated ; the second is now Curtis Street, and the
third, North Street. Churches and Schools.
Until 1632 the good people of Charlestown sought religious consolation
in the church at Boston, but in this year they separated and organized the
" First Church of Charlestown " ; their early meetings were held " under the
shade of a great oak," celebrated as the " Charlestown oak" ; it stood in or
not far from the square ; they soon purchased the "great house," no longer
used by the town, and fitted it up for a meeting house. People from the
remote parts of the town, as well as from Somerville, attended this church,
among the number, our earliest settlers, Woolrich and Jones, who are on
its membership roll. The services lasted all day, beginning at nine o'clock
or before ; and for the benefit of those living at a distance, the town built
small houses with chimneys, called " Sabbaday houses,'' as the record says,
" of a convenient largeness to give entertainment on the Lord's day to such
as live remote," etc. In November, 1882, the two hundred and fiftieth an
niversary of this church was celebrated.
It is probable that, in earlier days, all the young people of these parts
received their first teaching in the schools of the peninsula, going and re
turning over the Neck, a long and tedious walk in winter ; all the branches
were taught, from a, b, c's to Latin grammar. There seems to have been
some rivalry then, among the educators of the town, which is generously
hinted at in the petition of Ezekiel Cheever, schoolmaster of the town
school, in 1666, to the Selectmen; he had evidently been promised that no
other schoolmaster should set up in the town, but says that " now Mr.
Mansfield is suffered to teach and take away his scholars." The town
schoolhouse of that day can well be pictured from the records, which speak
of it (1686) as twelve feet square, and eight feet high, with flatfish roof,
turret for bell, and "mantle-tree " twelve feet long; ceiled with brick and
clay, and built at a cost of $90. 00. Yet in it ancient and modern lore were
for years successfully dispensed. Military.
The military prowess of the pioneers stands out boldly in their history ;
they were men of intelligence, education and piety, and the defense of
home, religion and rights was first in their thoughts. They at once began
their military organizations and their fortifications, protections against
foreign foes as well as Indians. The " Castle" in the harbor, the Fort on
" Town Hill " and the " Half moon " at the Neck, all gave a greater feeling
of security to people on the peninsula. Companies were organized, offi
cered, and drilled, and in the various struggles with the savage and the
Frenchman, Charlestown soldiers bore well their part. Among them and
pre-eminently prominent was a resident of Somerville, Major-General
Edward Gibones.

34 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
King Philip's war in particular caused much suffering and alarm among
the inhabitants ; it became necessary to impress men for the service. As a
protection from Indian attack in 1676, it was proposed, but afterwards
abandoned, to build a stockade across the country from Charles River to
the Merrimac. A company of praying Indians was also organized here in
Charlestown for this war, and did good service.
It would be pleasant to trace the part Somerville settlers bore in these
various conflicts if there were space and the records complete, which they
are not. CHAPTER III.
Advent of Andros and Consequences to the Colonists. — Titles to Estates
Imperiled. — Ten Hills Farm and its Owners. — A Favorite H(jme for
Governors. — "The Blessing of the Bay" Built and Launched. — Cafpain
Robert Temple. — Sla\e Holders in Somerville. — The First Privateer in
America. — Colonel Samuel Jaques. — The Old Powder House. — Jean Mallet.
— A Tragic Legend.
In 1686 the happiness of the people was rudely shattered by a royal
edict, appointing Sir Edmund Andros " Capt. Generall and Govr. in
Chief " over New England : it gave him royal powers to choose Coun
cillors, make laws, and assess taxes ; it constituted Andros and Councillors
a court of justice for trial of all cases, civil, criminal, and of property rights,
as well as petty cases ; also unlimited authority over matters military and
naval, thus annulling the charter of the Bay Company. A struggle ensued
which, lasting three years, ended in the revolution of 1689, the seizure
and imprisonment of Andros and others, and capture of the Castle in Boston
Harbor; and in 1692, the restoration of their old rights to the colonists.
One of the first acts of Andros was to declare all previous property
titles valueless ; the charter had not been complied with, " and, therefore,
all the lands of New England have returned to the King" ; and further, it
was declared that " wherever an Englishman sets his foot, all that he hath
is the King's." Andros angrily asserted that "there was no such a thing
as a town in the country," and that the ancient town records of titles were
"not worth a rush." In Somerville, by this action, many estates were
imperiled ; one or two of these had been in the same family half a century.
Some of the owners submitted to these cruel exactions, while others
rebelled. The greatest of these outrages was the granting of the Stinted
Pasture to Lieutenant Colonel Charles Lidgett, a follower of Andros, and
already one of the owners of Ten Hills Farm : of which, however, he also
received Andros' title of confirmation. Lidgett immediately began the
prosecution of the rightful owners of the pasture, for cutting wood and for
other alleged trespasses. They were caused much annoyance and distress ;
and in some cases were fined and imprisoned.
But Lidgett's chickens flew home to repose : in 1689, with Andros and
others, he was seized and thrown into prison, with which just retribution
ended the fraudulent title speculation.

Amos Keyes.

Seward Dodge.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 37
Ten Hills Farm.
It is especially notable that this old estate, called Ten Hills after the ten
knolls on it, should have kept for two hundred and sixty-five years the name
given it by its first owner ; though that name at present applies to only one
hundred acres or so of the original grant.
This property is one of the few in the city whose title can be clearly
traced in the records, through each conveyance, from aboriginal and royal
grants to the present time.
Besides being included in the deed from Squa-Sachem, already quoted,
it is, of course, within the limits of the royal grant to Plymouth Colony in
1620, and in the Plymouth grant and Royal Confirmation to the Massa
chusetts Bay Company in 162S and 1629.
By the Massachusetts Bay Company's Governor and Council it was
granted direct to John Winthrop.
The record reads : —
"6 Sept., 163 1 — Granted to Mr. Governor, six hundred acres of land,
to be set forth by metes and bounds, near his house at Mistick, to enjoy to
him and his heirs forever."
The claim of the Andros government, that none of the settlers held any
title whatever to their lands, did not hold good regarding this estate. It
was the only one in this city, however, that was granted by the Bay Com
pany. On the death of the Governor, in 1649, the property fell to his son John,
Jr., Governor of Connecticut, by whose executors it was deeded, in 1677, to
Elizabeth Lidgett, widow of Peter Lidgett, a merchant of Boston. She
deeded one-half of it to her son Charles, the same year. The Lidgetts and
their heirs, among them the wife and children of Lieutenant-Governor
Usher of New Hampshire, deeded a portion of it, in 1731, to Sir Isaac
Royal, the most of which is in Medford, five hundred and four acres.
The remainder, or Somerville portion, two hundred and fifty-one acres,
they sold to Captain Robert Temple, in 1740 ; on his death, it fell to his son
Robert, Jr., the " Royalist," who retained it until after the Revolution, selling,
in 1780, to Nathaniel Tracy of Newburyport, and he, in 1785, to Honora
ble Thomas Russell, who again sold it, in 1791, to Captain George Lane.
Later it was owned by Theodore Lyman : and then by Ellas Hasket Derby
of Salem; afterwards it became the property of Colonel Samuel Jaques,
then of Samuel Oakman, and finally of ihe present owners, the heirs of
Fred Ames and F. O. Reed and others.
It is noticeable that Ten Hills, if not continuously a gubernatorial
demesne, has in all times been held in some favor by governors and their
relatives and associates : first, Winthrop, Governor of Massachusetts ; then
his son, Governor of Connecticut; then the wife of Lieutenant-Governor
Usher ; then by Robert Temple, son of the Governor of Nova Scotia ; then
by Robert, Jr., whose wife was the daughter of Governor Shirley ; then by
Royal and Russell, each a governor's councillor ; and now by the heirs of
the brother of Governor Ames.

38 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
There is much of interest akin to romance in the annals of this old
property ; and in the lives and doings of its various owners.
Its first proprietor settled on it when it was in all its original wildness,
built his house and barns, planted his gardens and orchards, raised his
cattle, and hunted and fished through its woods and along its shores. In
the record he kept, he gives one picture of his life here, under date of
October ii, 1631: "The Governor being at his farmhouse in Mistick,
walked out after supper and took a piece in his hand, supposing he might
see a wolf (for they came daily about the house and killed swine and calves,
etc.) and, being about half a mile off, it grew suddenly dark, so as in coming
home he mistook his path, and went till he came to a little house of Saga
more John, which stood empty. There he stayed, and having a piece of
match in his pocket (for he always carried about him match and compass
and in the summertime snake weed), he made a good fire near the house,
and lay down upon some old mats, which he found there, and so spent the
night, sometimes walking by the fire, sometimes singing psalms and some
times getting wood, but could not sleep. It was (through God's mercy) a
warm night ; but a little before day it began to rain, and having no cloak,
he made shift by a long pole to climb up into the house. " In the morning "
..." he returned safe home, his servants having walked about, and shot off
pieces, and halloed in the night, but he heard them not."
It was here, at Ten Hills, that he built and launched the first ship built
in this Colony, which records mention as follows: "July 4, [1631]. The
Governor built a bark at Mistick, which was launched this day, and called
' The Blessing of the Bay.' "
In November, 1631, his wife with some of their children arrived from
England in the ship Lyon ; the event caused great rejoicing. " The ship
gave them six or seven pieces," " the captains with their companies in arms
entertained them with a guard and divers volleys of shot, and three drakes "
(cannon) ; people from the near plantations welcomed them and brought in
great store of provisions, "fat hogs, kids, venison, poultry, geese, part
ridges " and other contributions. " The like joy and manifestations of love
had never been seen in New England."
Meanwhile the Governor had established himself in Boston, probably
his winter home at first, but afterwards his permanent abode ; this was on
Washington Street between Spring Lane and Milk Street, his house, which
was framed in Charlestown, being at the corner of Spring Lane. The Old
South Church occupies his front yard, or " green."
Colonel Charles Lidgett has already been noticed in the account of the
Andros trouble.
Captain Robert Temple was the son of Thomas Temple, once Governor
of Nova Scotia. Robert Temple, Jr., the " Royalist," as he has been called,
was brother of Sir John, first Consul-General from England to the United
States, and uncle of Sir Grenville Temple, both baronets in England ; Sir
John married the daughter of Governor Bowdoin ; and Robert, Jr., the
daughter of Governor Shirley. Thus connected with Royalists and perhaps.

Hri •7:
o5•X.
oc

3:

m
oo a:
PDo S
z
enO z

Residence of Henry E. Wright, 31 Pearl Street.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 4 1
very naturally, not showing intense enthusiasm in the patriot cause. Temple
was looked on as a tory, and when, in May, 1775, he started on a journey to
England, he was seized by the Committee of Safety of Cohasset, and sent to
Boston, where, after inspecting his letters and questioning him personally,
it was recommended that he be treated as " a friend to the interests of this
country, and the rights of all America."
The Temples were slave-holders, though probably not the only ones in
Somerville. It was during the occupancy by Temple that the British landed at his
wharf on their raid to the Powder House and Cambridge.
Nathaniel Tracy, the next owner, was said to be " generous and patri
otic." He fitted out the first privateer in America during the Revolution, and
his firm did a large business in that line, losing many, yet reaping, finally,
a rich harvest.
Thomas Russell, who bought of Tracy, was a " merchant prince,'' a rep
resentative to the General Assembly, and an executive councillor. He sold
to George Lane, a sea captain.
Elias Hasket Derby, merchant, of Salem, who owned the place and
lived here for some time, was a man of note ; he was wealthy and enter
tained sumptuously. His son died here in 1801.
Colonel Samuel Jaques, who made the "Ten Hills" famous in the ear
lier days of this century, had his title from a long service in the militia and
in the war of 1812. His farm was stocked with horses, cattle, sheep and
deer ; he had his pack of hounds, and that he was the famed Nimrod of these
parts, many a wily fox could testify.
The destruction of the mansion and slave-quarters in 1877, and digging
down of Winthrop Hill, is too recent to require further mention. It is now
a dismal wreck, let it be hoped that the construction of the elaborate park
way proposed across it, and a more liberal pohcy in the improvement of its
surroundings, will restore the locality at no distant day to something of its
former importance and beauty.
Old Powder House.
Where a long-abandoned ledge
Breaks the brow of a grass-grown hill.
Near its crumbled and mossy edge
Stands the old deserted mill.
Like a sentinel keeping watch and ward over neighboring fields and
highways, the old round tower on the ancient quarry's brink has stood for
nearly two centuries. Around it cluster obscurity, legend and history, those
charms of antiquity, and they have hung over it a mantle so attractive as to
render it one of the most interesting of relics. It stands on Quarry Hill,
called also in the quaint nomenclature of old, "Two penny brooke quarry,"
which winding meadow stream it overlooked.
The knoll, with its adjacent lands, was at the extreme of the Stinted

42 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Pasture, at the division of which in 1685 it was allotted to Sergeant Richard
Lowden, some nine or ten acres in all, long before which it had been worked
as a quarry. .After Richard's death, his son and executor sold the estate to
Jonathan Foskett, and Foskett, in February, 1703-4, to "Jean Mallet," a
shipwright, afterwards a miller, and who very likely built the curious old
mill, though no record tells us so. Jean Mallett was a Huguenot, and
probably came from France with many others, to these more congenial
shores, shortly after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, in 1685, settling
unwisely, to say the least, in Worcester County, in what is now the town of
Oxford, then a border wilderness, but which these Huguenots soon
turned into blossoming fields and fruitful gardens; here they lived in
contentment and security for many years, but in 1696 the Indians descended
on their settlement and a dreadful massacre ensued. The survivors aban
doned their plantations, and most of them came to Boston ; among these was
Mallet, who, awhile after, we find here in Somerville. Little more is known
of him except that he died about 1720, leaving the old stone windmill to his
son Michael, who in 1747 sold it to the State for a powder-magazine ; prob
ably long before this its millstones had ceased to grind, though undoubt
edly for many long years the old miller took his lawful toll of "one to
sixteen " from the farmers for miles around.
A tragic legend shrouds the old mill, told of a captive Acadian maiden
who, disguised as a youth, flees from her cruel master and seeks refuge
in the family of the old miller ; his rooms are few and accommodations
scanty ; so the maid is given lodging in the old mill-loft, dusty and dismal.
In the night comes her master ; he has traced her here, and with smooth
speech and specious story induces the miller to unlock the mill ; the master
clambers clumsily up the ladder, reaches the loft and tries to seize his
victim ; in the unfamiliar darkness he loses his foothold, plunges to the
mill floor, clutching the rope as he falls. The great fans move, the mill
stone rolls hoarsely around, and soon all is over. The exile maiden is once
more free.
It is a curious, grewsome story ; let us trust that it is only a legend.

The Old Powder House.

JOHN C. MAGOUN.

Chester Guild.

JOSEPH Clark.

Charles E. Oilman.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 45

CHAPTER IV.
The Revolution.
Friction Between the Colonies and Home Govern-ment. — Preparations for the
Great Struggle. — Seizure of Powder. — First Hostile Demon.stration of
the Revolution. — The Whole Country in Arms. — Resignation of Lieut.-
GovERNOR Thomas Oliver. — Arbitrary Measures of the British Government.
— Secretion of Arms and Distribution of Military Supplies by the Colo
nists. — Hostile Steps taken by the British. — The Patriots Warned. — Paul
Revere's Ride. — Batile of Lexington. — Roads in Somerville Traversed by
British Troops. — Battle of Bunker Hill. — Vivid Scenes.
The Boston Port Bill, enacted March 31, 1774, was the punishment
inflicted on the Americans for the destruction of the East India Company's
tea ; it prohibited all commerce, export or import, with Boston and Charles
town, and brought disaster and distress upon both cities, the ferries even
being included in the embargo. All business was suspended, and the
sufferings of both rich and poor were great. Neighboring towns came to
their relief with food and fuel; committees were appointed to devise reme
dies, and arrangements made to quarter the most needy families upon other
towns of the State.
The friction between the colonies and the home government had grown
steadily for ten years, and a frowning fleet and formidable army, sent to
enforce various odious enactments, increased to the utmost the spirit of
resistance. The Americans for a long time had been actively preparing for a
struggle they believed imminent, and quietly collecting arms, accoutrements,
ammunition and stores.
In this way it occurred that the powder of several towns was stored in
the powder house on Quarry Hill ; fearing for its safety, in the summer of
1774, some of the towns began removing it. This powder and also that
belonging to the Province, as well as other military stores, were in the
custody of Maj. Gen. William Brattle, of Cambridge, and to him General
Gage wrote, in August, asking a return or schedule of " the different sorts
of each." Brattle in his reply of August 29, speaking of powder, says that
that in the arsenal at Quarry Hill, was " the King's powder only." Medford
had just taken the last belonging to any of the towns.
On August 31, Sheriff Phipps called upon Brattle, with orders for the
remaining powder and for two cannon at Cambridge ; in compliance Brattle

46 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
delivered up the key of the powder house, and ordered Mr. Mason, who
was in charge of the cannon, to deliver them also.
On the next day, September i, 1774, occurred the first hostile demon
stration of the Revolution ; by a miracle, almost, it ended without bloodshed.
It is described in the news of the day as follows : —
"On Thursday Morning [Sept. 1 ], half after four, about 260 Troops
embarked on board 13 Boats at the Long Wharf, and proceeded up Mystic
River to Temple's Farm, where they landed, and went to the Powder-
House on Qpiarry Hill, in Charlestown Bounds, whence the)' took 212 Half
Barrels of Powder, the whole store there, and conveyed it to Castle
William." ..." A detachment from this corps went to Cambridge and
brought off two field pieces, which had latety been sent there for Col.
Brattle's regiment."
Another account says that " 250 " half-barrels of powder were taken.
These troops were under the command of Lt. Col. Madison, and in
Boston it was believed that they had gone out to capture the Committee of
Conference at Salem, who were promptly notified; but when their actual
destination was discovered, the alarm spread like wild-fire throughout the
countr)', to the north, west and south, even to Pennsylvania.
Before night there was a general uprising of the militia of the State,
and the next day, along the roads in all directions, were squads of men
marching towards Cambridge, ready to repel the invaders.
As was natural, the news of the raid was heightened by sensational
accounts of fighting and bloodshed. Boston had been bombarded by the
fleet, and Americans killed and wounded.
It was estimated that fifty thousand " well armed " men had responded
to this alarm : "the whole country was in arms " ; they came not only from
Middlesex and the adjacent counties, but from the western parts of the
State, and even from Connecticut.
They poured into Cambridge, and assembled by thousands on the
Common. It was an orderly throng, but determined. The Crown officers
were alarmed ; Judge Danforth and Judge Lee addressed the assemblage,
and both expressing regret at having accepted appointments under acts so
obnoxious to their fellow citizens, then and there resigned their offices, and
promised never again to accept any position in conflict with the charter
rights of the people.
Phipps, the high sheriff, appeared also ; he was aggrieved at the feel
ings of the people towards him for his action in delivering up their powder,
but in view of the fact that he acted under orders from his commander in
chief, his offense was condoned.
Lieut.-Governor Thomas Oliver lived then in the mansion which since
was the home of the poet Lowell. Several thousand people, militia and
" lookers on," appeared before his house. Previously he had parleyed and
hesitated, fearing His Majesty's displeasure if he should resign, as requested
to do, but intimating that he might do so if the whole province desired it ;
but now, seeing the determined spirit of the people, and the uselessness of

Francis Tufts.

Nathan A. Fitch.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 49
further refusal, he signed his resignation as Lieutenant-Governor and
President of the Council.
Meanwhile Brattle, who by his prominence in this affair had brought
upon himself the indignation of the inhabitants, fled to Boston, and
sought refuge in the fold of General Gage, whence he wrote a woeful story
of his wrongs and banishment, claiming to be a friend of his country,
acting for its true interest, yet expressing himself sorry for what had oc
curred. Meantime the wild rumors afloat had been contradicted, and the people
returned again to their homes and employments, and all seemed as tranquil
as before. This great uprising was the rumble of the approaching storm, and
warning of the coming tempest. Paul Revere's Ride.
The English Parliament and press during the winter of 1774-5 dis
cussed vigorously the dispute with the Colonists ; among each were friends
to America ; but the Ministerial party were in the majority, and, urged on
by the King and Lords, endeavored to enforce the most arbitrary measures,
among which were further restrictions on trade and the act forbidding
importation into the colonies of arms and munitions of war.
This last act caused much alarm, and the Americans took immediate
steps to secrete and protect the military supplies already accumulated.
These were distributed among various towns, one of which was Con
cord. Gage learned this, and determined on their capture, divining which,
the patriots took precautions to prevent. A company of thirty men
arranged with each other to watch "two and two" the movements of the
British ; among these were William Dawes and Paul Revere. Several days
previous to April 19, the unusual activity of the troops and fleet announced
to the Americans that some important movement by the enemy was
contemplated. John Hancock and Samuel Adams, who were in Lexington, were
cautioned that Gage intended their capture. About this time the wife of a
British soldier carelessly divulged the order for the expedition to a lady
who employed her, who promptly gave the patriots warning. William
Dawes was immediately sent by way of Roxbury and Paul Revere by way
of Charlestown, to alarm the inhabitants. Revere crossed Charles River
past the frigate Somerset just before orders were received to stop all
boats, and taking horse on the Charlestown shore, rode with all speed over
the Neck and up Washington Street, to near the present Cresent Street;
here he saw two horsemen standing in the road a short distance away;
perceiving that they were British officers, he wheeled and galloped back to
the Neck, and around into Broadway, pursued by one of the horsemen; the
other endeavored to head him off by crossing the fields, but fell into a
clay pit, thus enabling Revere to escape. He rode over Winter Hill and
Main Street, to and through Medford and Arlington, to Lexington and

50 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
beyond, where he was captured ; not, however, until he had thoroughly
alarmed the country. At the junction of Broadway and Main Street stands
a granite tablet commemorating this historic ride.
Battle of Lexington.
At about ten o'clock on the night of April 18, 1775, Lieutenant Colonel
Smith of the Tenth British, with eight hundred men, marched quietly to the
foot of Boston Common, and crossed Back Bay in boats to Lechmere Point,
now East Cambridge, landing not very far east of the present Court House ;
the troops, avoiding the roads and highlands for fear of discovery, skirted
the marshes ; and the tide being up, or rising, and East Cambridge then an
island at high water, they were obliged to wade "thigh deep" in crossing
to Somerville, where, striking a byway, they emerged upon Washington
Street, probably at or near Prospect Street; thence their march was through
^\'ashington Street, Union Square, Bow Street, Somerville Avenue and Elm
Street, and thence to Concord.
In those days, an old house, owned or occupied by a widow Smith,
stood on the east side of the present Wesley Park ; here the troops halted
and quenched their thirst at the well, and were seen by the frightened occu
pants of the house.
Next they passed the residence of Samuel Tufts (now Mr. Blaisdell's),
who was in the kitchen at the time, moulding bullets ; thence on past
Thomas Rand's house ; Mrs. Rand, who had not yet retired, saw the
threatening platoons, and after they had gone by sent her son to alarm the
neighbors. Then they came to Timothy Tufts' house on Elm Street, near
Beach, stopping there again for water. Mr. Tufts' dog woke the echoes of
the night, and also the family with his vehement protests. Peering out, they
saw the hostile columns and flash of the bayonets in the moonlight, and
then saw the soldiers turn into Beach Street and disappear, as they con
tinued their silent march.
Their encounters at Lexington Common and at Concord Bridge, and
their disastrous retreat, reinforced and perhaps saved from capture by Lord
Percy, yet still flying, harassed and relentlessly pursued by the Americans,
have become notable events in the world's history. Like a rabble rout they
came down Arlington Avenue into Cambridge and Somerville. The Ameri
cans supposed they would retreat as Percy came, through old Cambridge,
Brighton, and Roxbury ; but a confused throng, they turned through Beach
Street into Elm. At the westerly corner of these streets was a grove, where
minute men were secreted, who gave the troops a galling fire. The British
who fell here were buried in Mr. Tufts' land, just inside the wall.
Percy, who at every available point had endeavored to check the pur
suit with his artillery, again opened fire with his cannon, from the northerly
slope of Spring Hill, on the pursuing minute men, but with little avail ; his
troops continued their retreat down Elm Street and Somerville Avenue, one
man being killed near Central Street, at which point a volley was fired into
Mr. Rand's house, and near Walnut Street another soldier fell. Down

AL1jli\ 1 L-. LJuDGE,

David Cummings.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .IND PRESENT. 53
Washington Street they went, skirting the foot of Prospect Hill, where oc
curred some of the hottest fighting of the day.
It was now evening, and the flashes of musketry, which were plainly
seen in Boston, told vividly the story of their retreat and disaster.
Throughout the retreat, wherever possible, flanking parties of British
had been sent out to drive off the minute men.
The only Somerville citizen who fell on this day was shot by the flank
guards. He was James Miller, an old man and patriot.
He with others were on the slope of Prospect Hill, firing on the British
in the street below, when the flankers surprised them ; the rest fled, but
Miller, still firing, stood at his post, and when called upon to fly made tlie
memorable answer, " I am too old to run."
On the north side of Washington Street, nearly opposite Mystic Street,
is the house then owned by Samuel Shed ; a British soldier entered it, and
while rummaging a bureau, was shot, falling dead over the drawer ; this
bureau, or "high boy," as it was called, with its bullet holes, is now in pos
session of the descendants of Nathan Tufts.
The British flight and pursuit continued until they had crossed the
Neck into Charlestown, which they did just as Colonel Pickering, with seven
hundred Essex minute men, came hurrying over Winter Hill, to intercept
them. Had he arrived a little earlier the entire force would have been
captured. During the battle. General William Heath assumed command; after the
Americans had ceased further pursuit, he " assembled the officers around
him, at the foot of Prospect Hill, and ordered a guard to be formed and
posted near that place." This was the first guard mountingof the Revolution.
Sentinels and patrols were also posted near the Neck, to give warning of the
enemy's movements. The minute men were ordered to Cambridge, where
all night they lay on their arms.
The battle of the nineteenth of April began at Lexington, and ended
in Somerville, and in its glory Somerville is entitled to share.
Battle of Bunker Hill.
On April 20, General Artemas Ward, the senior in date of commission,
took command of the American forces, with headquarters at Cambridge,
whence, under the resolve of the Provincial Congress for the enlistment of
thirty thousand men, the militia from all directions began to march.
Within a short time there were fifteen thousand troops, or more, in the
American camp, among them many from New Hampshire, Rhode Island,
and Connecticut.
Early in May, a report was made to the Committee of Safety, recom
mending the immediate fortifying of Prospect Hill and vicinity, and of
Bunker Hill ; and probably not long after, earthworks were thrown up near
Union Square, commanding the Charlestown road (Washington Street).
Troops meanwhile were posted both in Roxbury and Somerville, to repel
any attempt that might be made by the enemy to march out of Boston.

54 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Roxbury Neck had been fortified the previous winter by the British, and
now bristled with thirty cannon or more, but Charlestown was still neutral
ground. Gage probably fearing to divide his forces by its occupation.
The measure suggested in May for fortifying Bunker Hill was not
finally decided on until June 15, when rumors became prevalent that the
British were again planning to march out into the country.
On the i6th. General Ward ordered Col. William Prescott, with three
Massachusetts regiments, and a batallion of Connecticut troops, about a
thousand or twelve hundred in all, to proceed that night to Charlestown
and seize and fortify Bunker Hill. The troops were paraded on Cambridge
Common, and after a prayer by Dr. Langdon, President of Harvard College,
at about nine o'clock in the evening, commenced their march towards
Bunker Hill, passing through Somerville, by way of Washington Street and
Union Square, down to and across the Neck. Colonel Prescott, with two
sergeants carrying dark lanterns, led the waj'.
General Israel Putnam and Colonel Richard Gridley, the engineer of
the army, accompanied the expedition, and following after were wagons
with intrenching tools. Their destination was kept a profound secret from
the troops until after crossing the Neck.
Prescott had been ordered to fortify Bunker Hill, but it was soon
discovered that Breed's Hill was a superior military position, and after
consultation, and some loss of time, it was determined to fortify that in
place of Bunker.
Col. Gridley immediately laid out the works, which, rising as if by magic,
confronted and challenged the British fleet and army at sunrise.
The details of the battle on Bunker Hill are familiar to all, and only
such events connected with it as occurred in Somerville need be related.
For some time previous to the 17th, Colonel John Patterson's regiment
of Berkshire men had been stationed at the redoubt near the foot of Pros
pect Hill, where they probably remained throughout the day, having been,
with Ward's regiment and part of Bridge's, held back as a reserve. All
other Massachusetts troops, and those of New Hampshire and Connecticut,
were ordered to the front. A great part of them never arrived there, the
furious cannonading from the fleet across the Neck, and into East Somer
ville, rendering any attempt to reach the peninsula perilous. Yet it was
over this Neck, and through this storm of shot and shell, that the terror-
stricken people fled into Somerville from their burning homes in Charles
town. Early in the fight, Major Gridley, son of the engineer, was ordered with
his company of artillery to reinforce Prescott ; he was a young man with
but little military experience, and instead of obeying orders, he took a
position, with a portion of his force, on Cobble, now Asylum Hill ; the rest
of his company marched on to the scene of action. Col. Mansfield's regi
ment passing forward at this time with orders to the front, was directed by
Gridley to support his battery, which disobeyed previous instructions.
Mansfield did so, and also took a position on Cobble Hill. From this hill

Frederick G. Smith, M. D.

Daniel D. Dunklee.

SOMERVILLE, P.IST AND PRESENT. 57
Gridley opened a feeble and ineffectual fire from his light guns upon the
British ships which lay in the bay east of the hill.
Disobedience, or misunderstanding of orders, seemed to be a common
occurrence. Colonel Scammon's regiment had also been ordered to the
field of battle, which he curiously interpreted to mean Lechmere Point, now
East Cambridge, and thither went. From there, however, he soon crossed
to Cobble Hill and reinforced Gridley, and later on marched as far as
Bunker Hill, but too late to be of service. Colonel Gerrish's regiment, also
under orders to reinforce Prescott, found lodgment on Ploughed, now
Convent Hill ; part of the regiment later were led into action by a brave
officer, named Febiger, and did valiant service.
Gridley, Mansfield, Scammons, and Gerrish, were each court-martialed.
Gridley, Mansfield and Gerrish were cashiered, and Scammons acquitted ;
Gridley on account of his youth not being deprived of the right to hold
future commission in the Continental Army.
Somerville beheld vivid scenes of war that day : incessant marching of
troops towards the front, over Washington Street to Broadway ; citizens
fleeing here from their burning town ; officers galloping to and fro between
the battlefield and Cambridge ; artillery bombarding the fleet from Asylum
Hill; shot and shell from the frigates mercilessly raking the easterly part
of the town ; fugitives and wounded soldiers, on litters or the shoulders of
their comrades, hurrying to places of safety ; and finally the retreating army,
who, victorous in defeat, planted themselves on Prospect and Winter Hills,
expecting and ready for a renewal of the battle.

CHAPTER V.
The Siege of Boston. — Intrenchments Made. — Exchange of Prisoners. — Battle
OF Hog Island. — Gage's Proclamation of Amnesty. — Fortificvpions on
Prospect .vnd Winter Hills. — Arrival of Generals Washington, Putnam
AND Lee. — Declaration of the Co.ntinental Congress. — Description of the
Patriots' Camps. — Sufferings of the People and Troops. — First Unfurling
OF the New Flag of the United Colonies. — Seizure of Dorchester Heights.
— Evacuation of Boston by the British.
The investment of Boston began on the night of the battle of Lexing
ton, when General Heath posted the guard at the foot of Prospect Hill.
Speaking of that battle a British officer says, " About seven o'clock in
the evening we arrived at Charlestown." . . . "The rebels shut up the
Neck and placed sentinels there." ..." So that in the course of two days
we were reduced to the disagreeable necessity of living on salt provisions,
and fairly blocked up in Boston."
The posting of troops in Somerville and Roxbury shortly afterwards,
to check any attempt of the enemy to again leave Boston, and the building
of fortifications near Union Square and the Cambridge line, the first works

58 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
thrown up by the Americans in this war, convinced the British that a siege
was actually begun.
In the latter part of May General Burgoyne arrived in Boston, and
writing to a friend in England, says, speaking of the town, that it is
" invested by a rabble in arms, who, flushed with success and insolence,
had advanced their sentries to pistol shot of our outguards ; the ships in
the harbor exposed to, and expecting a cannonade or bombardment."
The incidents of this siege crowded one upon another in quick succes
sion, and we can more readily chronicle them by noting each in the order
of its occurrence. The earlier operations of the siege were probably
desultory, and dictated by circumstances.
In the interim between the battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill,
many events of interest took place.
On April 20 the Americans held their first council of war, at which
were Generals Ward, Heath and Whitcomb, with many other Massachu
setts officers, some of whom figured prominently in the battle of June 17,
notably Colonel William Prescott. Communication between the people of
Boston and those outside was immediately cut off by Gage, who expressed
fears to the Selectmen that the Americans would attack the town, and might
be aided by its citizens, which would cause serious results; accordingly,
on April 22, a town meeting was held, resulting in an agreement allowing
all women and children who desired, to leave " with all their effects " ; and
" their men also ," by solemnly engaging not to "take up arms against the
King's troops, " " should an attack be made " ; a further condition being
that all firearms and ammunition be delivered up. This was reciprocated
by the Provincial Congress, who gave to all outsiders who might wish, per
mission to enter Boston on similar terms ; and officers were stationed at the
" Sun Tavern " at Charlestown Neck, and also in Roxbury, to issue passes
therefor. Under this arrangement nearly thirty-five hundred weapons
were taken by the British, and never returned. For a while Gage kept
the agreement in good faith, but later, at the instance of Tory advisers, he
threw many obstacles in the way of those leaving, such as searching goods,
separating families, etc., and finally forbade their leaving the town.
The battle of Lexington was fought by men from Eastern Massachu
setts, but immediately thereafter troops from other sections and States
began to arrive, notably from New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Connec
ticut, and later on from Pennsylvania and Virginia.
In May fatigue parties were sent out and intrenchments were com
menced in Cambridge and Somerville. On the 27th and 2Sth the battle of
Hog Island occurred, brought on by a detachment sent from this camp to
capture live stock on Hog and Noddle's islands (the latter now East Boston) ;
while doing this they were attacked by the King's troops and ships, but
escaped to the main land during the night ; re-inforced by infantry and
artillery, they resumed the conflict the next day, and succeeded in blowing
up one of the British schooners and disabling a sloop ; the trophies of this
engagement were twelve cannon, more than three hundred head of horses,

'^muf

William E. Weld.

Francis M. Howes.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

6i

cows and sheep, and a large quantity of hay ; with the re-inforcements came
Generals Putnam and Warren, the latter serving as volunteer ; our loss was
light in this engagement, but the enemy's was said to be heavy.
On June 6 the first exchange of prisoners took place ; through Somer
ville the procession passed. Generals Putnam and Warren riding in a
phaeton, accompanied by three captive English officers in a chaise, and by
wounded prisoners in carts, all under military escort. At the ferry they met
Gage's officers, with whom came the American captives. The exchange
was soon over, the whole affair being " conducted with the utmost decency
and good humor."

tufts' house, headquarters of general lee.

On June 12 Gage issued his notorious proclamation of amnesty to all
except Hansock and Adams, which offer the Americans answered five days
later at Breed's Hill.
This engagement was the one great battle of the noted siege, and the
only one where the two armies met in force. For nine months thereafter it
was one continuous artillery duel, accompanied with sharpshooting and
skirmishing. A curious rumor was circulated after this battle, that the British pur
suit had been continued to Winter Hill, where the Americans had again
repulsed the British with great slaughter. It was only a rumor, however.
After falling back to Winter and Prospect Hills, on June 17, the pro
vincial troops immediately commenced fortifying those eminences ; the

62 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
works on Prospect Hill were built under the direction of that wolf-renowned
hero, Putnam. On this hill the men were subjected to a heavy artillery fire
from the British, who thus attempted to dislodge them ; with no result,
however, except to inure the provincials to the howling of shot and shell.
Meanwhile the New Hampshire men under General Folsom were forti
fying \\'inter Hill.
During the month of June smallpox broke out and became epidemic,
causing great distress to the besiegers, and the people of the towns where
thejr were quartered.
On July 2, there arrived in camp General Washington, recently ap
pointed Commander-in-Chief, accompanied by General Charles Lee, second
in command, and Horatio Gates, Adjutant General of the Army. Both
Gates and Lee had been officers in the British service, but had now
espoused the cause of the Americans.
Lee was an eccentric military genius ; he was looked upon by many of
the wisest patriots as scarcely inferior to Washington in loyalty or capacity ;
he had a great reputation as a soldier, having been in service since boy
hood. He was an officer at the age of eleven, and had served in the British,
Portuguese, and Polish armies, in the latter acting as aid-de-camp to the
king ; and now he had placed his sword at the service of America, and for
a long time seemed its most devoted champion, but later his inordinate
ambition brought disagreement with Washington ; and, after several un
pleasant episodes, he was court-martialed and suspended for one year.
Within a few years, documents have come to light tending to show that
Lee, toward the last of his service, played a double part ; but while here, he
was a " tower of strength " to the army, and, as commander of the most of
that portion of it in Somerville, his career has more than usual interest to
us. All the State organizations on July 4 were taken into the service and
pay of the United Colonies, and re-organized, and on July 22 were formed
into three divisions, viz : —
The left wing was composed of two brigades, one at Winter Hill under
General Sullivan, the other at Prospect Hill under General Greene. The
center, two brigades, one commanded by Heath, the other by its senior of
ficer ; and the right also two, one under Thomas, the other under Spencer.
The left held the line from Mystic River to Prospect Hill ; the center,
from Prospect Hill to Charles River ; the right, from Charles River to
Roxbury Neck. The entire left wing, and perhaps half of the center, were
within Somerville limits, and her hills were crowned with the strongest and
most elaborate works of the whole line : the redoubt on Ten Hills Farm ;
the " \\'inter Hill Fort " ; the " French Redoubt," on Central Hill ; the
" Citadel,'' on Prospect Hill ; the strong intrenchments on Ploughed Hill,
which commanded the Neck, and defied the British on Bunker Hill ; " Fort
Number Three," near Union Square; and "Putnam's Impregnable For
tress," on Cobble Hill ; each must have reminded Gage of the similar work
he had captured at so great a sacrifice, on June 17, and brought to his mind

Henry M. Moore.

Caleb L. Sanborn.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

65

the question asked in England, viz, " If it cost a thousand men to take
Bunker Hill, how mmy will it cost to capture all the hills in America ? "
On July 6, 1775, the Continental Congress issued a declaration setting
forth the grievances of the Provinces, and reasons for taking arms ; on the
15 th this was read at Cambridge, and on the 18th, to the army on Prospect
Hill, and was received with patriotic enthusiasm. A prayer was offered by
the Reverend Mr. Langdon, cannon were fired, and the Connecticut flag,
recently received by Putnam, unfurled. On one side it bore the motto,
" An Appeal to Heaven," and on the other, " Qui transtulet sustinet."

headquarters of general GREENE.

The American riflemen seriously annoyed the English, and cost them
many lives. Most of these were sharpshooters from \'irginia and Pennsyl
vania, and, having been accustomed to the rifle from childhood, were all
skillful marksmen. The American soldiers were aggressive, and made fre
quent and often successful attempts to surprise the enemy's pickets, burn
their buildings, or capture their stores, and the British in their turn occa
sionally ventured outside their lines on similar errands, but usually with
less success.Some of the diarists of that time have left us interesting pictures of
camp and conflict ; one, the Reverend William Emerson, father of Ralph
^^'aldo, who was chaplain in the army, says : " My quarters are at the foot of
the famous Prospect Hill, where such great preparations are made for the

66 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
reception of the enemy. It is very diverting to walk among the camps " ;
" some are made of boards, and some of sail-cloth, some partly of one and
partly of the other. Again, others are made of stone and turf, brick or
brush," "others curiously wrought with doors and windows, done with
wreaths and withes, in the manner of a basket."
Another, in September, speaks of the success, so far, of the British.
" Britain, at the e.xpense of three millions, has killed one hundred and fift5-
Yankees in this campaign, which is twenty thousand pounds a head ; and
on Bunker Hill she gained a mile of ground, half of which she has since
lost by not having post on Ploughed Flill" ; and adds that, "as meanwhile
sixty thousand children have been born in America," one can " easilj' calcu
late the time and expense requisite to kill us all, and conquer our whole
territory." In August, there were under Washington's command about forty regi
ments, or something less than twenty thousand men, poorly supplied, and
with so little ammunition that the firing from our lines from necessit}'
nearly ceased. This scarcit}' of powder caused great alarm among the Amer
ican officers, as the English appeared to be preparing for an attack. Re
garding it. Colonel Reed wrote, " The word 'powder ' sets us all on tiptoe ;
we are in a terrible situation, occasioned by a mistake in a return. We
reckoned upon three hundred quarter casks, and had but thirty-two barrels."
Early in the month of September about eight hundred men were de
tached from the army to join General Arnold's unfortunate Quebec expedi
tion, a large part being from Prospect Hill, mostly riflemen.
In October, Gage having returned to England, General Howe assumed
command, and soon issued a proclamation prohibiting anyone from leaving
Boston unless by his permission, on pain of execution as a traitor. They were
also forbidden to carry out more than five pounds in specie, the penalty be
ing forfeiture, fine and imprisonment. These measures compelled Wash
ington to issue orders of retaliation upon the Tories.
At this time, and afterwards, the people and troops in Boston are said
to have suffered severely from want, increased greatty by the loss of ships
laden with provisions and stores, captured by our privateers. They were
" almost in a state of starvation, for the want of food and fuel,'' and " being
totally destitute of vegetables, flour and fresh provisions, had actually been
obliged to feed on horse flesh." On the 9th of November, a force of four
hundred British crossed in boats to Lechmere Point, intending to capture
the stock there, but, the alarm being given, the Americans waded across to
meet them, a skirmish ensued in which the English ships took part, but
which resulted, as usual, in the retirement of his majesty's troops.
On the night of the 22d, General Putnam took possession of Cobble
Hill, and commenced fortifying. The work was skillfully planned and very
strong, and contrary to expectation, completed without molestation from
the enemy. In December, Lechmere Point was also fortified, but the work on this
hill was thrown up under a continuous fire of shot and grape from the

Charles Williams, Jr.

Arthur E. Merrill, M. D.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 69
British, which lasted several days. In this action the fort on Cobble Hill
took part with good effect, forcing an English ship to retire from the fight.
On December 28, an endeavor was made by a detachment from Winter
Hill to capture the enemy's pickets near the Neck. They attempted to
cross on the ice just south of Cobble Hill ; but one of the men, slipping, fell
and discharged his musket, thereby alarming the British, and the expedition
was abandoned.
The new year brought much uneasiness to the patriot army ; veteran
troops, whose time had expired, were returning home "by thousands," and
new ones replacing them. This change was a difficult and dangerous one to
make in presence of an enemy, but Washington accomplished it without mo
lestation ; and says of it that " it is not in the pages of history, perhaps, to
furnish a case " like it.
From Prospect Hill, on January i, 1776, the new flag of the United
Colonies was unfurled to the breeze, and for the first time bid defiance to
the foe ; it had thirteen stripes, alternate red and white ; but the field con
tained, instead of stars, as now, the crosses of Saint George and Saint
Andrew. A 3'ear and a half later, stars took the place of crosses. A tablet
has been erected on the hill in memory of this flag-raising.
In February Colonel Knox arrived with the captured Ticonderoga can
non and stores, some fifty pieces of artillery in all. These increased im
mensely the offensive strength of the Americans, and a little later enabled
them to carry into execution that daring feat, the seizing and fortifying of
Dorchester Heights. This successful movement so seriously threatened the
British army and shipping, tliat after various threatening manoeuvres, on
Sunday, March 17, they embarked and left Boston forever. In their hasty
departure they left the Americans over one hundred cannon, and an im
mense quantity of military stores.
The roar of cannon and mortars and the bursting of shells had shaken
Boston and the surrounding towns, resounding through the valleys, and re
verberating among the hills, for nine weary months ; and now the people
hailed with rejoicing its cessation, and the departure of the British arm)' of
occupation. Thus ended the siege, which in its inception, execution and
triumph was to the Americans one of the most successful achievements of
the war. But the news in England that her famed legions, supported by
her renowned navy, could be shut up for eleven months in a beleaguered
city, and finally driven to sea by a "rabble ' they despised, but feared to
meet, was a cause of national mortification.

•JO SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

CHAPTER VI.
Designed Isolation of New England. — Surrender of Burgoyne. — Hessian
Prisoners Quartered in Somerville. — Ball and Supper given by General
Riedesel's Wife. — Poor Barracks for the Prisoners. — Scarcity of Fuel. —
Removal of the Prisoners.
The obstinate resistance of the people of Boston and of New England,
and the disastrous results of every attempt at their subjugation, caused the
Enghsh ministry to look upon that section as the center of insurrection,
and early in 1777 they planned a campaign designed to sever New England
from the rest of the colonies.
The lines of the Hudson River and Lake Champlain were to be oc
cupied by armies from Canada, under Burgoyne, and from New York,
under Howe.
These lines were to be strongly fortified, and with the co-operation of
the fleet, it was believed this would effectually hem in the refractory section
and enable the King's forces to operate elsewhere with greater ease.
The conception was brilliant, but its execution was a failure, and thus
fresh laurels were added to the American arms.
After a series of successes and failures, Burgoyne surrendered to Gen
eral Gates at Saratoga, on the 17th of October, 1777. Over nine hundred
officers and forty-eight hundred soldiers fell into the hands of the Ameri
cans, together with thirty-five cannon and about five thousand stand of
arms. Burgoyne's army consisted of British, Hessians, Canadians, Tories and
Indians. By the terms of surrender the Canadians were allowed to return
home, and the English and Hessians were to have free passage to England,
on condition of not serving again in this contest, Boston to be their point
of embarkation. With this understanding they started on their weary jour
ney over the Green Mountains, and arrived at Somerville on November 7.
The English, about twenty-three hundred, under General Philips, were
marched to Prospect Hill and vicinity, and the Hessians, about nineteen
hundred, under General Riedesel, to Winter Hill.
A letter, describing the arrival of the prisoners, says : —
" Last Thursday, which was a very stormy day, a large number of
British troops came softly through the town, via Watertown to Prospect
Hill. On Friday we heard the Hessians were to make a procession in the
same route."

tij|)Titish^riainEErs
Copied iYCHasjXlliot 'y. perTTiissi'on "

— Some ru///e

^^^ /850

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 73
They are described as being poor, dirty and emaciated ; with them
came "great numbers of women, who seemed to be the beasts of burden,
having bushel baskets on their backs, by which they were bent double ; the
contents seemed to be pots and kettles, various sorts of furniture, children
peeping through gridirons and other utensils."
General Riedesel's family accompanied the expedition, and in her de
scription of this journey, Madame Riedesel says : —
" As it was already very late in the season, and the weather raw, I had
my calash covered with coarse linen, which, in turn, was varnished over
with oil ; and in this manner we set out on our journey to Boston, which
was very tedious, besides being attended with considerable hardship. I
know not whether it was my carriage that attracted the curiosity of the peo
ple to it — for certainly it had the appearance of a wagon in which they
carry around rare animals — but often I was obliged to halt, because the
people insisted upon seeing the wife of the German general with her
children. For fear that they would tear off the linen covering from the
wagon in their eagerness to see me, I very often alighted, and by this
means got away more quietly. However, I must say that the people were
very friendly, and were particularly delighted at my being able to speak
English, which was the language of their country."
" At last we arrived at Boston ; and our troops were quartered in bar
racks not far from Winter Hill. We were billeted at the house of a coun
tryman, where we had only one room under the roof.
" My women servants slept on th'e floor, and our men servants in the
entry. Some straw, which I placed under our beds, served us for a long
time, as I had with me nothing more than my own field bed."
In a short time the quarters of General Riedesel were changed from
near Winter Hill, where his family had been very unpleasantly situated, to
more pretentious ones at Cambridge, where most of the captive officers were,
and where they lived comfortably, if not sumptuously.
Mrs. Riedesel thus describes one of the entertainments given here: —
" On the 3d of June, 1778, I gave a ball and supper in celebration of
the birthday of my husband. I had invited to it all the generals and
officers." " We danced considerably, and our cook prepared us a magnifi
cent supper of more than eight covers. Moreover, our courtyard and garden
were illuminated. As the birthday of the King of England came upon the
following day, which was the fourth, it was resolved that we would not
separate until his health had been drank ; which was done with the most
hearty attachment to his person and his interests. Never, I believe, has
' God save the King ' been sung with more enthusiasm or more genuine good
will." " As soon as the company separated, we perceived that the whole
house was surrounded by Americans, who, having seen so many people go
into the house, and having noticed, also, the illumination, suspected that
we were planning a mutiny, and if the slightest disturbance had arisen, it
would have cost us dear.''
General Heath, whom we remember at Lexington, was placed in com
mand of the prisoners, and of the Americans guarding them.

74 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Meanwhile Congress decided to ignore the articles of surrender grant
ing free passage to England, and, as a result, Burgoyne and his troops were
held as ordinary prisoners of war. This caused intense indignation among
the captives, English and Hessians, as well as in England ; and with a man
of less judgment than Heath in command, might have resulted seriously.
As it was, the troops during their entire captivity were in a state bor
dering on revolt.
Disputes and trouble between them and the Americans were of daily
occurrence, and in several instances resulted in bloodshed. On one oc
casion a Hessian prisoner received a serious bayonet wound from a conti
nental soldier, and on another a British soldier a sword thrust from an
American officer.
The most serious event was the shooting of an English officer who was
riding in a chaise with two ladies along the foot of Prospect Hill, but who
failed to answer the challenge of the sentry.
The act was stigmatized as murder by Burgoyne, and the prisoners
were wild with exasperation. The sentry was tried by court-martial and
acquitted. The officer was buried from Christ Church, old Cambridge.
The British and Hessian soldiers, while in Somerville, were quartered
in the old barracks left by the Americans after the siege of Boston, the pre
vious year, at which the prisoners made bitter and frequent complaints. A
writer, speaking of them says : " These barracks had been erected for . . .
use during the siege of Boston, and were of the lightest description. The
wind whistled through the thin walls, the rain came through the roofs, the
snow lay in drifts on the floor."
General Riedesel says of them : " Indeed the greater number of the
soldiers are so miserably lodged that they are unable to shelter themselves
from cold and rain in this severe season of the year ; and in spite of the
handsome promises and the fact that they are here fourteen days, and not
withstanding, also, my offer that the men would make the repairs themselves
if the necessary materials were furnished, nothing has been provided for
them yet. The soldiers, of whom twenty to twenty-four occupy the same
barrack, are without light at night. Three of them sleep in the same bed.
They receive, also, so little fuel that they can scarcely cook our rations, to
say nothing of warming the cold rooms. In fact, they have not even con
sidered it worth while to establish a rule by which the officers and privates,
according to their rank, may receive fuel."
The scarcity of fuel during this winter of 1777-8 was so great that the
guards as well as the prisoners suffered severely, and in their straits spared
neither tree nor fence, which, however, furnished meagre warmth for so
great a number, miserably sheltered.
The prisoners remained here from November, 1777, until November,
1778, when it was thought prudent to move them inland, and they were
rnarched first to Rutland, Massachusetts, and then to Virginia.
Thus ended the Revolutionary drama here.

?0

>D

O 3

3><m 3

T2! O
T3 OO

>-
DiDi
oa

Qi

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. "J J

CHAPTER VIL
Revival of Industries after the Revolution. — Brick-making in Somerville. —
Celebrated Farms. — The Ble.4cherv. — The Middlesex Canal. — Completion
OF Bridges to Boston. — The First Railroad thr(jugh Somerville. — Establish
ment OF the McLean Asylu.m. — Robbery of Major Bray. — The Ursuline
Convent and its Destruction. — Town Improvp;.ments. — Establishment of
Schools. — Beginning of a Fire Depart.ment. — Separation of .Somerville from
Charlestown. The Revolution over, industries and public improvements absorbed the
energies which for eight years had known little else than war, and from this
time until its separation from Charlestown, Somerville's material progress
was continuous, though perhaps slow. Many were the industries of her
people during this period. Among the most notable were brick-making,
farming and milk-raising.
The brick-making business " held high carnival " here for years before
and since the town was set off. The time, conditions and location, near a
great city just beginning to change from wooden to brick constructions, were
more than favorable. The town abounded not onh* with a superior quality
of clay, but the best of sand, which were generally near one another.
\Vood had to be brought by team or canal.
These clays bordered and underlay the marshes and scattered generously
around the town, from the present Wyatt Park to the northerly slope of Winter
Hill. The burning kilns, for years, smoked the days and illumined the
nights. In one way or another a majorit)', perhaps, of the townspeople
were interested in this prosperous business. The sand jndustry was also
great, and its excavations covered a considerable territory, which before
was at a much higher elevation than now.
Farming, and milk and stock raising were carried on extensively. The
old road from Charlestown Neck through Union Square, Bow Street and
Somerville Avenue into Elm Street, from the dairy farms bordering it, was
called, . until recently " Milk Row." Ten Hills, while Derby and Jaques
were its proprietors, was noted as a stock farm. The best breed of horses,
cattle and sheep, some being choice importations, gave it a world-wide repu
tation. Colonel Jaques was not only a horseman and huntsman, and a
lover and raiser of fine stock, but the raising of choice poultry was among
his pursuits. Some of the finest varieties in the country were imported by
him. Another estate in the town was also noted: the farm of Joseph Bar-
rell, afterward the site of the McLean Asylum. Barrell was a man of leisure
and fine tastes. He made horticulture a study, and his gardens contained
the choicest varieties of fruits and flowers.

78 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
While many of the important industries which were started here in the
early days of the century are now almost forgotten, one still flourishes
after a life of seventy-five years : the bleachery on Somerville Avenue, incor
porated in 1S21 as the Charlestown Bleachery. It has changed proprietor
ship and name several times since then, being known as the Milk Row
Bleachery, the Somerville Dyeing and Bleaching Company, and the Mid
dlesex Bleachery and Dye Works. Its latest owners were Messrs. K. M.
Gilmore and John Haigh, the latter recently deceased. The bleachery
people form almost a community of their own, and the narrative of their
three quarters of a century, if written, would be very entertaining.
One other calling has had a long existence : stone quarrying. It began
nearly or quite two hundred and fifty years ago, and still flourishes.
Among other establishments in Somerville before its incorporation,
were a pottery, grist mill, distillery, rope walks and spike works.
Several public enterprises were inaugurated while the city was a part
of Charlestown. The Middlesex Canal, incorporated in 1792, was com
pleted in 1803, under the superintendence of that famous engineer, Loammi
Baldwin. It extended from Charlestown to Chelmsford. Up to 1819 there
had been one hundred assessments on its stockholders, and the enterprise
had yielded little if any return to its proprietors, and had cost |i, 164, 200.
With its locks, bridges and creeping boats, it must have added much to the
picturesqueness of the landscape. Like the stage coaches and baggage
wagons of primitive days, it sulkily retreated on the approach of the rail
road, and became with them an antique curiosity. Its ruins are still dis
cernible in a few places within the city.
An old stone which stood in Harvard Square until recently, bore the
words "To Boston 8 miles." It was set there before Charlestown or Cam
bridge had any bridge connection with the metropolis, and indicated the
distance to it by carriage. From Prospect Hill it was nearly ten miles to
Boston by highway. Great was the rejoicing therefore when, in 1786, the
bridge from Charlestown, and in 1793, that from Cambridge to Boston were
completed, and the eight or ten weary miles became little more than two.
In 1787 the Maiden bridge was built, and in 1809 the Craigie bridge from
East Cambridge to Boston.
About 1803, Medford Turnpike, now Mystic Avenue, was laid out from
Medford Centre to Charlestown Neck. Another early road was Middlesex
Turnpike, now Beacon, and Hampshire Street, from North, now Massachu
setts Avenue, at North Cambridge, to Broadway in lower Cambridgeport.
Both of these great thoroughfares were the direct result of the new bridges,
to which they were the feeders of country travel. But it was the coming of
the railroad that awoke the new era. The ill effects of its advent on the canal
and the coach have been mentioned, but it brought a great and general in
crease of business and prosperity.
The first railroad through Somerville was the Lowell, opened in 1835.
Its building incurred much opposition from property owners along its route.
In 1S36 the Charlestown Branch was incorporated, it being at first what its

y0^^'^'

Franklin Henderson.

Lindley J. Sturtevant.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 8 1
name implies, a branch of the Lowell, running from a point a little north of
the present Fitchburg, to the wharves in Charlestown, the headquarters of
the ice traffic. It was shortly after extended to Fresh Pond, and, in 1842,
its franchise descended to a new company, the Fitchburg. The first pas
senger station in Somerville established on the Lowell road, was at its
crossing with Washington Street ; and the first on the Fitchburg, at its
crossing with Kent Street, just in the rear of the present Franklin School
lot ; both are now gone.
The Lowell, and the Charlestown Branch, were the only railroads exist
ing in Somerville previous to its incorporation.
In 1816 the beautiful estate on Cobble Hill, or, as Barrell named it,
" Pleasant Hill," was sold to the Massachusetts General Hospital, to be
dedicated two years later as a retreat for the mentally afflicted, and such it
has remained until recent days ; but it has now yielded its loveliness to
traffic's iron rail and wheel. The asylum received its name from John
McLean, its generous benefactor. Its first superintendent was Dr. Rufus
Wyman, followed consecutively by Dr. Luther V. Bell, one of Somerville's
martyrs in the Civil W'ar, Dr. Chauncy Booth, Dr. John E. Tyler, Dr. George
F. Jelly, and last. Dr. Edward Cowles, its present superintendent.
During the town's pre-incorporate period, two incidents of more than
ordinary moment occurred : the robbery of Major Bray and the burning of
the Ursuline Convent.
The robbery of Major Bray took place on the night of August 13, 1821,
on Medford Turnpike, now Mystic Avenue, that reproach to city and
county, and not far from Temple Street. Medford in those days held high
place among the towns, as the residence of the Governor, that gallant old
hero of Bunker Hill and other Revolutionary fields. Major John Brooks.
His receptions were frequent, and his guests were gathered from Boston
and surrounding towns. It was on one of these occasions that Major Bray,
while returning to Boston, was waylaid by that recently imported artist of
the highwa)', Mike Martin, alias "Captain Lightfoot," neither of which was
his correct name. Martin had watched the Governor's house, and as the
Major drove away, singled him out for his victim. Mounting his horse,
Martin soon overtook Bray, who at the muzzles of Lightfoot's pistols de
livered up his watch and money. Mrs. Bray was in the carriage, but from
her Martin, who was a chivalrous rogue, took nothing, gallantly remarking
that he "never robbed ladies." He was captured not long after, tried and
convicted, and was the first and last example under the law which made high
way robbery a capital crime. In his defense he strenuously asserted that
the pistols which threatened Major Bray were empty and that Bray was un
necessarily alarmed.
The Ursuline Convent on Mount Benedict was opened on July 17,
1826, under the auspices of the " Ursuline Community." Its purpose was
" the education of female youth," " to adorn their minds with useful knowl
edge and to form their hearts to virtue." The school was divided into a
junior and a senior department ; in the former were taught the " common

82 SOMERVILLE, PA.ST AND PRESENT.
branches of education," in the latter ancient and modern languages,
sciences, music and art, including ornamental work and other accomplish
ments. Probably no other institution in New England offered such an ex
tensive range of studies.
Although professedly sectarian, it was liberally patronized by young
ladies of all creeds, the majority being Protestants ; for it was claimed that
" the religious opinions of the children are not interfered with." The
building was beautifully situated on heights commanding the landscape in
all directions, and the grounds were ornamentally laid out with fine gar
dens, foliage and flowers. No event occurred to disturb the "even tenor "
of the school until 1833, when the flight of one of its pupils. Miss Rebecca
Reed, who had been converted from Protestantism, and the publication by
her of a book, purporting to give an account of life there, and of alleged
abuses, called public attention to the institution, and was largely instru
mental in creating a feeling of antagonism against it, especially in the
minds of those who were prone to strong religious prejudices.
On the night of the 28th of July the next year (1834), a second incident
occurred which increased intensely this feeling. It was the escape of a
nun. Sister " Mary John," as she was called. She is said to have been suf
fering at the time with a fit of " mental derangement." She was sought for
by the bishop, but at first refused to return. The next day, however, hav
ing somewhat recovered, she evidently reconsidered her previous refusal,
and was taken back to the convent.
From this occurrence sprang various rumors in the press and on the
streets, all of which were derogatory to the Ursuline Community, and
tended to greatly increase the feeling against it. Threats of the destruction
of the building were whispered around, and the excitement grew stronger
and stronger as fresh rumors passed from mouth to mouth, until with the
fatal August 11, 1834, came the storm which laid all in ruins.
A full warning had been given the " Community " that the convent was
to be destroyed on that day, and all indications pointed to the probable ex
ecution of the threat, yet only feeble efforts on the part of the town author
ities were taken to prevent it. In the early evening a mob of many
hundred gathered outside the convent grounds, and after much noise and
disturbance, the gates were forced, fences torn down, and the mob surged
up to the building. When the lady superior saw the temper of the assail
ants, she is said to have endeavored to stay their work by threatening them
with the retaliation from twenty thousand Irishmen. About this time two
shots were fired by some one in the crowd, upon which the inmates
abandoned the building and retired to the gardens. The doors were
battered down, and the rioters, flushed with excitement, overran the build
ing, which was soon in flames. The fire engines were called out, but it is
nowhere recorded that the firemen made any effectual attempt to quench
the fire. It was even thought by some, though never proven, that they
were in sympathy with the mob. The inmates, who were all females,
sought refuge in the house of Mr. Adams, which is still standing, on Broad-

William A. Byam.

Residence of William A. Byam, 1 17 Pearl Street.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 85
way, near Sargent Avenue, and the rioters, having finished their work of
desolation, retired. It was feared that more rioting would follow, but the
precautions now taken by the authorities averted further danger.
Thirteen of those known to have participated in the attack were ar
rested and tried, but owing to conflicting evidence, or for some other rea
son, only one was found guilty, and it was strongly, and probably with
truth, asserted, that he, a youth only, was the least guilty of all. Religious
feeling ran very high in those days, it would seem, and there are also rea
sons for believing that pure religious sentiments might have been found as
easily elsewhere as in the hearts of the men who, m the darkness of night,
could attack a defenseless community of women and children, most of the
latter being of their own religious faith. But in condemning a deed, which,
looked at calmly to-day, sixty-two years after its occurrence, seems to us
extremely brutal and unchristian, it may perhaps be well to remember that
in all ages, great political and religious excitement have led men to the
perpetration of acts which, in their calmer moments, they would have con
demned, which leads us to exclaim, nearly in the words of Madam Roland,
" Oh, religion ! how many crimes in thy name are committed " ; and these
words are applicable to no one creed alone.
But few town improvements were made in Somerville while part of
Charlestown. Its highways were neglected and its school facilities
meagre. True, three important avenues were opened, viz. : Middlesex
Turnpike, Medford Street and Medford Turnpike. But for these, being
private enterprises, the town government deserved no credit. Five schools
had been established, one grammar, and four primary, the buildings being
one-story, cheap structures, and generally costing not over a thousand dol
lars, the land for which, in some cases, had been donated.
In 1838 one fire engine had been generously given this section, the
" Mystic, No. 6," it being the cast-off " Tub " of Company No. 6, of the penin
sula, which then became No. 7. A wooden structure was built for this on
the site now occupied by the No. i Hose Company, at the corner of Wash
ington and Prospect Streets. The Mystic was a small machine, fed with
buckets. Its company of thirty-five members included many, if not most
of the prominent citizens of Somerville.
Twenty years, and probably more, before our city was finally set off
from Charlestown, the people of this section became dissatisfied with the
way in which town affairs were conducted. Though contributing their full
quota to the treasury, they felt that they received no equivalent return in
public improvements. As the result, attempts were made at various times
to divide Charlestown, by the inhabitants " outside the Neck," which pro
ject was strenuously opposed by the denizens of the peninsula, or, when
favored by the latter, as on one occasion it was, objectionable conditions
were imposed, which defeated the project. But at last the "outsiders"
succeeded in obtaining the act of separation, approved by the Governor,
March 3, 1842. The act was hailed with delight, and duly celebrated with
a supper at which were representative guests from surrounding towns, and
with dancing and a salute of cannon.

86

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

CHAI^TER VIII.
From Separation to the Rebellion.
Town Beginnings. — Expenses of Early Town Government. — Highways De.scribed.
— Growth of the Tovi'n. — Survey of the Town. — Railroads and their Exten
sion. — Horse Railroads Opened. — Industries of Early Somerville. — Fire
Department and its Growth. — Organization of the Somerville Light Infantry.
— Schools and their Development. — Churches.

Town Beginnings.
On March 5, two days after the approval by the Governor of the act of
setting off, the inhabitants were notified to meet "at the Prospect Hill
School House " on Medford Street, on the fourteenth day of March, for the
choice of town officers, at which meeting the following were elected : Select
men, Nathan Tufts, John S. Edgerly, Caleb W. Leland, Luther Mitchell
and Francis Bowman. Town Clerk, Charles E. Oilman. Treasurer and
Collector, Edmund Tufts. The salaries paid during the first few years
were many removes from munificent, and compared with the figures of the
present day, seem extremely diminutive.
Salaries for 1842.
Paid John C. Magoun for assessing taxes ... $ 15.00

Charles E. Oilman as Town Clerk .
Edmund Tufts as Treasurer and Collector
Oliver Tufts for assessing taxes

90.00
130.00 15.00

Total salaries paid ... . $250.00
The salaries of the same officials for 1843 were $270. The whole ex
pense of carrying on the Town Government from March 3, 1842, to March
3, 1843, was as follows : —

Interest on note ....

16.00

Highways 

2,076.57

Schools ....

1,287.96

Military Bounty

45.00

Fire Department .

2.50

Miscellaneous

154-13

Salaries and Fees .

300.00

Abatement of taxes

171-53

Taxes due 

486.58

Cash on hand.

511.81

$5,652.08

Edwin A. Sanborn, M. D.

Frank A. Ware.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 89
The receipts of the town the first year were : —
From Taxes ...  ,^5,007.08
" Benj. Hadley's note  600.00
" The State Military bounty . . . 45.00
Total . . 55,652.08
The town grew rapidly and the public expenses kept pace. By 1853,
the cost of schools had increased to #9,150.51; highways to ^^3, 953. 17;
fire department to $147.39, ^nd salaries to §708.50; while 51,112.67 was
spent for relief of the poor, the total expense for the year being 524,356.37,
or four times the amount spent in 1842.
In i860, the year previous to the war, the town's expenses had increased
to $38,052.87, the schools costing $17,505.91, highways $6,989.39, fire de
partment 51,821.41, salaries 51. 453. 45, and the poor $1,660.81. The salaries
this latter year were as follows: Town Clerk, ,5300.00; three Assessors,
$400.00; Collector, $453.45 ; Treasurer, $300.00.
Highways.
Somerville began her town career with a meagre equipment ; a pound, a
valueless fire engine, a few cheap schoolhouses, and some poor roads,
completing the list of her possessions.
Broadway and Washington Street were her oldest and principal high
ways. Milk Street (Somerville Avenue), from North Cambridge to Elm
Street, was new ; from there to Bow Street it was part of the ancient
"Charlestown Lane," thence to Union Square recent, and new from the
Square to Medford Street, the different sections being laid out at various
times. In earlier times. Bow and Elm Streets were also parts of " Charlestown
Lane." Prospect, Beacon and Main Streets, and Mystic Avenue, were all in
existence in 1842. Franklin and Cross Streets were open, but the remaining
Rangeways were narrow, and probably steep or otherwise impassable, or
entirely closed. Sycamore and Temple Streets were private lanes. The
former ran from Barberry Lane to the old Lee Headquarters, the latter
from Broadway to Colonel Jaques' mansion. Newton Street, from Prospect,
southerly, was the narrow and antique Brick Yard Lane, running, as its
name says, to brickyards. A part of it, however, was one of the pre-revolu-
tionary ways from Charlestown to Cambridge. Medford Street was also
open from Broadway to East Cambridge. Barberry Lane was the " Middle
Way " of a century ago. It was one rod and a half wide, and began at Cross
Street, opposite the Universalist Church ; thence it ran to Fosdick Square,
which was where Medford Street and Highland Avenue now join, and
thence to School Street, where the first section of it ended.
The Lowell Railroad cut this lane in two. Avon Place from Cross Street
to the railroad was a part of it, and Chester Avenue another part; the re
mainder of it was widened to forty feet, and became " Church Street," part
of the Highland Avenue of to-day. The second section of Barberry Lane

90 SOMERVILLE, PA.ST AND PRESENT.
began at School Street about ten rods north of the first, and ran north
westerly to Central Street, where it ended ; it was long since abandoned.
The growth of the town between 1842 and 1861 claimed the constantly
increasing attention of the Selectmen to the improvement of the old, and
the building of new streets. The Department of Highways during this pe-'
riod was carefully and economically managed ; streets were graded and
macadamized, sidewalks built, gutters paved, street signs put up, etc. The
fact that our soil was chiefly clay or clayey gravel, and our ledges mostly
slate, both unsuitable material for heavy travel, rendered the task of good
road making very difficult, so that notwithstanding their best efforts, our
most traveled streets were at times beds of dust, or sloughs of mud. With
a view to remedying this, a gravel bank was early purchased at Winchester,
and gravel for our roads was brought over the railroad.
In 1851, a careful survey of the town was made, and in 1852 a map
published by Martin Draper, Jr., who at that time was principal of the
Prospect Hill Grammar School.
In 1859, the town voted to have a complete survey of its highways,
which was begun shortly after, and finished in 1861. The survey embraced
all the roadways then opened; public or private, and many prospective ones.
It was carefully done, and granite posts were set to define and preserve the
street lines.
When the town was incorporated, it consisted chiefly of farms, brick
yards and marshes. Some lands in East Somerville had been lotted and
put on the market, but little if any elsewhere. Soon, however, there was
great activity in real estate, so that by 1855, land valued in 1842 at only
fifty or one hundred dollars an acre, had advanced to two or three thousand
dollars per acre, and some to ten thousand; and flourishing settlements
began, not only in East Somerville, but near Union Square and on Pros
pect, Spring and Winter Hills, each a little village of itself.
In 1842 the population was 1,013, i" '85°- 3i524, and in i860, 8,025 ; the
valuation also increased from $988,513 in 1842, to $2,102,631 in 1850, and
to $6,033,053 in i860.
In its first year the town taxes were 55,007.05, in 1850, .-?i6,956.22,in 1855,
$27,701.46, and in i860, $29,316.11 ; the tax rate per thousand being in
1842,^4.29; 1845,13.60; 1850,15.65; 1855,56.40; i860, $5.70.
The prosperity of the town is perhaps indicated by the fact that while
in 1842 only two persons, Henry Hill and Charles Tufts, paid over one
hundred dollars in taxes, in 1850, fifteen residents and seven non-residents
paid taxes ranging from one hundred and one dollars to three hundred
and thirty-nine dollars; and in i860, thirty-seven residents and thirteen
non-residents paid taxes ranging from one hundred and three dollars to
five hundred and seven dollars each. Railroads.
The Fitchburg Railroad, the successor to the Charlestown Branch (of
the Lowell), incorporated in 1842, was opened to ^^'aUham in 1843, and to

-f^ ¦" i

.W

Shephard S. Woodcock.

Frank A. Teele.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 93
Fitchburg in 1845 ; its crooked route through Somerville was meanwhile
straightened, and a few years after, it was extended to Boston, its terminus
previously having been Charlestown. Until 1857 it crossed the Lowell at
grade, but it was then lowered and the Lowell raised and bridged over it.
In 1851 the Vermont Central was finished, which gave continuous rail
road connection between Boston and Canada. The rejoicing over this event
lasted several days. One feature of the celebration was a steam calliope,
whose musical scream some of our older citizens probably remember.
The year 1S45 saw the extension of the Boston and Maine through
Somerville to Boston. This road was chartered in 1833 as the Andover and
Wilmington, and was then a branch of the Lowell.
The Grand Junction Railroad was projected in 1849, and was built from
the Eastern and Boston and Maine to the Fitchburg. It was opened in
1851, and later was extended across Cambridge and the Charles River to
the Albany Railroad. After considerable litigation it passed, in 1869, into
the control of the Albany, by reason of whose connection with the western
railroads, the Grand Junction became the great feeder for European traffic.
At this time there were no regular lines of steamers between Boston and
foreign ports. They were soon established, however, and proved so successful
that the number which cleared during the year 1880 was over three hundred,
and Boston's exports increased proportionally.
The Eastern Railroad, which previously ran from Salem to deep water
at East Boston, was extended through this town to Boston proper in 1854.
The Harvard Branch was another railroad built here before the war. It
started from the Fitchburg near the Bleachery and ran to Harvard Square,
the depot being near the junction of Kirkland Street and North Avenue. It
was incorporated in 1848, but had a short life, having ceased running in 1851.
Its entire equipment was a single passenger car, in one end of which was
the locomotive, whose smoke-pipe, covered with a screen, peeped out above
the roof, from which circumstance it was christened the "pepper-box," which
it somewhat resembled.
These were all the railroads built in Somerville before the war ; others
will be mentioned in a later chapter.
Previous to 1858 steam cars and omnibuses or " hourlies " were the only
conveyances to Boston, but neither fully accommodated the public. This
year two lines of horse railroads were opened into the town, one over
Broadway to Winter Hill, the other up Washington Street to Union Square,
and thence through Somerville Avenue (then Milk Street) and Elm Street to
West Somerville. They were built along the sides of the streets, near the
gutters, and were laid with sleepers and T-rail, like those of a steam road.
Industries.
In 1842 the inhabitants of the town were chiefly employed in brick-
making, farming and milk raising ; but " New times demand new manners
and new men"; so after the "separation" advertisements were inserted in
the Boston papers, calling the attention of mechanics and others to the in-

94 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
fant town. In 1S45 it had added tinware, pumps, paint manufacturing and
cigar making, and perhaps other trades, and in 1855, besides the foregoing,
we find a long list of new industries, among the principal of which are
rolling and spike mills, steam engines and boilers, brass tube works, glass
works, vinegar works, steam planing mills, harness and trunk factory, curr}--
ing, a bakery and upholstery hair factory. This increase of trades and
manufactures was probably due largely to the railroad facilities of the town.
A comparison of the products of a few of the principal industries of
1845 with those of 1855 show some of the changes wrought in a decade.
Bricks made in 1845, 27,500,000; in 1855, 17,000,000; decrease, 10,500,000.
Potatoes raised in 1845, 5,700 bushels; in 1855, 1,400 bushels; decrease,
4.300 bushels. Hay in 1845, 980 tons; in 1855, 630 tons; decrease, 350 tons.
Value of horses, cattle, etc., in 1845, $20,000; in 1855, $42,000. Cordage
manufactured in 1845, 14 tons; in 1855, 54 tons. Cloth bleached or
dyed in 1845,4,500,000 yards; in 1855, 21,600,000 yards. It will thus be
seen that in this decade began the decline of brickmaking and farming,
while manufacturing and kindred industries increased.
The Middlesex Bleachery and Dye Works employed in 1845 thirt3'-seven
persons, and in 1855, eight}'. Brickmaking in 1845 gave employment to
about three hundred and fifty men in the various yards, but in 1855 there
were only two hundred and twenty engaged in it.
The Union Glass Works were established about 1854, with a capital of
$60,000, the projectors being Amory and Francis Houghton. In 1855 the
value of glass ware made was $120,000, and it employed one hundred work
men. The establishment is still in operation, after a life of over forty years.
The American Brass Tube Works were built in or about 1851, for the
manufacture of seamless brass tubes, the process being a carefully guarded
secret, not patented. Their capital was $100,000, and the product in 1855
was said to be $200,000, and the number of men employed forty.
Fire Department.
The first attempt to obtain a fire engine for the Somerville district is
related in Charlestown records thus : —
" 7th March, 1831." "Voted that the subject of the 8th article, to wit,
' To know whether the Town will purchase an engine to be located at or near
the School house. Milk Row, petitioned for by Samuel Kent and others,' be
referred to the engineers to consider and report at the adjournment of the
present meeting," and the result is shown in the following record. " April
4, 1831." "Under the 8th article, the engineers, among other things re
ported, as on file, that it is inexpedient to purchase an engine to be located
at Milk Row; which report being read, thereupon, voted that the same be
accepted." The above location asked for must have been near the cemetery. In
1838, the old Charlestown Co. No. 6 desiring an improved machine, the au
thorities generously donated the old " Mystic No. 6 " to Somerville, and at a
town meeting on May 7, the following "Article 11" was presented : " To see if

Daniel W. Sanborn.

Eugene D. Lacount.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. gj
the Town will erect a house for Engine No. 6 near Milk Row," whereupon it
was " voted " " That the engineers be authorized to erect the house at the
place named in the article," and also " voted " "That 5400 be raised for the
purpose of defraying the expenses of building said house."
The Somervillians of those days were hard to satisfy, for soon a further
demand seems to have been made, and on March 27, 1839, it was —
"Voted" "That Messrs. Goodrich and Elliott [T.J.] be a committee to
consider of the expediency of erecting a belfry on engine house No. 6, Milk
Row ; also to ascertain the probable expense and report to the Board," and
on "April 8, 1839, voted, that Nathan Tufts be added to the committee to
consider the expediency of erecting a belfry on engine house, Cambridge
Road [Milk Row] so called.'' " The committee subsequently reported that
it was expedient to erect the belfry, whereupon, voted, that the committee
proceed forthwith to erect the same, provided the cost does not exceed forty
dollars." In 1841 the "Milk Row " Company evidently became dissatisfied with
their miniature bucket machine, and asked for a "suction engine," with the
customary success, for we find it recorded that, on petition of Hiram .\llen,
voted, inexpedient to buy a new " suction engine " to replace No. 6 ; and so
" Mystic 6 " remained eight years longer, the only protection from fire for
this section.
In 1849 the new "crack" " Hunneman tub," was purchased by the
town and christened "Somerville No. i," and the poor friendless "^lystic
6 " was trundled off to a stable on Broadway near Marshall Street, and
four years later was sold for $33.00 as old junk.
In 1850 an Act of the Legislature was passed " to establish a fire depart
ment in the town of Somerville." The department was organized with
Nathan Tufts as its first chief engineer. He was followed by Abram Welch,
Robert A. Vinal, and John Runy, who was the last chief previous to the war.
None of these are now living.
Herein has been outlined only the early history and chief events of
Somerville's Fire Department, as elsewhere in this volume their- narrative
has been more fully written. Military.
The first indication of martial spirit in Somerville, after the " separa
tion," is shown by an item in her annual expenses for "military bounty,''
$45.00 paid to John S. Edgerly and eight others. These bounties continued
to be paid in varying amounts until 1853, when the Somerville Light Infan
try was organized under command of Captain George O. Brastow, suc
ceeded in 1854 by Captain Francis Tufts. In 1859 Captain Brastow again
assumed command. The company's armory and drill room was at first in
" Franklin Hall," which on Sundays was used as a church. The hall was
in Union Square at the junction of Somerville Avenue and Washington
Street. It was owned by Mr. Robert Vinal and has since been destroyed
by fire. Upon the completion of the new brick engine house at the corner

98 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
of Washington and Prospect Streets, its armory was transferred to that
building. The Somerville Light Infantry, at this time, was attached to the 5th
regiment as Company " B " ; at the commencement of the war in 1861 be
coming Company " I." The honorable record of this organization in the
Civil War will be mentioned in a succeeding chapter.
The early military matters of Somerville can hardly be referred to with
out mentioning three persons identified prominently with the state militia.
They were Colonel Samuel Jaques, spoken of in a former chapter. Captain
Henry A. Snow of the Boston Fusileers, identified with that company since
1 841, and still its captain ; and Major Caleb Page, commander of the " Fly
ing Artillery," that company whose lightning manceuvres were the admira
tion of all. Schools.
Her schools, the pride of Somerville, had humble beginnings. Five
little houses, grudgingly built by the Charlestown authorities before the sep
aration, were her entire educational establishment. They were as follows :
" Pound Primary," on Broadway, corner of Franklin Street.
" Winter Hill Primary," west side of Central Street, near Broadway.
" Milk Row Primary," on Somerville Avenue adjoining the cemetery.
" Prospect Hill Primary," on Medford Street, in what is now Central
Square. " Prospect Hill Grammar," adjoining the primary, in Central Square.
Another school was kept for a part of the year 1842, known as the
" Primary School in the Russell District," though there was then no school-
house in that part of the town.
The teachers of these schools, and their salaries for the term commenc
ing May I, 1842, and ending February i, 1843, were as follows, viz. : —
Pound Primary, Mary E. Brown .... $157.50
\Mnter Hill Primary, Lucy D. Smith .... 15750
Milk Row Primary, Sarah M. Burnham .... 157-50
Prospect Hill Primary, Eliza P. Whitredge . . . 157-50
Russell District Primary (6 mos.), Clara D. Whittemore 72.00
Prospect Hill Grammar, Wm. E. Graves .... 450.00

Total amount paid teachers the first year of the town . $1,152.00
All other school expenses were $135.96, making the total cost of schools,
including salaries, for this first year, $1,287.96.
The assessed value of the foregoing schoolhouses in 1S43 was : —
Pound School  . $600.00
Prospect Hill Grammar and Primary . . . . i ,400.00
Milk Row . . . . . . 650.00
Winter Hill . . .... 500.00

Total value of schoolhouses in Somerville when set off, $3,1 50.00

r , 1^7 •

Henry F. Lombard.

G. Leslie Nichols.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. lOI
In 1843 two new schoolhouses were built, one in the " Russell District "
on Broadway on land purchased of Charles Tufts at a cost of 5 100, known
afterwards as the Walnut Hill School, and the other as the " Lower Winter
Hill School," which probably replaced the " Pound School." These were
built by Mr. Jerome Thorp, who is still a resident of the city, and at a cost
of $600 and $605 respectively.
New schoolhouses and schools raised the educational expenses of 1843-
1844 to $3,393.88, but in 1844-1845 they fell to $2,761.35. The average of
pupils attending school in 1843 was two hundred and fift)'-five, and the
number of children returned as of school age was three hundred and two.
The first published report of the School Committee was that of .\pril,
1844, covering the year of 1 843-1 844, and was made by Luther V. Bell, its
chairman. This report, in speaking of the two new schoolhouses built the
previous year, says, " The edifices are planned externally with much taste,
and the internal arrangements made in the most approved mode." They
are spoken of as " little temples of learning." The committee also suggest
to the parents that " posterity would thank them should they, the present
spring, set out as many trees as are needed, in the squares which have been
reserved about the schoolhouses," adding that, " The spirit of the age and
of the Commonwealth requires that this should be done,'' which spirit has
since materialized in our annual Arbor Day.
During the year 1846-1847 two more school edifices were erected and
named, one the " Prescott " grammar and primary, on the corner of Broadway
and Franklin Streets, the other the " Franklin" grammar and primary, on
Milk Row (now Somerville Avenue) at corner of Kent Street. Thus by the
beginning ,of the year 1847 the five schools had increased to nine, three
grammar and six primary. In 1848 the commodious Prospect Hill grammar
and primary school was built. It accommodated two hundred and sixty-four
pupils, and was opened on December 25. The name of the old " Prospect
Hill " was now changed to "Medford Street School." On September i,
1848, a new school was commenced on Beacon Street, south of Washington
Street near the Cambridge line, and called .the " Harvard Primary." Its
house was the old school building removed from the Prescott district, and
perhaps the one built there in 1843 as before mentioned.
The School Committee, in their report of March, 1849, speak with pride
of the increase in school facilities, and say that "the liberality of the town
in providing for its schools has placed it first on the list in the county, and
only third in the Commonwealth."
The following is a list of the books used in the grammar schools in
1 849 : —
Well's Grammar, Russell's Sequel to Primary Reader, Russell's Intro
duction, American First Class Book, Instructive Reader, Worcester's Dic
tionary, Swan's Spelling Book, Mitchell's Geographies, Emerson's Arith
metic, Parker's Philosophy, \^'orcester's History, \\'reath of School Songs.
In 1850 the " Spring Hill Primary " was erected on Elm Place, and the
" Cherry Street Primar)' " School on the west side of the street, near Elm,

102 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT -
in 1851. But the event which marked an era in the school history of the
town was the founding of the High School.
In recommending the establishment of a High School, the committee,
in their report of March, 1851, suggest three ways for its accomplishment.
First, to use the Prospect Hill School building for it ; second, vestry of the
Unitarian Church ; and third, to build a one-story building on Central Hill.
The High School building was finished in 1852. It is the present City Hall,
and cost $7,881.38. The school began with sixty-six pupils, Mr. Robert
Bickford and Miss E. C. Babcock being its first teachers.
The Forster School on Sycamore Street, named for a prominent citizen,
Charles Forster, was built in 1854.
In 1857 the Prescott School was built. It was of brick, and the most
costly structure built by the town previous to the war.
The Brastow School was commenced in i860 and completed in 1861, on
the old "pound lot" on Medford Street,'where the new steamer house now
stands. It was the last school edifice built during the pre-rebellion period.
The town had now (March, 1861) twenty-two schools, and thirty teachers
with salaries amounting to $13,050. It began in 1842 with five schools,
six teachers and a salary list of $1,152.
Churches.
From its settlement in 1629, until the year 1844, the people of this sec
tion attended public worship probably either in Charlestown or Cambridge,
and possibly a few in Medford, listening to the persuasive words of such
pastors of early renown as Zachariah Symmes, John Harvard the founder
of the University, Thomas Shepard, Simon Bradstreet and Thomas Pren
tice, and other inspired teachers. In the church membership, from earliest
to recent times, we find Somerville names ; among others for instance, in
the earlier years, such as Governor Winthrop and General Gibones, and in
later, Nathan Tufts, Samuel Jaques and others. In the early records are
also many references to church land and lots here in Somerville, one as
early as 1638, and two in 1788, one lot on " Walnut," now College Hill, one
lot on " Three Pole Lane " (Cross Street), and one lot " in Rangeway "
(Middle Lane, now Highland Avenue). A later record says, " The new
church in Somerville now stands upon this lot," which was the first Unita
rian, " thrice destroyed and thrice rebuilded," the last time on a new and
the present location.
The first church formed in Somerville was the Congregational Uni
tarian Society just mentioned, organized August 22, 1844, in the old "Milk
Row" Engine House. Afterwards it built its church on Highland Avenue,
then called Church Street. It has had two edifices destroyed by fire, and
one unroofed by the wind, and is now occupying its fourth.
The Perkins Street Baptist Church was the second, organized in 1845,
in the residence of Reverend William Stowe, on Pleasant Street, its first
church being built the same year.
Then came the First Baptist Church, founded in 1852, whose earlier

N. Everett Fitz.

Fred M. Kimball.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 05
services were held in a chapel, since a schoolhouse on Beach Street, and
whose present edifice, on the crown of Spring Hill, was built in 1873.
The fourth was the Franklin Street Congregational, organized in 1853,
and which society built their church edifice in 1854.
The fifth was the First Universalist, whose early meetings were in the
old Medford Street Schoolhouse. Its first edifice was a chapel on Tufts
Street built in 1859, its next was on the corner of Tufts and Cross Streets,
on land given by Mr. Charles Tufts, the founder of Tufts College ; this was
burned in 1868, and replaced with the present structure, on the same site.
The sixth and last church which was founded during the period treated
of in this chapter was the Methodist Episcopal organized in 1.S55, and
which met at first in Franklin Hall, Union Square. The society afterwards
built a church building in 1858 or 1859, on Webster Avenue, which has since
been remodeled into the Parochial School. Its church is now on Summer
near Bow Street.

CHAPTER IX.
The Civil War.
SoMER\ ille's Response to President Lincoln's Calls for Men. — Appropriations ry
the Town for Soldiers and their Families. — Bounties Offered. — Somerville
Tight Infantry". — Somerville Guard. — Volunteers for the War. — State
Bounties. — Officers of Somerville Companies in the War. — Service during
the War of the Companies from Somerville. — The Martyr Roll.
When the "long roll" sounded throughout the land, after the fall of
Fort Sumter, and President Lincoln called for seventy-five thousand men to
quell the rising rebellion, the regiments of Massachusetts promptly re
sponded. Among the earliest was the Fifth, in whose ranks was the Somer
ville Light Infantry, then Company " I." And as promptly the people of the
town also responded.
Enthusiastic meetings were held in the public halls, the engine house
and the open air.
Subscriptions were raised and committees appointed. One of the first
meetings was held in the Town Hall, on April 17, 1861. It was a largely
attended and enthusiastic gathering, and a fund of over $4,300 was soon
raised for assisting the families of the Somerville Company, which had been
ordered immediately to Washington ; this meeting was followed by others.
Private subscriptions were prompt and liberal, as were also the appropria
tions of the Town, not only at the beginning, but throughout the whole
period of the war. During the four years' contest, Somerville expended for
the soldiers and the cause, from its public treasury, one hundred thirty-five
thousand five hundred sixt}^ dollars, and from the contributions of its
citizens, sixty-five thousand eight hundred twenty-two dollars ; in all, two
hundred one thousand three hundred eightv-two dollars.

I06 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
The Selectmen were then : Benjamin Randall, Captain Henry A. Snow,
Captain Thomas Cunningham, Albert Kenneson and Charles H. Guild.
They entered with alacrity upon the duties which war had so suddenly
placed upon them, and under the instructions of the Town at its April
meeting, they at once urge forward the necessary enlistments, and took
measures to secure comfort for the soldier in the field and for his family at
home. In the performance of these duties, the visits of Captain Cunning
ham, Captain Snow and Mr. Guild to Washington and the camps were
frequent. Calls for Troops.
At the first alarm. Captain Brastow had called together the Somerville
Light Infantry ; this was on April 17, and on the 19th the Company with its
valiant Captain were in camp, and a few days later, on their way to the
front, serving more than the term for which they enlisted.
On May 25, 1862, the National Capital being again threatened. Gov
ernor Andrew called out the State Militia, who assembled on Boston Com
mon in readiness for an expected summons from the President. The Somer
ville Company, under Captain W. E. Robinson, answered, but their services
were not then required, and they returned home.
On the 28th of June, President Lincoln made his famous call for " three
hundred thousand more,'' under which the quota of Somerville was ninety-
two. The Selectmen began immediately to raise a full company which was
to be known as the " Somerville Guard."
From this time on recruiting became more difficult. A town meeting
was held July 19, and a "committee of sixty" citizens appointed to co
operate with the Selectmen in all matters of enlistment to fill the quota.
Mass meetings, with patriotic addresses and martial music, were again
held to promote volunteering, and in August a bounty of one hundred
dollars to every recruit was offered, which was increased to one hundred
and twenty-five dollars by private subscription.
The Company's camp was on Prospect Hill, where it remained for
several weeks. Ultimately it was attached to the 39th regiment, as Com
pany " E," and under command of Captain Fred R. Kinsley it proceeded
to the front, where it " proved an honor to the Town and the State."
Very soon came another requisition for troops, a second " three hun
dred thousand more," and the old 5th again responded.
The Somerville Light Infantry, which at its first enlistment was Com
pany " I," now became Company " B," of the same regiment.
Upon the departure of the " Somerville Guard," its camp on Prospect
Hill was occupied by this company, now commanded by Captain Benjamin
F. Parker. Here it remained until September 6, when it joined the
regiment at Washington. On October 22, it left for Newbern, North Caro
lina. Meanwhile the Town had raised its bounty for volunteers to two hun
dred dollars.

George F. Sturtevant.

Alexander A. Sanborn.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 09
Under these two "three hundred thousand more'' calls, Somerville
furnished aboLit five hundred and sixty-eight men, at a net cost for bounties
and all other expenses of thirty-two thousand seven hundred and sixty-four
dollars, beside which, up to June i, 1863, the town had expended in aid to
two hundred and fifty families, the sum of thirteen thousand and sixty
dollars. At the beginning of the year 1863, there were from Somerville, two full
companies in the field, beside about three hundred other officers and men,
in various regiments from ^Massachusetts, and other loyal states.
In June, 1863, the Somerville Light Infantry, whose term of nine months
had expired, returned to Somerville, and was heartily welcomed home by
the citizens, the company having lost but one man, Samuel G. Tompkins.
In July, 1863, a demand on Somerville was made for one hundred and
eighty-six men, and a draft ordered. Of this number one hundred and eighty-
three responded promptly, without waiting to be drafted.
The third call for three hundred thousand came in October, with a
requisition on Somerville for ninety-two, the same number as in the first
call, which were required by January 5, 1864.
Bounties were now offered by the State. Volunteering being exceed
ingly slow, war meetings were held, and the enrolled men (those liable to
military duty) of the Town were called together, which resulted in a liberal
financial response, and enabled the " War Committee " to follow the lead of
other towns and obtain recruits from wherever they could be procured ; by
February 1, the limit having been extended, the town's quota was filled.
Another call for two hundred thousand came, and to it Somerville again
promptly responded.
In July, 1864, an assessment of $30,000 was levied upon the citizens,
the share charged enrolled men being greater in proportion than to others.
Under this measure the town ultimately received and disbursed $15,609.
Between October 17, 1864, and March i, 1865, five hundred and nine
men were asked for from Somerville, and six hundred and twenty furnished,
which left one hundred and eleven men to be credited the town upon any
future call. Somerville Troops.
The following is a summary of the Somerville companies during the
war, giving their terms of service and names of officers : —
Company I, 5 th Regiment. April 19 to July 31, 186 1. Captain, George
O. Brastow. ist Lt., William E. Robinson. 2d Lt., Frederick R. Kinsley.
Company B, 5th Regiment. May, 1862. Under command of Captain
William E. Robinson. Ordered out by Governor Andrew, but not being
needed, returned home.
Company E, 39th Regiment. August 12, 1862, to June 2, 1865. Captain,
Frederick R. Kinsley, ist Lt., Joseph J. Giles. 2dLt., Willard C. Kinsley
(promoted to Captain). And the following by promotion — viz.: Captain
Melville C. Parkhurst. ist Lt., John H. Dusseault. 2d Lt., Edwin Mills.
2d Lt., George A. Bodge.

no SOiMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Company B, 5th Regiment. September 19, 1862, to July 2, 1863. Cap
tain, Benjamin F. Parker. 1st Lt., Walter C. Bailey. 2d Lt., John Har
rington. Company B, 5th Regiment. July 25, 1864, to Nov. 16, 1864. Captain,
John N. Coffin. 1st Lt., Charles T. Robinson. 2d Lt., Granville W. Daniels.
The service of these various companies at the front calls for special
mention. C(jmpany I, Fifth Regiment. — Three Months.
The Somerville Light Infantry, Company I, under command of Cap
tain Brastow, left Boston for Washington on Sunday, April 21, 1861, and
arriving there, was quartered with the Regiment in the Treasury Building;
after which it was ordered to Alexandria, to join the command of General
Mansfield. On June 14, it was reviewed by President Lincoln and Cabinet,
and on July 16, ordered forward to Centreville. On the 21st it had its first
experience in battle at the memorable action of Bull Run, in which engage
ment the Somerville Light Infantry faithfully sustained its part and the
honor of the Town. This battle was fought after the Regiment's time of
service had expired.
Somerville lost one man in the action, Edward F. Hannaford, and an
other, William F. Moore, died at Washington of disease.
Company B, Fifth Regiment. — Nine Months.
As before stated, the P"ifth Regiment, in its nine months' campaign, left
Boston on October 22, 1862, and, after a five days' voyage, arrived at New
Berne, N. C, on the 27th. Here it was attached to the brigade commanded
by Colonel Horace C. Lee of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Regiment,
the department being under command of Major-General Foster.
Even before its muskets had arrived, the Regiment received orders to
be in readiness for an expedition, and on October 30 embarked for Wash
ington, N. C, whence, with other forces, it marched for \\'illiamston. After
some skirmishing, nothing else important transpiring, it returned to camp,
November 13, having marched one hundred and sixty miles. In December it
took part in the expedition to Goldsboro, forming the left of the column.
The object of the movement was the destruction of the Weldon Railroad.
On the 14th it was attacked by the enemj', whom it repulsed and drove
in great disorder towards Kinston. On the 16th occurred the battle
of Whitehall, near which place the army had bivouacked, in which the
Union forces were again victorious. On the 17th the column was again in
motion, and reached the railroad about noon. The railroad bridge over the
Neuse River was soon destroyed, and wires cut, which work was accom
plished under fire of the enemy.
The destruction completed, the troops returned, the Fifth Regiment
acting as rear guard "supporting battery," and encountering and repulsing
repeated attacks of the Confederates, and reaching camp on December 31.
After various marches and reconnoissances, on May 22, the Union for-

Residence of Charles B. Sanborn, 26 Adams Street.

Residence of Dr. H. D. OSGOOD, 6 Highland Avenue.

SOMERVILLE, PA.ST AND PRESENT. II 3
ces appeared before the strong works of the rebels at Moseley Creek previ
ously reconnoitred by the Regiment, and which by a simultaneous attack
in front and rear were soon captured, with two hundred prisoners and five
hundred stand of arms, together with horses, wagons and ammunition.
The remaining service was principally picket and similar duty. The
Regiment was highly complimented by General Foster for its faithful ser^
vice. It returned to Boston June 26, and was mustered out at Wenham on
July 2. Co.MPANV B, Fifth Regi.ment. — One Hundred Days.
On July 25, 1864, the Fifth was for the third time mustered into the ser
vice, and on the 28th, under Colonel George H. Peirson, again left for the
field. Arriving at Baltimore, they went into camp at Mamkin's \\'ood.
Their service lasted one hundred days, the term of their enlistment, during
which time they did garrison duty at Forts McHenry and Marshall in Bal
timore, and guard duty at the "Lazarette Magazine," and in charge of
prisoners. They arrived home November 7, 1865, and were mustered out
November 16.
Company E, Thirty-Ninth Regiment. — Three Years.
The " Somerville Guard," under command of Captain Frederick R.
Kinsley, Company E, Thirty-ninth Regiment, which was mustered into ser.
vice August 12, 1862, first went into camp at Lynnfield, and then at Boxford,
Massachusetts. From the latter place, on September 6, it left for Washing
ton, arriving on the 8th. On the 9th, the Regiment was ordered to " Camp
Chase," across Long Bridge. From this time until the next July, it formed
part of the force guarding the line of the Potomac, and the City of Wash
ington and other important points in that department. On the 9th of July,
1863, it was ordered to Harper's Ferry, and, on arriving, marched at once
to Maryland Heights. On the 13th, it joined the Army of the Potomac,
forming a part of the Second Division, First Army Corps. From this time
the Regiment was under constant marching orders, guarding positions, sup
porting cavalry and kindred service, until November 27, when it confronted
the enemy at Mine Run.
On the 28th, Companies E and C were deployed as skirmishers, cover
ing the front of the brigade during the engagement. There they remained
in line of battle until December i, when the Union Army retreated. No
movement of importance occurred after this until May, 1864, at which time
the Regiment took part in the campaign of the Wilderness, where on the
5th, 6th and 8th, it had engagements at Brock's Pike and Laurel Hill, driv
ing in the enemy's cavalry and battery, but, finally meeting with superior
numbers posted behind breastworks, the Regiment was forced to fall
back. On the loth, it was again in the front under heavy infantry and
artillery fire, and here Lieutenant Edwin Mills of the Somerville Company
was among the wounded.
The Regiment soon after marched to Spottsylvania, and on the 26th, to

114 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Bethesda Church, where, as skirmishers, it remained almost continually en
gaged until June 5. On that night it quietly withdrew. After various marches
it arrived at Petersburg on July 16, remaining exposed much of the time to
the fire of artillery and sharpshooters in its vicinity, until August 18, when
it joined the expedition against the Weldon Railroad, and immediately en
gaged the enemy, the action being continued on the 19th. In this battle,
Colonel Peirson was dangerously wounded. Captain Fred. R. Kinsley taken
prisoner, and Lieutenant J. H. Dusseault wounded, both the latter of Com
pany " E" (Somerville).
The loss of the Regiment in these two days was eleven killed, thirty-two
wounded and two hundred and forty-five missing. After many vicissitudes,
skirmishes and arduous marches, the Regiment, on December 7, found it
self again near the Weldon Railroad as skirmishers and in action with the
enemy, after which, and destroying the railroad by burning its ties and
bending its rails, the Regiment was ordered to cover the rear of the army
(now falling back), which was greatly annoyed by the enemy's cavalry.
The casualties of the Regiment during 1864 were thirty-five killed, one
hundred and ninety-one wounded, and two hundred and eighty-nine missing
and prisoners.
On February 6, 1865, the Regiment held the right of the line in the ad
vance at Dabney's Mills, where the enemy's works, though finally taken, had
to be abandoned by the captors for want of support. The assault was re
newed on the 7 th, but was again unsuccessful.
On the loth the Regiment broke camp and went into winter quarters
near Hatcher's Run.
In March the spring campaign opened, and on the 31st a move was
made to Gravelly Run, where the enemy in strong force opened the attack,
pushing back the 39th, which had been hurriedly deployed as skirmishers,
and which left many dead and wounded on the field. Later, upon the arrival
of reinforcements, the lost ground was regained. In this action Lieutenant-
Colonel Tremlett was mortally wounded, and Somerville lost her heroic son.
Captain Willard C. Kinsley, who was wounded, and died the next morning.
Speaking of him, the official account of the battle says, " The Regiment lost
one of its most popular and loved officers, as well as one of its best soldiers."
On the next day, April 1, the Corps united with Sheridan's Cavalry at
Five Forks, the Regiment taking part in the charge and victory of that day.
It occupied a position near the center of the line, and the report says,
"This battle of Five Forks was the most successful one that the Regiment
was ever engaged in. Almost the entire force opposed to us was captured,
and their rout was complete."
By the 9th of April, the 39th was at Appomattox Court House, where
soon after its arrival " all hostilities suddenly ceased, and later in the day,
the entire army opposed to us surrendered."
On May i, the Regiment began its march to Washington. It was now
under the command of Major F. R. Kinsley, the former Captain of Com
pany E (Somerville Guard), who, from the previous August until recently.

A. B. GOOKIN.

Vv

Frederick M. Stodder.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

I I

had been a prisoner in the hands of the Confederates. It arrived at Arling
ton Heights on May 12, and took part in the " Grand Review," at Washing
ton, on May 22. On June 2, it \vas mustered out of the LTnited States
service, and arriving in Massachusetts went into camp at Readville, where
soon after it was paid off, and returned home.
Number of Men in the War.
During the war, Somerville, according to Captain Cunningham, its
recruiting agent, enlisted one thousand four hundred and eighty-five men,
or one hundred and forty-seven more than were called for, of whom ninet}--
eight were killed or died in the service, and about two hundred and fifty
were wounded, and many taken prisoners.
Besides the regular organizations whose services, as Somerville com
panies, have been sketched, there were hundreds of others in the various
regiments of this and other States, and in the regular army and the navy,
under Butler, Banks, Grant, Earragut and other commanders. Their per
sonal services and sufferings in the war, though most worthy of record,
cannot, in the space allowed, be here written.

The following is the
Killed
.\ugust Benz,
Edward E. Brackett,
William Berry,
Martin Bradburn,
William Connellon,
Frank E. Doherty,
Michael Driscoll,
John Ducey,
Samuel O. Felker,
Frederick \. Galletly,
Eugene B. Hadley,
Edward F. Hannaford,
William M. Herbon,
Nathaniel Hazeltine,
Caleb Howard,

The Martyr Roll.
Roll of those who gav
i?i Battle or Died of
Edmund H. Kendall,
David Kendrick,
\\'illard C. Kinsley,
Edward P. Light,
Edward McDonald,
Patrick McCarty,
William McDonald,
H. McGlone,
J. McGuire,
Owen Mclntire,
James McLaughlin,
Corporal (?) Moran,
James Millen,
James Moran,
N. Fletcher Nelson,

e their lives for the Union.
ll'ounds. Anton Otto,
Jeremiah T. Paine,
William D. Palmer,
William Plant,
Robert Powers,
Fred. G. Pruden,
William Reeves,
William P. Ruggles,
John H. Rafferty,
John Van De Sande,
C. C. \\'alden,
John F. Waldon,
William \K . Wardell,
Nathan W. Wilson.

Died in Hospital, Camp, or Prison.

George W. Ay res,
Henry Ashton,
Jonathan Atkinson,
Luther V. Bell,
William H. Bartlett,
\\'illiam Blackwell,

Charles L. Carter,
Edwin D. Cate,
Michael Clifford,
John W. Coffee,
Norman Davis,
Frederick A. Glines,

David Gorham,
George H. Hatch,
Patrick Hayes,
Moses Hazeltine,
George Hiscock,
John Holland,

ii8

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

John E. Horton,
Henry E. Howe,
Richard J. Hyde,
Charles G. Jones,
E. F. Kenniston,
J. W. Langley,
Alvin G. Lovejoy,
Washington Lovett,
Elias Manning,
Louis Mathi,
Edward McDonald,
James Cafferty,

Francis McQuade,
Charles M. Miller,
William F. Moore,
Henry McVey,
Thomas Neville,
John O'Brien,
Francis J. Oliver,
Charles H. Perry,
Albert W. Phillips,
Timothy H. Pitman,
Leonard F. Purington,
Missing.

Sumner P. Rollins,
Patrick Sheridan,
William E. Spurr,
Alonzo W. Temple,
Frank W. Thompson,
Samuel G. Tompkins,
WiUiam H. Blackwell,
John S. Van Cluff,
Isaac C. Whittemore,
Joseph W. Whitmore,
Charles Young.
Albert E. Mitchell.

John S. Roberts,
This list may not be complete, and is probably otherwise imperfect,
as the records are meagre.
In the years to come, when the sorrows of the widow and orphan are
forgotten, Somerville will still recall with, perhaps, increasing pride, the
services of her soldiers in the Union Army in the Civil War. Their memory
deserves a more lasting tribute than tradition, and the city has well begun
upon the work of their record, which, under the City Clerk, has already made
some progress. It is a work in which every citizen should be interested,
and to which all should give every possible aid as the object, when attained
— the preservation of the story of the personal services of each Somerville
soldier — must receive the hearty approval of all, whose friends took part
in the great struggle.

CHAPTER X.
The Town fro.m i86i to 1872.
Improvement of Highways. — Gas Introduced. — Water Supply. — Sewers. —
Great Improvements. — Central Hill Park.' — Horse Railroads. — The To\vn
Farm. — Attempts to Divide the Town. — City Charter and Hall. — First
City Electio.n. Highways.
Notwithstanding the continuous and unusual demands of the four
years' war, the regular business of the town was not neglected. Public im
provements and private enterprises were inaugurated, and the industries of
peace thrived as well as those of war.
The population increased during this period from 8,025 in i860, to 9,353
in 1865, and in 1870 it numbered 14,693. With this increase came calls for
new roads and for improvement of the old ones, and considering the times,
they were met with reasonable liberality.
The work accomplished during this period was too extensive for more
than general notice here. Streets were graded and macadamized, brick

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. II 9
sidewalks built, edgestones set, gutters paved, road-bridges rebuilt, streets
watered and lighted, and new ways laid out — fresh strands in the network
of thoroughfares. In fact, then began the transition from poor to fair or
good roads.
Among the principal improvements during these eleven years, were the
building of College avenue, Holland street. Highland avenue to Davis
square, Prescott and Putnam streets, the westerly part of Pearl street, the
easterly portion of Summer street, and the widening and grading of Walnut
and School streets, and of Willow avenue.
In 1862 the long neglected work of lowering, widening and paving the
^Vashington street roadway, under the Lowell railroad, was finished ; the
bridge and tracks, at the same time, being raised. This low spot formerly
connected by an underground drain with Miller's river ; but in a storm
which occurred on February 22, i860, this old drain was either too small or
became choked, and the place filled with water, into which an unfortunate
hack was driven, nearly drowning its occupants, and resulting, later, in
heavy damages against the town and railroad.
Some of the highway enterprises proposed during the later years of the
town did not meet with the hearty co-operation of its officers. Among
these were the three new avenues ordered by the county commissioners,
and running from Medford into Somerville. College avenue, laid out in
i860, and built in 1861, and Boston and Middlesex avenues, ordered or de
cided on in 1871. These measures were strenuously, though unsuccessfully,
opposed by the selectmen. Of College avenue, they say that they believe
" that neither the town, nor the public, require the laying out of such a
street, but that it was for private purposes and private speculation." Boston
and Middlesex avenues each crossed Mystic river, and bridges were re
quired. Boston avenue commencing at West Medford, crossed the river at
the site of the old Middlesex canal bridge, the old stone piers and abutment
being used for the new bridge. The avenue ended at College avenue, but
has more recently been extended to Broadway.
Middlesex avenue was the extension of a highway from Stoneham and
Maiden, across the Wellington farm in Medford, and over the Mystic river
and Ten Hills farm to Mystic avenue in Somerville. This was first asked
for in 1869. The selectmen voted to oppose this " road to Mystic avenue,
or at any other point in Somerville, not feeling that benefits equal to the
large expense to be incurred could ever be derived by the Town."
An act empowering the county commissioners to lay out this highway
was passed in 1869, and though decided on in 1871, was not built until two
years later.
These avenues, laid out a quarter of a century ago, have yet very few
buildings or improvements, and so far have principally benefited neighbor
ing towns. The laying out of Mystic avenue (Medford turnpike) as a public way
also encountered the opposition of the town, and every effort possible was
made to prevent it, including employment of counsel and appeal to the

rK.y\
'^^^.
i.. .¦
-' ¦"
Robert Duddy.
SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 12 1
legislature, as the avenue up to this time had been property of the Medford
Turnpike corporation, who wished to abandon it and throw the burden of
its maintf.nance on the towns, which in 1S67 they accomplished, since
which time it has been a county highway. Gas.
Under authority of acts of the legislature passed in 1853, gas was intro
duced into the town b}- the Charlestown Gas Company and by the Cam
bridge Gas Company, the dividing line between the territory within which
each company could lay its pipes being the Lowell railroad. It was ten
years later before street lighting became general. In 1863 the town voted
to pay the expense of lighting such street-lamps as the abuttors should
furnish at their own expense. Under this vote ninety-two lamp-posts and
lamps were put up. This was the commencement of our system of street
lighting. By 1871 the number of lamps had increased to two hundred and
thirty-four. Water Supply.
The laying of the Charlestown water-main from Walnut Hill reservoir
through the town opened the way for a water-supply for Somerville which
was authorized by legislative enactments in 1866 and in 186H, and negotia
tions with Charlestown entered into, which resulted in a contract with that
city. This contract, though not entirely satisfactor}' in its terms, secured
to Somerville its present supply. An experienced engineer, Mr. Roberdeau
Buchanan, was engaged and a pipe system for the town planned, and before
the close of the year some two miles or more of pipe were laid.
The Charlestown act of 1861 gave authority for supplying water to
hydrants in Somerville, and meanwhile many were set. In 1866 the first
steam fire-engine was purchased replacing the old " Somerville One," which,
like its predecessor, "Mystic Six,' was stored for a while and then sold.
Sewers.
With the introduction of water came the demand for sewers. Before
the war there were no public sewers in the town. There were one or two
private drains in East Somerville, running across lots, and some others
crudely built with brick invert and stone covering, in Oak and other private
streets west of Prospect.
The first public sewer was built in Marshall street in 1867, Messrs.
Winning and Gordon being the contractors ; the work cost about two thou
sand dollars.
In 1868, sewers were laid in three different sections of the town ; over
a mile in all. The first was the Linwood street, with laterals in Fitchburg
and Poplar streets ; its outlet was into Miller's river. The second ran from
the southerly end of Bow street, across Union square to the creek in Web
ster avenue, and the third extended from Summer street, down Harvard,
Beech and Spring streets, across Somerville avenue and through Kent street

122 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
to the railroad ditch. The three sections costing nine thousand eight hun
dred and sixty-four dollars.
Calls for sewers now became frequent, and in 1869 a general survey
and plan was ordered, for a sewer system, in conformity to which future
sewers were to be constructed. It was also recommended that " Some
order should be taken, looking to the construction of trunk sewers." The
survey and plan, thus outlined, were commenced but never completed.
The want of proper outlets and the necessity for strict economj' were serious
obstacles. In 1869, 3,986 feet of new sewers were laid, and 2,078 feet of private
sewers purchased by the town, at a cost in all, of about $12,000.
In 1870 and 1871 a large number of sewers were built. In 1870, 18,380
feet, costing $49,304 ; and in 1871, 11,937 feet, costing $24,042. The principal
were as follows : in Elm and Milk streets from Cherry to Prospect. In
Medford street from the Fitchburg railroad to Grand Junction railroad. In
Mystic avenue from the Maine railroad northerly. In Perkins and Mount
Pleasant streets and Broadway. In Broadway from Marshall street and
across the present park, to the creek beyond Mystic avenue. In Broadway
from Broadway park, to Cross street, and in Cross street to a culvert near
Pearl. In Lincoln, Arlington and Franklin streets ; in Putnam and Pres
cott streets ; and in Summer and Bow streets from School to Walnut street.
In Glen and Brooks streets. In Otis street, in Vinal avenue and in School
street. The difficult problem in all the foregoing work was that of an out
let. Every sewer, up to this time, emptied into some ditch or water-course,
and many then built still continue to do so.
Other Town Matters.
The years 1870 and 1871 were busy ones for the town government.
Besides extensive sewer and highway constructions, many other prominent
matters claimed consideration ; among the more important were the organ
ization of a police force, the purchase of the Central Hill park, the build
ing of the new engine-house thereon, and stables on the town farm, all in
1870. The consideration of the proposed Middlesex and Boston avenue
bridges, ordered by the county over Mystic river, the erection of a new high
school building in 1871, the enforcement of the liquor law, the defense of
the town against claims, and damage suits. The preparation of the city
charter, and the consequent legislation. The division of the proposed city
into wards, and the arrangements necessary for the election of city officers.
Central Hill Park.
One of the most important of the foregoing was the purchase of the
present Central Hill park land in 1870. This land formerly belonged to
Jacob Sleeper of Boston. It cost the town about thirty-eight thousand
dollars. It was what was known in 1 788 as one of the " Church lots," being
then the property of the " First Church of Charlestown." This purchase
did not meet the entire approval of the citizens, many thinking that Pros-

v<v.

John Andrews.

George W. Ireland.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 125
pect hill, with its extensive views and hallowed memories, was a more appro
priate location for public grounds and buildings, and that it could have
been bought at a smaller price ; concerning it, the selectmen say : " This
purchase definitely settled the question of a recognized center. This ques
tion being no longer in dispute, plans for the future development of the
town may be made with especial reference to this fact." This was the
first of Somerville parks, and the only one before it became a city.
Horse Railroads.
In 1861 a survey was made for a proposed street railway from Union
square through Somerville avenue to East Cambridge, and thence to Sud
bury street in Boston.
The originator of this project was General William L. Burt, afterward
postmaster of Boston.
The work was finished in 1864, and was the first railway in Somerville,
built in the middle of the street. A location was granted for another road
through Franklin and Pearl streets, but it was never built.
The inconvenience of railroad tracks at the sides of the streets was
soon recognized, and efforts made for their removal to the center, opposed
and delayed of course by the companies ; but in 1871 this change was made
in Somerville avenue and Elm street, from LTnion square to Cherry street,
at a cost to the town of about 51 1,000 ; and by 1875 s-'l others had been re
moved from side to center. Town Far.m.
The present " town farm " was originally purchased for a cemetery, but
being "swampy and wet" it was abandoned for that use. In 1863 it was
put up at auction, but "the bids not, coming up to the views of the board, it
was not sold." The farm "from long neglect had become almost a barren
waste," in 1864, at an expense of about eight hundred dollars, the brush
and stone were removed from it and the land thoroughly tile-drained. In
1 871 a "stable" and "hay barn" "separated by a brick wall and fire-proof
door " were built on the estate, with stalls for twenty horses, and also a
" neat and convenient double tenement for the use of the men."
Attempts to Divide the Town.
In 1 865 an attempt was made to annex a portion of West Somerville to
Cambridge. The valuation of this tract was about one hundred thousand
dollars. The matter came before the legislature, was successfully opposed
by the selectmen, and the petitioners given leave to withdraw. The ground
of complaint was the want of school accommodations, which the school
committee also recognized, and which brought the suggestion from the
selectmen, that " now it is for the town to decide whether they will give the
required accommodations, and thereby prevent another petition of like
nature from our townsmen." But the petitions were not prevented; for in
1S68 two more were presented to the General Court, asking a division of
the town, which were again defeated.

126 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
City Charter and Hall.
It was probably about this time that the idea of a city charter was first
entertained, a census, this year, being taken, showing the population of the
town to be 12,535, or more than requisite for a city, and the number of
houses, 1,933.
In 1 87 1 the new high schoolhouse was built, and soon after, the present
city hall (the first high school) vacated. Anticipating this want, the select
men in their report say that " when the present building is vacated, we re
commend its removal to a more suitable location on the town land, near
where it now stands ; and that its external architecture be modernized, by
adding a few modest ornaments, so that the general appearance of this
building shall moderately correspond with the buildings erected on this
land," and further suggest that a " suitable lock up " be built in it, and
offices for the selectmen and other officials ; thereby " deferring for many
years the necessity of building a town house or city hall." The moderniz
ing of its " external architecture," after a lapse of twenty-five years, is now
being accomplished. First City Election.
On April 14, 1871, the act establishing the city of Somerville was ap
proved and accepted by the voters at a town meeting held for that purpose
on April 27. On December 4 the first city election occurred, resulting in
the choice of George O. Brastow as mayor, and of a board of aldermen and
councilmen whose names are given in the history of the city government in
this volume.
In this historical relation of the town, and further on of the city, mention
of schools, churches and other institutions, and of the town and city de
partment are purposely curtailed or omitted, as they are treated of specially
in succeeding chapters of this book.

CHAPTER XI.
SO.MERVILLE AS A CiTY.

.'Vl'PRECIATlON IN VaLUE OF REAL ESTATE. — GREAT INCREASE OF HOUSES. — StEAM
Railroads. — Extension of Street Railways. — West End Railway. — Widen
ing OF Somerville Avenue and Broadway. — The Broadway Park. — The
Miller's River Nuisance. — Annexation to Boston Discussed. — Parks and
BouLicvARDS. — Tufts College. — Old Landmarks.
In January, 1872, the new city government was duly installed and or
ganized. Their names are mentioned in the next chapter. The officials
placed in charge of the several departments were the following : —
City Clerk, Charles E. Oilman ; City Treasurer and Collector, Aaron
Sargent ; City Solicitor, Selwin Z. Bowman ; City Engineer, Charles D.

Cyrus F. Crosby. Person Davis. Francis Houghton. Charles T. Oilman. John G. Hall.
Horace Haskins. Jacob T. Glines. Austin Belknap. Charles S. Lincoln. Robert A. Vinal.
Last Board of Selectmen of Somerville, 1871.

Wm. H.Furber. Jacob T. Glines. C.E. Oilman. Aaron Sargent. Selwyn Z. Bowman. Person Davis.
Daniel E.Chase. Clark Bennett. Geo. O. Brastow. J.G.Hall. Horace Haskins. John R. Poor.
The First Board of Mayor and Aldermen, and Officers, 1872.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 29
Elliot ; City Physician, William W. Dow ; Clerk of Council, Solomon Davis ;
City Messenger, Jairus Mann ; Chief of Police, Melville C. Parkhurst ;
Superintendent of Streets, Franklin Henderson ; Chief of Fire Department,
James R. Hopkins ; Assessors, John C. Magoun, Sabin M. Smith, Thomas
Cunningham ; Superintendent of Schools, Joshua H. Davis.
Real Esi'ate.
The building of horse-railroads and introduction of water, sewers and
gas gave a wonderful impetus to real estate transactions, which even the
financial depression occurring a few years later failed to check. The
erection of Masonic Block in Union square by Thomas Cunningham,
Robert A. Vinal, C. S. Lincoln and Philip Eberle was the precursor of im
provements. In 1870 Pythian Block was built, followed soon by Warren
Block, Odd Fellows Block, Hill Building, and the block adjacent on Somer
ville avenue, all of which were erected by Ira Hill, who was associated in
some of these enterprises with Col. Elijah Walker, Maj. George R. Abbott
and Charles E. Lyon. Mr. Hill alone, or with his associates, laid out and
built over several tracts of land in the years from 1870 to 1874. Among
these were the Warren and Columbus avenue districts, the territory east of
Walnut street between Boston street and Highland avenue, including the
Grandview, Pleasant and Summit avenue estates, and large tracts in West
Somerville on Holland and Elm streets, through which they laid out Wal
lace, Chandler, Winter and other streets. The energy of Mr. Hill in devel
oping real estate has seldom been surpassed in the town or city.
Some sections of the city developed slowly and continuously, as East
Somerville, and Spring and Central Hills, which were among the first sec
tions lotted for the market, the latter two by the enterprise of George O.
Brastow, who was the pioneer in the development of those sections, fifty
years ago. Other parts of the city grew rapidly, as Union, Davis and Gil-
man squares and their vicinities.
Among other earlier real estate ventures while Somerville was a town
may be mentioned the lotting and building up of the property between
Webster avenue and Prospect street, and west of that street, the Oak and
Houghton street district, the owners being Francis and Amory Houghton,
the projectors of the Glass \\'orks. Another section opened up by Mr.
Amory Houghton was the land between Somerville avenue and the Fitch
burg railroad, west of Dane street to Park street. The Dane, Hudson and
Vine streets territory, and the Joseph Clark estate on Newton, Clark and
other streets were also put on the market before the war.
During the war real estate languished, but revived a few years after, so
that the period from 1869 to 1875 saw many old estates laid out and built
over. Among these were the Putnam, Prescott and School streets territory,
formerly the Jotham Johnson estate ; the Vinal avenue, Quincy and Church
streets territory, formerly the property of Robert Vinal ; property on Pros
pect Hill, built over and marketed by Maj. Granville \\'. Daniels; the
Newton street. Concord avenue and Springfield street district, owned by

130 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
John O'Brien, and the Clarendon Hill territory by John W. Vinal and
others. Then came another period -of business and real estate depression,
which lasted till about 1880. The estates that have been laid out and put
upon the market since that time are numerous, the larger ones being the
Stickney estate on Broadway and School street, the Oliver Tufts property
between School and Central streets, the George W. Ireland estate on School
and Summer streets, the Hawkins (or Lake) properties on Somerville ave
nue and Washington street ; part of Mrs. M. P. Lowe's estate on Summer
street, the R. P. Benton land on Avon and Berkeley streets, the Wyatt
(brick-yard) land on Washington street, the Osgood Dane property on
Somerville avenue and Granite street, the A. W. Tufts et al. property on
Pearl street, the John Runey estate on Cross street, the Wheeler estate
(" Ox pasture ") in East Somerville, the Harrington and Brine land on
Spring Hill, the Russell estate on Elm street, the Charles Robinson prop
erty on Central and Medford streets, the Trull estate on Oxford street, the
" Clark and Bennett land" on Central and Gibbens streets, the J. C. Ayer
estate on Highland avenue, the Nathan Tufts (Powder House) property,
the J. M. Shute estates on Somerville avenue. Central and Cambria streets
and Westwood road, the Stearns estate (Polly Swamp) north of Highland
avenue, the lands on the northerly slope of Spring Hill, laid out originally
by R. H. Conwell, and the adjacent estate of J. D. Prindle. Most of the
foregoing have been built up within the last ten or fifteen years, and gener
ally with a class of houses creditable to the builders and the city.
Steam Railroads.
The principal factor in the unprecedented growth of W^est Somerville
was the building of the Lexington and Arlington railroad. The Lexington
railroad formerly branched from the Fitchburg not far from Fresh Pond,
but in 1870 its route east of Alewife Brook was changed so as to connect
with the Lowell railroad at Somerville Junction. Several years later the
Massachusetts Central obtained its location over the Lowell and part of
this new Lexington branch, which, meanwhile, had been extended to Con
cord. With the exception of the "Mystic river" freight track across the
Asylum grounds, these two steam railroads were the only permanent ones
built in Somerville since the war.
A railroad branching from the Boston & Maine across the Ten Hills
farm, thence to Winchester and beyond was projected and partially graded
and;afterwards abandoned. It was known as the " Mystic Valley Railroad."
Street Railroads.
An extension of the Broadway tracks over Winter Hill to Medford via
Main street was early made. It was, like the others, a side track T-rail
road, and was run by the Charlestown & Medford Railroad Company. The
selectmen ordered it to the center, but the company neglecting or refusing.

Ezra D. Souther.

Irving L. Russell.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. I 33
its location in Main street was revoked. In 1884 the Middlesex Company
reopened this line, the change to the center of the street meanwhile having
been made.
In 1881 the Charles River Street Railway was organized, and soon it
laid tracks in Summer and Bow streets and through Union square and
Webster avenue to Cambridge street, and others in Newton, Springfield
and Beacon streets. It was built as an opposition to the Cambridge, whose
tracks its charter gave it the right to use from Cambridge to Boston. It
was a popular line, but not being a financial success, in 1886 it was consoli
dated with the Cambridge. The same year the Middlesex, which leased or
ran several of the other Somerville roads, combined with the Highland (a
South Boston line which ran in competition with the Metropolitan), taking
the name. Boston Consolidated. Meanwhile the Elm street tracks had been
extended up Holland street to Broadway.
In 1886 two rival companies for Somerville patronage, the Cambridge
and the Consolidated, petitioned for locations in Cross and Medford streets
and Highland avenue to Davis square, and in Pearl and Medford streets to
Central street. The contest for these locations was vigorous but the Con
solidated won, and bj' the close of 1887 had laid tracks in most of these
streets. West End Railway.
" The West End Street Railway Company " was the outgrowth of the
West End Land Company, formed by Mr. Henry M. Whitney and others for
the development of real estate along Beacon street in Boston and Brookline
by making that thoroughfare a broad boulevard. To ensure success in this
enterprise a charter was procured for a " \\'est End Street Railway " over
the proposed boulevard location. The opposition to this line by other
street railways resulted in the ^^'est End Railway acquiring controlling in
terest in all the other roads excepting the Lynn & Boston, and obtaining
legislation by which they were all consolidated under the management of the
\\'est End, which was finally consummated on November 11, 1887.
In or about 1889 the overhead electric system of propulsion was intro
duced, after a careful examination had been made hy Mr. Whitney of its
workings in Richmond, Va. It was first applied on the Beacon street and
Brookline routes and soon became general. \\'ithin a few years the ^^'est
End road has made many improvements in the Somerville service, among
which may be mentioned the increased number of trips, especially on the
West Somerville line, the extension of that line to Alewife Brook, and of
the Medford street line to Magoun square, the recent opening of the new
line from Highland avenue via Medford street and Somerville avenue to
Boston, together with improved road-bed, more easy riding cars, and a new
and liberal system of transfers.
Wideni.ng of Somerville Avenue and Broadway.
The most important highway improvements since 1872 have probably
been the widening of Somerville avenue, and paving it, and the adjacent

134 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
thoroughfares, and the widening of Broadway. Somerville avenue was
formerly fifty feet in width, but in 1873 the County Commissioners laid it
out anew seventy-five feet wide from East Cambridge to LTnion square and
seventy feet from Union square to North Cambridge. The lines were so
run that only one or two shade trees and very few buildings required re
moval. The avenue, over two miles in length, was rebuilt to its new width
in 1874 at a cost for land damages of $86,000, and for construction of about
$90,000. Broadway was widened and straightened on its northerly side in 1875,
making it two hundred feet in width opposite the park. This measure met
with serious opposition, speculative motives being ascribed to its originators.
It was built in 1874 and 1875, and cost about $75,000 for land and construc
tion. Broadway Park.
With the Broadway widening was associated the laying out and con
struction of the Broadway park : they were mutual enterprises. The park
scheme originated with the owners of Convent hill, Messrs. Klous and Lord.
It met with fierce opposition, and its effect on local politics was volcanic,
resulting, in 1876, in a complete overturn of the city government which in
augurated it, and in the election of an anti-park administration. The feeling
against the park was so strong that, after its opponents came into power, it
was even proposed to lay it out anew into lots and sell it for building pur
poses. Most of the ground which was filled over for the park was an old
marsh, so soft and deep that, in building the fence around it, the posts were
set on piles and a timber structure on piles built to sustain the curbing of
the pond, the bottom of which has a double flooring of boards covered with
gravel to prevent the paving sinking into the mud.
Miller'.s River.
Previous to 1855, andperhaps for some years after. Miller's River was a
comparatively pure stream ; it was the fishing and bathing place for that
section of the town. In 1855 Mr. John P. Squire purchased a lot of land
on the East Cambridge side of the river, and built his first establishment,
its product being one animal daily. At first this caused little or no annoy
ance, but the phenomenal growth of Mr. Squire's business, and the building
shortly after of another similar establishment by Mr. Charles H. North,
followed later by other concerns, soon changed the Miller's River district
into a malodorous and unenviable locality. It was several years, however,
before complaints became general. The first reference to this nuisance by
the selectmen was in their report of 1869 ; and in their report of 1870 they
say, " Slaughter Houses, Pork and Lard factories, are questions to be con
sidered. . . . Shall they be erected and maintained on or near our main
thoroughfares and in the midst of a crowded population ? . . Does our
town become more attractive, wholesome, or desirable as a place of resort
or residence ? " etc.

Walter C. Mentzer.

Residence of Walter C. Mentzer, 36 Cherry Street.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 137
Cambridge meanwhile had taken action in the matter, and in 1872, by
the combined efforts of the two cities, an act was obtained, supplemented by
others, providing for the abatement of the nuisance by the construction of
a trunk sewer through Somerville avenue, and the filling of the Miller's
River basin. This work was begun in 1873 and completed in 1874; the
sewer, eight feet in diameter inside, being one of the largest ever built in
Boston or vicinity. Other Events.
Among the many events, municipal or otherwise, which have occurred
since Somerville became a city, may be mentioned the semi-centennial
celebration of 1892, described elsewhere, the agitation for annexation of
this city to Boston, the movement for a soldiers' memorial building, and the
consideration of the subject of more parks and of boulevards.
Annexation.
The question of annexation to Boston has been informally considered
and discussed, on several occasions, by the citizens of Somerville, so far,
without definite result. In 1893 it received greater attention than ever be
fore. The merging into and becoming an important factor in a great
metropolis has, to some, alluring features, and those who favored it worked
zealously to aiccomplish the measure ; but the sentiment of the city has not
as yet seemed favorable to its achievement. Parks.
The subject of parks and boulevards has often engrossed the attention
of the citizens and city government. A movement to preserve that vener
able structure, the Powder House, resulted in its gift to the city with a
small tract around it, by the owners, the purchase of more land, and the
laying out of the grounds, which were named the " Nathan Tufts Park," in
honor of the former owner, whose heirs presented it.
The foundation for another park has been laid by the purchase of the
" Wyatt pits " estate near Washington street, which probably will ere
long gladden the denizens of that section with its lawns and walks. In 1891
the trustees of the estate of J. C. Ayer offered a tract of land opposite the
Highlands station, on the Lexington railroad, for park purposes, but in the
unusual agitations and troubles of that year the matter was laid over by the
city government and there rests.
In the spring of this 5'ear, 1896, another park was proposed on the
southerly slope of Prospect Hill to include the revolutionary remains and
site of the old " citadel." The suggestion was received with much favor, a
public meeting was held, and an association formed to further the project.
No more appropriate spot could be found for a memorial building to
commemorate the services and sufferings of the soldiers of two wars, the
Revolution and the Rebellion, than this, their old camping-ground.

138 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Tufts College.
The desirability of a denominational institution of learning had been
under discussion for some time among leading Universalists of America ;
but the first step taken for its realization was by the Rev. Thomas J. Saw
yer of New York City, now of Somerville.
In the spring of 1847 he wrote to the Rev, Hosea Ballon, 2d, of Med
ford, and the Rev. Thomas Whittemore of Cambridgeport, in relation to it,
and soon after issued circulars, calling for a convention in New York on
the 1 8th of May. At this meeting the need of such an institution was
fully considered and decided upon, and a board of fifteen trustees elected.
The Rev. Otis A. Skinner was appointed agent to solicit funds, the
required amount being one hundred thousand dollars, all of which was
subscribed before the close of 1851.
It was at first proposed to locate the College in New York State, in
either the Hudson or Mohawk Valleys. Meanwhile Mr. Oliver Dean, of
Franklin, Mass., who afterward founded Dean Academy, by offer of liberal
endowment, endeavored to secure its location in that town.
It was destined to overlook none of the fair valleys of the Hudson,
Mohawk or Charles, but that of the romantic Mystic ; for the liberal offer of
Mr. Charles Tufts of Somerville, of twenty acres on Walnut Hill, was ac
cepted as the most desirable place, from its view, surroundings, and prox
imity to a great metropolis. Mr. Tufts' gift of twenty acres was soon
increased to one hundred, supplemented by an additional tract of twenty
acres from Mr. Timothy Cotting of Medford.
In appreciation of Mr. Tufts' generous gift, the College was given his
name. Other liberal donations were also received ; among the most prom
inent givers were Sylvanus Packard, Thomas A. Goddard, and Doctor
William J. Walker. Mr. Packard's gifts and bequests amounted to between
three and four hundred thousand dollars, and Dr. \\'alker's to about two
hundred thousand.
In 1852 the charter for the college was obtained. It bears the signatures
of three historic names : N. P. Banks, Speaker of the House ; Henry Wilson,
President of the Senate ; and George S. Boutwell, Governor. The incorpo
rators were B. B. Muzzey, Timothy Cotting, and Richard Frothingham, Jr.
At a meeting of the trustees on July 21, 1852, Rev. Thomas J. Sawyer was
unanimously elected president, but he declined the office, and the choice
then fell on Rev. Hosea Ballon, 2d, who retained the presidency until his
death in 1861.
On July 23, 1853, the corner-stone of the first building, " Ballou Hall,"
was laid. The day was beautiful ; large awnings surmounted with Ameri
can flags were provided for the ladies, a special train was furnished by the
Lowell railroad, and between fifteen hundred and two thousand persons
were present. Among the exercises was a hymn written by Mrs. N. T.
Munroe, a prominent member of the first Universalist Society of Somerville.
Three students commenced study in 1854, though the building was not
completed and formally opened until August 22, 1855.

n
o

o

Charles H. Taylor.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 41
The attendance upon the opening exercises was large, six hundred or
more arriving by special train. A banquet was spread for nine hundred
guests, among whom were Mr. and Mrs. Tufts, and hundreds were turned
away. The first toast given was to their most honored guest, " Charles
Tufts, the venerable founder of Tufts College ; may the fruition of his proj
ect gladden his heart through all his earthly journey," to which the com
pany responded by rising and giving cheers. The exercises closed with
the singing of " From all that dwell below the skies."
In 1862 Rev. A. A. Miner was inaugurated as the second president
and successor of Mr. Ballou, deceased. Dr. Miner held the office twelve
years, resigning in December, 1874, and was followed in March, 1875, by
Rev. Elmer H. Capen, its present president.
Many other bequests have been made beside the ones mentioned ; those
from the State, from P. T. Barnum, and from the estate of the Honorable
Charles Robinson being the most important. The founder of this institu
tion was a citizen of Somerville, as is its president and are most of its pro
fessors. Most of its landed possessions are also here, with some of its
buildings, its campus and its principal avenues of approach ; and thus with
Medford, Somerville shares the renown of this " First Universalist College
in the World."
Charles Tufts was a descendant of Peter Tufts, who settled in Maiden
previous to 1638. Mr. Tufts lived on the northerly side of Washington
street, west of the Lowell railroad, which his property adjoined; the house
is still standing. Old Landmarks.
Many mementos of former days still remain. Our hills are yet here,
though from most have disappeared all traces of their revolutionary occupa
tion. Until within a few years remains of old forts and breastworks were
visible; those on the Central Hill park were dug away in 1878 regardless of
protests ; the " Fort " on this park is modern, and was built in 1885. It has
no histor}' and is not on the lines of the revolutionary works, although with
in their enclosure. The cannon in it were used in the defenses of Washing
ton during the Civil War. On an estate on the opposite side of Highland
avenue old breastworks were still in existence in 1892, where now is an
apartment house. There was also an old redoubt on the top of a ledgy
knoll near Mystic avenue, commanding a long reach of Mystic River; a few
years earlier, a little higher up\Vinter Hill stood another redoubt, since dug
down in excavating the ledge. On the southerly slope of Prospect Hill
revolutionary traces still remain, — tradition says they were the old tent-holes
of 1775, or perhaps of the Burgoyne prisoners. These are all that are now
left in the city.
There are many houses of a century or more ago, some prerevolution-
ary, among these Mr. Blaisdell's on Somerville avenue, where Samuel Tufts
lived in 1775, and which was later General Greene's headquarters, and the
Oliver Tufts house on Sycamore street, the headquarters of General Lee.

142 SOMERl'ILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
In 1890 the city erected tablets on many historic spots, they were as
follows : —
On Abner Blaisdell's house, Somerville avenue : " Headquarters of
Brigadier-General Nathaniel Greene, in command of the Rhode Island
Troops during siege of Boston. 1775-6."
On the Oliver Tufts house. Sycamore street, now owned by Mrs. Flet
cher : " Headquarters of Major-General Charles Lee, commanding left wing
of the American Army during the siege of Boston. 1775-6."
On the stonework of the battery, Central Hill park : " This battery was
erected by the city in 1885, and is within the lines of the 'French Redoubt,'
built by the Revolutionary Army in 1775, as a part of the besieging lines of
Boston. — The guns were donated by Congress, and were in service during
the late Civil War."
On Prospect Hill : " On this Hill the Union Flag, with its Thirteen
Stripes — the Emblem of the United Colonies — First bade Defiance to an
Enemy, January i, 1776. — Here was t;he Citadel, the most formidable work
in the American Lines during the siege of Boston : June 17, 1775, to March
17, 1776." On Elm street, corner of Willow avenue : " A sharp fight occurred here,
between the Patriots and the British, April 19, 1775. — This marks British
Soldiers' graves.'
On Washington street, corner of Dane street : " John Woolrich, Indian
trader, built near this place in 1630. — The first white settler on Somerville
soil." At junction Broadway and Main street : " Paul Revere passed over this
road, in his midnight ride to Lexington and Concord, April 18, 1775. — Site
of the 'Winter Hill Fort,' a stronghold built by the American Forces while
besieging Boston, 1775-6."
On Washington street opposite Rossmore street : " On this Hillside
James Miller, Minute-man, aged 65, was slain by the British, April 19, 1775.
— ' I am too old to run.' "
Though required improvements may sometimes sweep away ancient
monuments, yet those interested in local history view with regret the often
times needless destruction of landmarks which recall so vividly the story of
the past.

Nature and circumstance have given Somerville an admirable location.
On the north and west are the classic halls of Tufts and of Harvard ; to the
south and east, the metropolis and the heights of Bunker Hill. In the near
valley ebbs and flows the silent Mystic. In their midst is Somerville " on
her seven hills," each crowned with a historic halo, and from each extends
a beautiful and widening landscape, thick with villages and cities, fading
among pleasant hills and valleys in the misty distance.

His Honor Albion A. Perry.

George 1. Vincent.

HISTORY OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT.
BY GEORGE L VL\XENT.

CHAPTER XII.
YiRST Board of Officers. — Statistics of Population, Valuation, etc — Abatement
OF THE Miller's River Nuisance. — Mayor Furber's Ahministratiox. — Erectkjn
OF New Police Building. — Constructio.\ of the Broadway Park. — Gre.\t
Sanitary Improvement. — Mayor Belknap's Admintstratio.n. — Conspruction of
L.A.RGE Sewers. — Comit.etion of the Public Park. — First Contribution to
THE SiNKiNo Fund. — Ad.ministkation of Mayor Bruce. — Reco.nstruction of
Bridges. — Ad.ministration of May(jr Cummings. — Tmpro\'E.ments on Central
Hill. — Erection of New Building for the Public Library.
Somerville became incorporated as a city under an act of the legisla
ture, chapter 182 of the Acts of 1871, which was approved by the governor,
April 14, and accepted by the voters of the town, April 27, 1871.
As directed by the act of incorporation, the selectmen, on the twenty-
third of September, 1871, divided the town into four wards, which still
remain unchanged, and, on the eighteenth day of November following,
issued warrants for the holding of an election, in the several wards, on the
fourth day of December, of a mayor, eight aldermen, two to be selected
from each ward, four common councilmen and three members of the school
committee from each ward, and the necessary officers to conduct elections
in the several wards ; the mayor and aldermen to be voted for at large, and
the remaining officers by the voters of their respective wards only.
The election resulted in the choice of the following named officers to
assume the management of the new city, for the year 1872 : —
Mayor, George O. Brastow. Aldermen : William H. Furber and George
W. Hadley of ward one; Clark Bennett and Daniel E. Chase of ward two;
Jacob T. Glines and John R. Poor of ward three ; Person Davis and John
G. Hall of ward four. Common Councilmen : Ezra D. Conant, Edwin A.
Curtis, Michael Dechan and Charles G. Pope of ward one ; John T. Bolton,
Oren S. Knapp, Patrick Rafferty and George W. Wyatt of ward two ; ^\'al-
ter S. Barnes, Stewart French, Albert Kenneson and Henry F. Woods of
ward three; Wesley C. Crane, Thomas H. Lord, Nathaniel Morrison and
Christopher E. Rymes of ward four.
George \\. Hadley resigned the office of alderman, March 2 ; and March
13, Horace Haskins was elected to succeed him.
The city charter, except in the preliminaries above mentioned, did not
'45

146

SO.MERVILLE, P.IST .IND PRESENT.

take effect until the first Monday, which was also the first day of January,
1872. On that day, at ten o'clock in the forenoon, the mayor, aldermen
and common councilmen assembled, in pursuance of notice from the board
of selectmen, in the " Old High School Building," on Highland avenue,
which was, soon after, converted into a city hall. The meeting was called
to order by Austin Belknap, chairman of the board of selectmen, and after
prayer by the Reverend Henry H. Barber, pastor of the First Congrega
tional Society (Unitarian) of Somerville, the oaths of office were adminis
tered to the several officers by Columbus Tyler, Esq., justice of the peace.
The common council then withdrew, and organized by the choice of Oren
S. Knapp as president, and Solomon Davis as clerk, and, immediately after,
the board of aldermen and the common council, in joint convention,
elected, as the first city clerk, Charles E. Gilman, who had served as town
clerk ever since the setting off of Somerville from Charlestown, in 1842.
Mayor Brastow, in his first inaugural address, made a statement show
ing the growth of the town, the items of which are presented in the follow
ing table, as are also the corresponding items for the year 1896 : —
Population of Somerville
Assessed value of taxable
property
Whole amount of money
raised by taxation .
Number of schools
Number of school teachers
Whole amount appropriated
for the support of schools
Amount of debt, including
water debt
Valuation of public property
Number of church edifices
The most important measure that demanded the attention of the first
city government, and one of great magnitude, was the abatement of the
nuisance in that part of Miller's River which extended from the Boston and
Lowell railroad, at the Cambridge and Somerville line, to the rear of the
Union Glasshouse on Webster avenue. This river received the drainage from
two large slaughter-houses and several sausage and grease factories, situ
ated in Cambridge and Somerville, and some house drainage ; and the ac
cumulation of filth upon its flats, which were bare at low tide, caused an
intolerable nuisance, which was a serious menace to the health and pros
perity of both Cambridge and Somerville. As a result of the joint efforts
of the two cities before the legislatures of 1872 and 1873, laws were enacted,
in the latter year, for the filling, by the land owners, of the river and the low
lands adjoining, and for the construction of a trunk sewer from Craigie
Bridge, on the Charles River, in Cambridge, through Bridge street, in Cam
bridge, and Milk street (now Somerville avenue), in Somerville, to Pros
pect street ; the cost of the construction and maintenance of said sewer to
be borne by Somerville and Cambridge, in the proportions, which were

1842.

1871.

1872.

1896.

1,013

16,

000

55,000

'88,513

515.775,000

?49>o23,S50

if4,7S0

,*26o 460

5786,412
44
5^
6S
154
220
#1,800
559.400
5206,000
?S93 566o
.349,000
51.506.500
52.356,620
0
1 1
30
George A. Bruce.

George O. Brastow.

William H. Furber.

Austin Belknap.

Aaron Sargent.

Douglas Frazar.

Clarence E. Meleney.

Jairus Mann.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 49
afterwards determined, of five-ninths for Somerville, and four-ninths for
Cambridge. The carrying out of these measures, which was begun in the year 1873,
wrought such a change that a recent comer can hardly realize the previous
condition of the district.
The policy of constructing brick sidewalks was inaugurated by the first
city government, under an act, obtained from the legislature, authorizing
the assessment of one-half the cost upon the abutting estates, and several
miles were laid during the two years of Mayor Brastow's administration,
viz. 1872 and 1873.
The city council of 1872 also made provision for a public library, which
was opened, in the city hall. May 1, 1873, with 2,386 volumes.
Other great improvements made by the government of 1873 were the
widening of Highland avenue, between Medford and Central streets, to a
uniform width of sixty feet, and the increasing of the width of Milk street
(now Somerville avenue) its entire length, from the East Cambridge line to
North Cambridge. The greater part of the work on the latter improvement
was done in the year 1874.
Mayor William H. Furber's administration, covering the years 1S74
and 1875, is specially memorable for the laying out and construction of the
Broadway Park and the widening and straightening of Broadway, on the
northerly side, between Temple street and Mount Benedict. During the
same period the new police building on Bow street was erected, the exten
sion of the trunk sewer in Milk, Washington and Beacon streets, from
Prospect street to Kent street, was begun, the widening and reconstruction
of Milk street was completed, and brick sidewalks were laid on both sides
in its entire length. The name of Milk street was then changed to Somer
ville avenue. Until the erection of the new police building, the police de
partment had occupied the one-story wooden building at the southerly corner
of Milk and Prospect streets, now occupied by the water board, and the
police court, since the incorporation of the city, had occupied a room in
the city hall. Most of the room which the court vacated was added to the
space occupied by the public library.
Another most important measure was the introduction of the electric
fire alarm system, which was completed and put in operation June 17, 1874.
No other measure, in the history of the city, has caused such intense
feeling and bitter controversy as did the laying out and construction of the
Broadway Park. Under an act of the legislature passed in March, 1874, a
section of land comprising some sixteen acres, lying in a hollow between
Winter Hill and Mount Benedict, and extending from Broadway to Mystic
avenue, was acquired for the purposes of a public park, and the city also
secured, without cost, a strip fifty feet in width, for an avenue, on either
side of the park lands, and the filling required for the park and the two
avenues. This land was about three feet below the grade established by
the city as a sanitary protection, and was, to a certain extent, the natural
basin for the watershed of the elevations between which it lay. In the

ISO SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
language of Mayor P'urber's inaugural address of 1875, it " was being rapidly
and densely built upon, without change of grade, and the drainage of many
of the buildings erected allowed to flow unmolested upon the surface, thus
forming a nucleus for pestilence and disease, that was tending to depreciate
the surrounding property and to jeopardize the health of the dwellers there
on." Before applying to the legislature, the owners of the adjacent lands
endeavored to secure the territory by private purchase, but a few of the
owners refused to sell at any price.
Although the plans for the improvement of the lands adjacent have
not as yet been fully carried out, yet the city is now enjoying a beautiful
park, and a nuisance which threatened most serious results has, by its crea
tion, been abated.
The large expenditures made during the first four years of the city, the
chief of which have herein been alluded to, involved a rapid increase of the
funded debt, and the business depression, and the general shrinkage of
values which followed, precluded, for several years, the making of any public
improvements that were not actually indispensable. In fact, the heavy debt
and high taxes with which Somerville, as well as nearly every other city,
was burdened made it the chief duty of city governments to reduce the
debt and curtail expenses. The situation was bravely met, and for several
years the most rigid economy was practiced.
While Mayor Austin Belknap was in office, during the years 1876 and
1877, the trunk sewer for the southerly side of the city, which had been laid
in Beacon street, westerly to Kent street, was extended through Beacon
street, Somerville avenue, Mossland street and Elm street, to Davis square.
The public park on Broadway, which was laid out and nearly com
pleted under Mayor Furber, was finished in the year 1876, and on the seven
teenth of June it was formally opened to the public. At six o'clock in the
afternoon, the city council met at the park, and, after marching around iti
assembled, in convention, at a stand which had been erected under the large
elm tree in Broadway, near the park. Mayor Belknap spoke briefly in regard
to the conception and cost of the park, and introduced Alderman Jacob T.
Glines, chairman of the committee on highways, under whose direction
the park had been constructed. Alderman Glines delivered up the custody
of the park into the hands of the city council, and Mayor Belknap, after
receiving it from the construction committee, made an appropriate address
and placed the park in charge of the committee on public property. The
exercises were concluded with music and a salute of sixteen guns.
The law of 1875, regulating municipal indebtedness, took effect in 1876,
when the first contribution of 145,130 was made to the sinking fund.
The Honorable George A. Bruce filled the office of mayor during the
years 1878, 1879 and 1880. Attention had been called by Mayor Belknap,
and was again directed, by Mayor Bruce, to the unsightly, and in some cases,
unsafe condition of the highway bridges maintained by the Fitchburg and
the Boston and Lowell railroads over their tracks in our city. The bridge
at Washington street, on the Fitchburg road, and the one at Medford street,

Mark F. Burns.

William H. Hodgkins.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 153
on the Lowell, were specially objectionable ; the latter being at a marked
angle to the street. During Mayor Bruce's term both of these were re
placed by the railroad companies, in co-operation with the city, with wider
and substantial structures that added greatly to the public convenience
and to the good appearance of the streets. New bridges have since been
built over the Lowell road at Cross street. Walnut street. Central street,
Cedar street and Broadway.
The office of mayor of the city was filled by Hon. John A. Cummings
during the years 1881, 1882, 1883 and 1884. The work of grading and im
proving the city's land on Central Hill, which had been recommended by
several of his predecessors, was begun and continued during his administra
tion, and the battery standing on the brow of the hill, and mounting four
cannons used during the war of the rebellion, the erection of which Mayor
Cummings warmly recommended, was partially constructed in the year
1S84, and completed during the first year of the administration of Mayor
Burns. In the year 1884, the public library having outgrown its quarters in
the city hall, and the room it occupied being much needed for city offices,
a new building for its accommodation was begun on Central Hill, east of
and near the city hall. This building was finished and occupied in the
year 1885.

CHAPTER XIII.
History of the City Goverx.ment {Continued).
Administr.vtion of Mayor Burns. — The W.vter Supply. — Applicatio.m of the Sink
ing Fund. — Reduction of the Cn y Debt. — Introduci lox of the Police Signal
Sy.stem and Electric Street Lighting. — Construction of New Schoolhouses.
— Administr.vtion of Mayor Pope. — Introduction of a High W.JiTer Service.
— The Old Powder House. — The Somerville Hospttvl Org.vnized and Estab
lished. Mayor Cummings was succeeded by Hon. Mark F. Burns, who was
the city's chief magistrate for the four years beginning with the year 1885.
In his first year of office the first floor of the city hall was remodeled so as
to utilize the room vacated by the public library.
It had long been felt that the city's contract with the city of Boston for
the taking of Mystic Lake water should be modified in the interest of Som
erville, a.nd different city governments had endeavored to secure such mod
ification. Boston pumps the water from the lake into the reservoir on College
Hill, from which Chelsea and Everett, as well as Somerville, are supplied,
and thence delivers the water into Somerville's distribution pipes. The
rates are collected from our water takers by Boston, and are the same as
those charged to her own citizens. Under the old contract Boston paid into
the treasury of Somerville fifteen per cent of the rates so collected up to the

154 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
amount of j;2o,ooo, twenty per cent on the excess of $20,000 and up to
$30,000, twenty-five per cent on the excess of $30,000 and up to $40,000,
thirty per cent on the excess of $40,000 and up to 550,000, and forty per
cent on all over $50,000. July i, 1887, a new contract with Boston was
made under which Somerville receives from Boston fifty per cent of all col
lections. Somerville had faithfully observed the law passed in 1875, regulating
municipal indebtedness, and contributed, year by year, to a sinking fund to
be applied to the payment of the funded debt. This course imposed a large
tax rate and restricted permanent improvements, as all expenditures must,
until the net debt exclusive of the water debt was reduced to the limit of
two and one-half per cent of the assessed valuation, be met by taxation.
Mayor Burns, in his inaugural addresses of 1886 and 1887, recommended an
application to the legislature for a special act permitting the immediate ap
plication of the sinking funds to the reduction of the debt, and an extension
of the time within which the remainder of the debt might be paid. A law
granting these privileges was enacted in the year 1887, and on the 23d of
March, 1888, by the application of the sinking funds, which amounted to
$654,312.66, the debt was reduced from $1,525,000 to $870,687.36. Under the
new act this remaining debt must be paid within twenty years, and the op
tion was given the city of providing for its liquidation by means of a new
sinking fund or by paying, directly, a certain portion every year. By an or
dinance passed in February, i888, the city council established the latter
policy, which was to apply to the debt then outstanding and to any that might
thereafter be incurred. Under this ordinance, whenever a loan is negoti
ated the bonds are so written that a proportionate part will mature annually
up to the limit of time within which the whole must be paid.
Under Mayor Burns' administration the police signal system and elec
tric street lighting were introduced ; also the support of poor department
was reorganized, under special legislation, so that the overseers serve with
out compensation and have the services of an agent, who devotes his en
tire time to the business of the department, and a secretary.
During this period the policy was established of constructing four-room
schoolhouses, as well as larger ones, of brick, and one of the first of these
buildings, which was erected on Cherry street, was appropriately named
the Burns School. -\ hose house, erected on the old ledge lot on Somer
ville avenue at the corner of Lowell street, was also added to the buildings
of the fire department.
The Hon. Charles G. Pope served as mayor of the city during the
years 1889, 1890 and 1891. An important feature of his administration was
the introduction of a water service for the high lands of the city. A tank
thirty feet in diameter and one hundred feet high, estimated to hold about
five hundred and thirty thousand gallons, was erected on the top of Spring
Hill, and supplied with water by a pumping plant on the City Farm on Cedar
street at the corner of Broadway. By means of this system the very highest
lands in our city were made desirable for building purposes, as an abundance

Melville D. Jones.

L. Herbert Huntley.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 157
of water was assured, with an ample pressure for fire protection as well as
other purposes.
In the year 1890 the heirs of Nathan Tufts donated to the city, on cer
tain conditions, which were accepted by the city council, about 65,000 feet
of land, near Broadway and Elm street, with the Old Powder House, so-
called, standing thereon. Referring to the subject, Mayor Pope, in his in
augural address, delivered January 5, 1891, said : —
" Through the generosity of one of the families that have been identified
with the history of Somerville from the first, the city has recently come into
possession of the ' only ancient ruin ' within the Commonwealth. The story
of the Powder House, so far as known, has often been repeated. Erected
at some time between 1700 and 1720, as the records show, it was first used
as a grist-mill. The Province of Massachusetts bought it in 1747, and in the
deed given it is spoken of as the stone edifice formerly a windmill. It was
then remodeled for a powder magazine, and used as such by the Province
and Commonwealth until 1822. It was the scene of one of the early events
in the stirring days of the Revolution, as you all know."
By an act of the legislature approved May 7, 1891, the city council
was authorized to acquire additional land adjacent to the site of the Old
Powder House, for the purposes of a public park.
During Mayor Pope's term a considerable sum was expended in con
tinuing the construction of the Central Hill Park, and that portion between
the High Schoolhouse and the engine house was substantially finished. In
his second year of office memorial tablets were erected, marking points of
historic interest in our city, as stated at length in another portion of this
volume. The Somerville Hospital was founded during Mayor Pope's administra
tion. Miss Martha R. Hunt, a highly respected resident of Somerville, de
sirous of providing, within our borders, for the proper care of the sick and
injured, communicated her wishes to the mayor and agreed to give a gener
ous sum of money, if the citizens would contribute a like sum, for the pur
pose of establishing a hospital. Under Mayor Pope's direction, and largely
through his efforts, the requisite funds were secured and the corporation of
the Somerville Hospital was organized under the laws of the Commonwealth,
Mayor Pope being chosen president of the board of trustees. Land was
purchased on Crocker, Tower and Crown streets, and suitable buildings
erected, to which others may be added when required. The hospital was
opened in the year 1893, and is thus spoken of in the inaugural address de
livered by Mayor Hodgkins at the beginning of the following year : —
" Although this is a private and in no sense a public institution sup
ported by the city, it is one in which Somerville may well feel an honorable
pride. Its completion engaged the last labors of the Hon. Charles G. Pope,
my predecessor in the mayoralty, who departed this life on the 24th clay of
April last. He lived long enough to witness its completion, after long and
faithful labor in perfecting its organization. It was dedicated on May 17,
1893, and was immediately occupied. Though the need of such an institu
tion has long been recognized, yet such was not fully understood until the
hospital had demonstrated it by its humane and noble work. Having no
endowment or stated income, it relies for support principally upon the con-

158 SOMERJ-/LLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
tributions of our benevolent citizens. Owing to the fact that it receives and
maintains many who might otherwise be a charge upon the city, I trust the
citizens will not be heedless to its calls for financial aid.''

CHAPTER XIV.
History of the Cnv Govern.ment {Concluded).
.\dministration of Mayor Hodgkins. — Esta];lishment of the Nath.vn Tufts
Park. — Celebration of the Semi-Centennial .-Anniversary. — Paving I.mportant
Thoroughfvres. — Erection of the New High .School Building. — A New
City Hall Advocated. — Ereciion of a New Central Fire Station. — Great
Improvements .made in Various Direciions. — Administration of Mayor Perry.
— Changes at the Cjiy Hall. — I.mportant lMi'RO\-EMENrs in the Sewer System.
— High Credit of the City. — Functions < )F Different Boards of the City
Geat-.rnment. — Scope of City Charter.
Hon. William H. Hodokins filled the office of mayor of the city dur
ing the four years beginning in January, 1892.
In May, 1892, the city council voted to accept the gift of 68,357 feet of
land, including the site of the Powder House, tendered by the heirs of Nathan
Tufts in the year 1890, and to purchase in addition, under authority of
the act of 1891, hereinbefore referred to, 129,497 square feet at the junction
of Broadway and Elm street. The entire tract forms a square of between
four and five acres, with the Old Powder House standing on a rock}- emi
nence in its midst. The grounds were artistically laid out by the then city
engineer, the late Horace L. Eaton, and work thereon was prosecuted
throughout Maj^or Hodgkins' administration until the year 1895, when it
was finished, and a beautiful park on ground of great historic interest was
thrown open to the public. It is called the Nathan Tufts Park, as provided
in the deed of gift.
March 3, 1892, was the semi-centennial anniversary of the incorporation
of the town of Somerville. Because of the general inclemency of the
weather at that season the event was observed, and very successfully, on the
following 17th of June, by a parade composed of various military organiza
tions, old and distinguished citizens, with the city government and invited
guests, and an imposing representation of the trades and manufactures of
the city. The program also included a banquet, an oration, and fire
works ; and a large and most interesting collection of historic relics was ex
hibited in the High School. Mayor Hodgkins thus spoke of the occasion
in his next following inaugural address : —
"On the 17th of June last, in accordance with a plan devised by the
Citizens' Association, of which Hon. Charles S. Lincoln was chairman, the
fiftieth anniversarj' of the incorporation of Somerville was celebrated. The
occasion is of too recent occurrence to require much comment at this time.
I doubt if the event will ever be forgotten by those who participated in it.
It was a day in which intense and almost insufferable heat struggled for the

James M. Andrews.

JosiAH N. Pratt.

SOMERV/LLE, PAST .IND PRESENT. l6l
mastery, only to be overcome by tempest and storm. The gaily decorated
city was thronged with spectators, and hundreds of former citizens returned
to engage in the festivities of the day. The occasion was favored with the
presence of His Excellency Governor Russell and members of his staff,
members and ex-members of Congress, mayors of cities, and other men dis
tinguished in various walks of life. During the furious tempest in the after
noon, just at the close of the parade, many lives were in danger, but, provi
dentially, only a few persons were injured. The literary exercises intended
for the afternoon were held in the afternoon of the following day in an im
mense tent erected on Central Hill Park, where the largest audience ever
assembled in this city listened to an eloquent and admirable historical ad
dress delivered by Hon. George A. Bruce, ex-Mayor of Somerville."
The paving of Somerville avenue had been advocated by many citizens
for several years. Somerville had no paved streets, but the bad condition
of this avenue, notwithstanding frequent repairs, seemed to demonstrate that
it was not possible to maintain a good macadamized road under the heavy
teaming which passed over it. A special act of the legislature was obtained
authorizing a paving loan of one hundred thousand dollars, and that portion
of the avenue extending from Medford street to Park street, including the
whole of Union square, was paved with granite blocks, as was also ^^'ebster
avenue, from Union square to the Fitchburg railroad. Similar paving has
since been laid in Washington street, from Union square to Tufts street,
and in Medford street, from Somerville avenue to the Cambridge line.
The northerly line of Broadway had been straightened, in connection
with the laying out of the Broadway Park, but the southerly line, which, in
the vicinity of the park, described a long bow, remained unchanged. This
portion of the street, being of a width varying from one hundred to two
hundred feet, was unsightly, its great width was unnecessary, and the cost
of maintenance was large. In conjunction with the ^^'est End Street Rail
way Company, a parkway was constructed in the year 1892, in the middle
of the street, conforming, in width, substantially to the varying width of the
roadway, and the street railway tracks were laid through its centre. The
result is most pleasing, and the improvement is universally commended.
For many years the High School, an imposing structure erected in 1871,
the last year of the town government, had been badly crowded, so that the
lowest class was divided ; each division attending but three hours. The
building originally contained two large schoolrooms, calculated for about
ninety pupils each, with ample classrooms, laboratory, etc. The third story
consisted of a large public hall with suitable anterooms. In the course of
years the hall and ante-rooms had been converted into schoolrooms, addi
tional seats had been placed in the original schoolrooms, and all available
space had been utilized. The enlargement of the building had been con
sidered, but it was deemed best to erect an English high school and use
the old building for a classical or Latin school. The site selected was the
crown of Central Hill, between the old High School and the public library
building, and directly back of the Unitarian church.
With the exception of the church property, comprising some twenty
thousand square feet of land, the entire block bounded by Highland ave-

1 62 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
nue. School street, the Lowell railroad, and Medford and Walnut streets,
was owned by the city, and Mayor Hodgkins, in his inaugural address of
1893, recommended its purchase. The property was acquired the same year,
and the erection of the English High School was begun. The church was
allowed to stand until the spring of 1895, when a portion of the new church
edifice, which the society was erecting on Highland avenue at the corner of
Trull lane, became ready for occupancy. The inauguration of the city
government of 1895 was held in the old church, and the last use made of it
was the holding of a fair, in aid of the Somerville Hospital, in March, 1895.
.\fter the demolition of the building the grounds were graded and grassed,
and walks were laid to the schoolhouses and the public library building.
The English High School was opened in September, 1895.
The increase of public business, incident to the rapid growth of the city,
taxed to the utmost the capacity of the city hall. With the exception of the
space at the rear end of the building, vacated by the police court and the
public library, the room available for city business remained the same in
1895 as it was in 1872. In 1895 the clerk of committees, who had occupied
a room connected with the assessors' office, took possession of the mayor's
room, on the second floor, and various officers needing desk room only,
were accommodated in the rooms of the board of aldermen and the common
council. Mayor Hodgkins, in his inaugural addresses of 1893, 1894 and 1895,
called attention to the need of a new city hall, and recommended the pro
curing of plans and estimates of the cost. He also presented, as a plan
for the ultimate development of the Central Hill Park, the removal of the
Central Fire Station, at the corner of Walnut street, and the erection of a
much larger one, for which there was urgent need, on the Brastow School
lot on Medford street, leaving the end of the park near Walnut street avail
able as a site for a new city hall ; the erection of a soldiers' memorial build
ing as part of an enlargement of the public library building, extended west
erly, and the removal of the old City Hall and the reduction of the knoll on
which it stands so as to give a proper slope toward School street and High
land avenue.
A new central fire station was erected, in 1894, on the Brastow School
lot, as recommended by the mayor, but the old fire station has not been
removed. In the same year a fire station, for a ladder truck, was erected
on Highland avenue near Cedar street, and in 1895 a steam fire engine house
was erected on Broadway at the corner of Cross street.
A new city stable was erected on the City Farm on Broadway, in 1894,
and the old stable was given over to the board of health. With the facili
ties thus afforded, this board was enabled to abandon the contract system
of collecting ashes and offal, and to do this work by the day ; the necessary
outfit being purchased, and a superintendent employed to oversee the work.
The expense of the new system is greater, but the service is far better.
In 1895 the Wyatt Pit, so-called, situated in rear of Washington street,
in ward two, was acquired, under a special act of the legislature, to be used.

Howard D. Moore.

William H. Berry.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 165
ultimately, as a public park ; the act also authorizing the acquisition of
lands adjacent for the same purpose. This was an old clay pit, filled with
water, and, as it was unguarded by fences, was a source of danger ; several
drowning accidents having occurred there. For this reason, mainly, it was
taken by the city. It has been enclosed with a high board fence, and is
used, by the board of health, for an ash dump, for which purpose it was
also used before it became the property of the city.
Hon. Albion A. Perry became mayor of the city January 6, 1896. On
his recommendation, presented in his inaugural address, a temporary solu
tion of the city hall problem has been reached by the addition, at the rear
of the city hall, of a structure somewhat larger than the old building, and
the remodeling of the present offices on the first floor.
The city treasurer, assessors, city engineer and clerk of committees
will occupy the addition, and the city clerk, water board, city messenger,
inspector of buildings, etc., will have offices in the old part of the building.
The second floor of the old building, in which are the chambers of the
board of aldermen and the common council and the office of the mayor,
will not be changed, except by the opening of a doorway from the alder-
manic chamber into the rear hallway. The work is nearly completed, and it
is expected that the accommodations afforded will be sufficient for several
years to come.
The territory at the foot of the slope southwest of Holland street and
bordering on Cambridge has long been in need of drainage, but, being at
too low a level to drain into the Somerville sewers, its wants in that respect
have not been supplied. After considerable study by the engineers, and
much consultation, an arrangement has been made between the cities of
Cambridge and Somerville, under an act of the legislature of the year 1896,
for the construction of a sewer and also a large surface-water drain from the
metropolitan sewer in Cambridge, at Alewife Brook, through the valley of
Tannery Brook in Cambridge and Somerville to the vicinity of Davis square.
By this means not only will sewerage facilities be afforded the territory just
referred to, but substantial relief will be given the sewers around Davis
square, the capacity of which has for some time past been seriously overtaxed
during heavy rains. Work is now progressing on this sewer and drain, the
latter having its outlet into Alewife Brook, and the former into the Metro
politan sewer.
It is not intended in this paper to name all of the improvements made
by the city, but merely to mention the more important. Streets, sewers and
sidewalks have been laid out and constructed, from year to year, school-
houses have been erected, street railways extended, street lights provided,
the fire and police departments enlarged, and all the various facilities af
forded for the comfort and convenience of the public that are expected of a
modern city.
While the administrations of Mayors Belknap, Bruce, Cummings and
Burns were not marked by many notable public improvements, yet their
work is none the less commendable, as by a rigid economy and good man
agement they reduced a large debt nearly one-half, until it was brought

1 66 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
within the legal limit, and at the same time paid all expenses, including the
cost of new buildings, from the annual tax levy.
Thus the city enjoyed the best of credit during a period of financial
depression, and secured a borrowing capacity which, by the increase of tax
able property, has been continued, and has enabled later city governments
to make liberal provision for the increasing needs of the community.
The charter granted to Somerville, by the legislature, was of the kind
commonly granted to cities at the time. It adhered, as closely as possible,
to town methods ; the city council (consisting of the board of aldermen
and the common council) exercising the powers of the town, and the board
of aldermen those of the selectmen; the action of both being largely
governed by the general laws of the State. Thus all appropriations are
made, loans authorized, claims settled, public property purchased or sold,
and public buildings erected by order of the city council, which also enacts
all ordinances and has jurisdiction in the matters of the laying out, con
struction and repair of streets, the erection of street lights, and the care and
maintenance of all public property ; while the board of aldermen is charged,
among other things, with the construction and maintenance of sewers, the
laying of brick sidewalks and setting of edgestones, and the granting of
licenses of various kinds, and of locations for street railways and for lines
of electric wires.
The assessors and assistant assessors, city auditor, city clerk, city
physician, city solicitor, city treasurer, overseers of the poor, superin
tendent of streets and trustees of the public library, are elected by the
city council, as are also fence viewers, field drivers, measurers of wood
and bark, and pound keepers. All other officers, with the members of the
police and fire departments, are appointed by the mayor ; the appoint
ments, except of keeper of the lock-up and burial agents for the interment
of indigent soldiers and the wives and widows of the same, being subject to
confirmation by the board of aldermen. The members of the police and
fire departments hold their appointments until removed by the mayor and
aldermen. All public works, except the construction and maintenance of the water
works, are carried on by the city council or the board of aldermen, ac
cording as the one or the other may have jurisdiction, acting through com
mittees, which are assisted by superintendents and the city engineer.
There are five boards which are either appointed by the mayor and
aldermen or elected by the city council, that are entirely independent of
both, except as to the amount of their appropriations. These are the board
of assessors, the board of health, the board of overseers of the poor, the
board of registrars of voters, and the water board. The water board de
rives its authority from the city charter, and the duties of the other four
are defined by the general laws of the State. The assessors and assistant
assessors and the board of registrars of voters receive salaries fixed by
the city council, and are provided with all necessary clerical assistance.
The members of the other three boards serve without compensation. The
board of health has two agents, the board of overseers has an agent and

Leonard B. Chandler.

Residence of Robert S. Wright.
II Summit Ave.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 169
a secretary, and the water board has a superintendent and a clerk, all of
whom receive salaries.
The school committee is also an independent board, elected by the
people, and governed by State law. Its members serve without com
pensation and, with the assistance of a superintendent, who is also secretarjr
of the board, have the exclusive management of the schools ; the school
buildings being provided and maintained by the city council. The mayor
is, ex officio, chairman of the school committee, and the president of the
common council is also a member.
The powers and duties of the mayor, aside from making appointments
to and removals from office, subject to confirmation by the board of alder
men, consist, chiefly, in presiding at the meetings of that board and of the
school committee, serving as chairman of certain of the committees of the
city council and of the board of aldermen, drawing all warrants on the
treasurer for the payment of money, and signing bonds, notes and other
legal instruments, in behalf of the city. He has also been given, by general
legislation, the power of veto over all ordinances, joint orders and resolu
tions, and all orders of either branch of the city council authorizing an
expenditure of money ; a two-thirds vote being required to pass any such
paper over his veto. He is the chief executive officer of the city, and is re
quired by the charter to cause the laws and regulations of the city to be
enforced, and to keep a general supervision over all subordinate officers.
He may also call special meetings of the board of aldermen and the
common council whenever, in his opinion, the interest of the city ma}^
require it.
Those favoring the modern form of charter make the following points
in criticism of our own : —
I. All executive power, including the construction of public works, should
be vested in the mayor, to be exercised by him with the aid of competent
heads of departments ; or such construction should be entrusted to a board
of public works, a minority of whose members should be appointed annually,
for a term of several years. Under our system of having public work carried
on by the city council or board of aldermen, through committees, the
responsibility is so divided that it cannot be definitely fixed, and many times
authority is assumed by a committee that it does not possess, or by the
chairman of a committee that belongs to the committee as a whole ; a con
dition not favorable to the best economy.
2. The mayor should be relieved of all legislative duties, and of the
duty of presiding at board meetings, and given the power of veto over all
orders. 3 . All work upon and under the streets, as the laying of sewers and water
pipes, the maintenance of the highways, and the granting of permits to gas
and other companies or to individuals to open the streets, should be under
one head. One advantage of this arrangement would be the avoidance, in
many cases, of the opening of a street to do underground work shortly after
the paving or macadamizing of the surface.
4. In the line of definitely fixing responsibility many hold that one

I/O SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
board, reasonably large in numbers, is preferable to two ; a sufficient check
upon unwise legislation being secured by the veto power lodged with the
mayor. A commission has been appointed to consider what amendments, if
any, should be made to the charter, and to report to the city council.
Whatever may be the merits or demerits of the charter, the affairs of
the city have, on the whole, been well managed, and the people are under
lasting obligations to those, who have so ably and faithfully served her in
terests. The aldermen and councilmen receive no compensation, and the
salary of the mayor is much less than any incumbent of the office would
consider sufficient for equal service in his private business.
On the evening of inauguration day, January 2, 1882, a notable event
was commemorated. Charles E. Gilman had served the people as town and
city clerk since the organization of the first town government in 1842, and
was held in the highest esteem by the entire community.
The completion of his fortieth term of continuous service was cele
brated by a banquet in the hall of the police building on Bow street, at
which Mayor Cummings presided, and hundreds of citizens joined in the
feast, and in congratulating Mr. Gilman on the happy occasion. As a slight
token of personal regard he was made the recipient of a gold watch and
chain and a portrait of himself ; a similar portrait was also presented to.the
city and now hangs in the city clerk's office. Mr. Gilman continued in the
office of city clerk until his death, which occurred February 22, 1888,
leaving a most honorable record of forty-six years in the public service.
Somerville is a good example of the recognition and appreciation of
faithfulness and merit in public servants. During the twenty-five years
which have passed since she became a city she has had but two city clerks,
two city treasurers, three city solicitors, three superintendents of schools,
one chief of police, one chief engineer of the fire department and one city
messenger. She has also retained her chief magistrates in office as long as
they were willing to serve, there having been but nine incumbents of the
office of mayor up to the present time.
The government and public service of a city reflect the character and
intelligence of her people. Somerville is a sober, industrious, law-abiding
community, with comparatively little pauperism or crime. The sale of intox
icating liquor, as a beverage, has been prohibited ever since the question
was first submitted for decision at the annual city elections, which fact has
doubtless influenced many in selecting this as a home. Few of our citizens
are wealthy, but nearly all are comfortably circumstanced, and take an
active interest in public affairs, especially in maintaining the high standard
of our schools, and in all matters that contribute to the culture and com
fort of their families.
In contemplating our city's history of a quarter of a century, we have
reason to be grateful to the Divine Ruler for the wisdom and integrity
which adorn its pages, and to thank Him for the many blessings which He
has bestowed upon us, not only as individuals, but as a community of
neighbors and friends.

Marcus M. Raymond.

John N. Ball.

SOMERVILLE, P.iST AND PRESENT. 173
City Government and Officers for 1896.
Mayor, Albion A. Perry.
Board of Aldermen. — Ward One : L. Herbert Huntley, Josiah N. Pratt.
Ward Two : Melville D. Jones, President ; Robert S. Wright. Ward Three :
Leonard B. Chandler, James M. Andrews. Ward Four • William H. Berry,
Howard D. Moore. Clerk, George I. Vincent.
Common Council. — ^\'ard One: Frank DeWitt Lapham, P'rank B.
Burrows, John Hunnewell, L. Edgar Timson. Ward Two : George E.
Whitaker, President; William M. Irving, Richard .\. Russell, French O. J.
Tarbox. \A'ard Three : Andrew A. Lament, Arthur W. Berry, Howard
Lowell, Marcus M. Raymond. Ward Four : John N. Ball, Fred M. Carr,
Silas L. Cummings, Albert L. Reed. Clerk, Charles S. Robertson.
Assessors. — (Term, three years.) Benjamin F. Thompson, Chairman
(term expires 1896), Samuel T. Richards (term expires 1898), Nathan H.
Reed (term expires 1897) ; Clerk of Assessors, Albert B. Eales.
Board of Health. — (Term, three years.) Allen F. Carpenter, Chair
man (term expires 1897), Alvah B. Dearborn, M. D. (term expires 1898),
.\lvano T. Nickerson, Chairman (term expires 1899) ; Clerk, William P.
Mitchell ; Inspector, Caleb A. Page ; Superintendent Collection of Ashes
and Offal, George \\ . S. Huse.
Overseers of the Poor. — (Office, Police Building, Bow street.) Albion
A. Perry, Mayor, Chairman, ex officio (term, four years). Edward B. West,
President (term expires 1899), Albert W. Edmands (term expires 1897),
Herbert E. Merrill (term expires 1S98), Ezra D. Souther (term expires
1S96) ; Agent, Charles C. Folsom ; Secretarj-, Cora F. Lewis.
Registrars of Voters. — (Term : City Clerk, one year ; other members,
three years.) Cromwell G. Rowell, Chairman (term expires 1897), Charles
P. Lincoln (term expires 1898), Charles E. Parks (term expires 1899), George
I. Vincent, City Clerk.
City Clerk and Clerk of Board of Aldermen, George I. Vincent.
City Treasurer and Collector of Taxes, John F. Cole.
Messenger to City Council, Jairus Mann.
City Solicitor, Selwyn Z. Bowman.
City Auditor, Charles S. Robertson.
City Engineer, Ernest W. Bailey.
Consulting Engineer, George A. Kimball.
Superintendent of Streets, John P. Prichard.
Inspector and Superintendent of Public Buildings, Frederick C. Fuller.
Chief of Police, Melville C. Parkhurst.
Chief Engineer of the Fire Department, James R. Hopkins.
Superintendent of Electric Lines and Lights, Leighton W. Manning.
City Physician, Alvah B. Dearborn, M. D.
Inspector of Milk and ^'inegar, Charles S. Philbrick.
Inspector of Animals and Provisions, Charles M. Berry.
Sealer of Weights and Measures, Luther B. Pillsbury.
Clerk of Committees, \^'illiam P. Mitchell.

F. O. J. Tarbox.

Ernest W. Bailey.

.n'\?v

Allen F. Carpenter.

HISTORY OF THE SCHOOLS.

CHAPTER XV.

From 1842 to the cl(jse of the Superintendency of Joshua H.
Davis, 1S88.*
The citizens of Somerville have always manifested their high ap
preciation of education by their generous support of the public schools.
The ever increasing demands for their maintenance and for the construc
tion of school buildings have been cheerfully met. School officers and
teachers have received the hearty support of the entire community. Suc
cessive school boards have labored with vigilance and fidelity to maintain
a high standard of excellence and to adapt the schools to the ever varying
requirements of the community. They have equally avoided excessive
conservatism and extreme radicalism. They have adopted new methods
and measures only when their superiority was apparent. In their efforts to
promote intellectual culture, they have not been unmindful of the more
important duty of inculcating principles of morality and virtue, and of la}'-
ing the foundation of worthy character.
Under such conditions, by such guidance and supervision, the public
schools of Somerville have uniformly maintained a position in the front
ranks of the best in the Commonwealth.
At the time when Somerville became a separate municipality, a new
and interesting era in educational affairs had been inaugurated. In the
year 1837, Horace Mann was appointed secretary of the newly organized
Board of Education. His indomitable energy and boundless enthusiasm
aroused an interest in education throughout the State never before realized.
During his term of twelve years in office, he completely revolutionized our
public school system.
When the State Board of Education was organized, there was but one
institution designed especially to prepare teachers for their work, but one
publication to disseminate information upon educational subjects ; there
were no teachers' conventions, and very few books that furnished practical
information to teachers. School architecture was of a rude type.
During his first year in office, Mr. Mann visited eight hundred school-
* To the former Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Joshua H. Davis, the editors of this
volume are under great obligations for a valuable paper containing the material from which
this chapter, and portions of the succeeding chapters of the History of Somerville's Schools
have been prepared. Many other valuable facts and observations in the manuscript fur
nished by Mr. Davis have been necessarily omitted for want of space. 177

178 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
houses in the State. As a result of his observations, he made the following
statement : " Not one-third of the public schoolhouses in Massachusetts
would be considered tenantable by any decent family out of the poorhouse
or in it. I have seen many schoolhouses in central districts of rich and
populous towns, where each seat connected with a desk consisted only of
an upright post or pedestal, without side-arms or back-board ; and some of
them so high that the feet of the children sought after the floor in vain."
The commodious school buildings, comfortable furnishings and excellent
schools to be found in every town, at the present day, are in striking con
trast with those which passed under the observation of the eminent sec
retary. After examining the schools of every county in the State, Mr. Mann
commented upon their condition as follows : " There are about three thou
sand public schools in this Commonwealth, in all of which the rudiments
of knowledge are taught. These schools at the present time are so many
distinct, independent communities, each being governed by its own habits,
traditions and local customs. There is no common superintending power
over them. There is no bond of brotherhood or family between them.
They are strangers and aliens to each other.''
Persons in middle life will recall the poorly constructed schoolhouses
of those days : the pine benches, unpainted, often notched by boys' jack-
knives, rising in tiers from the front to the rear of the room, the seats of the
same material and of sufficient length to accommodate several pupils ; the
frame of blackened boards, splintery and with here and there a knot-hole :
the angular pieces of chalk that would sometimes leave a mark, but oftener
a scratch ; the odds and ends of text-books, which not infrequently were in
use for a whole generation. A large stove, or in many cases, an enormous
fire-place furnished warmth in excess to those who sat near, while those in
the farther portions of the room sat shivering from the winds that found in
gress through the weather-beaten walls. Globes, outline maps, charts, and
crayons were almost unknown to the schools of sixty years ago.
Great as has been the advance in buildings and equipments still more
marked have been the changes in methods of teaching.
The introduction of the kindergarten has diffused an influence, that has
been felt in every grade below the high school; the "laboratory method,"
so called, or learning by doing, has been no less potential, reaching down
ward from the college and the high school, improving the work of the
lower grades. The present secretary of the State Board of Education is
authority for the statement that, "the best Massachusetts high schools to
day are far ahead of the colleges of fifty years ago, or even thirty years ago,
in the character of the science work clone, or of that at least which they
seek to have done."
In the opinion of many, still greater changes are impending. G. Stan
ley Hall in a recent lecture said : " Every day we have signs of awakened
interest, and cultivated people everywhere are coming to realize that there
is only one great cause, the cause of education."

Joshua H. Davis.

Gordon a. Southworth.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. l8l
At the present time there are nine State normal schools, and various
other institutions of learning, with courses of study for the special prepara
tion of teachers. From these preparatory institutions are graduated yearly
hundreds of persons with qualifications of a high order. Teachers' insti
tutes, lectures, conventions, educational publications, discussions, practical
works on the science of education and the art of teaching, all contribute to
the development of the highest ability and professional enthusiasm among
teachers. Men of great natural abilities are attracted to the work of teach
ing, and the problems of education are carefully studied by the greatest
men of the age.
Great as has been the improvement in the character of the buildings,
equipments and methods of teaching over those of half a century ago, still
greater has been the advance in popular sentiment with regard to their im
portance. The common school of early days was only the germ from which our
present enlarged and perfected system of public education has been devel
oped. " Fortunately the system possesses the flexibility necessary to adapt
it to the wants of different periods of time, and different communities, with
their ever varying necessities." School Buildings.*
The Upper Winter Hill Schoolhouse, located on Central street, near
Broadway, was moved to the present site of the Prescott school, East
Somerville, in the year 1855. In 1856 it was removed to Prospect street,
where it was known as the Union schoolhouse.
The Prospect Hill Schoolhouse contained two rooms, and was situated on
Medford street, near the end of Cross street. It was used for school pur
poses until the completion of the Brastow in 1861. The building is now
located at the corner of Somerville avenue and Prospect street, and is
used by the Somerville water board.
The Milk Street Schoolhouse, located on Somerville avenue, near the
Cemetery, was burned in 1849.
The Lower Winter Hill Schoolhouse, at the corner of Broadway and
Franklin street, was occupied by primary schools until 1846, and, on the
completion of the first Prescott schoolhouse in that year, was sold and re
moved. In one of their early reports, the school committee facetiously styled
these buildings "the dowry of the good old dame to her first and only off
spring." In addition to the schools above mentioned, one was kept in a private
dwelling in the Russell district until the completion of the Walnut Hill
Schoolhouse in 1843, when the name was changed to the " Walnut Hill dis
trict." The average attendance in all these schools for the year 1842 was two
hundred and twenty-six pupils. In 1843-44, the master of the Prospect Hill
* For an account of the earliest school buildings, see Chapter VIII.

1 82 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
grammar school, Mr. William E. Graves, was paid a salary of #600.
Master Charles Warren, of the Lower Winter Hill school, received $30
per month ; the female teachers $210 per annum.
The Walnut Hill school was taught by a male in winter and by a
female in summer. This arrangement was discontinued in 1853. In 1854,
Miss Susanna C. Russell was appointed teacher and continued in that
position till the spring of 1867. Under her instruction, pupils passed
through all primary and grammar grades, and were fitted for the high school.
In 1867, when the Lincoln school was established, this school was discon
tinued. Schoolhouses Constructed Since 1842.
The Walnut Hill Schoolhouse (already mentioned) was built in 1843,
on Broadway, near the foot of Walnut Hill. In 1868 it was moved to Cedar
street, named the " Cedar Street Schoolhouse," and was duplicated in
1873- The Lower Winter Hill Schoolhouse, built in 1843 at the corner of
Broadway and Franklin street, was removed to Beacon street in 1848, and
named the Harvard Primary. It was enlarged in 1861, and was burned in
1871. The Prescott Schoolhouse, No. i , located at the corner of Broadway and
Franklin street, was built in 1846, and was burned in 1856. It contained
two schoolrooms. The Franklin Schoolhouse, on Somerville avenue, near the end of Spring
street, was built in 1846. It contained two rooms, and was duplicated in
1862. The Prospect Hill Schoolhouse, on Washington, opposite Prospect street,
was erected in 1848, with four rooms. The two front rooms were added in
1865. The Spring Hill Primary Schoolhouse, built in 1850, is located in the
rear of the Beech street schoolhouse.
The Bell Primary was built on Cherry street, near Elm street, in 1857.
In 1867 it was moved to the rear of the Franklin schoolhouse. In 1871 it
was placed on the site of the Harvard schoolhouse, and took the name of
that building. In consequence of these changes and " to perpetuate the
memory of Dr. Luther V. Bell, a citizen so eminent in his profession, and
so strong in attachment to the interests of the schools," the school board
adopted the following resolution : —
" Resolved, That this board recommend that the name ' Bell ' be given
to the next large school building erected in Somerville."
High Schoolhouse, No. i . The building now used as the city hall, was
dedicated April 29, 1852. For fifteen years the high school occupied the
upper story, the lower being used for town purposes. From 1867 to Feb
ruary 27, 1872, when the building was vacated, the entire edifice was occu
pied by the school.
The Forster Schoolhouse, No. i, built in 1854-5, on Sycamore street,
near the site of the present building, contained four schoolrooms. It was
burned February 18, 1866.

Thomas S. Wentworth.

Martin W. Carr.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 85
The Prescott Schoolhouse, No. 2, containing seven rooms, was built of
brick on the spot where the school is now located, and was burned Decem
ber 31, 1866. It was rebuilt with twelve rooms in 1867.
The Brastow Schoolhouse, on Medford street, opposite the end of High
land avenue, was built in 1861, containing two schoolrooms. The site is
now occupied by the Central Fire Station.
The Jackson Schoolhouse, at the corner of Poplar and Maple streets, was
built in 1 861, and has four schoolrooms.
The Lincoln Schoolhouse, No. 1, was built on Elm street, in 1866. It
contained four rooms, was moved to Clarendon Hill, in 1881, and was
burned October 22, 1884. It was rebuilt in 1885.
The Forster Schoolhouse, No. 2, Sycamore street, was built in 1867, with
eight schoolrooms and an exhibition hall ; two additional rooms were con
structed in the hall in 1881, and, in 1883, the remaining portion of the hall
was divided into two schoolrooms.
The Prescott Schoolhouse, No. 3, Pearl street, was built in 1867, with ten
schoolrooms and a hall. In 1873, the hall was divided into two school
rooms. The Bennett Schoolhouse, corner of Joy and Poplar streets, was built in
1 868, and has four schoolrooms.
The Webster Schoolhouse, on Webster avenue, was built in 1868, and
contained four schoolrooms.
The Morse Schoolhouse, at the corner of Craigie and Summer streets,
was built in 1869, containing four rooms and a hall. In 1880, the hall was
divided into two schoolrooms. In 1889, an addition of six rooms was
made. High Schoolhouse, No. 2, located on Central Hill, was constructed in
1871, and formally dedicated, February 27, 1872. A chemical laboratory
and a philosophical room were arranged in the basement. A schoolroom
fifty-two feet square, and two recitation rooms, twenty-six feet by twenty-two
feet, occupied the first story, and the second was divided in the same man
ner. The third story contained a large hall and three anterooms.
In December, 1883, two schoolrooms were constructed in the third
story, leaving a hall sixty-three by sixty-four feet, which, in 1 888, was divided
into two schoolrooms.
The Edgerly Schoolhouse, on Cross street, was built in 1871, containing
four schoolrooms, to which four were added in 1882, and four others in
1892. The Beech Street Schoolhouse, originally a chapel, was purchased of the
Spring Hill Baptist Society in 1872, and contains two schoolrooms.
The Luther V. Bell Schoolhouse, on Vinal avenue, was completed in
1874, and contains twelve schoolrooms.
The Highland Schoolhouse, corner of Highland avenue and Grove street,
was built in 1880, with eight rooms, and, in 1890, was raised one story, thus
making an addition of four rooms.
The Cwnmings Schoolhouse, on School street, built in 1884, has four
schoolrooms.

1 86 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
The Davis Schoolhouse, on Tufts street, was built in 1884, and contains
four rooms.
The Lincoln Schoolhouse, No. 2, on Broadway, Clarendon Hill, built in
1885, contains four schoolrooms.
The Burns Schoolhouse, Cherry street, near Summer street, was built
in 1886, with four schoolrooms.
The Bingham Schoolhouse, Lowell street, built in 1886, contains four
rooms. The Knapp Schoolhouse, Concord square, was built in 1889, with eight
schoolrooms, to which four were added in 1894.
The Charles G. Pope Schoolhouse, corner of Washington and Boston
streets, was built in 1891, with twelve schoolrooms.
The Jacob T. Glines Schoolhouse, Jaques street, was built in 1891, with
eight schoolrooms, to which five were added in 1896.
The George W. Durell Schoolhouse, located on Beacon street, was built
in 1894, and contains four schoolrooms.
The English High Schoolhouse, on Central Hill, was built in 1895. It
contains fourteen classrooms, a chemical, a physical, a biological laboratory,
three recitation rooms, a lecture hall, drawing room, two teachers' rooms,
library, and principal's office, besides four manual-training rooms in the
basement. The William H. Hodgkins Schoolhouse, on Holland street, containing
twelve rooms, was completed in 1896.
" From the foregoing it appears that on her natal day, Somerville had
four school buildings containing in all five rooms ; " that, prior to the close
of 1889, "thirty school buildings containing one hundred and sixty-nine
schoolrooms had been constructed, and one building of two rooms had
been purchased. Six of these, containing nineteen rooms, had been burned."
Two buildings, containing three rooms, had been applied to other uses, and
one had been sold.
By the table on page 79 of Superintendent Southworth's Report for
1895, it appears that at that time the twelve-room buildings were the Pres
cott, Edgerly, L. V. Bell, C. G. Pope, Forster, Morse and Highland. The
.0. S. Knapp has thirteen ; the J. T. Glines nine (to which five have since
been added). The Bingham has eight, and the Prospect Hill six rooms.
The four-room buildings were the Davis, Bennett, Jackson, Cummings,
Franklin, G. W. Durell, Burns, and Lincoln. The Beech street and Cedar
street schoolhouses contain two rooms each, and the Harvard has one
room. The buildings that can fairly claim the greatest antiquity are the
Cedar street, which has been in use for a period of fifty-three years ; the
Franklin, fifty, the Prospect Hill, forty-eight, and the Harvard, forty-five
years.
Primary Schools.
" For a series of years, about forty-four per cent of the pupils registered
in all the schools have been in this department.
"Previous to 1857, pupils were admitted to these schools at the age of
four years, and were retained in them four years.

Quincy E. Dickerman.

S. Newton Cutler.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 189
" Since that time the age of admission has been five years, and the
work has been completed in three years." " Early in our history children
were subjected to great discomfort from lack of desks and other needed
appliances. The irksome alphabet method of teaching reading was univer
sally practiced. There was no slate work, and no instruction in writing and
drawing. Little was done to relieve the tedium and enliven the school life
of the children by furnishing them congenial employment ; and the teacher's
energies were directed chiefly to the maintenance of order and the repres
sion of the activities of their pupils."
During the last sixty years all this has been changed. Convenient and
comfortable furniture, more rational methods of instruction and study have
made school life more attractive as well as vastly more profitable. At the
present time much more is accomplished in a given period, and with less
expenditure of vital force. Grammar Schools.
"At their first meeting, March 21, 1842, the school committee took
measures for the immediate establishment of a permanent grammar school."
The Prospect Hill Grammar School was established in April, 1842. Mr.
William E. Graves, principal. In June, 1874, the name was changed to the
" Luther V. Bell School."
The Lower Winter Hill Grammar School was organized in April, 1844,
with George Swan as principal; salary $360. In January, 1847, the name
was changed to the " Prescott School."
The Franklin Grammar School was organized in November, 1846, Wil
liam E. Graves, principal. In March, 1870, the name was changed to the
" Morse School." The vacancy caused by the transfer of Mr. Graves was
filled by the choice of Martin Draper, Jr.
The Forster Grammar School was established in February, 1855, John
Jameson, principal ; salary $700.
The Lincoln Grammar School wa.s established in January, 1867, Horace
P. Makechnie, principal; salary )f 1,000. The name was changed to the
" Highland School " in September, 1881.
The Charles G. Pope Grammar School was organized in October, 1891,
George M. Wadsworth, principal ; salary J 1,600.
The Edgerly Grammar School was organized in September, 1888,
Edgar L. Raub, principal.
The O. S. Knapp Grammar School was organized in April, 1890, Harry
N. Andrews, principal.
" During the first ten years of our history all pupils in the grammar
schools were under the instruction of the grammar masters. In 1853, an
intermediate, or sub-grammar grade, embracing the three lower classes of
the grammar schools, was established and placed in charge of female
teachers. This arrangement was continued until 1872, when the present
mode of classification was adopted as follows : primary, containing three
classes ; grammar, six classes ; high, four classes."
The following are the names of the principals of grammar schools in
Somerville, not elsewhere mentioned, and the year of their appointment : —

190 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Robert Bickford, 1851 ; McLauren F. Cook, 1852; H. O. Whittemore,
1853 ; Daniel B. Wheeler, 1854; John Wilson, 1859; George R. Bradford,
1864: Samuel C. Hunt, 1866; John D. Marston, 1868; WiUiam B. Allen,
1869: Augustus Linfield, 1872; L. B. Pillsbury, 1872; Samuel C. Higgins,
1876; Charles C. Hunkins, 1877.
Two eminent teachers, not elsewhere mentioned, were George Swan
and George T. Littlefield, both of whom left Somerville to accept prominent
positions in Boston. Edward W. Howe, one of our grammar masters, was
afterwards principal of the Jamaica Plain High School, and John Jameson,
of the Boylston School, Boston.
The names of masters and principals serving at the present time will
be found in another chapter on the schools.
Evening Schools.
By a statute of 1883, every town and city in this Commonwealth, hav
ing ten thousand or more inhabitants, is required to maintain " evening
schools for the instruction of persons over twelve years of age, in orthogra
phy, reading, writing, geography, arithmetic, drawing, the history of the
United States, and good behavior.''
In 1875 (December 6), an evening school was opened in the hall, corner
of Washington and Prospect streets. It contained one hundred and fifty
pupils of both sexes, from fourteen to thirty years of age. Other evening
schools were held for several winters in the Luther V. Bell, Webster and
Cedar street schoolhouses.
Evening grammar schools were established in different sections of the
city in 1885.
They have been in charge of the grammar masters, and have been sup
plied with all the conveniences and appliances of the day schools.
Drawing.
This branch of education was introduced into the high school in 1853,
and made one of the regular exercises of the school. From 1853 to 1857
(inclusive), Mr. Wm. N. Bartholomew was an instructor in this department.
The Legislature of 1870 enacted that drawing should be added to the
required branches of learning to be taught in the public schools, and that
towns and cities of more than ten thousand inhabitants furnish free instruc
tion in industrial or mechanical drawing to persons over fifteen years of
age, in day or evening schools, under the direction of the school com
mittees. Both these requirements were promptly met. In January, 1872, a school
was organized under the direction of Prof. Lucas Baker, who also had charge
of the school in the winter of 1873-4. Prof. Baker was employed, also, to
give instruction to teachers of grammar and primary schools on Saturdays,
during part of 1873-4. In 1885, Mr. Charles M. Carter, agent of the State
Board of Education, performed a similar work. While the regular teachers
were becoming qualified in this branch, the schools were taught by special

Citizens for whom Somerville Schools are named.

Citizens for whom Somerville Schools are named.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 193
instructors. In their report of 1877, the committee say that " all teachers
employed by the city are expected to teach drawing with the same degree
of skill and success that they do penmanship, or any other branch of in
struction." In 1885, evening drawing schools were resumed, and have been contin
ued without interruption.
In 1888 and 1889 a special teacher of drawing was employed to give in
struction in all the schools. Music.
In September, 1859, Mr. S. D. Hadley was employed to teach vocal
music in the grammar schools. The committee, in i860, commend his work,
and in 1861 they say, "His services have done much to improve as well
as to elevate the tone of the schools."
In September, 1868, Mr. S. H. O. Hadley was appointed teacher of
music in the high school, and in September, 1870, he succeeded Mr. S. 13.
Hadley in the grammar schools. A new impulse was given to the study of
music the same year by the introduction of Mason's charts. In their report
of 1887, the committee say: " In all the grades one hour a week is devoted
to the study and practice of music, which has been a regular branch of in
struction in our schools for nearly thirty years. For the last twenty years
it has been under the direction of Mr. S. H. O. Hadley." ..." Mr. Hadley,
by his enthusiasm and rare ability and skill as a teacher, has ever sustained
a commendable interest in this important branch of instruction." In the
high school, the practice of singing by note is discontinued, and pupils sing
at sight the music contained in the Fifth or High School Music Reader,
which contains compositions of a high order from the best masters.
Sewing.
" In the early part of this century instruction in this branch was given
to girls in the public schools quite generally. This practice has been re
vived." In September, 1888, two sewing teachers were appointed to instruct
the girls of the grammar schools. The results are highly satisfactory.
Free Text-Books and Supplies.
Since the opening of the schools in September, 1884, agreeably to a law
enacted that year, all pupils have been supplied with the text-books and
materials needed in their school work free of expense to them.
The total cost to the city during the first four years that the law was in
force for these supplies was $27,519.63, of which $16,456.00 was for text
books. Vacations and Holidays.
Forty- eight weeks constituted the school year until 1847, when it was
reduced by one week, and Christmas was added to the six holidays which
had been previously granted.
In 1850, the vacations and holidays were : one week, commencing with
the first Monday in March ; one week, commencing with the first Monday

194 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
in June ; three weeks, commencing with the second Monday in August ;
Thanksgiving Day, with the remainder of the week ; the afternoons of Wed
nesday and Saturday ; New Year's ; Fast Day • the ist of May ; the 17th of
June; Fourth of July ; Christmas.
In 1857, the twenty-second of February was added to the holidays. In
1863, the Saturday sessions in the high school were discontinued. In 1868,
the week preceding the first Monday in March was made a vacation, and
the summer vacation was made " seven weeks preceding the first Monday in
September." Christmas week also became a vacation.
In 1872, the school year was reduced to forty weeks, and the afternoon
sessions to two and one-half hours. In 1875, the afternoon sessions were
reduced to two hours, and the recess was discontinued. In 1884, a session
of two hours Wednesday afternoon was substituted for the session of three
hours Saturday forenoon.
In 1886, vacations and holidays were granted as follows : " Every Sat
urday ; from noon of the day preceding Thanksgiving until the Monday fol
lowing ; from December 24 at noon to the day after that celebrated as New
Year's Day ; the 22d of February ; the week immediately preceding the first
Monday in March ; Fast Day ; one week, commencing on the Monday pre
ceding the first Wednesday in May ; Memorial Day ; the 17th of June ; the
weeks between the close of the school year and the first Monday in Sep
tember."

CHAPTER XVI.
History of the Schools {Continued).*
Superintendency of Clarence E. Meleney.
The committee on annual report for the year 1888, Mr. James F.
Beard, chairman, use the following language concerning Superintendent
Davis. " By the resignation of Mr. Joshua H. Davis, the city has lost the
valued services of a superintendent whose long employment in the interest
of her schools had made him intimate with the wants and conditions of
every department of the work and section of the city. . . The general satis
factory condition of the schools, as he left them, show him to have been
well abreast of the times in all educational lines of thought and practice.
We take pleasure in paying tribute to his efficient and progressive adminis
tration. His genial and courteous manner will ever be remembered by his
associates in the school work of the city. In him the scholars had a warm
friend, and the example of a consistent Christian gentleman. With his
farewell report we appropriately close the first volume of our school history
as a city."
* The editors are indebted to Superintendent Southworth for school reports and valu
able information from which this and the succeeding chapters have been mainly derived.

Sanford Hanscom, M. D.

William P. Hill.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 1 97
The same committee says : " All the departments of our growing city
are in the midst of important changes. The spirit of the age that demands
such improvements as the electric light, the police signal system ... is
equally exacting in the line of school work.'' ..." The old is constantly
called upon to give way for the new." ..." Although it is the policy of the
board to try no experiments . . . yet some changes are being gradually made
that the experience of other municipalities, similarly situated, have proved
to be useful and desirable."
" At the February meeting, the board unanimously elected, as the suc
cessor of Superintendent Davis, Mr. Clarence E. Meleney, of Paterson,
N. J." . . " He comes to us as a man in the forefront of educational prog
ress." The administration of Mr. Meleney opened under favorable
auspices. No one realized the importance of the work before him more
than he, but he entered upon it with courage and enthusiasm, and by his
judicious management secured the co-operation of teachers, committees, and
the community. The same committee, above referred to, says : " Additional
schoolroom accommodations is a subject that requires more or less space in
every school report."
With wise forecast they declare : " Nothing proves so attractive to the
class of citizens we would invite to become residents of our city as good
schools in commodious buildings."
In the first report submitted the school board. Superintendent Meleney
emphasized the advantages of larger buildings with a view to economy and
effectiveness, and urged for the high school " increased facilities for labora
tory methods." He advised the "consideration of some plan by which
greater inducement could be offered to our own teachers and to those whom
it may be advisable to secure to fill vacancies."
He recommended that only candidates " eminently fitted for the ser
vice " be considered in filling vacancies in the corps of teachers. He says :
" Some portion of the kindergarten material, much of the kindergarten
method, and a complete infusion of the kindergarten spirit should charac
terize the elementary school." He advised that less time be devoted to
arithmetic ; that a " slight change " in the course in geography be made, to
render it " a science study, and not so much memory work." Additions
were made to the list of supplementary reading books, which were divided
into three classes, — elementary science, history and biography, literature.
In general language he says : " Our school system should begin with
the kindergarten and end with the manual training school and the high
school, and the intervening grades should represent the steps upon which
the pupils ascend from the one to the other. In adopting such a system,
we would be following the lead of the most progressive cities in our own
State and in others."
Among the new teachers added this year (1888) were Miss L. .\. Her-
rick, teacher of drawing ; Mrs. C. M. Coffin, and Miss Mary L. Boyd, of
sewing. On February 25, the board voted that sewing be continued in the

198 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
grammar schools as during the past year ; that a room be fitted up for
wood-work for boys of the high school and some grammar grades, and that
the sum of #2,000, to be expended for manual training, be included in
the estimates for the fiscal year.
Under the head of " School Accommodations," Mr. Meleney says : " We
are beginning to realize, as never before, that Somerville is a city in every
sense of the word. The situation, unsurpassed for its availability, its pros
pect, and its sanitary and healthy conditions, the administration of its
affairs, its reputation for temperance and morality, and its advantages for
the education of our children, have attracted, in large numbers, people
seeking new homes."
" It becomes a wise people to so administer affairs as to meet the con
ditions incident to rapid and permanent growth." ..." In planning for
the erection of new school buildings, the needs of the whole city should be
taken into account. . . . Such a scheme might be laid out as would settle
the whole question of schoolhouses for many years to come, and each year's
work would simply be a part of the general plan. ... In establishing the
proposed general plan, it will be necessary to decide upon new centres and
to consolidate the isolated schools." He declared that fifteen or sixteen
different buildings would be preferable to the twenty-eight then in use.
" The establishment of an English high school," he said, " seems to be
only a matter of time."
In regard to the grammar and primary schools, he states that "the
rooms are too large " ; that instead of seats for fifty-six pupils, " there should
not be over forty-two."
Timely suggestions are made in reference to " Manual Work for Boys,"
" Sloyd," " Kindergarten," " Training of Teachers," and " Physical Cul
ture." To introduce a system in the last named subject, he recommends that
" an expert " be employed as early as possible to prepare the teachers in
all grades to give the needed instruction to their classes and supervise the
work. This somewhat full account of the administration of the schools for
1888 and 1889, and the rather copious quotations from Mr. Meleney's report
for that year, exhibit the spirit and tendency of leaders in educational
thought in Somerville at that time, and equally the general trend of public
sentiment along certain lines of advancement, toward the introduction of
new subjects and new methods of instruction into the public schools in
New England and elsewhere.
In 1890, a course in mechanical drawing and construction for boys in
grammar schools was adopted by the board, and introduced in September
in all the various schools.
An exhibition of work in sewing and drawing was shown in Bow street
hall, which the superintendent declares "attracted much attention and re
flected great credit upon the teachers."
The committee on drawing and penmanship reported that there had

Fred. C. Baldwin.

Frederick W. Shattuck.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 20I
been " marked improvement " in the drawing " since the appointment of a
special instructor." On March 31, the superintendent was authorized to
engage Miss C. I. Livingstone as director of physical training.
Mr. Horatio D. Newton resigned his office as principal of the Morse
school, to accept a position in Boston, and Miss Mina J. Wendell was pro
moted to the head of the school. Mr. Herbert L. Morse, having been elect
ed to a Boston school, was succeeded by Mr. Fred W. Shattuck. Mr. Harry
N. Andrews was elected to take charge of the O. S. Knapp school. Pre
liminary outlines for teaching elementary science were prepared by the
superintendent, to aid in making a beginning "upon which a permanent
course may be laid in the future."
Under the authority of the board, a training class was organized by the
superintendent, and he declares the experiment a success in many ways,
and asks for the establishment of a training class, with a definitely pre
scribed course of study and practice covering at least a year.
In the Report for 1891 is recorded the following, concerning school
accommodations : —
" The city has been doing grand work in the erection of new buildings,
and the enlargement of old ones ; but we must not forget that the city is
growing very fast, and that something must be done each year.'' ..." The
city must not expect to pause in the building of schoolhouses." . . . "New
buildings in all the school districts will be imperatively demanded within a
few years." " Immediate steps towards the erection of a new high school " are de
clared necessary, and cogent reasons are urged therefor. The loss of the
city by the resignation of Miss C. I. Livingstone is recorded, as is also that
incurred by the resignation of Miss E. A. Herrick, whose work is highly
commended by the committee on drawing and penmanship.
The Year 1892. — " The new board organized with a new mayor in the
chair, William H. Hodgkins, who had been a member twelve years ago by
virtue of being the president of the common council. He greeted here sev
eral who had been his former associates on the school board, either having
been in continuous membership or former members. His words of hearty
sympathy with the work of education and his earnest determination to exert
all possible effort for the schools were an inspiration."
In February the following report concerning the English high school
was adopted : —
"That we renew and reinforce the report of the committee of 1891, as
follows : ' That the city government be requested to erect immediately a
schoolhouse, suitably arranged and furnished, for an English high school,
provided also with accommodations for the department of industrial educa
tion, together with a hall sufficiently large for graduating exercises, etc' "
A School Exhibit was held on June 17 and 18 in the high school
building, which formed an interesting feature of the Semi-Centennial Cele
bration. As director of music for the first four grades, Mrs. Gish Garwood
was elected in May. In January, Miss Augusta L. Batch was chosen direc-

202 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
tor of drawing. Miss Herrick having resigned (in June, 1891), to accept a
position in the New York College for Training Teachers. The superinten
dent mentions the enlargement of the Edgerly school, and states that " six
}ears ago there were one hundred and twelve classrooms in twenty-one
buildings ; now we have one hundred and forty-seven (occupied) rooms in
twentj'-two buildings," and some districts are still "cramped for room."
" As compared with the erection of school buildings, the city has devel
oped much faster in the construction of dwellings and in population."
In 1886, in the primary and grammar schools there were 44.7 pupils to
a teacher on the average, and now there are 47. Several pages of the re
port are devoted to an exhaustive presentation of the necessity for a new
English high school, and the advantages that would result from such a
school. Regarding sanitation and building, the work done during the
year is reviewed, and the importance of continuing the " good work so suc
cessfully begun," is emphasized.
The superintendent expresses his pleasure in reporting that the teachers
and friends of the Lincoln school " had formed an association to raise
funds for the purpose of ornamenting the schoolrooms with works of art."
He also mentions the fact that a " large sum of money had been donated
by Hon. Edward Glines, for the purchase of pictures for the Glines school."

CHAPTER XVII.
History of the Schools {Coiicluded).
SUPERIN PENDENCY OF GORDON A. ScjUTHWORTH.
The School Board of 1893, organized with three new members, F. W.
Gilbert, president of the common council, George S. Poole of ward one, and
Herbert A. Chapin of ward two. The committee renewed the recommenda
tion of previous boards for a new high school, and increased accommoda
tions for various sections of the city.
On April 24, the ma)'or announced the death of ex-mayor Charles G.
Pope, and, on motion of Col. Bingham, suitable resolutions were adopted.
On May 29, Superintendent Meleney announced his election to the Teachers'
College of New York, and the principalship of the Horace Mann School of
Observation and Practice, and placed his resignation in the hands of the
board, to take effect October i. Later a vote was passed allowing the
resignation to go into effect September i.
On June 26, Gordon A. Southworth was unanimously elected super
intendent. On October 30, the board adopted unanimously a vote of recognition
and commendation of the valuable service rendered the city of Somer
ville by Mr. Meleney.
On June 26, a vote commending the work of John S. Hayes as prin
cipal of the Forster school for a period of fifteen years was unanimously
passed.

Mina J. Wendell.

S. Henry Hadley.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

205

On August 28, resolutions appreciative of Mr. Southworth's twenty
years' service as principal of the Prescott school were unanimously adopted
by the board.
A review of the work done for the schools, while Superintendent Mel
eney was at the helm, is presented in Mr. Southworth's report for 1893, a
portion of which is herewith presented. It is entitled
" A Five Years' Retrospect."
" In their report for 1888, the committee say, ' With the report of super
intendent Joshua H. Davis for 1887, we appropriately close the first volume
of our school history as a city.' Possibly the recent change in the superin
tendency of our schools may not inappropriately be said to mark the close
of the second volume. At any rate it is the end of a chapter.
" The rapid growth of our population, the increase of our schools, and
the efforts of our city to supply educational facilities equal to the demand,
will best be seen by comparing the numbers in the two columns below : —

No. of children between 5 and 1 5 years of age
Average number belonging to the schools
No. of schoolrooms, grammar and primary
No. of teachers employed ....
High-school pupils in December .
High-school teachers
High-school rooms . ....
Grammar-school graduates . . .
High-school graduates . . .
Amount spent for support of schools
Cost per pupil 
Estimated value of school property
Valuation of the city ....

5.959
5,488 112139
411 1010
243 59
#103,552 18.87
.'?428,554
28,765,400

1S53.

7,1917,217 152184
618 1510
399 82
^50,101 20.80

725
41,820,700

Per cent of
Increase.

323632 5050 O
643945 10
4945

" A comparison of the numbers in the preceding table shows that during
the last five years the increase of school accommodations, with the note
worthy exception of the high school, has just about kept pace with the
increase of children. Forty modern schoolrooms, well ventilated, well
lighted, and well adapted to use, have been added by the construction of
the Knapp, Glines, and Pope schoolhouses, and by the enlargement of the
Morse, Highland, and Edgerly buildings. Four rented rooms occupied in
1888 have been abandoned, the Brastow schoolhouse has been converted
into an engine-house, and the Union school building has been sold, making
a net gain in the five years of thirty-seven schoolrooms, containing sittings
for 1,946 pupils. The increase in the number of pupils has been 1,729.
" This comparison also shows that the rate of increase in the value of
school property slightly exceeds the increase in the assessors' valuation of
property in the city, while the expense of supporting the schools has in-

206 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
creased in exactly the same ratio as the city's ability to pay as indicated by
the value of real and personal property in the city. We observe further
more, that the gain in the number of graduates of the high school is greater
than the gain in school population, and this too notwithstanding all the
disadvantages of its crowded condition."
"The school board of Somerville, . . . with the wise and prudent con
servatism that refuses to accept the new simply because it is new, . . . under
the leadership of a courageous and enthusiastic educator, gradually intro
duced into our schools during five years that we are reviewing, new forms
and methods of development and training fully in accord with the general
trend of education in these latter days.
" The first movement in advance was the adoption of a system of in
dustrial drawing that experience has proved to be based on sound educa
tional principles. To train teachers and to direct the work, a skilled super
visor of drawing was employed. Under this expert direction, seconded by
the enthusiastic co-operation of teachers and the growing interest of pupils,
the system in all its details has become firmly established in our schools. . .
Following this came the introduction of manual training for girls, in the
form of sewing. . . . Two teachers of sewing were employed and a systematic
method of instruction adopted, which has since become widely known as
the ' Somerville system,' and which competent judges declared to be the
best exhibited at the World's Fair."
In 1889, the miscellaneous calisthenic exercises given in some schools
were replaced by the form of Swedish gymnastics known as the " Ling
system," which was regularly introduced into all grades. A competent
supervisor was employed to direct the work and instruct the teachers.
" The introduction of the normal system of music into the primary
schools, and the employment of a special director to supervise the work in
them, marked an important advance in musical instruction in our city. . . .
It has since been extended to the fourth and fifth grades." " Another
modification of our school work that helps to put Somerville in step with
other municipalities is the introduction, to a limited extent, of nature study y
Though no special teacher for this work has been employed, he declares
that " an excellent beginning has been made."
" One other improvement has characterized the period we are consider
ing. It is the extension and systematizing of supplementary reading. . .
Our school reading now runs definitely along four lines, extending and sup
plementing the work in history, geography, science and literature."
" A statement of what has been accomplished during these five years
would be incomplete without some allusion to the efforts that have been
made to secure additional accommodations for pupils that wish to pursue a
high school course. . . Suffice it to say, that at last all these labors have
been crowned with success."
" Not to prolong this retrospect, mention only is made of the formation
of historical class-libraries, which raise the study of history above the plane
of merely memoriter exercises, and of the extension of history study down-

Prospect hill School. harvard School. knapp School.
POPE School. beech street School.
Cummings School. Luther v. Bell School.

Lincoln School.
highland School.

Hodgkins School.
Bingham School.

Durell School.
Burns School.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .IND PRESENT. 2 09
wards into lower grades ; of changes in methods of teaching geography,
which require less time and compel observation and thought and secure
expression in its various forms — words, maps and drawings ; of attempts
to co-ordinate language-study with work in geography, history, science, and
literature ; and of the complete revision of the course of study, adapting it
to the new lines of work."
Concerning the teachers of the city, the Superintendent says : " Of the
170 regular teachers, 104, or 60 per cent, have been appointed within
five years. . . . The average term of service for our entire corps of regular
teachers is six years." ..." Thirty-six per cent of all our teachers have
had the professional training given by normal schools ; nine per cent are
college graduates ; six per cent have had a year in some training school ;
forty-eight per cent, about one-half of them, entered upon the work of teach
ing with the education which an ordinary high school gives — some of the
latter came to us after considerable experience elsewhere."
" The changed condition and constantly increasing requirements in our
schools demand in teachers wider culture, broader knowledge, and profes
sional education." ..." Teaching is now everywhere recognized as a pro
fession." ..." The conversion of one of our largest schools into a training
school seems to be a necessity forced upon us by the situation." .
" These teachers in training would be excellent substitutes." ..." Other
cities have such schools, and their success is multiplying their numbers."
" This portion of the report cannot be closed without bearing witness
to the character of the teachers now employed by the city. In the main
they are well equipped either by training or experience or both. They are
conscientious, hard-working, enthusiastic, faithful. Their lot is not an easy
one, notwithstanding the popular impression. They are expected to make
the school. They have heard ten thousand times, ' The teacher is the
school.' They know that the plastic material will forever bear the impress
of their own characters. They must be what their pupils should become.
. . . Teachers are assured that their fidelity and labor are appreciated, not
only by school officials, but by the public, who realize their indebtedness to
them, the most useful members in any community."
" Prominent among the questions now agitating the pedagogical world
is the one that has reference to changes in the grammar school curriculum.
Extended college courses have led to increased demands upon fitting
schools, and they, in turn, are inquiring whether some of the work done by
them may not be done in grammar grades. Discussions upon the true
educational value of different studies have given expression to widely dif
ferent opinions. . . Experiments are making with a view to the evolution
of what is best. Educational empiricists are advocating the introduction
into the grammar schools of Latin, French, German, algebra, geometry,
physics, chemistry, botany, zoology, geology, etc. The incoming of the
new involves the exclusion of the old, for no one advocates lengthening the
time by either daily or annual increase. Indeed, there are some that, with
all the so-called enrichment, clamor for a reduction of the time spent in

2IO SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
education. The various exercises of the schools are being tested to ascer
tain their relative educational and practical value, — their value in strength.
ening and training the intellectual faculties as distinguished from their
value in informing and equipping the student for some specific employment
in the future." . .
"The great majority of children do not go through our schools, but
drop out all along the way." ..." More than one-half our children are in
the four lower grades, while but one-twelfth of them are in the high school,
and one sixty-sixth in the highest, or graduating class." . . . " Our pupils
leave school to engage in commercial or ^industrial pursuits, and what
we do for the great majority of them must be done below high-school
grade." Concerning School Exhibits, the superintendent says : " Since our last
report two exhibitions have been called for, one at the high school, June 17,
1892, where each pupil was represented by a garment of her own making,
and one for the World's Fair at Chicago." In concluding his report, which
is replete with important recommendations and suggestions, the superin
tendent says : " The most pressing need is so to increase our school ac
commodations that every child of school age in Somerville may have a com
fortable seat five hours in every day in an uncrowded schoolroom whose air
and light and heat shall be the best that modern science affords. This
need supplied, the number of pupils assigned to a single instructor should
be reduced to a teachable limit." ..." Upon the schools, more than upon
all other agencies combined, depend our future welfare and prosperity."
As the successor of Mr. Hayes in the Forster school, Mr. Fred C.
Baldwin, of Manchester, N. H., was chosen.
The year 1894 was marked by the addition of four rooms to the
Knapp school, four to the Bingham, and the erection of a new four-room
building at the corner of Beacon and Kent streets, which was named the
" George W. Durell School," " in honor of an esteemed citizen, for eleven
years a member of the committee, . . . one whose life and character furnish
an inspiration and an example for the youth who shall in coming years
share the advantages of the school bearing his name."
The superintendent reported that there had been a gain of 450 children
of school age, and made specific recommendations concerning additional
accommodations. "The year 1895," says Superintendent Southworth, "has been a pros
perous one in the school history of Somerville.''
In regard to the expense of the school department, he says : —
"While the amount spent for the maintenance of our schools seems
large, it will be noticed . . . that among the thirty cities of the State we stood
seventeenth in the percentage of taxable property paid for the support of
public schools in 1894."
Attention is called to the fact that "there are 542 more children in
Somerville to-day than there were a year ago."
" Of the 209 teachers in the employ of the city, three are in training

Francis H. Raymond.

George W. Perkins.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

:i3

without pay ; forty-one have been newly elected during the year, 1 7 of these
to positions in the English high school."
Supt. Southworth says : " The long-talked of training school for Som
erville must soon become a reality."
Under the head of Patriotic Instruction the superintendent
mentions, as prominent among th^ ¦ of the Legislature of 1895 affecting
schools, the law requiring the uni ' upted display of the U. S. flag upon
or within schoolhouses while schools are in session, and says an attempt
has been made to conform to this requirement. The most of our school
buildings have been provided with flags by the generosity of public-spirited
and patriotic citizens or the contributions of equally patriotic children.
Miss Mary L. Patrick was chosen supervisor of drawing, and Miss
Sarah I. Stanton teacher of sewing.
Care of Schoolhouses.
" When the last revision of the city ordinances was made, the janitors of
schoolhouses were placed under the election and control of the Committee
on Public Property. Previously they had been responsible to the School
Board, as is the case in most towns and cities. The change has not been
advantageous to the schools. The efficiency of the service has not been
increased. The local School Committee are in constant communication
with teachers and with schools, and to them the janitors should be respon
sible. Any needed criticism now reaches the ultimate authority in a very
roundabout way, and reforms and changes are often slow in coming and
unsatisfactory in character."
The following tables are taken from the superintendent's report for
1895:- Annual Cost of Maintaining the Schools
FOR A SERIES OF YEARS.
Amounts are given to the nearest dollar and include what has been
paid for maintaining daj- and evening schools of all grades.

1885
1886 1887
18881889189018911892
189318941895

Average

Instruction

Member

and

ship.

Supervision.

4,904

% 79,506

4,985

83,542

5,198

86,713

5.488

88,967

5,956

96,466

6,486

104,184

6,502

1 14,066

7,035

124,232

7,217

128,720

7,212

132,919

7,617

144,113

Water and
Light.

Heating.

S 728

54,965

6241 765!

4,9296.475

953 805
1,004

7,121
6.081 5.586

1,0471,064

8,032 7,148

1,014 958
1,398

8,312
9,673 8,796

Janitors.

J* 4,000
4,194 5,0845,892
6,448 7,5398,544
9,795
10,16010,68611,581

School
Supplies.

S 8,449
6,676 7,526 7,421
9,903
10,371 13,899 1 2,944
10,13710,91915,063

Total.

% 97,648
99,865
106,563110,354119,703128,684 145,588155,183158,333 165,153
180,951

214

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT

Annual Cost per Capita of Maintaining Schools
for a series of years.
[Based on the average membership.]

Year.

Instruction and

Janitors, Water,

School
Supply

Total.

Assessors' Valua
tion of City.

Ratio of cost of
school main
tenance to

Light.

valuation.
1885
li(l6.2I
#1.98
$1.72
$19.91
$24,878,400
.00392
1886
16.76
1.94
1-34
20.03
26,003,200
.00384
1887
16.68
2-37
1-45
20.50
27,469,300
.00388
1 888
16.21
2.54
1.36
20.1 I
28,756.400
.00384
1889
16.20
2.24
1.66
20.10
30.004,600
•00399
1890
16.06
2.18
1.60
19.84
32,557,500
¦00395
1891
17-54
2.71
2.14
22.39
36,843,400
•00395
1892
17.66
2.56
1.84
22.06
38.093,100
.00407
1S93
17.84
2.70
1.40
21.94
41,773,600
•00379
1894
18.43
2.96
1.51
22.90
44,142,900
•00374
1895
18.92
2.86
1.98
23.76
46,506,300
.00390
The average per cent of attendance for eleven years from 1885 to 1895
was 94.1.
Amount Spent Annually for New Schoolhouses, and for Repairs,
ETC.,
FOR A SERIES OF YEARS.
Year.
For New School-
houses.
For Repairs.
For Maintaining
Schools.
Amount spent for all
school purposes.
1885
119,185
$ 7,052
$ 97,648
$113,885
1886
15,515
8,706
99,865
114,086
1887
14,839
13,636
106,563
135,038
1888
4.996
13,994
110,354
129,344
1889
20,167
14,225
119,703
154,095
1890
7S,77S
19,168
128,684
223,627
1891
84,902
14,847
145.588
245,337
1892
12,679
17,734
155,183
176,001
1893
22,809
I 2,440
158,333
193,582
1894
82,206
*44,764
165,155
292,125
1895
87,680
15,651
180,951
284,282
Population of Somerville.
1^:42 ....
1,013
1880
• 24,985
1850
3-540
1885
29,992
i860 .
8,025
1890
40,117
1865
9,366
1895
52,200
1870 ....
• 14,693
1896
55,000
1875 ....
• 21,594
* Including heating apparatus in both High Schcol buildings.
Davis School. prescott School.
Bennett school.
edgerly school. jackson school.

GLINES SCHOOL. FORSTER SCHOOL.
CEDAR STREET SCHOOL.
MORSE SCHOOL. FRANKLiN SCHOOL.

Harry F Hathaway.

George m. Wadsworth.

John S. Emerson.

Charles E. Brainard.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

217

An interesting feature of the report is furnished in the portraits and
biographies of the distinguished citizens for whom schools have been
named, which is hereto appended.

Prescott, William H. Prescott.
Franklin, Benjamin Franklin.
Forster, Charles Forster.
Brastow, George O. Brastow.
Jackson, Andrew Jackson.
Lincoln, Charles S. Lincoln.
Bennett, Clark Bennett.
Webster, Daniel Webster.
Morse, Enoch R. Morse.
Edgerly, John S. Edgerly.

L. V. Bell, Luther V. Bell.
Cummings, John A. Cummings.
Davis, Joshua H. Davis.
Burns, Mark F. Burns.
Bingham, Norman W. Bingham.
O. S. Knapp, Oren S. Knapp.
Charles G. Pope, Charles G. Pope.
J. T. Glines, Jacob T. Glines.
G. W. Durell, George W. Durell.
Hodgkins, William H. Hodgkins.

Head Masters, Masters and Principals of Schools.

Latin high school : —
George L. Baxter, head master
Frank M. Hawes, master .
English high school : —
Charles T. C. Whitcomb, head master
Winfred C. Akers, master
Prescott, Samuel A. Johnson, master
Edgerly, Charles E. Brainard, master
Davis, Frances Meldrum, principal
Bell, Frederick W. Shattuck, master
Cummings, Lydia J. Page, principal
Prospect Hill, Helen Tincker, principal
Oren S. Knapp, John S. Emerson, master
Charles G. Pope, George M. Wadsworth, master
Jackson, Annie E. McCarthy, principal .
Bennett, Mary B. Smith, principal .
Forster, Fred C. Baldwin, master .
Glines, Mary E. Northup, principal
Bingham, Harry F. Hathaway, principal
Morse, Mina J. Wendell, principal.
Franklin, Harriet A. Hills, principal
Durell, Nora F. Byard, principal
Beech street, Elizabeth S. Foster, principal .
Harvard, Grace B. Tibbetts
Burns, Laura J. Brooks, principal
Cedar street, Lizzie A. Davies, principal
Highland, George E. Nichols, master .
Hodgkins, Arthur L. Doe, master .
Lincoln, J. Louise Smith, principal

Beginning of service.
. 1867
• 1879

1895 1896
1893 188918961890
1869 1872
1894 189I1880 1885189318781890188218741884 1896 1890
1883
1893 1877
1896
1896

2l8 SOMERVILLE, PA.ST AND PRESENT.
Special Teachers.
Instructor in music in high schools, and grades 7, 8 and 9 of grammar
schools, S. Henry Hadley.
Supervisor of penmanship, William A. Whitehouse.
Supervisor of drawing, Mary L. Patrick.
Supervisor of music, grades i to 6 inclusive, Mrs. Gish Garwood.
Teachers of sewing, Sarah I. Stanton, Mary L. Boyd.
Superintendents prior td 1866.
In 1857 Rev. George H. Emerson, who was a member of the school
board, was elected to the office of superintendent at a salary of #300. Re
signing in 1S65, he was succeeded by O. S. Knapp, who had for ten years
been principal of the Prospect Hill grammar school. In 1866, Mr. Knapp
was succeeded by Joshua H. Davis.
Superintendent Southworth has kindly furnished the following concern
ing the schools for 1896 : —
At the present time there are twenty-five school buildings in Somer
ville ; two hundred and twenty teachers in day schools, and twenty-seven in
evening schools. In the day schools there are eight thousand eight hundred
pupils, being an increase of nearly six hundred over the number in 1895.
There are about four hundred pupils in the evening schools. In June,
1896, three hundred and seventy pupils were graduated from the grammar
schools, seventy-six per cent of whom entered the high schools.
High Schools.
As early as 1647, 3-n ordinance was passed by the General Court of
Massachusetts, making education universal and free, and requiring every
town containing one hundred families to maintain a grammar school, — simi
lar to the high schools of the present time, — to be kept by a master who
" should be able to instruct youth so far as they may be fitted for the
university." By an act of 1826, "every town may, and every town containing five
hundred families or householders, shall maintain a high school." In 1851,
measures were inaugurated by the citizens of Somerville, for the erection of
a building and the establishment of a high school. The building was ded
icated April 28, 1852, and the school was organized on the 3d of May
following. After an examination sixty-six pupils were admitted. In August
following, twenty-two additional pupils entered the school.
In August, 1859, when Mr. Babcock assumed charge, it contained fort}--
three pupils. The course of study required three years. Pupils of the first
class studied the Latin reader. None had been prepared for college, and
none had been graduated.
In i860, two courses of study of four years were adopted, one a regular
course including the Latin language, the other a course preparatory to
collesje.

" > •^ ...
r

• "ill -

English and Latin High Schools.

C/5

Oo
cu
c/i

oo
a

ct

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

2 2 1

In 1862, diplomas were awarded to six graduates. In 1870, an English
or mercantile course was adopted. The advent of Mr. Babcock to the
school was the introduction of a new and prosperous era. In his efforts to
improve the school he was greatly assisted by Charles S. Lincoln, Esq.,
then a member of the school board. Under the judicious management of
Mr. Babcock and his successor, Mr. Geo. L. Baxter, the school has con
stantly increased in numbers, efficiency and popular favor. In September,
1867, Mr. Babcock resigned, and Mr. Baxter became principal. The school
then contained one hundred and nineteen pupils. In 1872 (March 4), when
the school held its first session in the new building, it contained one hun
dred and fifty pupils. The reports of committees and superintendents fur
nish abundant evidence that, under Mr. Baxter's management, the school
has performed admirable work in preparing pupils for higher institutions of
learning, and has pursued a liberal policy towards those who desired to sup
plement the grammar-school course by studies of practical value to them in
their various contemplated pursuits in life.
During the twenty years that it occupied the old building, eight hundred
and fifty-three pupils were admitted to the school, and one hundred and
forty-one received diplomas of graduation. Previous to Mr. Baxter's acces
sion to the school, fifty pupils had been graduated, only six of whom entered
upon a college course.
The constant growth in the number of pupils and of graduates, since
1867, has been so remarkable that we present the following brief table of
statistics illustrating it.

Year.

Largest number in High
School.

No. Graduated.

No. who entered College or
Scientific Schools.

1867

119

7

4

1872

186

21

2

1877

227

37

7

1882

280

33

14

1887

387

53

15

1892

577

80

25

1893

626

82

29

1894

691

1 1 1

33

1895

775

92

29

1896

855

118

25

By reference to the superintendent's report for 1895, page 95, we find
that the per cent of the average membership of all the schools maintained
by the high school has increased from 0.32 in 1867, and 0.75 in 1868, to 1.52
in 1894, and r.21 in 1895 ; or averaging the first two years above mentioned
and the last two, the pei: cent for the years 1894 and 1895 is 1.365 as against
0.535 for the years 1867 and 1868.
The names of principals of the high school, and their terms of service,
are as follows : —

222 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Robert Bickford, from 1854 to 1856.
Samuel J. Pike, from 1856 to 1858.
Isaac N. Beals, from 1858 to 1859.
Henry H. Babcock, from 1859 to 1867.
George L. Baxter, from 1867 to 1897.
In submitting the report of the committee on the high school for the
year 1890, Dr. A. H. Carvill said: "When this school first occupied the
present high school building, March 4, 1872, it contained one hundred and
fifty pupils and si.x teachers, a teacher to every twenty-five pupils. In
September of this year, it contained four hundred and eighty-seven pupils
and ten teachers, a teacher to every forty-nine pupils. . . . But even these
figures do not represent the full amount of crowding in the lower classes,
where the average is nearly sixty to a teacher.'' The report recommended
the establishment of an English high school, and speaks of Principal Bax
ter's work closing with these words: "He had seen the school double in
the number of pupils to each teacher, and his duties have more than
doubled, and yet his students go into college and maintain their rank there
with the best schools in the State."
The opening of the schools in September, 1895, was marked by the be
ginning of the new English high school, which furnished the much-needed
relief to the Latin high school. Concerning the latter, the superintendent
speaks as follows : — Latin High School.
" While our attention is naturally turned to the English high school as
an illustration of the advantages resulting from a division of the high
school, we must not lose sight of the gain accruing to our educational
system in the superior opportunities that the pupils of the Latin school
enjoy as a result of the change. . . Its two hundred and sevent}'-five
members are all fitting for college. They are animated by a common pur
pose, and stimulated to constant efforts by the desire to attain the standard
of excellence required to reach their goal. . Already it is apparent that
better work is being done, and more rapid progress made than ever before.
The Somerville high school has always been conspicuous for the excellence
of its college preparatory work, and it is saying much to remark that in the
future it will surpass all previous records."
From Superintendent Southworth's report is taken the following con
cerning The English High School.
" The Unitarian church property was purchased for the sum of ^45,000,
and an appropriation of $80,000 made for the construction of an English
high schoolhouse. Several plans were submitted by architects, and those
of Hartwell, Richardson & Driver were accepted. Ground was broken
December 5, 1893, and the work progressed without serious interruption
until the building was ready for occupancy, September 3, 1895.
" The building is admirably planned and thoroughly constructed

George L. Baxter.

Charles T. C. Whitcomb.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 225
throughout, thanks to the efficiency of the several committees and the
unflagging zeal, energy, and watchfulness of Chairmen Andrews and Spar
row, to whom the city is greatly indebted for their labors in this con
nection." The entire cost of the building and furnishings was $147,725.59.
As principal of the school, the committee selected Mr. Charles T. C.
^^'hitcomb, principal of the Wakefield high school, on the 29th of April,
Mr. Whitcomb is a native of Thomaston, Maine. He was graduated from
Amherst college in 1883, and taught in Sandwich for five years, becoming
principal of the Wakefield high school in 1888. The superintendent says :
" His conduct of the affairs of the English high school up to the present
time shows that the choice of principal was wisely made."

School Committee, 1896.
Hon. Albion A. Perry, mayor, chairman ex officio.
George E. Whitaker, president of common council, member ex officio.

Ward I. -

Sanford Hanscom, i Webster street
S. Newton Cutler, 28 Flint street .
George S. Poole, 46 Mt. Vernon street
Ward II. — Thomas M. Durell, 23 Bow street .
Alvah B. Dearborn, 34 Bow street .
Herbert A. Chapin, 41 Walnut street
-Thomas S. Wentworth, 350 Broadway .
Frank H. Hardison, 192 Central street .
Quincy E. Dickerman, 85 Central street
¦ Martin W. Carr, 74 Craigie street .
George A. Miles, 417 Highland avenue
Giles W. Bryant, 296 Elm street
Gordon A. Southworth, secretary and superintendent of schools.
fice, English high school building. Residence, 40 Greenville street.

Ward III.

Ward IV.-

Term expires
January, • 1897

1899 1897

1897
1898 1899189718981899 Of-

EDUCATIONAL INTERESTS.
BY ALBERT E. WIN.SHIP.

CHAPTER XVIII.
The schools of Somerville have maintained a good standard of excel
lence through all the years. They have never been poor nor have they taken
highest rank in the opinion of experts. They have neither been the first
nor the last to introduce any new thing. The name of the city has never
been attached to any special educational notion in administration, method
or device, neither has it been connected with conservative opposition to
progress. Somerville has always had her schools in good working order, has al-
waj-s done good work for her pupils, and the record of her youth and maidens
in entrance examinations for college and in final honors in the university
courses has placed her high school among the first three fitting schools of
the country. So far as it is possible to estimate what the schools do for
those who go out into the world rather than into college, no schools have
done more by way of preparation for citizenship, for industrial or commer
cial life. To be a graduate of the Somerville public schools is considered
an honor, baseduponwhat her graduates have done in business, professional
and political life.
Originally the only school in this territory was very rural, an out-of-the-
way country school for the much scattered farm-people who lived " beyond
the Neck." Charlestown was a thrifty town, the Neck was the boundary of
the village, and the outlying farms were merely " beyond the Neck." Fifty
years ago and a little more this rural folk became a town by themselves, a
humble people in their own estimation, and slowly they came to independence
of thought and action.
Their schools first gave them confidence, courage and reputation. A
single church sufficed for a time ; but the four villages at once outlined them
selves about as many schoolhouses, which became at once village rallying-
points for the organization of churches as well as the education of children.
The first reputations were made in connection with the schools. The first
statesman, man of State reputation, was Dr. Luther V. Bell, whose writings
and political championship of education made him a close second to the
illustrious Horace Mann.; and two of the earliest lawyers of the town —
Oren S. Knapp and Charles S. Lincoln — attained the influence and repu
tation that gave them public confidence and practice through their efficient
service as schoolmasters. 226

Rev. Albert E. Winship.

George O. Proctor.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 229
What was so well begun has been well continued. One of the most
successful mayors was one of Somerville's school principals, then a lawyer,
Charles G. Pope. One of her successful physicians, a man of good profes
sional practice with influence in the affairs of public interest — Dr. H. P.
Makechnie — stepped from the Lincoln school into the practitioner's office
after due course of study and the requisite diploma. And Somerville's
librarian, John S. Hayes, went directly from the school to the library.
Schoolhouses.
The public pride in the character and intelligence of the graduates of
the schools and the influence of the teachers and graduates have simplified
the question of appropriations for schools and school buildings. At first
these were a necessity and appropriations were voted by the citizens with
the same sense of duty and justice as that with which they repaired their
country roads; but of late years the authorities have had regard to the
luxuries as well as necessities, and there are no more beautiful buildings
in the city than some of the schoolhouses whose adornments are artistic
and appointments all that can be desired.
In each of the original villages there are several large buildings, and all
boundary lines between the villages have been obliterated by making new
districts in the most unexpected places, erecting large schoolhouses which
have grouped the children of different wards and sections with reckless dis
regard of inherited prejudices, and the end is not yet. So thick and fast
comes the demand for new buildings that it is already a question where
land can be found for all that must be built. No other New England city
has ever had just such an experience in the housing of her scholars. So
compact is the population and so rapid and universal has been the growth
that her experience has been unique ; and the crowning glory of the city
seen far and near, are the companion high schools, the most distinguished
looking buildings to be seen in the vicinity of Boston from any of the lines
of public travel.
The Teachers.
It is a truism so old as to be almost absurd, that the teacher is the
school. This is especially advantageous for Somerville, whose teachers
have been exceptionally strong men and women. Mention has already been
made of Messrs. Knapp and Lincoln, Pope, Makechnie and Hayes, men
who have left teaching for more remunerative professions. Then there have
been men like W. B. Stevens, called to Staten Island ; Alfred Bunker, Henry
C. Parker, Herbert L. Morse, Edgar L. Raub, H. H. Newton, Harry An
drews and other men called to Boston ; Frank F. Murdock, Adelaide Reed,
and Miss Turner, who have been called to the State normal school at Bridge-
water. Mr. F. E. Forest, of the high school, is the leading criminal lawyer
of Chicago and of the West. These are types merely of the men and women
who have considered themselves promoted by their going.

2 30 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Those who remain are not less worthy of note. In the churches of the
city, in all religious organizations, in Masonry, Odd Fellowship, the Royal
Arcanum and other fraternities, the teachers have been an important factor.
A cleaner set of men, a nobler class of women are not to be found in any
community. They are representative of the best reading and thinking, of
the highest purpose and noblest aspiration of the city.
The School Boards.
Somerville has been specially favored in the men who have been
willing to serve upon the school board. It is a thankless task and one that
offers no political preferment. It is a service with a mission rather than an
office with a reward. In the case of Dr. Luther V. Bell, it was a great ser
vice with a grand mission. In the entire history of Somerville, no other
name occupies so high a place in the niche of fame. It would be a luxury
to write appropriately the story of his life. He was the most eminent
physician, the most influential man of affairs the city has ever produced, and
occupies a prominent place among the educational celebrities of the State.
His school reports written fifty years ago are next to those of Horace
Mann. Men like Oren S. Knapp and Charles S. Lincoln, e.\-teachers and
leading citizens, gave much time to this service of their fellow men, each has
a school named for him, an honor infinitely beyond that which attaches to
the naming of a school for an official merely. In their case it recorded public
appreciation of personal devotion to the cause of education.
There have always been prominent persons from each ward, men or
women, in whom the public has had such confidence that support of every
measure has been prompt and hearty. Among the many leaders of long
and efficient service it may not be invidious to mention Hon. John Haskell
Butler, Henry M. Moore, Dr. Sanford Hanscom, Norman W. Bingham,
Quincy E. Dickerman, Prof. B. F. Brown, M. W. Carr, and Dr. A. H. Car
vill. These are a few only of the many who have served term after term
wisely and well, giving to the schools their best thought and unwearied en
deavor. The Superintendents.
After all has been said by way of general praise, that which stands out
clear as the day is the fact that the schools owe their pre-eminence to four
men. Dr. Luther V. Bell, Joshua H. Davis, George L. Baxter and Gordon
A. Southworth. Dr. Bell was the greatest educational character, but to Mr.
Davis, long a member of the town school committee, and for more than a
quarter of a century the superintendent, the city owes more than it can ever
repay. The greatest service any one ever renders a community educationally
is in the selection of efficient teachers. The great danger to the public
school system has ever been the choice of incompetent teachers because of
personal or political favoritism. To-day it is a recognized impropriety for

t

Edmund S. Sparrow.

U I

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 233
a member of the school board to insist upon his preference over the profes
sional judgment of the joint opinion of the superintendent and a principal ;
but in Mr. Davis' day there were no such recognized limits to propriety.
Then the teachers were largely untrained, and local residence or committee
favoritism counted for much ; and yet in these adverse conditions Mr. Davis
had the wisdom and the skill to get the best available talent, to place the
good to the best advantage and the indifferent to the least disadvantage.
Ideals of teaching were quite different twenty years ago from what they are
to-day, and yet Mr. Davis had standards so high and his tests were so rigid
that results were attained that seem now impossible under such conditions.
The knowledge of the children was exact, facts and processes learned were
retained and the pupils had themselves well in hand in their thinking and
in the expression of their thought.
No three men ever worked together more perfectly than Mr. Davis,
Mr. Baxter, principal of the high school for more than a quarter of a cen
tury, and Mr. Southworth, principal of the Prescott grammar school for
nearly twenty years. Mr. Baxter has trained an entire generation, has
fitted for college practically every Somerville boy and girl that has ever
enjoyed the advantages of a higher education. Men now in the pulpit and
at the bar, in medicine and dentistry, in professors' chairs and in the enjoy
ment of literary honors, men of business and women of the best society,
people scattered over the world on missions and in missions did all their pre
paratory work under his guidance. With high ideals, close and accurate
scholarship, a born trainer, Mr. Baxter placed the Somerville high school at
the front when he became its principal, and it has never lagged an hour
through all the years of his administration.
But to Mr. Gordon A. Southworth has come the greatest opportunity.
He was long the leading grammar school principal in the city, if not in the
suburbs. A great teacher, a genius in administration, an inspiration, a per
sonal and professional force, he left the impress of his mind and purpose
upon a multitude of girls and boys ; while in grammar school work he
prepared a series of language books and arithmetics. This working out of
ideal into definite shape, materializing notions in a system of teaching, broad
ened his professional vision and intensified his force so that he was admirably
fitted for local leadership and a representative position when he was chosen
superintendent of the Somerville schools.
Mr. Clarence E. Meleney succeeded Mr. Davis, and in five years
he transferred the system from the old to the new in method and spirit.
This work has to be done sooner or later for every city. It matters not
how efficient the work or how good the results under the old regime, the new
must be substituted, and Mr. Meleney made the transfer with much skill,
so that Mr. Southworth presides over entirely different schools from those
that Mr. Davis passed to Mr. Meleney.
Since Mr. Davis' retirement an entirely new series of school buildings
have arisen all over the city, and a new English high school, with every
modern appointment in laboratory and kitchen, with popularized courses of

2 34 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
study, and a new professional equipment of the highest order, has seated
itself in Mr. Baxter's school yard. Mr. Whitcomb, the latest professional
accession, is an educational force of which any city might well beproud,
and Somerville has taken every occasion to show her appreciation of the
character of the work in the English high school.
Somerville's educational advantages are due not alone to her teachers,
school boards and superintendents, but in large measure to her citizens who
are neither rich nor poor, but of that best of all social conditions, the mid
dle classes. No private school or academy has ever prospered in the city,
and no community of the size has contributed less to the patronage of such
schools in neighboring cities. There is a large parochial school in the city,
but its establishment was in no sense due to criticism of the public schools,
and every effort has been made to have the educational character of the
school conform so far as possible to the public school standards.
The people have confidence in the school authorities, respect the
methods and spirit of the teaching and supervising forces, and are proud of
the schools of Somerville. The record is one of which all are proud and
the promise is all that the most ambitious can desire, and the educational
spirit of the city is certain to eventuate in civic power.

Nathaniel Dennett.

Frank E. Merrill.

HISTORY OF THE WATER-WORKS.
BY FRANK E. MERRILL.

CHAPTER XIX.
As Somerville has always been dependent upon neighboring munici
palities for its water-supply, it becomes necessary to treat the subject-mat
ter of this chapter somewhat comprehensively and touch upon features
which might, otherwise, be considered out of place in a history of our local
water-works system.
Although the need of a proper supply was for many years acknowl
edged, the small population of the town precluded the possibility of its
taking advantage of any opportunity of obtaining an independent supply
from the several sheets of water which lie within a comparatively short
distance of its borders.
The first organized company to do a water business within the limits of
the town was the Cambridge Aqueduct Company, which was chartered in
1837, to furnish water to the residents of the lower section of Cambridge-
port, and a tract of land on the southerly slope of Central Hill was pur
chased for the control of the abundant springs then existing in that locality.
This water was conveyed to Cambridge through wooden logs bored out to a
diameter of four inches, and many persons are now living who recall the ex
cellent service done by that somewhat primitive system, as well as the ex
ceptionally pure quality of the water furnished by these springs. At that
period Somerville, or, as it then was, Charlestown, was a sparsely settled
farming district, but the residents in that section through which the pipes
were laid appreciated the luxury of having the water brought into their
houses, and a number of them are recorded as becoming consumers and so
remaining until the discontinuance of the system.
In 1842, the town of Somerville was set off from Charlestown with a
population of about 1000, the most of whom were dependent on wells and
springs for water for their household uses. As early as 1849, the mother
city began to experience the advantages of a piped system of water sup
ply, as at that time the passage of a legislative act was obtained authorizing
the city of Boston to supply East Boston with Cochituate water. This pipe
line, when constructed, passed through Charlestown, and the act required
hydrants to be erected along its course : these were intended to be used for
fire purposes only, but, to some extent, they were made available for domes
tic service. The partial benefits obtained from this source finally led the
authorities to efforts to procure an abundant supply for fire, domestic and
237

238 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
manufacturing purposes. In i860, application was made to the legislature
for the grant of powers to enable the city of Charlestown to obtain a supply
of water. This met with much opposition from land-owners, towns and
cities, as well as from ship-owners and builders from Medford and East
Boston, and even from the merchants of Boston in behalf of Boston Harbor,
which it was feared would be injuriously affected if the proposed dam should
be erected at the outlet of Mystic Lake, thus stopping the flow of fresh
water from the ponds. In 1861, the act was passed under which the present
works were constructed, and the city was authorized to sell its surplus water
to the towns through which the pipes should pass.
As a large portion of these works are located in Somerville and are the
present source of Somerville's water-supply, it seems proper in this place to
give a brief description of the Mystic water-system, although, at that time,
it possessed no direct interest for Somerville.
The legislative act referred to authorized the city of Charlestown to
take water from the northerly division of Mystic pond, and permitted the
waters to be raised seven feet above the original level of the pond.
Mystic Lake is a familiar name to all residents of Somerville, but not
all are acquainted with the picturesque beauties of that sheet of water which
has served our homes for a generation, and fewer still are informed regard
ing those features which are interesting from a water-works point of view.
The northerly portion of the lake from which the water is taken is situated
in the towns of Winchester and Arlington and the city of Medford, and is
about four miles distant from Somerville city hall. It has an area of about
two hundred acres when flowed to the level authorized by the act, and a
storage capacity at that level of 380,000,000 gallons of water. The area of
the country forming the drainage basin is thirty-one square miles, and the
lake receives water from springs abounding in its vicinity and from streams
rising as far away as Reading and Wilmington. The daily yield of the lake
has been estimated at 30,000,000 gallons. The potable qualities of Mystic
Lake, in the early days of its use as a water-supply, were considered excel
lent, but the great increase of population along its watershed in recent
years has had its natural effect and produced a marked deterioration. Much
good has been accomplished by the Boston \\'ater Board in conjunction
with the Metropolitan Park Commission and other authorities, in remov
ing sources of pollution which had sprung up along its borders, but it is
doubtful if the water ever regains its former purity.
The dam, at the outlet of the lake, is fifteen feet wide on top, and is, in
height, eleven feet above high-water mark of Boston harbor, or four feet
above the authorized limit of flowage. The conduit which conveys the
water from the lake to the pipe-chamber on the north bank of Mystic River
is 7,453 feet in length, and is constructed of hydraulic brick masonry eight
inches in thickness, five feet eight inches in height and five feet wide. The
total fall to the pipe-chamber is nine inches, and the conduit is calculated to
convey 35,000,000 gallons each twenty-four hours. From the pipe-house the
water is conveyed in two thirty-six-inch iron pipes under the Mystic River

George D. Wemyss.

George A. Kimball.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT. 241
to the pump-well in the engine-house, whence it is raised by the powerful
engines to an elevation of 147 feet, through a thirty-inch pipe, to the reser
voir on College Hill, a distance of 3,277 feet.
The reservoir, which has become a familiar feature among Somerville's
attractions, is situated on College hill. It is both receiving and distributing
in its scope. In shape it is a parallelogram 350 feet by 560 feet, and its
water-surface covers an area of about four and one-half acres. It is twenty-
five feet in depth and is divided into two portion^ nearly equal in contents,
by a partition wall five feet below high-water line. At high-water mark the
capacity is 26.244,415 gallons. The top of the embankment is 150 feet, the
top water-line 147 feet, and the bottom water-line 124 feet above high-water
level of the harbor. The embankments are nineteen and one-half feet in
width at the top, are laid out with concrete walks and furnished with seats,
making an attractive promenade to which many resort to enjoy the beautiful
scenery spread out in all directions.
From the reservoir the water is conducted through two pipes, the first
one laid being of cast iron, twenty-four inches in diameter, and the other,
laid in 1870, being thirty inches in diameter and constructed of wrought
iron sheets, securely riveted, lined inside with cement and imbedded in a
thick layer of the same material. These pipes deliver the water to the
Charlestown city system and to the distributing pipes of Somerville.
.After the necessary preliminaries, work was commenced on the con
struction of the reservoir on College hill, then called Walnut hill, September
27, 1862, with appropriate ceremonies. Considerable progress was also
made in that year on the contract for the dam and conduit. The construc
tion of the engine-house was commenced in 1863 and completed in 1864,
and in the latter year the water was brought into Charlestown amid great
rejoicing and a general celebration of the event.
Shortly after the completion of its supply main the city of Charlestown
made a connection in Broadway opposite Franklin street, and laid its pipes
through Franklin, Pearl, Myrtle and Washington streets to the McLean
Asylum, this being the first introduction of Mystic water to the houses of
Somerville. During the three following years quite a large territory in East
Somerville and Winter Hill was brought into the Charlestown system, the
e.xpense of the work being borne first by the city ; subsequently the cost of
the pipe and laying was borne by the city, and the expense of trenching was
paid by the parties for whose convenience the pipe was laid; and finally the
entire cost was required from the parties supplied with water. Later these
pipes were purchased by the town from the parties who had been assessed
for their construction.
By the year 1867 the town of Somerville had arisen to the importance
of a prosperous community of about 12,000 inhabitants, imbued with the
spirit of enterprise and mindful of the necessity of soon procuring from
some source an abundant supply of water for the protection of their homes
from fire as well as the enjoyment of its use for domestic purposes.
The subject was introduced to the inhabitants of the town by a petition
presented at a town meeting held November 5, 1867; at this meeting the

242 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
town took its first action in regard to the introduction of Mystic Lake water
when it was "Voted: That Nathan Tufts, Jr., Aaron Sargent, George O.
Brastow, S. A. Carlton, Christopher E. Rymes, Thomas Cunningham and
Levi Russell be a committee to take the whole matter of contracting with
the city of Charlestown for a supply of Mystic water into consideration,
confer with the Charlestown authorities, propose some plan and report at
the next town meeting."
At a town meeting held April 13, 1868, the committee submitted a full
report on all the matters delegated to them, and recommended the election
of a committee to be called the " Somerville Mystic Water Committee," with
authorit}' to make any and all arrangements in regard to the introduction,
distribution and supply of the water.
This report was accepted and adopted, an appropriation of ;J3o,ooo.oo
was made, and Aaron Sargent, C. E. Rymes, R. A. Vinal, R. E. Demmon
and Cutler Downer were elected to constitute the first " Somerville Mystic
Water Committee."
The first work of the committee was to procure the necessary legislation
to authorize the making of a contract with the city of Charlestown for the
use of Mystic water, and permit the laying of the distribution pipes.
The desired act (Chap. 202, Statutes of 1868) was passed by the legis
lature and approved May 14, 1868, the first section being as follows: —
" The town of Somerville is hereby authorized to lay, construct and
maintain within the limits of said town such pipes, aqueducts and structures
in connection with the water-works or aqueducts of the City of Charlestown
as may be requisite for the purpose of supplying water to the inhabitants
of said town for the extinguishment of fires and for other uses."
Immediately upon the passage of this act the committee made appli
cation to the city council of Charlestown for the terms upon which that city
would supply this town with water, and reported their progress at a town
meeting held September 18, 1868. At this meeting a proposition was
strongly advocated for the establishment of an independent system of water
works in connection with the waters of Spot Pond in Stoneham, five and
one-half miles distant from the town line, or of Lake Quanapowitt in Wake
field, seven and one-half miles distant. After much discussion these schemes
were decided unfeasible and it was " Voted : That the town will introduce
water in pursuance of the authority granted to the town " by the act above
referred to.
The contract with the city of Charlestown for the use of Mystic water
was made on September 21, 1868. By the terms of the contract the city of
Charlestown agreed to furnish the water, collect the water-rentals, and to
pay to the town of Somerville a percentage of the rents collected in Somer
ville, on the following sliding scale, viz. : —
On annual receipts up to $20,000 .... 15 per cent.
From 20,000 to $30,000 . . .20 "
From 30,000 to 40,000 . 25 "
From 40,000 to 50,000 . . • 30 "
On the amount in excess of $50,000 . 40 "

William Franklin Hall.

Edward Foote.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .IND PRESENT. 245
The town of Somerville on its part agreed to lay and maintain the dis
tribution pipes and fixtures and to pay the same rates for the use of the
water as was charged to the inhabitants of Charlestown. By the terms of
the agreement the payment for the use of fire-hydrants was fixed at the sum
of S28 for each 350 inhabitants based on the semidecennial census.
On .\ugust 14 a contract was made with the Patent Gas and Water Pipe
Company of Jersey City for furnishing the pipe and gates for the season's
use; on September 11, a contract was made for the trenching, and on Octo
ber s, 1868, the work of laying the pipe was commenced by the town of
Somerville. Connection was made with the Charlestown pipe in Broadway
at the Medford town line and the pipe was continued through Medford and
Central streets, Somerville avenue and Washington street to the grounds of
the McLean Asylum, there connecting with the pipe which had been laid
by the city of Charlestown. This pipe in Medford and Central streets was
twelve inches in diameter, was made of wrought iron lined with cement,
and it is an interesting fact that this section of pipe, the first that was laid
by the town, is to-daj' performing satisfactory service after a period of
twenty-eight years.
This kind of pipe was laid up to the year 1S84, when, on account of in
creasing trouble from bursts, and on account of the decline in cost of iron
pipe, it was abandoned, and cast-iron pipe has been used exclusively since
that time.
In 1869 the pipes laid in Somerville by the city of Charlestown were
purchased from that cit)', and in the following year a line of pipe which had
been laid through Sacramento street to the American Tube Works was
purchased from the city of Cambridge, thus bringing the entire system
under the control of the town authorities.
The rapid growth of the town rendered a change of organization desir
able, and in 1872 the city of Somerville was incorporated. On the 13th day
of January, 1872, by provisions of Chap. 182, Acts of 1871, the " Somerville
M3-stic \\'ater Board " springs into existence, composed of five members,
each elected annually by joint ballot of the city council in convention.
On July I, 1886, after many years of agitation and effort on the part of
the several boards, a modification of the water contract was secured, by the
terms of which the city of Boston, who had meanwhile assumed the Mystic
water-works through the annexation of Charlestown, agreed to rebate to the
city of Somerville fifty per cent of the water-rates collected from Somerville
consumers. This increased the city's revenue from this source from
$21,444.91 in 1885 to $42,650.57 in 1886.
\\'hile the larger portion of the city's territory was, by this time, enjoy
ing the advantages of an abundant water-supply, the high lands, embracing
some of the otherwise most favored localities, were deprived of a satisfac
tory service, the height of the water in the reservoir being insufficient to
give the pressure necessary to supply residences in these elevated sections
of the city. In 1889, in consequence of these conditions, plans were per
fected for the erection of a high-service plant, and in the following year the

246 SOMER!TLLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
system was put into operation, and in its results has proved the wisdom
and foresight of those who urged its construction and carried it through to
a successful termination.
The plant comprises a brick engine- and boiler-house, one high-duty
pumping engine, two steel boilers, a wrought iron standpipe, and a system
of force and distributing mains ranging in size from fourteen-inch to six-
inch. The portion of the city now covered by the high-service system com
prises 309 acres, or about one-eighth of the entire land area of the city. The
water is draughted from the thirty-inch main in Broadway near Cedar street
to the pumping station one-eighth mile distant. It enters the pump under
an average pressure of thirty-eight pounds, and is thence raised to the stand-
pipe on the summit of Spring Hill. The elevation of the base of this stand-
pipe is 144 feet above tide-marsh level. The erection of the standpipe was
commenced September 9, 1889, and was completed November 23 of the same
year, and was filled with water the first time on March i, 1890. The stand-
pipe is 30 feet in diameter, 100 feet in height and has a capacity of 528,768
gallons. The pump was made by Henry R. Worthington, New York, and is a
compound condensing engine with two fourteen-inch high pressure and two
twenty-four and a half-inch low pressure cylinders, with two fourteen-inch
double-acting water plungers of eighteen-inch .stroke. The contract called
for an engine of 2,000,000 gallons daily capacity and a duty of 50,000,000
foot-pounds. At the trial the engine developed a duty of over 64,000,000
and a capacity of over 2,200,000. The steam was generated in one sixty-inch
boiler, and this was in operation until 1894, when a duplicate boiler was
erected for alternation. The total cost of construction of the high-service
plant was about $75,000.
March 11, 1891, passage was obtained of a legislative act reducing the
membership of the Somerville Mystic Water Board from five to three, to
be appointed by the mayor, subject to confirmation by the board of alder
men, the term of office to be three years, one member being appointed an
nually ; thus ensuring a practically permanent and efficient organization.
The present Board consists of George D. Wemyss, president; George A.
Kimball, and Wm. Franklin Hall.
The several boards who have had charge of the affairs of the water de
partment since its organization have, with the co-operation of the town and
city governments, been enabled to keep pace with the rapid growth of the
city and have met all reasonable demands for the extension of the system.
This has resulted in the occupancy of a very large portion of the city's ter
ritory, and the network of pipes of the Somerville water-system covers
practically the entire district.
Starting with two and a half miles of pipe, nineteen hydrants and twenty
stop-gates in 1868, the city now possesses a system comprising about 75
miles of mains, 58 miles of service connections, 700 hydrants, 900 stop-gates,
50 water-posts, 8 drinking fountains and 9,000 service taps.

Walter S. Barnes.

Frank G. Lombard.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 249
The amount of bonds issued on funded debt account for the construc
tion and maintenance of this system has been $1,005,000, and payments have
been made, to January i, 1896, of $683,500, leaving the water indebtedness
at that date $321,500. Since 1892 no water bonds have been issued, the
entire expenses of the department, including its interest account and reduc
tion of its funded debt, being paid from its earnings, and no call is made on
the tax-payers for its support.
The expenditures for construction account to January i, 1896, have been
$667,976.93, and the total revenue from sale of the water up to that time was
§795,466.94 ; the water income for the first year being I91 1.39, and for 1895
$89,431.46. These figures well serve as an indication of the growth and
prosperity of our city.
The great influx of population to the commercial centers produces new
conditions ; new conditions demand new resources, and what served well
the requirements of our fathers does not satisfy the necessities of their
children. This is an era of progression and evolution, and the Mystic water-
system is destined to succumb to the ever onward march of progress and
will soon become a thing of the past. It has well played its part in the
prosperity of our city, but its safe capacity for supplying our homes with
water has already been exceeded, and its absorption into the greater and
more comprehensive scheme which the early future has in store for it will
not be regretted.
Already we hear the sounds of preparation and soon we shall receive
the full benefits of that gigantic enterprise undertaken by the Common
wealth to bring down the head waters of the Nashua to supply the necessi
ties of her chief city and its outlying municipalities.
Somerville looks forward to the realization of this grand scheme of
water-supply with almost as much anticipation as, in the earlier days, she
regarded the introduction of the Mystic water ; and this fact justifies a brief
outline of its important features.
The agitation for an increased water-supply for the district included
within a ten-mile limit of Boston led to the formation of the Metropolitan
Water Board, who have, by legislative enactment, acting in behalf of the
Commonwealth, formulated a plan to take the water of the south branch
of the Nashua river from a point in the town of Clinton, Mass., and convey
the same to the inhabitants of the so-called Metropolitan District, of which
Somerville is an important factor. The streams which unite in West Boyls
ton to form the south bran-ch of the Nashua river take their rise on the
easterly and southerly slopes of Mt. Wachusett, in the central part of the
State. The plan contemplates a storage reservoir in Clinton which will wipe
out the present location of a thriving town, four cotton-mills, four churches,
six schoolhouses and nearly seven miles of railroad, and will require 1,711
inhabitants to seek other homes.
The reservoir is to be nearly eight miles long by two miles maximum
width, with a shore line of over thirty-five miles, its surface of 6.56 square

2 50 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
miles forming the largest body of fresh water in Massachusetts. Its maxi
mum depth is 129 feet with an average of 46 feet, and it will contain 63,068,-
000,000 gallons, its capacity being greater than that of any existing reser
voir, and four times that of all the Boston water-works reservoirs combined.
The elevation of the level of full reservoir is 385 feet above the level of high
tide in Boston harbor. The entire cost of constructing this reservoir is
estimated to be about $9,000,000.
The dam to hold back this enormous body of water is to be constructed
of solid masonry across a narrow gorge ; it will be 1,250 feet in length, 129
feet in height above the level of the ground, 119^ feet in thickness at its
foundation and 19 feet thick at the water-level.
The water is to be conveyed from the reservoir through an aqueduct
eleven feet six inches wide by ten feet six inches high, with a daily deliver
ing capacity of 300,000,000 gallons, for a distance of 8.87 miles, nearly two
miles of which is in tunnel; thence by open channel 3.03 miles to Reservoir
No. 5 in Southboro, from which place it will flow through existing aqueducts
and reservoirs to the reservoir at Chestnut Hill. At this point the water
which is destined to supply the North Metropolitan District will be lifted by
three high-duty low-service pumps, each of 40,000,000 gallons daily capacity,
to a height of thirty to forty feet, whence it will flow through two forty-eight-
inch iron pipes to Spot Pond in Stoneham, which will serve as an equalizing
and distributing reservoir. On the line of one of these mains, near Spot
Pond, is to be erected a pumping station for the entire northern high-service
district, which will be equipped with high-duty engines of great capacity.
The reservoir to be used in connection with this branch of the system is to
be located in the Middlesex Fells, is to have its water-surface 270 feet above
high-tide level, and is to contain about 35,000,000 gallons. From this reser
voir the highlands of our city will derive their water-supply, and the lower
sections will be served direct by the forty-eight-inch pipes, one of which will
pass through Willow avenue in West Somerville and the other through
Union square and ^^'alnut street, on their way to Spot Pond.
Although the main desideratum is pure water in abundant quantity,
Somerville expects to enjoy from this system the subsidiary advantages of
increased pressure in its local system ; cutting off the expense of maintain
ing a local pumping station ; increase in water revenue due to our ability to
secure more favorable terms than are at present enjoyed ; and the removal
of a certain feeling of prejudice against our city which has prevailed to
some extent on account of the unfavorable quality of our present water-
supply. Somerville's interest in the Mystic system will cease bj' legislative enact
ment on the first day of January, 1898, and she will then become a consumer
in this great Metropolitan Water-System.

Isaac Story.

^*f

John Haskell Butler.

POLICE DEPARTMENT AND POLICE COURT.
by wilijam e. brighanl

CHAPTER XX.
The long-continued depredations of incendiaries led to the organization
of a regular police force in Somerville at a time when no householder could
lie down to sleep at night without an anxious fear that his own might be
the property which, without warning, would go up in flames, kindled by the
torches of a noted gang that had kept the town in terror for years. The
regular constabulary had performed police duty exclusively for more than
twenty years after the incorporation of the town, or until firemen and citi
zens were compelled to do their own watching to prevent incendiarism.
For the better regulation of the temporary watchmen thus informally
employed, a police board was organized, June 19, 1865, with Town Consta
ble Horace B. Runey as chairman and Jairus Mann, now city messenger, and
who has been a constable of Somerville since 1858, as secretary. The citi
zens of the town thought they had handled the liquor question quite sucess-
fully when, in 1863, the authorities had induced the forty-three liquor dealers
of Somerville to agree in writing to sell no more in violation of the law ; but
the burning of property necessitated more stringent measures, and the police
board urged the establishment of a permanent night-watch, stating that
" The officers of this town have been upon duty night after night, for weeks
together, and some of them night and day also, for many days in succession."
September 6, 1867, Robert R. Perry and, soon afterward, James Hanley
were appointed a permanent night-watch, to aid Captain Runey, and the
town appropriated, in place of its former annual " Selectmen's Incendiary
Fund " of $5,000, the sum of $2,700 for police maintenance. In 1868 Melville
C. Parkhurst was added to the night-force; two men were added in 1869
and in 1870 two more. About this time a day-patrol was established, and
in 1870 the town was redivided into seven police districts, a night-patrol
man was assigned to each, and the men were put upon fair salaries.
The force was reorganized in 1871 and enlarged to thirteen men, and a
set of rules for its control was adopted, emergency only having been its
governing factor before that year. Chairman Austin Belknap of the Board
of Selectmen meanwhile had kept his eye upon the work of Melville C.
Parkhurst, fresh as he was from the hardy experience of war, and having
tried that officer and found him efficient, the Board made him captain of
the watch. Upon the organization of the first city government, in 1872,
Captain Parkhurst was appointed to his present position of chief of police.
February i, 1873, Patrolman Robert R. Perry was made captain of police,
which rank he has held uninterruptedly to the present time, with the dis
tinction of being the oldest officer, in point of service, in the department.
The office of lieutenant was created in 1875 and filled by Joseph B. Alden
253

2 54 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
until his death in March, 1876, when Sergeant Samuel R. Dow was ap
pointed to the place and held it until the office was discontinued in 1877.
Charles C. Folsom was promoted to sergeant in 1876, and resigned, August
I, 1885, to become superintendent for the overseers of the poor, a position
he still fills. The four sergeants of the present force, with their dates of
appointment to the force and promotion are : Edward McGarr, April, 1871 —
September 1 , 1 884 ; Christopher C. Cavanagh, May 1 , 1 869 — August 1,1885;
Dennis Kelly, April, 1881 — May lo, 1892 ; Eugene A. Carter, March, 1884
— February 8, 1893.
In 1877, with a city's population of about 22,000, the police force was
reduced from twenty-eight to twent}'-four men and salaries were cut down.
The municipal police signal system was established for the use of the
department September 1, 1888. The emergency ambulance was introduced
in 1894, upon the completion of the Somerville Hospital, toward the build
ing fund of which the police force collectively had voluntarily contributed
the sum of $200. In 1895, acting under authority of Chapter 197 of the
Acts of 1895, entitled, "An Act to Provide for the Appointment of a Reserve
Police in the City of Somerville," Mayor William H. Hodgkins appointed
a reserve police force of eight men — the number of the reserve force is
limited to ten by the same law, and the vote of the city council has fixed
the number at eight — of whom three already, in accordance with the second
section of the Act, requiring the regular force to be recruited from the
reserve force, have been promoted to be regular patrolmen. September i,
1896, with a city's population of about 55,000, the force consisted of the
chief, one captain, four sergeants, thirty-six regular patrolmen and six re
serve officers.
The Somerville Police Relief Association, of which all the men upon
the regular force are members, was organized in 1872, and was incorporated
December 19, 1881. It is dependent for funds almost exclusively upon the
annual police ball, and has more than $20,000 in its treasury. Its officers
are: President, Robert .R. Perry; clerk, Eugene A. Carter; treasurer,
Melville C. Parkhurst.
Somerville, as town and city, has ever been comparatively free of crime,
chiefly because it is a residential place, where the sale of liquor is prohibited
by overwhelming public sentiment and the liquor laws are unceasingly
enforced. Until 1854 criminal cases were taken to Charlestown or to East
Cambridge for trial. From 1854 until the incorporation of the city in 1872,
cases were tried almost exclusively by Francis Tufts, acting as justice of
the peace, and, later, as trial justice, under the statute whereby certain
trial justices were designated and commissioned triennially, who exercised
authority and jurisdiction in criminal cases in any town in the county
where no Police Court was established. The first trials in Somerville, and
those for many years, were conducted in the office of Justice Tufts, on the
southwesterly corner of Medford and Washington streets. In 1861 the court
was removed to what had been the schoolhouse, on the southeasterly corner
of Prospect street and Somerville avenue. A Police Court was established
in the city April 23, 1872.

Melville C. Parkhurst.

Michael F. Farrell.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

257

The Hon. Isaac Story, who is still in office, was appointed standing
justice, and Lebbeus Stetson was elected clerk. Clerk Stetson was suc
ceeded in 1882 by the present incumbent, Herbert C. Chapin. .\ room in
the city hall was used for the sessions of the court until the completion of
the fine brick and granite police building on Bow street in 1875. This
structure, erected at a cost of about $50,000, furnished, was designed
especially for the accommodation of the Police Department, the Police
Court, the Somerville Light Infantry and the Overseers of the Poor. It
contains also a large hall for ward and city purposes.

POLICE STATION, BOW STREET.

The venerable brick engine-house, on the corner of Prospect and Wash
ington streets, was used as a lockup until 1873, before which time Cambridge
accommodated Somerville's overflow of criminals ; and from that time until
the police building was finished the present water-works office, corner of
Prospect street and Somerville avenue, was used. >
The Somerville police department is, in many respects, a model organ
ization. While the city has never pursued the policy, common in many
other cities and towns, of maintaining one patrolman to every one thousand
inhabitants, the force as constituted is reasonably effective, and enjoys the
confidence and good will of the citizens.

THE PUBLIC LIBRARY.
BY JOHN S. HAYES.

CHAPTER XXL
The Somerville Public Library deserves a prominent place in any
recognition of the Somerville of to-day. Its inception, its steady growth,
the fidelity of those to whom its interests have been committed, and its wide
and increased usefulness, should have more than ordinary attention.
It cannot be disputed that to a very large degree a public library is the
focus-point of the intelligence of a community. Of course its value must
depend upon the character of its contents and the methods employed to
bring it into touch with all classes of people. A public library is not meant
for those of exceptional culture only, nor must it merely meet the uncultured
taste of those whose lack of experience would make them satisfied with
works of a weak if not vicious character. It is for the steady, if necessary,
the slow uplifting of those who need, in every station in life, that enlighten
ment of mind which will make them appreciate the ennobling resources of
mental culture, refinement, and ambition. From the very first the Public
Library of Somerville has come under good guardianship and direction.
The one who took the earliest and most active interest in its establish
ment was Edward E. Edgerly. He held a position as president of the
Somerville High School Association which of itself was indicative of the
esteem in which he was held by those interested with him in the improve
ment of children and youth. It was unfortunate. that his sickness and death
prevented the maturing of his plans, but he achieved the success of in
spiring others with the salutary importance of the project he had so per
sistently and strenuously advocated. Those who were associated with him
did not receive his ideas in fallow minds or in unsympathetic hearts. On
the contrary, at the suggestion of the Association of which he had been
President, the selectmen and school committee of the town were invited to
co-operate in taking measures for the formation of a library. This propo
sition received the immediate attention of the selectmen. A joint committee
was formed, consisting of Austin Belknap, Horace Haskins, and Francis
Houghton, of the board of selectmen, and Edward C. Booth, Henry M.
Brown and George S. Littlefield of the High School Association. This was
in the year 1869. The same committee was reappointed in March, 1870,
and prepared and submitted a plan for the proposed library, and presented
the names of the following well-known citizens as a Board of Trustees :

John S. Hayes.

Somerville Public Library.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 26 1
Austin Belknap, Henry M. Brown, Samuel A. Carlton, Horace P. Hemen-
way, Oren S. Knapp, John P. Marshall, Edwin Mills, Frank H. Raymond
and Columbus Tyler.
The town, however, at its April meeting in 1871, while voting " That a
free public library be established," did not ratify the action of the committee,
but instead appointed a committee "to report a plan for operating the
same." This committee consisted of the above mentioned citizens, and
Russell H. Conwell, Joshua H. Davis, Samuel C. Hunt, George S. Littlefield,
Rev. Charles Lowe, Isaac Pitman, and Quincy A. Vinal. Subsequently
there was a change made in the composition of the committee. Rev. Charles
Lowe and Prof. John P. MarshaU being absent in Europe, and so unable to
serve. Rev. Geo. W. Durell and John R. Poor were chosen to fill the va
cancies. It is unnecessary to follow in minute detail the work done by the com
mittee. They reported in print, and submitted a code of by-laws, sub
stantially the same as those now in force, and the citizens in town meeting
assembled adopted their recommendations, November 7, 1871.
The change of town government to that of a city necessitated some
delay. But at a meeting of the city council held October 21, 1872, a board
of trustees consisting of nine members was elected. This board organ
ized November 14, and elected Isaac Pitman librarian.
The library opened for the delivery of books to the public May i,
1873, in a small room on the lower floor of the city hall. It had a list of
23 84 volumes. Of that number 715 volumes were donated by thirty-six
public-spirited citizens.. From that time until the present, the library has
been wholly sustained by the yearly appropriations made by the city coun
cil, and the dog-licenses, which are yearly turned over to the library, it hav
ing received only $102.80 in gifts. The aggregate amount of the annual
appropriations and dog-licenses, during the existence of the library, is
.Sin. 355. 34^
Mr. Pitman continued as librarian, giving valuable help, without money
and without price, until June i, 1875, when he resigned, and his valuable
assistant. Miss H. A. Adams, was elected to his place, which she acceptably
filled for eighteen years. During her term of service the number of books
increased to about 25,000, and the yearly circulation to 93,000. In July, 1893,
the present incumbent, John S. Hayes, took charge of the library.
It was evident to the board of trustees that the increasing needs of
the library consequent upon the enlarged population of the city, and the
more general use of the library books, demanded better accommodations,
and more modern methods. The present library building was erected in
1884-5, at a cost of $28,335.45 exclusive of land, and presumably was deemed
sufficiently capacious for all prospective needs; yet within ten 3'ears it had
been outgrown in every department, but particularly in shelf-room for
books, and rooms for consultation and study.
By the generous action of the city government, the trustees were en
abled in 1895 to remove the book-cases and erect a steel book-stack, thus

262 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
enabling them to more than double the book-holding capacity of the stack-
room. Other changes were made, adding very much to the usefulness of
the library for those who desired to consult its resources. A reference
room was provided, thus making the books of this department more aces-
sible. One room has been set apart for works on our state and town his
tories, and the volumes which now line its walls make a notable beginning for
a department of .Americana ; and numerous valuable art-books have been
added, and so far as was deemed justifiable in view of the limited funds at
the disposal of the trustees, foreign books, mostly in general literature, have
also found a place within the' library.
And still the work goes on. There is an increasing use of the books now
held in the library catalogue, and a very urgent need for more. This is
indicated by the fact that, having a library of less than 34,000 volumes, and
a city population of over 54,000, and rapidly increasing, the yearly circulation
has risen to 130,000, — which is equivalent to each volume in the library
being circulated four times each year ; while the size of the library is in
dicated by the statement that there is less than two-thirds of a book to each
inhabitant. It will thus be seen that our library is very small in proportion
to the size of the city, while its circulation is comparatively large, — thus
making it a question of serious consideration how soon there can be had, at
least, a list of 100,000 books in the library.
It is the policy of the trustees to bring the resources of the library as
close to the homes of the city as possible. With this end in view, sub-agencies
have been located in East Somerville and West Somerville, and books are
regularly delivered at the several large school buildings, for the use of
teachers and pupils, and thus the library is kept in touch with the younger
portion of the community.
In order to make the library more accessible, a new finding-list was
printed about one year ago, after a re-classification of all books in the library,
at an expense of $4,344. In order to give information as to new books, or
books bearing on special topics, a monthly bulletin for free distribution has
been issued, and frequent communications printed in the local press, which
has very cordially seconded the efforts which have been industriously made
by those in charge of the library.
The trustees have always given patient thought and valuable time,
voluntarily and gratuitously, sometimes in much perplexity, to promoting
the interests of the institution committed to their guardianship. The high
character of the books selected and placed upon the shelves testifies to their
faithfulness, and indicates that they fully appreciate the responsibilities
placed upon them ; and it is evident that the library has been exceedingly
fortunate in having the services of able and devoted men and women in its
organization, management, and administration. It has been built up and
carried forward with no false step or retrograde movement, from its small
beginning in a little room, until it has quite outgrown the beautiful building
it now occupies, and it seeks to-day new opportunities of usefulness, even
in advance of public requirements.

Charles S. Lincoln.

Christopher E. Rymes.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 265
Judging from its past growth, and from its present influence, it is by no
means unreasonable to expect that the public library will be an increasing
power for good in the flourishing, intelligent, and beautiful city of Somer
ville. The interest taken in the library since its beginning, and the use made
of it, may be imperfectly indicated by the following brief citation of figures :
In 1873, as has been already stated, the number of books in the library
was 2,384; the circulation that year was 18,047 volumes. Two years later,
that is, in 1875, there had been placed in the library 5,235 books, and the
circulation was 39,025. In 1880, 8,614 books, 67,894 circulation; in 1885,
12,788 books, 65,450 circulation ; in 1890,20,112 books, 95,127 circulation;
in 1894, 27,729 books, 106,341 circulation; and in 1896, up to November 1,
36,642 books, and a circulation of 116,786. The circulation for the entire
year will probably exceed 130,000 volumes. The number of books worn out,
lost and discarded, up to the present time, has been 2,754, making the num
ber of volumes in the library about 34,000. The total circulation has been
1,727,038 volumes.
The library and reading-room are open every day (Sundays and legal
holidays excepted) from 9 a. m. to 6 p. m ; Wednesdays and Saturdays until
9 p. M. The reference room is open from 1.30 p. M.to 5.30 p. m. Books are
delivered and collected at the several large grammar schools as frequently
as the demand may require.
Any resident of Somerville, over fourteen years of age, is entitled to
the use of the library by signing the proper application, and presenting a
written recommendation that he is a suitable person to use the library,
signed by two citizens of Somerville.
Any person visiting the library for the purpose of literary or scientific
investigation may temporarily receive the benefits of the reading-room and
the use of the books within the library building.
Special privileges are granted professional persons, teachers, authors,
and special students requiring the use of more than one book at a time.
It is hoped that those who make use of the library will have no hesi
tation in consulting the librarians and assistants in all matters upon which
information is needed. Inquiries regarding special subjects of study are
always invited, and will receive careful attention. Information slips can be
obtained at the desk. Organization.
Trustees. — Charles S. Lincoln, president, J. Henry Flitner, Christo
pher E. Rymes, Charles H. Brown, Elijah C. Clark, John B. Viall, Charles
A. West, J. Frank Wellington, Charles W. Sawyer; John S. Hayes, secre
tary. Library Staff. — John S. Hayes, librarian ; Clara L. Bidwell, assistant
librarian ; Anna L. Stone and Mary J. Warren, assistants ; F. Mabel Nor-
cross, cataloguer; Esther M. Mayhew, Charles A. Wiggin and Henry N.
Sanborn, attendants; Charles A. Southwick, janitor.

J. Frank Wellington.

•^i*:

i/-'

Charles W. Sawyer.

James R. Hopkins.

THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.
BY \VILLL\M E. brigham.

CHAPTER XXII.

Fro.m 1842, when all Somerville was a quiet farming country, dates the
history of the Somerville Fire Department. For nearly fifty years a curious
little machine had been in service in Charlestown proper, a " tub " hand
engine. Mystic No. 6 by name. Its principal mechanism consisted of an
oblong wooden tank sheathed with metal, pistons which worked perpendi
cularly, and handsome lancewood brakes. It could not " draught " water,
and all it threw was first poured into it from buckets — hence its denomina
tion " tub."
In 1838, four years before Somerville was set off as a town, the Charles
town authorities assigned this engine to duty in Charlestown's big back
yard, as Somerville then was, and a plain two-story wooden engine-house
with cupola was built for it on the corner of Washington and Prospect
streets, at a cost of $400. In this the engine was placed, and a small bell was
hung in the cupola. For years, even after the Somerville company was or
ganized, in 1842, an alarm of fire could be rung only b}' means of this bell.
For years, also, according to a law then in force, every man in town was re
quired to hang two buckets, usually of leather and painted, in his front hall,
and when an alarm was sounded it was his duty to seize those buckets,
hurry to the fire and range in line with others to assist in passing water from
well or cistern to the men who worked the engine.
August 6, 1838, the selectmen appointed Benjamin F. Ricker, Hiram
Allen, Clark Bennett, Solomon Story, James Underwood, Nathan Tufts,
Nathan Tufts, Jr., David A. Sanborn, William Bonner, John Runey, Jr.,
True Morrill, Henry A. Ireland, Charles Miller, Jerome Thorp, Joshua
Rand, Levi Orcutt, Daniel Stone, Joseph Clark, Robert Vinal, William
Munroe, ^\'illiam Parker, Nathan Blodgett, Benjamin Hadley, Benjamin
Hadley, Jr., Abram Welch, Oliver Tufts, Samuel T. Frost, Asa Richards,
Dustin N. Smith, Oscar Bennett, Robert Sanborn, Nathaniel Williams,
John Giles, Caleb Harrington and Charles ^^'entworth, "to be engineers
and firemen constituting a new company designated as Engine Company
Xo. 6, attached to Engine 6, located near Milk Row in said Charlestown."
The Charles Miller mentioned in the foregoing was the man who named
Somerville. The records fail to give the list of officers of the original
"Mystic 6" company. The first officers mentioned were in 1840, when
269

2 70 SOMERVILLE, P.IST AND PRESENT.
John Runey, Jr., was foreman : Solomon Story, assistant foreman ; Jerome
Thorp, second assistant ; and Robert A. Vinal, clerk and treasurer. In 1839
Hiram Allen had been appointed an assistant engineer, and was, it is stated,
the only representative the Somerville district ever had upon the Charles
town board of fire engineers. In 1842, when the town was set off, old Mys
tic 6 was left as a legacy to Somerville, and the engine's valuation, $50, was
entered upon the town records. This engine was Somerville's only fire
apparatus until 1850; in 1856, by vote of the town, Abram Welch was
authorized to sell the venerable relic, which he did for $30, and it was taken
to East Boston and broken up for old junk. The small hand bell which
came with it from Charlestown is now in possession of Chief Hopkins at
the central fire station. It bears the inscription : —
" Presented to Company No. 7 by Mr. John B. Parker."
The salary of the firemen, all volunteers, was $1.50 each per annum,
paid by the abatement of the poll tax. Fires were infrequent, however, and in
a short time the company disbanded ; and from that time until 1850 the engine
was manned sometimes by a regularly organized company and sometimes
by volunteers. In 1846 the " Boys' Company," so called, because composed
of young men from 16 to 20 years old, was organized. According to the
recollection of some of its members, Levi Orcutt was foreman, David A.
Sanborn, Jr., assistant foreman, and J. Manley Clark, clerk. Among other
members were Quincy A. Vinal, Robert A. Vinal, Horace B. Runey,
George W. Fillebrown, Carlton Hawkins, "Jimmy" Williams (a popular
colored man), George Ambrose Clark, Albert L. Sanborn, Daniel Sanborn,
Henry Munroe, Henry Thorpe, and Quincy Harrington.
In 1850 began what may be termed the romantic days of the department
which continued for fifteen years, during which time the firemen as such
were closely identified with the social life of the town. November 12, 1849,
after repeated attempts at like action, the town appropriated $1,438.75 for
the purchase of a "good and sufficient fire engine." It arrived about Jan
uary I, 1850, and was styled " Somerville No. i." It was a first-class mod
ern suction machine, one of the best ever made by the celebrated Hunne
man & Co. of Roxbury, and had six and a half inch cylinders, folding
brakes and all the latest improvements. January 7, 1850, the selectmen
appointed the following board of fire engineers : Nathan Tufts, Jr., Gard
ner T. Ring, George O. Brastow, John B. Osgood, and Abram Welch. Mr.
Welch declining to serve, Hiram Allen was appointed in his place. Jan
uary 15, the board organized by the choice of Nathan Tufts, Jr., as chief
engineer, and George O. Brastow,. clerk. More than fifty men at once en
rolled in the company, and soon it was one of the leading and most popular
organizations in town. Following is the original roster of Somerville En
gine Company No. 1, as taken from a poster in the possession of Chief
Hopkins, and which is believed to be the only one in existence : —
D. A. Marrett, Lorenzo Burbank, Rufus Littlefield, Seward Dodge,
Caleb Kingman, Jairus Mann, L. Arnold, George W. Bridgman, George
A. Clark, Samuel Hamblin, George W. Hadley, David Kenrick, John

David A. Sanborn.

Residence of Richard H. Sturtevant, 31 Walnut Street.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 273
Ackers, David Bonner, Granville Leland, Jonas Trefren, Francis Tufts,
Levi Orcutt, Jr., W. S. Leland, Lewis C. Edgerly, David A. Sanborn,
Nathaniel K. Hammond, Joseph Q. Twombly, Calvin Horton, Horace B.
Runey, J. Runej-, George H. Foster, John B. Osgood, Benjamin Randall,
Benjamin Hamilton, B. F. Darling, George Holton, J. Rice, Edward J.
Shattuck, Lewis Horton, J. Bachelder, Benjamin Hadley, Isaac F. Shepard,
Francis J. ^\'illiams, John Ireland, Daniel A. Hartwell, James Wiggins,
James M. Stevens, M. E. Benjamin, E. G. Kenrick, S. C. Bradshaw, Jr.,
Frederick W. Hannaford, ^^'illiam G. Emery, Samuel H. Gooding, Shepard
Robinson, Joseph Pierce, Jr., George S. Fogg, W. B. Sisson, Franklin D.
Snow, James Williams, George W. Trefren.
The first fire to which the department was called was the burning of
Jotham Johnson's barn on the " Ireland rangeway," off School street toward
Union square.
In 1853 the company demanded a raise of pay from $1.50 a year to $1.00
a month, that an entertainment fund might be, established. The selectmen
hesitated. The men reeled up the hose and, figuratively speaking, walked
out. In course of time the selectmen yielded and, December 5, 1854, this
pioneer strike was ended. The company, as a matter of fact, suffered one
or two other disbandments, during all of which, however, the men stood as
ready for service, in case of emergency, as if their names had still been car
ried upon the pa3--roll of the town.
An event which attracted the excited attention of firemen all over the
State, and in which the Somerville company played one of the two important
parts, took place Fast Day, 1852. Somerville One, a Hunneman, and Niagara
3 of East Cambridge, a Thayer engine, had long been rivals, and at last
Somerville sent a formal challenge to Cambridge. The fact of the approach
ing contest became noised abroad, and on the day of the trial several thou
sand persons, residents of neighboring places and firemen from all over the
State, gathered on Broadway, Cambridge. The Cambridge Brass Band
was hired, all the church bells were rung, and the excitement was intense.
The cylinder of Niagara was of about the same size as that of Somerville, but
of shorter stroke. Niagara lowered Somerville's water nine and one-quarter
inches in the first trial and " washed " her once in the second. At the ex
piration of time in the second trial the water in Somerville was four inches
from the top of the tub. In the third trial, "tub and tub,'' Niagara
" sucked " Somerville twice, and at the expiration of time the water in Niag
ara was twelve and a half inches from the top of the tub, and in Somer
ville's, five and a half inches. Captain B. F. Darling was in command of
Somerville 1, and Captain Alexander Eraser of Niagara 3.
As a matter of history, also, Somerville One engaged in many other ex
citing contests of a like nature, in which she was as often victorious as de
feated. The first and only board of fire wards for the town, appointed May 4,
1842, consisted of Robert G. Tenney, Hiram Hackett and WiUiam A.
Russell, who served until the appointment of the board of engineers in
i8i;o.

2 74 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
December 24, 1855, the old engine-house was destroyed by fire, although
the engine with other contents was saved, and J. Q. Twombly's paint-shop
was used until 1856, when the town, at a cost of $5,000, erected the substan
tial brick building on the corner of Washington and Prospect streets ; in
1871 the handsome house with the tower, on the corner of Highland avenue
and Walnut street, was erected.
Before leaving the days of the hand-engine it is pleasant to record one
or two of the many incidents illustrative of the patriotism and paternal
liberality of the firemen of that time, and of their correlation to the interests
of the town. For years the upper room in the little engine-house and
Franklin hall, next it, on the site of the present Holmes' store, were much
used for public gatherings of all kinds, of which none, perhaps, were more
popular with the firemen than the series of religious services in charge of
Rev. Charles Baker. When " Father " Baker wished to build a church
edifice, in 1857-8, he said : "Well, boj's, what are you going to do to help
us .' " The answer was immediate and satisfactory ; and it was said of the
members of Somerville Engine Company No. i, that their assistance did
much toward the erection of the first edifice built by the First M. E. Church
in Somerville — now the property of the St. Joseph's Society, on Webster
avenue. The first flagstaff in town, long a landmark, and later replaced,
was put up by the firemen in Union square in 1853.
The war record of Somerville 1 Engine Company was noteworthy.
Immediately following the bombardment of Fort Sumter several of its
members, including James R. Hopkins, now chief, Albert Caswell, F. R.
Kinsley, Joseph J. Giles, John H. Hodgdon, Frank Moore and Henry
Carr, enlisted in the Somerville Light Infantry and went to the front ; and
during the war the company contributed more than .$800 to assist in placing
Somerville's soldiers in the field and caring for their families at home.
It was fifteen years from the purchase of the hand-engine to the organ
ization of the first hose-company. In 1865 David A. Sanborn and Jairus
Mann were sent by the town to New York to select a hand hose-carriage.
In Troy they chose one bearing upon the front the words, " John E. Wool,"
and on the back, " We Battle with the Elements." It was taken to East
Somerville and placed in a shed, and later removed to the two-story wooden
house on Webster street, between Glen and Rush streets, torn down in the
fall of 1896 to allow the erection upon that site of the Sanford Hanscom
schoolhouse. " Liberty Hose Company No. i " was at once organized, in
June, 1865, as follows : Alfred Horton, foreman ; George W. Bean, assistant
foreman ; James R. Hopkins, clerk; James Merritt, treasurer; James Bean,
L. Horton, D. P. Horton, W. E. Dickson, Jabez P. Dill, A. F. Locke, Seth
Hatch, James Galletly, R. G. Wentworth, William Bean, J. D. Lovering,
Elkanah Crosby, R. D. Hall, James Porter, E. A. Dickson and Albert
Abbott. July 9, 1866, the company disbanded, owing to internal dissen
sions, but a new company was formed within a few days, taking the name
of " John E. Wool." In the fall of 1867 the carriage was remodeled and re
painted : on one reelhead was a representation of the burning of the Frank-

Bernard W. Lawrence.

Residence of Bernard W. Lawrence, 289 Highland Ave.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 277
lin Street Congregational Church, in 1867, and on the other was placed a
fine carving of a wreath, horn of plenty, etc., inclosing a picture of the burn
ing of the armory of the Prescott Light Guards of Charlestown, with the
machine coming out of its house. A horse-carriage superseded the " Gen.
John E. Wool" in 1873, and the hand-carriage, which had cost $600, was
sold to the town of Everett for S400 and thence went out of service and was
returned to its original company in Troy. Thomas H. Daley, now captain
of Hose I, was the first driver of a horse hose-carriage in the department,
and has continued as driver to the present time. Differences with the en
gineers led to a disbandment of the company in 1874, but another company
was organized immediately.
The fire department was fast becoming one of the great wheels of the
municipal machinery. March 30, 1866, the volunteer S3'stem was abolished,
and May 26, 1866, a steam fire-engine, the first and one of the best that
Hunneman & Co. built, arrived, and the department was reorganized. A
working force of engineers, drivers and firemen was emploj'ed permanently.
The new steamer company, recruited chiefly from the old hand-engine com
pany, was composed as follows : Frank O. Hudson, foreman ; Albert Cas
well, assistant foreman ; Samuel S. Hudson, clerk; \\'. A. Burbank, Rufus
Lamkin, Melvin B. Ricker, F. D. Snow, hosemen ; H. A. \\'hiting, engineer ;
Henry A. Byrnes, stoker ; Charles Trull, driver. The only muster this
company ever attended was at Fitchburg, October 11, 1871, when, twent)--five
engines contesting, Somerville stood fifth, with a horizontal record of 212
feet, 8 inches, through 200 feet of hose. The first Silsby engine was bought
in 1873. Henry A. Byrnes and William A. Burbank, promoted to engineer
and fireman in 1867, have held their positions nearly thirty years, being still
in service. Winter Hill Hose Company No. 2, originally named " Carlton," was
organized December i, 1869. With a two-wheeled carriage and a jumper it
occupied humble wooden quarters until 1872-3, when its present well ap
pointed brick house on Marshall street was erected, a new carriage was
bought, and horses were secured to drag it.
Since 1867 an independent company, having for its officers Caleb A.
Page, Jarvis A. Bucknam and Fred A. \\'hite, had run with the hook and
ladder truck, bought in 1863 but never formally manned. May 2, 1870, the
company having disbanded some time before, George W. Bean was re
quested to recruit a regular company, which, in August, was officially rec
ognized and organized with George W. Bean, foreman ; Albert Caswell,
assistant foreman ; and John ^^^ Byrnes, clerk. It was styled " Prescott,"
after Col. Prescott of Bunker Hill fame. In 1874, when a new truck was
bought, the name was changed to Robert A. Vinal Hook and Ladder Com
pany No. I, Chief James R. Hopkins having declined to allow it to be
named for himself.
In June, 1871, the graceful engine-house upon Central Hill, now aban-
donedj was completed, and the steamer was transferred thither from Union
square. Hose 3 company was organized at once to fill the place left vacant,

278 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
and the truck was transferred from its shed to the same building. This
company was named after George H. Foster, foreman of " Somerville One "
from 1854 to 1 861, and who, "as a hand-engine commander, had no superior
and but few equals." He served also as an engineer until his death, No
vember 23, 1864, and his funeral was one of the largest attended ever held
in Somerville. George O. Brastow Hose Company No. 4 was organized November 12,
1873, and went at once into its present building, corner of Highland avenue
and Grove street, at the completion of which all the apparatus in the city
was equipped with horses. In 1884 a combined hose-reel and a protective
wagon replaced Hose 4's carriage. It was intended to use rubber covers to
protect goods at fires, but as the insurance companies would not furnish
the covers the idea was abandoned, and in 1887 two 40-gallon Babcock
chemical tanks replaced the box intended for the covers. This was designed
by Chief Hopkins and, according to H. H. Easterbrook, to whose pains
taking sketch of the Somerville fire department this writer is indebted for
several matters of detail, was probably the first combined apparatus of that
kind in the country. A Silsby steam-engine was placed in the station in
1890, and the company changed from a hose to an engine company. Hose
5, whose model brick station is on Somerville avenue at Lowell street, was
organized August 15, 1889.
The commodious and substantial Central Fire Station, near the junc
tion of Medford street and Highland avenue, was erected in 1894, where
upon the old engine-house on Highland avenue and Walnut street was
abandoned. The new station is thoroughly practical in plan and appoint
ments, and has no superior in the State. It shelters now Engine i and hose
wagon and the new chemical engine A, and includes accommodations also
for a combined aerial-ladder truck and water-tower when it may be found
necessary. The second floor is given up to sleeping rooms, a recreation
room, hayloft, workroom, and the chief's quarters. The third floor is used
exclusively as the headquarters of the fire-alarm telegraph system. In 1894,
also, a building sufficiently commodious for two pieces of apparatus was
erected on Highland avenue near Cedar street. A truck was bought and
placed therein, and Hook and Ladder Company No. 2 was organized to op
erate it.
In 1896 a new fire station, designed to accommodate three pieces of
apparatus, was erected at the corner of Broadway and Cross street. To
this building Hose Company No. i was transferred from the old wooden
building on Webster street and reorganized into an engine company. Re
lief engine No. 2 was placed in its charge, and this company is now known
as Engine Company No. 2.
In June, 1874, the Gamewell fire-alarm telegraph system was intro
duced, and in 1877, under special act of the legislature, the force was reor
ganized, the board of engineers was abolished, and the power to appoint
and remove vested in the mayor and board of aldermen. The office of as
sistant chief was also created, and since that time has been efficiently filled
by Captain Nathaniel C. Barker. The men were uniformed in 1885.

/.v<1 h I I ^^ L.
- %'J

\>v1 I' I I
1

J n

m''lSi^^ ,^\ h

1 ti h

4i

-'-&' -£!£_!»

j Kb

^' ic : -]l

If

J J"

i"T|. ':s ^

IZ''-.

ty )

¦*
A

,.*.¦¦;

it J n

*^"

Central Fire Station, at junction of Medford Street and Highland Ave.

2 8o

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

It is possible to speak only in the highest terms of the efficiency of the
Somerville Fire Department and of the ability and popularity of its veteran
chief, James R. Hopkins, as fireman and man. The city has dealt very
liberally with the department, and there is not its superior in the State.
A valuable table showing the organization of the Board of Fire Engi
neers from 1850 to the present time is as follows : —

Year.

185018511852
1853 1854
1855 1S5618571858
1859i860
i86c 18621S631864186518661867

18701871
1872 18731874
187s 1876
1877 to
i8g6

Chief.

Nathan Tufts, Jr.
Abram Welch.
Kobert A, Vinal.
John Runey.
Sam'l H Gooding.
D. A. Sanborn, Jr.

James R. Hopkins.

Clerk.

George O. Brastow.
Sam'l H. Gooding.
John Runey.
Sam'l H. Goodmg.
Charles Waldron.
Samuel A. Tuttle,
D. A. Sanborn, Jr.
Jairus Mann.
Sam'l H. Gooding.
Henry A. Angier.
Gardner W. Ring.

1st Assistant.

Gardner T. Ring.
Levi Orcutt.
Chas. E. Gilman.
Charles Waldron.
John Runey.
Geo. A. Sanborn.

Geo. H. Foster.
Sam'l H. Gooding.
Henry A. Angier.
George W. Bean.
Theo. C. Joslyn.
Nath'l C. Barker.

John B. Osgood.
Abram Welch.
Carl'n Hawkins.
Benj. Randall.

G. W. Trefren.
Geo. Cutter.

F. D. Snow.
Theo. C. Joslyn.
A. Caswell.

3d Assistant.

Hiram Allen.
John Runey.

Albert Horton.
/. R. Hopkins.

Theo. C. Joslyn,
A. Caswell.
S. H. Stevens.

East Somerville Baptist Church,
Perkins Street, opposite Pinckney.

HISTORY OF THE CHURCHES.

CHAPTER XXIII.
EAST SOMERVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH.
By Rev. Or^'ille Coats.
The East Somerville Baptist Church was organized March 19, 1890.
Its constituent members were nearly all originally members of the Perkins
Street Baptist Church. Its first pastor was Rev. C. L. Rhoades, who served
the church from its organization until September 25, 1892. During this
period the membership increased from 143 to 274, and a Sunday-school of
over five hundred was gathered. The first services of the church were held
in Hadley Hall on Broadway, afterward in the Flint-street Methodist
church, and since July 25, 1890, in the present edifice on Perkins street op
posite Pinckney. The original officers were : deacons, Samuel Cutler, Hiram
N. Stearns and Elbridge A. Towle ; clerk, Arthur C. Hill ; treasurer,
Charles F. Powers ; collector, Wm. A. Corson. One of the remarkable
features of the early history of the church was the work among children
inaugurated and carried on by Pastor Rhoades. Hundreds of boys and
girls were gathered every Saturday evening, and instructed by means of
lectures and stereopticon pictures, many of whom became permanently
connected with the Sunday-school and the church. The officers of the
Sunday-school at its organization were : superintendent, William H. Good-
speed ; assistant superintendent, L. Herbert Huntley ; secretary, William
B. Wilson; treasurer, W. T. Kincaid. May i, 1891, William H. Goodspeed
and Herman D. Osgood were elected deacons. The Baptist Young Peo
ple's Union was formed September 29, 1891, and Charles H. Johnquest was
elected its first president.
The church was without a pastor from September 25, 1892, until March
5, 1893, when the present pastor. Rev. Orville Coats, began his work.
The church, though small in numbers, has made a good record by its
interest in missions, general evangelization and benevolence. During the
six and a half years of its existence it has given 111,529.30 for benevolent
objects, and raised for all purposes $43,898.27. Present membership is 298.
Church officers : pastor. Rev. Orville Coats ; deacons, Samuel Cutler,
Hiram N. Stearns, Wm. H. Goodspeed and Herman D. Osgood; clerk,
Charles N. Stockbridge ; treasurer, Frank E. Cutler; collector, C. A.
Littlefield ;. assistant collector, I. F. Pierce ; Sunday-school superinten
dent, L. Herbert Huntley ; assistant superintendent, William B. Wilson ;
secretary, Wm. S. McLean ; treasurer, Walter E. Horton. Preaching
services are held on Sunday at 10.30 a.m. and 7.30 p.m. Sunday-school
meets at noon. 2S2

Justin D. Fulton, D. D.
Pastor First Baptist Church.

lijIl'SlP"' w

^' .*«':*

anil mt '¦'<»*><'!»¦

First Baptist Church, Spring Hill.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .IND PRESENT. 285
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH.
By Rev. Justin D. Fulto.x, D.D.
The First Baptist Church in Somerville was organized December 30,
1852, with eleven men and twenty women. A council was called to recog
nize the company as a regular Baptist church, twenty-two churches being
represented. On motion of Rev. Rollin H. Neal, D.D., the council unani
mously voted to recognize this as "The First Baptist Church in Somerville,''
which recognition was completed in a public service the same evening.
Rev. Daniel W. Faunce served them as pastor from July 14, 1853, to Sep
tember I, 1854. He was followed by George G. Fairbanks, March 21, 1855,
to June 30, 1866 ; Lewis B. Hibbard, February 21, 1867, to February 2s, 1868 ;
John D. Sweet, May 4, 1868, to August 9, 1869 ; Charles M. Smith, February
20, 1870, to March 31, 1885 ; Fenner B. Dickinson, October i, 18S5, to No
vember 2, 1886; FrankO. Cunningham, April 26, 1887, to September i, 1892;
Luther B. Plumer, February 4, 1893, to September 4, 1894; and Justin D.
Fulton, D.D., November 20, 1894, to the present time. The church wor
shipped in the Beech-street Chapel from the date of its organization till
March 2, 1873, when they entered their present place of worship on Belmont
street. This building was formally dedicated June 12, 1873, and has been
without a mortgage or incumbrance since .\pril, 1SS3. It is a comfortable,
commodious and attractive house of worship.
The church has from the first maintained a character of uncompromis
ing devotion to the proclamation of the gospel of Christ, and believing
that the Baptist church founded by Christ and the apostles in Jerusalem
furnishes the model for the highest and freest religious life, consistency has
made the church the stalwart champion of Baptist principles, which enter
so largely into the religious life of the nation. The position maintained by
this church on the temperance question has helped keep Somerville a no-
license city, and has furnished from its membership some of the ablest
advocates and the most indefatigable workers for clean citizenship in the
city. The calling of its present pastor as the lover of Roman Catholics, and
their co-operation with him in the great work to which he has given his
heart, giving him four days of each week to prosecute the work in the
regions beyond, evidences their faith in the needs of the country and the
remedial power furnished by the gospel which is the present and the future
hope of the country.
The Sabbath School was organized in 1853, and was made a branch
of church work by formal action, April 10, 1889. Its superintendents have
been men of God, and its teachers, chosen from the church, are thoroughly
in sympathy with the spirit and purposes of the gospel which is being
sounded out from the pulpit.
The Baptist Young People's Union furnishes the young people an or
ganization where Baptist sentiments find a home, and brings the young
people as well as the church into association with masses of young Baptists
that are making their influence felt in all parts of the land.

2 86 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
The Woman's Foreign Mission Circle was organized April lo, 1873.
Mrs. Elizabeth B. Story was its first president, and she filled the office with
exceptional acceptance till her death, October 23, 1888. In 1885 a Woman's
Home Mission Circle was formed, with Mrs. S. P. Wilcox for president,
but in 1889 it was thought best to consolidate the two, having one organi
zation with two treasurers. The organization was then known as the
Woman's Mission Circle. There is a children's meeting, held on Friday
afternoons at 4 p. m. under the direction of the B. Y. P. U., which is accom
plishing great good. The church is in the enjoyment of great prosperity, as
is indicated by the flourishing Sabbath-school and large congregations which
wait upon the ministry of the word, for all of which there is devout thank
fulness.
RANDALL MEMORIAL FREE BAPTIST CHURCH.
By Rev. Edwin P. Moulton.
The Randall Memorial Free Baptist Church was organized July 21,
1873, as the Freewill Baptist Mission Church of Charlestown, with twenty-
three members. For about one year meetings were held in a hall on Main
street, Charlestown. October, 1874, they moved to Broadway Hall, East
Somerville, and in June, 1879, to a larger hall near by. There they remained
until April, 1882, when they moved into the chapel they now occupy. A lot
has been purchased on New Cross street, and an edifice, a cut of which ac
companies this account, is to be erected upon it. This church has always
been small in numbers, but has been self-supporting. About three hundred
and fifty persons have united with it since its organization, and the present
resident membership is one hundred and eight. This church has had six
pastors : Rev. James Rand, August, 1S73, to January, 1879 i Rev. A. T. Hill-
man, December, 1882, to September, 1883 ; Rev. James Boyd, February, 1884,
to September, 1884 ; Rev. C. S. Frost, January, 1886, to April, 1887 ; Rev. J.
H. Yeoman, May, 1887, to October, 1888 ; and Rev. Edwin P. Moulton, the
present pastor, who commenced his labors in November, 1888. Though
comparatively small, this- church has had many excellent men and women
among its members, and has done a good work in the community. During
the past year it has given to the world one minister. Rev. Geo. W. Russell
of Starksboro, Vt., and one missionary, Miss Etta Castellow of Calcutta,
India. This church is congregational in polity, and in faith stands for free
grace, open communion and the baptism of believers by immersion only.
It is a member of a body of churches of like faith in the State, called the
Massachusetts Association of Free Baptist Churches. It has also con
nected with it all the usual auxiliaries : a Sunday-school, Young People's
Society, Ladies' Social Circle, etc., and with the other churches in the city
is laboring for the salvation of men and for that righteousness among the
people that exalteth a nation.

Rev. Edwin P. Moulton,
Pastor Randall Memorial Free Baptist Church.

Randall Memorial Free Baptist Church,
(Now being erected on New Cross Street.)

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 289
THE PERKINS STREET BAPTIST CHURCH.
By Rev. John R. Go\v.
This church was organized May 4, 1845, with fourteen members. It was
first known as the Neck Village Baptist Church, later as the Charlestown
and Somerville Baptist Church, and in August, 1853, as the Perkins Street
Baptist Church. The first meeting-house occupied by the church was erected
at the corner of Main and Haverhill streets, Charlestown. In the summer
of 1853 it was removed and located on Perkins street, Somerville, at the same
time being somewhat enlarged. In 1864 the house was remodelled, and on
Monday, January 8, 1866, it was destroyed by fire. In June, 1867, a new
house was dedicated, of a size to accommodate six hundred persons and
costing $25,000. In 1873 the meeting house was further enlarged to a seat
ing capacity of a thousand persons. This house still stands, being occupied
by the East Somerville Baptist Church.
The church has had seven ministers. William Stow was ordained June
25, 1S45, on the day in which the first meeting-house was dedicated and the
church was publicly recognized by its sister churches. Mr. Stow's ministry
continued five years and two months. C. H. ToplifE was ordained September
30, 1850, and continued in service one year and seven months. N. M. Wil
liams entered on his ministry with the church in August, 1852. The change
in the location of the house of worship and in the name of the church was
made under his leadership, which lasted seven years and nine months. J.
Judson Miller was ordained September 17, 1861, and remained the successful
and beloved minister of the church and the community till his resignation
of the office, October 3, 1880, a period of nineteen years. William A. Smith
came to the church from Cleveland, Ohio, in July, 1881, and materially in
creased the congregations and enlarged the church activities. His ministry
covered a period of about eight years, closing in March , 1 889 . C . L. Rhoades
assumed the charge of the church in December, 1889, and resigned his office
in March, 1890. During the later years of Mr. Smith's service unfortunate
dissensions arose, which culminated in the withdraAval, in March, 1890, of
about two hundred members, including Mr. Rhoades, who formed the East
Somerville Baptist Church. In July, 1890, the five hundred members of the
church still remaining were deprived of the use of the church edifice by a
bare majority in the society which controlled the propertj'. Though thrown
into confusion by this action, the leaders of the church arranged for the
carrying on of preaching services, at first in Arcanum Hall and later in the
Franklin street Congregational meeting-house by the courtesy of the body
worshiping there. Steps were also taken for the erection of a new house
on the present lot, near the corner of Cross and Pearl streets. Warned by
the experience through which it had just passed, the church became incor
porated August 29, 1890, under the present State law for the incorporation of
religious bodies. Rev. Andrew R. Moore became the minister January i,
1 89 1. In May, 1892, the new meeting-house which had been erected at a
cost of $46,000 was dedicated. Mr. Moore closed his labors with the church

290 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
September i, 1894, and the present minister, John R. Gow, succeeded to the
office in July, 1895. After many revisions of the roll, the church reports
three hundred and seventy-three resident members.
UNION SQUARE BAPTIST CHURCH.
This, the latest addition to the numerous houses of worship of Somer
ville is one of the handsomest structures in the city. For a long period the
society had sorely felt the need of a permanent home, its large and increas
ing number of members being but poorly accommodated in the hall in which
its meetings were held, and a number of efforts were made to obtain suffi
cient funds to permit the erection of a proper edifice.
After many struggles and disappointments the necessary amount was at
length obtained to warrant the undertaking. Ground was broken on the lot
owned by the society on Walnut street, August 12, 1895. The corner-stone
was laid with appropriate ceremonies and addresses, October 3, following.
The building was completed for occupancy in June, 1 896, and on the four
teenth of that month the first services in the church were held. The edifice
is a most sightly one, the towers and handsome windows of stained glass of
various designs giving it a very attractive appearance. It is of wood above
the first story, which is of brick, with slated roof and copper gutters. The
main entrance is at the base of the large tower, with other entrances on Wal
nut street and Giles park. The plans were prepared by Architect Warren
K. Hayes of Minneapolis, Minn., and the building contract was awarded to
John A. Dodge.
The growth of the society has been steady, and it has now a member
ship of nearly two hundred. Soon after the laying of the corner-stone the
pastor, Rev. E. J. McKenna, on the 6th of October, resigned. He had been
in failing health several months, and upon his retirement Rev. R. B. Moody
was engaged as stated supply for the pulpit and later as acting pastor. At
the annual business meeting last January, the following official board was
elected for the year 1896 : Deacon, (three years) A. B. Gookin, (two years)
I. H. Brown, (one year) T. M. Maddison ; moderator of business meetings,
G. M. Wadsworth; clerk, G. H. Streeter; treasurer, A. O. Taylor; Sunday-
school superintendent, W. P. McGeouch.
WINTER HILL BAPTIST CHURCH.
The Winter Hill Baptist Church was organized June 27, 1881, and the
first church meeting was held on that day. A council was called for June
28, 1881, to recognize the church as a regular Baptist Church.
The church was recognized by a unanimous vote and the recognition ser
vices were held in the evening as follows : sermon by Rev. J. J. Miller, prayer
by Rev. J. Cooke, and giving the right hand of fellowship by Rev. Mr. Lisle.
At a meeting on July 5, i88i, the first Sunday-school superintendent
was elected and the first pastor was called. August 30, 1881, it was voted
to call a council of churches to ordain the newly elected pastor.

Rev. William J. Day,
Pastor Winter Hill Baptist Church.

Winter Hill Baptist Church, School Street, opposite Maple Ave.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 293
January i, 1882, the first pastor resigned. Temple Hall, the first place
of worship, was furnished and an organ purchased.
April 17, 1884, it was decided to hold services in Weldon hall.
April 30, it was voted to call a council for the ordination of the pastor
elect, and several were received by letter from the Perkins-street Church.
June 2, 1884, it was voted to appoint a committee of three whose duties
shall be to look after a lot of land, soHcit funds, and any and all things per
taining to building a house for God's worship.
November 26, the pastor's resignation was accepted.
April 30, 1885, a call was given to the pastorate, and on June 6 it was
accepted. March 18, 1886, it was voted to authorize the circulation of a paper soli
citing subscriptions for funds to purchase a lot of land upon which to erect
a church edifice.
June 24, 1886, it was voted to change the name of the church to Winter
Hill Baptist Church.
November 4, 1886, a numerous land committee was appointed to devise
means for raising money.
April I, 1887, a committee was appointed to look after the legal organi
zation of the church, and on April 21, the church adopted by-laws for the
corporation, and elected officers. One clerk served the church from its or
ganization to this date.
May 5, 1887, it was voted to authorize the trustees to purchase a lot on
School street for a house of worship, and that it was expedient to proceed
to build. A building committee of fifteen was appointed.
October 8, 1888, ground was broken and the building to which the
church had looked forward so long began. The new house was dedicated
with appropriate services on the evening of April 10, 1889.
The building is a modern structure, combining the Queen Anne with
some Gothic and classical features. The rural English church architecture
best describes the style of the building. The edifice is ninety feet in length.
The auditorium is forty feet wide and fifty feet in length. The front of the
building is seventy feet in width. The tower to the left of the main entrance
on School street is twenty feet square and seventy feet in height. The main
entrance under a wide archway opens into an ample and attractive vestibule,
to the left of which are the ladies' parlor and toilet rooms. \\'ide double
doors open to the right of the vestibule into the vestry room, which is very
pleasant, being provided with a fire-place mantel and mirrors, and will seat
sixty or more. Beyond this is the library room. The rooms on the second
floor consist of one in the tower, an ample hallway and a gallery which will
seat eighty-five.
During its history of fifteen years, the church has been served by the
following pastors: Rev. L. H. Abrams, who served the church from July,
1881, to January i, 1883 ; Rev. Samuel Hill, January, 1883, to January 2, 1884 ;
Rev. Wm. D. ^^'ard, February, 1884, to November 6, 1884; Rev. Joseph F.
Barriett, June, 1885, to March 11, 1888 ; Rev. Edward D. Mason, April, 1888,
to June 5, 1 891 ; Rev. Wm. J. Day, May i, 1892, to the present time.

294 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
THE BROADWAY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
The movement which resulted in the establishment of this church began
with the formation of a Sabbath-school, by a few Christian people of Winter
Hill, in August, 1863. The school opened with about fifty members, in
Broadway Hall, situated on Broadway, at the foot of Winter Hill. Soon
stated preaching was inaugurated. Rev. E. Porter Dyer being engaged for
the purpose. An ecclesiastical society was formed, and services were con
tinued in the hall until the 21st of June, 1864, when the church, organized
the 14th of June preceding (the result of plans instituted the 24th of Decem
ber, 1863), with the society, dedicated a new church building at the corner
of Broadway and Central streets. This building was occupied until the
night of December 9, 1866, when it was destroyed by fire. Owing to finan
cial difficulties which had long embarrassed the enterprise and which led to
litigation, the church was left to its fate, without home or shelter. The
Sabbath following the fire the church assembled in a new dwelling-house
on Sycamore street, owned by Mr. Samuel Oakman, a member of the church.
On that day the acting pastor. Rev. E. P. Dyer, preached his last sermon.
Rev. E. P. Marvin was secured as temporary supply, and under his ministry
the church gained twenty-three members. Increase of attendance led to
removal to the town hall in the Forster schoolhouse, where services were
continued from July 7, 1867, until January 18, 1868, when the church re
moved to a new chapel on Sycamore street, erected by Mr. Oakman and
tendered to the church free of rent. In February, 1868, Rev. Samuel H.
Virgin of Andover was ordained as minister, and was duly installed as first
pastor of the church October 27 of the same year. During all this period
since the fire the expenses had been met by voluntary contributions, but in
June, 1869, another ecclesiastical society was formed. On account of poor
health, Mr. Virgin resigned in February, 1871. Early in the summer of that
year the society voted to build a chapel at the corner of Central street and
Broadway, the site of its former meeting-house, the land having been do
nated for the purpose by Mr. Samuel Oakman and Mrs. C. Eldridge, the
original owners. The new and beautiful house of worship was completed
and dedicated December 10, 1871, just five years after the burning of the
former church. Rev. William H. Pierson of Ipswich was installed pastor,
.August 29, 1872, and officiated as such to both church and society until 1879,
when, in consequence of a change in his theological views, other means of
relief failing the church, it, in compliance with advice of an ecclesiastical
council, voted to vacate the building, which it did in January, 1880, and com
menced services in the chapel it had formerly occupied on Sycamore street.
The ecclesiastical society did not continue its connection with the church
in this movement, but remained in the old building and under the ministry
of Mr. Pierson. In 1883-1884 the church erected a building on Sycamore
street on the present site of the church home. The church after the separa
tion had for ministers : Rev. A. H. Quint, D.D.,from January, 1881, to May i,
1884, acting pastor; Rev. Lewis V. Price, from September i, 1884, to June

!

Rev. Horace H. Leavitt,
Pastor Broadway Congregational Church.

Broadway Congregational Church,
Sycamore Street, Winter Hill.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 297
12, 1888, installed; Rev. Charles E. Andrews, from September i, 1889, to
March 1, 1891, installed ; Rev. Joseph F. Lovering, from August i, 1891,
to .\ugust 1, 1893, acting pastor; and Rev. Horace H. Leavitt from January
1, 1S94, installed, the present incumbent. In the fall of 1894, because of
large additions to the church membership during the year, and marked in
crease in the congregations, the question of enlarging the church edifice
was agitated, though there still existed a debt for the building then in use
of about $6,000. The church, which many years before had become incor
porated as a legal organization, voted, in the spring of 1895, to remodel and
enlarge its edifice, and some Si 0,000 was contributed for the purpose. The
work was undertaken at once and the new structure was dedicated in April,
1 896 ; the church having, however, a few weeks previous, through the
pledges (payable monthly, for three years) of its members and members of
the congregation, taken up the entire outstanding debt of the church and
the interest thereon for three years, amounting to about #24,000, so that
the building and its complete fittings could be dedicated practically free
from debt.
The church is now finely equipped with the best and most ample facili
ties, and is in a prosperous condition and growing rapidly.
Its present membership is about 340, its congregation between 300
and 400, and its Sabbath-school about 400 members.
DAY STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
By Rev. Peter MacQueen.
Preliminary action was taken looking to the formation of a Congrega
tional Church in West Somerville in the autumn of 1873.
Beginning with Sunday, December 14, religious services were regu
larly conducted by Rev. C. L. Mills, representing the Massachusetts Home
Missionary Society.
April 14, 1874, the West Somerville Congregational Church, with a
membership of fifty-two, was regularly organized by council, Mr. Mills act
ing as pastor until the following June, when ill health compelled his retire
ment. For two and one-half years the church worshipped in a hall in Claren
don Block, and the six months following in the M. E. Chapel on Holland
Street. During the summer of 1876 a house of worship was donated to the
society by the East Cambridge Evangelical Society, through the Massachu
setts Home Missionary Society.
This bui-lding was taken down, removed to the present site and rebuilt,
being dedicated December 4, 1876. This necessitated an indebtedness of
55,500, which was carried until the autumn of 1881, when, largely through
the efforts of its pastor. Rev. C. B. Summer, a sufficient amount was pledged
to pay the same. In the spring of 1882, through the kindness of friends of
the church, a bell was purchased and hung in the belfry. In the summer of

Rev. Peter MacQueen,
Pastor of Day Street Congregational Church.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 299
1 888, $1 ,200 was raised and applied to interior improvements and decorations
of the church building, consisting of new windows, new cushions, new car
pet, etc.
Again, in 1896, the church was completely renovated and beautified,
and a new Gothic front and Renaissance tower were added. The design of
the building was so entirely recast as to present an absolutely modern
structure. The membership of the Day Street Church is composed of kindly,
genial folk, who are religious in a quiet, cheerful way, and evermore benev
olent, and in all ways charitable. No one need ever feel the world is cold
or life is dreary who enters this comfortable Christian atmosphere. The
church sets itself to dignify life and labor, and set a star of hope above every
cradle and every coffin.
The pastors and acting pastors have been as follows : Rev. C. L. Mills,
April, 1874, to June, 1874, acting; Rev. James M. Hubbard, June, 1874, to
January, 1875, act. ; Rev. Albert Bryant, February, 1875, to January, 1880;
Rev. W. F. Bacon, January, 1880, to April, 1880, act. ; Rev. C. B. Summer,
June, i88o, to November, 1882; Rev. H. C. Hitchcock, November, 1882, to
January, 1893; Rev. Peter MacQueen, April, 1893.
FIRST CONGREGATIONAL (UNITARIAN) CHURCH.
The First Congregational (Unitarian) Church is the mother church of
the city. One autumn day a little more than half a century ago, the Rev.
Richard Manning Hodges was walking through the green fields and orchards
along the main road that led from Charlestown to Cambridge, over the
farms of what is now known as the city of Somerville, when, as he tells us
in his diary, "the thought occurred to him that he might make himself
useful as a religious teacher to many aged persons, young children and
others, who from the long distances were prevented from attending church
in these first-named towns.'' But when Mr. Hodges came here on a certain
Sunday in March, 1844, to hold religious service, he found that Miss Eliza
beth Page Whittredge, the teacher of the district school, had already on a
Sunday in June, 1842, in the first }'ear of the town's incorporation, gathered
her pupils and other children on Sabbath mornings, to instruct them in the
simple truths of the Gospel, and to hold up before their hearts the sweet
and attractive example of Jesus. So the good woman and the good minister
united their forces, — the little church and the little Sunday-school, with the
result that in August of this same year, 1844, a religious society was orga
nized, and the corner-stone of the first church was laid upon what is now
Central Hill park.
Within half a century, four new churches were builded by the founders
of this society and their successors, three of them upon the same site. The
first church was dedicated in September, 1845. The second church, after
the destruction of the first by fire, was completed in April, 1854. The third
church, after the destruction of the second by fire, was dedicated in January,

First Congregational (Unitarian) Church.
The old edifice on Central Hill.

Rev. William H. Pierson,
Pastor First Congregational (Unitarian) Society.

^02

SOMERITLLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

1869. The corner-stone of the fourth church was laid upon its present site
on Highland avenue, June, 1894. This edifice, designed by Hartwell and
Richardson of Boston, with Sunday-school rooms, parlors, memorial win
dows and all the accessories for the social and religious work of a modern
church, cost with the land and appointments, not far from $80,000, which
was largely secured by the sale of the old church to the city. Through the
efforts of the pastor and the contributions of the citizens, stimulated by a
special and generous gift, the church is the possessor of a fine chime of
eleven bells, from the old Paul Revere founderies of Boston.

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL (UNITARIAN) CHURCH.

Rev. John Turner Sargent, the friend and defender of Theodore Parker,
was the first pastor of the church. He was installed in 1846, and was suc
ceeded by Rev. Augustus R. Pope, a most excellent man and minister ;
Rev. Charles Lowe, afterwards secretary of the American Unitarian Asso
ciation ; Rev. Henry H. Barber, now professor in Meadville University, Pa. ;
and Rev. John S. Thompson, a graduate of Oxford, Eng., and now settled
in Los Angeles, Cal.
The present pastor. Rev. W. H. Pierson, a graduate of Bowdoin College,
came to the A¥inter Hill Congregational Church, Somerville, in 1872. His
pastorate lasted nearly nine years, during which time his theological opin
ions underwent a change, and after a ministry of ten years at Fitchburg, he
returned to Somerville, and was installed pastor of the First Unitarian
Church, April, 1891.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 303
The First Unitarian Church, if we may accept an impartial and unso
licited testimon}', " is one of the strongest and richest church-organizations
in the city; it has a good working force, a wide anH intelligent constituency,
and, in a quiet way, is doing a good deal for the denomination at large, as
well as for charities at home."
Our limits will not allow further mention of the founders, benefactors,
past and present supporters of this society, but we may speak of the special
devotion of one of its members, the late Columbus Tyler, who bequeathed
to the church nearly the whole of his large estate.
The purpose of the present management of the Church is to develop a
broad, catholic, humane organization. In its preaching and in its services,
the life, influence and teaching of Jesus of Nazareth is held in utmost love
and reverence ; and if the same insistence is not put upon theories and
doctrines as in other communions, much stress is laid upon ethical in
fluences, upon the deep, underlying sentiments of the soul, and upon the
constraining need of character, worship and religion.
FIRST ORTHODOX CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
This church was, as its name indicates, the first of the Congregational
denomination established in Somerville, and from it, as the parent church,
the various colonies which have grown into prominent church organizations
have received much aid and strength.
The first formal meeting, with a view to the founding of a church of the
Orthodox believers, was held at the house of Temple Paul, No. 17 Mt. Ver
non Street, April 21, 1853. On September 15, 1853, at the house of Ebenezer
Davis, the " First Orthodox Congregational Society " was legally organized.
The corner-stone of the first church edifice was laid October 10, 1854,
and the building was dedicated July 12, 1855. By an ecclesiastical council,
presided over by Rev. Nehemiah Adams, on May 3, 1855, the church was
duly organized according to Congregational polity, thirty-nine persons con
stituting its membership. The sermon on this occasion was delivered by
Rev. E. N. Kirk, of Boston.
On the following evening, officers were chosen as follows : deacons,
Ebenezer Davis, Oliver Dickson, Joseph Lovett ; examining committee,
N. J. Knight, Joshua H. Davis, James L. Tyler, O. H. Granville ; treasurer,
Joseph Lovett; clerk, Moses H. Sargent.
On January 3, 1856, Rev. Benjamin Judkins, Jr., was installed as pas
tor, the sermon being by Rev. A. L. Stone, of Boston.
On March 16, 1867, the "holy and beautiful house " was burned. The
corner-stone of a new church was laid August 27, 1867, and the present edi
fice on the original site on F^ranklin street was dedicated September 30, 1868.
The names of pastors are as follows : Rev. Benjamin Judkins, Novem
ber, 1855, to June 2, 1858 ; Rev. David T. Packard, July, 1858, to November
28, 1866 ; Rev. Lucius R. Eastman, Jr., March, 1867, to May 22, 1871 ; Rev.
William S. Hubbell, February, 1872, to November 22, 1881 ; Rev. William

First Orthodox Congregational Church,
Franklin, opposite Perkins Street.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .IND PRESENT. 305
E. Merriman, D. D., December, 1881, to June i, 1887 ; Rev. James H. Ross,
September i, 1888, to April 5, 1893.
At one period in its history the membership of the church exceeded
five hundred. On .\pril i, 1896, there were three hundred and sixty-four
members. Rev. James M. Gray, of Boston, has recently served as pastor
in charge. The Sunday-school and various societies connected with the
church have been actively engaged in the interests of morality and religion,
and fruitful in good works. At the present time, the deacons are Henry F.
Sears, John P. Heath, Barna S. Cole, Charles H. Colgate, Henry M. Moore.
The treasurer is George E. Dustin, and G. A. Southworth is clerk.
C. H. Colgate is superintendent of the Sunday-school.
HIGHLAND CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. -
By Rev. George S. K. .Vnderson.
The Highland Congregational Church, organized November 11, 1894,
with a membership of forty, was incorporated November 28, 1894, and recog
nized by the council, January 21, 1895.
The first movement which finally led to the organization of the High
land Church was a series of open-air meetings, conducted by E. P. Dunham
and others, during the summer of 1893 ; but it was not until the following
year that the work assumed definite shape. In July, August, and Septem
ber, 1894, gospel tent-meetings were held under the auspices of the free
Congregational Church of Somerville, and of the Home Missionary Society
of Mass. The meetings were conducted by Rev. Geo. S. K. Anderson,
whose services were secured through the Evangelistic Association of New
England. The large blessing which crowned the work encouraged the
people to go forward, and before the closing of the tent-meetings they
voted to organize a church, and to call Mr. Anderson to be its pastor. The
lot of land, containing sixteen thousand feet, on the corner of Highland
avenue and Lowell street, on which the tent was pitched, was purchased
in November, 1894, for 53,835, and a contract for a s6,ooo chapel was placed
with Messrs Osgood & Stevens.
During the fall and winter of 1S94-95 the meetings of the newly organ
ized church were held in Guild Hall, Central street, in a vacant store on
Cedar street, and in the homes of the people.
On Easter-Sunday morning, April 14, 1895, nine and a half months after
the first tent-meeting was held, the new building was formally opened, and
on May 8, 1895, was appropriately .dedicated to the service of Almighty
God. One unique and highly commendable feature of this work is that the
church has been built, and all present obligations met without the aid of a
single bazaar, fair or entertainment. The church is a free church. No seat
can be rented or sold. It is a church for the masses, and both pastor and
people desire to make it a great life-saving station.

3o6 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
PROSPECT HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
By Rev. Edward S. Tead.
The Prospect Hill Congregational Church was organized December
30, 1874, in Bacon Hall, Union square, with sixty-one charter members,
thirty-seven of whom are now living. The recognition sermon was preached
by Rev. S. E. Herrick, D.D., of Boston. Inasmuch as the first meeting-
place of the few people who afterward organized the church was in Dea. M.
P. Elliot's house on Prospect Hill — a hill associated with the early history
of the Revolution — it was voted to call the new church Prospect Hill
Church. Rev. A. E. Winship was installed as the first pastor, February 9, 1876,
and for nine years held the office with the increasing affection and regard of
his people. In October, 1883, Rev. Mr. Winship resigned, and on May 8,
1884, the present pastor. Rev. Edward Sampson Tead, was installed.
The first house of worship, situated on Warren avenue, was dedicated
in 1876, and became the property of the Union Square Presbyterian Church,
October i, 1887.
In October, 1889, the present house of worship was dedicated. Rev.
Alexander McKenzie, D.D., of Cambridge, preaching the sermon. Mrs.
Louise Ordway Tead wrote the dedication hymn.
The edifice is one of the finest in the city, and has a seating capacity of
seven hundred. The church is progressive in its methods of work, and its
influence for good is recognized by all as powerful and permanent.
WINTER HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
By Rev. Charles L. Noyes.
In August, 1863, under the leadership of Samuel A. Carlton, now of
Boston, a few Christian people of Winter Hill organized a Sabbath-school,
there being then no public religious services of any kind held nearer than
the Unitarian Church, Highland avenue, the Cross-street Universalist, or
the Franklin-street Church, East Somerville.
As an outgrowth of this Sabbath-school an ecclesiastical society was
soon organized, and Rev. E. Porter Dyer of Hingham, Mass., was engaged
as acting pastor. On June 14, 1865, a church was formally organized, num
bering twenty-eight members.
The ministry of Mr. Dyer having terminated in December, 1866, was
followed by that of Rev. E. P. Marvin, but the first regularly settled pastor
of the church was the Rev. Samuel H. Virgin, who was ordained and in
stalled October 27, 1868, and filled the pastorate until February, 1871. He
was succeeded, August 29, 1872, by Rev. W. H. Pierson, who served until
January 30, 1881.
About this time the membership of this church was divided. A part
withdrew, and were recognized ecclesiastically as the Broadway Congrega
tional Church. The portion remaining with the society continued its ser-

Highland Congregational Church, Highland Avenue.

Winter Hill Congregational Church,- Broadway and Central Street.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 3 09
vices and Sabbath-school until they united with other Christians worship
ing with them to constitute the \Mnter Hill Congregational Church, which
was organized January 24, and formally recognized by council January 29,
1883. The society then changed its name to the Winter Hill Congrega
tional Society to conform with the Winter Hill Congregational Church,
which it accepted as the church of the society.
The present pastor. Rev. Charles L. Noyes, who had been serving in
this capacity since June, 1882, was dul}- installed as pastor, June 18, 1883.
Since its organization the Winter Hill Congregational Church and So
ciety have enjoyed nearly fourteen years of uninterrupted growth and pros
perity. A debt of fifteen hundred dollars ($1500) has been paid off, and
resources gathered for the erection of a new building at a cost of 530,000,
to accommodate the growing congregation and Sabbath-school. The mem
bership, which began with 43, has increased to a total of 210.
The Sabbath-school, which in 1883 numbered 170 and was divided into
16 classes, has now 250 on its lists — 222 scholars, 20 teachers and s officers.
Throughout its entire history the church has been efficiently aided,
and much of its best missionary work has been done, by a Ladies' Society.
They took the initiative both in raising the old debt and in starting the
fund for the new edifice.
ST. ANN'S (CATHOLIC) CHURCH.
In October, 1877, land was purchased by Father McGrath, on the corner
of Medford and Thurston streets, as a site for the church, and four years
later St. Ann's was erected. Three weeks after the dedication of the edi
fice, which tookplace September 25, 1881, Rev. John B. Galvin was installed
as pastor, who said his first mass in the church on the 23 d day of October
in the same year.
Father Galvin's work in St. Ann's parish has been principally devoted
to the spiritual building up of his people. For this purpose among other
things he has had missions given by the Passionist, Redemptionist, Jesuit and
Paulist Fathers. Among the material improvements he has made in the
church edifice may be noted the beautifying of the interior by frescoing, the
enlargement of the vestries, the reconstruction of the main altar and the
placing of new side altars, the addition of vestibules and a very tasteful
fagade and tower.
November 27, 1894, the church was partially destroyed by a fire, the
tower, roof and the upper portion of the walls being partly consumed. In
two months after the fire, however, notwithstanding the advent of very cold
weather and several severe snowstorms, the edifice was rededicated and
made to appear, interiorly, more beautiful than ever.
Among the societies attached to this church in addition to the Sunday-
school may be mentioned the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, for the care of
the poor ; the Holy Name Society, whose special object is to cultivate a
greater reverence for the sacred names of God and Jesus Christ ; and the

3IO SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
League of the Sacred Heart, whose object is to inculcate a greater love for
the heart of the God-Man. They are all in a flourishing condition and bring
many blessings upon the people of St. Ann's parish.
ST. CATHERINE'S (CATHOLIC) CHURCH.
By Rev. James J. O'Brien.
The last of the trio of churches erected by the Catholics of Somerville
is the one dedicated to St. Catherine of Genoa. In 1891, the parish of St.
Catherine was organized, and the Rev. James J. O'Brien placed in charge.
Ground for the new church was broken in December, 1891, and the edifice
was finished in April, 1892. The first mass was said on Easter Sunday of
that year.
The present church on Spring Hill is a temporary frame structure,
one hundred and fifteen feet by sixty-five feet, with a seating capacity of
about one thousand. It stands somewhat back from Summer street. The
grounds around the church are well kept — the grassy lawn is ornamented
with flower-beds and trees. The parochial residence is a large and substan
tial building. The pastor, Rev. James J. O'Brien, son of the late Mayor Hugh O'Brien
of Boston, was born in Boston in 1854, and received his early education in
the public schools of that city. He studied for a short time at Boston Col
lege and then entered St. Charles College, EUicott City, Maryland, from
which institution he graduated in 1874. He studied theology in St. Mary's
Seminary, Baltimore, and was ordained a priest by Cardinal Gibbons, De
cember 21, 1878. For over seven years he labored in Arlington, and in Feb
ruary, 1885, was transferred to St. James Church, Boston. In 1891, he was
appointed by the Most Rev. John J. Williams to Somerville. Rev. D. W.
Lenehan is the assistant.
The congregation of St. Catherine's numbers about two thousand. The
Sunday-school of the parish numbers about four hundred members. The
various church societies and social organizations are active in charitable
and parish work.
It is the ambition of the people of St. Catherine's Church to erect, in
the near future, on the top of Spring Hill, an edifice adapted to the growing
needs of the parish.
EMMANUEL (EPISCOPAL) CHURCH.
It is well that the early history of Emmanuel Church, a prolonged
struggle against intolerance, partisan fanaticism, and the bitter hostility
which mistook the zeal of opinion for religion, should remain unwritten.
The struggle was successful, and the knowledge of that issue is sufficient for
the present. The early formation of the present parish known as Emmanuel chapel
dates from Easter Sunday, 1862. The place of worship was in a small hall.

Rev. Nathan K. Bishop,
Rector Emmanuel (Episcopal) Church.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church,
Summer and Central Streets.

SOMERVILLE, /AST AND PRESENT. 313
then at the corner of Milk Row and Park street. A moderate congregation
continued to worship there until December 18, 1862, when a permanent
organization was effected, as follows : —
" We, the subscribers, members of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the
diocese of Massachusetts, hereby agree to form, and have formed, a religious
society for the purpose of organizing a free church in the town of Somer
ville, subject to the doctrine, discipline and worship of the said Protestant
Episcopal Church and in continuation of the existing parish, known as Em
manuel chapel.
" R. P. Benton, Ramsey Clarke, Mortimer Lyon, Jno. O. Pierce, Heber C.
Lyon, Joseph H. Clark, Peter J. Barry, Benjamin Woodward, Joseph Proc
tor, L. D. Jackson."
Four days afterward, on December 22, 1862, a legal corporation was or
ganized under the provisions of the thirtieth chapter of the General Statutes
of Massachusetts, and on December 29, 1862, the first board of parish
officers was elected, as follows : —
Clerk, Heber C. Lyon ; wardens. Dr. Francis Dana, Mortimer Lyon ;
vestry, R. P. Benton, Philemon Morey, John O. Pierce, Peter J. Barry,
Joseph Proctor, Orel Towle, Benj. Woodward ; treasurer, H. C. Lyon.
At the parish meeting, on Easter Monday, 1863, ]Mr. Reuben P. Benton
was elected warden, in lieu of Dr. Francis Dana, who resigned the office.
Mr. George Cullis was elected on the vestry to the vacancy created bj' Mr.
Benton's election to the wardenship, and two more vestrymen were elected,
viz. : Ramsey Clarke, E. A. Fitcham.
At the parish meeting in 1864, Mr. Joseph H. Clark was elected clerk
of Emmanuel parish, and has been annually re-elected ever since. Mr.
Benton was re-elected warden at the same meeting, and has been annually
re-elected ever since. Mr. Benton was chosen treasurer at that meeting,
and continued as such till 1870, when Mr. Clark was elected and has con
tinued as such, ever since.
At the parish meeting, in 1865, ^Ir. Samuel Re}-nolds, Jr., was elected
junior warden, vice Mr. Mortimer Lj-on, resigned, and Mr. Reynolds was
annually re-elected till his decease in 1886, when Mr. Robert H. Gibby was
chosen. Mr. Gibby declined re-election, and Mr. Geo. A. Gordon was
elected junior warden, and has held that position until the present time.
At the diocesan convention in 1864, Emmanuel church, Somerville,
was admitted to union with the convention, and has been represented at
every convention since. The first delegates were : Messrs. Benjamin \\'ood-
ward, Peter H. Barry and Mortimer Lyon.
The present officers of Emmanuel church, Somerville, are : rector,
Nathan K. Bishop ; senior warden, Reuben P. Benton ; junior warden, Geo.
A.Gordon; clerk, Joseph H. Clark; treasurer, Joseph H. Clark; vestry,
George I. Vincent, Philip Highly, Frank G. Reynolds, Joseph H. Clark ;
delegates to the diocesan convention, Robert H. Gibby, Geo. A. Gordon,
George I. Vincent.

314 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
ST. THOMAS' EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
By Rev. Andrew Gray.
In the spring of 1863, the late Rev. N. G. Allen conferred with Rev. Dr.
Lambert, late rector of St. John's Church, Charlestown, as to the advisability
of establishing the services of the Episcopal Church in East Somerville.
Dr. Lambert heartily endorsed the suggestion and at once circulated a sub
scription paper to obtain funds for the rent of a suitable room for services.
At the suggestion of Dr. Childs, a chapel situated on the corner of
Washington and Tufts streets was rented at $125 per annum. Certain
changes, rendered necessary to make the building suitable for the services
of the Episcopal Church, were effected, and articles of church furniture
added. Rev. Mr. Allen took charge of the work, and on Sunday evening.
May 17, 1863, the first service was held and a sermon preached by the Rev.
Dr. Randall, afterwards Bishop of Colorado.
The Sunday following. May 24, 1863, a Sunday-school was opened, with
three teachers and nine scholars, under the temporary superintendence of a
Mr. Whitman of Cambridgeport. The teachers were Mrs. Hatch, Miss
Wood and Mr. Webb. The school took a recess on Sunday, August 9, for
three Sundays, and reopened on Sunday, September 6, with an increased at
tendance. Evening service on that day was attended by a much larger con
gregation than usual.
Rev. Mr. Allen, having accepted a call to Wrentham, resigned the work
at East Somerville, officiating for the last time February 5, 1865.
After the lapse of a few months the Rev. F. W. Shelton " entered upon
the duties as rector, November 18, 1866." He did not remain very long in
charge of the work.
The parish had again been vacant for some time when, on the i8th of
July, 1869, the late Rev. George W. Durell "entered upon the duties as
rector in Hawkins' Hall," Union square. The church was built in little
more than a year after, and used for its holy purposes when finished, though
with a debt upon it. The debt having been discharged, the building was
consecrated by Bishop Paddock, July 9, 1875, on which occasion the sermon
was preached by the Rev. Dr. Burgess, now Bishop of Quincy, Illinois.
Mr. Durell continued rector of the parish till the da}- of his death, August
26, 1895. He was greatly beloved and universally regretted. The parish
register shows that during the twenty-six years of his incumbency he had
baptized 942 persons, presented 439 for confirmation, officiated at 527 mar
riages and at 755 burials.
The present rector. Rev. Andrew Gray, D.D., was unanimously elected
to succeed him. He accepted the election and entered on his work as rec
tor, December 15, 1895. The people are taking hold of the work with him,
and a bright and promising future appears to be in store for St. Thomas'
Church.

Rev. George W. Durell,
Late Rector St. Thomas' Episcopal Church.

Rev. Andrew Gray, D. D.,
Rector St. Thomas' Episcopal Church.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 317
ST. JAMES' (EPISCOPAL) CHURCH.
The parish of St. James' is an offshoot of St. James', North Cambridge,
and was organized as a mission of that church in 1875. .\ small chapel was
built in 1876 on Newbury street, near Holland, in which the first service was
held November 26, of that year. April 8, 1880, the edifice was consecrated
by Bishop Paddock, the whole cost of construction having been paid. De
cember 12, 1885, this edifice was moved to its present site. On the 18th
day of November the mission was incorporated into a separate parish, by
the election of a rector, wardens and vestry, in accordance with the laws of
the Commonwealth. The rector chosen was the Rev. John \\\ Suter, who
was also at that time rector of the Church of the Epiphany, \\'inchester.
The wardens elected were Albert S. Pillsbury and William L. Dodge, and
the vestry consisted of Edwin S. Burroughs, Isaac R. Webber, Silas H.
Holland, J. Q. Bennett, D. L. Countway, Samuel Hollis, G. G. Little and
E. R. Clowsen. Edwin S. Burroughs was elected clerk, and Isaac R. Web
ber, treasurer. The parish as thus organized was admitted into union with
the Convention of the Diocese of Massachusetts at its annual convention in
Ma}', 1889. In 1892 the edifice was improved by the addition of a chancel
and parish room, and a dedicatory service was held by the Right Rev.
Phillips Brooks, Bishop of the Diocese, December 7, of that year.
There have been three rectors of the parish since its organization :
the Rev. John W. Suter and the Rev. Thos. Bell, who held the rectorship
in connection with another parish, and the Rev. Edward P. Lee, the first
resident-rector. Many of the services have been conducted by Mr. A. S.
Pillsbury, who has held the Bishop's license as Lay Reader since January,
1880. He has also been warden of the mission, from a period long before
it was organized into a parish until the present time. The Sunday-school
work has always had his efficient aid, the superintendency of which he has
held from the beginning.
The church is located on the corner of Broadway and Clarendon ave
nue. The Rev. Edward P. Lee, rector ; Albert S. Pillsbury and John A.
Dodge, wardens ; Isaac R. \\'ebber, Edwin S. Burroughs, William T. Cleve
land, Otis E. Phalen, George Melluber, \\'illiam H. Tweedie, Edward B.
Lee, vestrymen. FIRST ?iIETHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
By Re\'. George S. Butters.
In September, 1855, Rev. Abraham Merril, then preaching at East
Cambridge, sent a local preacher named Rufus Gerrish to Somerville to
start a Methodist society. A few people were gathered in Franklin Hall, a
building then standing at the junction of Washington street and Somerville
avenue. Two weeks after a Sunday-school was started consisting of five
scholars. The first Sunday-school teacher was Mrs. S. J. Canfield, who
taught three of these scholars, and Mr. Gerrish taught the other two. This

3l8 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
school increased until it numbered nearly a hundred. The first superinten
dent was Joshua Wiley, and the second Asa Mayo, now living in Minnesota.
After the services had been commenced a class-meeting was established at
at the residence of Mr. J. B. Canfield. Mr. Gerrish continued to supply
the pulpit until the next April, when he was succeeded by Rev. D. C. Bab
cock, who remained one year. The first minister appointed by the New
England conference was Rev. Charles Baker, who was largely instrumental
in the building of the then new church.
The First Methodist Episcopal Church has had the following pastors
since the close of Mr. Baker's ministry: Oliver S. Howe, Burtis Judd,
Franklin Furber, J. H. Owens, Samuel Jackson, Albert Gould, J. W. Ham
ilton, Wm. C. High, John A. Cass, Geo. S. Chadbourne, Geo. Whitaker, J.
W. Hamilton, George Skene, I. H. Packard. The present pastor is Rev.
Geo. S. Butters. The present church building was erected in 1874. It is
the largest audience room in the city, and the church itself is one of the
most aggressive religious organizations in Somerville. Its membership is
577, and its Sunday-school numbers about 700.
PARK AVENUE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
Early in 1872 a few Methodist families in West Somerville, finding
themselves in a new community, and at a distance from their respective
churches, met at various private houses and held prayer-meeting services.
These soon led to meetings in larger places, and in May, 1872, a class
of eleven members was formed under the leadership of Rev. W. F. Lacount,
an aged Methodist minister, who with his family had moved into the place.
About this time Dr. G. M. Kingman offered the use of an empty room in
his new block at the corner of Elm street and Highland avenue, now occu
pied by Heald's hardware store. Here Sunday services were held consist
ing of Sunday-school and prayer meetings, and sometimes preaching by
Rev. W. F. Lacount. May 28, 1872, the first Quarterly Conference was
held. Rev. J. W. Hamilton being delegated b}^ Rev. D. Sherman, the pre
siding elder of the district, to preside. Rev. F. J. Wagner of Medford and
Rev. W. F. Lacount assisted in the formal organization of the church.
The following official board was elected : Trustees : Chas. E. Joyce,
Eugene D. Lacount, Walter K. Foster, Frederick H. Tibbetts, Edward A.
Kingman, Jesse Simpson, Silas H. Holland. Stewards: Chas. E. Joyce,
Eugene D. Lacount, Jacob F. Emerson, William F. Lacount, Alby J. Warren.
The organization took the name of the Holland Street M. E. Church, which,
at the opening of the present edifice, was changed to the Park Avenue
M. E. Church.
July I, 1872, the board of trustees took on corporate powers in accor
dance with the laws of the Commonwealth, and appointed a committee to
secure subscriptions for the erection of a place of worship. Few in num
bers and poor in purse, but full of faith, they succeeded in securing a cheap
and poorly constructed chapel at an expense of about i! 1,600, in which they

Rev. George S. Butters,
Pastor First Methodist Episcopal Church.

First Methodist Episcopal Church,
Bow Street and Wesley Park.

PARK Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church,
Park Avenue, near Elm Street.

Rev. Garrett Beekman,
Pastor Park Avenue M. E. Church.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 323
received their first pastor. Rev. A. E. Winship, who was appointed to that
charge April 8, 1873. Mr. ^\"inship remained one year, and helped much
by his enthusiasm in establishing this early foundation of what was to be a
strong society. The chapel was dedicated May i, 1873, Rev. Jefferson
Hascall delivering the dedicatory sermon. At this time there was a mem
bership of twenty-one, which has increased to about three hundred and
thirty members. In 1880 or 1881 it became evident that a change of site
must be made, and the property at the corner of Elm street and Park ave
nue, now occupied by Dr. Bryant, was purchased and was used as a
parsonage for about two years. Early in 1882 a part of this property, in
cluding the buildings, was sold, the church retaining 40 feet frontage on
Park avenue, to which was added by purchase c^^ feet more, making a lot
95 feet by 88 feet, on which the present edifice was erected. Rev. L. A.
Bosworth, Geo. R. Emerson and L. W. Jones were the building committee,
to whom, by their indefatigable exertions and wise management, the church
owes its comfortable home for the past thirteen years. The present build
ing was dedicated February 7, 1883, the dedicatory exercises being under
the direction of Rev. D. Dorchester, the presiding elder of the district.
The entire cost of the edifice, including furnishings, was about si 2,000.
This church has always been a progressive one and a power for good
in the community. It is thoroughly organized for every department of work,
having a large Sunday-school, a live chapter of Epworth League, as well as
a Junior League, and various missionary and benevolent societies. It be
lieves it has a work to accomplish in this place and means to do it.
The following pastors have served the church since its organization : —
Rev. A. E. Winship, April, 1873, to April, 1874.
Rev. John R. Gushing, April, 1874, to April, 1875.
Rev. Albert D. Knapp, April, 1875, to August, 1876.
Rev. Wm. Full, August, 1876, to April, 1879.
Rev. Wm. Merrill, April, 1879, to April 1881.
Rev. L. A. Bosworth, April, 1881, to April, 1884.
Rev. Gilbert C. Osgood, April, 1884, to April, 1886.
Rev. A. R. Nichols, April, 1886, to April, 1889.
Rev. Henry Mathews, April, 1889, to April, 1891.
Rev. John H. Mansfield, April, 1891, to April, 1894.
Rev. Garrett Beekman, the present pastor, received his appointment
April, 1894.
The constantly increasing congregations have convinced the official
board that immediate steps must be taken to provide a larger audience
room, as well as other facilities for effective church work, and it is expected
that the needed changes will be carried out early next year.

324 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
UNION SQUARE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
By Re\'. Thomas Atkinson.
Was organized by the presbytery of Boston, in Pythian Hall, Tuesday
evening, December 14, 1886. At the same meeting elders were ordained,
and over sixty members were received by letter and on profession of faith.
Rev. C. S. Dewing, D.D., to whose labors the organization was due, was in
stalled as the first pastor January 25, 1887.
In October of the same year the congregation purchased their present
place of worship from the Congregational society. From the first the con
gregation grew rapidly, and in a remarkably short time the church was
clear of debt.
In October, 1893, Rev. C. S. Dewing, D.D., closed his pastorate in
order to accept the position of pastor at large of the New England chur
ches. Soon afterwards Rev. Thomas Atkinson was invited to fill the pulpit,
and having accepted the invitation began his work in January, 1894. After
laboring for three months, Mr. Atkinson was duly installed as pastor in
response to the earnest and unanimous request of the people.
The membership now exceeds 250. The people are united and en
thusiastic, so that the outlook for the future is bright.
FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH.
By Rev. L. M. Powers.
Memorial services were first held in the Town Hall in 1853, with Rev.
George H. Emerson, D.D., as minister. The church was not organized,
however, until February 16, 1854. The original incorporators were Ira
Thorp, Charles Williams, Erastus E. Cole, Reuben Horton, Edwin Munroe,
David Russell, James S. Runey, J. Q. Twombly, Robert Burrows, David P.
Horton, Alfred Horton.
The first chapel was built upon land given by Charles Tufts, for whom
Tufts College was afterward named. From the beginning the church has
had a place of influence among the religious forces of tbe city and the Uni
versalist denomination. The present building was erected in 1869, and the
Social Hall, a substantial structure, w^s added in 1894.
In forty-three years the church has had seven pastors : Rev. George
H. Emerson, editor of the " Christian Leader," Rev. D. K. Clark, Rev. B.
K. Russ, Rev. George H. Vibbert, Rev. U. S. Ralph, Rev. Charles A.
Skinner, and the present pastor. Rev. L. M. Powers. The church is now
in a prosperous condition, and the Sunday-school is one of the largest in
the Universalist denomination.
It is decidedly a working church. During the winter the church or
Social Hall is open nearly every night. The following are among the offi
cers of the church : deacons, J. F. Nickerson, Arthur W. Glines, J. W. San
born, Irving Smith ; C. A. Kirkpatrick, clerk. Parish committee : J. F.
Nickerson, chairman ; L. V. Niles, C. E. Giles, Dr. A. H. Carvill, George

Union Square Presbyterian Church,
Warren Avenue.

First Universalist Church,
Cross and Tufts Streets.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST .IND J'RESENT 327
Stephens; Seth Mason, clerk; A. Hodgman, treasurer ; superintendent of
Sunday-school, A. A. Wyman ; George F. Horton, secretary. Sewing circle :
Mrs. F. B. Burrows, president. Young People's Christian Union : Dr.
George Greenleaf, president.
THIRD UNIVERSALLST CHURCH.
By Re\-. Thomas Edward Potterto.n'.
Early in i8,Si a few devoted Universalists, under the leadership of .Mr.
Carmi D. Chamberlin, gathered to discuss the feasibility of organizing a
Universalist parish in ^Vest Somerville. The agitation bore fruit in the
call, issued July i, 18S1, to^meet on the 13th of the same month for the pur
pose of organizing a Universalist society. Clarendon Hall was engaged as
a place of worship, and the pulpit was supplied by eminent clergymen, who
gave their services in aid of the new movement. .At a meeting of the parish.
May 24, 1882, it was voted to engage Mr. R. A. \\'hite, a student in Tufts
Divinit}' School, for six months. This arrangement continued for nearly a
year, when the pulpit was again supplied by different ministers until January,
1.S84, when Rev. C. A. Skinner, pastor of the First Universalist Church, was
called as pastor, to preach on Sunday afternoons for the new society.
.\t the annual parish meeting in .\pril, 1883, the standing committee
reported an offer from an interested member to give " a lot of land, sixty
feet square, on Highland avenue, a short distance beyond the new school-
house, on the corner of the avenue and a new street called West street."
The desire became strong in the parish to possess an eligible church site,
and many lots were considered. So intense was the interest in the young
parish, that it held four meetings in May, 1883, and at the last one voted to
buy the land on the corner of Elm and Morrison streets. Time has proved
this to be the best church location in W^est Somerville. A year later, further
agitation and consideration resulted in a vote to build a chapel. Mr. Hosea
B. Dennison, a faithful member of the parish, was selected as architect and
superintendent. In September, 1884, the work of building commenced, and
on the last day of the year the Third Universalist Church was dedicated.
Rev. A. X. .Miner, D.D., preaching the sermon. September i, 1889, Rev.
.Mr. Skinner finished his labors with the society, after nearly six years of
faithful and successful work. Shortly after internal dissensions lessened
the strength of the parish and caused the departure of some of its most
generous supporters. In April, 1890, Rev. Charles Macomber Smith, D.D.,
who had been for nearly twenty years a Baptist clergyman in Somerville,
was chosen pastor, and under his experienced care and Christian guidance
the church gained in strength and influence in the community. After three
and a half years of faithful labor. Dr. Smith resigned, and was succeeded
by Rev. Thomas Edward Potterton, who was called to the pastorate No
vember 1, 1893. The parish has steadily gained in strength, numerically
and financially, and in spiritual estate, the true test of Christian success.
The present needs demand an increased seating capacity, and in all proba
bility the church will be enlarged at no distant day.

328 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
WINTER HILL UNIVERSALIST CHURCH.
By Re\'. Isaac P. C'iiddington.
The Winter Hill Universalist Parish was first organized at a meeting
held in the Methodist chapel on the corner of Marshall street and Broad
way on the evening of June 23, 1879. The officers elected at that meeting
were : Eli Smith, clerk ; J. L. Norcross, treasurer, who with G. T. Burnham,
Edward Glines and Samuel E. Currier constituted the parish committee.
Services were first held in the Methodist chapel, and later in Temple Hall,
Broadway, and the pulpit was at first supplied by such ministers as were
available. In October, 1879, Rev. William A. Start, secretary of the State Con
vention, took charge of the parish until June, 1880, when the Rev. R. Perry
Bush of Everett was secured as acting pastor, continuing as such until Jan
uary, 1888, when, a church having been built on the corner of Thurston
street and Evergreen avenue, the time of service was changed from after
noon to forenoon, which necessitated the severance of Mr. Bush's connec
tion with the parish.
The first regular resident pastor was settled in 1888. At a meeting of
the parish, held June 21, 1888, a unanimous call was extended to the Rev.
Isaac Philip Coddington, then of the Grove Hall Church, Boston. The
call was accepted, and the pastorate began the first Sunday of September of
that year, and it continues at the present time. In May, 1889, the name was
changed, on petition to the legislature, to that of Winter Hill Universalist
Church. The very best of good feeling and a large degree of prosperity
attend this church in all its many departments of Christian work.
The present officers are : Isaac Philip Coddington, pastor ; Parker
Ridler, president ; George Russ, clerk ; Herman Barker, treasurer, who to
gether with Erastus Woodward and Charles S. Robertson constitute the
board of trustees; I. B. Mayhew, superintendent of Sunday-school; Mrs.
C. E. Moore, president Ladies' Circle ; Albert Roscoe, president Y. P. C. U.
Ethel Moore, presicfent Golden Rule Society ; Gladys Coddington, presi
dent of the Busy Bees ; Isabella Porter, president of the Flower and Benevo
lent Mission.
SOMERVILLE EVANGELICAL ASSOCIATION CHURCH.
By Ri£V. William E. Fredericks.
This church was organized December 19, 1S92. Rev. Edward Freeman
was its pastor the first two years, until March, 1895, when W. E. Frede
ricks, of PennsylvEtnia, was appointed pastor. This church is purely Wes-
leyan in doctrine. While it gives due attention to all the doctrines taught
in the Word of God, it emphasizes the doctrines of thorough evangelical re
pentance, justification by faith, regeneration or the new birth, and entire
sanctification as necessary to obtain salvation. It emphasizes the privi
lege and necessity of living a holy life in this world. It is democratic in its
church polity. The pastor is appointed annually at the annual conference

Winter Hill Universalist Church, Thurston Street and Evergreen Avenue.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

of the conference district by the presiding bishop with the concurrence of
the presiding elders of the conference district. All the expenses of the
church are met by free-will offerings. The present membership is 34. Its
meetings are held in'Brazillian Hall, 271 Broadway.

Union Square Baptist Church. Prospect Hill Congregational Church. Flint Street M. E. Church.
Perkins Street Baptist Church. W. Somerville Baptist Church. St. Thomas' Episcopal Church.
Somerville Churches.

In addition to the foregoing there are a number of other churches in
Somerville, several of which have large congregations that are doing valu
able Christian work in the community.
They are named and located as follows : W'est Sg.merville Baptist,
on Elm street, corner of Winslow avenue, organized in June, 1874; St.
Joseph's (Catholic), on Washington street, corner of Webster avenue, ded
icated in June, 1881 ; Broadway Methodist Episcopal, on Broadway,
corner of Grant street; Flinj- Street Methodist, on Flint, opposite Rush
street, organi'/.ed in April, 1868, by Rev. Garrett Beekman, who was its first
pastor ; the Second Advent, on Putnam, near Summer street, organized
(~)ctober 6, 1887; the Second Unitarian, on Elm street, near Davis square ;
and the Church of Christ, on Broadway, North Somerville.

4

Somerville Hospital.

Horace C. White, M. D.

CHARITABLE AND SOCIAL
ORGANIZATIONS.

CHAPTER XXIV.
SOMERATLLE HOSPITAL.
By Hor.ace C. White, M. D.
In its issue of November 24, 1890, the " Somerville Journal" published
an article setting forth the need and the advantages of such an institution
for our city. This article attracted the attention of a benevolent lady. Miss
Martha R. Hunt, who immediately sent to the mayor, Hon. Charles G.
Pope, an offer to contribute the generous sum of $10,000 on condition that
a like sum be raised from other sources. The Somerville Medical Society
appointed a committee to raise funds, and several ladies assisted in the
work of soliciting and collecting subscriptions. In April, 1891, the hospital
was duly incorporated. The names of the charter members are as follows :
Charles G. Pope, John F. Cole, Thomas M. Durell, Horace C. White, A.
H. Carvill, J. F. Wellington, Q. E. Dickerman, M. W. Carr, William Tay
lor, A. T. Nickerson, S. H. Holland, G. \\'. Perkins, G. M. Starbird, L. W.
Farmer, R. E. Nickerson, Samuel Cutler, Joseph O. Hayden, J. F. Hatha
way, L. E. Merry, J. J. Lyons, F. M. Kilmer, J. H. Flitner, H. F. Spencer,
John F. Couch, Lewis Lombard, L. V. Niles, L. P. Hollander, and F". W.
Downer. On March 8, 1891, at a meeting of contributors, a report was presented
by Mayor Pope announcing that between $12,000 and $13,000 had been sub
scribed, and thus the gift of j!io,ooo had been made available. On May 11,
1891, was held the first meeting of the corporation, and committees were
appointed as follows : — Executive committee : Hon. C. G. Pope, ex officio,
H. C. White, A. H. Carvill, H. F. Spencer, M. W. Carr, J. F. WeUington,
T. M. Durell, ex officio. Finance committee : R. E. Nickerson, J. F. Couch,
F. M. Kilmer, F. W. Downer, J. H. Flitner. Auditing committee : J. O.
Hayden, G. W. Perkins.
The building was erected under the direction of the building committee,
consisting of the executive committee and A. T. Nickerson. On October
27, 1891, the contract for the construction of the building was awarded to
the lowest bidder, G. M. Starbird, for the sum of $22,990. The building
was practically completed February 17, 1893. Prior to this a gift of 55,000
was bequeathed to the hospital by the will of Rufus B. Stickney, who by
this act of noble charity erected to his memory a monument more enduring
than granite or marble.

334 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
The location is an ideal one, situated as it is on Spring Hill, and sur
rounded by streets on three sides, the abrupt descent of the hill on the
fourth side precluding the possibility of obstruction by other buildings.
The grounds are ample enough to permit the erection of additional build
ings sufficient to double its present capacity. The plan of construction is
such as to furnish a good supply of light and air. The building is so ar
ranged that bath-rooms, water-closets, etc., are separated from the patients'
rooms by cut-off corridors, but are not at an inconvenient distance. The
building for the sick is separated from the executive department by a corri
dor which allows free circulation of air between them ; the dining-room,
kitchen and laundry are separated in like manner from the rest of the
building. The whole arrangement of the rooms is such as to give sufficient
isolation of patients, and at the same time there is everywhere a cheerful
and homelike appearance.
The corporation consists of contributors and others who render valuable
aid in the maintenance of the hospital. The trustees are chosen from the
members of the corporation, one-third of them being chosen yearly for a
term of three years. The first president of the board of trustees was Hon.
Charles G. Pope, who died just before it was dedicated; the second, Hon.
William H. Hodgkins, who resigned the office in June, 1896.
In accordance with the by-laws the board of trustees consists of
twenty-four members besides the president, vice-president, clerk and treas
urer, two members being selected from each ward by the corporation annu
ally, said members being chosen for a term of three years. The medical
board consists of four physicians, of whom two shall be Fellows of the Mass
achusetts Medical Society, and two members of the Massachusetts Homoeo
pathic Medical Society, appointed by the executive committee for terms of
two years. It is the duty of this board to provide for the medical and surgical ser
vice of the hospital, and to recommend to the executive committee candidates
for appointment on the medical staff. Physicians and surgeons who assist
in the charitable work of the hospital receive no pecuniary compensation
therefor. The management is such as to leave freedom of choice of physi
cians, a member of the above societies being on duty all the time. The
same spirit of liberality is shown in regard to choice of spiritual advisers.
The matron reported four hundred and fifty patients treated in 1895, of
whom one hundred and nine underwent surgical operations ; this was an
increase in the whole number of one hundred and twenty-five over the pre
ceding year. By the matron's report in May, 1896, it appears there were six
hundred and forty-five patients treated during the year, of whom three hun
dred and forty-six were out-patients.
The total expenditures from May, 1895, to May, 1896, were $12,115.21,
and $1,473.11 was expended for repairs of an extraordinary nature. The
largest number of patients was thirty-seven, on December 12, and the small
est, fifteen, on July 14. Those paying numbered one hundred and eighty-
two, and non-paying, one hundred and nineteen.

Thomas M. Durell, M. D.

Reuben Willis, M.D.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 337
The training school for nurses contained fifteen pupils aside from those
who were graduated. Their earnings outside of regular hospital work were
?i ,520.18, which is $912.94 in excess of the amount received from this source
the previous year. The average cost per patient was S9.32 per week, while
for the year 1895 it was $9.59.
The expenses compared with those of other hospitals are less than
many and do not exceed any of them. The interest manifested from the
first by the Ladies' Aid and other societies continues unabated, and many of
our large-hearted and liberal-minded citizens have made generous donations
for the continued support of the grand work which the hospital is performing
for the people of Somerville. Many who share the benefits of the institu
tion have in reality no home where they can be cared for by loving hands,
and often those who have all the comforts that a competency affords prefer
in case of sickness to enter the hospital, where all the advantages of the best
medical attendance and the most skilful and experienced nursing and care
may be had at all times. While those who are able are expected to pay for
services rendered, none who are without means are excluded from its doors.
In order to provide suitable furnishings for the various rooms and
wards, many of our citizens and generous ladies made liberal donations.
The physician's offices were furnished by Mrs. A. A. Sanborn; the trus
tees' room by the Sons and Daughters of Maine; the matron's office by L.
W. Farmer ; the woman's ward by the Somerville Union of King's Sons and
Daughters. Private rooms for patients were furnished complete by Mr. and
Mrs. Henry F. Spencer, Ivaloo Lodge Daughters of Rebekah, Erminie
Lodge Daughters of Rebekah, Francis C. Perkins, Humphrey P. Webster
(who gave $500, the interest to keep the room supplied), S. Adams Clark,
Our Class Association and primary department First Unitarian Sunday-
school, R. H. Sturtevant, Prospect Hill school and others furnished the
children's ward, and Mrs. G. M. Scott, the children's playroom ; and valu
able contributions of furnishings were donated by S. Newton Cutler, Harri
son Beard & Co., Mr. H. M. Beals, Ladies' Hospital Aid Association, Sun
day-school of Franklin Street (First) Congregational Church, St. Mary's
Circle King's Daughters, Misses Ethel Cobb, Maud Shaw, Ruby White,
Grace Plummer, Milton Harvey, Albert E. Hughes, C. F. Goldthwaite &
Co., I. H. Brown, Miss Earl's Sunday-school class, George Gammon, Mrs.
Col. King, employees of Derby, Kilmer & Pond Desk Co., Mrs. James F.
Davlin, Mr. and Mrs. G. P. Strong, Rebecca Dart, Little Helpers, King's
Daughters, Gertrude Jones, Davis school. Prospect Hill school, St. Mary's
Circle K. D., Ever Ready Ten K. D., Willa Johnson, Bertha Hopkins, Edna
Robbins, Lottie Draper, Charles G. Pope and Mrs. Pope, Dr. Anna B. Tay
lor, Miss L. A. Waters, A. S. Willard, Mrs. E. A. Curtis, Mrs. Ingalls,
Whatsoever Circle K. D., Broadway Congregational Church, E. PL Marsh,
Henry W. Tarbell, Grace, Bessie and -\lice Fuller.
Among those who contributed through the Ladies' Aid Association
may be mentioned Sarah S. Tufts, ;i5ioo, the Presbyterian Church, West
Somerville Congregational Church, Shepard & Norwell, R. E. Pickthall,

338 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
West Somerville Baptist Church, West Somerville Universalist Church, St.
Agnes Circle King's Daughters, Mrs. J. B. Bolton, Grace L. Hodgkins, R.
H. Riddell, J. F. Hathaway, Mrs. S. D. Salmon's Circle K. D., E. A. South-
worth, John K. Whiting, Mrs. Ivory Pope and others. The contributors of
sums of $100 or more are the American Tube Works, Charles E. Clark, A.
H. Carvill, S. Cutler and wife, D. E. Chase & Co., Derby & Kilmer Desk
Co., F. W. Downer, Abbie S. David, employees S. Water Works, George P.
Edney, M. P. Elliott, J. H. Flitner, Friend, Charles H. Guild, Do. trustee,
A. B. Gookin, Miss Martha R. Hunt, Silas H. Holland, J. O. Hayden, L.
P. Hollander, J. F. Hathaway, Mrs. Sarah Hall, George W. Ireland and
wife, O. S. Knapp, C. W. Lyman & Co., Louis L. Lombard, Ladies' Aid
Association, A. E. Mann, Rev. C. T. McGrath, L. E. Merry, Middlesex
Bleachery, John Abbot Lodge, North Packing Company, R. E. Nickerson,
L. V. Niles, John F. Nickerson and wife. Our Class Association, Elm Coun
cil R. A., F. H. Raymond, Ezra B. Robinson, Wilbur P. Rice, John P.
Squire, Somerville Fire Department, Jonathan Stone, R. H. Sturtevant,
Somerville Police Force, Union Hall Co., Lucy M. Stone, G. W. Simpson,
H. F. Spencer, R. B. Stickney, Mrs. George M. Starbird, estate of, Francis
Tufts, Martha Tufts, Chas. Williams, Jr., A. H. Weld, A. A. Perry, ex
ecutor of will of Christiana D. Webber, and Willard C. Kinsley Post G. A. R.
All the churches have made contributions from time to time. No other in
stitution of Somerville appeals to every resident of whatever party or sect as
does this, and the donations have come from nearly every social organiza
tion and from hundreds of residents, although the majority of the gifts have
been in moderate sums.
The treasurer's report. May 30, 1896, shows the following facts and
figures : — assets.
Land and buildings $42,146.22
Furnishings . 2,684.37
Surgical instruments . 390.81
Starbird fund . . 500.00
Webster fund . . . 500.00
Edney fund ... . 400.00
Cash on hand . . 1,166.77

§47,788.17

LIABILITIES.
Cambridgeport Savings Bank . $10,000.00
Somerville National Bank . 1,000.00
Excess over liabilities 36,788.17

$47,788.17
This does not include a large number of contributions of furnishings
and supplies which were given directly to the hospital and did not go
through the treasurer's hands, which amount to probably several thousand
dollars.

Alphonso H. Carvill, M. D.

Henry F. Curtis, M.D.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .IND PRESENT. 341
The dedication of the building was an occasion of great interest. A
writer in describing it said : " Early in the afternoon the institution was
thrown open to visitors, and the corridors were thronged with women and
children and a fair sprinkling of men. It is not too much to say that they
were rather astonished at the completeness of the arrangements, the beauty
of the furnishings, and, best of all, at the immaculate neatness and cleanli
ness of the whole establishment. ... It was easy to see that the public felt
it was their hospital. It represented even to the children some act of self-
denial, some gift of money to make the enterprise a success." In the even
ing the dedicatory exercises were in charge of Mayor Hodgkins as presiding
officer, who paid a touching tribute to the late Charles G. Pope, and closed
an eloquent address by saying that his heart had been stirred by the sight
of the crowds in attendance, and that the immense gathering of the friends
of the institution meant that the people intended to support it.
The Hon. S. Z. Bowman, cit}- solicitor of Somerville, said : " This hos
pital is one of the crowning features of our city. Our educational institu
tions have grown upon our hills, and now we have reached a fitting climax
in the erection of this hospital. The parable of the Good Samaritan has
come down through the ages as the highest type of Christianity. This im
mense gathering shows that this establishment has a warm place in the
hearts of the people."
Dr. H. O. Marcy, of Boston, in the course of his remarks, expressed the
opinion that there should be more small hospitals, not only in Cambridge
and Somerville, but in Boston. He declared it better than to have hun
dreds of patients gathered under one roof and treated in gross, and said
that in such institutions a few patients could enjoy the comforts of home
and the care of trained nurses. Rev. J. F. Lovering stated that there had
been nothing in the city which had so " drawn the people together in the
spirit of the golden rule as this hospital." Another speaker said one pecu
liarity of the institution was the uniting of both schools of medicine on its
board of trustees, declaring that there should be no sect in medicine, and
that in the presence of man's greatest need there should be but one thought,
how to cure disease. The policy of its management from the first has been
so liberal that it has been possible for every creed, nat'ionality, sect and
race, to join equally in wishing it Godspeed, and to unite in carrying on its
great work of charity and mercy.
The benefits derived by the community from such an institution are not
confined to its high mission in ministering to the sick ; it serves as a com
mon bond of union between the different sections of the city, and the vari
ous elements of which it is composed.
A feeling of responsibility for its care and maintenance is shared by all
our people, and by responding to its calls for aid they have learned by happy
experience the truth of the passage of Scripture which says, " It is more
blessed to give than to receive."
To put in successful operation an institution of this kind is no easy
task, and the care of raising the needed funds should in the main devolve

342 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
upon others rather than those who are responsible for details of manage
ment, which must of necessity be a matter of daily effort and constant labor.
The success of the management in securing revenue from paying patients,
and the advantages derived from the training school for nurses in furnish
ing increased income, may well be a source of gratification to our citizens.
The hospital is one of the many institutions of the city in which every citi
zen is justified in feeling an honest pride.
The officers for 1896 are as follows: president, Martin W. Carr;
vice-president, Selwyn Z. Bowman ; treasurer, John F. Cole ; clerk, Fred
erick W. Stone.
Trustees. — Ward I : Horace C. White, William Taylor, George M.
Starbird, Charles Williams, Jr., John F. Nickerson, George W. Perkins.
Ward II : Alphonso H. Carvill, J. Frank Wellington, Quincy A. Vinal,
Louville V. Niles, John F. Couch, Thomas M. Durell. Ward III : Henry
F. Spencer, Alvano T. Nickerson, Luke N. Farmer, B. Frank Wild, Frederick
M. Kilmer, Quincy E. Dickerman. Ward IV J. Henry Flitner, George O.
Proctor, James F. Hathaway, Louis E. Merry, Joseph O. Hayden, Edmund
S. Sparrow. Medical Board. — Horace C. White, M. D. ; Thomas M. Durell, M. D. ;
A. H. Carvill, M. D. ; Frank L. Newton, M. D.
Members of Mass. Medical Society. — Hospital staff : Thomas Durell,
M. D. ; Horace C. White, M. D. ; William A. Bell, M. D. ; Horace P.
Makechine, M. D. ; John F. Couch, M. D. ; Reuben Willis, M. D. As
sistants : Giles W. Bryant, M. D. ; Henry F. Curtis, M. D. ; Edwin H.
Codding, M. D. ; George A. Miles, M. D. ; John B. Curtis, M. D. ; G. W.
W. Whiting, M. D.
Members of Mass. Homoeopathic Medical Society. — Hospital staff : A.
H. Carvill, M. D. ; Robert L. Lane, M. D. ; Gilbert E. Hetherington,
M. D. ; H. Ashton Downs, M. D. ; Forrest Leavitt, M. D. ; Frank L. New
ton, M. D. Assistants : Emma J. Peasley, M. D. ; Anna B. Taylor-Cole,
M. D. ; Eugenie M. Phillips, M. D. ; Mary B. Currier, M. D. Matron:
Emma J. Gordon.

George W. W. Whiting, M. D.

Residence of Dr. G. W. W. Whiting, 280 Broadway.

Frank L. Newton, M.D.

Emma J. Gordon.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 347
HOSPITAL LADIES' 'AID ASSOCIATION.
By Em.ma j. Peasley, M.D.
After the completion and opening of the Somerville Hospital, it was
deemed wise by those familiar with its needs that there should be some
organized systematic method of securing the necessary funds for carrying
on the work. Accordingly several ladies and gentlemen met at the home of
Mr. Rufus R. Wade, talked the matter over, and decided that an association
which would enlist the sympathies and interest of the ladies of the city
would be a sure means of obtaining the desired assistance.
A meeting was appointed at the Broadway Congregational Church on
Sycamore street, on May i8, 1892. Invitations were sent to the pastors of
all churches, which were read from the pulpit, inviting the ladies of the
church and congregation to be present. About one hundred responded, and
the organization of the Somerville Hospital Ladies' Aid Association was
effected with the election of the following officers : president. Dr. Emma J.
Peasley ; vice-presidents representing the four wards of the city, Mrs.
Harrison Aldrich, Mrs. William Hartshorn, Mrs. J. F. Lovering, Mrs. Henry
Berins ; directors representing the different religious denominations in the
city, Mrs. William H. Brine, Mrs. Arthur T. Kidder, Mrs. S. D. Salmon,
Mrs. A. C. Winning, Mrs. Horace C. White, Mrs. Albert Hughes,- Mrs. F.
M. Howes, Mrs. C. S. Dewing, Mrs. H. M. Burgess — these with the vice-
presidents constituting a board of directors for the ensuing year ; record
ing secretary, Mrs. Jason P. Routh ; corresponding secretary. Miss Emma
S. Keyes ; treasurer, Mrs. Albert S. Pillsbury.
The society became incorporated in February of the following year,
and the charter adorns the walls of the trustees' room at the hospital.
Most of the ladies present at the organization signed as inembers of
the association, and the membership increased with unparalleled rapidity
compared to other organizations in the city, until between nine hundred and
a thousand ladies and gentlemen had agreed to give one dollar annually to
ward the support of the hospital, and six persons joined as life members by
the payment of twenty dollars.
One of the first and most important steps taken by the society was the
establishing of a day known as Hospital Sunday, when each church in the
city takes a collection, which in the first year amounted to over twelve hun
dred dollars, the money passing directly into the hands of Mr. John F.
Cole, treasurer of the hospital.
Dr. Anna Taylor Cole and Dr. Emma J. Peasley have each given a
course of lectures, and two receptions, a concert and an opera have been
given under the direction of the association, the proceeds of which, with the
funds collected by the members, and donations, have netted many dollars
for the work. This with the annual dues is used as the association ap
proves, either to buy furnishings for the building, or it is presented to the
treasurer of the hospital to be used by the trustees at their discretion.

Emma J. Peasley, M.D.

Anna B. Taylor-Cole, M.D.

Eugenie M. Phillips, M. D.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 35 I
The members assisted at the dedication of the building, and at all the
social gatherings at the hospital. Two members of the board of directors
in turn visit the inmates and supply the needs of the hospital as far as pos
sible, twice a week for a month.
The president for 1896 is Mrs. Harrison Aldrich; secretary. Miss Sarah
A. Stone, 9 Central street; treasurer. Miss Bertha Knapp, 28 School street.
ASSOCIATED CHARITIES OF SOMERVILLE.
By Emma .S. Keyes.
The Associated Charities of Somerville was formed on December 14,
1893. The organizing of Associated Charities had occasionally been talked
of and desired by a few in different parts of the city, but it was not until the
hard times of '93 actually forced the need of organized effort upon the at
tention of a large number that this society was at last formed.
Springing up suddenly though it did, the chief organizers gave many
hours at a time to the consideration of the principles and methods that like
societies of long experience had found to be the wisest and most practical.
The foundation of a permanent charitable organization was thus laid upon
thoroughly tested principles.
The objects of the society are : " To secure the concurrent and har
monious action of the different charities in Somerville in order to raise the
needy above the need of relief, prevent begging and imposition, and dimin
ish pauperism ; to encourage thrift, self-dependence and industry through
friendly intercourse, and to aid the poor to help themselves ; to prevent
children from growing up as paupers ; and to aid in the diffusion of knowledge
on subjects connected with the relief of the poor."
In the heart of winter, and in the midst of a season of financial distress
and acute poverty, the new organization found itself, with inexperienced
helpers, untried methods and an empty treasury, suddenly overwhelmed by
calls for aid and action. The urgency of the situation helped to solve itself.
The citizens cordially adopted the new organization as their agent, and
gave it their complete confidence.
The work was organized by distributing it among ward committees.
Each of these considered calls for aid in its own district, and found help for
deserving and needy cases. It held meetings monthly or, as occasion re
quired, even more frequently, provided for a force of friendly visitors
opened an office in its limits, and secured, free of charge, the services of a
secretary to give certain hours at the office, have immediate charge of af
fairs and keep the records of the ward.
These ward committees combined form the central board of manage
ment, to which all doubtful and difficult cases are referred, and which has
general supervision of the work. The office in ward three, in the Citizen
Building, Gilman square, was made the central office, and its secretary,
general agent of the Charities.
Up to September i, 1896, the number of cases of need reported to and

3 52 SOMERVILLE, PAST .IND PRESENT.
investigated by this society is 387. Of these 292 have been assisted, 38
proved to have given false addresses, and the rest were mostly in need of
employment alone, as were also many others. About one-half of these peo
ple are Americans, the other half represents eleven nationalities. Special
work has been done in 54 cases, such as furnishing legal and medical
assistance, finding homes for children, new homes for families, board in the
country for the overworked, etc. By far the greater proportion were found
to be worthy, respectable people, anxious to help themselves, suffering
through no apparent fault of their own, but through misfortune, sickness, or
want of employment. Fully two-thirds had never before received help.
Efforts to stop begging have in many instances been effectual, and public
exposure of impostors has materially lessened the number in the city, though
in one instance even arrest and six months' confinement have not been
sufficient to deter other members of the same family from begging and
using the name of this society the better to impose upon the credulous.
A complete system of registration enables the agent at the central office
to exchange information with charitable bodies at home and in other cities,
and is of great value especially in the handling of those chronic and re
curring cases which drift from place to place, and besiege successively
different charitable societies and individuals.
All records are private, and their information is given only to those who
will use them for charitable purposes.
A free employment-bureau connected with the work of the Associated
Charities depends necessarily for success upon the patronage of the citizens.
The one great demand is for work, and it is this above all things that the
unemployed need to be assisted in obtaining, to save them from pauperism
and the demoralizing influence of almsgiving. Employment even at low
wages would solve two-thirds of the difficulties of the poor of all classes.
In some instances the society has furnished plain sewing, paying a fair
price according to the quality of the work done. This is intended to be
educational in some cases, as many do not understand the cutting and
making of the most simple garments, while others are apt and skillful with
the needle. Last spring the stamp-saving system was introduced with the
object of encouraging provident habits even among the children. Without
expense or any risk of loss one can hereby save from a cent to fifty cents and
receive for it a receipt in the form of a stamp placed upon a folding card,
which can be redeemed at any time, three dollars entitling one to a bank-book
and interest.
The gratitude expressed by nearly all who have been befriended has
been hearty and sincere. Statistics cannot register the best that has been
accomplished, for the aim of the society is personal rather than material, to
help the man as well as to relieve the body, to bring comfort and cheer into
home and heart, to maintain self-respect, to stimulate self-support, to restore
to work and health persons and families without loss of courage or dignity,
and clear of any sense of stain or stigma from their temporary period of
dependence.

Residence of Nathan H. Reed, 35 Pearl Street.

fs^

Emory L. White, M.D.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 355
In this effort, notwithstanding many failures, success, as a rule, has
been so satisfactory that, could the simple facts be known to the citizens of
Somerville, they would feel themselves amply rewarded for all they have
expended through the Associated Charities, and would continue to support
the organization liberally. The officers for 1896 are : Rev. Charles L. Noyes,
president, 29 Albion street; Rev. L. M. Powers, secretary, 18 Flint street;
Mr. Nathan H. Reed, treasurer, 35 Pearl street; Miss Emma S. Keyes,
agent, 154 Central street.
SOMERVILLE SAMARITAN SOCIETY.
By Elizabeth Arkowsmith Waters.
The Somerville Samaritan Society was organized November 13, 1871,
at the home of Elizabeth A. Waters, 132 Perkins street, for the purpose of
assisting and relieving the needs of the worthy poor in the town of Somer
ville, and it rounded out its twenty-five years of charitable work November
9, 1896. The first meeting was held on Wednesday afternoon, November 8, 1871,
at which a committee of four ladies (Mary Davis, Carrie Prescott, Mrs. H.
P. Hemenway and Julia Warden) were chosen to draw up a constitution to
be presented at a meeting to be held on the following Monday evening,
November 13.
The first regular meeting was held with Miss Waters, and a constitu
tion for the society was presented and adopted.
The following list of officers was presented and elected : Miss Lizzie
A. Waters, president; Mrs. Geo. H. Crosby, vice-president; Mrs. Chas. H.
Buswell, secretary; Miss Helen U. Edgerly, assistant secretary; Mrs.
Albert E. Hughes, treasurer. Directresses : Mrs. Chas. Williams, Jr., Mrs.
H. P. Hemenway, Mrs. Chas. Crane, Mrs. John F. Cole, Mrs. Wethern,
Mrs. P. Ford, Jr., Mrs. David Crane, Misses Kate Fletcher, Anna M.
Knight, S. Fannie Gerry, Emily Knowles, Nellie Parker, Carrie Prescott,
Belle Dalton, Ella Runey, Emma Brown, Susie Davis. The society was
named in courtesy to Mrs. Waters and daughter, who were officers in the
Samaritan Society of Boston at the time of their removal to Somerville, and
members until the society became the North End Dispensary.
When the Samaritan Society was organized, it was the only social and
charitable society in the town, if we may except those connected with the
churches. The charity work extended to every part of the city, and the
Christmas donations are something pleasant to be remembered, for baskets
of stores, and warm clothing, contributed by members and friends, foLind
their way each year to scores of families whose appreciation of them made
us feel that it was "more blessed to give than to receive.'' The form of
meetings was sewing until nine o'clock p.m., when the work was gathered
up, and the incoming of the gentlemen added much to the pleasure of the
evening. Music, singing and games followed with now and then a " Vir
ginia Reel." The meetings were attended by over one hundred members.

3 56 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
the largest enrolled membership for anyone year being 124. If we look
about now, we find that organized societies have become legion, but none
among them all have yet filled the place of this association, for notwith
standing its depleted membership, and more limited resources, it has gone
steadily on with the humane work.
The members of this society both past and present have reason to feel
gratified with the report of these many years. The society has received
during this period, from entertainments in the form of fairs, suppers, con
certs and lectures, the sum of $4,512.61. The yearly assessments have
amounted to $768.24, and the interest on deposits of money $192, making a
total of $5,472.85.
The society received a " Bequest " from Mrs. Geo. H. Crosby, Novem
ber 28, 1885, increasing the sum to $5,672.85. Mrs. Crosby was an earnest
and interested officer from the formation of the society until called to her
"higher" work. Many other gifts received were at once sent to families
for whom they were intended.
There has been expended during these years, for groceries, boots and
shoes, wood and coal, rents, funeral expenses, and material for clothing, the
sum of $5,660.85, leaving a balance in the treasury of $12. For the amount
expended there have been given 2,117 orders for poor and needy families
to the number of over three hundred, and this does not include the hun
dreds of garments which have found their way into these many homes, con
tributed from all parts of the city, while the influence of this work has gone
out far and wide to arouse assistance from other sources.
It has been through the work and experiences of this society that the
needs of a children's home and day nurseries were seen to be a necessity,
and it is hoped that the future will see these charities well established, and
handsomely supported.
Miss Waters remained president three years, Mrs. P. Ford, Jr., suc
ceeding in 1874, one year; Mrs. James N. Clark, two years, 1875, 1876; Mrs.
George H. Crosby, two years, 1877, 1878; Mrs. E. B. Wilson, two years,
1879, 1880 ; Mrs. S. C. Lund, one year, 1881 ; Mrs. J. C. Thomas, two years,
1882, 1883; Mrs. H. M. Morse, 1884; Mrs. L. Timson, two years, 1885,
1886, when Miss Waters was again chosen to fill the office, and has re
tained it until the present year, with the following officers : vice-president,
Mrs. H. M. Burgess ; secretary, Miss S. L. Chandler ; treasurer, Mrs. J. C.
Thomas ; wardrobe keeper, Mrs. E. A. Goodale. Directresses : Mrs. H.
W. Burgess, Mrs. B. P. Palmer, Mrs. J. H. Weston, Mrs. L. Bowker, Mrs.
E. A. Goodale, Mrs. I. H. Wiley, Mrs. B. G. Chaffee, Mrs. E. L. Davis,
Mrs. D. W. Sanborn, Mrs. J. H. Litchfield, Miss .\. U. Knight, Mrs. F.
Gertrude Porter.

Elizabeth A. Waters.

^ ..-'!*#>'

Albert E. Hughes.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 359

SOMERVILLE DAY NURSERY.
The existence of this nursery is due to the desire of the Helen Hunt
Circle of King's Daughters to establish in Somerville a charity which should
protect children left uncared for while their mothers are at work.
For this object they contributed nearly one hundred dollars, and in
March, 1893, a number of ladies from different parts of the city met at the
house of Mrs. Niles, and organized and, in the following June, opened the
nursery with a matron, housekeeper, and five children.
At present the children average from seventeen to twenty-five daily, the
number at times rising to thirty. This increase has necessitated the em
ployment of an assistant. The ages of the children vary from seven months
to ten years.
This institution is non-sectarian, and is supported by voluntary sub
scriptions of one dollar or more annually, and by donations of wood, coal
and provisions. The cost of caring for a child per day is twenty-five cents,
of which the mother is required to pay five cents.
The homes of the children are often visited by the matron, and every
case carefully investigated. Besides the legitimate work of the nursery, aid
is rendered in other cases when necessary, employment by the day found
for mothers, and positions secured for young girls.
The house is open from 7 a. m. to 5 p. m. every day, excepting Sundays
and holidays. All applications for admission are made to the matron, Ellen
E. Mason. Officers of the Day Nursery : president, Mrs. L. V. Niles ; vice-presi
dents, Mrs. G. W. Simpson, Mrs. A. H. Carvill ; treasurer, Mrs. J. A. Clark ;
corresponding secretary, Mrs. C. S. Dewing; recording secretary, Miss
Helen Tincker ; auditor. Miss F. W. Kaan. Board of directors : Mrs. C. P.
Battelle, Mrs. James Brown, Mrs. J. H. Butler, Mrs. A. H. Carvill, Mrs.
E. J. Chilson, Mrs. J. A. Clark, Mrs. E. A. Conant, Mrs. H. P. Conant,
Mrs. C. S. Dewing, Mrs. H. S. Farnham, Mrs. Edward Foote, Mrs. J. O.
Hayden, Mrs. C. M. Howes, Mrs. A. E. Hughes, Mrs. S. E. Gilcrease, Miss
F. W. Kaan, Mrs. L. V. Niles, Dr. E. M. Phillips, Mrs. J. L. Potter, Mrs.
N. H. Reed, Mrs. G. W. Simpson, Mrs. Arthur Smith, Mrs. F. M. Stodder,
Mrs. J. E. Sylvester, Mrs. E. L. Tead, Miss Minnie Tead, Miss Helen
Tincker, Mrs. W. E. Weld, Mrs. J. F. \\'ellington, Mrs. C. A. West, Mrs.
E. B. West.
The Day Nursery is located at 144 \\'ashington street.

A^vUatd C. Kinsley p^

St

No. 139, Department of iMass.,
G. A. R.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 361
WILLARD C. KINSLEY POST G. A. R.
Prepared by a Co.mmittee of the Post.
Post 139 G. A. R. was chartered August 16, 1870, and was mustered
as a post October 20 of that year, with twenty-eight charter members, eight
of whom, viz. : J. H. Dusseault, John Kennedy, Elkanah Crosby, Sanford
Hanscom, C. H. Crane, W. H. Thomas, M. C. Parkhurst and J. W. Oliver,
are still active members.
In selecting the name of Willard C. Kinsley for the post, the veterans
of Somerville felt it a pleasant duty to perpetuate the memory of a soldier
who is remembered by his old comrades as one of the bravest and most
popular men who ever led a company.
Mr. Kinsley first enlisted in April, 1861, as a private in Capt. Brastow's
company of the Fifth Regiment, and served with honor through the three
months' campaign ; he then re-enlisted for three years and was commissioned
as second lieutenant of Company E (Somerville Company) of the Thirty-
ninth Regiment; he soon received a merited promotion to the first lieu
tenancy and then to the captaincy, in which position he won and held
the love and respect of his men to a degree such as few officers attain ; a
perfect leader in the field, he was as one of their own number when off duty,
and his kindness and care for the sick and wounded were like those of a
brother. He led his men through many battles, and was slightly wounded
in the head June 17, 1864. He kept with his company, however, until at
almost the close of the war, on March 31, 1865, at Gravelly Run, Va., just
prior to Lee's surrender, he fell mortally wounded and died on the following
day. For the first few years of its organization the post grew rapidly and
attained a membership of about two hundred ; it then gradually declined,
as did nearly all posts of the G. A. R., until the year 1882, when, the work
being taken up on partially new lines, the increase was again rapid until
over three hundred names were enrolled, and the roster continues at about
that number at the present time.
The muster-rolls of the post during its twenty-six years of existence
have contained the names of men engaged in almost all professions and
business pursuits, many of whom have been honored by the political pref
erence of their fellow-citizens in State and city offices. In the list are
included four ex-mayors, viz. : Brastow, Bruce, Cummings and Hodgkins,
and many of the other members are filling positions of trust with credit to
themselves in other lines of employment. The tenets of the order are
Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty ; but although the fraternal ties and meet
ings of the veterans are of inestimable value and pleasure to themselves, and
they have ever been ready by practice and by the teaching of the principles
of loyalty to country and flag to assist in promoting a healthy sentiment
among the younger generation which shall tend to perpetuate our free and
enlightened government, the chief aim and object of the order is charity.

362 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
which is bestowed not only among its own members, but among all who
fought in the Civil War now living in our midst, who, through disease or old
age, have become incapacitated from gaining a livelihood ; these together
with the widows and orphan children of those who have passed away have
been assisted, together with others who were needy and destitute. In the
conscientious performance of this duty the post is recognized as a prime
factor in charitable work in this city, having disbursed over $13,000 in
cash, nearly two-thirds of which went to persons outside the membership of
the post. The organization has always assisted other charitable enterprises, not
ably in late years : during the hard times of the winter of 1893-4 it made a
donation of $200 to the Associated Charities of Somerville, and later its
members assisted in the Hospital Fair, and were enabled to contribute about
$225 to the fund for that institution.
In its work the post has been aided very materially by its auxiliary,
the Woman's Relief Corps, the membership of which is composed of loyal
ladies who are ever ready, as were those in the days of 1861-5, to do all in
their power to aid the soldiers ; it has also been greatly assisted by the
generous patronage which has been given by the citizens of Somerville to
all the enterprises it has gotten up for cjiaritable purposes.
The commanders of the post have been: C. F. King, 1870-1 ; H. E.
Hill, 1872; J. H. Dusseault, 1873; T. J. Buffum, 1874; G. H. Burroughs,
1875; W. W. Woodbury, 1876; W. E. Halladay, 1877; G. B. Clark, 1878;
J. H. Soule, 1879 (died in office) ; Dennis Kelley, 1879 (unexpired term);
John Kennedy, 1880 ; J. M. Woods, 1881 ; Martin Binney, 1882 ; C. F. King,
1883-4; J. F. Davlin, 1885; M. D. Jones, 1886; Walter Winward, 1887;
John Kelley, 1888; C. H. Colgate, 1889; H. B. Sellon, 1890; Henry Rich
ardson, 1891 ; A. C. Stacy, 1892; E. H. Gooding, 1893; C. O. Pratt, 1894;
G. H. Clapp, 1895 ; and G. M. Stevens, 1896. The present place of meeting
is in Grand Army Hall, Citizen Building, Gilman square.

Martin Binney.

James F. Davlin.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 365
WILLARD C. KINSLEY RELIEF CORPS.
By Mary E. Elliot.
That the loyal women of America realized their responsibilities during
the Civil War, is a fact interwoven in almost all its history.
On fields of battle, in the hospitals of the North and the South, in halls
and churches and in the home they toiled for the Union cause and its brave
volunteers. The highest principles of womanhood and of patriotism were exempli
fied by their efforts, and the statement that "there were heroines as well as
heroes in that war," is verified on many pages of its records.
When, soon after peace was declared, the Grand Army of the Republic
organized to conduct a work of Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty, its princi
ples appealed again to the hearts of loyal women. They realized that,
though the battlefields were silent, the suffering caused by the war remained.
Societies of women were formed in many cities and towns to co-operate
with posts of the Grand Army of the Republic in their beneficent work.
One of the first of these societies to bear the name of a post was or
ganized in Somerville, March 17, 1878, as Willard C. Kinsley Relief Corps.
Much interest was manifested at the regular meetings which were held
in Bow Street Hall, and successful entertainments enabled the corps to
establish a relief fund of several hundred dollars.
The members were also active in raising funds for the Soldiers' Home
Bazaar held in Mechanics Building, Boston, in December, 1881.
A few days previous to the opening of the bazaar, the corps president
received a check for $125 from Mr. Henry F. Spencer, on behalf of the
trustees of the Columbus Tyler estate, it being the surplus (with interest)
remaining in the Somerville war fund of which Mr. Tyler had charge.
This amount and the receipts of the corps table gave Somerville the credit
of being represented in the efforts to establish a soldiers' home in Massa
chusetts. In May, 1882, Willard C. Kinsley Corps reorganized on a broader basis
and became a branch of the Department of Massachusetts Woman's Relief
Corps, a State organization which was formed in Fitchburg in 1879. Mrs.
E. Florence Barker, department president, and Mrs. Sarah E. Fuller, de
partment secretary at that time, conducted the institution which was held
in Bow Street Hall. They installed the officers in the evening, when promi
nent guests were present representing the clergy and city officials of
Somerville, and friends from other sections of the State.
Willard C. Kinsley Post attended the exercises in a body.
The corps was entered upon the roster at department headquarters as
No. 21, there having been twenty corps previously organized under the
direction of the Department of Massachusetts \N. R. C.
There were thirty-six charter members, and they (and all who have sub-

Mary E. Elliot.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 367
sequently taken the obligation) have pledged support to the following ob
jects, which form a part of the rules and regulations of the order : —
" To specially aid and assist the Grand Army of the Republic, and to
perpetuate the memory of the heroic dead.
"To assist such Union veterans as need our help and protection, and to
extend needful aid to their widows and orphans.
" To find them homes and employment, and assure them of sympath}'
and friends.
" To cherish and emulate the deeds of our army nurses and of all loj'al
women who rendered loving service to our country in her hour of peril.
" To maintain true allegiance to the United States of America ; to in
culcate lessons of patriotism and love of country among our children and in
the communities in which we live ; and to encourage the spread of universal
liberty and equal rights to all."
That Corps 21 has been loyal to these objects is fully shown by its rec
ords. Over a thousand dollars have been expended in relief since 1882, but
this does not represent the full value of its work in this direction. The in
vestigation of numerous cases, the visits to the sick, and poor but worthy
claimants upon our gratitude, the distribution of food and clothing, and
other duties have been promptly performed by the relief committee that
has served from year to year with great efficiency.
Corps 21 has aided Post 139 in two large fairs, and has co-operated in
its plans for the proper observance of Memorial Day.
The two bodies have each a conference committee, " to confer concern
ing matters of mutual interest, in order to strengthen the relations and per
fect the work for which these organizations are mutually pledged."
Union gatherings are occasionally held, and the corps has often wel
comed the comrades at anniversaries, receptions, suppers and other
gatherings, and the post has extended the same courtesy to its auxiliary.
The two organizations have worked together in harmony, each having a re
gard for the other's interests.
At the tenth anniversary of the corps, in Ma}', 1892, a beautiful silk
banner was presented as a testimonial by the post. A Bible, a flag and
guidon are among the gifts received by the post from its auxiliary corps.
At the silver anniversary of the post, in October, 1895, a large portrait of
one of its honored members — Mayor William H. Hodgkins — was pre
sented by the corps, the members of which were present as guests.
During the past few years the subject of patriotic teaching in the public
schools has been a special feature of relief corps work throughout the
country. Fully realizing the importance of this movement. Corps 21 voted
to petition the school board of Somerville to introduce a " salute to the
flag '' into the public schools. With a view of awakening a deeper interest
in the subject, a "flag meeting" was held in the (Old) Unitarian Church on
Highland avenue, on the evening of December 16, 1894.
A large and enthusiastic audience enjoyed the program presented.
Pupils from the Pope and Forster schools exemplified the flag salutes, and

368 SOAIER VILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT.
addresses were made by Mayor William H. Hodgkins, several clergymen
of the city, members of the school committee, department officers W. R. C,
and others. Patriotic singing added interest to the exercises. When the
petition was formally presented to the school board, it was favorably con
sidered. In response to the appeal of the trustees of the Somerville Hospital, for
the fair held in the (Old) Unitarian Church, the corps furnished a table,
and visits to the hospital are often made by our members.
Aside from the local work undertaken. Corps 21 has manifested an in
terest in the Soldiers' Home on Powderhorn Hill in Chelsea. Assistance
was rendered the soldiers' home carnival held in Mechanics Building,
Boston, in 1885, and the military fair held in Music Hall, Boston, in 1892.
An entertainment is annually given at the home and appreciated by the
veterans, as are also the delicacies distributed on these visits. Several
contributions have been given the home at various times. A pleasing inci
dent of the visit this year (1896) was the gift of plants to the inmates, that
they might have a flower garden of their own.
The department relief fund for special cases reported at headquarters
and the memorial fund for the care of soldiers' widows and army nurses
have received liberal contributions from Corps 21. All other appeals from
department headquarters for special objects have met with a prompt re
sponse, and on each Memorial Day the corps sends a tribute for the un
known graves in the national cemeteries of the South.
A copy of the History of the Department of Massachusetts W. R. C.
— a bound volume of nearly four hundred pages — has recently been given
to the public library of Somerville. Regular meetings are held twice a
month in Grand Army Hall, Gilman square, and are largely attended. The
present membership is one hundred and sixty-one. A list of those who have
served as presidents is given, viz. . Miss Mary E. Elliot, Mrs. Harriet A.
Ralph, Mrs. Abbie J. Bean, Mrs. Ann C. Souther, Mrs. Rose A. Knapp,
Mrs. Eveline P. Robinson, Mrs. Helen F. Johnson, Mrs. Harriet A. Cham
berlin, Mrs. Helen M. McCuUy, Mrs. Fannie M. Jones, Mrs. Lydia P.
Hall, Mrs. Kate A. Stacy.
There are at the present time one hundred and seventy-two corps in
Massachusetts with a membership of fourteen thousand, and about two hun
dred thousand dollars have been expended for relief in this State alone.
Willard C. Kinsley Corps has an honored place on this roll, and is justly
entitled to recognition as one of the pioneer corps of the order.
Since its organization this auxiliary to the Grand Army of the Republic
has been formed in forty-four States and Territories, and numbers one hun
dred and thirty thousand patriotic women.
Over a million dollars have been expended for relief, a national home
for soldiers' widows and army nurses established, and also State homes
maintained, memorials erected in honor of martyred heroes, flags placed in
the public schools, and an educational work conducted in behalf of
patriotism that will have a permanent influence upon this generation.

James S. Sanborn.

Residence of James S. Sanborn, 383 Broadway.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 371

WOMAN'S CHRISTIAN TEMPERANCE UNION.
The West Somerville Woman's Christian Temperance Union was or
ganized in March, 1879, by Mrs. L. B. Barrett, then State secretary of the
Massachusetts W.C.T.U. The first president was Mrs. Person Davis, and
the first secretary Mrs. Harriet A. Chamberlin. There were nine charter
members. The union, which now consists of sixty-one members, has done,
in connection with the temperance work, much of a philanthropic nature.
It has also done more than any other organization toward making Somer
ville a no-license city. The present officers are : Mrs. A. S. C. Hill, presi
dent ; and Mrs. S. Addie Johnson, secretary. The fountain at Union square
was erected as a memorial to Mrs. Barrett, by the several unions of Somer
ville. SOMERVILLE FIREMAN'S RELIEF ASSOCIATION.
By James R. Hopkins.
Was organized May 9, 1870, and incorporated, March 11, 1890. Its
first officers were: chief engineer, David A. Sanborn, president; Theodore
D. Dennett, vice-president ; ex-chief engineer Robert A. Vinal, secretary
and treasurer. It distributes relief to its members (as follows) : any mem
ber who is injured going to, working at, or returning from a fire, may receive
$1.50 a day for a term not exceeding fifty days. In case of the death of
a member, $100 is paid to the legal representative for funeral expenses.
Its resources are the annual dues of members ($1.00 each), and the in
come of entertainments, four having been given during its existence. The
association also published a book containing a history of the department,
from which (through the courtesy of advertisers) it received an addition to
its funds. The association's business has always been honestly and efficiently
managed. It was fortunate in having for one of its founders Captain
Robert A. Vinal ; he was. for seventeen years its treasurer ; by his acts of
charity towards the poor and the unfortunate, by his words of counsel, and
in his upright life, he was an example to the association which it will follow
as long as it exists.
The officers of the association are : James R. Hopkins, president ; Ber
nard W. Lawrence, vice-president ; David A. Sanborn, treasurer ; John E.
Hill, clerk. Directors : Samuel H. Stevens, Thomas H. Daley, Frank W.
Ring, Irving C. Jackson, Edward F. Trefren, Edward W. Ring, Benj. W.
Daley, Frank L. Draper, Nathaniel C. Barker.
Dr. Thomas M. Durell is the physician and examining surgeon of the
association, having held that position since its incorporation ; his services
have always been given gratuitously to its inembers.

372 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
SOMERVILLE YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION.
By George F. Clarridge.
In the autumn of 1867, as a result of one of the great association con
ventions, several citizens of Somerville who had attended became alive to
the need of a work for young men in the then rapidly growing town, and a
meeting in the interest of such a work was held in the then Perkins-street
Baptist Church, December 7, at which Hon. W. H. Hodgkins was elected
president, and Hiram L. Mackechnie secretary of the newly formed or
ganization. For twenty years a general evangelistic work among all classes and for
both sexes was carried on, but in the summer of 1887 a reorganization of
the association took place, and " definite work for and by young men"
began. E. P. Higgins was elected president; Wm. M. Armstrong, vice-presi
dent ; F. E. Hodgkins, treasurer ; and H. E. Valentine, secretary. A suite
of rooms was fitted up in Masonic Block, Union square, and A. M. Wight
of Springfield was called as first general secretary. Mr. Wight filled the
position of general secretary four years, during which time work for boys
was begun, a woman's auxiliary was formed, a building fund was begun,
and the general lines of work were vigorously prosecuted. The woman's
auxiliary held a very successful fair during-Mr. Wight's term of office, from
the proceeds of which a lot of land was purchased at the corner of Bow
street and Somerville avenue, which has since been sold, and the fund is
now held in trust for a lot.
Mr. Higgins, as president, was succeeded, in 1888, by Mr. Wm. M. Arm
strong, and he in 1890, by Mr. Wm. B. Savage.
In May, 1891, the association was incorporated under the general laws
of Massachusetts. Mr. Wight resigned his office in June, 1891, after four
years of eminently successful work, and was succeeded by Mr. Geo. M.
Cowles of Springfield, who after one year of labor resigned to enter the
foreign mission field.
Mr. W. C. Rollins of Lynn was acting general secretary from Octo
ber, 1892, to January, 1893, when W. H. Symonds, the present secretary,
began his labors.
New rooms were fitted up in Litchfield Block at a cost of $2,000, and in
October, 1893, when H. M. Moore was elected president, a physical de
partment was added at an expense of $2,200. The membership now num
bers 806, and all lines of modern association work are carried on.
A fund of $10,000 in cash or pledges has been secured toward a new
building, which is our great need at the present time. The present officers
are : Geo. F. Clarridge, president ; F. M. Kilmer, vice-president ; F. E.
Hodgkins, treasurer; W. B. Clark, clerk; W. H. Symonds, general secre
tary ; W. J. Bursaw, physical director.

George f. Clarridge.

John Herbert.

William M. Armstrong.

Frank E. Hodgkins.

MASONIC.

SOMERVILLE ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER.
In June and October of the year 1870 the project of forming a chapter
was discussed in two informal meetings held by a few Royal Arch Masons
in the anteroom of John Abbot lodge, and it was decided to take the
necessary steps thereto. The officers were selected and the name of
" Somerville Royal Arch Chapter " was adopted.
A dispensation having been received from the M. E. Grand High Priest,
a chapter of Royal Arch Masons in Somerville was opened on the 27th day
of December, 1870, with M. E. Companion Daniel E. Chase, high priest;
and Companions Thomas H. Lord, king; Charles S. Lincoln, scribe;
Horace Haskins, treasurer ; Aaron Sargent, secretary ; Rev. George W.
Durell, chaplain ; Charles H. Delano, captain of the host ; ^\'illiam W. Dow,
P. S. ; George A. Pratt, Royal Arch captain ; Emery H. Monroe, M. of the
Third V. ; Robert Hollingsworth, M. of the Second V. ; Isaac B. Kendall,
M. of the First V. ; John W. A'inal and Albro R. Jenness, stewards ; Thomas
Cunningham, tiler; and twelve Companions, in addition, as members,
making a total membership of twenty-seven.
The chapter was formally constituted under its charter, October 10,
1871, by Grand High Priest Chickering and suite; and the officers installed
were M. E. Companion Thomas H. Lord, high priest; and Companions
Charles S. Lincoln, king ; Charles F. King, scribe ; Horace Haskins,
treasurer; x\aron Sargent, secretary; Rev. George \A'. Durell, chaplain;
William ^^'. Dow, captain of the host ; Isaac B. Kendall, P. S. ; George A.
Pratt, R. A. captain ; Albro R. Jenness, M. of the Third V. ; John W. Vinal,
M. of the Second V. ; George L. Baxter, M. of the First V. ; Charles G.
Pope and Horace E. Boynton, stewards ; and Thomas Cunningham, tiler.
The ceremonies were public, the presence of ladies giving additional in
terest to the occasion.
Succeeding M. E. Companion Lord, the high priests have been M. E.
Companions Charles F. King, Rudolph Kramer, George H. Allen, Thomas
H. Lord again, Samuel F. Holt, Quincy E. Dickerman, Frank H. Mead,
Albion Libby, James Kelly, Orrin C. Hubbard, Clarence H. Willey and
Clarence W. Tarbell, the present high priest being Samuel Dudley Kelley.
The chapter had thirty-four charter members, and has now a membership
of 302 Companions. The convocations were held in the old John Abbot
lodge room. Union square, before coming to the new Masonic apartments.
Winter Hill. 377

378 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
ORIENT COUNCIL R. AND S. M.
By Aaron Sargent.
Toward the close of the year 1888 the project of instituting a council
of Royal and Select Masters was advanced. The name — Orient Council-
was suggested by Companion A. Eugene Sargent. The fathers of the Coun
cil were Companions Aaron Sargent and John S. Hayes ; and with a mem
bership of twenty, and by authority of a dispensation from the M. I. G.
Master, a council was opened on the 7th day of February, 1889, with Com
panions John S. Hayes, T. I. Master; Joseph W. Hill, deputy master;
Isaac G. Curtis, principal conductor of the work ; Isaac B. Kendall,
treasurer ; Aaron Sargent, recorder ; Charles A. Skinner, chaplain ; George
S. Flanders, master of ceremonies ; Galen M. Bowditch, captain of the
guard; Charles E. Moore, conductor of the council; Robert R. Perry,
steward ; Daniel C. Stillson, sentinel ; and David Cutter, musical director
and organist.
The council received its charter, and was formally constituted by M. I.
G. Master Daniel W. Jones, and officers of the Grand Council on the i6th
of January, 1890. The first officers under the charter were : Companions
Joseph W. Hill, T. I. Master; Galen M. Bowditch, Deputy Master ; Wilham
H. Cushman, Principal Conductor of the Work ; Isaac B. Kendall, Treas
urer ; A. Eugene Sargent, recorder ; Charles A. Skinner, chaplain;
Clarence H. Willey, master of ceremonies ; George S. Flanders, captain
of the guard ; Edward T. C. Eddy, conductor of the council ; John E.
Marden, sentinel; and David Cutter, musical director and organist. The
succeeding masters have been : T. I. Companions Galen M. Bowditch,
William H. Cushman and Edward T. C. Eddy. The charter membership
was ninety-five companions. The council has conferred the degrees on
201 companions, and has now a membership of 206.
JOHN ABBOT LODGE.
The first lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in Somerville was opened
under a dispensation, October 23, 1857, with the following organization:
master, Francis L. Raymond ; senior warden, Joel F. Thayer ; junior warden,
James R. Bugbee ; treasurer, Thomas J. Leland; secretary, Charles E. Gil
man; chaplain, James M. Shute; marshal, George O. Brastow; senior
deacon, Thomas H. Lord; junior deacon, Alexander B. Cleary; senior
steward, Gardner T. Ring; junior steward, Reuben E. Demmon; tiler,
Enoch Robinson.
The lodge received its charter and was formally constituted September
14, 1858, the officers installed being as follows: master, John K. Hall;
senior warden, Joel F. Thayer ; junior warden, James R. Bugbee ; treasurer,
Thomas J. Leland ; secretary, Charles E. Gilman ; chaplain, James M.
Shute; marshal, Rollin W. Keyes; senior deacon, Thomas H. Lord;

Daniel E. Chase.

Orrin C. Hubbard.

Frank W. Kaan.

William H. Woodberry.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 383
junior deacon, Alexander B. Cleary; senior steward, Philip R. Ridgway ;
junior steward, William E. Robinson; tiler, Caleb Bucknam.
The charter members numbered nineteen brothers. For about two
years they met in a small attic lodge-room over Union Hall, in a wooden
building at the corner of Oak and Milk streets, now known as Beach street
and Somerville avenue. Then for eight or nine years they met on the
second floor of the same building.
March r8, 1869, the lodge moved to Union Hall building, in Union
square, and October 4, 1888, to the Stickney building, in Gilman square.
The masters since John K. Hall have been in their order : James R.
Bugbee, Thomas H. Lord, Philip R. Ridgway, William E. Robinson, Henry
F. Woods, Charles H. Delano, Thomas H. Lord (again), Selwyn Z. Bow
man, Frank S. Hartshorn, Charles H. Taylor, George H. Allen, Charles J.
Richardson, Robert Laycock, John B. Viall, T. Gilman Smith, Edward T.
Flanagan, Charles A. Cushman, Thomas M. Durell, Frank W. Kaan, Hor
ace L. Eaton and Frank W. Mead.
The number of members, September i, 1896, was 379, the list of officers
for 1896-7 being as follows : — W. M., Frank W. Mead; S. W., Elmer E.
Cousens ; J. W., Orrin C. Hubbard ; treasurer, Miah G. Kenny ; secretary,
Thomas Miller; chaplain. Rev. Edward P. Lee; marshal, Horace M. Par
sons ; S. D., Nathaniel W. Lillie ; J. D., John H. MacAlman ; S. S., Frederic
E. Wood; J. S., J. A. F. Trueman; I. S., Alfred M. Sibley; tiler, John E.
Marden ; organist, George Swift.

SOLEY LODGE.
By W.m. H. Woodberry-.
Soley Lodge A. F. & A. M. was instituted April 2, 1879, the first
meeting being held in Broadway Hall, East Somerville, under dispensation.
The formal constitution by M. W. Grand Master Chas. A. Welsh and
the Grand Lodge, occurred April 9, 1880, in Franklin Hall, corner of Broad
way and Franklin street.
The first officers, being the same as those acting under dispensation,
were : Wor. Bro. Horace P. Hemenway, W. M. ; \\'or. Bro. Henry F. Woods,
T. W. ; ^\'or. Bro. John ^'iall, J. W. ; and Bros. John F. Cole, treasurer ;
Aaron Sargent, secretary ; Rev. Edwin J. Gerry, chaplain ; Geo. \\'. Perkins,
marshal ; J. Foster Clark, S. D. ; Chas. G. Pope, J. D. ; L. M. Haskins, S.
S. ; Chas. H. Crane, J. S. ; Wm. F. Sanborn, I. S. ; Geo. H. Pleader, organ
ist ; and Chas. C. Folsom, tiler.
Its name is a tribute to the worth and memory of John Soley, a native
and resident of Charlestown, Mass., well loved by her citizens and many
times honored in her government. He was prominent in Masonry early in
the present century, having filled many offices in the Grand Lodge. He was
Gr. Recording Secretary from 181 1 to 18 18 inclusive, and M. W. Gr. Master
in 1826-27-28. He loved the order, and in its service spent a large part of

Amasa E. Southworth.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST A. YD PRESENT. 385
his long and useful life which closed in honor April 6, 1851. The W. Mas
ters of Soley Lodge since W. M. Hemenway have been ^^'or. Bros. John
Viall, J. Foster Clark, Chas. H. Crane, John F. Cole, Amasa E. Southworth,
Jas. F. Beard, Geo. W. Perkins, J. Walter Sanborn and \\'m. H. Woodberry.
On the 4th of October, 1888, the new Masonic apartments in the
Stickney Building in Gilman square were dedicated by M. W. Gr. Master
Henry Endicott and the Grand Lodge, and since then they have been the
Masonic home of all the Masonic societies of Somerville. Recognizing not
only the fraternal, but also the social obligations of its institution, its growth
from the beginning has been strong and healthy, and it enjoys the allegiance
and faithful support of many of Somerville's best and most highly esteemed
citizens. The charter membership of the lodge was 46, the present list
numbers 379, with the following line of officers: W. M., Wm. H. Woodberry;
S. W., Albion H. Libbey ; J. W., Herbert L. Clark; treasurer, Edwin S.
Conant; secretary, R. T. chamberlin; chaplain, Chas. A. Skinner; mar
shal, B. Frank Wild; S. D., Chas. S. Soule; J. D., E. W. Southworth; S. S.,
Eugene C. Leonard; J. S., Jos. H. Murphy; I. S., Jos. Robbins; organist,
H. F. Plaisted; tiler, John Marden.

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS.

SOMERVILLE ENCAMPMENT.
Somerville Encampment No. 48 was instituted in Odd Fellows' Hall,
Union square, April 7, 1873, with 21 charter members. Its first officers
were: C. P., Geo. Stephens; H. P., Daniel E. Chase; S. W., Irwin M. Ben
nett; scribe, Geo. H. Allen; treasurer, Hiram D. Smith; J. W., Crawford
F. Brown. This encampment has ahvaj's been fortunate in having an
efficient corps of officers, and its high standard of Patriarchal Odd Fellow
ship has always been maintained.
It has a membership of 173, composed of brothers from 30 different
lodges. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday evenings of each
month at 8 p. m.
WINTER HILL ENCAMPMENT.
Winter Hill Encampment No. 76 was instituted March 17, 1892, by
Chas. A. Mayo, G. P., assisted by a full staff of the Grand Encampment of
the State of Massachusetts.
The charter members are : D. W. Desmond, P. C. P., Frank P. Tucker,
P. C. P., W. H. Cooper, P. C. P., Austin S. Esty, P. C. P., Fred E. Cheney,

I.

Il

Odd Fellows' Building, Broadway and Marshall Street.

WiLU.\M H. Ralph.

George H. Russ.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 389
J. Leland Norcross, William Sanby, P. C. P., C. H. Miles, Elisha G. Wood
ward, Alvah Cloutman, P. C. P., Geo. H. Russ, William Welsh, Lawrence
P. Land, Philemon D. Warren, Geo. W. Leavitt, Jr., \\'illiam J. Emerson,
Abbott L. Knowles, Nathan A. Fitch, Geo. H. Harlow, Chas. E. Gerrish,
P. C. P., Frederick D. Chase, Joseph Scoboria, Robert Shannon, P. C. P.,
William F. Roberts.
The first officers that filled the chair of Winter Hill Encampment were :
Daniel W. Desmond, C. P. ; Frank P. Tucker, H. P. ; William H. Cooper,
S. W. ; Austin S. Estey, scribe; Fred E. Cheney, financial scribe; J.
Leland Norcross, treasurer; William Sanby, J. W. ; Geo. H. Russ, guide;
Elisha G. Woodward, ist W. ; Nathan A. Fitch, 2d W. ;] Geo. H. Harlow,
3d W. ; Geo. W. Leavitt, Jr., 4th W. ; Robert Shannon, I. S. ; Lawrence P.
Land, O. S. ; Wm. F. Roberts, ist G. of T. ; Wm. Welsh, 2d G. of T.
The patriarchs who have passed through the chair of the Encampment
as C. P. are : D. W. Desmond, P. C. P., Wm. H. Cooper, P. C. P., William
Sanby, P. C. P., Geo. H. Russ, Thos. H. Bryant, Enoch M. Smith, Geo. F.
Sargent. Salvatore La Bua, Jr., is the present C. P.
The amount of money paid as sick benefits since the institution of the
Encampment is : our own members, $254.50 ; non-members, $99.
The deceased members are Alvah Cloutman, William H. Cooper, P. C.
P., and J. W. Bailey.
Total membership, January 1, 1896, 109 members.
The regular meetings of the Encampment are the first and third
Thursdays of the month.
CALEB RAND LODGE.
Caleb Rand Lodge No. 197, 1. O. O. F., was instituted in West Som
erville, May 29, 1888, with the following charter members : Alonzo E. Bailey,
George B. Barstow, Frank R. Starkey, Oliver H. Perry, Hiram O. Chapin,
Samuel H. \\'ilkins, George L. Marshall, .Alfonso Clements, Fred L. Coates,
Albion P. Huntress, Franklin P. Upham, George W. Maynard, Charles
Warner and James Gillen. The name chosen was that of Past Grand
Master Caleb Rand, a member of Olive Branch Lodge of Charlestown, one
of the noblest of Odd Fellows, and one whose memory we cherish and
revere. After being duly instituted, Alonzo E. Bailey was elected first
Noble Grand, and Geo. B. Barstow as Vice-Grand, and the officers being
installed, 110 applicants were duly initiated.
Mt. Sinai Lodge of North Cambridge, Paul Revere Lodge of Somer
ville, and Bethel Lodge of Arlington assisted in advancing the candidates
through the several degrees to full membership. Starting under such
favorable circumstances, the lodge has continued to increase in member
ship until at the present time it numbers 210 scarlet degree members.
In the summer of 1892 the lodge-room and paraphernalia were de
stroyed by fire, and being without a home, the lodge accepted the kind
offer of Oasis Lodge of Union square, of the use of their apartments, where

390 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
it continued to meet until its present quarters were fitted up. On occupying
its new lodge-room a fresh interest was awakened, which has been steadily
increasing, until at the present time there is no lodge in Massachusetts that is
better or more favorably known, both for the magnificence of its degree work
and also for the care and attention which it gives to the sick. Since the
institution of Caleb Rand Lodge it has lost by death twelve of its number,
two of whom were charter members and both Past Grands. The following
is a list of the Past Grands of the lodge : J. H. Gillen, Alonzo E. Bailey,
Geo. B. Barstow, Samuel H. Wilkins, Frank E. Studley, Fred L. Coates,
Chas. A. G. Winther, Geo. L. Marshall, Joseph D. Young, Geo. T. Rand,
Henry C. Fay, Fred R. Stockwell, Harry A. True, Oramel P. Walker,
Elmer J. Rhoades, Frank W. Richardson and N. W. Elwell by card.
The present elective officers of the lodge are : Geo. R. Libby, Noble
Grand; Fred A. White, Vice-Grand ; Walter H. Mitchell, secretary ; Frank
A. Hobart, permanent secretary ; Fred R. Stockwell, P. G., treasurer.
Lodge meetings are held every Tuesday evening in Fraternity Hall,
West Somerville : first Tuesday in the month, initiatory degree ; second
Tuesday in the month, ist degree ; third Tuesday in the month, 2d degree;
fourth Tuesday in the month, 3d degree.
OASIS LODGE.
Oasis Lodge No. 146 was instituted September 17, 1868, in the old
Masonic apartments at the corner of Milk street (now Somerville avenue)
and Beach street, with thirty charter members. The first officers were :
Noble Grand, Thomas B. Wilson ; Vice-Grand, David A. Sanborn, Jr. ; sec
retary, George H. Ireland ; treasurer, Chas. H. Elkins. The name " Oasis "
was selected by the secretary.
The lodge soon outgrew its small quarters, and in 1872 removed to
Odd Fellows Hall, over Hotel Warren, Union square, where it remained
until the completion, in 1891, of its present home in the Stone Building,
which was specially arranged, under the supervision of the trustees of the
lodge. From the time of its organization. Oasis Lodge has believed that
the care of the sick was the fundamental principle of Odd Fellowship, and
ever acting upon that principle it has gained a reputation second to none
in this jurisdiction.
Although the lodge has always been financially successful, yet its funds
have been carefully reserved for their intended purpose — relief. It has
expended over $30,000 for benefits, and has invested funds of about $10,000.
The present membership is 321, and the sick benefits are $6 per week.
Meetings are held on Thursday evenings at 8 p. m.
PAUL REVERE LODGE.
Paul Revere Lodge No. 184 was instituted at Winter Hill, on the
15 th of March, 1878, with twenty-five charter members, the most of whom
withdrew from Oasis Lodge No. 146, of Union square.

.Andrew .a. La.mgnt.

sti

Frank A. Noyes.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4.ST .4ND PRESENT. 393
The lodge was installed in the hall on Broadway, known at that time
as Brazillian Hall, where it remained until the year 1885; the increasing
membership and the general dissatisfaction with the location made the de
mand for a new hall imperative, and under the leadership of Brother Luke
^^^ Farmer the Odd Fellows Building Association was formed, and the
present home of the lodge erected at the corner of Broadway and Marshall
street. The first elective officers of the lodge were : Rufus Winn, Noble Grand ;
Nathaniel B. Gilkey, Vice-Grand ; Austin S. Esty, recording secretary ;
Edwin R. Perham, permanent Secretary ; and J. Leland Norcross, treasurer.
The treasurer has the honor of having served every term since the
lodge was instituted.
The growth of the lodge has been healthy and uniform, numbering at
the present time 293 brothers, and its influence is not only felt in the com
munity in which it is located, but throughout the State, as the present Grand
Master, Austin S. Esty, is one of its charter members.
Since its institution the lodge has lost by death four Past Grands, one
Noble Grand and twenty-seven Scarlet members ; and has paid in sick
benefits and donations over eleven thousand dollars.
The following named brothers have presided over the deliberations of
the lodge since its institution. Past Grands : Rufus Winn, N. B. Gilkey,
A. S. Esty, E. G. Woodward, P. FJ. \\'arren, J. L. Hutchinson, J. B. Mayhew,
J. B. ^^'estcott, E. T. Mayhew, W. J. Emerson, C. H. Sanborn, F. W. Ring,
W. H. Beals, J. H. Woodbury, W. A. Sanborn, J. E. A. Mulliken, D. W.
Desmond, A. Cloutman, L. W. Parker, L. C. Powers, J. T. Butler, N. B.
Dana, O. F. Hincks, C. S. Noyes, G. H. Harlow, L. W . Farmer, G. F.
Sargent, W. L. Clough, F. E. Cheney, H. K. Potter, L. B. Chandler, W. R.
Maxwell, A. A. Lamont, J. A. Clark, I. L. Rich, D. C. Theall, S. La Bua,
Jr.

REBEKAH LODGES, I. O. O. F.

IVALOO AND RAMONA LODGES.
By Mrs. Harriet A. Ralph.
While closely allied to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the
Rebekah Lodge has its own legitimate work to perform. Its mission
is to alleviate suffering, and the members go forth quiet and unassum
ing on their labor of love, not letting the left hand know what the right
hand doeth, ever ready to respond to the call of a sister or brother in dis
tress. Founded on the immutable corner-stone of Friendship, Love and Truth,
their work broadens out into ministrations of love's helpfulness, positive as
surance of heart-felt sympathy and a willingness to render any act of kind-

394 SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST .4ND PRESENT.
ness to lighten the many cares of life. Financial assistance is not given as
charity in the sense in which we are wont to view the word, but in that
grander, nobler spirit of loving our neighbors as ourselves, and the only
recompense hoped for is the knowledge of suffering relieved and duty
well done.
While attending faithfully to the duties of visiting the sick and caring
for the needy, the social feature is not lost sight of, and in visiting and en
tertaining sister lodges many pleasant hours are passed and strength gained
for the work that lies before us. Somerville has three Rebekah Lodges.

IVALOO LODGE.
First to enter the work in this city and among the earliest instituted in
the State was Ivaloo Lodge No. 7. The name was selected by Brother
Daniel E. Chase, in compliment to his daughter.
Organized at Samaritan Hall, Union square, January 28, 1870, with a
charter membership of forty-six, the lodge increased in members until the
roll numbered two hundred and thirty-seven ; various causes, principally
the formation of other lodges, have reduced the membership, which at the
present time is one hundred and seventy.
For seventeen years the office of Noble Grand was filled as follows :
Thomas B. Wilson, 1870 and 1871; Irvin M. Bennett, 1872 and 1875;
Thomas Vickery, 1873 and 1879; Daniel E. Chase, 1874, 1876 and 1877;
Maria L. Doten, 1878; Charles A. Cushman, 1880; Frank A. Noyes, 1881
and 1885 ; Ezekiel S. Bell, 1882 and 1883 ; Walter A. Sprague, 1884; Wil
liam H. Ralph, 1886. As will be seen, up to the year 1887, but one lady
had held the highest office. At this time the lodge was not gaining in mem
bership as rapidly as was desired, and the brothers thought that, as this was
the ladies' branch of the order, it would be for its welfare if a sister would
assume the office of Noble Grand, and Sister Nellie A. Curville was pre
vailed upon to undertake the work. She entered upon her duties in Janu
ary, 1887, was re-elected and served in 1888, and the two years of her ad
ministration were crowned with success, thirteen members being added.
In 1889 Sister Anna R. Noyes held this position, and to her efforts is
largely due the prosperity of the lodge since that time. Upon entering the
duties of the office, she immediately formed a degree staff to assist in initi
ation ; the membership increased. The year was a grand social success.
The renewed interest proved an inspiration to her successors, and a prece
dent was thus established that has been a power ever since, and under the
administration of the following named ladies the lodge has ranked among
the first in the State. Laura .\. Byrnes, 1890; Rachel A. Trull, 1891 ; Clara
L. Clark, 1892; Josephine .\. Bridges, 1893 ; Etta Chappell, 1894; Nellie C.
Leighton, 1895 ; Mary A. Thorpe, 1896.
When the Somerville hospital was built, the lodge furnished a room in
the building. At Christmas time donations of money, fruit, clothing and

Mrs. Harriet A. Ralph.

'¦- "

s
s
^m
^^ ^
j
- ^E^ft^ "^
?
¦m. £
"':
Ifag"
-'
^^^""
jt^
M
H
1
^ "^
^'-
¦n^^^
H^^fl^Kj
"^fl
IV
i%-
VHp
MpMpi^
Im
|B
¦^ ¦^'
' ¦^^^y^'^^. jdnj
Mrs. Harriet A. Chamberlin.
SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 397
other needful articles are sent to the Odd Fellows Home at Worcester, and
many not members of the order can testify to dark hours made bright, and
sorrow lightened through the efforts of the members of the lodge.
A social feature, which is greatly enjoyed, is a sewing circle that meets
at the homes of the members. At these meetings useful and fancy articles
are made and various plans adopted, by which the treasury is kept well
filled, and the members take great pleasure in distributing this money
among those who by sickness or misfortune may find it useful. It is no un
common occurrence to have sixty persons present at these gatherings.
RAMONA LODGE.
Ramona Lodge No. 93 was instituted December 9, 1890, in Society Hall,
Clarendon Block, West Somerville, the charter membership was twenty-six,
all but one of the number having withdrawn from Erminie No. 76 for the
purpose of forming this lodge. The name was suggested by Mrs. Estelle
C. Bryant. In 1891 the membership had increased to one hundred and thirteen,
and is now about one hundred.
At the time of institution, Mt. Sinai Lodge presented a set of gavels and
a seal, and Caleb Rand Lodge gave a set of jewels.
On the evening of December 29 of the same year seventy-three candi
dates were admitted, and Erminie Lodge presented ode-cards and banners.
In July, 1892, the building in which the meetings were held was par
tially destroyed by fire, the lodge losing all its property except the books.
Erminie again showed its fraternal spirit by replacing the banners.
This lodge also assists the Odd Fellows' Home and conducts a local re
lief work. The following named members have held the position of Noble
Grand: William H. Spiller, Harriet A. Chamberlin, Estelle C. Bryant,
Ella F. Wilkins, M. Jennie McGrath, Celene W. Darling.
A feeling of friendship exists between the three organizations, the with
drawals in each case being for the extension of the work in this city.
During the years since this branch of Odd Fellowship has conducted
its efficient work in Somerville, the efforts of its members have met with
success, largely due to the fact that they have been guided by the principles
of the order, "Friendship, Love and Truth."

N. B. Dana.

John F. Kennard.

FREDERICK E. Cheney,

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 40 1
ERMINIE LODGE, No. 76.
By Mrs. Florence Hurn.
Erminie Rebekah Lodge was instituted at Winter Hill, March 25, 1889,
with a charter membership of thirty-eight. The credit of naming the lodge
is due to Mrs. Sarah E. Melvin, one of the charter members.
The first officers were : Noble Grand, John E. .\. Mulliken ; Vice-
Grand, Annah H. Perham ; secretary, Olive F. Wellcome; treasurer, S. E.
Hollis ; financial secretary, S. E. Melvin.
Paul Revere Lodge No. 184, I. O. O. F., presented the lodge with its
officers' jewels and a fine set of regalia.
The Noble Grands have been : 1889, J. E. A. Mulliken; 1890, Annah
H. Perham ; 1891, Susan M. Tucker; 1892, Olive F. Wellcome; 1893, Ida
E. Mayhew; 1894, Nellie B. Preston; 1895, Hattie B. Chandler; 1896,
Florence Hurn.
Mr. Frank P. Tucker, a popular resident of \Mnter Hill, has been the
efficient drill-master nearly all the time since the institution, giving his ser
vices freely.
The lodge has furnished a room in the Somerville Hospital, and re
plenishes the furnishings as often as is required. It has also furnished a
room in the Odd Fellows' Home at Worcester, and at Christmas time sends
a box of useful articles for distribution among the inmates.
This lodge is in a flourishing condition, both numerically and finan
cially, the membership being nearly three hundred.
Perfect harmony and sociability are marked characteristics of all the
meetings, and loyalty to the order, devotion to its principles, and pride in
its welfare are the distinctive qualities of a membership that has ever striven
to advance the interests of the lodge. The visitation and care of the sick
are carefully attended to. The members are wide-awake and progressive,
and the past year has been one of great prosperity. The good work for
which this lodge has a high reputation has always been kept up, and the
standard set heretofore has been fully maintained.
Appropriate services are held at a regular meeting in June of each year,
in memory of those members who have passed away. The following is a
list of deceased members: Jennie Abbott, Abbie J. Bean, Elizabeth J.
Chisholm, Emma A. Durell, Emma J. Fuller, Joseph H. Hollis, Arozine M.
Lane, Charles W. Lyman, Levi W. Parker, E. Zettie Rines, Thomas R.
Roulstone, Mercy K. Sanborn, Etta Whipple, Edgar L. Weeks.
The regular meetings of this lodge are held on the second and fourth
Monday evenings of each month at Odd Fellows' Hall.

MRS. Florence Hurn.

ODD LADIES.

CONSTELL.-VTION LODGE.
Constellation Lodge No. 34, Independent Order of Odd Ladies,
was instituted May i, 1895, with 34 members : Noble Lady, M. W. Yeaton ;
Vice-Lady, S. Addie Johnson ; chaplain, L. F. Stevens ; recording secretary,
M. S. Tracy; lady reporter, E. M. Jewett; financial secretary, A. L. Glazier;
treasurer, M. H. Snow; senior warden, H. C. Pearson; junior warden, E.
C. Sargent; conductor, E. S. Paine; guardian, A. G. Young.
The lodge now has 57 members, pays sick and death benefits, and is
very prosperous.
The present officers are: Noble Lady, M. S. Tracy; Vice-Lady, E. Sy
monds ; chaplain, N. S. Appley ; recording secretary, A. Campbell ; lady
reporter, M. E. Childs ; financial secretary, A. L. Glazier ; treasurer, M. H.
Snow; conductor, H. K. Hammett; guardian, D. S. Gilson ; senior warden,
M. E. Dickerson ; junior warden, F. E. Doyle; right-hand supporter, K.
Stacy ; left-hand supporter, H. Chamberlin ; senior representative, M. W.
Yeaton ; junior representative, S. Addie Johnson.

LONGFELLOW LODGE, No. 41.
By Mrs. Florence Hurn.
Longfellow Lodge No. 41, U. O. of I. O. L., was instituted at Odd
Fellows' Hall, Winter Hill, March 13, 1896. Its charter list contained sixty-
eight names. The first Noble Lady was Mrs. Susie C. Perkins, who was
also instrumental in forming the lodge. The present Noble Lady is Mrs.
M. E. Ryan. The lodge has a membership of one hundred and twenty, and
is the second largest lodge in the State.
It has a benefit fund for the relief of members in sickness and distress.
There is also a relief committee who faithfully cares for the sick, providing
watchers when needed, and performing other duties of a kindred nature.
This lodge has already attained a high reputation for sociability, and
has the good will of all sister lodges. The membership includes a number
of well-known ladies of Winter Hill, Charlestown, Dorchester and other
places who are prominent in both church and social affairs. 403

ANCIENT ORDER OF UNITED WORKMEN.

SOMERVILLE LODGE, No. 48.
On June 13, 1883, thefollowing petitioners met in Bow-street Hall, Police
Building, for the purpose of organizing a lodge of workmen : Thos. M.
Durell, Frank E. Fitts, Frank Baxter, Geo. C. Ward, Herbert A. Chapin,
Herbert W. Raymond, Wm. D. Hayden, Wm. R. Sanderson, Geo. L. Smith,
Geo. W. Bean, Chas. D. Elliot, Seymour W. Harding and Melville C. Park
hurst. On June 29, D. D. G. M. W. Guilford S. Reed and suite, of Cambridge,
instituted the same with the following officers : P. M. W., Thos. M. Durell ;
M. W., Frank E. Fitts; foreman, Frank Baxter; overseer, Geo. C. Ward;
guide, Wm. R. Sanderson ; recorder, Herbert A. Chapin ; financier, Her
bert W. Raymond ; receiver, Wm. D. Hayden ; in. W., Geo. L. Smith.
From these thirteen petitioners has grown one of the most flourishing
organizations in Union square, and its yearly anniversary exercises and
other social features make it one of the most successful lodges of its kind.
During its thirteen years of existence it has initiated 220 members, and
out of that number, 5 have died, 7 have withdrawn, and 15 have been sus
pended, leaving a membership at the present time of 193. So few deaths
and suspensions out of so many members in such a length of time is some
thing unusual in orders of this kind, and speaks well for the standard of its
membership. The total amount paid out in death benefits is $16,500.
The present officers are : P. M. W., Thos. Sharkey; M. W., G. Leonard
McNieb ; foreman, John F. Dardis ; overseer, J. E. Rupert ; recorder, Geo.
B. Pitcher ; financier, S. Gardner Higgins ; receiver, Wm. E. Whitney ;
guide, R. J. Good ; in. W., Thos. Roberts ; out. W., Geo. Adams.

KNIQHTS OF HONOR.

MT. BENEDICT LODGE.
Mt. Benedict Lodge, No. 872, Knights of Honor, was organized Jan
uary 30, 1878, John F. Cole being elected past dictator, and Dr. Horace P.
Hemenway the first dictator ; Abbott L. Knowles was elected financial re
porter, and Edwin S. Conant treasurer, positions which they have both held
up to the present time.
404

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 40 5
The lodge had the good fortune to secure as members many of the
prominent citizens of East Somerville, and at one time numbered 125
members. The lodge has paid for the relief of sick and needy members nearly
$1,000, and to the families of its deceased members $36,000.
CAMERON LODGE, No. 1146.
This lodge was instituted July 25, 1878, with a membership of 37, which
has been increased to 125. Owing to deaths and withdrawals, the present
membership is 47.
The deaths, which have been sixteen, have drawn from the order
$32,000. The lodge at present has property and funds invested amounting
to $15,000. Its meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of
each month in Unity Hall.

KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS.

ARCADIA LODGE, No. 113.
By Elmer L. Glazier.
On the evening of December 10, 1894, a company of gentlemen met in
Columbian Hall, West Somerville, by invitation of Harvey S. Garcelon and
Elmer L. Glazier, for the purpose of discussing the order of Knights of
Pythias, with a view to forming a lodge in that part of the city, and a
preliminary organization was formed, with Harvey S. Garcelon as chairman.
From that meeting the work went rapidly on, until on the 30th day of
January, 1895, Arcadia Lodge No. 113 was instituted with 61 charter mem
bers, and the following officers were elected and installed : Harvey S.
Garcelon, chancellor commander ; Frederick C. Gohring, vice-chancellor ;
James C. Howard, prelate ; Barnett T. Skelton, master of work ; Elmer L.
Glazier, keeper of records and seal ; Delavan C. Delano, master of finance ;
Frederick A. P. Fiske, master of exchequer ; Frederick B. King, master of
arms ; Homer C. Wheeler, inner guard ; Theodore C. Ripley, outer guard ;
Harvey S. Garcelon and Alvin Phillips, representatives to the Grand Lodge ;
and Dr. H. P. Makechnie, I. C. Earle and M. S. Andrews, trustees.
Early in the year Frederick C. Gohring resigned as vice-chancellor, and
Eugene B. Stoddard was elected in his place.
The lodge meets regularly on the first and third Wednesday evenings of
each month at 8 o'clock, and it has gained an enviable reputation for the
good quality of its work.
Of the charter members only eight were members of the order. Of
these four were past chancellors.
P. C. Elmer L. Glazier, the senior P. C. and senior knight as well.

4o6 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
was initiated in November, 1870, and became P. C, July 1, 1873. Harvey
S. Garcelon had been a member about fifteen years, and the others a
less time.
The present officers are : Geo. T. Failey, chancellor commander ; Fred
erick B. King, vice-chancellor; Homer C. Wheeler, prelate; Samuel N.
Crosby, master of work ; Elmer L. Glazier, keeper of records and seal ; J.
Haines Maxwell, master of finance ; George A. Merrill, master of ex
chequer; Ernest S. Firth, master at arms; David G. Boyd, inner guard;
John A. Magee, outer guard; Mathew S. Andrews, Harvey S. Garcelon,
Barnett T. Skelton, trustees ; Harvey S. Garcelon and Barnett T. Skelton,
representatives of Grand Lodge.

ROYAL ARCANUM.

SOMERVILLE COUNCIL.
Somerville Council No. 6 was instituted November 28, 1877. It is
located in Union square, and its meetings are held in Society Hall, on the
first and third Tuesdays of the month.
The total number of members admitted since the date of institution is
212, of which 141 are in good standing on the rolls at the present time.
There have been 16 deaths in this council since it was organized.
The following are the present officers : Regent, Charles W. Boyer ; Vice-
Regent, Peter P. Lawson ; Past Regent, John Millar ; orator, W. E. Goss ;
secretary, E. W. Doyle ; collector, Charles W. Silsbee ; treasurer, J. Q.
Twombley ; chaplain, George B. Clarke ; guide, John Hunter ; warden, E.
E. Jordan ; sentry, A. A. Lewis. The trustees are : H. A. Chapin, H. W.
Raymond and George A. Snow.
ELM COUNCIL.
Elm Council No. 36 was instituted December 5, 1877, with 34 mem
bers, and increased its membership to 281. The present membership is
206, owing to deaths and withdrawals. The deaths of 30 members have
drawn from the order $88,500. It has at present property and money in
vested, $1,662.37.
It has had one supreme regent and one representative to the supreme
council from its ranks.
It meets on the first and third Thursdays, and holds its meetings in
Fraternity Hall, this city.

Capt. Harrison Aldrich.

'¦%ih

Capt. Henry W. Pitman.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 409
SOMERVILLE LIGHT INFANTRY.
By Henry W. Pitm.vn.
On the third day of August, 1853, about seventy-five well-known resi
dents of Somerville met and formed the Somerville Light Infantry, and it
was designated by the official title of Co. A, Fourth Regiment of Light
Infantry. George O. Brastow was elected commander, Isaac F. Shepard first
lieutenant, Francis Tufts second, R. B. Fitts third, and Henry \\ . Allen
fourth lieutenants. J. Manley Clark was made first sergeant and clerk of
the company. A constitution and by-laws were adopted, and judging by the tenor, no
stronger pledges to loyalty, patriotism and duty could have been made.
Franklin Hall, near Union square, was the first armory, and the corps
soon assumed indications of being a truly live military organization. The
membership list increased rapidly, the uniforms and arms were promptly
secured, and the proficiency came with such celerity that a target shoot was
entered upon November 9, three months after formation. Emery H. Mun
roe and the commander were adjudged the victors, but the private declined
to accept the medal, and it was given to Francis H. Raymond, a volunteer
of the occasion.
On the 30th of March, 1854, the company, for the first time in uniform,
attended the funeral of the last survivor of the Lexington Minutemen,
Jonathan Harrington, and after the services had been rendered, marched
to Somerville by exactly the same route as that passed over by the British
troops on their retreat from Lexington in 1775.
In June, 1854, Commander Brastow having been elected a major of the
regiment, Second Lieutenant Francis Tufts was elected captain, J. Manley
Clark first, Alvin G. Lovejoy second, Gorham A. Leland third, and N.
Everett Fitz fourth lieutenants respectively.
It is needless to follow the company in its detailed history. It had its
accessions to membership, its social occasions, its stated tours of duties, its
parades for festive as well as funeral events, and a life not unlike many of
similar organizations. From its inception the Somerville Light Infantry
formed the nucleus of the social life of the town, and furnished great en
joyment to the people. Five members from among the prominent families
contributed the usual fee towards the support of the command, and engaged
in the festive occasions with avidity and pleasure. On the 29th of July,
1859, George O. Brastow was again elected to command the company, Capt.
Tufts having resigned and taken position among the rank and file. He
remained with the corps a long time, rendering good service to the com
mander and his associates.
It is worthy of mention that on July 6, i860, Willard C. Kinsley, who
afterwards rendered signal service during the war of the rebellion, and for
whom the Grand Army Post in Somerville is named, became a member of
the company.

4IO SOMERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT.
There is no record of the association from February, 1861, for a long
period, but it is well known that at the call of Gov. Andrew for the first
three months' troops, the Somerville Light Infantry, as Co. I, Fifth Regi
ment, Mass. V. M., Samuel C. Lawrence, commanding, responded with a
hundred of Somerville's best sons.
The details of the war service of the company have devolved upon one
who is more competent than any other person to compile and present them.
Suffice to say that the Somerville Light Infantry furnished four companies
for the war, namely, for three months, a hundred days, nine months and
three years. The companies were several times recruited, and each organ
ization returned home with its escutcheon unspotted and unstained.
The commanders of the war companies were : Capt. W. E. Robinson,
B. F. Parker, John N. Coffin and Frederic R. Kinsley, the latter being
promoted to be major and lieutenant-colonel.
After the war the company maintained its organization, recruiting from
the young men of the town. The same local interest in the company which
was manifest in the early days of peace was again awakened under the able
commandership of Capt. Granville W. Daniels and Charles F. King. The
former subsequently became a major, and the latter major and lieutenant-
colonel of the Fifth Regiment.
July 6, 1876, the company was disbanded by an order reducing the
companies of the militia; but June 3, 1886, permission was granted to form
a new command as Co. M, Eighth Infantry, with Harrison Aldrich, who had
been a captain in a war company, as commander, Henry W. Pitman as first
lieutenant, and S. Thomas Kirk as second lieutenant.
The laws and regulations of the militia had changed materially in the
eleven years intervening between the old and new companies. An examin
ing board determined the efficiency of the commissioned officers. Skilled
markmanship had become a matter of consideration, a stricter attention
paid to discipline, more temperate demeanor in camp and other tours of
duty, and penalties were more severely inflicted. A soldier of 1886 meant
more, and has been meaning more for the past ten years, but it is a matter
of pride to chronicle the fact that the Somerville Light Infantry has kept
pace with the best companies in the militia. To this day the command is
most creditable, the people continue to take an interest in it, and everything
bids fair for a history which will long continue enshrouded with honor and
ability. Since the reorganization the corps has won medals, trophies, etc., and
the several prize drills, target shoots and reunions have evinced degrees
never before attained by the early organizations. This is no reflection on
the latter, but the requirements of the military department of the State are
greater and more exacting.
On the 4th of March, 1889, the company visited Washington under the
command of Capt. Pitman, and was part of the grand pageant at the in
auguration of President Harrison. Many associate members accompanied
it, and were emphatic in their praise of the corps during this tour of duty.

Capt. Horace M. Parsons.

412 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
The commanders since the reorganization have been : Harrison Aldrich,
Henry W. Pitman, S. Thomas Kirk and Horace M. Parsons, the latter being
now in command, and he is entitled to great credit for his attention to the
company's interests.
Capt. Parsons was recently elected a major of the Eighth Infantry, but
declined the honor.
The lieutenants at present are : Herbert W. Whitten and George L.
Marshall. In connection with the history of the Somerville Light Infantry the
following interesting extracts from a letter from Capt. Brastow to John K.
Hall, which speak in the warmest terms of the liberality and patriotism of
the people of Somerville in the civil war, can find an appropriate place.
Washington, D. C, May 13, 1861.
My dear Brother John K.
While a West Point lieutenant is drilling my company, as he does not
want us officers around, I will devote a few minutes in hastily writing you
a few lines.
I assure you we all duly appreciate the gallant civility of our good
townsmen in turning out in so large numbers under your command on the
day of our march from good old Somerville. No town has more liberally
and more heartily come right up to the aid and encouragement of her
soldiers than our town !
We all feel it sensibly and tenderly, and we must be recreant to every
feeling of gratitude and of patiotism if we do not feel the. full weight of our
obligation to perform our duties manfully, and prove ourselves worthy of all
this confidence and kind generosity. . . . All our lodge members remember
with interest your meeting last Tuesday evening, and we have heard with
much pleasure of the waving of the glorious stars and stripes from the
building. God grant that this struggle may add new brilliancy to the flag
of our fathers, the flag of our country, the flag of our love and hope, and the
flag for which we will cheerfully die if need be.
Your friend,
Brastow.

Robert Luce.

Frank E. Dickerman.

CLUBS,

CENTR.-VL CLUB ASSOCIATION.
By Charles E. Parks.
In December, 1886, the following named residents of Somerville : Chris
topher E. Rymes, George A. Bruce, Charles S. Lincoln, George F. Loring,
John E. Sylvester, Charles F. Rice, Wallace H. Ham, Harry Highley,
Douglas Frazar, Herbert C. Hall and Joseph O. Hayden, believing it de
sirable to have a club-house in the city, signed articles of agreement to
secure, under the Public Statutes of Massachusetts, the incorporation of the
club under the title of the Central Club Association. The charter was pro
cured in the same month, the site on the corner of Highland avenue and
Central street selected, and building was commenced as soon as practicable.
The gentlemen above named constituted the first board of directors, and
they organized by electing the following as officers of the association :
Christopher E. Rymes, president ; Charles S. Lincoln, first vice-president ;
George A. Bruce, second vice-president ; Joseph O. Hayden, treasurer ;
Charles F. Rice, secretary.
The building was completed and formally opened Monda}', October 10,
1887, and the occasion was one of the most brilliant social events in the
history of Somerville.
The club roster (200) was immediately filled by the representative men
of the city, and, under the presidencies of Christopher E. Rymes, Charles A.
West, Hon. Edward Glines and Frank E. Dickerman, the association has
held the prestige which was established on the opening night.
The Central was the first suburban club-house built especially for club
purposes in the neighborhood of Boston.
The members meet frequently in a social way, and take an active in
terest in whist, billiards, pool and bowhng, and the club always has teams
to represent it in the different league tournaments.
The whist team has taken all the whist prizes offered in the Inter-Club
tournaments, and held the championship trophy of the New England Whist
Association in the winter of 1895 and 1896.
During the winter months the members of the club entertain their lady
friends at least once a month.
SONS OF MAINE CLUB.
By Robert Luce.
Many of the residents of Somerville were born in the State of Maine.
The spirit of fellowship has always been strong in natives of that State, and
415

4X6 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
some of those living in Somerville thought it would be pleasant to take ad
vantage of that fact by organizing a club where acquaintance could be in
creased, old times recalled, and the good name of their native State be
honored. So in 1890, chiefly through the instrumentality of Col. Charles F.
King and Mr. C. C. Farrington, a meeting of representative citizens organ
ized the Sons of Maine. Naturally and very wisely Col. King was made
the first president, and Mr. Farrington secretary. It has been the policy
of the club to choose a new president each year, and the office has been
held in turn by Dr. H. C. White, Dr. H. P. Makechnie, Robert Luce, Dr.
A. H. Carvill and Hon. A. A. Perry. Mr. Farrington has remained the
secretary from the start, and to his interest in the affairs of the club it is
greatly indebted for its prosperity. Among other well-known citizens who
have contributed to its welfare have been : Col. Elijah Walker, Prof. George
M. Harmon of Tufts, Melville C. Parkhurst, Porter S. Roberts, F. W.
Hopkins, Louis E. Merry, Franklin F. Phillips, George H. Russ, M. 1^.
King, John F. Mills, Rev. L. M. Powers, Albion H. Brown, Capt. John F.
Merry, Charles H. Crane, Rev. S. S. Cummings, George M. Starbird, S. S.
Woodcock, C. C. Folsom and James E. Kelley. The club has had two or
three banquets each year, to most of which the ladies have been invited.
Among the Sons of Maine who have been its guests on these occasions
have been General Chamberlain, Ex-Governor Long, Col. A. P. Martin,
Judge Enos T. Luce, A. A. Strout, Esq., and Dana Estes.
DAUGHTERS OF MAINE CLUB.
By Mrs. Mae D. Frazar.
One of the organizations of which Somerville has reason to be proud
is the Daughters of Maine Club, that in four years has reached a member
ship of two hundred and seventy-five.
When Col. King was president of the Sons of Maine Club he suggested
the forming of an organization for Maine women, and acting upon this a
meeting was called, this Club was organized, and Mrs. King was chosen
president, with Mrs. Harriet A. Chamberlin, Mrs. S. A. P. Dickerman and
Mrs. Helen M. McCully as vice-presidents ; Miss Bessie R. White and Mrs.
Clara P. Haven, each for six months as secretaries ; and the executive com
mittee was Mrs. Lizzie Adams, Mrs. Adrianna V. Cloyse, Mrs. Carleton,
Mrs. George A. Clark and Mrs. Annie M. Farrington.
Mrs. King had presided only twice, when she, with all Somerville, was
called to mourn the loss of Col. King, who had been a man of mark in the
city, by reason of his wide sympathies, broad charities and liberal, progres
sive spirit.
At the urgent request of the ladies, Mrs. King allowed her name to
stand as president for the remainder of the year, and then Mrs. Harriet
A. Chamberlin was elected to fill the office, the other members on the com
mittee being Mrs. .A_lice S. Waterhouse, Mrs. Adrianna V. Cloyse, Mrs.
Lydia A. Greely, vice-presidents; Mrs. Clara P. Haven, secretary; Mrs. Hattie

,/ ./^

Mrs. Mae D. Frazar.

Mrs. Clara P- Haven.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 419
J. Teele, treasurer ; Mrs. Ella E. Burroughs, Mrs. Martha I. Sturtevant,
Mrs. Amanda C. Blanchard, Mrs. Martha B. Boyden and Mrs. Carrie H.
\\'aining, on the executive board.
The Club was intended to be a social one, but it undertook some chari
table work during" its first 5'ears, and since its organization has expended over
$600 in individual cases for charity and in furnishing the trustees' room at
the Somerville Hospital, in which has lately been placed, by the Club, a fine
portrait of Col. King. In 1894 Mrs. Clara P. Haven was chosen president;
Mrs. Mary E. King, Mrs. lona L. Robinson and Mrs. Hattie J. Teele, vice-
presidents ; Mrs. Martha A. Mann, secretary ; Mrs. Lydia A. Greely,
treasurer ; executive committee, Mrs. Harriet \\'ilder, Mrs. Ella Burroughs,
Mrs. Mary E. Taylor, Mrs. Abbie E. Southworth and Mrs. Achsa M. Mills.
The Club meetings had been held in the Y. M. C. A. Hall, at Union
square, at 'Social Hall, Eberle Building, and in the Y. M. C. A. Hall, in
Gilman square; but during the year 1894 the Club took up its quarters at
Social Hall, Tufts street, where the gatherings were held, not only for social
enjoyment, but also for discussions of literary subjects, for, as the member
ship increased, the ladies felt it imperative that they undertake some work
of this sort ; and as it had been found to be inexpedient to undertake large
or .extensive charities, it was decided to restrict the work in this direction
to special objects. Six lectures were given during the winter.
In 1895 the officers elected were : president, Mrs. Clara P. Haven ; vice-
presidents, Mrs. Martha A. Mann, Mrs. Lydia A. Shaw and Mrs. Hannah
S. Longfellow: Mrs. Maria F. Hall was secretary, but resigning in March,
Mrs. Fannie B. Kelly [was elected ; Mrs. Lydia ,\. Greely was treasurer,
and on the executive committee were Mrs. .\manda C. Blanchard, Mrs.
Alice M. Bill, Mrs. Achsa M. Mills, Mrs. .\ddie R. Davlin and Mrs. Theresa
S. King. This was a memorable year for the Club, as it undertook careful and
important literary work, established a fund for a home for women in Som
erville, was incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts and joined the
State Federation of Women's Clubs.
The charter members were : Mrs. Mary E. King, Mrs. Harriet .\. Cham
berlin, Mrs. Clara P. Haven, Mrs. Lydia A. Shaw, Mrs. Achsa M. Mills,
Mrs. Fannie B. Kelly, Mrs. Harriet T. Wilder, Mrs. Hattie J. Teele, Mrs.
Theresa S. King, Mrs. Addie R. Davlin, Mrs. Hannah S. Longfellow, Mrs.
Emma F. Bacon, Mrs. Isadore P. Merrill, Mrs. Lydia A. Greely, Mrs.
Adrianna V. Cloyse, Mrs. Amanda C. Blanchard, Mrs. Alice J. Bill, Mrs.
Maria F. Hill, Mrs. Helen McCully.
The present year found the Daughters of Maine in a most prosperous
condition, and while the social element is not lost sight of, the Club is be
coming known as a literary one. The officers for the year are : president,
Mrs. Clara P. Haven ; vice-presidents, Mrs. Lydia A. Shaw, Mrs. Hannah
S. Longfellow, Mrs. Emma F. Bacon ; recording secretaries, Mrs. Dora R.
Houghton, resigned in March, Mrs. Rebecca S. Waldron ; corresponding
secretary, Mrs. Isadore P. Merrill ; executive committee, Mrs. Hattie J.

420 SOMERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT.
Teele, Mrs. Alice S. Waterhouse, Mrs. Achsa M. Mills, Mrs. Mary E. King,
Mrs. Adrianna V. Cloyse, Mrs. Carrie V. Clark, Mrs. Fidelia A. Pratt, Mrs.
Elizabeth G. Gushing.
Each season a dinner is given to the Sons of Maine, and there is also
an annual dinner and reception for Club members, at which the ladies prove
themselves very clever as after-dinner speakers. There is also an outing in
the early summer, which has become quite a feature in the history of the
Club. Through able management, wise judgment, and combined unity of ac
tion and interest, the Daughters of Maine are doing an important work in
our city.
THE HEPTOREAN CLUB.
By Mrs. Barbara Galpin.
" Why does not Somerville have a woman's club 'i " was the question pro
pounded in the " Somerville Journal " in its issue of November 17, 1894, and
in less than one week that which was to become one of the strongest and
best clubs in Massachusetts was organized. The matter of a woman's club
had been discussed many times, and this article in the "Journal " brought
the matter to definite action. By invitation of Mrs. Edward Glines, the
women who were interested in the project met at her residence, Friday,
November 24, 1894, to discuss the feasibility of such an organization.
Among those present were : Mrs. C. A. West, Mrs. E. H. Foote, Mrs. I. A.
Whitcomb, Mrs. C. F. Simes, Mrs. E. T. Bartlett, Mrs. E. G. Woodward,
Mrs. L. R. Wentworth, Mrs. A. C. Aldrich, Mrs. J. E. Whitaker, Mrs. H.
W. Gleason, Mrs. M. D. Frazar, Mrs. W. H. Gleason, Mrs. F. C. Ayer, Mrs.
A. F. FoUett, Mrs. W. H. Brine, Mrs. Barbara Galpin, Mrs. S. Z. Bowman,
Mrs. W. T. Hinckley, Mrs. W. J. Willard and Mrs. Robert Luce.
A discussion of the subject showed it to be the unanimous opinion
that a club which should unite the interests of the women of the city for
mutual improvement would be of great benefit to them, as well as to the
city, and it was at once formed. The officers chosen for the first year's
work were : president, Mrs. C. A. West; vice-presidents, Mrs. E. T. Bart
lett and Mrs. E. H. Foote ; corresponding secretary, Mrs. F. H. Raymond ;
recording secretary, Mrs. E. G. Woodward ; treasurer, Mrs. Barbara Galpin ;
auditor, Mrs. H. G. Minot ; directors, Mrs. W. H. Brine, Mrs. S. Z. Bowman,
Mrs. E. J. Peasley, Mrs. J. H. Butler, Mrs. C. S. Lincoln, Mrs. B. F. Wild,
Mrs. E. S. Tead ; chairmen of committees : Miss H. J. Sanborn, literature ;
Mrs. G. L. Baxter, science ; Mrs. J. E. Sylvester, art ; Mrs. E. H. Capen,
political economy ; Mrs. Sanford Hanscom, music; Mrs. M. D. Frazar, cur
rent events; Mrs. I. A. Whitcomb, hospitality.
At the next meeting it was decided to limit the Club membership to two
hundred, but later on it was extended to three hundred, and in November,
1896, it was again extended, and the Club now has three hundred and fifty
active members, nine non-resident members, and one honorary member —
Mrs. Martha Perry Lowe — and a waiting list of one hundred and sixty.

Mrs. Barbara Galpin.

,^^^,4-:

P

f

Mrs. Anna d. West.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 423
The object of the Club is to bring together women from all parts of the
city for mutual improvement and sociability, and to become an organized
centre for united thought and action.
The Heptorean Club was incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts,
January 15, 1895, and joined the State P'ederatiOn of Women's Clubs the
same year.
During the first year of the existence of the Club lectures were given by
Prof. E. Charlton Black, Prof. G. Stanley Hall, Henry Sandham, William
Lloyd Garrison, Prof. Louis C. Elson, the late Kate Field and others of
equal note, and classes in literature, botany and current events were held,
-Miss Lucia True Ames and Prof. Katherine Lee Bates conducting the lit
erature classes, Miss Frances Prince that in botany, and Mrs. Barbara Gal
pin that in current events.
At the end of the first year the officers were unanimously re-elected, it
being a recognized fact that when a new club is launched upon the waters
of public approval, master hands are required to keep it from running on
the shoals of adverse criticism, of quiet scorn, or of open ridicule.
During the year 1895-1896 a great advance was made in the work of
the Club, due in a great measure to the efforts of the president, Mrs. A.
D. West, a woman of wise judgment, superior executive ability and delicate
tact. Under her leadership, assisted by efficient officers, an enviable repu
tation was made.
Prof. T. H. Bartlett, Mrs. Florence Howe-Hall, Prof. John Fiske, Attor
ney-General Hosea M. Knowlton, Prof. L. C. Elson, Miss Heloise Hersey,
Prof. Henry Southwick and other celebrated speakers addressed the Club
at the regular literary meetings, while the red-letter occasion of the year was
the first gentlemen's night, held February 20, 1896. At the reception which
followed the entertainment the guests were received by the officers of the
Club, assisted by Mayor A. .\. Perry. This was the finest social event ever
held in Somerville, and was attended by the representative people of the
city. At the close of the Club year in May, 1896, the officers elected were as
follows: president, Mrs. A. D. West; vice-presidents, Mrs. J. H. Butler and
Airs. E. H. Capen ; corresponding secretary, Mrs. H. H. Trowbridge ; re
cording secretary, Mrs. E. G. Woodward ; treasurer, Mrs. Barbara Galpin ;
auditor, Mrs. M. D. Frazar ; directors, Mrs. G. E. Dustin, Mrs. Edward
Glines, Mrs. F. M. Howes, Mrs. S. C. Afford, Mrs. J. S. Hayes, Mrs. E. S.
Brooks, Mrs. C. P. Lincoln ; chairmen of committees : Miss Sarah W. Fox,
literature; Mrs. J. E. Sylvester, art; Mrs. Sanford Hanscom, music; Mrs.
G. L. Baxter, science ; Mrs. G. T. Knight, current events ; Mrs. F". H. Ra\--
mond, political economy ; and Mrs. I. A. Whitcomb, hospitality.
The Heptorean Club has proved an important factor in helping to
unify Somerville, bringing its different scattered sections together into
closer and more friendly relations, and, with the exception of the hospital,
there is nothing which so unites the best elements of Somerville life as this
institution.

Helen J. Sanborn.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 425
THE HILLSIDE CLUB.
By Helen J. Sanborn.
The literary society that enters upon the fifteenth year of its existence
with as great a measure of prosperity and promise as has ever characterized
it, since the days of its first enthusiasm, has not only proved its right to be,
but has also demonstrated that it contains some germs of perpetuity and
some standing in the community of which it forms a part. The Hillside
has seen many a club organize, flourish for a time, and then pass away,
while it pursues its work with its form and purpose unchanged, and with
many of its original members still active.
In this day of multiplied organizations it is pertinent to ask, " What is
the well-spring of the life of such a club ? " Simply individual effort, the most
natural and rational source from which the greatest benefit is to be derived
in any walk in life. The members of the Hillside Club do their own work.
They write the papers themselves; and, while much profit and pleasure is
doubtless to be derived from listening to lectures by able professionals, far
more knowledge and enjoyment comes from the investigation of a subject
for one's self, and the presentation of it, in written or spoken form, to others.
Just this opportunity is given in the Hillside Club, and the member who
thinks it the greatest task, and who enters upon it the most reluctantly,
never fails, after it is done, to say, " I am glad I did it. It was good for
me." An evidence that this is the vital principle of the Club is shown by the
fact that those who fall voluntarily out of the ranks are generally from the
list of associate members, who, by the payment of a little larger fee, are
exempt from service. In some cases these are among the most valued
members, for appreciative listeners and faithful attendants at the meetings
are most desirable in any organization, yet they do not sustain the literary
work, and, as a rule, it is the active and not the associate member that
remains longest in the society. It is noticeable, too, that the periods of
temporary eclipse from which the Club has occasionally suffered have oc
curred when it has departed from its first principles, or has introduced
elements foreign to their nature.
The Hillside has never been the exponent of a single church, although
its members and officers have been mainly from the Winter Hill Congrega
tional Church. The first meeting for organization was held in the chapel,
corner of Broadway and Sycamore street, October 10, 1882, when a number
of residents of Winter Hill came together to form a society for literary and
social purposes. Of that meeting, John S. Hayes, who is the real founder
of the Club, acted as chairman, and Henry C. Baldwin as secretary. Two
weeks later the permanent organization was effected, and the following list
of officers chosen for the first year : president, Joseph M. Thompson ; vice-
president. Miss Emma S. Keyes ; secretary, Frank E. Dickerman ; assistant
secretary. Miss Emily G. Colman; treasurer, Frank E. Davis; executive

V

Residence of Irvine A. Whitcomb, 358 Broadway.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 427
committee, Joseph M. Thompson, Rev. Chas. L. Noyes, John S. Hayes,
-Mrs. Willard, S. Farrar, Miss Emma S. Keyes.
Since the first year the following persons have filled the office of
president : John S. Hayes (three years at different periods), John Herbert,
Edwin A. Stone, William E. Pulsifer (two years), Samuel C. Darling, Ed
ward S. Townsend, Helen J. Sanborn (now serving the third year). Rev.
Chas. L. Noyes, pastor of the Winter Hill Congregational Church, has served
upon the executive committee from the beginning, and to his wise judgment
and fertile suggestions the Club is very largely indebted for any measure of
success that it has attained.
The constituency of the Club is the same as that of a large family in
which there is not only a difference in age and sex, but also a wide differ
ence in tastes, in natural gifts and attainments. There are mature and
immature minds ; the scholarly man and the " sweet girl graduate " ; there
are those who can produce papers that would grace any society of " literati,"
and those who, with fear and trembling, can but read that which another
has written. Some of the best literary work from the pen of the present
mayor of Somerville has been prepared especially for the Hillside, of
which he has long been a member. Some find in it their only opportunity
for the investigation of a new subject, and the writing of an original paper.
Others make use of their musical talent, for music often serves as an illus
tration, and always gives an added pleasure to the program. An oppor
tunity for social converse is a part of each evening's plan. A private house
as the meeting-place adds an air of refinement and the charm of hospitality,
and an " outing " in May tends to promote friendly feeling and good-fel
lowship. To prepare a program that shall be profitable to all, and achieve the
greatest good to the greatest number, is the difficult problem that meets the
executive committee each year. Variety there must be, and unity is so de
sirable that a course, when it can be determined upon, is thought by the
present directors, at least, to be most beneficial. One of the most popular
seasons of the Club was enjoyed under the presidency of Dr. H. H. Piper,
when historical novels were the subject. The countries of the Mediter
ranean proved a very profitable theme three years ago, and this year the
study of "our country " will embrace literature, art, science, history, current
events and political economy.
Whenever outside talent is called in, it is always of the highest order,
and it is likely that an "open meeting," once during the season, with a
lecture or a reading, like that of last year, when Prof. J. J. Hayes, of Har
vard University, gave a delightful rendering of a Midsummer Night's
Dream, will be made a feature of the Club.
The Somerville "Journal," in announcing the program for 1894-5,
called the Hillside "one of the important educational factors in our city."
The Club itself makes no claims to distinction, but pursues its work without
ostentation. The only material evidence of its public spirit to which it can
point is the tablets that mark the historic spots of Somerville, placed there

428 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
as the result of a petition from its members. The Club's importance and
its value lie not in the results it achieves, but in the fact that, while it
falls far short of its ideals, it aims for that which is refining, elevating, edu
cational and progressive, and exists " For Mutual Good and Mutual Need."
WEBCOWIT CLUB.
By J. Foster Clark.
The Webcowit Club was organized December 5, 1885, at the call of
Lester L. Cole, who, with thirty others, were charter members of the organi
zation. Their meetings were held in a hall on the corner of Broadway and
Franklin street, and in December, 1886, they moved into their present club
house at 56 Mount Vernon street.
The object of the Club is the promotion of social intercourse, and the
encouragement of kindly feeling and good-fellowship among its members.
The officers are : a president, a vice-president, a treasurer, a secretary and
five directors, who together constitute the executive committee. These
officers are elected by ballot at the annual meeting of the Club, and hold
office until others are chosen, and who accept office in their stead.
The annual meeting of the Club is held on the first Thursday in Decem
ber, and the regular monthly meetings occur in the evening of the first
Thursday of each month.
The club-house is open from eight o'clock a. m. until twelve o'clock
p. M., and the executive committee may, by vote, extend the privileges of
the club-house to any stranger within such limitations as they shall think
proper. Members who invite gentlemen to the club-house are required to
enter their names in a visitor's book kept for that purpose, with his own
name and date of introduction. The club-house may be opened to ladies
accompanied by members of the Club at the pleasure of the executive com
mittee. The Webcowit Club has enrolled as members many of the prominent
citizens of East Somerville, among whom may be named Dr. H. P. Hemen
way, Ex-Mayor Charles G. Pope, Horace Haskins, John Haskell Butler,
Charles H. Buswell, John W. Chatman, William Taylor, Charles Williams,
Jr., John F. Cole, Elijah C. Clark, Amasa E. Southworth, George W. Per
kins, Ex-Mayor Mark F. Burns, Lucius Tuttle, and others. J. Foster Clark
was its .first president, and he was re-elected in 1886 and in 1888 to 1892
inclusive. Mark F. Burns was president in 1887, Robert H. Riddell in 1893
and 1894, and Elijah C. Clark was elected president in 1895 and 1896.
Charles M. Hemenway was the first secretary, and Charles H. Buswell
treasurer. The title Webcowit was adopted at the suggestion of L. L. Cole.
The members have entertained their ladies and friends many times, and
though the Club is prevented from exceeding its limit of membership (one
hundred) by its restricted locality, it has always commanded the respect of
the entire community.

^

^HK^

J'
' ..'s-l^llH
ilMl--^^
£,,
^^K
M
A
^ J
W
i
>
** fJ^-!4fi^ ' ^R^^
s
Elijah C. Clark.
J. Foster Clark.

Fred Preston.

r 4Wf

-r- 'J /

Edwin N. Simonds.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESE.XT. 433
WINTER HILL CLUB.
By John F. Kennard.
This is one of the purely social organizations which abound in Somer
ville, and is at the present time in a flourishing condition. It was organ
ized in the winter of 1884-5 by thirty or more of the prominent citizens of
Winter Hill, who were " desirous of forming a club for the purpose of bring
ing its members into more friendly and social intercourse with each other,
not only in business, but in all matters relating to each other's welfare."
The meeting was held in Brazillian Hall on Broadway, was called to
order by Mr. Charles H. Sanborn, and Mr. J. E. Whitaker was elected
temporary chairman, and Mr. C. H. Sanborn secretary. Mr. Whitaker
then announced the object of the meeting, and subsequently the following
officers were elected for the year 1885- Selwin Z. Bowman, president;
Charles H. Sanborn, vice-president ; J. F. Kennard, secretary and treasurer ;
C. H. Sanborn, J. E. Whitaker, H. F. Woods, D. C. Stillson and J. H.
Woodbury, directors.
It was voted that the organization shall be known as the Winter Hill
Club, and that it shall be located in the building then being erected by the
Odd Fellows' Building Association, at the corner of Broadway and Marshall
street. Since its organization the Club has kept on in the even tenor of its way,
making its headquarters in Odd Fellows' Building, and holding its regular
meetings on the first Saturday of each month. The following is a list of its
officers for the year 1896: Fred. Preston, president-; E. N. Simonds, vice-
president; J. F. Kennard, secretary and treasurer; D. C. Theall, M. C.
Wildes, C. Everett Clark, F. .\. \\'oodbury and Byron Eames, directors.

CHARITABLE AND OTHER SOCIETIES.
BV MARY A. H.VLEV.

THE CHARITY CLUB.
Ix the year 1876 the Somerville Relief Bureau was formed, and it met
every week in the hall of the Police Building on Bow street. The members
furnished materials for sewing, cut out garments, and taught the applicants
how to make them, paying for their labor in money or in clothing. This
Bureau was afterwards associated with the Charity Club.
The Charity Club was organized in 1877, and legally incorporated the
following year. The first meeting was held at the house of Mrs. M. T. Hol
lander, Boston street ; Mr. Henry F. Woods was chosen president. Various
means were used to raise money, the most notable of which were a Dickens
Carnival and a great fair. The fair was held in December, 1878, and was

Mary A. Haley.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 435
one of the most brilliant occasions of the period. The fair was opened by
Mayor Bruce, who was followed by Selwyn Z. Bowman and other speakers.
There was an orchestral concert each evening. Each day a brilliant com-
pan)' gathered there from all parts of the city. A paper was published in
connection with it which contains literary gems well worthy of preservation.
This fair secured for the Charity Club, in addition to money from its pre
paratory entertainments, a sum of not less than two thousand eight hundred
dollars. The purpose of the Club as set forth in its charter was " The relief of
worthy objects of charity, and social improvement, by the distribution of
money, food, fuel and clothing among indigent people."
The charter was signed by Louis P. Hollander, J. Frank Wellington,
Charles S. Lincoln, Rufus B. Stickney, Henry H. Barber, John Haskell
Butler, George A. Bruce, and many others. Charles S. Lincoln was the first
president under the charter. Nineteen directors were also chosen. The
city was divided into districts, each director was appointed over a district
and had a resident committee under him, who were responsible to him for
the expenditure of money.
The meetings were held every month at the different residences in the
city, and after the business was transacted, an agreeable entertainment was
provided, and sometimes a lecturer was invited from Boston to speak on
" Charities." Besides the regular meetings, a series of entertainments was
given for several winters : social parties, a mock trial, and dramatic enter
tainments, at which substantial sums of money were secured. The dis
bursements up to 1883, amounted to nearly four thousand dollars.
The history of the Charity Club is a very important one in the annals
of the city. It differed from other organizations, from the fact that it drew
its members from all parts of the city, and thus an agreeable social harmony
was brought about, so desirable in such a scattered community.
In 1883, the funds of the Club had become somewhat exhausted; the
condition of the country had improved ; and there was less demand on the
part of the poor for assistance. The officers of the Relief Bureau resigned
with the intention of changing the basis of their work, and interest in the
Club declined. The Club existed for some years longer, but shared the
fate of other organizations in the gradual decrease of attendance at its
meetings, and finally it ceased to meet. At present it holds some funds
which it uses at its discretion.
THE CONVERSATION CLUB.
In 1868 a very pleasant club was started on Spring Hill. It met
weekly at the houses of the members on Spring Hill and on Winter Hill.
The time was mainly devoted to the discussion of current topics, literature
and symbolism. Its members included the representative people on both
hills, such as the Rev. and Mrs. Charles Lowe, Mr. and Mrs. Charles S.
Lincoln, Mr. and Mrs. Francis H. Raymond, Mr. and Mrs. S. Foster Damon,

436 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
Mr. and Mrs. George W. Durell, Mr. and Mrs. J. Frank Brown, Mr. and
Mrs. John G. Hall, and many others.
The death of one of the members in 1874 was so sudden and so great an
affliction, that no meeting of the Club was ever held afterwards.
THE SOMERVILLE LITERARY ASSOCIATION.
In 1867 an association for mutual pleasure and profit was formed in
East Somerville. In anticipation of its far-reaching effects, and the good
that might revert to the members, it was called the " Boomerang.'' As the
Club increased in size, and had representatives in all parts of the city, a
more conservative name seemed necessary, and it was called " The Somer
ville Literary Association."
The meetings were held twice a month, and at each meeting a committee
was appointed to prepare a program for subsequent meetings. The pro
gram was always interesting, consisting of music, witticisms, the dis
cussion of new books, and a paper on some important topic of the day.
There was never a dull moment. The year's work was concluded with a
dinner in Boston, and a theatrical performance in which the members were
the actors. The president for man}' years was Thomas I. Delano, Jr. Among the
members were Mr. .'\rthur A. Smith, Miss Alice Cole, J. T. Meader, George
S. Littlefield, James L. Tyler, Jr., Dr. Gerry, the Misses Mary E. Davis,
Martha Ireland, S. Fannie Gerry, Julia Warden and Helen M. Edgerly.
Death and removals from the city gradually diminished its membership,
and those who remained did not care to continue the Club by the addition
of new members, and in 1875 it ceased to exist.
THE SUFFRAGE LEAGUE.
When the Legislature granted the right of voting for the School Com
mittee to women, Mrs. Maria Theresa Hollander and Mrs. Martha Perry
Lowe organizedthe " Woman's Educational Union ; " Mrs. Lowe was its first
and only president, Mrs. Martha B. Pitman was the vice-president, and Miss
Mary A. Haley the secretary. Its membership numbered more than sixty
ladies. The chief object of the Club was to advance the cause of woman,
and assist her in securing the position, as physician, preacher, lawyer, and
school officer, for which, by training, natural ability and moral character,
she was best fitted.
The members were expected to visit the schools in their districts, in
order to become familiar with their management, and thus be able to vote
intelligently for the members of the School Committee.
It had a prosperous existence for many years, the meetings were held
monthly, and such speakers as Arthur Gilman of Cambridge, Mrs. Julia R.
Anagnos, and Dr. Mary Safford, were invited to lecture.
A few years ago it joined the State Suffrage League, and the words
Suffrage League formed a part of its name.
At present Mrs. M. P. Lowe is the honorary president, Mrs. Sarah D.
Field, acting president, and Mrs. S. A. Davenport, secretary.

SOMERVILLE, P.4.ST AND PRESENT. 457
The Municipal Club is an outgrowth of this, and is especially engaged
.n securing the registration of women, in order that they may vote for School
Committees. Subjects of current interest relating to art, literature, and the
household are discussed. Mrs. Maria F. Hill is the president.
THE SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL.
The Society of St. A'incent de Paul was founded in Paris, in May, 1833.
Branches of it soon spread over Europe, and at length reached this coun
try. It is composed of a council of directors, consisting of a spiritual
director, president, vice-presidents and treasurer. It is divided into general
conferences in and around Boston, of which there are thirty-four, that are
organized in the same way, and hold their meetings in the basement of the
Roman Catholic churches or in the parsonages.
The great power of this society consists in the fact that it calls into
service the laymen of the Roman Catholic Church, although the bishops
and priests are their constant advisers, and give them sympathy and encour
agement in the work. Besides their general works of charit)-, they have a
special department in Boston for the protection of children, of which Mr.
Richard Keefe of this city was the agent. His principal business is to find
homes for abandoned infants and neglected children, to rescue young
girls from evil lives, and to give friendly assistance to boys brought for the
first time before the courts. The office is at Room 36, Charity Building,
Chardon street, Boston.
In one year he and his assistant report that they have made 4,000 visits,
placed in homes 659 children, and had 159 boys, who were before the courts
in Boston, placed on probation.
Mr. Keefe was the originator of this branch in Somerville about twenty
years ago, and it is called " St. Joseph's (Jonference of St. Vincent de Paul."
This conference has a membership or working force, composed of twenty-
three men who meet once a week through the year.
The twenty-three members of the older organization are obliged to visit
poor families once each week. They report to an investigating committee
of three persons, always composed of the same members, any case of desti
tution which they discover, and this committee then reports back to the con
ference if the applicants are worthy. The conference then attends to the
family. It does not pay any rents, nor give much money directly, but fur
nishes groceries and fuel by giving the poor orders upon the different
dealers in the city.
Besides ministering to the physical wants of the destitute, the confer
ence endeavors to induce the people to attend to their religious duties, and
often clothes the children in order that they may go to Sunday-school. It
is composed of men of moderate means, who are conscientious and ready to
give their time to the work. But at each meeting the)- are expected to make
a secret contribution of money, small or large, for the poor ; and it is a note
worthy fact that the amount raised by these members secretly last year
was greater than that contributed by any other conference in the diocese.

438 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
The value of these conferences, however, is not estimated by the amount of
money raised, but by the faithfulness of the members in attending the
meetings and making their weekly visits. Outside of these working mem
bers is a list of subscribing members, among those men who are more
wealthy, and who make a liberal annual donation, although they have not
time to attend to the work. Some money is raised by collections in the
church, but the system of obtaining funds by entertainments has been
abandoned, as it developed some features which made it seem objectionable
to their spiritual advisers.
The conference of late years pays more attention to the special work
which we have already recorded as being done in Boston, that is, the care
of abandoned and neglected children, and boys arrested for a first offense.
The society makes no distinctions in race, creed or color.
THE LITTLE SISTERS OF THE POOR.
This institution has existed in Somerville about two years. It is a
branch of the great society of the same name founded in Europe, and gradu
ally extending to this country. The building faces on Highland avenue,
and receives aged people of both sexes without respect to their religious
opinions or any requirement of money. The home is governed by a mother
superior and sisters, who collect their funds from door to door in the city,
and are also assisted by donations and legacies from time to time. About
fifty persons can be accommodated in the building. Religious services are
held every day, but Protestants are not obliged to go to mass.
The dining room is large and comfortable, and the pleasant ample
grounds will be further improved when the necessary funds are obtained
for it. The inmates are allowed to see their friends on Sunday, and the
sisters are happy .on that day to receive any visitors who are inclined to call
upon them and see the working of the institution.
THE FRIENDLY HELPERS OF THE POOR.
Many members of the charity club became convinced that the practice
of giving money was attended with dangers to the self-respect of the poor,
and after the dissolution of the labor bureau, which required a good deal of
capital for the purchase of cloth for its work, the above organization was
formed. It consisted of about a dozen young ladies who met once a week, on
Thursdays, at the overseer's room in the Police Building, to receive poor
women who wished opportunities to do washing and house-cleaning, and
to confer with gentlemen and ladies who desire such help, thus bring
ing about a wholesome unity of action between employer and employed.
Besides giving work to these women, the Friendly Helpers collected clothing
for the children, and in cases of sickness they visited the families, with
alleviation for the sufferers.

REMINISCENCES OF SOMERVILLE.

BY MARTHA i'ERRY LOWE.

I HAVE been asked to give some reminiscences of the early days of
Somerville. My memory only goes back to the year 1859, in which year
my husband received a call to the Parish of the First Congregational (Uni-
, tarian) Society of Somerville. It was difficult to find a satisfactory house,
and as everyone said that real estate was a safe investment here, we pur
chased a lot of land at what we called the "jumping off" point of Summer
street, and built a house adjoining a large open pasture, ^^'hile the house
was building, we spent two nights in the neighborhood. The first night,
strange to say, at the McLean .-Vsylum, with our beloved friends, Mr. and
Mrs. Columbus Tyler. We had a delightful time, and enjoyed walking in
the ample grounds, and hearing the birds sing in the noble elm-trees, all
planted Linder the supervision of Mr. Tyler. I cannot think without pain
of the destruction of those beautiful grounds and trees, in order to give
room for unsightly railroad freight-houses, and am quite sure that those
who come after us will blame us
for sacrificing such a spot to the
demands of business, when so much
is being done now to provide breath
ing spaces for the multitudes in our
cities. If Cambridge would unite
with us in securing the property, we
might bequeath a valuable gift to
posterity. We were very much pleased
with the rural aspect of the town.
Our second visit was at the hospi
table home of Mr. John S. Edgerly
on Winter Hill, who lived in the
dignified house once occupied by
Edward Everett. It was then a
square, substantial colonial house,
but has undergone considerable .
alteration. The land was all more
or less opeXbetween Summer street
and Highland avenue ; and the
earthworks of our Revolutionary
Fathers were still seen, and the crows even were cawing in the tall elms
scattered about on the hillsides. As the population began to crowd upon
439

MARTHA PERRY LOWE.

440

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

us, we bought land from time to time to protect ourselves and the street,
and pastured our cows and our neighbors' cows in the field which was the
resort of all the children around us, and often a playground for the boys in
their ball games. We had only a line of omnibuses in our neighborhood
as a conveyance to Boston, and I well remember that one day, in coming
out, a teamster grazed the wheel of our omnibus, and our driver stopped
his horses, jumped off the box, pulled him off his seat to the ground
and pummeled him until the blood ran, while the passengers sat waiting
inside. Some of us left our seats and said we would have the omnibus
driver arrested, but it was in the days of incendiaries, and we were
afraid he might set fire to our houses, and so we let the matter rest — so
much for law and order at that period.
Our favorite walks were at Nor
ton's Woods — where the anemones
grew in abundance, and the grounds
were not entirely fenced in, until
rough boys abused the privilege —
and at Polly Swamp. Here fathers
and mothers with their children
were often walking Sundays, and
wild violets and jacks-in-the-pulpit
and many other flowers grew there.
The place is now almost entirely
built over, but some of the pro
prietors have had the good taste
to save the tall trees in their neigh
borhood from the hand of the con
tractor and builder. I ought also
to have mentioned the old Jaques
place, leading from Broadway to
wards the brick-yards. The house
was large, in the colonial style, and
full of old memories, redolent of co
lonial hospitality. .\ short walk from
there were seen the old convent grounds and buildings rudely destroyed by
ruffians in one of those freaks of religious fanaticism worthy of the days of
St. Bartholomew. This happened some years before I came to Somerville,
but it was a sad pleasure to walk among those deserted grounds with relics
of cultivation and beauty around, which reminded us of the deserted mon
astery grounds of Port Royal in France. One of the most attractive old
houses was that of Oliver Tufts, on Sycamore street, which had been in
that family for generations. It was a pleasure to see him there with his
gentle invalid wife, who kept up the nice old-fashioned housekeeping. We
bought our hay of him, and always invited him to come into the house.
.Although he often wore his long blue farmer's frock, he had the manners of
a gentleman : using the most elegant language, and conversing well on a

y

REV. CHARLES LOWE.

SOMERVILLE. PAST AND PRESENT. 44 1
variety of topics. Another member of the Tufts family, probably a distant
relative, was Nathan Tufts, who lived at the corner of Medford and Washing
ton streets, and was identified with the early history of the town. He was a
man of decided opinions, Christian convictions, and of sterling character.
He once remarked in his old age that he was almost impatient to "go into
the next world and see what there was on the other side," showing a per
fect faith in immortality, not so common nowadays. It is a satisfaction to
see his place well kept up, and occupied by two of his children.
Robert Vinal was another early resident here, a constant supporter of
the institutions of religion, and of every good cause, which spirit he has be
queathed to his descendants. The old Spring Place was long a noted fea
ture in what was called Milk Row, now Somerville avenue, ^\'e have always
regretted that the name was changed. The Spring Place stood high from
the street, with extensive grounds, and large trees. We took tea there once
or twice, and were much impressed with the size and attractiveness of the
old-fashioned low-studded rooms, especially the large square parlor. Mr. A.
C. Spring did an extensive business in Boston ; and yet when he came home
from New York, early Sunday mornings, his wife said she could not prevail
upon him to rest. He would always insist upon going to church. Jonathan
Brown, of Winter Hill, is one of our oldest and most esteemed citizens.
His great age and the preser ition of his faculties show that he is a man
who keeps his intellect sharpened by the study of literature and the progress
of science, and his moral nature, stimulated by a sympathy with all good
causes, can never grow old. Cutler Downer, who had a handsome residence
on Central street, was. much beloved by his neighbors and friends. He did
an immense business in Boston, and was pronounced by one who knew him
well one of the most " absolutely honest brokers he had ever known."
Rufus B. Stickney's elegant home on the next street was always given to
hospitality, and the pretty cottage of the venerable John Boles, at the top of
Broadway, was a pleasant feature of the landscape. Although he was a man
of wealth, he preferred it to the most stately mansion. It had a very fine
view from its piazza, and was always kept in exquisite order. He amused
himself in his old age by making beautiful inlaid boxes of the finest wood,
which he presented to his friends. His only fear was, that the city would
dig down the green embankment which fronted his house, in order to widen
the street. The change was never made, although the house has been en
larged by his son-in-law. His widow for many years resided there, with onh-
a companion, but her religious faith and courage cheered her loneliness, and
she was often visited by her children and her neighbors. Deacon Charles
Foster occupied the fine old house on Broadway, built somewhat in the
Grecian style, with large columns to support the piazza. He had been for
merly a member of the parish of the distinguished Dr. George E. Ellis, of
Charlestown, and brought all his spirit of faithfulness and consecration to
his adopted church. This house has since been moved to a different situa
tion. On Spring Hill there were Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Pitman, who occupied

442 SO.MERVILLE, PA.ST AND PRESENT.
the estate left to her by her brother, Mr. Minot, who presented a fine bell
to the Unitarian Church. Mrs. Pitman was a Swedenborgian, and an in
timate friend of the poet Whittier, and one of the early anti-slavery leaders.
Mr. Pitman was a genial, cultivated man, and their home was a gathering-
place for some of the most notable people in New England. Just across the
way was the Brackett family in Chestnut court. The father, mother and
children were all devoted to intellectual and philanthropic pursuits. The
parents are not living, but the son and daughters, although no longer in
Somerville, are among the first educators in the country. Major Brastow
was a striking personality, always hospitable, ready to oblige a friend, one
who loved to joke about his experiences in the war, and tell how he "gradu
ated at Bull Run." Mr. Samuel T. Frost was a genial neighbor, often seen
working in his garden, which was a little compensation to him for the loss
of the old gable-roofed colonial house and estate not far off, owned by his
father, and often the headquarters of Washington in this vicinity. Father
Durell's pleasant face was often seen on the street. Dr. Luther V. Bell,
of the asylum, lost his life from exposure as an army surgeon. He was
much esteemed, as was also his assistant, Dr. Booth, who married Miss
Tufts, now Mrs. B. F. Allen. He was a man of genius and of cheerful re
ligious philosophy, so said Dr. Bowditch ; and the story is told of him, that
when he was at the point of death, his mother said to him : " My son, have
you made your peace with God ? " " Mother," he answered, " I never had
any quarrel with God.'"
Many pleasant reminiscences I might also record of Lebbeus Stet
son, clerk of the court for many years ; John G. Hall, well known for his
business integrity and wide intelligence ; Major Allen, an early and promi
nent figure on the streets of Spring Hill ; and Charles E. Gilman, town and
city clerk for many years.
Among women of note were Mrs. Sarah Munro, prominent in all good
works, Mrs. Columbus Tyler, the Mary who " had a little lamb," a mother
in Israel. Mrs. Maria Theresa Hollander, a lady of extraordinary executive
ability and progressive thought, and Mrs. C. A. Skinner, remarkable for the
vigor of her mind, her devout faith, and her efforts for the cause of woman
at Tufts College. Mrs. E. M. Everett, too early called away, was a valuable
officer of the W. C. T. U., and also a superior worker in the religious train
ing of the young. Many fine school-teachers have retired here from their
labors, whose names we would be glad to mention if our space permitted.
Several persons of eminence have lived here for short intervals : D. A.
Wasson, philosopher and poet, G. Stanley Hall, educator, and others ; but
we have already exceeded our limits, and must leave the past of Somerville,
with good hopes for its future. There are doubtless many esteemed families
of the old days which I have not mentioned, for the reason that in conse
quence of the people of the town being scattered they did not come under
my observation, but these deficiencies will, I trust, be made up by other con
tributors to this volume.

HOME CIRCLE.
BY GEORGE I. VINCEXT.

WASHINGTON COUNCIL, No. 9.
Of the four councils of the Home Circle in Somerville, Washington
No. 9 is the oldest. It was instituted in Pythian Hall, Union square, on
the evening of February 21, 1880, by the supreme leader, Henry Damon,
and had thirty-two charter members. Stillman H. Libby was the first leader,
and under his administration the council was auspiciously established, and
it has continued prosperous to the present time.
The Home Circle, as is well known, is a fraternal beneficiary order, and
while its beneficial feature is the more prominent, yet the spirit of fraternity
and good-fellowship is active among its members, and a fruitful source of
pleasure and profit. The manifestation of this fraternal spirit is not limited,
by Washington Council, within its own membership or the membership of
the order, but is extended in works of charity as opportunity offers.
The ladies of the council have organized a sewing circle, which meets
at the homes of its members, the gentlemen being entertained at supper and
by games of cards in the evening. Many of the products of this society
are supplied to families in need, while others are disposed of by sale, and
the proceeds applied as the society may deem advisable ; the Somerville
Hospital and the Day Nursery being among those that have been remem
bered. The council participated in both of the hospital fairs, the receipts from
the tables being augmented by donation from the council funds.
Sociability has been promoted by excursions, and by card-parties and
entertainments in connection with the meetings of the council. A very suc
cessful series of dancing parties, extending through several winters, has
also been conducted. While the object of these parties has been simply to
provide a pleasant evening for the members of the council, their children
and friends, yet the financial result has been the accumulation of a sub
stantial sum, which has been invested by the trustees. It may also be said,
in passing, that the council is in easy financial circumstances.
Washington Council has lost, by death, five of its members, the benefi
ciaries of whom were promptly paid the full amounts of their benefit certi
ficates, which ranged from one thousand to five thousand dollars.
The council has continued as tenants of the Knights of Pythias since
its institution; but in the fall of 1895 the hall which that order had oc
cupied in Union square was taken for business purposes, and the old Odd
Fellows Hall, at No. 45 Union square, over Hotel Warren, was leased by
the Knights, and became Pythian Hall ; Washington Council meeting there
in for the first time December 12, 1895. The apartments are among the
most spacious and convenient society rooms to be found in the State.
The meetings of the council are held on the second and fourth Thurs-
443

444 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST .IND PRESENT.
day evenings of every month at eight o'clock, and all members of the order
are welcome. It is hardly necessary to present the merits of fraternal beneficiary
orders. It is well known that they place within the reach of all a moderate
amount of life insurance at cost ; enabling people of limited income to make
provision for dependent relatives. The Home Circle is among the younger
of these orders, but it ranks with the best, is progressive, and pays all obliga
tions promptly.
HARMONY COUNCIL, No. 43.
Wednesday evening, March 8, 1882, thirty-four ladies and gentlemen of
Winter Hill, having petitioned the supreme council of the Home Circle for a
charter, met at Fraternity Hall, and organized a council of the Home Circle,
the supreme leader, Julius M. Swain, now- supreme secretary of the order,
occupyingthe chair. Messrs. B. P. Lovejoy, Edwin Taylorand J. F. Kennard
presented the name of Harmony Council, No. 43, which was accepted.
The following officers were elected and installed : leader, B. P. Love
joy; vice-leader, Mrs. M. A. Kennard; instructor, Mrs. A. S. Farrar; past
leader, Fred P. Orcutt; secretary, C. H. Colgate; financier, C. W. Gulliver;
treasurer, J. F. Kennard; guide, S. M. Craig; warden, Mrs. E. S. Lovejoy;
sentinel, C. E. Simpson ; trustees, F. L. Walker, Edwin Taylor, A. P.
Griffin. Harmony Council has met now for several years, on the second and
fourth Wednesdays of the month, in the beautiful lodge-rooms of Odd Fel
lows Hall. The council is in a prosperous condition, with 113 members and
reserve funds in the bank. It has paid out in death benefits over thirty
thousand dollars.
The officers in charge for 1896 are as follows: leader, Mrs. Annie L.
Elliott ; vice-leader, Mrs. Amelia A. Davis ; instructor, Mrs. M. Ella Durell ;
past leader, Mrs. John L. Potter ; secretary. Miss Abbie F. Gage ; financier,
Mrs. Mary R. Hamlet ; treasurer, D. Edward Mansfield ; guide, Ernest S.
Firth ; warden, Mrs. Emma G. Smith ; sentinel, John L. Potter ; trustees,
J. A. Durell, E. G. Davis, J. F. Kennard.
SOMERVILLE COUNCIL, No. 103.
This council was instituted July 7, 1886, at the residence of Hon. J.
Haskell Butler, on Pearl street. Thirty-three members were present, and
they organized by electing Herbert E. Merrill, leader ; and Dr. Sanford
Hanscom, past leader.
Quarters were secured in Arcanum Hall, on the corner of Broadway
and Franklin street, and its meetings are still held there. It has been very
successful, both as regards increase in membership, which has reached 226
and is the largest of any council in the order in this State, and in fraternal
feeling, no differences of any nature having arisen among its members.
The leaders have been as follows : H. E. Merrill, Mrs. Mary E. Dustin,
Mrs. Martha B. Clark, J. Foster Clark, A. H. Libby, C. P. Battelle, E. W.
Southworth, C. L. Underbill, and Mrs. B. P. Liscomb, the present leader.

LOYAL ORANGE INSTITUTION.
by f. o. J. tarbox, w. m.

MT. HOREB LODGE, No. 19.
This lodge was founded in Cambridgeport, April 10, 1871, with a mem
bership composed chiefly of residents of Arlington and Somerville. It was
located in Cambridge, with the expectation that a large membership would
soon be obtained in that city, but the anticipations were not realized, and
the lodge struggled on until November 21, 1874, when it was removed to
Arlington. It remained in that town nearly thirteen years, when it was
moved to Somerville, and located in Templar Hall, on Summer street. On
November 30, 1891, it changed its quarters to Pythian Hall, Union square,
and when that hall was transferred to Hotel \\'arren, the lodge was again
moved to Pythian Hall, where it is now located.
Thomas Pratt of Arlington was the first \\'. M., and following him
have been eighteen others in the same office, among whom were a number
of our prominent citizens.
Mt. Horeb is the parent of three other lodges, and it still holds a large
and increasing membership ; in fact, the increase during the past year has
been phenomenal, and the indications are that there will be but slight cessa
tion for admission for some time to come. Every person to be eligible to
membership in the Orange Institution of the United States must be a firm
believer in the Holy Bible and an American citizen, and those who have
been members are expected to always recognize that bond of universal
brotherhood and the tenets of the order : Justice, truth and righteousness
to all God's creatures, to help the weak and infirm, to care for the sick and
dying, and to maintain the liberties of the people and the freedom of our
institutions even unto death.
Mt. Horeb Lodge meets on the first and third Wednesday evenings of
each month. Its officers for the current year are : F. O. J. Tarbox, W. M. ;
C. D. Lowery, D. M. ; Rev. Wm. H. Lannin, chaplain ; Samuel D. Bond,
D. of C. ; Wm. Taylor, recording secretary ; Thomas Henderson, financial
secretary; Samuel L. Morrison, treasurer; Herbert Bennett, in-tiler; Wm.
Hamilton, out-tiler.
There are many other associations and clubs in Somerville in addition
to those already treated of, the most important of which are the \\'onoha-
quaham Tribe No. 69, I. O. of Red Men, Knights of Columbus, several
lodges of Knights of Honor, lodges of N. E. Order of Protection, Order of
the Eastern Star, several temperance organizations. United Order of Pilgrim
Fathers, etc., and it is much to be regretted that their histories have not
been received for publication in this work. 445

BANKS OF SOMERVILLE.
By J. O. HAY'DEN.

CHAPTER XXV.
The banks of Somerville are a source of pride to her citizens. They
are all young institutions it is true, but they rank with the best in the State
and enjoy a first-class reputation for shrewd management and careful in
vestments. For several years the savings bank and two co-operative banks supplied
the wants of the community to a certain extent, but from time to time the
advisability of organizing a national bank was discussed.
With few manufacturing establishments located within her borders, and
surrounded by cities having old and prosperous national banks, it was
thought that a similar institution in this city would have a precarious exist
ence at the best, but a spirit of enterprise finally prevailed, and in August,
1892, the Somerville National Bank opened its doors.
Its usefulness was demonstrated in a very few weeks, and by conserva
tive management it has made for itself a good record.
It started with a capital of 1 100,000, and after the first year paid to its
stockholders 6 per cent per annum on their investment, and has accumu
lated a surplus fund, which at the present time amounts to $16,000.
Mr. Quincy A. Vinal was the first president, and it was largely owing
to his able efforts in conducting the bank affairs, and to his marked business
qualifications, that the institution gained a firm footing early in its career.
Mr. Vinal retired in January, 1894.
The management of the bank is now in the hands of the following gen
tlemen : J. O. Hayden, president; John A. Gale, vice-president; James F.
Beard, cashier ; Allen F. Carpenter, Simon Connor, A. Marcellus Kidder,
James F. Hathaway, David D. Lord, Walter C. Mentzer, Frederick W.
Parker, Albion A. Perry, George O. Proctor, Nathan H. Read, Frederic
W. Stone, J. Frank Wellington, L. Roger Wentworth, directors.
The banking rooms are centrally located at No. 58 Union square, Stone
building. The Somerville Savings Bank was incorporated February 24, 1885, and
opened for business on the 15th of April the same year. Its first president
was Oren S. Knapp, Esq., who held the office until his death in November,
1890, and gave much of his time to a watchful care of its interests. He was
succeeded by Albion A. Perry, who has since held the position, ably admin
istering the trust confided in him.
446

Philip Eberle.

Silas Harvey Holland.

J. Warren Bailey.

Oliver H. Perry.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRE.SENT. 451
The bank has enjoyed continuous prosperity and a constant growth of
business. Two weeks after the organization of the bank the total assets
amounted to #6,259.25. A year later they amounted to 538,974. 4.S. At the
present time they amount to ,«;6 11,000. The present number of depositors
is 3200. The management of the bank is vested in a board of trustees composed
as follows : president, Albion A. Perry ; vice-presidents, Silas H. Holland,
J. Walter Sanborn ; clerk and treasurer, Frederic W. Stone ; George L.
Baxter, Charles A. Cushman, Philip Eberle, Horace P. Makechnie, J. Wal
ter Sanborn, Josiah Q. Bennett, S. Newton Cutler, J. O. Hayden, Marshall
H. Locke, William Veazie.
The banking rooms are at No. 57 Union square. Stone building.

The Somerville Co-operative Bank was chartered May 4, 1880, and is
to-day one of the foremost institutions of its kind in the State. The last re
port of its affairs to the Savings Bank Commissioners showed the assets to
be ^565,263.55. Thirty-three series of shares have been issued, and the
earnings have averaged 6 per cent. The number of shareholders, October
19, 1896, was 1,318.
The officers of the bank are as follows : president, J. Frank \'\'ellington ;
vice-president, George W. Snow ; secretary and treasurer, Franklin J.
Hamblin ; directors, Marshall H. Locke, Benjamin F. Thompson, James F.
Beard, Charles S. Butters, Charles Mills, Cutler C. Crowell, Fred C. Ayer,
Nathan H. Reed, Ezra D. Souther, Samuel T. Richards, George A. Kim
ball, Herbert W. Raymond, Miah G. Kenny, William S. Miller, Belvin T.
Williston ; auditors, Horace M. Parsons, Howard B. Chase, Otis H. Cur
rier ; attorney, Herbert A. Chapin.
The banking rooms are at 59 Union square. Stone building.

The West Somerville Co-operative Bank was chartered November 29,
1890, and during the six years it has been in operation it has accumulated
assets of ^^157,450, and has never paid less than 6 per cent dividend to its
shareholders. Thirteen series of shares have been issued. The officers of
the bank are as follows : president, J. Warren Bailey ; vice-president, W. C.
Mentzer ; secretary and treasurer, O. H. Perry ; directors, A. J. Stevens,
F. F. Stockwell, L. E. Merry, F. F. Phillips, C. L. Stevens, C. A. G. Win
ther, S. F. Woodbridge, W. A. Muzzey, D. E. Robbins, J. F. Terry, E. D.
Lacount, W. A. Snow, E. S. Sparrow, R. S. Wright, G. W. Bryant; attor
ney, D. C. Delano.
The banking rooms are at 3 Studio building, Davis square. West Som
erville.

INDUSTRIES OF SOMERVILLE.

CHAPTER XXVI.
Somerville is pre-eminently a residential city. Its near proximity to
Boston, its unrivalled means of access by steam railroads and electric lines
of street railway, its charming diversity of beautiful hills and rolling
plateaus, and its generally good sanitary conditions have rendered it a
favorite abiding-place, and as a " city of homes " it ranks among the high
est in the Commonwealth.
It is, however, not alone as a sleeping-place for Boston's thousands of
busy workers that Somerville is distinguished, for it has within its borders
industries of such considerable importance that it stands fifth in the list of
the manufacturing cities of the State. These industries are diversified, and
they cover almost every line of work, and some of them are of very great
magnitude and financial standing. Among these, and leading the others in
importance, is the immense establishment of the
NORTH PACKING AND PROVISION CO.
The business was established in 1855, but the company was not incor
porated until January 2, 1890.
The business at this packing-house consists of " the slaughtering of
hogs, rendering, curing, packing, jobbing and exporting the product of the
same, together with the packing of beef and the general distribution of fresh
and cured meats to all markets of the world."
The packing-house occupies thirteen acres of land, and the substantial
brick buildings are equipped with the latest and most approved machinery
for conducting the business in an economic and systematic manner.
The main and connecting buildings are six hundred and fifty feet long
by one hundred and fifty feet wide, and five to nine stories high. In the
main building on the Medford-street side are situated the packing-house
offices of the company : these offices are spacious, airy and convenient, and
accommodate a large working force, which consists of superintendent, pay
masters, bookkeepers, entry and receiving clerks, auditors, and shipping
and time clerks. The other buildings consist of engine, boiler, electrical
and ice-machinery plant, one hundred and ten feet long by one hundred
feet wide, three stories high, with chimney one hundred and seventy-six
feet high ; blacksmith, wheelwright, and general repair shop, seventy feet
long, fifty feet wide, three stories high ; stable, one hundred and thirty-five
feet long, eighty feet wide, three stories high ; the wholesale and retail
452

Charles A. Cushman.

454 SOMERVILLE, P. 1ST AND PRESENT.
market, one hundred feet long, eighty feet wide, three stories high ; steam
cooperage plant, three hundred feet long, one hundred feet wide, four
stories high ; cold storage warehouse, one hundred and seventy-five feet
long, one hundred and twenty-five feet wide, six stories high, having a stor
age capacity of seventy-five thousand barrels.
Besides the cold storage warehouse there are over six acres of floor
surface under refrigeration in the other buildings, the entire plant having a
capacity of handling five thousand hogs per day.
These buildings are located within two miles of the business centre of
Boston, and in close proximity to all the rail and water transportation lines
entering and leaving the city, with tracks of the Grand Junction Railroad on
the south side of the buildings and the Fitchburg on the north, entering the
yards and connecting with all railways west, and east, by which all live
animals and other supplies are received, and a large amount of manufac
tured product is delivered to the wharves of Atlantic steamship lines for
export and coastwise trade ; also carloads are delivered to interior points in
this country direct from the packing-house. Track facilities of the company
will accommodate one hundred cars at a time in its yards.
The live hogs which furnish the basis of the manufacturing operations
are largely purchased at markets in the West receiving live stock, and
transported in latest approved stock cars direct to the packing-house, where
they are unloaded at the live-stock storage building, which is nine stories
high, each floor being constructed of brick and cement, with troughs
through which running water is supplied, with a capacity of storing and
yarding twelve to fourteen thousand hogs.
The entire plant has recently been remodelled and enlarged, and is the
most complete packing-house in the world. All departments of this busi
ness are conducted in the most orderly and cleanly manner imaginable,
and great care is exercised in the selection of animals by experienced
buyers. The business of the company amounts to over $15,000,000 annually,
eight hundred thousand hogs being slaughtered and their products distrib
uted to the various markets of the world.
There are employed by the company at the packing-house upwards of
twelve hundred men, in its various departments.
The officers of the company are : G. F. Swift, Pres. ; E. C. Swift, Treas.
and Gen. Manager; S. Henry Skilton, Asst. Manager; Charles A. Cush
man, Superintendent.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST .4ND PRESE.XT. 455
THE FRESH POND ICE COMPANY.
Another important industry in this city is that of the Fresh Pond Ice
Company. The business done by this concern is immense, the freight bills
paid by the company being among the heaviest of all that are paid to the
Fitchburg Railroad. The ice is obtained at Lake Muscatanapus in Brook
line, N. H., where the company has a plant of great magnitude, the immense
ice-houses, which are eleven in number, having a storage capacity of upwards
of 70,000 tons. The ice is remarkably free from impurities, being considered
by experts the best that is offered in this vicinity, and so careful is the com
pany to maintain this purity that it has bought and now controls the entire
shore of the lake, thus preventing every possible danger of pollution. Up
wards of two hundred and fifty men are employed in harvesting the crop,
and only the latest and most 'approved tools and machinery are used.
The ice is brought from the storage houses in Brookline in special re
frigerator cars by the Fitchburg Railroad to the extensive sheds belonging
to the company, located between Washington street and the railroad, where
it is loaded on the ice-wagons and distributed to consumers.
Thirty-six of these great wagons and eighty horses, the best that can be
procured, are owned by the company, and from fifty to seventy-five men are
employed in the daily distribution of the ice.
The officers of the company are: Josiah Q. Bennett, president; T. S.
Hittinger, superintendent ; and E. A. Davenport, treasurer.
THE SPR.\GUE AND HATHAWAY COMPANY.
The Sprague and Hathaway Portrait Copying House in West Somer
ville is an important industrial establishment, one whose products probably
reach every corner of the civilized world.
The business of this company was established in 1874, by J. F. Hatha
way and W. D. Sprague, under the firm name of Sprague and Hathaway.
The business was originally established in a small way at the corner of
Beach street and Harrison avenue, Boston. Cheap rents and better light
were the inducements offered them to remove to West Somerville, which at
that time could hardly be called even a thriving settlement.
.\fter two years Mr. \A'. D. Sprague, on account of failing health, was
obliged to retire from the business, and for many years it was under the
sole control of Mr. J. F. Hathaway, the president of the present corpora
tion. Originally located in the wooden building at the corner of Holland
and Wallace streets, they outgrew the capacity of their quarters, and in 18.S7
erected, at a cost of forty thousand dollars, the handsome studio building at
the corner of Day street and Davis square.
In 1890 the business had further increased to such an extent that it
was decided to form a stock company, and in September of that year the
Sprague and Hathaway Company was incorporated with a capital of one
hundred thousand dollars. Another and larger brick and granite building
was erected at the corner of Day and Herbert streets, and was thoroughly
equipped with every modern improvement.

Section of Yard of the Fresh Pond Ice Company.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 457

THE UNION GLASS COMPANY.
Another of the important industries of Somerville is that of the Union
Glass Company, whose works are situated on \\'ebster avenue near Union
square. This business was founded originally in 1854 by Mr. Emery
Houghton. It was only fairly successful, and in 1864 Mr. Houghton sold the
property to the present company, which was incorporated in that year under
the title of the Union Glass Company. The first year's business was not
very good, and new capital had to be put into the enterprise.
It was not until 1870 that the company entered upon an era of prosper
ity, one which lasted for about fifteen years. The gentlemen then con
nected with the institution were men of great commercial sagacity, and at
that time the competition of the West was only in its infanc)-. New England
still retaining prestige in glass-making. The principal articles of manufac
ture were pressed work, chimneys, gas globes, lamps and chemical ware.
By degrees the utility of the company was enhanced by the addition of
a cutting department, and by its putting upon the market the largest line
of artistic vases ever produced in America. By dint of perseverance it
solved the long concealed secret of the ^'enetian art of decorating glass with
gold worked into the metal, not applied as paint upon the exterior, and vases
of the most delicate workmanship, fully equal to European articles, are now
manufactured in these works.
F'rom its glass-cutting department issues choice cut glass that is dis
played in the windows of Boston's largest glass stores. Many of the best
establishments in the principal states of the Union are supplied in part from
this factory. In 1862 Mr. John Haines brought to the factory the art of silvering
glass, and the Union Glass Company manufactures and exports the greatest
number of silvered glass reflectors of any concern in the United States.
This is the only remaining glass factory in the vicinity of Boston, and
despite the changes which through force of cheaper producing material have
driven the once flourishing industries away from the East in the past few
years, the Union Company has persistently held its own against a great
competition, by the principle of manufacturing only the very best quality of
glass. In its various departments the company gives employment to about two
hundred people, and as many of these reside in Somerville, the factory re
mains a large contributor to the prosperity of its native town.
The officers of the corporation at the present time are : Mr. Julian de
Cordova, president ; Mr. Lewis Hall, president Lechmere Bank, treasurer ;
directors : Mr. J.C. Bullard, president East Cambridge National Bank; Mr.
Herbert Nash, of Boston ; and Mr. W . S. Blake, Melrose.

FACTORY OF THE DERBY DESK COMPANY.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT. 459
DERBY DESK COMPANY.
On January 1, 1881, George H. Derby and Frederick M. Kilmer formed
a partnership for the purpose of manufacturing office furniture, chiefly roll-
top desks. Beginning in the upper stories of a small building on Beverly
street, they were soon obliged to enlarge their store premises and manufac
turing facilities. Moving their store to 55 Charlestown street, they hired
a factory in Cambridge. These quarters were soon outgrown, and they
very shortly enlarged their store by the addition of two bruldings, taking the
rent of the entire block of three buildings at 55 Charlestown street. The
next move was to look about Boston and vicinity for a site for a new factory.
After careful examination of the different locations they settled upon the lot
at the corner of Vernon and Central streets in this city, and purchasing a
strip at the back end of the lot of \A'arren Pollard, they erected a five-story
wooden building.
In a few years the growth of their business required additional space,
and they then erected the large two-story brick building, which comprises a
large part of their present plant, .\fter about eight years' use this, too, soon
became somewhat crowded, and believing, in January, 1895, that business
was about to revive generally over the country, they began the erection of
the present large seven-story brick building on Vernon street, which, with
its equipments, has but recently been completed.
This desk and office-furniture manufacturing plant is now believed to
be the largest and best equipped factory where office furniture solely is
made in the country, and perhaps in the world.
About three years ago the Pond Desk Company went out of business,
sold their effects to the Derby & Kilmer Desk Company, and shortly the
company's name was changed to Derby, Kilmer & Pond Desk Company.
Last year another desk company known as the Somerville Desk Compan)-,
but located with their factory in Cambridge, and salesroom in Boston, went
out of business, they also selling their stock to the Derby, Kilmer & Pond
Desk Company.
In July, 1895, the company's name was changed to Derby Desk Com
pany. This company enjoys a reputation the world over for fine standard
desks and office furniture. Its present officers are : George H. Derby, presi
dent ; Frederick M. Kilmer, treasurer and secretary ; and Edward F. Pond,
general manager.

46o SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
BRICK-MAKING.
At one time a considerable portion of the town of Somerville was oc
cupied by brick-yards, and among those who operated them we find the
names of some of the most respected men of the town, as for instance : Benj.
Parker, Wm. Jaques, Gardner Ring, Albert Kenneson, Mark and Benj.
Fisk, Kinsley Bros., Benj. Hadley, David Washburn, Chauncey Holt,
Samuel Littlefield, John and Joseph P. Sanborn, Edmund Cutter and many
others, nearly twenty in all. But times have changed with the increase in
population, and to-day the only brick-making plant in Somerville is the one
operated by Wm. A. Sanborn, whose father and uncle were brick-makers
before him.
From the days when the farmers' sons of New Hampshire and Maine
came to Massachusetts to earn the money that their farms did not supply,
and made the labor of brick-making respected by their sturdy honesty of
character, through the transition period of labor by a foreign population,
the business of brick-making has been so improved that it has become al
most a science.
Twenty years ago but little machinery was used, and a much longer
time was required for the same output than is to-day needed, with the help
of machinery at almost every stage of the process.
This brick business, the only existing one in Somerville, was estab
lished by Joseph P. Sanborn about 1849. At his death, in 1874, his son
Wm. A. Sanborn continued the business near Mt. Benedict, on Mystic
avenue, and then, in company with J. W. Hatch, in 1876, he removed to Ten
Hills, where he has since continued, Mr. Hatch retiring from the business
in 1891. Since that year the output from this yard has been nearly two million
bricks per annum, but clay having become scarce and land more valuable,
Mr. Sanborn has been compelled to establish a branch yard in New Hamp
shire, the output from which has been equal to that of the Somerville yard
for the past year.
Somerville bricks are known as among the best in the eastern market,
and, about three years ago, Mr. Sanborn wishing to mark a certain grade of
his product, stamped the bricks with the letter S ; this stamp has become
well known in surrounding cities as well as Somerville, and is recognized as
a guarantee for a superior grade of bricks.
Mr. Sanborn is now filling a contract calling for five hundred thousand
bricks for the outside of the spacious hotel being built at the corner of
Boylston and Tremont streets, Boston. He also furnished the outside brick
for the new Tremont Building in Boston and for the Glines schoolhouse in
Somerville.

William A. Sanborn.

462 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

THE MIDDLESEX BLEACH, DYE AND PRINT WORKS.
This establishment, located on Somerville avenue, was incorporated in
1821. .V short historical sketch is given of it on page 78 of this volume.
THE AMERICAN BRASS TUBE V\'ORKS
Is another of the long established manufacturing concerns of the city, it
having begun operations in 1854. Its product of seamless brass tubes is
well known to mechanics, and its output is very large.
CARPET CLEANING, ETC.
Probably the largest carpet-cleaning establishment in New England is
that of G. F. Hurn & Co., on Broadway, East Somerville. Not only is this
firm possessed of the largest plant, in point of floor-space, size of wheel and
all the accessories that go to make up such an establishment, but it is gen
erally conceded, Hurn & Co. do by far the largest business in this line of
any establishment in New England.
Last spring brought to the firm a decided increase in facilities, a new
1 5-horsepower engine having been put in to supplement the huge new
boiler which was put in place last fall.
Carpet cleaning, however, is not all that this firm does. The repairing
of furniture, making over of mattresses and renovating of feather beds are
specialties, and the workmanship is of the very best quality.

There are many other important manufacturing establishments in Som
erville, some of which are of considerable magnitude. The principal of
these are the cooperage works of the S. Armstrong Company, the W^illiams
Table and Lumber Company, works of the I. H. Brown Moulding Company,
carriage manufacturing establishments of Frank W. Leavitt and William T.
Henderson, distillery of Daniel E. Chase & Co., extensive works of the
Somerville Electric Lighting Co., Somerville Iron Foundry, New England
Oil Co., New England Dressed Meat and Wool Co., West Somerville Mould
ing Mill, a portion of the great plant of J. P. Squire & Co., Cushman Bros.
& Co., shade roller manufactory, and the jewelry and novelty works of
M. W. Carr & Co.
These, with an infinite number of such minor industries as are always
found in a municipality of the magnitude of Somerville, make a list of very
considerable importance, and place the city in a prominent position among
those of the Commonwealth.

Tank Cars of New England Oil Company.

Somerville Highlands Station, Boston and Maine Railroad.

MISCELLANEOUS.

CHAPTER XXVII.
Boston and Maine Railroad. — Street Railways of Somerville. — The "Somerville
Journal." — The "Somer\'ille Citizen." — Westwood Road and its Residenles.
BOSTON & MAINE RAILROAD.
The city of Somerville, without the Boston & Maine Railroad, bisecting
it and linking it with the great world without, is simply an unimaginable
community. The mile posts between this city and Boston, where the great
transportation system has its principal terminus, are not many, but even
were that avenue of steam communication, alone, cut off, the effect upon
the growth and welfare of the smaller city would be simply revolutionary.
Few of the nearly eight hundred stations on the line of the Boston &
Maine bear such an intimate relation to the system, physically and finan
cially, as do those that lie within the limits of Somerville. They are no
fewer than eight in number, and this fact of itself speaks eloquently of the
extent of the territory covered by the city and the density of its population.
As might naturally be expected of a wide-awake administration, the
present management of the railroad has always been willing to meet the
people of Somerville more than half way in respect to train and station ac
commodations, and it can safely be stated that the service now rendered
the traveling public by the Boston & Maine is fully commensurate with the
relationship their patronage bears to the passenger-traffic receipts of the
company. Three of the road's important divisions — the Eastern, Western and
Southern — traverse the city in whole or in part, the Southern Division per
forming the heaviest service, trains on the other two divisions stopping at
East Somerville only. .\t the latter station as many as ninety-one trains
stop each week day, going to and coming from Boston, and these, with the
numerous freight trains that pass and repass in a never-ending procession,
make this part of Somerville one of the most important railroad centers in
the country. In addition to this enormous through and local passenger and freight
business, the railroad company is now engaged in creating a new and ex
tensive auxiliary freight terminus on the grounds formerly occupied by the
McLean Asylum, its business having expanded to such immense propor
tions that the Boston terminals have become sorely taxed. It may thus be
said that the Boston & Maine Railroad has practically annexed Somerville to
465

466

SO.MERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT.

the city of Boston, despite the declaration of its citizens against that proj
ect, as expressed in recent popular votes.
The immense strides which Somerville has taken in population during
the past decade is told in the comparative showing of train statistics, as
well as in the census figures themselves. Taking the years 1896 and 1886
as a basis for comparison, it is found that the average number of trains
stopping at the different Somerville stations is much larger to-day than ten
years ago.
The Prospect Hill (formerly Milk Row) and Winter Hill stations show
the highest percentage of increase, and illustrate how popular these places
have lately become as residential sections. In 1886 a total of thirty-two
week-day and nineteen Sunday trains stopped at Prospect Hill. To-day the
number is eighty-two on week days and thirty-six on Sundays, a total in
crease over 1886 of fifty week-day and seventeen Sunday trains. In 1886
fifty-nine week-day trains and 23 Sunday trains stopped at Winter Hill. To
day the number is ninety-three week-day and forty Sunday trains.

WINTER HILL STATION, 6OSTON AND MAINE RAILROAD.

As a possibly interesting contribution to this part of Somerville's his
tory, covering, as it does, a most significant ten-year period in its municipal
existence, the following table, showing the train statistics for the time in
question, and compiled by the passenger department of the Boston &
.Maine, is given : —

Prospect Hill Station, Boston and Maine Railroad.

468

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

1896.

(886.

From
Boston.

To
Boston

Total
from and to.

From
Boston.

To
Boston.

Total
from and to.

Week Sun
days, days.

Week Sun
days, days.

Week days.

Sun.
days

Week Sun
days, days.

Week Sun
days, days.

Week Sun
days, days.

East Somerville (W. Div.)
(E. Div.)
Prospect Hill
Winter Hill ...
Somerville Junction .
Somerville Highlands
West Somerville
North Somerville .

40 20
37 14
41 iS
47 21
40 17
26 7
29 7
21 10

51 24
32 15
41 18
46 19
39 17
20 7
25 7
22 II

91 69
8293 79
46 5443

4429364034 1414
21

36 15
32 8
22 ID
29 12
37 II
27 4
18 7

55 16
47 10
23 9
30 II
36 13
24 4
17 8

91 31
79 iS
32 19
59 23
73 24
51 8
35 15

In the period mentioned several of the old stations of the road have
been replaced by new and modern ones, the most expensive and attractive
of which are those at Winter Hill and Prospect Hill.
To the tremendous growth of the Boston &: Maine system itself in
the ten years in question it is scarcely necessary to refer at length here.
The increase in mileage, traffic and income, partly from natural growth and
partly because of consolidations with or purchase of connecting roads, is
almost startling. The Boston & Maine to-day has a total operated mileage
of upwards of 1,900 miles, carries 35,000,000 passengers and 257,000,000 tons
of freight annually, earns a gross income of ^21,000,000, from which 6,290
shareholders draw dividends, owns 665 locomotives, and 1,201 passenger
and 12,384 freight cars, and has a total capital stock and funded debt of
143,500,000.

MoDiiKN hi.iciKii' Car oi' iiii; West Hnd SrKi:iT Railway.

West End Car-House at West Somerville.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST A.XD PRESENT.

STREET RAILWAYS IN SOMERVILLE.
The first instance in New England of the transportation of passengers
in a railway car by horse power was the operation of a track formerly be
longing to the Fitchburg Railroad, between Harvard square, Cambridge, and
Union square, Somerville. A small horse-railroad had been built previously
in New York City in 1842, which was the first street railway in the world.
The second street railway was the Cambridge Road, between Harvard
square, Cambridge, and Bowdoin square, Boston, and the first car on that
road was run in March, 1856. The running of cars on the Fitchburg track
before mentioned had been discontinued prior to that time.
In 1854 the Middlesex Railroad Company was chartered, with authority
to build tracks in Somerville, but did not do so. Consequently, in 1857, the
Somerville Horse Railroad was formed for that purpose, and its incorpora
tors were George O. Brastow, Samuel A. Snow and Isaac F. Shepard. The
first track built under this charter ran from Union square to the Charles
town line, and was leased to the Middlesex Road.
In 1863 the Legislature authorized the Somerville Road to extend its
tracks to West Somerville and through Bridge street to Cambridge street.
East Cambridge, and these last-named tracks were leased to the Cambridge
Road. The Middlesex Road meanwhile had extended its lines through the
Winter Hill district to Medford; and about 1880 the Charles River Railway
built a track beginning at Summer street, Somerville, and extending
through Cambridgeport into Boston, and also a track on Beacon street
extending to North avenue, Cambridge. This was the total of the street
railway tracks operated in Somerville in 1887 (aggregating about six and
one-half miles) at the time of the West End Street Railway consolidation,
and all were operated by horse-power.
All this in the year 1896 is greatly changed. The amount of track
operated in Somerville is more than doubled, and the following statistics
will give some indication of the development of the street railway business
in that city. In 1888 twenty-eight different lines started in Somerville, and
four lines passed through portions of the city. The average length of the
round trip was 9.015 miles. The total number of car miles run was 1,927,968,
and the number of passengers carried was 12,944,494.
In the year 1896 the number of lines starting from Somerville was
thirty-seven, and the lines passing through Somerville, six. The average
length of the round trip was increased to nearly eleven miles, an increase
of 17X per cent. The car miles run were 2,798,239 — an increase of 41
per cent, — and the number of passengers carried was 20,890,798. The in
creased accommodation for passengers in car space was much greater than
is shown above, since all the lines in Somerville are now electric lines, and
the electric car is 50 per cent larger than the horse car.
The mileage and number of passengers above given include the whole
trip, large parts of which are in Boston or other places, and there is no
way of determining how much is strictly Somerville business ; but the fig-

47^ SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
ures given will show approximately the ratio of increase. The figures of
ten years ago, before the consolidation, cannot be obtained ; but it is safe
to say that the business has doubled within the last ten years, and accom
modations have much more than doubled. The fares on the different lines,
notwithstanding the great distances traveled (which are about three miles
per round trip greater than the average on the road), are five cents, and in
addition there are free-transfer privileges as follows : —
In Charlestown, Somerville passengers can be transferred without
charge to Everett, Maiden and Medford. At Dudley street, in Roxbury,
free transfers can be had to Milton, Franklin Park, Dorchester, Forest
Hills or South Boston ; and Somerville passengers crossing Craigie or West
Boston bridges can there obtain free transfers to all connecting cars run
ning into Boston ; and by means of an eight-cent check Somerville people
can be carried by two rides to any of the suburbs to which the cars of the
West End Street Railway run.
Thus Somerville has perhaps the best street railway facilities of any
suburb of Boston, and to this fact is largely to be attributed the phenomenal
increase of that city in population and importance. The company's real
estate in Somerville is taxed for $249,800. The three principal car stations
will accommodate two hundred and forty-two large electric cars ; and pic
tures accompanying this sketch show one of the car-houses and the style of
car now in use.

Somerville Journal Building.

-^¦«»».~/

J. O. Hayden.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 47 d
" SOMERVILLE JOURNAL."
Of all the strictly local papers of the country, the '¦ Somerville Journal"
stands among the first, — in the quantity and quality of the news which it
prints, in its editorial tone, in the neatness of its appearance, and in its
financial standing. Through constant efforts to please its readers, and to
keep abreast or ahead of the times, the "Journal" has won its way to wide
popularity. Its familiar heading, with the old Powder House in the center,
is known to all the inhabitants.
The first issue of the paper appeared December 8, 1870, and it was then
published by W. A. Greenough & Co., the directory makers. During the
next few years the paper changed hands several times, till October 20, 1876,
when it came into the control of the present proprietors. Among its early
owners were Col. Russell H. Conwell, then a resident of Somerville, but
now the great Philadelphia clergyman, and John A. Cummings, who after
ward became mayor of the city. With the change of ownership in October,
1876, came many improvements. A new press was bought, and the paper,
which had previously been printed in Boston, had all its work done in
Somerville, in an office on the third floor of the Hill Building in Union
square. Here it remained, steadily growing and requiring more room, till
in July, 1894, it moved into the handsome new building of its own on \\'al-
nut street. The establishment is controlled by the Somerville Journal
Company, of which J. O. Hayden is the manager.
Started, as the " Journal " was, at a time when Somerville was changing
rapidly from a country town into a populous and thriving city, the paper
has, naturally, had an influence in Somerville's development, pointing out
and advocating through its editorial or news columns public needs, and
otherwise using its influence for the good of the city. Many of the most
useful public improvements that have been made during the past twenty-
five years had their beginning through a suggestion in the "Journal." Be
sides its regular staff of writers, the " Journal " has been especially fortunate
in the number of occasional correspondents, who by their contributions of
poems or of special articles have added greatly to the interest and life of
its columns. The " Pencilling " column has been one of its most popular
features, quotations from which are made every week by the leading papers
throughout the United States and in foreign countries. Another depart
ment which has appealed to many readers is its excellent woman's page.
The "Journal's" equipment is one of the most extensive in New Eng
land, outside of Boston. Occupying three floors of a large brick building,
it has all the appliances necessary for carrying on a great newspaper and
job printing establishment, including three large fast-running presses, four
job presses, together with folding, cutting and mailing machines, two Mer-
gen thaler linotype machines (the "Journal " being one of the first suburban
papers to use them), and tons of type of all kinds. Altogether the "Journal "
employs a force of nearly fifty hands. Such papers or magazines as the
Journal of Education, the American Primary Teacher, the Writer, and
others, are regularly printed at the "Journal" office.

William Preble Jones.

William E. Brigham.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 479

THE "SOMERVILLE CITIZEN."
The " Somerville Citizen," one of the standard institutions of the city, is
a representative of the highest type of the weekly local newspaper. It was
established in August, 1888, in response to a natural demand for a newspaper
on the northern slope of the city, and has for several years been comfort
ably domiciled in the pretentious Citizen Building in Gilman square, which
is almost exactly in the center of the city. A. M. Bridgman was its original
manager, and has since been succeeded by Frank H. Hardison, Edgar Perry
and William E. Brigham, at present its able head, who took charge in
December, 1894. The Citizen Publishing Company, composed of men of
the highest character and standing, owned the paper until June, 1896, when
greatly increased business made a reorganization advisable, and the Somer
ville Citizen Company, in which several of the old stockholders remained
and many new ones entered, bought the property and materially augmented
the plant. The " Citizen " now has one of the finest printing offices in the
State, from which are issued the " Somerville Citizen," a weekly paper
which easily stands in the front rank in the matter of make-up, several
smaller periodicals and a general line of job work of the best class. The
office is equipped with four efficient presses and all other machinery and
material necessary to the carrying on of a modern printing business.
As a newspaper, whether considered editorially or as a purveyor of
news, the "Citizen" stands high, as is proven by its general circulation
among the leading families of the city. It is conducted with a single eye to
the best interests of the city of Somerville, and it is outspoken upon matters
of public concern. Under its comparatively new management its business
and its popularity have grown steadily, and its influence, always consider
able, has increased to the point of actual power. Improvements in plant,
staff and service are continually being made, and it is the confident opinion
of its numerous friends that the " Citizen " is destined within a very short
time to become one of the exceptional newspaper successes of the State.
The "Citizen Building " so called was built in the summer of 1890, by
the present owners, Messrs. J. E. A. Mulliken and Geo. H. Moore. The
triangular piece of land on which it stands was owned by a wealthy resident
of Medford, and no one supposed it could be bought at any price.
The original plan of the owners was for only a story and half building
to cover about one half of the land, but as soon as it was made known that
a building was to be erected, the applications for tenancy came so fast that
instead of the smaller building the present structure was erected. At the
request of the Citizen Publishing Company, which had engaged quarters in
the building, it was named the " Citizen Building.''

48o SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

WESTWOOD ROAD AND ITS RESIDENCES.
It is with no little pleasure that we are able to illustrate one of the
most beautiful portions of the city ; we refer to Westwood road and its
modern, up-to-date residences. This fine, well kept road with its charming
homes well illustrates what can be done, by the exercise of taste and fore
thought on the part of those in our city managing or developing some of our
large estates, — and shows in a marked degree, by its prompt public recog
nition, what might have been done a few years ago, to make our city the
most sightly and attractive suburb of Boston.
Somerville had great natural resources that were overlooked. There
are yet many lessons that could be drawn from the two-year history of West-
wood road. In the fall of 1894, only two years prior to this publication, the
old estate belonging to the late Hon. James M. Shute, adjoining the Ben
ton Farm on Spring Hill, was bought by a member of the Benton family.
Mr. Bradshaw immediately moved the mansion house to an ample lot at
one side, and proceeded at once to build. a road from Central street to the
Benton Farm, after the latest and most approved method of road-building,
with sewer, water and gas all put in before the macadamizing was laid
on a substratum of ash and cinder, thoroughly rolled. Last of all the curb
ing and paving of the gutters. There is no other section of road in our city
that can compare with it for fine road-bed, and it reflects great credit on our
street department as well as on Mr. Bradshaw. After the estate had been
plotted out and graded, the series of houses represented in the accompany
ing pages were built ; and from their thoroughness of construction, and from
the care displayed in having them of the latest designs, and each entirely
different from the others while all were built with the closest regard to their
juxtaposition, Mr. Bradshaw has found an immediate sale for them, almost
as soon as they were started and months before their completion. In the
winter of 1895, one year after the road was built, Mr. Bradshaw did a thing
never before tried in Massachusetts, although successfully done in Washing
ton, D. C, and Newport, E.. I., the moving of a number of the largest trees
on the estate — trees fifty and sixty years of age, large elms and maples, —
out to the street line of the lots, some a distance of three hundred feet to
their new locations. When one realizes that some of these trees were nearly
fifty feet tall and eight or nine feet in circumference, it will be seen what an
undertaking it was. But when the present summer came and the new road
was beautifully shaded with large shade-trees — a two-year-old road with
fifty-year-old trees — then the wisdom and good judgment of Mr. Bradshaw
in the development of the property was more than apparent.
In addition to this enterprise Mr. Bradshaw has just begun to lay out
the Benton Farm, and make Benton road, which connects with Westwood
road, a continued lovely spot for suburban estates.

Residence of Charles H. Bradshaw, Summer Street.
Residence of Rev. Nathan K. Bishop, Westwood Road.

Residences on Westwood Road.

Residences on Westwood Road.

BIOGRAPHIES.

CHAPTER XXVIII.

Aldrich, Capt. Harrison, was born in Williamsville, Vt., September i8, 1840, son
of Daniel T. and Laura Whipple Aldrich, of old revolutionary stock. His education was
obtained in his native town in the district and high schools, and at Powers Institute, Ber-
nardston, Mass. When the war broke out he was teaching school in Petersham, Mass. He
gave up teaching and enlisted in Co. K, 21st Regt., Mass. Vols., serving as private, ser
geant, lieutenant and captain; participating in the battles of Roanoke Island, Newbern,
Camden, Second Bull Run, Chantilly, Antietam and Fredericksburg. Was wounded in the
battle of Newbern. The arduous service of the regiment causing its reduction in numbers
and its consolidation with the 36th Regiment, Capt. Aldrich resigned his commission, received
an honorable discharge and returned to his native town, where he married Helen Louisa Morse,
daughter of Benjamin E. and Mary(Howe)Morse. In i855 he came to Boston and entered the
produce business, in which he has been successfully engaged for the past thirty years. He
came to Somerville in 1880, and soon after bought land on the undeveloped part of Gilman
street, laid out a new street leading from it, which now bears his name, and started develop
ment in that section by building several modern houses, which example was rapidly followed
by others until the entire section was built upon. Eight years later he bought land and
built a fine residence, 23 Franklin street, where he has since resided.
He served in the Common Council in 1884 and 1885, and on the Board of Aldermen,
1886 and 1887. He was the first captain of the Somerville Light Infantry after its reorgan
ization in 1886. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M. ; Somerville Chapter, R. A. M. ;
Post 139, G. A. R.; Loyal Legion, U. S.; Boston Chamber of Commerce; and Boston Fruit
and Produce Exchange.
Andrews, James Mills, son of Thomas and Clara (Mills) Andrews, was born in Free
dom, N. H., May 22, 1837. He was educated in his native town, and in 1857 removed to
Charlestown, and in 1885 came to Somerville to reside. In 1862 he was married to Mira
A. Wood, daughter of Horace P. and Belinda A. Wood of Freedom, N. H., and they have
one son, Horace. Mr. Andrews is engaged with his son, under the firm name of J. M.
Andrews and Son, as carpenters and builders, and they have erected some of the most im
portant edifices in this and the adjoining cities. Mr. Andrews is a member of Carroll Lodge,
F. A. A. M., of Freedom, N. H., the Royal Arch Chapter and Orient Council of Somerville,
the Coeur de Lion Commandery and .Scottish Rite Masons, and the Ivanhoe Lodge,
Knights of Pythias. In 1895 ^^ served the city as a member of the Common Council from
Ward 3, and in i8g6 as a member of the Board of Aldermen, being in that year chairman
of the committees on printing and the police.
Andrews, John, was born in Southington, Conn., in 1845, the son of William and
Theodosia (Evans) Andrews. His education was begun in the public schools of his native
town, and completed at the Hudson River Institute at Claverick, N. Y. At the beginning of
the war he enlisted as a private in the First Connecticut Cavalry, was promoted twice and
served until the close of the war. He then engaged in the building business with his father.
While a resident of Killingly, Conn., he served on the School Board of that town. Mr.
484

L. Frank Arnold.

Residence of George W. Bentley, 19 Adams Street.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 487
.\ndre'ws has for a number of years been engaged in the asbestos business, and is at present
connected with the Asbestos Paper Co., Boston. He came to Somerville in 1884, and has
served the city one year in the Common Council, and two years, 1893 ^"^ 1894, in the Board
of Aldermen, being president of the board in 1894. He is a member of the John Abbot
Lodge, Y. A. A. M., Willard C. Kinsley Post, G. A. R., and the Loyal Legion. Mr. Andrews
was married to Miss Mary E. Graham, October 28, 1874. They have four children and
reside at 34 Albion street.
Armstrong, William M., was born at Mechanic Falls, Me., August 17, 1850, the
son of Francis and Rebecca (Merriam) Armstrong. When four years of age he went to
Cape Cod, where he remained until he was sixteen. For « year he was employed by the
Baltimore .Steamship Company, and then was for a time engaged in ship and fur
niture carving. He subsequently went with his brother Samuel into the cooperage business
in Boston, remaining with him fifteen years, until 1886, when his brother died. The firm
came to Somerville about fifteen years ago, where it continues, doing a large business at its
shops on Somerville avenue. In addition to its works in this city, the firm has a mill at
Athol, Mass., and another at Brookline, N. H. Mr. Armstrong was for a number of years
president of the Somerville Y. M. C. A., and is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.,
Somerville Chapter, Royal Arcanum, and United Workmen. He served the city in the
Common Council of 1890. He married Mary A., daughter of Isaiah and PhebeN. (Fish)
I latch of Sandwich, Mass. They reside on Summer street.
Arnold, L. Frank, was born at Somerville, September 4, 1845, the son of Leonard
and Irene G. (Clark) Arnold. His education was obtained in the Somerville schools, and
he has always resided in this city. He is interested in street railways and in real estate in
Boston, and is well known among business men as one full of industry and enthusiasm in
the work in which he is engaged. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. .V. JL,
and other Masonic bodies; is a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, and is
one of the order of the Cincinnati and the only member in Somerville; in this organization
he succeeded his father, Leonard Arnold, who, at the time of his death, was the oldest
living member, having belonged to the society fifty-five years. Mr. .\rnold married Miss
Lilla E. Poole, October 25, 1877. Their residence is at 28 Vinal avenue.
Backus, Edward, was born in Cambridgeport, Mass., August 9, 1848, the son of
George B. and Jane G. Backus. He attended school in his native city, and went tu Maine in
1S69, where he followed various pursuits, remaining four years. In 1874 he engaged with
Stearns & George, Boston, electricians, and after five yeais went to work for the American
Bell Telephone Company, with which he remained twelve years, leaving there to go with the
Gamewell Fire Alarm Telegraph Company, where he acquired greater knowledge, which
served him and the city of Somerville to great advantage when Mr. Backus was appointed
superintendent of the city fire alarm telegraph in 1889. He held the position three years,
and then went to Cambridge, where he became connected with the Cambridge Fire x\larm
system, and this year was called back to Somerville to be superintendent of the lamps of
the entire city, having charge of about ninety miles of wire, 470 arc and 360 incandescent
lamps, full control of the fire alarm and police signal systems, the city telephones, etc.
Mr. Backus can be called a thorough master of his business, and discharges his duties
with efficiency, promptness, courtesy and fidelity. He came to Somerville in 1887, and now
resides at 91 Munroe street. He married Mary Ellen Doe of Lexington in 1873, ^^^ l"^^
two children. Mr. Backus is a member of St. Omer Lodge of Knights of Pythias, of Cam
bridge. Bailey, Ernest W., was born December 20, 1866, at the old homestead, corner of
Highland avenue and Central street, and has continued to live there until the present time.
His father, .\. H. Bailey, one of the first residents of Somerville, died when his son was

488 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
about thirteen years of age. Mr. Bailey received his education in the public schools of this
city, graduating from the Forster Grammar School, attending the High School and com
pleting his school days at Tufts College, where he fitted for the profession of a civil engineer.
On leaving college he entered one of the oldest and best engineering firms in Boston, where
he acquired the practical and business knowledge of the profession he had chosen to follow.
Mr. Bailey remained with this firm about two and one-half years, being engaged in all lines
of engineering; in August, 1887, he was selected, by the former city engineer, H. L. Eaton,
as his first assistant in the City Engineering Department of Somerville, which position he
held until the death of Mr. Eaton in November, 1895. Mr. Bailey was then made the
acting city engineer for the remainder of that year, and, in January, 1896, was appointed
city engineer, being the youngest of the city's officials. During his first year as city engi
neer some of the most important engineering in the city has been carried out, such as the
connecting of the entire system of city sewers with the metropolitan or state sewer, and the
large storm-water drain and sewer through the Tannery Brook Valley in West Somerville,
besides many other local improvements in the engineering line.
Mr. Bailey is a member of the Boston Society of Civil Engineers, the New England
Water Works Association, Somerville Central Club, Somerville Young Men's Christian
Association, and other social organizations.
Bailey, J. Warren. New Hampshire has furnished many prominent sons now resi
dents of our growing city, and among those highly esteemed is the subject of this sketch.
Mr. Bailey was born in Derry, June 3, 1846, the son of Jeremiah and Harriet N. Bailey.
His school advantages were favorable to his receiving a fine education, and at the age of
nineteen he was appointed to a position in the Rhode Island State Prison, remaining there
in four years, and retiring as deputy warden. He then went to the Massachusetts State Pris
on, where he served in a similar capacity, under Warden Haynes. In 1872 he had tired of
the line he had pursued so long, and established himself in business in Bromfield street, Bos-
ton,.but the store "was soon too small for his increasing trade, and nearly thirteen years ago
he moved to the spacious store at 108 Tremont street, where he now conducts the finest em
broidery establishment to be found in Boston, as many of our citizens can testify. Mr. Bailey
came to Somerville in 1872, was elected to the Common Council eight years after, and re
elected the subsequent year, being chosen president of the body. In 1884 and 1885 he was
elected to the House of Representatives, where he served with marked distinction. He has
always taken great interest in any matter relating to West Somerville, and his name is identi
fied with all the prominent fraternal and social organizations, besides that of the Day-street
Congregational Church. He is now president of the flourishing West Somerville Co-opera
tive Bank ; a member of Elm Council, Royal Arcanum; Cameron Lodge, Knights of Honor;
and Provident Lodge, A. O. U. W., in all of which he has been the presiding officer.
July r, 1894, Governor Greenhalge, in looking over the State for a prison commissioner,
selected Mr. Bailey as being one who by experience and education would cause him to fill
the position with credit, and he was appointed for the term of five years and immediately
confirmed. Mr. Bailey married for his first wife Miss Emeline R. Clark, daughter of Eben T. and
Rebecca (Kimball) Clark, and had one daughter, Edith Newell, now a young lady promi
nent in Somerville's society. His second wife was Miss Jennie N. Loud, daughter of George
B. and Susan J. Loud, of Plymouth, Me. Mrs. Bailey has always taken a lively interest in
local affairs, especially in church and philanthropic work. They reside at the corner of Or
chard and Dover streets.
Baldwin, Fred C, for the past three years master of the Forster School, is a native
of the Granite State, having been born at Nashua in 1859. His early education was obtained
in the schools of Manchester, N. H., and he was graduated from Dartmouth College in the

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 489
class of 1 881. Previous to his graduation he taught winter terms at Har\vich and South
Dennis, Mass., and subsequently was engaged at the latter to\\'n until the winter of 1883,
when he was called to the mastership of the Franklin-street School of Manchester, N. H.
After a service of seven years he was promoted to the mastership of the Ash-street School,
the largest school in the city. Here he completed the tenth year of his connection with
the schools of Manchester before accepting his present position in .Somerville.
Ball, John N., was born at Antrim, X. H., in 1835. When he was three months old
his parents removed to Marlow, where he attended the district and high schools, remaining
there until he was seventeen years of age. He then went to Nashua, where he kept a hotel
eight years. Subsequently he removed to Wisconsin where he resided two years, and then
went to New Orleans where he remained eight years, from 1863 to 1871, two years of which
he was engaged in the United States custom service and four years as deputy collector of
revenue. Mr. Ball has been in the pasted-shoe stock business for many years, having a
factory at North Somerville. He is a member of the Common Council and of the Knights
of Honor, and resides at 690 Broadway.
Barker, Nathaniel C, assistant chief of the Somerville Fire Department, was born at
Piermont, N. H., Sept. 28, 1836, and was educated in the public schools of that town. When
sixteen years of age he went to Manchester, N. H., and found employment in one of the
cotton mills there. He had been a resident of that city but a few months when he was
elected a member of the Torrent No. 5 Hand-engine Company, and subsequently elected second
assistant foreman, which position he held when that engine made its famous record of 180
feet perpendicular playing at the Worcester, Mass., firemen's muster, September 5, 1857,
which gave it first prize, defeating fifty-three competitors, including the best engines in New
England. Captain Barker held the pipe on that historical occasion.
When the war broke out he was one of the first to enlist, and went to the front with
the nth N. H. Volunteers, one of the best regiments that went from that State. He was
elected corporal soon after enlistment, and subsequently promoted to sergeant. He was
wounded at Cold Harbor, which confined him to the hospital eleven months, and rendered
him unfit for further service. He then returned to New Hampshire, and after a long con
tinued sickness was appointed a turnkey at the Hillsboro' County Jail, where he remained
eighteen months, resigning to learn the trade of carpenter.
He came to Somerville in 1870, and entered the employ of a prominent builder, and
has been engaged in the building business ever since. October i, 1871, he was enrolled as
a member of Hook and Ladder Co. No. i, and was promoted to assistant foreman in January,
1872, and foreman,'i875, which position he occupied until promoted to his present position
in January, 1877. He is a prominent member of the G. A. R. and other organizations.
Barnes, Walter S., son of Clark and Sarah (Corse) Barnes, was born in Enosburg,
X\.., November 2, 1838. He was educated in the district schools. He came to Boston in
1855, and was employed in a hat and cap store. In 1861 he became bookkeeper for a
paper-box manufacturer, and in 1868 went into the business on his own account. His es
tablishment was burned out in the great fire of 1872, and again in March, 1893, by the
Essex-street fire. He moved to Somerville in 1863, and was elected to the Common Council
in 1872, 1873 and again in 1876. In 1879 he was a member of.the School Board, and from
1883 to 1888 was a member of the Somerville Water Board, and as such did most efficient
and valuable service. He was a member of the standing committee of the First Congrega
tional (Unitarian) Church for several years from 1859, and served as treasurer of that society.
He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Paul Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F., and Winter
Hill Lodge, K. H. Mr. Barnes married Miss Melissa, daughter of Mosel and Abigail
(Goddard) Aldrich of Middlesex, Vt. His business, that of a paper-box manufacturer, is
located at 301-3 Congress street.

George E. Baxter.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 49'
Baxter, George E., was born in Pawtucket, R. I., April 19, 1856. His parents re
moved to Boston in 1858, and he received his education in the pubUc schools of that city.
He went to work in his thirteenth year, and when sixteen years old secured employment
with a veneer and lumber concern, and has since been identified with that business. Mr.
Baxter was for four years treasurer of the Lumber Dealers' Association of Boston. In 1885
he entered into partnership with Mr. John M. Woods under the firm name of John M.
Woods & Co., and remained as a partner in that concern until September i, 1894, when he
withdrew his interest and started in business in his own name in the same line with extensive
yards, dry kilns, etc., in East Cambridge, with an office in Boston.
In 1876 Mr. Baxter was married to Miss Charlotte R. Myers of Boston, and a year later
came to Somerville to reside. In 1888 he bought the estate No. 75 Boston street, and has
since largely improved it. In politics Mr. Baxter has been a Democrat, and has been honored
with the nomination to the School Board in 1892, the Legislature in 1893, ^"'I ™ '^94 "'^^
nominated for Mayor of the city. Mr. Baxter is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., an
officer in Somerville Royal Arch Chapter and Orient Council of R. & S. M., and a member
of De Molay Commandery. Is past dictator of Warren Lodge, K. of IT., and a member of
AVinter Hill Lodge, U. O. of W.
Baxter, George L., the son of William W. and Ann E. (Weld) Baxter, was born at
Quincy, Mass., October 21, 1842, and is descended from Gregory Baxter, who came from
England with \\'inthrop, and married Margaret Paddy, sister of William Paddy of the
Plymouth Colony. He obtained his early education in the Quincy schools, entering at
eleven years upon a course preparatory to college with special reference to the profession of
teaching, was admitted to Harvard College in 1859 and graduated with high honors in 1863.
During his college course he had become well acquainted with the management of the
public schools and the methods of instruction, and immediately on graduating began his
work of teaching. He taught Latin and English in a private French school in Boston till
April, 1864, when he was appointed, at the age of twenty-one, principal of the Reading High
School. After remaining at Reading nine months, he was chosen principal of the Plymouth
High School as successor to A. P. Stone. He taught nearly three years at Plymouth, and in
July, 1867, came to Somerville to the position of principal of the High School. He has had
thirty-two graduating classes and 1,500 graduates, of whom over 400 have completed a course
preparatory to college. In 1872 he married Ida F., daughter of William and .Sarah E. L.
(Berry) Paul, and has one son, Gregory Paul Baxter, a recent graduate of Harvard.
Besides fiUing various offices in other societies, he was secretary of John .\bbot Lodge
and Somerville Chapter of R. A. Masons for nearly twenty years, and he has been associate
corporator and trustee of the Somerville Savings Bank since its incorporation.
Bean, James W., was born in Somerville in 1866. He is the son of Police-officer
George W. Bean, who has been a resident of Somerville for nearly fifty years. After grad
uating from the Luther V. Bell Grammar School in 1880, and the Somerville High School
in 1884, he learned the rudiments of the printer's trade and reporter's art in the office of
the "Somerville Journal." In 1886 he became the Somerville and Cambridge correspondent
of the " Boston Post," and later had market reporting added to his work. He remained in
those capacities for about two years. In 1888 he associated himself with the Boston " Daily
Advertiser,'' where for four years he was assistant commercial editor. While on the " .Adver
tiser " he also held the positions of city editor of the Cambridge " Chronicle " for three years
and city editor of the Cambridge "Press " for one year. In 1891 he formed a copartnership
with Mr. C. Burnside Seagrave, of Cambridge, under the title of the Cambridge Chronicle
Company, and purchased the "Chronicle," which has been conducted by the company ever
since. The " Chronicle " is a leading weekly newspaper in Middlesex County, that height
having been reached under the present management. Besides publishing the paper, the

James W. Bean.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 493
concern does a first-class job printing business. In 1891 and 1892 Mr. Bean served in the
Common Council, and is undoubtedly the youngest man ever elected to that body. Mr.
Bean is married, has one child, and resides at Xo. 40 Columbus avenue.
Beekman, Rev. Garret, is a native of New Jersey, in which state he lived until early
manhood. His educational advantages up to the age of sixteen A\ere few. At this point he
began a systematic course of reading and study, and under the direction of private teachers
prepared himself for what soon became his life-work. In 1867 he entered the Theological
School of Boston University, from which he graduated in 1870. In April, 1868, he
organized what is now known as the Flint-street M. E. Church of Somerville. He was its first
pastor, and served it for two years. In April, 1870, he joined the New England Conference
on trial, and was admitted to full membership in 1872. His first charge after joining the
conference was at Byfield, Mass., which he served for the full term of three years. His sub
sequent appointments were Lawrence, Mass., Lynn, Danvers, Worcester, .Southbridge, Ros-
lindale, Boston, Chicopee Falls, Westboro, and now West Somerville. During this period
he organized the church at Middleton, Mass., and that at West Roxbury. The Parker-
street Church of Lawrence, Mass., was built largely through his personal endeavors. On
other charges churches have been enlarged and beautified, and oppressive debts paid princi
pally through his instrumentality, and in some of the churches he has served there have
been sweeping revivals under his leadership; this is the third year of his pastorate in West
.Somerville, where he ministers to a strong and growing church.
Belknap, Austin, was born in Westboro, July 18, 181 9, the son of John and Ruth
(Fay) Belknap, of that town. His education was obtained in the district school of his
native town, and at the Worcester Manual Labor High School, from which he was graduated
as a civil engineer. After some experience in railroad construction, he came to Boston in
1843, ^"^ entered the general produce and commission business, in which he has remained
until the present time. Mr. Belknap came to Somerville in 1853. He served the town as
selectman in 1869, 1870 and 1871, and the city as member of the School Committee in 1862,
1863 and 1864. He was a trustee of the Public Library in 1873 and 1874, and was mayor in
1876 and 1877. Mr. Belknap is a member of the John Abbot Lodge, F. .\. A. M.; Somer
ville Chapter, R. A. M.; and De Molay Commandery, K. T. Mr. Belknap married Miss
Jane P., daughter of Holloway and Frances (Read) Brigham, of Westboro.
Bell, Luther V., M. D., LL. D., was born in Chester, N. H., December 20, iSo6.
He was graduated from Bowdoin College before he had finished his seventeenth year. He
received his medical degree from the Hanover Medical School. He early distinguished
himself in the practice of his profession, particularly in surgery and in the treatment of the
insane. In January, 1837, he entered upon his duties as superintendent of the McLean
.\sylum for the Insane, and for twenty years conducted the institution with rare ability and
success. He was everywhere acknowledged as an authority on all questions connected with
his profession. He was always interested in whatever affected the welfare of Somerville,
and was chairman of the School Board from 1843 'o 1847. In 1850 he was a member of
the Executive Council, in 1852 a candidate for Congress, and in 1856 for the office of Gov
ernor. In 1856, in consequence of faihng health, he retired from the McLean Asylum, and
thenceforth resided in Charlestown. In 1861, animated by an intense love of country,
notwithstanding his feeble health, he offered his services to the State, and was commissioned
as surgeon of the nth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers. He engaged immediately in
active service, being soon promoted to the post of Brigade Surgeon and finally to that of
Division Surgeon. As a result of exposure and the rigors of the service, after a brief illness,
he died February 11, 1862.
By vote of the School Board on March i, 1862, the primary school on Cherry street
was named the L. \'. Bell School in his memory. In 1867 this school was closed, and in 1874
the school on Vinal avenue was named the Luther V. Bell School in his honor.

m

00

f-

z
z

CQ

< z

c
T3

Qi

SOMERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT. 495
Bennett, Clark, was Ijorn in Londonderry, XX.., November 3, 1810. His ancestors
were among the early settlers of Groton, Mass. His grandfather, David, early joined the
Continental Army, and served in the siege of Boston. Mr. Bennett was the eldest son of
nine children. When he was twenty-one years old he settled in Somerville, then Charlestown,
where for twenty-five years he successfully carried on the brick business, then a leading
industry of the town. Later he followed the insurance business.
Mr. Bennett's actions on all public matters requiring his attention were controlled by a
conscientious desire to do right, as well as a full knowledge of the requirements, present and
future, of our growing city. The abatement of the Miller's River nuisance, the inauguration
of an excellent sewerage system, more especially for West Somerville, the widening and
grading of Somerville avenue, and the construction of the public park, all bear witness to
his unremitting efforts to place Somerville on a par with her sister cities. The record of Mr.
Bennett's official service includes eleven years on the School Committee, a part of the time
its chairman, the town treasurership, and three years' service in the Board of Aldermen.
Mr. Bennett died January 6, 1882. The Bennett School was named in his honor by vote of
the School Board, April 8, 1868.
Bennett, Dana W., son of Clark Bennett, was born in Somerville, February 28, 1859.
He received his education in the Somerville schools, from which he graduated with great
credit. He is now engaged in the insurance business at 82 Water street, Boston, and rep
resents for that city and Massachusetts large fire and accident insurance corporations.
He was a member of the city government for five years, serving three years in the Common
Council, and retiring from the Board of Aldermen in 1887 after two years' service. Mr.
Bennett is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M. He resides at 41 Putnam street.
Bentley, George William, son of John and Caroline Bentley, was born September 14,
1859, at Sutton-Coldfield, England. Coming to America in 1881, he settled in Massachusetts
in the year 1882. In 1883 he entered upon the line of business in which he is now engaged.
In 1892 the "George William Bentley Company" was incorporated under the laws of
Massachusetts, for the purpose of transacting business as manufacturers' agents, and Mr.
Bentley is in charge of the business. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. .K. A. M., of
Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, and of De Molay Commandery of Knights Templar; also of
Unity Council, Royal .\rcanum. For the greater part of the time since coming to Massa
chusetts he has resided in Boston and Somerville, being at present located at the handsome
residence, No. 19 Adams street. Winter Hill. He was married to Miss Emma J. Myers of
New York City, and they have three children.
Berry, William H., son of Robert Berry and Maria (MacMahon) Berry, was born
March 25, 1855, in New Jersey. His father died while William was a child in New-
York, after which event his mother moved with the family to Lexington, Mass., where he
remained until he was twelve years of age. The family removed to Somerville about 1867.
He was educated in the public schools of Lexington and Somerville, and in a commercial
college in Boston. He was employed for three years in the wholesale department of R. H.
\\'hite's store, and at the age of eighteen commenced learning the mason's trade with John
W. Leighton of Boston. He was engaged in that trade in California for three and one-half
years from 1874. He was engaged in the hacking and carriage business at 14 to 20 Custom
House street, Boston, for four years, and in May, 1889, purchased the property which is
known as the Custom House .Stables, where he puts up from one hundred to two hundred
horses daily.
Mr. Berry has also considerable real estate in Somerville and Winthrop. He served
in the Common Council of Somerville in 1894-95, ^"^ °" '^^ Board of Aldermen of 1896.
He is a member of Mt. Sinai Lodge, I. O. O. F., North Cambridge, and the Somerville
Encampment; also of St. John's Lodge, F. A. A. M., of Boston, Somerville Royal Arch

Edward Backus.

¦^¦t« •¦ -

¦>ip>""'

Hira.m R. Bishop.

0' ,5

J. Albion Briggs.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 499
Chapter, Orient Council, and De Molay Commandery. He was married in 18S1, and has
three children. He resides at 39 Cherry street.
Bingham, Norman Williams, was born in Derby, Vt, May 19, 1829, and educated in
the public schools and in the academies at Derby and .St. Johnsbury, Vt. He studied law at
Irasburgh, and in 1855 was appointed Clerk of Orleans County Court, and thus became
ex officio Clerk of the Supreme Court and the Court of Chancery as well. During the war
for the Union he held several important places of trust, both State and national, and his
services were of great value to the country. In 1866 he was made special agent for the
United States Treasury Department, and three years later was placed in charge of the cus
toms revenue district of New England, comprising thirty-two collection districts. He held
this important position until 1885, and discharged its arduous and exacting duties with great
ability and fearless independence. His experience and influence led to the modification and
improvement of the customs laws, and to a marked increase in the efficiency of that depart
ment of public service. Mr. Bingham removed to Somerville in 1869, and has always been
influential in furthering the interests of the city. He was elected to the School Board in
1880, and served without interruption for fifteen years. His labors in connection with
schools have been marked by a discriminating regard for their interests and by constant
efibrt to secure their advancement. The school on Lowell street, erected in 1886 and en
larged in 1894, was named the Bingham School in perpetuation of his name and memory.
Binney, Martin, second son of Barnabas and Jane (Binney) Binney, was born at
East Cambridge, Mass., February 24, 183 1. He comes of Old Colony stock, which dates
back to 1635, in which year Capt. John Binne)', the ancestor of the family in America came
from England and settled in Hull, Mass. Mr. Binney passed his earlier days at East Cam
bridge, and received his education in the Cambridge schools. .At the age of seventeen he
was engaged in the clothing business, and subsequently was bookkeeper with How tS: Leeds
in Boston, and after that entered the real estate and insurance business. Since the age of
nineteen he has been connected with the militia of this State, he having joined the old Bos
ton Light Infantry and the Fusileers at that period.
In i860 he joined the Somerville Light Infantry, Capt. Francis Tufts, and in April,
1861, was one of the first to enlist in this company (Co. I, 5th Mass. Vols.) for three months'
service, during which he participated in the battle of Bull Run, July 21, 1861. He was
honorably discharged, August i, 1861, and in October following was commissioned second
lieutenant in the loth Maine Volunteers. He was detached early in 1862, and appointed assis
tant adjutant-general upon the staff' of Col. Dixon S. Miles, in which position he took part in
several skirmishes and in the siege of Harper's Ferry in June, 1862, after which he was com
plimented in general orders for "gallant and meritorious services in action.'' He was in
this siege promoted first lieutenant, had his horse shot under him and was himself badly
injured. At the surrender of Harper's Ferry to the Confederate general, A. P. Hill, Lieut.
Binney was with the other troops a paroled prisoner of war, and remained such until Jan
uary I, 1863, at which date he was exchanged. He immediately reported to Maj.-Gen.
John E. Wool, commanding the Departmeat of the East, headquarters in New York City,
where he remained until June, 1863. Again enlisting he was at once (March 18, 1864)
commissioned first lieutenant, and assigned to Co. B, 28th Mass. Vols. (Faugh-a-Ballaghs), and
soon after was appointed upon the staff of Gen. Thomas Smythe of the Irish Brigade, ist
div., 2d (Hancock) corps. In May, 1864, he was promoted to captain in that regiment, and
in July was appointed personal aide-de-camp to Maj.-Gen. Frank C. Barlow, commanding
the 1st Div., 2d corps, and was retained in the same position by Maj.-Gen. Nelson A. Miles,
who succeeded Gen. Barlow, until August 25, 1864, on which date, at the battle of Reams'
Station, his horse was killed beneath him, and he was wounded in the leg and received
other injuries which incapacitated him from further service in the war, and he was honor-

500 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
ably discharged December 19, 1864. In his army service Capt. Binney participated in
upwards of twenty-five battles and engagements, and had the reputation of being a most
competent, daring and intrepid officer and soldier. After the close of the war he w as rec
ommended by Maj. -Gens. Hancock, F. C. Barlow and Nelson A. Miles for a commission in
the regular army.
Since the war Capt. Binney has done a large amount of ornamental pen-work, for which
he is celebrated, and was for some time employed by Aaron Sargent, late city treasurer, to
write the bonds issued by the city, they having been at that time made with the pen. He
has also been employed as an accountant in clearing up complicated accounts. He was in
the Common Council in 1881 and 1882, was an active member for nearly twelve years of
the National Lancers, Boston, and is now an honorary member of that body; is a member
(and Past Commander) of the W. C. Kinsley Post, G. A. R.; of the Damon Lodge, K. P.,
Washington, D. C. ; .Antietam Command, Union Veterans' Union; and the Keystone Lodge,
A. F. and A. M., of St. Louis, Mo. He is also a life member of the Lancers' Veteran Chari
table Association. He resides at 9 Linden Place.
Bishop, Hiram R., was born in Stanstead, P. Q., Canada, in 1830, and his early life
was passed in that town. After completing his education, he taught school three years
in Stanstead, and then came to East Cambridge, where he entered the employ of Elijah
Space, ladder manufacturer, in which position he remained seven years. He then removed
to Somerville, purchased a tract of land on Broadway, where he built a ladder factory, and
began the business of manufacturing and continued in it until his death, which occurred Feb
ruary 12, 1888. Mr. Bishop was a member of the first City Council of Somerville and a
member of the Flint-street Methodist Church. He was a man of unblemished reputation,
and was much esteemed in both public and private life.
Bowman, Selwyn Z., was born in Charlestown, May 11, 1840, the son of Zadock
and Rosetta (Cram) Bowman, of that place. His early education was obtained in the public
schools and high school of Charlestown, whence he passed to Harvard College, where he
was graduated A. B. in i860 and LL. B. in 1863. He was admitted lo the .Suffolk bar in
1863, and opened a law office in Boston, where he has ever since remained. Mr. Bowman
came to Somerville in 1856. He has served the city as city solicitor in 1872, 1873, and for
the last eight years. He represented the city in the Legislatures of 1870, 187 1 and 1875; was
in the Senate of 1876 and 1877; and represented the fifth congressional district in the 46th and
47th Congresses in 1878-81. Mr. Bowman is a P. M. of John Abbot Lodge, and a member
of Soley Lodge, F. A. .V. M.; a member of Somerville Chapter, R. A. M; the Central and
Middlesex Clubs. Mr. Bowman married Miss Martha E., daughter of Bowen E. and Sarah
.v. (Mead) Tufts, of Lexington. They reside on Broadway.
Brainard, Charles E., was born at Killingly, Conn., September 14, 1862, the son of
James S. and Lucy A. (Chase) Brainard. He graduated from the Danielsonville High
School, in the class of 1882, and for the first year thereafter taught at North Killingly, the
home of William T. Harris, U. S. Commissioner of Education. For two years he was prin
cipal of the grammar school at DayviUe, Connecticut, and for three years principal of the
fifth district school at Putnam, in the same State. He then came to Massachusetts and was
principal at Wellesley for one year.
That Mr. Brainard was destined to be a leader in school work was evident to the school
authorities of Somerville, when, in 1889, they elected him'principal of the Edgerly School.
The building was an eight-room one at the time, and he was the first male principal the
school had ever had. Mr. Brainard brought to his new place an impetus such as few schools
have ever enjoyed. Llis inspiration to make success instant and certain was soon caught up
by his able corps of teachers and pupils, and the seven years in which he has held his position
have been those of prosperity, earnestness, fidelity, and void of adverse criticism so far as he

SO.MERVILLE. P.4ST .4ND PRESENT. 501
is concerned. He is always ready to add the newest ideas to his work, and is as indefatigable
as he is able.
Mr. Brainard was president of the Somerville Teachers' Association for 1894-5, ^""^ ^^
now local secretary of the Teachers' Annuity Guild. He is a member of the Massachusetts
Schoolmasters' Club, besides various other teachers' organizations. He is also a member of
Excelsior Council, Royal Arcanum.
Mr. Brainard's mind has fine business bent, and it has led him to employ his summer
vacation time in conducting the Wesley House at Cottage City, Martha's Vineyard. Com
mencing at the lowest round thirteen years ago, first as waiter, he made every department a
thorough study, and six years ago became sole proprietor. The many patrons who have vis
ited ^him can attest to his ability and geniality, it being his one endeavor to please all and
give offense to none. In that way he has, in addition to the fine location of the house,
made it second to none at Cottage City. Mr. Brainard married Enola C, daughter of Capt.
Richard and Carrie Cunningham, at Gloucester, Mass., December 29, 1890.
Brastow, George 0., was born in Wrentham, September 8, 1811. He came to
Charlestown (Somerville) in 1838, and located on Spring Hill; was a large owner of real
estate, and built many houses in the town. He was very prominent in the division of the
town in 1842, and was chosen selectman in 1845 ^^^ again in 1867. He served on the
school committee from 1847 to 1862; represented Somerville in the House in 1849, 1^5°)
i85i,and 1862; was a member of the .Senate in 1854, and was again elected in 1866, serving
four years, the last two as president. He went to the war as captain of the .Somerville
Company in 1862, and was afterward paymaster in the army. Mr. Brastow was chosen first
mayor of Somerville in 1871; was re-elected in 1872; was a member of the Governor's
Council in 1874, 1875, and 1876, and was one of the founders of the Middlesex and .Somer
ville horse railroads, also of Post 139. He died at Canandaigua, N. Y., November 20, 1878.
Briggs, J. Albion, was born in Westbrook, Me., December 2, 1852, the son of
Albion K. P. and Caroline C. (Chase) Briggs. When quite young his parents moved to
Woburn, Mass., and after a two years' residence there his father died, and the family moved
to Portland, Me., where he attended the public schools. When twelve years of age he
came to Boston, and was a graduate of the Mayhew School. He returned to Portland and
entered the law office of Hon. W. H. Clifford. Mr. Briggs was afterward engaged in the
shipping business in Portland, going from there to Cuba, continuing in the same business
and residing in Matanzas. Returning to Massachusetts, he accepted a position as assistant
superintendent of the Westboro Reform School, leaving there to accept a similar position
in Philadelphia, where he remained five years. He came to Somerville in 1885, and asso
ciated himself with C. C. Davis, under the firm name of Davis and Briggs, in the real estate
and insurance business in Union square. Since June, 1890, the business has been con
ducted by Mr. Briggs under the same firm name. He has the care of many large estates.
He is the Supreme Governor of the United Order of Pilgrim Fathers; member of Wonoha-
quaham Tribe, I. O. R. M.; Somerville Lodge, A. O. U. W. ; Central Club, Sons of Maine,
Middlesex Club ; was chairman of Ward 2 Republican City Committee, three years. He
resides on Vinal avenue.
Brigham, William E., editor and manager of the Somerville " Citizen " since Christmas,
1894, and to whose personal energy the marked increase in the growth of the " Citizen " and
the organization of the new company, in consequence, are due, was born in Boston, Feb
ruary 16, 1865, but since the age of three and one-half years has lived at 4 Hillside avenue,
East Somerville. He graduated from the Prescott Grammar School in 1880 and from the
Somerville High School in 1884, making a special success of the study of literature and
kindred branches. He was one of the founders and the original editor of the Somerville
High School "Radiator," established in December, 1882, and which he conducted until his

502 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
graduation. After a summer term as clerk at the popular Shirley House, Ocean Spray,
Winthrop, Mr. Brigham went upon the Boston "Globe'" as a reporter. In due time he was
promoted to an editorial position, and was successively assistant night editor, assistant day
editor, editor of Sunday correspondence — a very responsible place and requiring the nicest
judgment, and v/hich he held four years — and assistant to the assistant managing editor.
Mr. Brigham resigned in July, 1891, to become managing editor of the Lynn "Daily Press,"
and resigned from that paper in October, 1893, to become assistant manager of the Keeley
Institutes of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut, which office he held when called
to take charge of the " Citizen," December 22, 1894. During 1893 ^^d 1894 he lived in
Lynn, a city to which he is warmly attached.
Mr. Brigham is a charter member of the Boston Press Club, and for several years was
a director of it and one of its vice-presidents, and is specially rememberedfor his briUiant
Avork in arranging its popular series of receptions to noted personages, which he originated,
beginning with the lamented Frank Mayo, and including such men as P. T. Barnum, George
Kennan, Wilson Barrett, Chas. Wyndham, and other famous actors and writers. Mr. Brig
ham is a member of the Central Club, has been a member of the Webcowit Club of Somer
ville, the select Park Club of Lynn, and has been for seven years a member of Soley Lodge,
A. F. and A. M., and of Somerville Council, 103, Home Circle. He was manager of the
great Brigham family reunion, which took place in Odd Fellows' Hall, Boston, in October,
1895, was the first president of the Brigham Club of Boston, and is president of the
national Brigham Family Association, he having been elected to that position in October,
1896, for a term of three years. Mr. Brigham is a widower, having buried a wife and
two children. Bruce, George A., was born at Mount Vernon, N. H., November 19, 1839, the son of
Nathaniel and Lucy (Butterfield) Bruce, of that town. He was fitted for college at the
Appleton Academy in his native town, and was graduated at Dartmouth College in 1861.
He enlisted in the Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, and served as first lieutenant,
aide, judge advocate, and assistant adjutant-general. He was mustered out July 3, 1865,
and brevetted lieutenant-colonel. He studied law in Lowell, and was admitted to the bar in
1866, and opened his office in Boston, where he has ever since remained. Mr. Bruce was
a member of the New Hampshire Legislature in 1866, and of the Senate of Massachusetts
in 1882, 1883 and 1884, being president of the Senate the last year. He came to Somerville
in 1874, and served the city as mayor in 1877, 1880 and 1881. Mr. Bruce married Miss
Clara M., daughter of Joseph F. and Sarah (Longley) Hall, of Groton. They reside on
Highland avenue.
Burlen, Lorenzo Wickliffe, was born in Boston, October 4, 1850. His parents, Moses
and Sarah Ann Burlen (nee Dickinson), and brothers M. Prescott, William Henry and
Melancthon are all living, an only sister, Sarah .Syrene, having died. Mr. Burlen was edu
cated in the public schools of Boston, having had for teacher, in the Mayhew School, Quincy
E. Dickerman of our city, to whom he feels greatly indebted for physical as well as mental
instruction. After two years of study in the English high school in 1866, he went to Eayr's
private school on .Somerset street, and became one of the most active members of the base
ball nine of that school, and participated in other athletic sports of those days, rowing, etc.
In 1867 he was employed in the office of "The Narragansett S.S. Co." in the Old State
House, now " Fall River Line." In April, i858, he was appointed as messenger of the Na
tional Bank of the Republic, under the late David Snow, president, and Charles A. Vialle
(now president), cashier. In February, 1872, he was appointed discount clerk of the Co
lumbian National Bank, the duties of which he faithfully performed for fifteen years until
October i, 1887, when he was elected cashier of the bank, which position he now holds.
Mr. Burlen is one of the best known men on State street and in the banking circles, having

LORENZO W. Burlen.

^-%\

Charles S. Butters.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 505
attended to the business of the banks with which he has been associated, at the Boston
Clearing House, daily almost continuously for nearly thirty years. He was elected pres
ident of the Bank Officers' Association of Boston with a present membership of 619, at
the annual meeting of the association in May, 1896. In October, 1850, Mr. Burlen was
married to Mary Helen, daughter of William and Jane Kerr (latter now deceased), and has
two sons living, Lorenzo Wickliffe, Jr., and William Kerr. He has recently purchased a
residence in Brookline.
Burns, Mark F., son of Charles A. and Elizabeth (Hutchinson) Burns, was born in
Milford, X. H., May 24, 1841. He came of good old Xew England stock, and his parents
were among the earliest and most active of the anti-slavery agitators and always leaders in
every good cause. He spent his early life on his father's farm, and obtained his education
in the public schools of his native town and at the Appleton Academy, in Mount Vernon,
N. H. He taught school in Xew Jersey for three years, and one year in Milford and adjoin
ing towns. In 1866 he located in Charlestown, Mass., and engaged in the milk busi
ness. In a few years he became one of the largest dealers in the State, carrying on
both a wholesale and retail business, which he has continued until the present time, with the
assistance of his sons, who now attend to the details of the business. Since 1873 Mr.
Burns has resided in Somerville, with his business headquarters still in Charlestown. He has
had large experience in municipal affairs, having been a member of the Somerville Common
Council in i88o-8i, the latter year its president; of the Board of Aldermen in 1882-83;
trustee of the Public Library in 1884, and mayor of the city in 1885, 1886, 1887, 1888. He was
the first to suggest the formation of the Mayors' Club of Massachusetts, and was elected its
first secretary, a position which he held for five years, and was then elected its president,
serving the full term. For several years he was president of the Milk Contractors' Associa
tion. He has been a trustee of the Charlestown Five Cents Savings Bank, an institution
having assets to the amount of over $6,000,000, since 1891. In March, 1895, he was elected
its treasurer, and at the annual meeting held in the following June he was promoted to the
office of president. He is also a director in the Monument National Bank, the Charles
town Gas and Electric Co., and the Mutual Protection Fire Insurance Co. Qn X'ovember
17, 1862, Mr. Burns married Elvira Bowers of Dunstable, Mass. By this union they had
four children, who are now living, .Samuel A., Robert, Maud and Paul S. Mrs. Burns died
January 13, 1885, and on April 27, 1892, Mr. Burns married Sarah A. Miles of Somerville.
The Burns School on Cherry street was built in 1886, during his mayoralty, and named in
recognition of his services.
Butler, John Haskell, was born in Middletown, Mass., .Vugust 31, 1841 ; he attended
school in the public schools of Shirley and Groton, and Lawrence Academy in Groton,
Mass., and was graduated from Yale in the class of 1863. He served in the U. S. Navy
during the war. Mr. Butler was admitted to the bar in Middlesex County in October, i868,
from which time he was associated with Mr. William S. Stearns under the firm name of
Stearns & Butler, in the practice of the law, until January i, 1892, when Mr. Stearns retireil
from practice. He has resided in Somerville since 1870, and served twelve years on the
.Somerville School Board. In the years 1880 and i88i he was a member of the House of
Representatives, and in 1884, 18S5 and 1886, a member of the Executive Council for the
Third Councillor District. He is warmly interested in charitable and fraternal organizations,
and has held positions of honor and responsibility in many of them.
Butters, Charles S., son of Charles and Olive S. (Brown) Butters, was born in Bur
lington, Mass. He attended the district school of his native town, receiving only the
limited education offered in those days, until he was twelve years old, when he worked on
the farm, attending school the winter term of three months. At the age of nineteen he
left home and accepted a position in a provision store on Main street, in Charlestown,

S06 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Mass. Here he remained two years, and then went to East Cambridge, following the same
occupation. By thrift and perseverence he soon acquired an interest in the business,
staying there about four years; he then sold his interest and bought a provision route in
Boston, which he carried on sixteen years. In January, 1883, he opened a provision store
in Union square, this tity, and in 1887 still further increased his business by opening
another at the corner of Elm and Porter streets; both these establishments he is operating
at the present time. In 1872 he bought a home in Somerville, where he has since lived.
Mr. Butters is a member of the I. O. O. F., the Knights of Honor, the X'ew England
Order of Protection, United Order of Workmen, ¥. A. A. M., and Knights Templar. He
has served the city as a member of the Council two years, and has been treasurer of the
Board of Stewards of the First M. E. Church of Somerville for the past sixteen years. He
married, October 3, 1871, Miss Eunice A. .Stahl of Waldoboro, Me. They have had six
children, five of whom are living. His residence is at 19 Church street.
Butters, Rev. George Shaw, was born at Lowell, Mass., where for many years his
father was a prominent business man. Mr. Butters prepared for Harvard College at the
Lowell High School, and was the valedictorian of his class. He entered Boston University in
1874, and received his A. B. in 1878. After graduation he began to prepare himself to teach
Greek, and went to the Andover Theological Seminary to thoroughly fit himself for college
work. In the midst of the second year of this preparation the ministry became so attractive,
he decided that his w ork was to be in the ministry. He then went to the Methodist Theolo
gical School in Boston, and completed his course in 1881.
He joined the New England Conference, and had Barre, Mass., for his first pastorate.
After three successful years he became a popular preacher at Jamaica Plain. He then went
to Newtonville, where he was greatly beloved, and thence to Fitchburg, where he com
pleted the most successful term of his ministry. His fifteen years in the X^ew England Con
ference have been marked by unusual success on all lines of church work. He is a frequent
contributor for the press, and in the religious papers of his own and other denominations
his name is often seen. As a story-writer he has also won some reputation.
Rev. Mr. Butters is one of the most active Methodist ministers in young people's work,
and succeeded Rev. W. I. Haven in the presidency of the New England Epworth League.
He is much in demand as a speaker and lecturer for the various gatherings of the Epworth
League and Christian Endeavor, and is remarkably well adapted to work of this kind. His
congregations are characterized by the large attendance of young men, and very few ministers
can surpass him in popularity with this interesting class.
Mr. Butters is thirty-nine years of age, and has a wife and two children. Mrs. Butters
is remarkably well fitted for the exacting duties of a pastor's wife, and has been one of the
most prominent factors in her husband's success. She was educated in the Boston schools,
and is a woman of refinement and marked social gifts.
Byam, William A., son of Ezekiel and Charlotte (Bateman) Byam of Chelmsford,
Mass., was born in that town July 20, 1820. He passed his boyhood and early manhood at
the homestead, having about three months' schooling, winters, and doing farm work or labor
ing in the factory of the elder Byam (the originator of the match 'Known by that name)
during the rest of the year. He located in Charlestown in 1855, and on January i, 1856, the
firm of Rand and Byam, soap manufacturers, was organized, and it continued the business
uninterruptedly and successfully from that dale to X'ovember i, 1895, when Mr. Rand's interest
was purchased by Mr. Byam's two sons; but the style of the firm remains unchanged. In
business and social circles Mr. Byam enjoys the implicit confidence of all who know him.
Soon after locating in Charlestown he became a member of the Bunker Hill Baptist Church,
and in 1871 was elected deacon, serving in that office until he removed to Somerville in
1891. His interest and membership in that body are still continued. March 14, 1841, he

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 507
was married to Mercy M. Parker of Chelmsford, Mass., h-j whom he had four sons and one
daughter. Three of the sons are now living. The present Mrs. Byam was Mrs. Emma C.
Pierce of Charlestown, to whom he was united June 6, 1870. After a residence of thirty-
three years in Charlestown, Mr. Byam purchased the handsome residence at 117 Pearl
street, where he now lives.
Carpenter, Allen F., was born in Waterford, Vt., February 28, 1842. He was educated
in the common schools of that town and in St. Johnsbury Academy. In 1869 he embarked
in the grocery business in this city, and has continued in it very successfully until the present
time. He enlisted in Company H, I2th Vermont Volunteers, and was mustered into the service
in October, 1862; he served in the Army of the Potomac, and was mustered out in July, 1863.
Mr. Carpenter was a member of the Common Council in 1889, and of the Board of .Udermen
in 1890 and 1891. He was a representative to the General Court in 1893-4. He is a member
of Charity Lodge, F. .\.A.M.; Coeur de Lion Commandery, K.T.; Oasis Lodge, I. 0.0. F.;
Willard C. Kinsley Post, G. A. R.; the I. O. R. M., and the Good Fellows. He is also a
member of the Boston Chamber of Commerce, is president of the Boston Retail Grocers'
Association, treasurer of the Xew England Grocers' Publishing Co., director of the Somerville
National Bank and of the Sprague and Hathaway Co. He is also chairman of the Somerville
Board of Health.
Carr, Martin W., was born at Easton, Mass., March 9, 1829, the son of Caleb and
Chloe (Parker) Carr, of that place. He is a chrect descendant of Robert Carr, Governor of
Rhode Island in 1692. His education was obtained in the district school and the Adelphian
Academy at X'^orth Bridgewater. He began his business life by learning the manufacture of
shovels with the Ames Company at Xorth Easton. Thence he went to Attleboro, where he
acquired a thorough knowledge of the art of manufacturing jewelry.* In 1856 he went into
business for himself at Attleboro. Five years afterward he was offered a foremanship at the
U. S. Armory at Springfield, which he accepted, and remained there till 1864, when he came
to Boston and re-entered the jewelry business, in which he still continues. Mr. Carr came
to Somerville in 1864, and served the city two years as a member of the Council and two
years as alderman, the last year of that service being president of the board. He also was
a member of the Water Board one year, and has been a member of the School Committee
since 1884. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. .-V. M. ; Somerville Chapter, R. .\.;
Cceur de Lion Commandery, K. T.; the Central and Mystic Valley Clubs; the Massachusetts
Charitable Mechanic Association; and Excelsior Council, Royal Arcanum. !Mr. Carr married
Miss Emily Brackett, daughter of Joseph G. and Lucy (Butterfield) Brackett, of Quincy.
They reside on Craigie street.
Carvill, Alphonso Holland, M. D., son of Sen all and Tamar (Higgins) Carvill, was
born in Leuiston, Me., Feb. 4, 1843. He is of Enghsh and .Scotch descent; his paternal grand
father served in the Revolutionary \Var, and his father in the War of 181 2. He was reared on
a farm, attending school, sometimes private school, in the autumn and spring till eighteen years
of age. From 1858 to 1861 he was for several terms at the Maine State Seminary. In 1861
he entered the Edward Little Institute at Auburn, Me., where he was fitted for college. He
graduated from Tufts in 1866, taking the degree of A. M. in 1869, in which year he was
graduated from the Harvard Medical School. Studied for a time inX'^ew York, Philadelphia
and Chicago, and began practice, 1869, in Minnesota, removing to Somerville in May, 1873.
He was for two years city physician of .Somerville, and was one of the leaders in the establish
ment of the hospital, — being a member of the building committee and on the board of
trustees from the beginning, as well as member of the medical board and hospital staff. He is
a member of the American Institute of Homoeopathy, Mass. Homceopathic Medical Society,
Boston Homceopathic Medical Society, of Mass. Surgical and Gynecological Society. He
was for twelve years a member of Somerville School Board, and is greatly interested in the

S08 SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST A.ND PRESENT.
temperance cause and in educational matters, and does his part in every worthy enterprise.
August iS, i86<^, he married Miss Mi ma S. Gray, daughter of John and Elizabeth (.Swanson)
Gray of Cambridge. His children are Sewall Albert and Lizzie Maud Carvill.
Chamberlin, Mrs. Harriet A., was born in the Pine Tree State in 1837. She has re
sided in Massachusetts nearly forty years and in Somerville since 1862. Her husband,
Russell T. Chamberlin, enlisted in 1862 from Somerville in Co. B, 5th Regiment, and is a
member of Willard C. Kinsley Post, G. A. R. Mrs. t'hamberlin has always been active in relig
ious work, and is a member of the Park-avenue M. E. Church. .She assisted in organizing the
Woman's Auxiliary to the Y. M. C. A., and is one of its leading members. .She has been
engaged in temperance work in Somerville for thirty-five years, and is a Past Worthy Patriarch
of Clarendon Division, .Sons of Temperance. She has been a constant worker in the W. C.
T. U. since its organization, and was several times elected a delegate to its State Conventions.
.Mrs. Chamberlin assisted in organizing and was the second president of the Daughters of
Maine. She is a member of the Ladies' Aid Association of the Soldiers' Home in Massa
chusetts, and has been interested in the work for ten years. In 1887 she joined Willard C.
Kinsley Relief Corps, and was its president in 1891 and 1892. A gain in membership
and interest was the result of her leadership. .She has served as a representative in several
department conventions, and visited various parts of the State on official work. She has
made several trips to the South and West as a delegate from the Department of Massachu
setts to the National Convention of the W. R. C. She is also interested in the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, of which her husband is a member. Her name is on the charter of
Ramona Lodge, Daughters of Rebekah, and she was its first (lady) Noble Grand. She is a
member of the Helping Hand Society for the Aid of the Working Girls' Home in Boston.
When the Ladies' Aid Association was formed to assist the Somerville Hospital, she became
an active member, and was its president two years. She is earnest in all her work, and has a
zealous interest in the welfare of others. Mr. and Mrs. Chamberlin have one daughter, who,
since her marriage, has resided in Washington, D. C.
Chandler, Leonard B., was born in Princeton, Mass., August 29, 1851 ; he attended
the schools of that town until 1870, working on the farm in the meanwhile. At the age of
nineteen he located in Charlestown, and soon bought a milk route in Boston, which he still
owns. In 1873 he moved to Jaques street in this city, where he continues to reside. Mr.
Chandler is a member of Cceur de Lion Commandery, K. T. ; Somerville Royal Arch Chapter,
R. A. M,; John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Highland Chapter of the Eastern Star, Winter
Hill Encampment, Erminie Lodge, Daughters of Rebekah; and is a Past Grand of Paul
Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F. He is a member of the A. O. U. W. and the N. E. O. P. Mr.
Chandler was two years in the Common Council, two years in the Board of Aldermen, and
was elected a member of the General Court in November, 1896.
Chase, Daniel E., senoir partner and founder of the firm of Daniel E. Chase and
Company, was born at Warner, N. IT., on the 31st of October, 1829, and is one of the
well-known family descended from Aquila Chase, a family which has included among its
more prominent members such men as Salmon P. Chase, Chief Justice of the United States,
and .Senator from and Governor of Ohio, Bishop Chase of New Hampshire, Judge Horace
Chase of Merrimack County, and other eminent men who have figured in our national history
for several generations. Mr. Chase came to Boston from New Llampshire in 1850, and
entered the firm of Ezra Trull and Company in 1857. Shortly after the death of Mr. Trull
in 1864 a new firm was formed under the style of Chase and Trull, the senior partner being
the late Colonel Ezra J. Trull, who was widely known in military and business circles
throughout the .State. The firm of Chase and Trull were at one time the largest distillers of
X'ew England rum in the world. Mr. Chase was Alderman from Ward 2 in the first City Govern
ment of .Somerville, and has served on the School Board. In 1863 he connected himself

SO.MERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT. 5 09
with the Jfasonic fraternity, and rising quickly to prominence in that organization, before
1873 had been elected to fill the highest offices in lodge, chapter and commandery, and is
to-day one of the best informed Masons in Massachusetts. Mr. Chase was the first High
Priest of the Somerville Chapter, Royal Arch Masons.
Cheney, Frederick E., son of Edward W. and Lizzie M. (Adams) Cheney, was born
in X'ashua, N. H., October I, 1855. He was educated in the schools of Wilton, N. H,,
graduating from the high school of that town. After leaving school he entered the employ
of David Whiting & Sons, remaining about eleven years. He then came to Somerville, and
in 1880 established himself in the grocery business at the corner of Marshall and Pearl streets.
He subsecjuently moved to his present spacious store in Odd Fellows' Building, where he
carries on a large and lucrative business, his establishment being well known as one of the
most reliable in the city. Mr. Cheney was married to Miss Fannie B. Clark, February 23,
1885. They have one child and have lost two. He is a member of Paul Revere Lodge,
I. O. O. F., of which he is a Past Noble Grand ; Unity Council, Royal Arcanum; Soley Lodge,
F. A. A. M.; and has for six years been a collector in the Arcanum.
Clark, Elijah C, son of Leonard and Harriet (Clement) Clark, was born at East
Corinth, Me., August 23, 1845. He was educated in the district schools, at the East
Corinth Academy, and at Bryant and Stratton's College. Bangor, Me. He enlisted in the
1st Maine Heavy Artillery in 1863, and served until the close of the war. He was seriously
wounded at Petersburg, June 18, 1864, was at the capture of RichmoncJ and Petersburg, and
at the surrender of Lee's army, .April 9, 1865. He came to Somerville in 1872, and served
the city in the Common Council in 1878 and 1879, and in the Board of Aldermen in 1880,
l88l and 1882. He was representative to the Massachusetts Legislature in 1S83 and 1884,
and has been a trustee of the Public Liljrary since 1889. He is engaged in the wholesale
fruit and produce business in Boston, and is a member of the Boston Fruit and Produce
Exchange ; of the Soley Lodge, F. .A., A. M. ; Somerville R. A. Chapter ; De Molay Com
mandery, K. T. ; Excelsior Council, R. .\. ; the Central Club, and Taylor Club of Boston,
and is president of the Webcowit Club. Mr. Clark married Viola J. Peaslee, daughter of
Daniel and Elizabeth (Holland) Peaslee of Xewton, X'. H. They reside on Rush street.
Clark, Joseph, was born in Windham, N. H., March i, 1798, the son of James and
Mary Clark. He was a veteran of the war of 1812, and was a selectman of Somerville for
five years. Mr. Clark married .Miss Lucy Locke of Charlestown in 1S25, and in 1839 built
the house on Washington street where he lived for forty years. He carried on an extensive
business as a brick manufacturer. He died March 26, 1879.
Clark, J. Foster, was born at Walpole, X^. IL, October 28, 1832. In 1840 his parents
removed to Alabama, Genesee County, N. Y. He was educated at the Cary Collegiate
Institute of Oakfield, X. Y. In 1852 he came to Boston and entered the employ of
Jaazaniah Gross, and came to SomerviUe to reside in 1S54. In i860 he was married to
Martha B. Cutter, youngest daughter of Fitch and Lucy Hathorn Cutter, one of the oldest
families of Somerville. In 1865 he went to Titusville, Pa., and remained there nine years,
engaged in the oil business; he was president of the Titusville Oil Exchange three years.
He was made a Master .Mason in Revere Lodge, Boston, in 1857, was one of the charter
members of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., of Somerville, in 1879, and in 18S1 was elected Wor
shipful Master; in 1864 he became a member of St. .\ndrews Royal Arch Chapter of Boston,
and in 1881 joined De Molay Commandery of Knights Templar of Boston. He is a member
of the Royal Arcanum, Llome Circle, Boston Chamber of Commerce, the Boston Fruit and
Produce Exchange, Hull Yacht Club and Webcowit Club, of which he was the first president.
He is engaged in the wholesale flour and produce business at 80 Commercial street,
Boston. Clarridge, George F., was born in Charlestown, JIass., December 4, 1852, and re-

5IO SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
ceived his education in the public schools of that city. In 1868 he entered the employ of
Dr. IT. L. Bowker & Co., of Boston, where he remained sixteen years learning the busi
ness of manufacturing chemist. On January i, 1885, he formed a coj^artnership with
H. Cleveland Beach of Hebron, Ct., now of Maiden, Mass., for the purpose of manufacturing
soda-water flavors, fruit juices, etc. They opened a factory at 42 India street, Boston, and
three years later occupied the premises 41, 42 and 43 India street. Owing to the rapid
growth of the business, they were soon obliged to secure larger quarters, and are now es-
tabhshed in the five-story building, 52 to 58 Eastern avenue. In June, 1893, ^ corporation
was formed under the laws of the commonwealth, and Mr. Clarridge was elected treasurer,
which office he now holds. Their business extends throughout the United States and
Canada, and into foreign countries.
Mr. Clarridge has had ten )'ears' military experience, joining the Charlestown Cadets,
Company A, Fifth Regiment, M. V. M., in 1870, and in 1878 was elected first lieutenant.
In 1S79 he married a daughter of Andrew Tower of Charlestown, and has since resided in
.Somerville, where he has been actively identified with the Broadway M. E. Church, is also a
member of the Board of Directors of the Y. M. C. A., and for the past two years its
president. Cole, Dr. Anna B. Taylor, was born at Lisbon, N. H. Her parents removed to
Whitefield, N. H., when she was three years of age, and she was educated in the public
schools of that town and at the Salem X'ormal School. After having taught school about
three years, her attention was called to the great opportunities for doing good which the
medical profession affords, and a natural aptitude for the care of the sick led her finally to
the study of medicine at the Boston University Medical School, where she graduated in 1884.
While a student, in spite of delicate health, she frequently served as night nurse, thereby ac
quiring valuable experience for her future work. Dr. Taylor practiced medicine six years in
Charlestown. She moved lo Somerville in 1890. In 1894 she was married to Herbert A.
Cole of Somerville. She is a member of the Massachusetts State Homceopathic Medical
Society, Boston Medical Society, Hahneniannian Club, Surgical and Gynsecological Club, and
of the Heptorean Club of. Somerville.
Cox, Edward, was born in Northampton, England, October 12, 1836, the son of James
and Sarah (Pearson) Cox. His father was a native of Norwich, England, served in the
English army, and fought in the battle of Waterloo. Mr. Cox came to this country when
about eighteen years of age, and resided in Quincy; later he engaged in the boot and shoe
business in Roxbury. In 1857 he moved to Cambridge, entered the real estate business,
and built quite extensively. He came to Somerville in 1870 and operated in the real estate
business. He married in Cambridge, in 1862, Miss Emma A. Crafts, daughter of Samuel
and Elizabeth Crafts of Nottingham, England. He resides on Central street.
Crosby, Cyrus F., son of Captain Michael and Margaret T. (Richardson) Crosby, was
born in Billerica, Mass., Sept. 2, 1822. He attended the public schools of that town, and was
graduated from the Billerica Academy. When very young, being on his way to Boston Mar
ket with his father, he witnessed the burning of the Ursuline Convent. He remembers dis
tinctly seeing the boats running on the Middlesex Canal through his native town on their
way to Boston, where they landed their freight on Canal street; also the first train of cars
running from Lowell to Boston. He moved to Somervflle in 1851. His business was that
of milk-contractor, bringing milk in cars from various towns in New Hampshire and Massa
chusetts. He was a charter member, and assisted in laying the corner-stone of the Franklin-
street Congregational Church. He was many years chairman of the Parish Committee and
superintendent of the Sunday-school. He was a member of the last Board of Selectmen of
Somerville, and from i860 to 1864 was a member of the School Board. He was married in
1 843 to Miss Lois E. Lane of Bedford, Mass. Mr. Crosby resides at 96 Glen street.

\

Edward Cox.

Residence of Edward Cox, 36 Central Street.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 513
Cummings, David, son of .Samuel and Joanna (.\ndrews) Cummings, was born in .Mid
dleton, Mass. His boyhood days were passed in that town and in Wenham, in both wdiich
]ilaceshe attended school and acquired the rudiments of his education. .\t the age of ten years
he took up his residence with his uncle, Mr. Sylvester Cummings in Boxford, and attended
school there in winters and worked on the farm in summers, as most country boys did at that
time. He remained in Boxford about five years, and then went to Danvers, where he worked
at farming in the summers and at shoemaking in the winters. In 1847 Jonas Warren, a
merchant of long standing in Danversport, and one well known in Essex County, offered him
a position in his store which was accepted ; and he continued in it two years, when, in con
sequence of a severe illness, he was obliged to resign. He subsequently began manufactur
ing shoes in a small way for himself, and has continued in the business in company with his
brother and others until the present time, their output having greatly increased and been
for many years ranked among the largest and most popular of goods in their line on the
market. Mr. Cummings is the head of the firm, and it is due largely to his industry and strict
attention to business that the firm occupies its present high position.
Mr. Cummings is president of the Somerville Electric Light Company, a director in the
Cotton and Woolen Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance Co., and one of t'ne trustees of Tufts Col
lege and of Dean Academy at Franklin, Mass. He married Olive Caroline Ross, daughter of
Deacon James and Lovey (Huntress) Ross of Shapleigh, Me. They reside at 8 Union street.
Cummings, John Addison, was born in Nelson, X'. H., January 16, 1838. His early
education was obtained in the common schools of his native town and the Scientific and
Literary Institute in New London, X'. H., where he remained two years, teaching school
during the winter. He then began the study of law, and continued it until the war broke
out, when he was among the first to enlist. He was commissioned a lieutenant in the 6th
New Hampshire Volunteers at the age of twenty-three, and served three years in that regi
ment in the Army of the Potomac and in the West. He was then made major of the 1st
X'ew Hampshire Cavalry, and served with Sheridan until the close of the war. After spend
ing two years at the West, he returned to Boston and entered the printing business in 1867.
He took up his residence in Somerville, and became the publis'ner of the Somerville "Jour
nal" in 1871—72. In 1874 he was elected to the Legislature, and served two years. He
was a member of the Board of Aldermen in 1877 and 1878. In 1881 he was elected maynr,
which office he held for four consecutive. years. His record in this capacity reflects great
credit upon him. He was faithful, courteous and painstaking, at the same time fearless and
justly conservative in municipal affairs. He died January 6, 1887. The Cummings School
was built during his mayoralty, and named for him in 1884.
Cunningham, Thomas, was born jn Groton, JIass., January 3, 1815. He came to
Boston in 1823, and attended the Fort Hfll and Hawkins-street schools until 1828, when his
father died, leaving to his care a mother and five sisters. From that time to the present
year he was always an active worker in whatever occupation he was engaged.
After working in various lines of business, he began to follow the sea in April, 1832,
continuing untfl February, 1857, when he took up his permanent abode in Somerville. He
rose to be captain, and was master of some of the finest ships sailing the ocean.
The last ship in which Captain Cunningham sailed was the "Ocean Express," a cHpper
ship of 2,0.00 tons, and one of the finest that ever sailed out of Boston. The ship was built
at Medford under his personal supervision, in 1854, and cost 898,000. Her first freight bill
was 583,500 for a trip from Chinchilla Island to Liverpool with guano.
Upon quitting the sea he went into business in Boston, and in 1857 built the house he
occupied at the time of his death, on Oak street, in this city. He was elected to the Board
of Selectmen in i860, and served during and after the war. He was very active in the work
of raising money for war purposes, and did a great deal for the relief of the soldiers. When

SH SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
the war broke out he became recruiting officer of the town. He enrolled the town for the
draft in 1863, and from 1862 to 1872 he paid out all the State aid, beside the finances of the
"soldiers' relief fund." He went to the front three times with soldiers' goods, and visited
Washington several times in regard to Somerville's quota.
From 1863 to 1872 he filled the office of town treasurer, and for the succeeding four
years he was a member of the Water Board. For thirteen years he was assessor, and for ten
years he was overseer of the poor.
He was representative in the General Court in 1876 and 1878 under Speaker and after
ward Governor John D. Long. It was in 1877 t''^' ^ ti''^ '^^^ being considered to aid vete
ran soldiers and their families. Some member of the House complained that it was opening
the way for too liberal expenditure in that direction. Captain Cunningham, fired by patriot
ism, and remembering the days of the rebellion, took the floor, and advocated opening the
flood-gates lo assist the veteran, the widow and the fatherless, caused by the war. The cap
tain succeeded in carrying his point, and was warmly congratulated by Speaker Long. It
was during his second year in the House that he secured the registry of deeds building in
East Cambridge. In 1888 he was appointed inspector of milk, and inspector of vinegar in 18S9, holding
both positions until March, 1896, when he retired to private life. Untfl last January he also
held for several years the important office of inspector of animals and provisions.
Captain Cunningham was very prominent in Masonic and other fraternal organizations.
He was a member of Boston Commandery, Knights Templar, John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M ..
and Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, also of Oasis Lodge of Odd Fellows. He was an honor
ary, and formerly an active, member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of
Boston, a member of the National Lancers, and the Somerville Veteran Firemen's Associa
tion, and an honorary member of the Somerville Light Infantry.
His church relations were with the Prospect Hill Congregational Church, where he pro
fessed conversion, and joined the church Easter Sunday, 1890. Till the time of his death
he continued an active member of that church. Many other positions of honor and trust
were held by the captain. For many years previous to his death he was a director in the
Cambridge National Bank. He was also superintendent, treasurer and part owner in the
.Somerville Union Hall Company, which organization owns the large wooden block in Union
square, between Somerville avenue and Washington street.
Captain Cunningham was twice married. His first wife was Maria C. Ingalls of .\n-
dover; his second wife was Annie I., daughter of Rev. Wilson and Jane A. C. Ingalls, of
Kinderhook, N. Y.
In December, 1895, Captain Cunningham received an apoplectic shock, and from that
time until his death, which occurred August 10, 1896, he was an invalid. His funeral was
most impressive, and the large attendance of prominent citizens showed the high estimation
in which he was held.
Curtis, Henry Fuller, M. D., son of Capt. Henry I'uUer Curtis and Harriet EHzabeth
(Worth) Curtis, was born at Kennebunk, Me., Aug. 22, 1864. Of pure New England an
cestry, his father, of the fifth generation from the original American ancestor of that name,
followed the sea in his early life, and during the War of the Rebellion entered the United
.States Navy and had command of the despatch boat Gamma until peace was declared. His
maternal grandfather, the Rev. Edmund Worth of Kennebunk, Me., who died in his ninety-
first year, was a Baptist clergyman, well known in the States of Maine and X'ew Hampshire as
being prominent in religious and educational work, and also serving as representative to the
General Court of the State of New Hampshire. He continued his public services up to within
a few weeks of his death. An address written and delivered liy him after passing his ninetielh
birthday was pubHshed and reprinted, and used in the course of instruction in one of our well-
known professional schools, an honor which he did not fail to appreciate.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 515
Dr. Curtis spent his boyhood in Kennebunk, attending the public schools of that place.
In the fall of 1882 he entered the Waterville Classical Institute, now Coburn Classical Insti
tute, of Waterville, Me., and graduated from it in the class of 1883. He then entered
Colby University, and was graduated from it in the class of 1887. In the fall of 18S7 he
entered the Harvard Medical School, and graduated from it in the class of 1891. Dur
ing the year previous to July I, 1891, he also served as house physician and surgeon at the
Carney Hospital, South Boston, Mass. Dr. Curtis settled in East Somerville in August, 1891,
where he has since successfully practiced his profession. On July 8, 1891, Dr. Curtis married
Jenny Martin Wales of Boston, daughter of the late Martin Wales of Stoughton, Mass., and
Olive E.Wales. They have two children: Susan Wales Curtis, born May 15, 1892; and
.¦Vlice Elizabeth Curtis, born March 12, 1896.
Dr. Curtis is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Excelsior Council, Royal Arcanum,
Charlestown Commandery, U. O. G. C, Evening Star Lodge, Knights and Ladies of Honor,
Somerville Medical Society, Fellow of the Massachusetts Medical Society, and for two years
served on the Board of Censors of the last-named organization. He acts as medical examiner
for several life insurance companies and benefit orders. Since the organization of the
Somerville Hospital Dr. Curtis has been connected with it as assistant physican and sur
geon. He resides at 145 Perkins street. East .Somerville.
Cushman, Charles A., was born in Newburyport, March 5, 1847, the son of Charles
W. and Jane (Hall) Cushman, of that city. His parents moved to Phiflips, Me., when he
was quite young, and he received his education in the public schools of that place. After
leaving school he was employed for a year by the Androscoggin Railroad, now the Maine
Central, and in 1870 he came to Somerville. He entered the employ of North, Merriam &
Co., afterward C. H. North & Co., and now the North Packing & Provision Co., with whom
he still remains. Mr. Cushman has been superintendent of the packing-house for the past
eighteen years. He is P. M. of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., member of .Somerville R.
A. Chapter, Orient Council, R. and S. M., Cceur de Lion Commandery and Scottish Rite
Masonry; is also a P. G. of Oasis Lodge, P. C. P. Somerville Encampment, I. O. O. F., and
is a director in the Somerville Savings Bank. Mr. Cushman married, in 1868, Miss Calista
M., daughter of Daniel and Affie (Wass) Curtis of Addison, Me. They reside on Prospect
Hill avenue. Cutler, Samuel Newton, son of Samuel and Sarah Jane (Bennett) Cutler, was born
in Boston, January 25, 1855. His parents removed to East SomerviUe early in 1856, and
have since resided there. He was graduated from the Prescott School in 1869, from the
high school in 1873, and from Harvard College in 1877, receiving the degree of A. B. cum
laude. He obtained several prizes during his college course, and was admitted to the famous
Phi Beta Kappa Society. After brief experience in teaching and in western life, in 1880, he
was employed by Messrs. Hill and Cutler, dealers in cotton and cotton waste, and became
a partner of this firm in 1892. X'ovember 9, 1882, he married Miss Ella Frances Stearns,
daughter of Hiram X''. and Charlotte A. Stearns of Somerville. He is a consistent member
of the East SomerviUe Baptist Church, and teacher of a Bible class in the Sunday school.
He has always taken great interest in the cause of education, and is now serving his
eleventh consecutive year on the School Board, having been first elected from Ward i in
1885. He is a member of the Vermont Association of Boston, of Excelsior Council, Royal
.\rcanum, a trustee of Somendlle Savings Bank and a member of its auditing committee. He
resides at 28 Flint street.
Dana, N. B., was born at Canton, Mass., March 10, 1846, the son of George H. and
Sarah A. (Whipp) Dana. He was educated in the public schools of his native town, and
after completing his education he entered the post-office at Canton as assistant post
master, which position he held four years. He then, in 1877, entered the service of the Bos-

Sl6 SO.MERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT.
ton and Lowell Railroad as freight and passenger train-man, was appointed traveling pas
senger agent and spare conductor in 1879, in 18S1 was appointed assistant ticket agent at
the Boston passenger station, and in 1SS4 was appointed ticket agent, which position he
held until the completion of the new Union Station, June i, 1894, when that office was con
solidated with those of the Eastern and \\'estern Divisions. He was then appointed city
ticket agent, which position he now holds, the office being located at 322 Washington street,
Boston. Mr. Dana was married to Miss Phena B. Robinson of Cutler, Me., October 15, 1877 ;
they have one son, Ralph B., and reside at 37 Dartmouth street.
Mr. Dana is a member of Blue Hill Lodge, F. A. A. M., of Canton, Mass.; the Somer
ville Royal Arch Chapter, Orient Council of Royal and Select Masters, and a life member of
Boston Commandery, K. T., Paul Revere Lodge, I. 0. O. F., Winter Hill Encampment, Er
minie Lodge, Daughters of Rebekah, and has recently been appointed to the important posi
tion of Grand Marshal of the Oand Lodge, I. O. O. F.
Davis, Joshua H., was born at Truro, November 4, 1814. He was educated in the
schools of his native town and at the Teachers' Seminary, .\ndover, graduating in 1838.
From 1840 to 1854 he was principal of the Truro Academy, resigning on account of failing
health. He was afterward secretary of the United States Insurance Company for nine years.
In 1854 he took up his residence in Somerville, and was for twenty-five years identified with
the educational interests of our city. He was a member of the .School Board for three years,
and was elected superintendent of schools in 1866, a position which he fiUed with great
ability for twenty-two years. He resigned in 1888, honored and beloved by the entire city.
He was a member of the Legislature in 1889 and 1890.
No man has had greater influence in shaping and elevating our public school system,
or has rendered more efficient service in promoting the educational, the moral, and the re
ligious interests of our people. The purity and nobleness of his character as a Christian
gentleman endear him to the thousands who have known him in private and in public, and
make his life an inspiration and a model.
The Davis School, on Tufts street, was named for him in 1884.
Davis, Levi F. S., was born at Truro, Mass., October 3, 1847, the son of Benjamin
and Betsey (.Stevens) Davis, of that town. His education was obtained at the Prescott
Grammar School and the High School of Somervflle. On leaving school he entered upon
commercial life, and is still engaged in the business of ship brokerage, chandlery and whole
sale paper stock. Mr. Davis came to Somerville in 1856, and served the city in the Common
Council of 1S81 and 1882, and the Board of Aldermen of 1883 and 1884, the last year as
president of the board, and represented the city in the Legislatures of 1885 and 1886. Mr.
Davis is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. M.; Oasis Lodge, I. O. O. F.; and several frater
nal organizations. Mr. Davis married Miss Mary A., daughter of Captain Edgar and Mary
(Stevens) Paine, of Truro. They reside on Pearl street.
Davlin, James F., was born in LoweU, April 25, 1842, the son of Michael F. and
X'ancy (McCollough) Davlin. His education was obtained in the Lowell Grammar Schools.
At sixteen he learned the plumber's trade in New York. In 1862 he enlisted in the United
.States Navy, serving in the .South Atlantic squadron; was promoted to signal quartermaster,
and attached to the staff of Admiral Dahlgren. He settled, after the war, in Cambridge
as a master plumber, and there in 1874 and 1876 was a member of the City Council. In
1878 he came to .SomerviUe, where his business has since been sanitary plumbing. Mr.
DavHn has represented Ward 2 in the Legislature. He has served a term as commander
of Post 139, G. .\. R.; as president of St. Joseph Total Abstinence .Society; and president of
the Master Plumbers' Association of Boston and vicinity, and of the Somerville Celts. He
has frequently been a delegate to the national conventions of the Master Plumbers of the
United States, and is now chairman of the national legislative committee of Master Plum-

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 517
bers. He is a member of the Kearsarge Naval Veterans; a member of Niagara Tribe, I. 0.
R. M.; the Royal Order of Good Fellows, Order of United Workmen, Order of Franklin,
and the SomerviUe Catholic Lyceum. Mr. Davlin married, in 1866, Miss Rebecca A.
Dow, daughter of William and Rebecca (Edgecomb) Dow, of Lisbon, Me. They reside on
Kingman court.
Day, William J., was born in Ipswich, England, January 6, 1859. His mother died
when he was nine months old. In 1867 he came with his father, Joshua Day, to America,
finding a residence at Johnstown, X'. Y. His father and grandfather were both Baptist
preachers. Mr. Day was converted at the age of fifteen, and baptized by his father in the
X'orth Baptist Church, Newark, X. J. About a year afterward the family removed to the
city of Albany, X'^. Y., the father having accepted a call to become the pastor of the Calvary
Baptist Church. .Vfter a year of ministry the pastoral relations were severed by the hand of
death. X'ecessity now compelled the son to shift for himself Employment was found with
the East New York Boot and Shoe Co. of that city, with whom Mr. Day remained two
years. It was while in the employ of this company, that Mr. Day received his first impres
sions relative to entering the ministry, and making that his life-work. Private studies were
pursued under his pastor, the Rev. John Humpstone. These studies were continued at Col
gate Academy and Madison, now Colgate University, at Hamilton, X. Y. Mr. Day left this
institution in 1885, and accepted a call to become the pastor of the Croton Baptist Church,
Croton, Delaware Co., X'. Y. He was ordained the following year, February 19, 1886.
This first pastorate lasted five years. From Croton Mr. Day went to Cobleskill, Schoharie
Co., N. Y. After a two years' ministry he was caUed to become the pastor of the Winter
Hill Baptist Church, entering upon his labors May i, 1892.
Dennett, Nathaniel, who comes of good old New England stock, was born in Ports
mouth, X'. H., where his earlier years were passed and the development of his natural
mechanical and engineering tastes began. Removing to Massachusetts, his technical know
ledge very readily secured him suitable employment, and in 1858 he made an engagement with
the Union Glass Company, with which corporation he remained about four years. Meanwhile
the War of the Rebellion had broken out, and in 1862 he enlisted in the Fifth Massachu
setts Regiment, serving therewith nine months in the Carolinas, much of that time on de
tached service in the line of his special abilities, and he was also on duty, for about three
months, at the Watertown arsenal, immediately after his return from the South. He then
re-entered the employ of the Union Glass Company, remaining therein untU 1872, when he
engaged in the plumbing, gas and steam fitting business on his own account.
In 1877 he was chosen superintendent of the SomerviUe Mystic Water Works, and
has been unanimously re-elected to that responsible position every year since, receiving from
successive water boards the most unequivocal expressions of satisfaction with the skillful
and thorough manner in which his duties have been performed. Under his direction the
water system of Somerville has been almost entirely reconstructed, and to his perception,
study and ingenuity the city is indebted for numerous innovations and improvements where
by the effectiveness of the service, in all its branches, has been materially increased. The
work of introducing the high service ivas fully intrusted to his supervision, and so thoroughly
performed that, for the last six years, the supply of water for protection against fire, street
sprinkling, industrial uses and building operations has been ample and unfailing, while that
for domestic purposes has met all the demands of a large and steadily increasing population,
quite as uninterruptedly.
Mr. Dennett holds an enviable position among hydraulic engineers, and the high
estimation in which his opinions on all matters connected with his profession are held is
attested by the frecjuency with which he is called into consultation with his contempor-

510 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
aries in other places. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Knights of Honor, Royal
Arcanum, New England Water Works .Association, and Willard C. Kinsley Post 139, G. A. R.
Ever since the war he has taken an active interest in everything affecting the welfare
of the veteran soldiers, among whom he enjoys a reputation as a generous and disinterested
fri end which rests on a most substantial foundation.
Dickerman, Frank E., son of Quincy E. and Rebecca M. (Perkins) Dickerman, was
born January, 1865, in Charlestown, Mass. He attended school in .Somerville and Boston,
graduating from the Brimmer School of the latter city, and from the Somerville High School,
maintaining a high rank throughout in his school work. In 1886 he was graduated from
Harvard CoUege, and from the Harvard Law School in 1889.
He entered the law office of Hale and Richardson, and on the appointment of Mr.
Richardson to the bench he became a partner of Mr. Hale, and the firm name became Hale
and Dickerman, as at present. He has served as president of the Somerville Common Coun
cil, and in January, 1896, was chosen president of the Central Club. He is a member of Soley
Lodge, A. F. and A. M., of SomervUle R. .\. Chapter, and of the University Club of Boston.
He resides at 47 Craigie street.
Dickerman, Quincy E., was born in .Stoughton. He was educated at the Phillips
Academy and the State Normal School at Bridgewater. Mr. Dickerman came to Somerville
in 1870. He has served on the School Committee since 1873. He is a member of Soley
Lodge, F. A. M.; and Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., of which he is a past H. P.; and
Winter Hill Lodge, K. H. Mr. Dickerman has been for many years the highly successful
and popular principal of the Brimmer Grammar School, Boston. He resides on Central
street. Dodge, Albert L., the son of Reuben and Betsey (Smith) Dodge, was born at Chelsea,
Vt., December 6, 1831. His education was obtained at Royalton, Vt., to which town his
father removed in 1832. He came to Boston in 1853, and entered the employ of Tarbell
& Dana, wholesale grocers, where he remained eleven years, leaving them to embark in the
same business under the firm name of Tate, Stone and Dodge. This firm dissolved in 1868,
when he entered the employ of Haskell & Adams, wholesale grocers, as buyer and salesman,
which position he still holds. In 1857 he married Sarah A., daughter of Charles D. and
Eleanor (Stinson) Austin of Halifax, N. S. They have had five children, three of whom are
living. He removed to Somerville in 1863, and in 1872 built his present residence at 38
Vinal avenue. Mr. Dodge has always talcen a deep interest in religious work, and has
been an cfficial member of the First M. E. Church, of which he is now class leader and
treasurer of the board of trustees.
Dodge, Seward, was born at Hamilton, Mass., September 12, 1823. At the age of
fifteen he was apprenticed to Ezra Batchelder of Beverly, Mass., who was a ship and car
riage smith and general blacksmith. After serving his full time as apprentice, he engaged
with John Dodge of South Danvers, with whom he worked eleven months; he then came
to Charlestown and entered the employ of Hittinger & Cook, working at horse-shoeing and
blacksmithing for nearly two years. On May 13, 1847, he removed to .SomerviUe and con
tinued at his trade of horse-shoeing, wagon buflding, etc., and he is still engaged at the
same calling, his large and prosperous establishment at Union square being familiar to most
of our residents. Mr. Dodge has served the city in both branches, having been a member
of the Common Council two years, and a member of the Board of Aldermen the same length
of time. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.; of New England Lodge X'^o. 4,
Odd Fellows and Encampment; of the Royal Arcanum and Knights of Honor. He was for
a long period an active member of the National Lancers of Boston under Captains Dear
born, .Slade and Kenny, and is justly proud of his connection with that famous corps.
Donovan, Michael T., was born at Concord, X. H., X^ovember 17, 1857, son of

.Michael T. Donovan.

/ \

fh

Cyrus F. Crosby.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 521
Michael and Nancy (Collins) Donovan. He was educated in the public schools of his
native city, completing the course in the high school at the age of sixteen years. Imme
diately after leaving school, he entered the office of the " X'ew Hampshire Patriot," one of
the oldest newspapers in the country, then owned and edited by the late Colonel E. C.
Bailey, who at one time owned the " Boston Herald." He remained at newspaper work until
opportunity was given him to enter the raUroad field. He came to Boston, eighteen years
ago, to enter the service of the Boston & Lowell Railroad, and steadily advanced to the
position of Chief Clerk of the General Freight Department. In September, 1887, he was
appointed Assistant General Freight .\gent of the Concord Railroad at Concord, X'. H., which
position he held for one year and resigned to accept a responsible position in Boston with
the Canadian Pacific Despatch, a fast freight line operated by the Boston & Maine Railroad,
and the Canadian Pacific Railway. In February, 1891, he was promoted to the position of
Assistant to the General Freight Agent, and August 1, 1892, was appointed General Freight
Agent of the Boston lV Maine Railroad, which position he now occupies. He resides at
West Somerville.
Duddy, Robert, son of William and Catherine (Alger) Duddy, was born at the " X'orth
End " in Boston, February 17, 1843. After receiving his education at the Elliot School,
he learned the cooper's trade, and subsequently the produce business. He served through
out the Civil War in the Eleventh Massachusetts Battery in the Army of the Potomac, and
was in all the engagements of Grant's army in 1864 and 1865. '¦^' '^e close of the war he
was engaged in the trucking business in Boston, in which he continued for twenty years.
He came to SomerviUe in 1881, and ten years later established the horse-boarding and sale-
stable on Pearl street. He was a member of the Common Council of Somerville in 1886 and
1887, and of the Board of Aldermen of 1888 and 1889, serving as chairman of some of the
most important committees under Mayors Burns and Pope.
Mr. Duddy represented the Seventh Middlesex District in the Legislature of 1894, being
honored by the " largest vote ever given a .Somerville representative." He was on the
committee to represent the Slate at the dedication of the Robert G. Shaw monument, and in
1895 "'^^> "'^'h the late Governor F. T. Greenhalge, a delegate at the dedication of the
X'ational Cemetery at Chattanooga and Chickamauga. Under Ex-Mayor Wm. L. Hodgkins,
he was appointed superintendent of the Health Department, which position he resigned last
September to accept the office of deputy sheriff and court officer for Middlesex County. Mr.
Duddy married Miss Mary E. Corey, daughter of James and Julia (Long) Corey of Boston,
and has a family of three daughters and oiie son. They reside on Bond street. Mr. Duddy
is a member of Temple Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Signet Chapter, R. .\. M.; Orient Council, R. &
S. M.; Capt. -Gen. of Coeur de Lion Commandery, K. T. ; Paul Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F.;
Monument Council, R. A. He is an ex-president of the Winter Hill Club, and of the
Eleventh Massachusetts Battery .\ssociation. At the semi-centennial celebration in this city
in 1892 he was appointed colonel of the second division by Gen. Thomas Wentworth.
Dunklee, Daniel Denney, son of WiUiam A. and Mercy (Joy) Dunklee, was born in
Boston, June 23, 1843. He was educated in the public schools of Boston and Charlestown,
and in the West Brattleboro, Vt., Academy. March 29, 1864, he enlisted from Boston in the
U. S. Signal Corps, in which he served for two years. After his return he was employed by
Poor, Towne & Co., druggists. Later he was for seventeen years with ¦Matthew P. Elliot in
the hat business. He established himself in that business in 1873, continuing in it until
1883. In 1885 he entered the employ of G. C. Dunklee & Co., his father being the head of
the firm. In 1892 he purchased the business and has continued it to the present time at
113 Blackstone street, Boston, under the name of Dunklee & Co. In 1870 he married Miss
Jeannette R. Whitehouse, of Topsham, Me. They have had three children, of whom Flor
ence and Lorimer.are now living. His son Fred W. dieil .\ugust 26, 1892. Mr. Dunklee

Julius A. Durell.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 523
is active in the Tremont Temple Church and Society. He is a member of Post 139, G. .\. R.;
Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M.; Royal Arch Chapter; and Orient CouncU, aU of Somerville; and
of De Molay Commandery, of Boston. He is a 32d degree Mason in Massachusetts Con
sistory. He has lived in Somerville ten years, and his residence is at 9 Oakland avenue.
Durell, Rev. George W. A history of Somerville would be incomplete without a
tribute to " Father DureU," as Rev. George Wells Durell was lovingly called by old and
young. iVIr. Durell was born in Kennebunkport, Me. He graduated from Bowdoin Col
lege, and was at once elected principal of Limerick Academy. After teaching four years,
he entered the Theological Seminary of Virginia, to prepare for the work to which he devoted
his life. He was ordained in Brunswick, Me., by Bishop Burgess. His marriage to Miss
Jane B. Moulton, of Topsham, soon followed in the'same church, and, full of hope and cour
age, he went to his new labors on the frontier of the State. At Calais he founded the most
easterly parish of the United States, and built a church of unusual beauty, where he remained
for eleven years, serving all the time upon the School Board of the city. He was then
chosen rector of Grace Church, Bath.
In the fall of 1866 he came to SomerviUe, having been called to Emmanuel Parish, and
on the 1st of July, 1869, he became rector of St. Thomas' Parish, and continued in that
position until his death, August 24, 1895. Under his direction the St. Thomas' Church was
built, and that it was entirely free from debt when he passed away was owing to his earnest
work and loving self-sacrifice. Probably no person was better known to the people of
SomerviUe generally than Rev. Mr. Durell. He was to be seen daUy upon the streets, and
his familiar figure, always recognized in any company, will never be forgotten; he had a
kindly greeting and a cheery smile for everyone.
Mr. Durell always took great pleasure outside of his parish duties in his close associa
tion with the Freemasons of Somerville and vicinity, and was honored by them in many
ways. He was chaplain of John Abbot Lodge, the Royal Arch Chapter, and the Council of
Royal and Select Masters. With the first of these he served twenty-nine years, with the
second from its organization, and he was for a long time prelate of the commanderies of
Knights Templar of Chelsea and Charlestown. With his other duties he found time to serve
the city upon the School Board thirteen years, and when the schoolhouse was built at the
corner of Beacon and Kent streets, it was named for him, and it now stands as a perpetual
monument to his memory. He was a man strong in his faith, tender-hearted, kind and
sympathetic, considerate and unselfish, and in all his relations with the world he was gentle,
gracious, and of an affectionate spirit. As a churchman he was broad-minded and consid
erate in his dealings with the clergy and laymen of all other denominations. To all who
worshipped the living God and beHeved in a Christ crucified for man's redemption he e.\-
tended the right hand of fellowship, and was ready to work with them for the universal
brotherhood of man. His work on earth is finished, but as long as the spire of St. Thomas'
Church points heavenward just so long will it speak of the love and gratitude of his fellow-
men. Durell, Julius A., son of Henry and Nancy (Mixer) Durell, was born in Boston, Jan
uary 9, 1844. He was educated in the schools of Paris, Me., to which town his family-
removed when he was quite young, and in the Hebron, Me., Academy. .After leaving
school he worked at farming five years, and in 1869 came to Somerville, where he has since
resided. In 1877 he embarked in the hardware and plumbing business on his own account,
establishing himself at 277 Broadway. He remained there three years, when he erected the
building at X'o. 309 Broadway, and has continued there until the present time. His busi
ness is quite large and extends to places far remote from this city, Mr. Durell's work being
well and favorably known. He has been twice married, his first wife was Emma A. Jordan,
and his second, Mrs. M. Ella Hartshorn. Mr. Durell is a member of Paul Revere Lodge,

BYRON EAMES.

SO.MERVILLE, P.IST .4ND PRESENT. 525
and Winter Hill Encampment, I. O. O. F. ; Erminie Lodge of Daughters of Rebekah; Har
mony Council of the Home Circle; (1. Q. U. W., etc. He has been treasurer of the Winter
Hill Baptist Church for the past ten years.
Durell, Dr. Thomas Moulton, son of Rev. George Wells and Jane Berry (Moulton)
DureU, was born at Calais, Me., October 2, 1858. He is of the DureU family that came from
the Island of Jersey in 1678 and settled in .\rundel, now Kennebunkport, Me., where his
father was born. His parents moved to SomerviUe while he was a child, and his early edu
cation was received in the schools of that city, graduating from the high school. Enter
ing the Harvard Medical School at the age of eighteen, he was graduated in 1879. He studied
for six months in Europe and one year in the Connecticut General Hospital in X'ew Haven.
In 1881 he commenced practice in Somerville, and in 1882 was appointed city physician,
which office he held till 1889. In the year 1887 he was appointed, by Gov. Robinson, Medi
cal Examiner for the Second District of Middlesex County, and was reappointed in 1893 by
Gov. Russell. He is now professor of legal medicine in the Medical School of Tufts College,
a member of the Medical Board of the Hospital, and has been on the Board of Health of
Somerville. From 1884 to 1888 he was surgeon of the first battalion of Cavalry of Massachu
setts militia. He is a member of Massachusetts Medical S(3ciety, and the .Massachusetts
Medico-Legal Sociey. He is a past master of John Abbot Lodge of Masons, a member of
Somerville R. A. Chapter, Cceur de Lion Commandery, K. T., of Charlestown, and a past
district deputy grand master of the sixth Masonic district. He is a member of Oasis Lodge,
I. O. O. F., member of the Central Club, Somerville, and the University Club of Boston. He
has been a member of the School Board of Somerville for many years, which office he now
holds. On June 3, 1886, he married Miss Alma L. BrintnaU of Charlestown. Their chUdren
are Thomas and Ralph BrintnaU Durell. Dr. Durell resides at Xo. 23 Bow street.
Durgin, Asa, was born in Limerick, Me., on the loth of AprU, 1831. In 1849 he
came to Massachusetts, and for several years was in the employ of Gage, Hittinger iS: Co.,
the well-known ice dealers. In 1858 he went into the ice business on his own account in
Cambridge, and he has built up a large and successful enterprise, being favorably known
over a wide territory for strict and honorable dealings.
.'Vlthough not a politician in the usual sense of the word, his abilities have been recog
nized by his fellow-citizens, and from 1876 to 1883 he represented them in the City Govern
ment to their entire satisfaction, serving two years in the CouncU, and five years on the Board
of Aldermen. He has been a resident of Somerville for thirty years, and is much respected
by all who know him.
Eames, Byron, son of John and Caroline F. (Day) Eames, was born at Groveton, X'.
IL, Xov. 2, 1859. After three years' study in Charlestown schools, he attended the St. Johns
bury, Vt., Academy, from which he graduated in 1877, taking a full scientific course and fitting
for college. He was engaged with his father in the lumber trade about ten years, and at the
age of twenty-six came to Boston and embarked in the milk business, in which he has con
tinued until the present time. October 30, 1886, he married Miss Mary Richey of Groveton,
X'.IT., and they have one son. Mr. Eames is engrossed with his business, and has had no time
to devote to society and club affairs, the only Somerville organization that he has joined being
the Winter Hill Club, of which he is one of the directors. He resides on Sycamore street.
Eberle, Philip, was born in Baden, Germany, June 22, 1833. At the age of fifteen
he left school to learn the shoemaker's trade, and three years later, after obtaining permis
sion from his guardian, his parents having died when he was a child, he came to this coun
try, landing in X'^ew York in July, 1851. He subsequently removed to Boston, and in conse
quence of his inability to speak our language was obliged to work for very small wages, his
first year's salary amounting to only thirty dollars. After spending five years in Cambridge
he came to Somerville in 1857, opened a shoe-store on Somerville avenue, opposite the

526 SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
Bleachery office. In 1867 he was a member of the association that was formed to erect the
Union HaU Co. Building, and when the structure was completed, he, in June, 1868, established
in it the shoe store in which he has continued business until the present time. In 1884 he
erected the so-called Eberle Building in Union square, in which Eberle HaU is located. Mr-
Eberle has been connected with the Somerville Savings Bank since its origin, and has been
on the investment committee of the bank for the past seven years. He married Miss Cather
ine Murtugh, and their family consists of two sons and one daughter. They reside at 47
Columbus avenue.
Edgerly, John S., was born X'ovember 30, 1804, at Meredith, X'. H., and, like many
others, early left his home in the country to get a better living in the city of Boston. About
1836 he moved to Winter Hill, then a part of Charlestown. He was always interested in
public affairs, and was one of five who were instrumental, by their earnest zeal, in having
what is now Somerville set off from Charlestown as a separate town. He was for fourteen
years one of the Board of Selectmen and most of that time its chairman. He served on the
School Board, and as an Overseer of the Poor in those early days, and "no night was too
dark or road too bad for him to start with his lantern and shovel to break out any
place that his horse could not get through, whenever there was need." He died January 20,
1872. The Edgerly School, named in his honor, was estabHshed in 1871.
Elliot, Charles D., was born in Foxboro, Mass., in 1837, son of Joseph and Zenora
(Tucker) Elliot. His ancestors were early settlers of Taunton. His great-grandfather,
Joseph Eliot, a revolutionary soldier, served in the siege of Boston, and in campaigns in
New Jersey and in New York against Burgoyne. Another ancestor, John Hicks, was a
member of the " Boston Tea Party," and was one of the " men of Cambridge " killed in the
battle of Lexington. His great-grandfather Tucker's family were among those who fled
from their burning homes in Charlestown during its destruction by the British. Mr. EUiot
came to .SomerviUe in 1846, and was educated in its grammar and high schools, and in the
" Hopkins Classical " at Cambridge, — studied civil engineering in office of W. B. Stearns
(late Pres. Fitchburg R. R.) and Daniel A. Sanborn, and w-as engaged in railroad and other
engineering, on surveys of Somerville, and upon Charlestown Water-Works, until he w-as
appointed by the War Department in 1862 as Topographical Engineer and assigned to 19th
Army Corps, serving under Generals Banks, Franklin, firover and Asboth, in the Teche,
Port Hudson, Sabine Pass and Red River campaigns and in Florida, on reconnoissance and
in charge of construction of field fortifications, etc. In 1863 he married Emily J., daughter
of Judge Hyer of Louisiana. From 1866 to 1868 he was engaged in a manufacturing
business. He was in partnership with W. A. Mason, C. E., from 1869 to 1872; in 1871-1872,
engineer of Arlington Water- Works; was city engineer of Somerville in 1872— i874and 1875;
on surveys and estimates for Cape Cod Canal, 1881-1882 and 1884; and in 1894-1895 he
laid out the proposed " Mystic Valley Parkway" He is engaged in professional practice, and
is agent for estates of J. C. Ayer in Somerville and Brookline. He is a member of the American
Society of Civil Engineers, of the N. E. Historic Genealogical Society, Sons of American
Revolution, and other orders. Resides at 59 Oxford street.
Elliot, Miss Mary E., was born in Somerville, February 2, 1851, and is a daughter of
the late Joseph and Zenora (Tucker) Elliot, and a sister of Charles D. Elliot. Her ancestors
on both sides were among the earliest settlers of Massachusetts. She is a lineal descendant
of two revolutionary soldiers, Joseph Eliot and John Hicks, both of whom died in the
service. Her grandfather, .Stephen Tucker, was a schoolboy in Charlestown at the time of
the battle of Bunker Hill, and was among those who fled to Medford for safety during the
siege. In later years he settled in the Green Mountain State, and was the first town clerk
of Mount HoUy, Vt. Miss Elliot's father was one of the founders of the First Univer
salist Church of .SomerviUe. She attended the Prospect Hill School, and later a private school

Russell C. Elliott.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST .4ND PRESENT. 529
in Foxboro, where she lived from 1862 to 1866. During a residence in Cambridge she was
active in temperance work, and continued her interest on returning to Somerville, where
she has resided the past twenty-five years. She has given addresses in behalf of the cause
in many parts of the State, and has served as secretary of local, county and state organizations.
She was president of the Somervflle W. C. T. U. in 1877. In 1878 she assisted in forming
Willard C. Kinsley Relief Corps, and served as is first president, continuing in the office six
years. She was a delegate to the national convention at jNIinneapolis in 1884, and has at
tended every subsequent national convention, serving several years on the press committee,
and as assistant national secretary at San Francisco. In July, 1885, Miss Elliot was appointed
secretary of the Department of Massachusetts W. R. C, which position she still holds.
This department has supervision of one hundred and seventy corps, whose work is conducted
on a systematic basis, similar to that of the Grand Army of the Republic. She is a writer
for the press, and was chairman of the history committee of the Department of .Massachu
setts W. R. C, under whose charge a volume of four hundred pages has recently been pre
pared. Miss Elliot has delivered six memorial-day addresses, and has spoken in nearly every
part of the State at patriotic gatherings. She is one of the original members of the Ladies'
Aid Association of the Soldiers' Home in Massachusetts, and has served on the Board of
Directors and as a vice-president. She is secretary of Bunker Hill Chapter, Daughters of
the American Revolution, and is a member of several local societies.
Elliott, Russell C, was born in Concord, X'. H., June 5, 1842, son of Captain Enoch
B. and Jane (Bowers) Elliott of that city. He attended the Oliver Grammar and High
School of Lawrence, Mass., where he spent his boyhood. His war record is a remarkable
one. Enlisting a private, he attained the rank of Captain in the Third Massachusetts Cav
alry by an unequalled service in his regiment. Participating in all the battles the regiment
was engaged in, he was ten times wounded,' and carried a Minie ball twelve years. In the
engagements of Sabine Cross Roads, Jackson, Bayou Rapides, Snaggy Point, Old Oaks, X'atchi-
toches, Piney Woods, La., and at Winchester and Cedar Creek, \'a., he performed such ex
ceptional acts of gallantry the officers of his regimental association, his old commander and
other comrades petitioned the War Department for a proper recognition therefor, and Con
gress awarded him a Medal of Honor for " distinguished gallantry." At Jackson, La., he
led twelve men in a charge through the enemy's cavalry and infantry lines, and brought awav
four prisoners with only one man killed. At Bayou Rapides, again surrounded, he led his
whole company through two lines of the enemy, both armies cheering the dashing act. He
is in business at 43 Milk street, Boston, and has made great improvements in electric heating,
lighting, power and telephoning apparatus. His opinions on patent rights " seem phenome
nal " to quote others, having been invariably sustained when submitted to court decision.
Captain Elliott married Miss Julia Greer, daughter of Andrew and Jane (Green) Greer of
Boston. Mrs. Elliott was a most lovable and accomplished lady and a remarkable vocalist.
She died Aprfl 18, 1891. Through Captain EUiott's efforts many houses have been built and
much real estate improved in SomerviUe. He came to live here in 1878, and has resided at
the corner of Perkins and Florence streets since 1883. Though taking an active interest in
politics, Mr. Elliott liever aspired to official position, and many times has refused appointive
oflices. Elston, Abraham A., the son of Benjamin and Hannah (Bartlett) Elston, was born in
St. John, X'. B., April 15, 1858. He has resided in Somerville since 1867. He started busi
ness as a contractor, and has taken down more than 2,000 buildings, including many of the
largest and most famous of the older Boston buildings, such as the Tremont House, Tremont
Temple, Boylston Market, etc. He was married June 16, 1886, to Miss Mary E. McCann.
They have three children. He has served in the City Council of SomervUle, and is a mem
ber of the Young Men's Democratic Club, the Knights of Columbus and Good FeUows. He

530 SOMERITLLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
has a large yard and storehouses at the corner of Sixth street and Broadway, Cambridge.
His Boston office is at i66 Devonshire street. He has resided at 25 Preston street since
1890. Farrell, Michael F., was born in the city of Kilkenny, Ireland, September 13, 1848.
He came to X'ew York City, where he was educated in the puphc schools. He came to Somer
ville in 1864, and finished his education at Boston College, ilr. Farrell studied law in the of
fice of Edwin S. Hovey in Boston, and was admitted to the Middlesex Bar in 1871. From
1874 to 1879 he was a member of the SomerviUe School Board. In 1877 he was admitted
to the bar of the Circuit Court of the United States. When Judge Brown resigned his office
of Special Justice of the Police Court of Somerville in 1888, Mr. Farrell was requested to ac
cept the position, but declined in favor of Charles G. Pope, who was appointed. After the
death of Judge Pope in 1893 he Avas appointed, and was unanimously confirmed by the
Council. He married Elizabeth M. Treanor of Boston in 1874.
Fitch, Nathan A., son of X'athan and Louisa (Burnham) Fitch, was born in Bedford,
M.iss., 1836. He was educated in the public schools in that town, and at New Hampton,
X. H. He came to Boston in 1852, and entered the employ of Hervey & Moore, provision
dealers, on Leverett street, where he remained for seven years; he subsequently entered the
Faneuil Hall Market, where he is at present located, engaged in the poultry business. Soon
after coming to the city he united with the Baldwin-Place Church, but shortly after removed
to the Baptist Bethel, then under the pastorate of the Rev. Phineas Stowe, where he has
been for thirty-eight years actively engaged in the work of the church and Sunday-school,
having served the school thirty-six years as its superintendent, and eighteen years as treasurer
of the church and society. He is trustee of the Phineas Stowe Sailors' Home, the Howard
Lodge, I. O. O. F., and the N. E. O. P. He is also a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M.,
the Boston Fruit and Produce Exchange, the Chamber of Commerce, the Excelsior Council,
R. .\., the Knights of Honor, and A. 0. U. W., Beacon Lodge, Boston. He served the city
in the Common Council in 1882, and Board of Aldermen in 1883 and 1884. Mr. Fitch
married Calista F., daughter of Reuben and Beatrice (Beard) Tarbell of Rindge, X'. H.
They have resided for twenty-two years on Franklin street.
Fitz, N. Everett, was born in Charlestown, February 24, 1830, the eldest son of Abel
Fitz, who carried on the grain mills at Charlestown Neck until 1840, and who removed to
Mt. Vernon street, Somerville, in 1846, and served on the Board of Assessors with John C.
Magoun. X. Everett Fitz entered the employ of W. B. Reynolds & Co. on Commercial Wharf,
Boston, in 1846, and in 1850 went to Charlestown as bookkeeper for his brother-in-law,
X'athan Tufts, Jr., at the miUs previously operated by his father. In 1857 he married
Harriet A., daughter of John C. and Sarah A. Magoun, and moved to the house now occupied
by him on Broadway, Winter Hill. In 1864 he embarked in the coal and wood business in
Charlestown and still continues in the same at 541 Main street.
Flewelling, Dr. Douglas S., was born in CUfton, K. C, X'. B., in 1861, and is a grand
son of the late Hon. W. P. Flewelling, Surveyor-General of New Brunswick and a colonel
of the mUitia. In the American Revolution his maternal ancestors fought on the side of the
loyalists, while his paternal grandmother was a New York lady of revolutionary stock. He
was educated in public schools and the Normal College, from which he was graduated at the
age of eighteen. He was principal of Graded .School in Kingston, second master of Sussex
High School, organist in Trinity Church, and was identified wdth the Eighth Regiment of
Cavalry. He was three years principal of Brigus Academy, Xewfoundland, and during his
vacations improved the opportunities for sport with rod and gun. He lectured in Schmidt's
Educational Institute in New York one year. After a three years' course in the University of
X^ew York he was graduated as physican and surgeon. He spent one term in the Lying-in-
Hospital, and took private course with Dr. Gibbs of New York, a specialist in the treatment

Douglas S. Flewelling, M. D.

A. Ward Follett, M.D.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 533
of diseases of women. The doctor is fond of field sports, especially tennis and cricket. He
is a member of the I. O. O. F., the .\. and I. O. K. of M., and Fellow of the Massachusetts
Medical Society. He is located at Xo. 9 Carlton street, and has an extensive practice.
Follett, Dr. A. Ward, was born in Royalton, Vt, January 27, 1858, the son of Annie
and .\rvilla (Dodge) Follett, now of Sharon, Vt., and direct descendant of Robert Follett of
Salem, Mass., born in 1625 and died in 1708. His early education was obtained in the
schools of his native town, afterv/ards graduating from the Randolph State X'ormal .School.
He taught several years in the Vermont schools, and graduated from Dartmouth Medical
College in 1881. Dr. Follett served as assistant physician in the Butler Hospital, Provi
dence, R. I., from 1881 to 1886, when he moved to Cambridge, Mass., and in 1888 com
menced the practice of his profession in Somerville. He is a member of Somerville Royal
Arch Chapter, R. A. M., also member of the Vermont State Medical, Somerville Medical and
Massachusetts Medical Societies. In 1886 he married Carrie B., eldest daughter of Charles
S. Gove of Cambridge. They reside at 488 Broadway.
Foote, Edward, was born in Lee, Mass., in October, 1824. He was educated in and
graduated from the Lee Academy in 1842, and \\as a teacher in the public schools six
seasons — winters. In 1844 he came to Boston and entered the employ of A. A. Frazar,
father of the late Douglas Frazar, then engaged in the East India trade, but returned to Lee
in the spring of 1845, where he remained several years in the farming and lumbering busi
ness. In 1851 ilr. Foote bought a farm in Smithtown, Long Island, X^. Y., and during
twelve years of his residence there was engaged in handling stock, which he bought in the
north and west, and sold in the markets of Long Island. In 1864 he came to Somerville
and entered into partnership with the late George Skilton and his son George C. Skilton,
under the firm name of Skilton, Foote & Co., for the manufacture of what is well known as
the Bunker Hill brand of pickles. Since the death of Mr. Skilton, Sr., there have been
associated with him, under the same firm name, George C. Skilton and Edward H. Foote.
For a term of six years, from 1877 to 1882 inclusive, he was a member of the Somerville
Water Board, four years of which he was [its president, ilr. Foote is the oldest living
charter member of the Winter Hill Lodge, K. H., and has been a member of the Broadway
Congregational Church of Somerville for more than a quarter of a century, and during the
last twenty years one of its deacons. He married Mrs. Emily Chapman, daughter of
David and Eliza (Jones) Curtis of Curtisville, and for twenty-five years has resided at 419
Broadway terrace.
Forster, Charles, was born in Charlestown, June 13, 1798, and died there September
I, i865. He was engaged in mercantile pursuits until 1856, when he retired from active
business. He held many public offices in Charlestown, and was the representative at the
time the Convent was burned. In 1845 he removed to Somerville, and lived until 1863 at
the corner of Sycamore street and Broadway. As a citizen of Somerville, he was always
interested in the public welfare. The city is largely indebted to him for the trees which now
adorn the streets of Winter HiU. In 1854 the Forster School was named in his honor.
One who knew him well said of him — " He occupied a place second to none in the hearts
and affections of the people of Somerville, and left behind him a reputation which any man
might envy — the reputation of a man who, by the purity of his life and character, his
sweetness and kindliness of disposition, his unostentatious benevolence, the years of a long
life devoted to charity towards the poor and suffering, had endeared himself to all who knew
him, and grown deep into their hearts."
Frazar, Douglas, was born in Duxbury in 1836. He attended the schools of the town
and Dixwell's private school in Boston, from which he graduated. His father was a prosper
ous State-street merchant, owning ships that sailed all over the globe, and while every
opportunity was open to the boy to enter a mercantile life, he chose the sea as a profession.

534 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
He made his first voyage as a boy before the mast, going around the world, receiving a
salary of J;2.oo a month. This trip occupied fourteen months. He advanced rapidly through
the grades of seamanship, and when but twenty-one years of age he sailed from India
Wharf, bound for China, as master of the bark Maryland, fitted out for him by his father.
Arriving in China in 1859, a good prospect for business was opened to the young man, which
he decided to accept, and he became the junior partner in the house of Frazar & Co., now
one of the largest of the American East India houses. At the breaking out of the Civil
War, Captain Frazar came home, offering his services to Governor Andrew of this State.
As no cavalry regiment -was at that time recruiting here. Captain Frazar received autograph
letters of introduction to' Governor Seymour of New York, from Governor Andrew, Charles
.Sumner, Henry Wilson and Josiah Quincy, and went to New York, where he took part in
cfueUing the draft riots, and was, for his services, made major of the Thirteenth New York
Cavalry by Governor Seymour, having gained the position on his own merits and without
the use of his letters. During the war Major Frazar was promoted to the colonelcy of one
of the South Carolina colored regiments, with Vice-President Wflson's only son as his
lieutenant-colonel. At the close of the war he was brevetted by the President as brigadier-
general of volunteers, "for faithful service during the war.''
Soon after, by personal request of Vice-President Wilson, General Frazar went to
Virginia on a special mission to the freedmen. He remained two years, establishing schools,
and otherwise assisting the colored people in their new positions as citizens. In 1870 he
re-entered business with his father. Captain Frazar, but in the crisis of 1873 their property
was swept away. Mr. Frazar was married in 1872 to Mae Durell, daughter of Rev. and Mrs.
George \\'. Durell, and after a period of resirlence in Boston they came to .Somerville to
make their home. Mr. Frazar was widely known in Somerville, both on account of his
public service and his literary attainments. He held the position of city auditor for sixteen
years, and was for fifteen years clerk of the Common Council. Besides these offices, he held
other positions of trust. During the long period of sixteen years of his connection with the
city departments, he was for eleven years joint auditor for the Boston & Maine and the
Eastern Railroads, and also for five years confidential clerk to General Manager James T.
Furber. As a writer. General Frazar gained considerable prominence. He had been a con
tributor to " Harper's Magazine," the " Youth's Companion," and other high-class periodicals.
He was the author of three books : " The Log of the Maryland," " Perseverance Island,"
and " Practical Boat Sailing." He also wrote several plays, and as a lecturer made an
enviable reputation. He had studied in Paris, and during his extensive travels had crossed
the Atlantic forty times. While in China in i860. General Frazar was present at the capture
of Pekin by the allied French and English forces. He was the first American, unattached
to an embassy, to enter Pekin. After the war he continued to take great interest in military
affairs, and was for two years major of the Tigers, a well-known Boston company of infantry.
He was at one time a member of Williard C. Kinsley Post. Gen. Frazar died February 20,
1896, leaving a wife, Mrs. Mae D. Frazar, and two sons.
Frazar, Mrs. Mae Durell, was born in Calais, Me., but came to Somerville when A-ery
young with her father. Rev. George W. Durell. She was educated in our schools, and is an
example of the value of our public school system for a good foundation in intellectual life.
In 1872 she married Gen. Douglas Frazar, Mrs. Frazar carefully cultivated her taste for
study, and acquired able command of her pen. Tier interest in social and home life induced
her to start an enterprise, which under her admirable executive abflity won pronounced
success. It was a periodical entitled "The Home Life," and she secured for it a circulation
of 20,000 subscribers. In 1887 Gen. Frazar desired to visit Mexico with some intention of
making a prolonged residence in that country. Mrs. F'razar accompanied him, surrendering
" The Home Life " to other hands. She still, however, retained her hold on the pen, and con-

Frederick C. Fuller.

536 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST .4ND PRESENT.
tributed interesting and instructive articles to the Boston papers; this she did for something
over a year. On her return to Somerville her own experience in travel and her quick
appreciation of a traveler's annoyances and necessities prompted her to undertake — what
no other woman has done so continuously and successfully — a number of European tours ;
these tours were rendered delightful by her carefully arranged routes, and by her own per
sonal oversight of those who patronized her enterprise. i\Irs. Frazar has crossed the Atlan
tic eighteen times in furthering her tours. It might weU be thought that such business
cares w-ould entirely engross one's energy, but, on the contrary, she made extensive notes
on her travels, and has given lectures upon the cities and countries she has visited,
replete with interesting information, careful descriptions and characteristic humor. Besides
lecturing in many of the cities of the United States, she has written and published poems and
sketches of travels, and has prepared, and has ready for the press, a unique guidebook of
foreign lands, containing legends, historical facts and much general information, all of which
have been gleaned and selected with care, and will prove of great value not only to the
tourist, but to the home reader.
Her social life is as broad and intense as her literary and business life. She was one
of the founders of the Heptorean Club, is an honorary member of the Daughters of Maine,
and a member of the X'ew England Women's Press Association. .\11 these absorbing cares
do not decrease her interest in others. She is attentive to the needs of those who deserve
charity, and her gifts are wellnigh without stint. Altogether she is a remarkable woman.
No woman has ever had the conrluct of such large excursion parties. No woman can be
more diligent in deed, in speech or with pen. Her knowledge of books is extensive. She
has facile use of several languages besides her own, and it goes without saying that she has
friends in all parts of the world.
Somerville is to be congratulated in having such a citizen, a woman who is at once an
incentive to, and an example of, all that is most praiseworthy in true womanhood.
Fuller, Frederick C, son of John and Martha T. Fuller, was born in Rockland, Me.,
June 2, 1884. When six years of age he moved to Norridgewock, Me., where he remained
until twenty years of age, being a farmer's boy. He then removed to Lewiston, Me., and was
working in the Androscoggin Mills, when he enlisted in the Seventh Maine Battery Light
.¦Vrtillery. At the close of the war he went to Lowell and worked for the Boott corporation,
where he stayed three years, and then went to Wilton, N. H., and learned the carpenter's
trade, remaining four years, going thence to Nashua and afterwards to Boston. Mr. Fuller
came to Somervflle in 1870, and after serving as journeyman and foreman for several car
penters went into business in 1881 for himself, and he has erected a number of important
buildings, and has remodeled the City Hall several times. In November, 1895, after being
five years in the hardware business, he was appointed inspector of buildings and has proved
himself most admirably fitted for the position, issuing over 600 permits last year, and revolu
tionizing the plumbing and building ordinances.
Mr. Fuller married Emma J. Law of Lowell, and two sons were born to them. Mrs-
Fuller died recently. He is a member of Pentucket Lodge, A. F. and F. A., Somerville
Royal Arch Chapter, Cteur de Lion Commandery, Orient Council, Paul Revere Lodge, Unity
Council, and the Central Club. He lives at 41 Dartmouth street.
Fuller, Stephen W., the son of Stephen and Dorcas FuUer, was born in Charlestown,
Mass., at "Craft's Corner," January i, 1836. Commencing at the Primary School on Bow
street, he afterwards attended the Training Field School under the late Stacy Baxter, and the
Harvard and High Schools, leaving the latter in 1854, to earn a living in the lumber business
at the Prison Point lumberyard. He remained at this place until 1858, when he went to
Charlestown Neck on the Greenleaf Wharf In i860 he and Mr. John F. Ayer commenced
business together as lumber dealers, and the firm continued until 1875, when Mr. Fuller took the

Stephen W. Fuller.

C/5

3

-1

P-

cto
13

Qi

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 539
whole business, occupying the same office for thirty-six years. Finding that the old quarters
were not large enough for his increasing trade, he removed to 4S2 Rutherford avenue, Charles
town, where he is now located and carrying on a very large lumber business, the railroad
cars running into his yard direct from the mills of aU parts of the country. In i860 Mr.
Fuller married Miss Lavina P. Turner of Lyme, X'. H.; they have one daughter, who is mar
ried to Mr. Charles E. Prichard of this city. In i860 Mr. Fuller removed to .Somervflle.
In 1873 he served the city as a member of the Common Council, and in the following year
was a member of the Board of Aldermen, and chairman of the Board of Health and the
Highway Committee. At the expiration of his two years' city service he retired, and devoted
himself entirely to his business. His residence is at 151 Walnut street, in the house which
he erected for his own occupancy in 1861.
Fulton, Justin D., D. D., pastor of First Baptist Church, was born in Earlville,
X. Y., March I, 1828. His father, Rev. John J. Fulton, was descended from X'orth of Ire
land stock, and his mother, Clarissa Dewy Fulton, found a birthplace in Great Barrington,
Mass., and was heir to many of the shining qualities of the Puritan element. In 1836 he
removed with his parents to Brooklyn, Mich., and at the age of eleven united with the
Baptist Church.
Ministers in Michigan, as a rule, were poor, and Mr. Fulton was not an exception.
When eighteen years of age, the son, who up to this time had studied as best he could
when not employed on the farm, hung up the harness one night, and on not taking it down
next morning was asked the reason why. "Am going to college ! " "How?" "Don't
know, but I start this morning." At once he began preparations, and in the fall of 1847
entered the University of Michigan, and remained there three years, paying his way by
working for his board during term-time and by selling books in vacation. At once he took
a foremost position. In his Junior year he was elected president of the college literary
society, an honor generally reserved for students of the Senior Class. In his fourth year
he entered the University of Rochester, that he might take Hebrew and be ready to enter
the Theological Seminary in advance. He was graduated from the University of Rochester
in 185 1, and entering the Theological Seminary, he remained through a part of the second
year, when, urged by the Rev. Spencer H. Cone, D. D., and William H. Wyckoff, LL. D., to
take charge of a Bible Union paper in St. Louis, Mo., he went there in December, 1853.
The paper sprang into a large circulation. In it he printed the " Roman Catholic Element
in American History," which at once arrested attention and excited opposition. Its
ringing words called attention to the man, and twenty-four men and women, meeting in
Biddle Market Hall, having had their attention directed to him, invited him to preach for
them. It was to him a providential call. He was ordained in May, 1854, over the Tabernacle
Baptist Church. He loved to preach, but the characteristics which made him a success as an
editor interfered with his success as a minister. He was bold, radical and outspoken. The
young editor had given himself to the ministry years before, providing God opened the way.
Now that the door was opened, he entered it with avidity. The committee in charge of the
paper objected to the arrangement. The editor replied, " I believe that I am called to
preach the gospel. If editing your paper interferes with this duty, I can give up the paper,
but I will not give up the ministry." He began to preach with great acceptance to the
people, and with unalloyed pleasure for himself In 1855 the church became so large and
the paper so important that Rev. James Inglis, of Detroit, came and took the pastorate of
the church, becoming assistant editor of the paper, while the editor of the paper remained
associate pastor of the church. This was m April. In May at Palmyra, Mo., the stock
holders of the paper met, and it was resolved " that it is not enough that the editor of the
Gospel Banner be a gentleman and a Christian; he must believe that slavery is right /^?-j«

540 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
and defend it." One man, born in New Hampshire, voted for the resolution; no one voted
against it, and the resignation of the editor was offered and accepted. The committee in
charge of the paper lived in St. Louis. The editor-elect, in his first issue, made an attack
upon the man who built up the paper; the committee saw it, stopped the press, confiscated
aU published, and never permitted an issue of the Gospel Banner under the new regime.
Almost pennUess, he turned his back on this city of his love, accepted the invitation of his
brother. Dr. S. J. Fulton, then residing in Toledo, O., to make his house his home until
he had prepared for the press "The Roman Catholic Element in .American History," and
while engaged in this work received an invitation to supply the pulpit in Sandusky, Ohio.
The result was a call to the church and the securing of a helpmeet in the person of Miss
Sarah E. X^orcross, who for twenty-seven years was the companion of his life and the mother
of his four chUdren. In 1859, after a successful pastorate, he removed to Albany, N. Y., and
became pastor of the Tabernacle Baptist Church, and spent the ensuing four years in a very
successful ministry. In December, 1863, he was for the third time invited to the charge of
the Tremont Temple Church. His success in Boston was immediate. He began with fifty
members, and when he left it, ten years later, the membership had reached over a thousand
and the income over $23,000. In 1873, he became pastor of the Hanson-place Baptist
Church of Brooklyn, N. Y. In 1887, he resigned his pastorate in Brooklyn, and became
the pioneer of the great A. P. A. movement.
Dr. Fulton is a prolific writer, a forcible lecturer, and a stirring preacher of the gospel.
He has been greatly blessed in his ministry, and has won to himself a great company of
friends, who are loyal as any man could wish. Among the more notable of his works are
the foUow-ing : " The Roman Catholic Element in American History," already mentioned ;
" Life of Timothy Gilbert, the Founder of the Tremont Temple " ( Boston) ; " The True Wo
man," "The Way Out," "Show Your Colors," "Sam Hobart, the RaUroad Engineer,"
" How to win Romanists," " Washington in the Lap of Rome," "Why Priests should Wed,"
"Spurgeon our Ally," etc., etc. A tract from his pen on the Sabbath has had a circulation
of over one hundred thousand copies. In all the great reforms of the day he takes an active
interest. The above sketches of Dr. Fulton's life are from the pens of the Rev. Robert S.
McArthur, D. D., of New York, Bishop Gilbert Haven, and others.
Furber, William H., was born in Boston, October i, 1828, the son of Thomas and
Sophia (Monroe) Furber, of that city. His education was obtained in the public schools.
Mr. Furber came to Somerville during its existence as a town, and here exercised a large in
fluence. He was a member of the Board of Aldermen for 1872 and 1873, one of the trustees
of the Public Library for 1873, 1874, 1875, ^""i mayor in 1874 and 1875. He delivered the
centennial address on the history of SomerviUe in 1876. Mr. Furber married Miss Joanna,
daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Boynton) Parker. They now reside in Newton.
Galpin, Mrs. Barbara. Among X'ew England newspaper women Mrs. Barbara Gal
pin, of Somerville, enjoys the distinction of being one of the brightest and best equipped in
the profession. She is best known to the majority of Somerville people, perhaps, as the edi
tor of the woman's page of the" Somerville Journal," with which paper she has been connected
for nearly a score of years, and as the originator of the Heptorean Club, and treasurer of that
organization since its inception. But these are not the only, nor even the principal causes
of her distinction. Through her long connection with the " Journal," beginning as compositor,
and being promoted to proof-reader, bookkeeper, and now having the direct charge of all
the details of the large and growing business of the " Somerville Journal " newspaper and job
printing establishment, she has had a remarkably varied experience, and has gained an in
sight into active newspaper management such as is enjoyed by few women. Her woman's
page in the " Journal " is easily one of the best and most readable published. In its columns she
has done much for the social and home sides of life, and also in assisting local charities.

Residence of Aime E. Giroux, 67 Pearl Street.

JOSEPH J. Giles.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 543
She has contributed frequently to other papers, and her briUiant letters of travel and grace
ful poems have been widely read; in short, she is a thorough, all-round newspaper woman.
With all her excellent business ability Mrs. Galpin is eminently modest and womanly, and her
social life is peculiarly brilliant and charming. One published volume has come from her
pen, " In Foreign Lands," an entertaining description of travel in Europe. Besides her con
nection with other organizations, Mrs. Galpin has for several years been the efficient treasurer
of the New England Woman's Press .-Issociation; she was also one of the founders of the
"Daughters of Vermont," is an associate member of the " Daughters of Xew Hampshire,''
and is an active inemljer of the American .Authors' Guild, of New York City.
Giles, Joseph J., was born in SomerviUe near the site of the present Union square, in
March, 1842, his birth being the first in the town after its incorporation. ITis early education
was obtained in the Somerville schools, and it was completed in the old High School building
which is now the City Llall. In .\pril, 1861, after the opening of the rebellion, he went to
the front with the Somerville Light Infantry, Co. I, 5th Regiment, and participated in the
first battle of Bull Run. In August, 1862, he enlisted for three years in the Somerville Guard,
Co. E, 39th Regiment, and was commissioned as its first lieutenant. He subsequently served
eleven months as an aid-de-camp to Gen. Martindale, the military governor of Washington,
D. C. In 1891 and 1892 he represented his district in the Legislature, serving on the com
mittee on insurance, and administrative boards and commissions. He has been engaged
in the real estate and insurance business in Union square since 1876, and is well and favor
ably known by the residents of .SomerviUe, his business and social acquaintance being un
usually wide and varied. His residence is at 34 Putnam street.
Gilman, Charles E., was born in- Shrewsbury, Mass., January i, 1809, son of Joseph
and Lucy (Sawyer) Gflman. His father died when Charles was an infant, and his widowed
mother was alone left to provide for him. Coining to Medford he received his education in
the public schools, and was then apprenticed to learn the baker's trade; this was found un
congenial to his inclinatioiis, and he received a position on the Boston and Low^ell Rail
road, in which he sold the first ticket from Boston to Lowell. He remained with the road
several years, and then secured a position in the New England Bank of Boston, where he
remained until Somerville became a city. Wt. Gilman was town clerk of Somerville dur
ing its entire existence as a town, and when it became a city he was elected city clerk,
which position he retained until his death, which occurred at the home of his daughter, Mrs.
tieo. C. Skflton, at Bedford, Mass., Feb. 22, 1888. On the fortieth anniversary of his service
as town and city clerk he was tendered a banquet, Monday evening, January 2, 1882. On
this occasion he was presented with a watch, chain and seal, the presentation speech being
made by ex-Mayor Geo. A. Bruce. Mr. Gilman came to Somerville about 1838, purchasing
a property of several acres and house on Walnut street. Here he resided for 45 years, his
wife and son during that period passing away. In 1883, and untU his death, he made his
home in Somerville and Bedford with his son-in-law, George C. Skilton.
Giroux, Aim^ E., son of Joseph and Cecilia Giroux, was born in the Province of Quebec,
October 6, 1851. He was educated in the celebrated Jacques Cartier Normal School of Mont
real, and in the Lancaster, Mass., High School. In 1881 he embarked in the wholesale milk
business in Boston, handling at that time about forty cans; the business has steadily in
creased since that time, and he is now regarded as one of the largest and most reliable dealers
in this vicinity, his daily sales amounting to about one thousand cans. Mr. Giroux came to
Somerville in 1883, and resided on Columbus avenue two years; he then removed to Rox
bury, and returned to Somerville in 1895. ^^ married Miss Marguerite MacNally of Bos
ton in 1885, and they have two children. They reside at 67 Pearl street.
Glines, Edward, son of Jacob T. and Sarah .-V. (Washburn) Glines, was born in Somer
ville, August 13, 1849. Graduating from the High School in 1869, he entered the fancy gro-

544 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
eery store of IT. T. Parker & Co., of Charlestown, where he remained two or three months.
He then undertook an express business on his own account between Winter HiU and Boston,
carrying it on for two years. In 1872 he went into his father's establishment as a clerk, be
ginning practically at the bottom, and going through every department of the business,
which was in tea, coff'ee and spices, until, finally, after buying an interest in the business, he
succeeded to it when his father retired in 1880. Mr. Glines was married to Frances C,
daughter of Ziba P. and X^ancy L. (Henderson) Hanks, of Augusta, Me. They have no
chUdren. Mr. Glines has always felt an intense interest in poUtics, and has been prominent in
many of the battles that have been fought in this city, and in state and national contests be
sides. He was a member of the Common Council in 1878, was re-elected in 1879 and made
president of that body. In 1881 and 1882 he was elected to the House of Representatives,
and did valuable service oir important committees and in debate. In 1884 he was elected a
member of the State Central Committee, and served for two years both on the executive and
finance committees.
In the fall of 1886 Mr. Glines was nominated for the Senate, and was elected by a large
majority; he served on some of the most important committees, and did important work;
he was re-elected to the Senate in 1887, and was chairman of the railroad committee and of
the committee on Federal relations, etc. .Since his retirement from the .Senate in 1888, ilr.
Glines has not taken a public part in politics, but he has not lost his interest in public af
fairs. He has always been connected with all enterprises to benefit the community, and fore
most in charitable works. He was interested in the formation of the Central Club, of which
he was president in 1894-95; ^^^ ^ member of the Webcowit Club, is a life member of the
Somerville Improvement Society, and is now a member of the Winter Hill Club of this city,
and the Central, Middlesex, New England and Taylor Clubs of Boston. He has held offices
in the Somerville Volunteer Fire Department, in the Odd Fellovi'S and Knights of Honor, and
is a Knight Templar. In addition to his other services to the city he was one term an over
seer of the poor, and as president of the Common Council was ex officio a member of the
School Committee in 1879. He was elected a delegate to the Minneapolis Republican Con
vention, was a presidential elector in 1892, and was a candidate for Congress in that year.
Glines, Jacob T., son of Jacob and Jane Glines, was born in Moultonborough, N. H.,
July 20, 181 7; he removed to Charlestown when a young man, and married, in 1840, Miss
Sarah Washburn, of Kennebunk, Me. Mr. Glines was always identified with the prosperity
of Somervflle as a town and city; he was a member of the last Board of Selectmen; was
chairman of the first Board of Aldermen, and member of the City Government for a number
of years subsequently; he represented Somerville two years in the lower house of the Gen
eral Court; early in life he carried on an extensive brick business, and for many years was a
prominent coffee merchant in Boston; he was a charter member of Bunker HiU Lodge, I.
O. O. F., of Charlestown; he died August 3, 1882. In recognition of his services to the city
the Jacob T. Glines School was named in 1891.
Gookin, Abijah B., son of Thomas Thwing and .Mary (Brown) Gookin, was born at
Watertown, Mass., September 7, 1825. He attended the schools of ^^'atertown until he was
fifteen years of age, and when nineteen he entered the High School of Fitchburg. He em
barked in the provision business October i, 1847, and has since continued in the same line and
in the original location at 370 Commercial street, Boston. He moved to SomervUle in 1873,
and still resides in the house that he purchased at that time. Mr. Gookin has been twice
married, his first wife being Miss Sarah F. Monroe of Cambridgeport, and his second Miss
Louisa M. Loring of Boston. He has served the city one year in the Common Council and
two years in the Board of Aldermen. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and of
the Fruit and Produce Exchange of Boston. He is also a member of the St. John's Lodge,
F. A. A. M. Mr. Gookin is a deacon in the Union-square Baptist Church, and has been very
earnest in his efforts to promote its welfare. His residence is at 15 Grand ATew avenue.

EDWARD Glines.

Residence of Hon. Edward Glines, 129 Highland Ave.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 547
Gordon, Emma J., was born in Boston, but her early childhood was passed in Lynn,
where her people still reside. She was educated in the public schools of that city, and at
tended the Salem Normal School with the intention of becoming a teacher in the public
schools. Her inclinations, however, led her to choose another profession for her life's work,
and in 1884 she entered the Training .School for X'urses at the City Hospital, Boston. She
applied herself with great zeal, graduated in two years, and for six months after was the head
nurse of one of the wards. She then took up the work of a district nurse, and among the
poor of the "North End" of Boston gained much valuable knowledge. Later she was
a private nurse, fiUing the important position in very many critical cases where unremitting
attentions were absolutely necessary to ensure the patient's recovery. For two and a half
years, just previous to being called to take charge of the Somerville Hospital, she was matron
of the Sunny Bank Home for Convalescents in Watertown. When the Somerville Hospital
was established in 1893, Miss Gordon was selected as one eminently qualified to fill the im
portant position of matron, and the confidence that was felt in her abiUty to fill that post has
been fully confirmed by her three years' service ; in fact, much of the success that has attended
the institution has been due to her able management. Increased responsibilities that have
come upon her with the gradual increase of the number of inmates, and the corresponding
increase in the expenditures and in the enlarged corps of nurses, have been met with firmness
and rare good judgment, and the fidelity to the interests of the hospital that she has at all
times displayed, have been acknowledged by every one. Miss Gordon is often invited to de
liver lectures on hospital work, but is compelled to decline them on account of the pressure
of her duties in our city institutions; at home, however, she has given on several occasions
informal talks before societies whose sympathies are enlisted in the hospital's behalf, and her
words of advice and instruction have been of great value to the cause in which she is so in
tensely interested.
Gould, Aaron H., son of John Gould, was born in Cum'oerland County, X'^ova .Scotia,
January 15, 1865. He attended the public school of the town and learned the carpenter's
trade. About 1884 he was persuaded by his uncle, of Ellsworth, Me., to locate there, and in
charge of a force of fifty men he rebuilt for him the Hancock I louse. Later he planned and
built a costly residence for H. B. Mason, mayor of the city, and other important buildings
for many well-known citizens; the Swiss Shallia, Manor Inn, and many beautiful residences
at Sullivan, Me., the growing summer resort managed by a company of w-hich the late ex-
Governor .A.. H. Rice of Massachusetts was president. Passing about four years in the then
booming sections of the South, Mr. Gould had many contracts for the erection of manufactur
ing-buildings, residences, etc., in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Fort Payne, Pell City, and other places
— one an important business-block for Hon. John Maxwell of Winchester, Mass., another a
savings-bank building for Col. J. W. Spaulding of Boston.
Since his return from the South he has planned the Drouet Apartment Hotel, the H.
W. P. Colson Apartment Hotel, City Stables and Central Fire Station, all in Somerville; the
AA'ard 5 Engine-house and Ward i Schoolhouse, Cambridge, the latter costing $40,000.
Plans for the addition made this year to the GUnes schoolhouse, SomerviUe, were prepared
by him, also for a new engine-house in Dedham, Mass. His work has been of such a char
acter as necessarily to come under the observation of such men as ex-Mayor Hodgkins,
Wm. H. Gray, superintendent of buildings, Cambridge, Hon. E. P. Cook, Portland, Me.,
Hon. Hannibal Hamlin, Ellsworth, Me., and others equally well known. Mr. Gould is a
man who by careful attention to what he has undertaken has been able to accomplish re
sults that speak more forcibly than words of his abilities in his chosen vocation. His Bos
ton office is at 42 Court street, and his studio is at his residence, corner of Columbus and
Stone avenues, Somerville.
Gray, Rev. Andre-w, A.M., D.D., was born at Sussex, N. B. After the usual course

Residence of Aaron H. Gould, Columbus and Stone Avenues.

Residence of Charles A. Grimmons, 72 Thurston Street.

Jaazaniah Gross.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 551
of study in the schools at home, he became a scholar in the St. John Model School, and later
pursued his studies at SackvUle, X. B., at Windsor, N. S., and at the Boston School of Lan
guages. He was ordained both deacon and priest by the Right Reverend Dr. Binney, late
Lord Bishop of Nova Scotia, and spent the first three years of his ministry at Liverpool, X'.
S., as curate to the late Rev. Dr. Xichols. Pie then accepted a unanimous election to the
rectorship of the adjoining parish of Port Medway, where he remained for five years.
His first charge in this diocese was the Episcopal City Mission of Boston, of which he
was head from 1876 to 1879, and in which he was the successor of the late Rev. Dr. E. M.
P. Wells of blessed memory. The Mission had suffered much by the " Great Fire " of 1872,
both by the destruction of St. .Stephen's Church and Mission House, and by the breaking up
and disorganization of its work. During Mr. Gray's incumbency the work was reorganized,
a house for a headquarters was purchased, and Grace Church, South Boston, was built.
In 1880 he accepted the rectorship of St. Luke's Church, Chelsea, which he held for
seven years. Here, too, he did an excellent work. The church building was repaired and
improved at a considerable expense, and many articles of furniture, etc., including a church
bell, were provided.
After resigning .St. Luke's, Dr. Gray traveled extensively abroad, and gathered mate
rials for a forthcoming work on " The Origin and Early History of Christianity in Britain.''
After his return from Europe he gave much attention to literary work, lectures, etc., and
doing ministerial duty on Sundays. During this time he took charge of " Christ (Episcopal)
Mission," Wellesley, then in the feebleness of its infancy. For eighteen months it continued
under his care, during which time it developed into the present .St. Andrew's Parish.
He is the author of a number of pamphlets and of one or two bound volumes, all of them
on subjects connected with his profession. Some of these have reached a second or third
edition. He has also been a frequent contributor to both religious and secular papers. St.
Stephen's College, Annandale, N. Y., conferred the degree of '• D. D." upon him Honoris
Causa in 1894, in recognition of his literary labors and of the service he had thereby rendered
to the church. In December, 1895, he was elected to the rectorship of St. Thomas' Church,
in succession to the late P'ather Durell. He accepted the election, and at once entered on
his work with earnestness and zeal.
Grimmons, Charles A., son of Charles and Cordelia (Covell) Grimmons, was born in
Middleton, Conn., January 19, 1859. He was educated in the public schools of Boston, graduat
ing from the English High School in the class of 1876. He began his business life as book
keeper for Pitkin Bros., and after fifteen years' service he succeeded them with Edward F.
Grimmons and William T. Hight, under the firm name of The Boston Furniture Supply Co.,
of which Charles A. is the senior partner. They do an extensive business as importers, manu
facturers and jobbers in hardware and supplies for the cabinet, drapery and upholstery trades
at 102 Union street, Boston, their trade extending throughout this country and Canada. Mr.
Grimmons was married June I, 1887, to Katie M. Aldrich, and they have one son; they re
side at 72 Thurston street. Mr. Grimmons is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., of the
Central Club of SomervUle, and of the 999th ArtUlery .-Vssociation of Charlestown.
Gross, Jaazaniah, son of Isaac S. and Betsy Gross, was born at Truro, Mass., Aprils,
1824. He removed in 1840 to Boston, and went to work in the provision store of George
Carlisle, 241 X'orth street, with whom he remained a year, and then went to work for a Mr.
Humphrey in Quincy .Market. When nineteen he went into the boot and shoe business for
himself, and started with the meagre sum of Si 50, which he borrowed of his father. Some
idea of his persistency and perseverance can be formed by the statement that the youth did
a business the first year amounting to $14,000, and in the thirteen years he was alone he
saved $45,000. He then took in two Blanchard brothers, but the concern was dissolved in
two years to protect Mr. Gross' interests. He then went to work in his father's provision

Emma Prichard Hadley.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT. 553
stall in Quincy Market, and when his father died, in 1873, he assumed charge of the business,
which he continued untfl 1895, when he sold out and retired.
In 1850 Mr. Gross married Harriet Augusta, daughter of Foster Clark of Walpole, N.
IL, and about three years later he built the house at the corner of Perkins and Mt. Vernon
streets. They had three daughters: Mary, who married Charles B. Stockwell of Port Huron,
Mich.; Laura C, now Mrs. C. M. Shove of Fall River; and Harriet Augusta, who resides at
the old homestead. Mrs. Gross died in 1874.
Mr. Gross is a member of the Masons, Royal Arcanum, Knights of Honor, and Boston
Chamber of Commerce.
Guild, Charles H., w-as born at Roxbury, June II, 1825, the son of Chester and Har
riet (Fiske) Guild. He received his education in the public schools of Roxbury, supple
mented by a course at Chauncey Hall School in Boston. He followed the occupation of his
father, having obtained a thorough practical knowledge of the leather business. In this he
continued many years. He became a resident of Somerville soon after its incorporation as
a separate municipality, and served the town in various public capacities, having been a mem
ber of the Board of Selectmen and School Committee, president of the Board of Trustees of the
Public Library, and he was three times elected to the Legislature. He held other positions of
trust and responsibility. In all public, religious, educational and patriotic movements he
was a zealous worker and supporter. Mr. Guild married, November 21, 1848, Margaret Jane,
daughter of William and Abigail (Eaton) Fox of Woburn. For the past nine years he re
sided at X^^ewton Flighlands. His death occurred November 17, 1896.
Guild, Chester, son of X^athaniel and Rebecca (Hart) Guild, was born in Walpole,
April 9, 1791. When fourteen years of age he went to Roxbury and entered his brother's
leather manufactory, and in 1812 went into business on his own account. He married Har
riet Fiske of Boston, June 13, 1822. In 1845 ^^ purchased a large tannery in Charlestown,
and shortly afterward removed to Somerville. Mr, Guild was a member of the Board of
Selectmen of .Somerville, and had represented the town in the General Court. He was a char
ter member of Washington Lodge, F. A. A. i\I., of Roxbury, and of John Abbot Lodge, of
Somerville. He died March 7, 1869.
Hadley, Emma Prichard. Somervflle is proud of the part that woman has had in
making history for the growing city. Much of its success, even from the setting off from
Charlestown, when the wives and daughters and sisters urged independence, has come from
woman's influence. Other pens have exalted her in the various avenues in which she has
labored and won, but outside of the ordinary praise w-hich should be accorded there is still
another scope to be alluded to, and which is finely represented by the lady whose name
heads this sketch.
Mrs. Hadley is the daughter of John P. and Elizabeth A. Prichard, whose ancestor
helped make a teapot of Boston Plarbor. She was born in Charlestown, but moved to
Somerville when a year old, and received her education in its schools, graduating at the High
School in 1875. Immediately thereafter she taught as a substitute here, and in 1879 was
married to Walter M. Hadley, son of George W. Hadley, one of the original settlers of the
town. As early as four years of age she showed marked signs of abUity in elocution, and it
can be said of her that she is the first public lady reader in SomerviUe. From that time
until the present she has taken high rank among the readers of the State, and is one of the
most versatile artists on the public platform. Thousands have heard her only to praise her,
and she has the fuUest commendation of the ablest judges and literary personages in our
city and elsewhere.
In 1895 ^^^ ^^'^^ '^^ '^"^-^ judge with four eminent gentlemen at the Goddard prize
reading at Tufts College. In charitable and philanthropic work Mrs. Hadley has been most
generous, as many churches, the hospital, and organizations can well attest. Her annual
recitals are occasions looked forward to with great interest, and are signally successful.

John Haigh.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST .4ND PRESENT. 555
Mrs. Hadley's pen is not an idle one, and many papers on various subjects have come
from her pen and brain. Of this line of work she is also very fond. She finds time from that
devoted to her many pupils to give society the benefit and pleasure of her association, and
her name is enroUed as a member of the Somerville Shakespeare Society, the Heptorean
and Hillside Clubs. .She is a highly esteemed member of the First Universalist Church.
Eleven years ago Mr. and Mrs. Hadley. moved into their new- and cozy-like home at
the corner of Hathon and Arlington streets, where they now reside.
Hadley, George W., son of Benjamin and Martha (Ireland) Hadley, was born in
Charlestown (now Somerville) in 1826, and was engaged in the wood and coal business on
Charlestown Neck for twenty years. He was on the Board of Selectmen of the town of
Somerville for four years during the war, and after the town was incorporated as a city he
was elected to the Board of Aldermen. Mr. Hadley served fifteen years as principal
assessor. He married Elizabeth Moore, daughter of Hugh Tannant Moore, in 1852. They have
one son, Walter M. Hadley, who succeeded his father in the coal business.
Hadley, S. Henry, was born in Boston, X'ovember 22, 1844, the son of Samuel D. and
Mary (Oliver) Hadley, of that city. His education w-as obtained at the Lyman and Chap
man Schools, Boston, and the Prescott and High Schools of Somerville, where he moved in
1853. He graduated from the High School in 1862 with the first class that received diplo
mas. There were six in the class. Mr. Hadley w-as instructed in music by his father, who
enjoyed an eminent reputation; and in his fifteenth year was organist at a Medford church.
For eleven years he was organist at the Winthrop Church, Charlestown, and has served in
the same capacity in several of the larger churches of SomerviUe. He has held many posi
tions as conductor of musical societies, — notably at the Peace Jubilee in 1870, and has
otherwise been connected with musical organizations. In 1868 he became teacher of mu
sic in the Somerville High School, and soon after in the grammar schools, which position he
still retains. He has taught music in the public schools of Everett, Reading, Weston, for
eight years in Medford, and for eleven years in Watertown. His success as a teacher is shown
by the remarkable progress made in singing in the Somerville schools during the last quarter
of a century. He has a practical knowledge of all the musical instruments, having played
more or less upon nearly all of them. He has had charge of the Memorial-day music in
SomerviUe for the past twenty years, and thus in another way his success and abiUty as a
teacher and conductor has been demonstrated. Mr. Hadley married, October 28, 1869, Miss
Martha T. Conant, daughter of Ezra D. and Betsey (Skeele) Conant, of Somerville. They
reside at 46 Pearl street, and have two sons, Henry K. Hadley and Arthur D. Hadley. Both
of the sons are talented musicians, the former, though only twenty-one years of age, having
the pecuHar gift of his father, of composing and arranging music for the orchestra.
Haigh, John, son of George and Hannah (Parkinson) Haigh, was born in Dukinfield,
Cheshire, England, December 3 1 , 1 832. His education w-as obtained in that town, and when he
was seventeen years of age he was apprenticed to the trade of calico printer, which trade
was the foundation of his success. He came to America in 1855, and early in 1856 became
engaged with the Pacific Mills at Lawrence. After eighteen years of service with that firm
he severed his connection -with it, and took charge of the printing department of the Mid
dlesex Bleachery and Dye Works, of which he subsequently became half owner. April 12^
1859, Mr. Haigh was married in Perkins, Me., to Lucy Jane, daughter of Captain Bedford D.
and Jane Bowker Tallman. He was always associated with the Methodist Episcopal Church,
and was ever liberal in church contributions. He was an enthusiastic member and worthy
exemplar of the Masonic fraternity, which he joined in Lawrence in 1859. He has held
nearly every position in the order. In the Grand Chapter he passed through the oftice of
district deputy, grand high priest, and deputy grand high priest. For several years he was

George W. Hadley.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 557
illustrious grand master of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters. In 1883 he was
elected grand conductor of the General Grand Council, Royal and Select ^Masters of the
United States, for three years. He was also past most puissant sovereign grand commander
of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite. He had a private library which was, perhaps, the
richest in choice Masonic literature of any in X^ew England, and he acquired no small fame
as a collector, his cabinets containing many rare coins, medals and articles of vertu of all
sorts that are characteristic of the inteUigent study of the collector. He was intensely inter
ested in historical research, and was a member of the Massachusetts Society, the Society of
Odd Volumes, and other organizations devoted to such matters. Mr. Haigh was respected
and beloved by all the residents of Somerville, and his death, which occurred August 20, 1896,
was regarded as a public bereavement.
Hall, William Franklin, though a native of Charlestown, has resided in Somerville
for a score of years. He was chosen a member of the Mystic Water Board of Somerville
for a term of three years, from January I, 1894. His business is that of professional account
ant, in which he has become widely know-n.
Hanscom, Dr. Sanford, son of James and Mary (Frost) Hanscom, was born in Albion,
Me., January 28, 1841. He was prepared for coUege at the WaterviUe (Me.) Classical In
stitute, and entered Colby University in 1863, but left college in his sophomore year to enter
the Union Army. His Alma Mater, however, in 1885 conferred upon him the degree of A. M.
He was first lieutenant of the Eighth Unassigned Company of Maine Volunteers, which,
when ready for service, was assigned to the Eleventh Maine Infantry, then in the Twenty-
fourth Army Corps, Army of the James. Soon after this assignment he was commissioned
adjutant of the regiment. It was in active service around Richmond and Petersburg in the
• spring of 1865, until the surrender of those cities. Its last engagement was at .\ppomattox
Court-house the morning of the day of Cieneral Lee's surrender. In 1868 Dr. Hanscom was
graduated from the Plarvard Medical School, and in the spring of 1869 commenced practice
in Somerville, where he hassince resided. He is now serving his fifteenth year on the .Somer
ville School Board, and has served six years as trustee of the Public Library. For a period of
twelve years he has been State Medical Examiner for the Royal Arcanum in Massachusetts,
which positionhe resigned in July, 1896, to accept the office of Medical Examiner-in-Chief of
the same order. He is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, and belongs to the
Grand Army of the Republic and the Massachusetts Commandery of the Military Order of the
Loyal Legion, and is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M. He was married, October 26,
1874, to Miss Beulah A. Hill, daughter of Cyrus and Cynthia (.Moure) Hill; they have one
daughter. Aline Louisa Hanscom. The new schoolhouse on the corner of Webster and Rush
streets was in 1896 named the Hanscom School, in recognition of his valuable services on
the School Board.
Hartshorn, Edward, M. D., son of Rev. Levi and Hannah (Elliott) Hartshorn, was
born in Gloucester, ilass., June 28, 1817. He "read medicine" after the custom of the
times, w-ith Dr. Rendall Davis of Reading and Dr. M. Spaulding of South Reading, attended
lectures at the Dartmouth Medical Department, but graduated after a full course at the Har
vard Medical School in 1S40, locating in practice in Berlin, Mass., the same year. In 1841,
May 13, he married Lucy Elizabeth Howe, daughter of Solomon and Sarah How-e of Berlin.
'Their only children have been Edward Howe and William Henry, the former dying ten
years ago. After several years of successful practice his health demanded a change, and he
commenced the manufacture of medicines and cooking extracts, which are now in general use,
in about sixty different varieties. He took his sons into copartnership as they reached their
majority. He removed his business to Boston about thirty years ago, taking up his home at
87 Munroe street, in Somerville, where he has since resided with his surviving son and
family.

Edward Hartshorn, M.D.

Frank S. Hartshorn.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 56 1
In 1878 he became interested in the United Order of the Golden Cross, and relin
quished his business to his sons (now carried on by W. H. Hartshorn), and devoted much
energy and time to its interest. In this order he has been honored with the highest official
rank, having been Grand Commander of this State, a representative to and a permanent
member of the supreme body, and is accredited with great success. In 1880 he established
the "Golden Cross Journal," and he still edits and manages this influential paper of exten
sive circulation. In church matters he has been very active, having been superintendent of
the Sabbath School in Berlin several years, and also of the Prospect Hill Sunday-school,
in connection with the church of the same name, -which he was largely instrumental in
forming. He was one of the first deacons of the Day-street Congregational Church, and has
held that office in the Prospect Hill Church from its origin. His faithful wife, to whom he
attributes largely his success in life, celebrated with him recently the fifty-fifth anniversary of
their marriage.
Hartshorn, Frank S., son of Francis G. and Aroline .\. (Saunders) Hartshorn, was
born in Charlestown, Mass., Feb. 13, 1846. His father moving to Somerville with his family
in 1852, Mr. Hartshorn received his education in the schools of that city, and was graduated
from the Somerville High School in the first class to receive diplomas in 1862. He w-as for
several years in mercantile life, and later in the dramatic profession. For fifteen years he
has been connected with prominent hotels, having been for nine years in the Old Tremont
House, Boston. He was for three consecutive years W. M. of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.,
of Somerville, and is a member of a council of the Home Circle. Mr. Hartshorn married
Ellen L., daughter of Cyrus F. Crosby of Somerville, and their children are Horace C, of
New Orleans and Florence S. Hartshorn. He has resided in Somerville for forty-four years,
excepting a short time in Watertown, and in Memphis. His present residence is at 96 Glen
street. Haven, Mrs. Clara P., who for three years has been president of the Daughters of
Maine Club, was born at West Gardiner, Me., and taught for some six years in different
sections of the State, filling with distinguished success positions in all grades in the schools.
Her marriage with Mr. George D. Haven brought her to this city, where she has ex
erted a wide and powerful influence in her church and social life. An active member of the
First Universalist Church, Mrs. Haven has devoted herself to the Sunday-school and to all
matters pertaining to the parish, in all this, neglecting no portion of her home or social duty
Under her direction the Daughters of Maine have made a splendid showing, and are gain
ing in influence every day. Mrs. Haven possesses unbounded faith in women to accom
plish grand results from earnest effort, and this faith has been justified by good works.
Mrs. Haven has -a. most winning personality, is eminently practical, thoroughly in touch
with the progressive spirit that animates this period, and is an ideal home-maker. Looking
forward always to higher perfection in the club work, maintaining the highest standard
possible, bringing enthusiasm and refined tastes into all she has undertaken, the club mem.
bers have only been satisfied with the best results. Mrs. Haven is a member of the
Heptorean Club, doing her full share in the work of that notable organization, and her
full and busy and useful life is an example of what wide influence may be felt from one
active and refined personality.
Hayden, Joseph Orlin, treasurer of Middlesex County, was born in Blandford, Mass.,
July 8, 1847, the youngest son of Elizur B. and Lucinda (Simmons) Hayden. His father
was a well-known schoolmaster for many years, and later in life became a prosperous farmer.
In early life Mr. Hayden attended the district school in Blandford, and from there went to
the Granville Academy and the High School in Chicopee. At the age of seventeen he went
West, and became a clerk in a law, real estate, and insurance establishment in Minneapolis.
At the end of two years he bought an interest in a newspaper in that city, and soon after be-

562 SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST .IND PRESENT.
came the manager. Mr. Hayden came to .SomerviUe in 1868, and entered the establishment
of Emerson Leland & Co., of Arch street, as bookkeeper; after one year's service with the
firm he resigned to become the treasurer and office manager of the Boston Daily and Sunday
" Times." In 1876 Mr. Hayden severed his connection with this paper to assume control of the
Somerville " Journal," and for the past twenty years it has been under his personal guidance.
Of late years but little of his time has been devoted to his newspaper, for in 1886 he was
unanimously elected treasurer of Middlesex County, which office he has held ever since. In
1882 he was elected a member of the Somerville Myslic Water Board, and served as its presi
dent until he resigned, in 1890. During his term of office the much -needed high-water ser
vice was put in operation. Mr. Hayden is the president of the SomerviUe National Bank,
a trustee of the SomerviUe Savings Bank, and also a trustee of the SomerviUe Hospital Asso
ciation. In newspaper circles his wise judgment and conservative methods are always in
demand. He is now the president of the Suburban Press Association, which has a member
ship of nearly two hundred publishers and editors of the leading New England papers, and
is also treasurer of the Massachusetts Republican Editorial Association. Mr. Hayden is a
member of John Abbot Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, Somerville Royal Arch Chap
ter, and of Orient Council. As a county treasurer he is considered one of the best in the
State, his system of bookkeeping and sets of books having been copied by other county offi
cials and approved by experts ; as a newspaper manager he has few equals, and as a conserva
tive, careful business-man he stands in the front rank. In all the progressive, beneficial
movements of the city Mr. Hayden has always taken a leading part, both personally and
with the great power of his paper.
In 1870 Mr. Hayden was married to Mary Elizabeth Pond of Somerville. They re
side at 42 Spring street.
Hayes, John S. Mr. Hayes has been a living force in Somerville. He came to this
city to assume the duties of principal of the Forster Grammar School, and held that position
from 1878-93, a period of fifteen years. In that half a generation of years how many chil
dren and youths have had the imprint of his personality ! As a teacher he was devoted to
his profession, and held in honorable esteem by his associates. He has been president of
the Middlesex County Teachers' Association ; has read two admirable papers before its con
ventions, and also before other teachers' conventions. He was founder of the very popular
Hillside Club, now sixteen years old, and its second president, and has served two terms as
president since then. Nearly every year he has read a paper before the club; and furnished
to the local press, and read before historical societies, c. g. in Dedham, Harvard, etc., essays
and lectures of local and general value. Some of these have been : " Myths of the Revolu
tion"; "Address on Laying the Corner-stone of the Winter Hill Congregational Church";
" Address at the Twentieth Anniversary of Coeur de Lion Commandery, Knights Templar ' ;
.•\ History of That Commandery; "A History of the Public Library"; "Annual Reports
of the Library," which have been of such merit that they have been called for in all'parts of
the country. At the time of the semi-oentennial celebration he took an active part from the first :
served on important committees; was chairman of the Historical Committee; and on the day
of the parade acted as commander of the Sixth Division. It was fitting he should have the
last position, since he came of military parentage. His grandfather was a soldier of the Rev
olution, and his father a soldier of the War of 1812. His active interest in aU pubhc affairs
has been noticeable. He has been president of the SomerviUe Improvement Society. He
was a member of the committee that marked the historic spots of Somerville. He is at
present a member of the City Charter Commission. It may be said, in this connection, that
he has written and published many able articles on the ancient and contemporary history of
the city. In attending to matters of outside interest he has never neglected those wdiich

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 563
seem to pertain more immediately to his own literary associations. He has a large private
library of carefully selected books which have a marked value in wellnigh every depart
ment of literature. Occupying as he now does, and has for three years, the responsible posi
tion of librarian of the Public Library, he has been able to supplement its resources quite
frequently by drawing upon those of his own library.
Besides the Hillside Club, he is a member of the Twentieth Century Club, the Massa
chusetts Library Club, and of the American Library Association. His interest in Masonry
has been prominent. He is a charter member of Soley Lodge, Past High Priest in Somer
ville R. A. Chapter, was active in founding, and is a charter member of Orient Council R. and
.S. Masters, and was its first Thrice Illustrious Master; is Prelate of Coeur de Lion Com
mandery, Knights Templar, and a member of the iSIassachusetls Consistory. He has also
been for years affiliated with the Royal Arcanum. He has been Regent of Excelsior Coun
cil, has served on important committees of the Grand Council, was for seven years on its
P'inance Committee, and has been six years Grand Treasurer, and holds that office to-day.
These are skeleton facts, but a clean, vigorous, and helpful life has been built in and
around them. Life is more than what it feeds on; more than what it does. Better than
seeing, is vision ; better than what a man accomplishes is the man himself.
Hazeltine, Channing, was born in Strafford, Vt., October 9, 1844, of old X'^ew England
pre-revolutionary stock. After acquiring such education as the schools of his native village
afforded, he entered his father's tannery to learn the tanner's and currier's trades. At the
age of 22 he went to Plainfield, Vt., where, having married, he embarked in the tanning
business. At the age of 24 years he represented his adopted town in the Vermont Legislature,
soon after adding two more tanneries to his business; he also became largely engaged in
lumbering, farming, brickmaking and building. In 1881 he came to Somerville, and soon
after entered the real estate business on Devonshire street. He stiU retains his residence
in SomerviUe. Henderson, Franklin, was born in Newbury, Vt., August 27, 181S. In 1839, at
the age of twenty-one, he came to Somerville — then a part of Charlestown — and engaged
as a farmer with Mr. Samuel T. Frost, who lived on Milk Row, now Somerville avenue. In
1844-1848, he served the town as Superintendent of Streets, after which for sixteen years he
was in the employ of the Lowell Railroad as track-layer. During the war he returned to the
city service on the streets, and remained twelve years in that employment, and subsequently
engaged in the milk business in which he still continues to be interested. In 1849 Mr.
Henderson married Caroline E. Tufts, of .SomerviUe, and in the same year buUt his present
residence on Central street. He has one daughter, Mrs. E. B. Vreeland.
Herbert, John, is the son of an old and prominent X'ew Hampshire lawyer. He was
born at Wentworth, N. H., November 2, 1849, but most of his bo)hood was spent at Rum-
ney, X. H. At the early age of twelve years his parents moved to Boston. He graduated
at the head of his class from both the Mayhew Grammar School and the English High
.School, and shortly afterwards entered Dartmouth College, where he graduated with honor
in 1871. After his graduation he was elected principal of Appleton Academy, New Ips
wich, X'. H., which position he held for several years. He then resigned, and studied law
with his father in Rumney, and was admitted to the Bar in X'ew Hampshire in 1875. I"
1878 he started upon a foreign trip, and spent a year in travel through Europe and the East.
Soon after his return he came to SomerviUe, and began the practice of law in Boston. Mr.
Herbert is a member of the Boston Bar Association, and has been admitted to practice in
the Supreme Court of the United Slates. He is President of the Appleton Academy Asso
ciation, — which has in its membership persons from nearly every city in the Union, including
many of note, — President of the Somerville Congregational Union, ex-President of the Mystic
Valley Club, ex-President of the Congregational Sunday-school Union, ex-Vice-President of

New Residences on Highland Ave., near Somerville Highlands Station, erected by C. Hazeltine.

Solomon S. Higgins.

Sl%%J.s$l^^^^

¦^

Col. Herbert E. Hill.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 567
the Appalachian Mountain Club, and a prominent member of the Congregational Club. He
took an active part in the organization of the Municipal League of SomerviUe, and was
elected its first President. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, and of De Molay
Commandery. He was one of the original founders of the "Somerville Citizen," and is now
President of the Somerville Citizen Company. He is also a member of the Massachusetts
Press Association. Mr. Herbert has a large and lucrative practice; and he gives extensively
of his time, strength and means to many good causes.
Higgins, Solomon S., was born June 4, 1845, the son of Solomon and Olive Sparrow
Higgins. He went on sea-voyages early in life, and subsequently went into the provision
business in Boston, where he has been engaged over twenty-five years. He came to Somer
vflle, and finally purchased the George 0. Brastow mansion on Spring Hill. He is one of the
largest real estate dealers in Somerville, a great part of which property he has extensively
developed. He was a member of the Common Council in 1889 and 1890, and is an earnest
worker in the Republican Ward and City Committee. Mr. Higgins takes a great deal of in
terest in the G. A. R., and is amember of W. C. Kinsley Post 139, and has served on the staffs
of Gen. Weisart and Capt. J. G. B. Adams, commanders of the X'ational Department. He
married, for his first wife, Julia L. Nickerson of Harwich, Mass., Avho died in 1875, and by
whom he had four children, a son surviving and being in business with his father. In 1S78
Mr. Higgins married Abbie E. Lakin. He is a member of the Red Men, Sons of the Revo
lution, Central and Whitney Clubs. He had a great-grandfather who had four commissions
in the revolutionary period. At the celebration of the semi-centennial in 1892 Mr. Higgins
w^as inspector-general on the staff of General Wentworth. His voice is often heard in
Memorial Day orations.
Hill, Col. Herbert E. Prominent among the veterans of the war who took a great
deal of interest in Somerville affairs was Col. Herbert E. HiU. He was the son of
Enos and Sarah (Randall) Hill, and was born in Boston, December 18, 1845. His father
removed to Vermont, and the son received his education in the grammar and high schools of
that State. Fired by patriotism inherited from his .ancestry, he enlisted, at the age of
eighteen, in the Eighth Vermont Volunteers, serving in every battle and skirmish in w-hich
the regiment was engaged until and through the renowned campaign of Sheridan in the
Shenandoah Valley. He was then assigned to duty in Washington, and had a part in the
search for the assassin of Abraham Lincoln.
A most honorable record for meritorious conduct caused him to be promoted, and at
the close of the war he went to Boston, and four years after removed to SomerviUe. Gov
ernor Rice commissioned him captain and senior aid-de-camp on the staff of Gen. Hobart
Moore, and subsequently Gov. Talbot made him an assistant adjutant-general on his staff,
with the rank of colonel. Col. Hill was successor to Col. King as commander of Willard
C. Kinsley Post 139, and for four years thereafter was a department officer G. A. R., serving
in the council of administration as vice-commander of the department, and subsequently
vice-commander in chief of the National Department. Col. Hill was for many years con
nected with the firm of HiU and Cutler, doing a large business in the North and South.
One of the important traits in the character of Col. Hill was his love for historic spots,
and through his efforts the memorial battery on Central Hill marks revolutionary ground.
The marble shaft on the Winchester, Va., battlefield, and monument on the battle-ground
of Cedar Creek stand as tributes of his generosity, devotion and good feeling. The Vermont
Legislature, on November 2, 1866, adopted resolutions thanking him for his noble work in
marking sacred spots. As a historian Col. HUl was also able and accurate, many articles
being left behind him to attest to his knowledge of the scenes he so finely portrayed.
In 1880, in the middle of what maybe called his political career, he was chosen as
messenger to bear the electoral vote of Massachusetts to Washington for Garfield and

568 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Arthur. He represented SomerviUe at the centennial celebration at Lexington and Concord,
April 19, 1875. He also held other places of prominence, and for three years was secretary
of the famous Middlesex Club. Col. Hill served the city as a member of the Water Board,
and was also one of the overseers of the poor, and one of the board of managers of the
Perkins Institution for the Blind, in Boston. He was for a long time a deacon in the East
Somerville Baptist Church, in which he took great interest. He was a member of Soley
Lodge and other fraternal organizations.
Col. Hill w-as married to Emma O., daughter of Richard and Sarah J. (Wheelwright)
Rich. One son, Herbert Pierce Hill, was born to them, and is now engaged in mercan
tile business in Boston. Col. Hill died at his home in Somerville, April 8, 1892, after a
long and suffering illness. Soon after his decease his widow erected the beautiful home
at the corner of Pearl and Mt. Vernon streets. On the 27th day of June, 1896, she died
very suddenly of heart failure, leaving very many dear friends to mourn her loss. The
son continues to occupy the home, and is fast following his parents in the esteem of the
community. Hill, 'William Pomfrey, was born in Boston, February 5, 1845, the son of Converse
and Dorothea Washington (Garner) Hill. He graduated from the Brimmer School, Boston,
and at once entered into business. His first venture for himself was in December, 1877, when
he established the firm of HiU and Langtry — saddlery and harness. The firm dissolved in
May, 1892, Mr. Hill continuing the business under the firm style of Hill and Hill. The
house is now the leading one in its line in New England. He served the city as a member of
the Council three years, and as a member of the School Board six years, — is secretary of the
X'ew England .Saddlery Dealers' Association, a member of Somerville Chapter, Royal Arch
Masons, and De Molay Commandery, Knights Templar.
Hodgkins, Frank E., the son of William and Abigail (Gibbs) Hodgkins, was born
in Charlestown, March 3, 1849. He was educated in the public schools of his native city,
and then entered upon a commercial life. In 1878 he became cashier of the Boston
Lead Manufacturing Company, and there remains. Mr. Hodgkins came to Somerville
in 1864. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., SomerviUe Chapter, R. A. M.,
Orient Council, R. and S. M., De Molay Commandery, K. T., Unity Council, R. A., of which
he is a P. R., and is treasurer of the SomervUle Y. M. C. A. Mr. Hodgkins married Miss
Eveline F. Gulliver, daughter of Lemuel and Emeline G. (Whiting) Gulliver, of Somerville.
They reside on Broadway.
Hodgkins, William H., was born in Charlestown, June 9, 1840, the son of William
and Abigail (Gibbs) Hodgkins. His education was obtained in the Harvard Grammar and
the Charlestown High .School. On leaving school he learned the business of a merchant,
in the southern shipping and commission trade, on State street. In July, 1862, he enlisted
in Company B, Thirty-sixth Regiment, Massachussetts Volunteers, was promoted second
lieutenant, first lieutenant, adjutant and captain. In 1865 he was brevetted major. After
the war Major Hodgkins came to Somerville, and entered the service of the city of Boston,
in the Department of Public Institutions, where he served as clerk of the board for twenty-
one years. He is now trustee of the estate of the late J. Putnam Bradlee. Major Hodgkins
served the city in the Common Council of 1873 and 1874, the last year as president. In
December, 1891, he was elected mayor of the city, which position he occupied four years.
Major Hodgkins is a member of W. C. Kinsley Post, G. A. R., of the Loyal Legion,
and was five years president of the Somerville Y. M. C. A. He is the author of the
"History of the Thirty-sixth Regiment" and "The Battle of Fort Stedman." Major
Hodgkins married Miss ,S. Augusta Hayward, daughter of Ebenezer and Sarah (Lane)
Hayward, of Boston. They reside on Central street.

SOMERVILLE, P.IST AND PRESENT. 569
Holland, Silas Harvey, was born in Boston in 1814, the son of Samuel and Martha
(Rogers) Holland. His father was an English sea captain, and was lost at sea. The
greater part of the young man's early life was spent in the towns of Marlboro and North-
boro, where, in the latter tow-n, he learned the carriage-maker's trade. He went to Cam
bridge in 1835, and after working at his trade a few years he engaged in the railroad-car
business, which he followed for fifteen years, until his health failed him, when he sold out
his interest in the business. He married Miss Sarah S. Locke, daughter of Major Jonathan
and Mary (Tufts) Locke, of Lancaster. Mr. Holland came to Somervflle in 1856, and
bought the farm owned by Thomas Teele, on Broadway, where he engaged in market-gar
dening and fruit-raising for thirty-fi-ie years. He has also been a dealer in real estate in this
city and Cambridge. He served on the Board of Selectmen for the town of Somerville four
years, and at the present time is one of the trustees of the Somerville Savings Bank.
Holt, Samuel W., son of Reuben, Jr., and Sibel (Piper) Holt, was born in Landgrove,
Vt., October 23, 1827. His education was obtained in the district schools of that town, and
in 1845 he came to Boston and obtained employment in the grocery business; in this he
remained a few months, and then learned the trade of paper-hanging, which calling he fol
lowed two or three years, he then entered the teaming business, and soon purchased the in
terest of a retiring member of the firm of Page, Noyes & Co., now I'ifield, Richardson & Co.,
continuing in the firm until he retired in September, 1895.
Mr. Holt was a member of the Boston Volunteer Fire Department nine years, and was
a charter member of the Boston Light ArtUlery, the first mounted battery j\I. V. M. He
came to Somerville in i860, and served in the Common Council in 1884 and 1885, in the
Board of Aldermen in 1886 and 1887, and on the Water Board in 1889 and 1890. He is a
member of the John Abbot Lodge, !•". A. A. M., the Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., the Bos
ton Veteran Firemen's Association, the Vermont Association and the Mystic Valley Club.
Mr. Holt married Mary A. Richardson, daughter of Artemas and Rachel (Davis)
Richardson, of Weston, Vt. They reside at 197 Washington street.
Hopkins, James R., chief of the .SomerviUe Fire Department, was born at East Cam
bridge, January 10, 1836, and was educated in the Cambridge public schools. After gradua
tion, at the age of sixteen, he was apprenticed to learn the furniture-carving trade with Doe,
Hunnewell & Co., furniture manufacturers. While serving his apprenticeship he also received
a full course of instruction in drawing at the Lowell Institute, Boston.
He remained with this concern until the spring of 1858. He then found employment
at the Haley, Morse & Boyden furniture factory, at South Dedham — now Norwood, — where
he remained one year, and then returned to his former employers, with whom he remained
until April 19, 1861, when he responded to the first call of President Lincoln for troops, and
with the Somerville Light Infantry, a part of the Fifth Massachusetts Regiment, went to
Washington, D.C., via X'ew York and Annapolis, in Gen. B. F. Butler's command. Sub
sequently, with his regiment he was stationed in Virginia, and participated in the first battle
of Bull Run. With this battle ended his three months' term of enlistment. Returning
home, he at once found a position with his old employers at East Cambridge.
In the fall of 1862 he again enlisted, and went with General Butler to New Orleans,
where he remained seventeen months, and was attached to the Chief Quartermaster's
Department. His long and successful career as a fireman commenced when he was a mere lad, and
he has been an active member of several engine companies in East Cambridge, Somerville
and Norwood. In 1859 he was placed on the rolls of the Somervflle X'o. i Company, and
served as an active member, and during his time of service in the war as an absent member,
until X'ovember 7, 1865, when he was transferred to the new Hose Company X'o. I, with
which he remained until it disbanded in July, 1866.

570 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Tie held the office of second assistant foreman of Somerville Engine Company No. i in
1859, and was clerk of the company the year following. He was also clerk of Hose Com
pany No. I during the entire time he was a member of that company. In April, 1869, he
was appointed an engineer by the old Board of Selectmen, and January 15, 1872, some
two weeks after Somerville became a city, he was elected chief, and has held that position
ever since. He was one of the original members that organized the National Association
of Fire Engineers at Baltimore, Md., October 20, 1873. He has attended most of its an
nual conventions, has held the office of vice-president, and served upon many of its impor
tant committees, as well as contributing many valuable essays on the fire service at its
conventions. He is also an active member of the Massachusetts State Firemen's Associa
tion, the .Somerville Volunteer Veteran Firemen's Association, and the prime mover in the
recently organized Massachusetts Fire Chiefs' Club. He is also a member of the J. Abbot
Lodge, F. A. A. M., Oasis Lodge, I. O. of O. F., the Royal Arcanum, Knights of Honor,
Good Fellows and the G. A. R. For many years he has been a member of prominent church
choirs in Boston, Roxbury and Somerville. He was married September 30, 1S65, to Susan
C. iVIoore, daughter of J. Abram Moore, and has two children, a son and a daughter.
Howes, Francis M., was born at Chatham, Mass., in 1840. He was of a sea-faring
family, and very naturally he took to the sea, shipping before the mast on fishing schooners
when but eleven years of age, during the summer months. Throughout the winters he
attended school. After four years of this life he shipped in one of the vessels of the Mer
chants and Miners Transportation Company, the Joseph Whitney, and with the exception
of about two and a half years in the latter part of the Fifties, which he spent in cruising
around Cape Horn, his entire nautical life has been in the employ of this line. His rise w-as
steady and rapid, and when he was but twenty-six years of age he took his first per
manent command of the McClellan, formerly the Joseph Whitney, although he had had
temporary command of the George Appold the year before. He was the youngest captain
that ever had command of a steamer of this line, and to-day he is the oldest captain in point
of service. He has held the position of senior captain of the line for ten years, a position
that his brother, the late Solomon Howes, held before him. The late Capt. Howes, who took
the first boat out of Boston Harbor on Christmas Eve, 1854, was as able a sailor as ever
commanded a ship, and it was under his training and that of Capt. Hallett, the pioneer
commanders of the line, that Capt. Howes received his lessons in seamanship. This training,
together with his natural push and indomitable will, have put him in his present high position
on the line. In the twenty-seven years in which he has been a captain for this line, Capt.
Howes has commanded the following vessels : The McClellan, George Appold, Blackstone,
William Lawrence, WiUiam Crane, Berkshire, Decatur H. Miller, Chatham (named in honor
of his native town), the Dorchester, and the new boat the Gloucester, one of the finest vessels
afloat. At the age of twenty-one, Capt. Howes married Miss Catherine R. Doane, of Chatham,
where they had been schoolmates together. About seven years later he moved to Somer
ville, where he has resided for the past twenty-nine years. Their union has been blessed with
six children, of whom one son and three daughters are still alive. They reside on .Summer
street. Capt. Howes, during his service with this line, has towed in fifteen disabled vesselsi
and rescued from a watery grave eleven crews. Oftentimes his life-saving work has been done
at great personal risk, and his acts of heroism have been recognized in many ways. He is
a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., Knights of Honor, Royal Arcanum, and
Pilgrim p'athers.
Hubbard, Orrin C, was born in Rowley, Mass., May 13, 1851, the son of Calvin and
Mary E. (Chaplin) Hubbard, of that town. He was educated in the public schools of his
town, and the Dummer Academy. In 1870 he came to Boston, and learned the silk hatter's
trade, remaining with the firm of Brown & Wilcox fourteen years. His entering business on

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 571
his own account resulted in the establishment of the firm of Lamson & Hubbard, where he
still continues. Mr. Hubbard came to Somerville in 1881. He is a member of John Abbot
Lodge, F. A. A. M., .Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., of which he has been high priest; Orient
CouncU, R. and S. M., De Molay Commandery, K. T., and Boston Lodge of Perfection,
S. R. He resides on Highland avenue.
Hughes, Albert E., was born in Truro, Mass., in December, 1831, son of James and
Jane (Avery) Hughes. He was educated in the schools of his native town, and came to
Boston in 1850, when he engaged with his brother, John Avery Hughes, in the manufacture
of show-cases, which business he still carries on, at the original location on Washington
street, opposite the Old South Church. Mr. Hughes was married to Miss Anna M. Magoun,
daughter of Joshua Magoun, of Charlestown, w-ho was the pioneer ship-builder on the
.Mystic River, and whose yard occupied the site where the Charlestown gas-works are now
located. Mr. Hughes came to Somerville in 1856. He resides at 59 Pearl street.
Huntley, L. Herbert, was born in Charlestown, May i, 1858. He came to Somerville
in 1870, and attended the Prescott Grammar and the High School; on the completion of his
education he entered the employ of his father in the produce commission business in
Boston, and subsecjuently became a member of the firm of R. Huntley and Son. Tie is now
sole proprietor of the business, and is located on Blackstone street, and in Blackstone Mar
ket. Mr. Huntley is a member of the Boston Chamber of Commerce, Excelsior Council,
R. A. M., Harmony Council, H. C, and the East Somerville Baptist Church. He was
elected to the Common Council in 1894, re-elected in 1895, ^"^i ''>' ^ unanimous vote was
chosen president of the Council in that year. He is now a member of the Board of Alder
men. His residence is at No. i Pearl street.
Ireland, George W., son of Jonathan and Mercy (Pollard) Ireland, was born January
13, 1816, in Boston, on Warrenton street, at the corner of Tremont street, in the house
that stood on the triangular piece recently taken for subway purposes. His ancestors were
born in that part of Charlestown now Somerville, at the corner of Ireland's rangeway
(School street) and Milk Row (Somerville avenue). He received his education at Madam
Rider's private school, the Franklin School, and the English High School of Boston. He
was true to the friendships of his youth, and made great efforts in his old age to attend the
meetings of the Boston Old Schoolboy's Association. He entered the employ of Whittemore
& Chamberlin in 1833, rising to the position of chief clerk, and having charge of their busi
ness. In 1837 he went to Stoddard, N. H., where, with his brother, Wm. H. Ireland, he
engaged in a general-store business, and the manufacture of potato-starch and potash.
The brothers bought out the soda manufacturing business of Darling & Pollard,
Boston, in 1845. ^''- Iceland sold out in 1853, and moved to Somerville, building a
residence, and engaging in the real estate business and fruit-raising. He was one of the
founders of the First Universalist Church, and at the time of his death, its senior deacon. He
was assessor four years, and the last collector under the town government. Mr. Ireland
was married, X'ovember 28, 1841, to Jane Preston of Windsor, N. H., who is still living.
He has had three children : Emma Jane, who died in infancy; George H. Ireland, assistant
treasurer of the Milton Bradley Co., Springfield, Mass. ; and Martha Jane, wife of Dr. E. P.
Gerry, Jamaica Plain. He became ill while on a visit to his daughter, and died after a long
and painful illness, July 2, 1895.
Jones, Mel-yille D., was born in Boston, September 25, 1842. He received an edu
cation in the public schools of his native city, and when but eighteen years of age, at the
breaking out of the Civil War, he enlisted in Captain Wm. R. Swan's Company (C), 5th Regi-
iment, Massachusetts Volunteers, and with the regiment started for the scene of war on the
19th of April, 1 86 1. The regiment served the State and nation creditably, and even after
its term of service had expired, participating in the first battle of Bull Run, in which it took

572 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
a prominent part. Mr. Jones, wearied by the excitement and fatigue of the day's battle, by
sheer exhaustion, fell out of the ranks of the regiment with a comrade on the retreat, and
slept in the woods, w-ithin a few miles of Centreville, the place for which the troops had
started in the morning, and was accounted one of the missing; but in consequence of the
rebels not following up their victory, he found his way back to Alexandria on the evening
of the 22d. When the call for six months' troops was made in 1862, he again offered his
services, and enlisted in Company F, Captain J. F. Sawyer, Cambridge, of the 6th Regiment,
and served for nine months. This regiment was stationed during its term of service in Suf
folk, Va., and, operating with the troops in that vicinity, was in many engagements. After his
discharge from the service he entered the employ of the John A. Winn & Co., ornamental
iron works, and in 1870 he embarked in business on his own account in the same trade,
and continues in it at his present location, 368 Washington street, Boston. Mr. Jones came
to SomerviUe in 1868, and has had his residence here since that time. He was married to
Catherine F. Lovett of Boston, 'August 31, 1864, and they have a family of three sons and
one daughter, the oldest son, JlelvUle F., being associated with his father in business, and
the third son, Frederick G., employed in his factory. Mr. Jones joined the WiUard C. Kins
ley Post No. 139, G. A. R. in 1870, and has been a prominent member, and has taken an
active part in the work of the post. Lie was chairman of its relief committee in 1884 to
1886, and was elected S. V. Commander to fill a vacancy in 1885, and was unanimously
chosen Commander for 1886. He served on the Department Commander's staff in 1887,
and was national delegate for two succeeding years. Mr. Jones is amember of A. O. U. W.,
Somerville Lodge; Winter Hill Lodge, Knights of Honor; John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.;
Somerville Royal Arch Chapter; De Molay Commandery, K. T. Though evincing a great
interest in city affairs, he took no prominent part in Somerville politics until 1894, when he
was elected a member of the Board of Aldermen from Ward 2, to which office he was re
elected in 1895, and was unanimously chosen president of the board. He served on some
of the important committees, and was chairman of the Sewer Committee in 1896. In No
vember last, he was elected a member of the General Court as an independent Republican.
He resides at 53 Walnut street.
Jones, William P., second son of WiUiam Edward and Ellen F. (Preble) Jones, was
born in SomervUle, April 22, 1869, and has always lived in this city; he graduated from the
Forster Grammar School in 1883, from the High School in 1887, and from Harvard College
in 1891. In college he made a specialty of history and political economy and kindred sub
jects, with the intention of studying law, and in the fall of 1891 entered the Harvard Law
School. After one year there he embarked in journalism, and since May, 1892, has been
connected w-ith the "Somerville Journal," of which he is one of the editors. His especial
pride is the fact that by hard work he earned and paid for his education. He is a member
of the Central Club, Unity Council, Royal Arcanum, and other organizations. Resides at
50 Vernon street.
Kaan, Frank W., was born in Medford, Mass., September 11, 1861. He came to
SomervUle in 1864, and attended the public schools, being a member of the class of 1878 in
the High School. After spending a year as clerk in the Boston office of the Warren Steam
ship Line, he entered Harvard CoUege, from which he graduated in 1883. He taught one
year in the Heathcote School, Buffalo, N. Y., and one year in the High School, Waltham,
Mass., he then studied law in the Harvard Law School, receiving the degrees of A.M.
and LL.B., and for the last ten years has been engaged in the practice of law in Boston.
He is a member of the Central Club and of the Boston Bar Association; secretary of
the Home for Aged Women, Revere street, Boston; past master of John Abbot Lodge, A. F.
and A. M., and for three years has'^been one of the Masonic state lecturers. From 1888 to
1892 inclusive he was clerk of the Overseers of the Poor; a member of the Common Council

jj^^^ -^^ -^ft^s^

1 1

^^^^Sm ^tp^

If

\'}
^''f...
jA
^Mr
M
^^K y \
jg^
John Kelley.
Frederick L. Kellogg, M.D.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 575
in 1893; its president in 1894; and representative from Ward 2 in the General Court in 1895
and 1896, serving as a member of the committee on mercantile affairs both years, also as
house chairman of the committee on election laws the second year.
Kelley, John, was born in Portland, Me., May 6, 1845, where he passed his boyhood
and attended the public schools. At the age approaching seventeen he enlisted in the Fifth
Maine Infantry, and served his country for four years and four months. On his return home
he was apprenticed as a mason, and after serving his time, w-hich was three years, he moved
to Boston, and for nine years was foreman for Page Brothers, contractors. At the end of
his term of service he went into the mason business for himself, and has since continued in
it. Lie has erected many substantial and elegant buildings, among which are the Columbia
Theatre of Boston, the Haymarket, Lynn, and Worcester telephone buildings, besides many
other structures used for mercantile and public purposes.
Mr. Kelley came to Somerville in 1869, having married Miss Sarah J. Blake of Charles
town, Mass. For nine years they have made their home on Highland avenue, near the City
Hall. He early took an interest in WiUard C. Kinsley Post 139, G. A. R., and worked up
from the subordinate positions to be commander in i888. On his retirement from office he
was presented with an elegant and costly gold medal. A further expression of esteem in
which he is held by his comrades is shown by his selection as delegate to various annual
conventions of the X'ational Department. Mr. Kelley has always refused a municipal office,
but takes a lively interest in politics.
Kellogg, Dr. Frederick L., son of Frederick D. Kellogg and Cynthia R. (Bragg) Kel
logg, was born in New Salem, Mass., May 26, 1867. He was educated in the schools of
Orange, Mass. Received his medical diploma from Bellevue Hospital jSIedical College, New
York, in 1889. In 1890 he was house surgeon in the United States Marine Hospital of
X'ew York. He located in Somerville in 1 891, and resides at 19).^ Marshall street. He enjoys a
large and increasing practice.
Kennard, John F., was born in Newmarket, now X'ewfields, N. H., August 14, 1830,
and was educated in the common schools of that town. After leaving school he learned the
machinist trade, and was in the employ of the Swampscott Machine Co., until August, 1862,
when he enlisted in the quota of his native town, and on the 28th of that month ^\-as mustered
into the United States service in Co. A, Eleventh Regiment, N. H. Volunteers. He followed
the fortunes of the regiment, participating in its various marches, battles and skirmishes;
he was in the battle at Fredericksburg, December 13, 1862, where a brother in the same com
pany was mortally wounded. He w-as also in the siege of Vicksburg under Grant, and after
the surrender of that stronghold his regiment was ordered to Jackson, Miss., in pursuit of
Gen. J. E. Johnson and his troops. After the engagement at that place the regiment came
back to MiUdale and Oak Ridge, Miss., where it remained about two weeks awaiting trans
portation north. When the regiment reached Cairo, Ifl., his only remaining brother was
carried to a hospital at Mound City, III., where he died from disease contracted in Mississippi.
The regiment was ordered to Cincinnati, August 14, 1863, and then w-ent into camp at Cov
ington, Ky., after which it was ordered to East Tennessee; Mr. Kennard, uho was sick with
malarial fever, was left at the hospital in Covington, and was finally discharged for disabiUty,
April 22, 1864. He came to Boston in the autumn of 1866, and was employed as a salesman
for the firm of Geo. K. Paul & Co., and was with them twenty-eight years, until they went out
of business. He came to Somerville to reside in 1877 ; represented Ward 3 in the City Coun
cil in 1884, 1885, 1886, and was a member of the Board of Aldermen in 1887 and i888.
He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. M., Paul Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F., SomerviUe
Encampment, I. O. O. F., Willard C. Kinsley Post 139, G. A. R., Unity Council, R. A.,
Winter HiU Lodge, K. of H., and Harmony Council, H. C. He has been married three
times, but has no chUdren living; he resides on Dartmouth street.

576 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Keyes, Amos, was born in Acworth, N. H., July i6, 1820, the eldest son of Ralph and
Hannah (Wilson) Keyes. He attended the district school of the town, and when a young man
served for a time as teacher. Much of his early life was spent in hard work upon his uncle's
farm and in a country store. At the age of twenty he went to Bellows Falls, Vt., where
he worked in a hotel four years. He then came to Boston, where he obtained employment
at Faneuil Hall Market. In 1848 he went into business with Sartwell & Walker, and a year
later started in the produce trade for himself at 24 Faneuil Hall square, where, with his
brother Dean W. Keyes as partner, he remained eleven years, removing thence to 26 Black
stone street. Here for thirty-seven years he carried on a large and successful wholesale pro
duce business, and became widely known. In 1853 he married Miss Martha W. Ginn,
daughter of Daniel and Sarah (Odom) Ginn of Belmont, Me., then residing in Charlestown,
Mass. In 1855 he removed to Somerville, purchasing a house and lot at the corner of Cen
tral and Medford streets. In 1872 he erected the substantial dwelling that now occupies
the site of the old one, and there he resided until his death, which occurred August 17, 1896.
He left a widow, two daughters, and two sons, who for fifteen years past have been in the
firm, and now carry on the business. Mr. Keyes was one of the organizers of the Congre
gational Church at the corner of Broadway .and Central street, and was for many years its
treasurer, and always a constant attendant. He was a member of the Boston Chamber of
Commerce and .of the Boston F'ruit and Produce Exchange. Mr. Keyes lived quietly and
unostentatiously. His business integrity and his all-round qualities as a Christian gentleman
were the chief traits in his character. At the time of his death the Boston Chamber of Com
merce paid a tribute to his memory that none too many in business life win. The following
are part of the resolutions adopted by that body and spread upon their records : —
" Amos Keyes was one of the best known and most highly respected men in the pro
duce trade in Boston. It is over half a century since he first came to this city, and for forty
years past he conducted the business of the firm which bears his name, and which from smaU
beginnings has become one of the leading houses in its line in New England.
"All who have known him during these years bear willing testimony to his sound judg
ment, his strict integrity, and to the conscientious manner in which he discharged every obli
gation of life. He was scrupulously honest, and had the confidence of every person with
whom he had dealings. It had become a current expression around the market that ' Amos
Keyes's word was as good as gold.'
" He was not known much in public life, but in religious and charitable circles he was
charged with several important trusts, and was a liberal contributor to all movements for the
honor of his country, for the afleviation of suffering and for the spiritual welfare of mankind.
He was a Christian gentleman in the broadest sense, and his kindness and generosity were
proverbial. Nobody ever appealed to Amos Keyes for advice or assistance in vain.
" While we, his fellow-members, business associates and personal friends, deeply deplore
his loss, we feel consoled by the belief that his truly Christian life has won for him an eter
nal reward, and that his example will be a guiding star to the younger generation of mer
chants, showing them that industry, truth and fair dealing are the surest paths to success."
Kimball, Fred Mason, was bom at Barton, Vt., July 7, 1861, the son of R. M.
and L. D. KimbaU. In May, 1870, his parents removed to Somerville, and took up
their residence at the corner of Main and Fremont streets. Winter Hill, where the family
have ever since lived. Mr. Kimball is a graduate of the P'orster Grammar School and the
Somerville High School. After graduating from the latter institution he entered Massachu
setts Institute of Technology, being one of the first to take a course in electrical engineering
in that school. Upon leaving the institute he immediately became connected with one of the
pioneer parent electric lighting companies, and rapidly advanced to the position of chief
constructing engineer. In this capacity he designed and superintended the erection of many

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. S77
of the early electric light stations in New England, among them one of the largest which at
that time had been erected in this country. When his employers, the American Electric and
Illuminating Company, removed their principal offices to X'ew York City, Mr. Kimball re
signed his position to accept an engagement as assistant general manager and director of
laboratories with the Electrical Development and Manufacturing Co., a newly organized con
cern employing over one hundred men, and engaged in building electrical apparatus and
developing electrical inventions.
Foreseeing the rapid growth of electrical enterprises, in 1885 Mr. Kimball formed a
partnership with Mr. Frank E. Davis, also of .Somerville, under the firm name of Kimball &
Davis, for the manufacture of all varieties of small electric light and power machinery and
supplies. Mr. Davis retired from the firm in 1887, and the business was continued under the
style of Fred. M. Kimball & Co. Especial attention was given to the export trade, in which
a large business was secured, with South American and Mexican States principally, but which
also extended to the Sandwich Islands, India and Europe. In September, 1891, a year
marked by consolidations, patent litigations and general changes in the electrical field, Mr.
Kimball disposed of his business to enter the employ of the Edison General Electric Company
as one of the department managers of that company in X'ew England. With the absorption
of the Edison Company by the General Electric Company in 1892, he became New England
manager of one of its largest departments, which position he now holds. On August 5, 1 885,
Mr. Kimball was married to Miss Nellie S. Ross of Medford, and three daughters, Nellie L.,
Winifred R. and Irene M., have been born to them.
Mr. Kimball is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. M.; SomerviUe Chapter; Coeur
de Lion Commandery of Charlestown; the Royal Arcanum; A. O. U. W.; 999th ArtiUery
Association; the Society of Arts; " Electric Potential," an association of pioneer electrical
workers of New England; and is connected officially with several corporations.
Kimball, George A., was born in Littleton, Mass., May 14, 1850, and received his edu
cation in the public schools of his native town and at the Appleton Academy, New Ipswich,
N. H. He came to Somerville in 1869, and entered the office of Frost Bros., civil engineers,
as a student. In 1876 he was appointed city engineer by Mayor Belknap, which position he
held until 1886, when he resigned. He has since been engaged as consulting engineer for
Brockton on its sewerage system, and for X'ew Bedford, Brockton and Haverhill in regard to
the abolition of grade crossings. He designed and built the Arlington sewerage system ; de
signed sewerage works at Montpelier,Vt., Milton, Salemand Peabody; built the Millis water
works; and was a member of the original grade-crossing commission appointed by Gov.
Ames in 1888. He was for seven years a member of the .SomerviUe Board of Health, and
an alderman from Ward 2 in 1889 and 1890, and is at present a member of the SomervUle
Mystic Water Board. He was appointed consulting engineer for the city of Somerville in
January, 1896, by Mayor Perry, and in X'ovember, 1S96, was appointed by the governor and
council a member of the Metropolitan Sewerage Commission.
Mr. Kimball is amember of the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Boston .Society
of Civil Engineers, and the New England Water Works' Association. He is a member of
the Prospect Hill Church, John Abbot Lodge, F. A. .\. M., and other societies in Somerville.
He resides at 33 Warren avenue.
Knapp, Oren S., was born in Boston, July 16, 1829. At the age of six he removed to
Maiden, and was educated in its schools, beginning to teach at the age of seventeen. He
entered Amherst College, but at the end of two years was obliged to relinquish his course, on
account of a trouble with his eyes. He taught two years in Medford, and was elected prin
cipal of the Prospect Hill School in Somerville, then the most important school in this vicin
ity, in 1853. He was a faithful and efficient teacher for eleven years, relinquishing his posi
tion for the practice of law in 1865. He was chosen a member of the School Board in the

5/8 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
same year, and served at intervals for fifteen years, one year of the time as superintendent of
schools. He died suddenly, November 4, 1890.;
Mr. Knapp was one of Somerville's foremost citizens, always interested and prominent
in every movement to advance its interests, fearless and independent in the expression of
opinion and in action, wise in counsel, kind and sympathetic and helpful as a friend, loyal
and devoted as a citizen, respected and loved by all u-ho knew him. The C). .S. Knapp School,
on Concord avenue, was opened in 1890, and named in his honor.
Lacount, Eugene D., was born in .Spencer, Mass., X'ovember i, 1844. His earlyyears
were passed among the vicissitudes incident to a .Methodist minister's family of that period. At
the age of seventeen he enlisted in the 25th ^fassachusetts Volunteers, and was in the service
over three years, four months of which were passed in a Southern prison, he having been
wounded and taken prisoner at Drury's Bluff, Va., May 16, 1864. Soon after coming to
Somerville he. with his father, identified himself in the formalion of a Methodist society in
West Somerville, from which resulted the present Park-avenue M. E. t'hurch, in which he has
always taken an active part. He is also a director of the Somerville Y. M. C. A. Mr. La
count is the senior member of the firm of John Holman & Co., Boston, one of the oldest and
most prominent manufacturing firms of bedding in Xew England, and has, on many occasions,
been called upon to represent his associates of the wholesale furniture, and kindred trades.
His residence since 1870, the year of his removal to this city, has been on Day street.
Lamont, Andrew A., was born at Douglastown, X. B., March 16, 1849. H^ was
educated in ihe schools of that town. .Speaking of himself, Mr. Lamont said: "Thus far
my life has been one of hard work and activity along several lines." Between the ages of
twelve and seventeen years he became a competent ship-carpenter. This business being at
a low ebb on the .Vliramichi, he learned carriage-making at X'ew Castle, N. B., and Salem,
.Mass., landing at the latter place January I, 1868. He carried on business successfully in
Chicago for a time, and in the faU of 1873 made a tour of Southern cities, visiting X'ew
Orleans, Galveston, .Vustin and other places.
Returning X'orth, he entered the service of his former employer at Salem. In Septem
ber, 1874, he married Henrietta H. Powell. Two of his children, Mary A. and .Sarah J.,
were born in Salem; two others, Charles .\. and Harold B., were born in Somerville, where
he has resided since the fall of 1878. In the winter of 1881 he started in business at the
corner of Lancaster and Merrimack streets, Boston, where he has now a successful estab
lishment. The sudden death of his wife, in 18S7, was a severe affliction. March 16, 1891,
he married Mary Z. Russefl, a resident of his native town. .Mr. Lamont has for the past four
years given much attention tu real estate, and is a trustee of three prosperous land com
panies. He was elected to the CouncU in 1894 and 1895, to the Board of Aldermen in 1896,
is a member of Broadway Congregational Church and a teacher in the Sabbath-school, a Past
Xoble Grand of Paul Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F., High Priest of the Winter HUl Encamp
ment, I. O. O. F., member of the Knights of Honor, of the Royal Arcanum, and a trustee of
the Somerville Finance Club. Mr. Lamont resides at 43 Heath street.
Lapham, F. De Witt, was born in Littleton, Mass., July 6, 1845, ^"^ is a son of
Luther and Desiah (Needham) Lapham. When eighteen he went to Eastman's Commer
cial College at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and after finishing his course he w-ent to Boston, en
gaging with the tobacco houses of Brown & Co. and Susmann & Co., passing twenty-one
years with these concerns. In 1886 he started in the real estate and insurance business in
SomerviUe, and he is now one of the most active and prosperous men in those lines.
He married Jennie IT. Dickson, daughter of Thomas Dickson, of Salem, in 1869,
coming to this city at the time. They had two daughters : Mrs. Jennie I. Knowles, lately
deceased; and Carolyn F., now twenty-one years of age.
Mr, Lapham is quite an association member, being a member of Soley Lodge, Somer-

F. De Witt Lapham.

Residence of Charles H. Lockhart, 352 Elm Street.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 58 1
ville Royal Arch Chapter, Excelsior Council, Royal Arcanum (in which for eighteen years
he has been secretary), Somerville Home Circle, the Ancient Order of United Workmen,
Order of the Eastern Star, Howard Lodge and Somerville Encampment of Odd Fellows, in
both of which bodies he has been at the head, and is Lieutenant-Colonel, Second Regiment,
Patriarchs Militant.
In 1895 and 1896 he was elected a Common Councilman, and the last year has seen
him a most valuable member, having served on the committees on highways, public grounds,
and claims. The indefatigability with which Mr. Lapham supported his order for the ex
tension of the City Hall, and the new boulevard in the eastern section of the city, show the
official's interest in the city's_ welfare. Whatever he enters upon, he pursues to the success
ful close. Mr. Lapham is a member of the First Universalist Parish, and resides on Hathon
street. La-wrence, Bernard W., was born in East Lexington, Mass., June 15, 1846. His
education was obtained in the grammar and high schools of that town. He came to Boston
in 1863, and was engaged in the fruit and produce business in Faneuil Hall Market until
1890. He then removed to 103 and 105 Commercial street, and embarked in the foreign and
domestic fruit trade and in the sale of cigars. He resided in Boston from August, 1863,
untfl April, 1872, when he moved to Somerville, where he stUl lives. Mr. Lawrence joined
the Fire Department in 1873, and w-as elected foreman in 1874, which position he held for
eleven years. He was a member of the Common Council in 1885, served for two years, and
was then elected as a member of the Board of Aldermen, and held that office in 1887 and
1888, being chosen as president of the board in the last year of his term of office. He re
sides at 289 Highland avenue.
Lincoln, Charles Sprague, was born in Walpole, N. H., April 20, 1826. He was
graduated from Harvard University in 1850. He taught school for a while after gradua
tion, coming to SomerviUe for the purpose in 1852. He was admitted to the bar in i860.
He was Selectman and Solicitor for the town for many years. He served on the School
Committee of Somerville from 1858 to 1867, and again from 1877 to 1883. He has twice
represented the city in the Legislature, and rendered valuable service on the Boards of
Health and of Overseers of the Poor. The Public Library owes much of its success and
development to his efforts as trustee, which office he has held since 1879.
In his long career as a public official, during =1 residence of forty years, he has con
tributed greatly to the prosperity of the city, and has won the respect and gratitude of his
fellow-citizens by the honesty, the abflity, and the fidelity displayed in the management of
the trusts committed to his care. In 1866 the Lincoln School, then located on Elm street,
and now on Clarendon Hill, was named in his honor.
Locke, Marshall Hammon, was born at Lexington, Mass., April 12, 1822, the son of
Hammon and Rebekah (X'evers) Locke. His early life was passed on the paternal farm,
and his education was obtained in the schools of his native town. His employment in after
life has been varied, he having been ^ farmer, milk-dealer, miner, house-carpenter, ship-
carpenter, storekeeper and painter. December 26, 1848, he married Lucy A. Wyman of
Lexington, daughter of James and Betsey (Locke) Wyman, and resided in that town until
October 31, 1849, when he went to California, where he remained about eighteen months,
and then returned to Lexington. He came to SomerviUe, January i, 1865, and has been a
resident of this city since that time. Mr. Locke is not a club man, and belongs to none of
the so-called secret societies, being quiet and domestic in his tastes, and happiest at his own
fireside. He has been a director of the Somerville Co-operative Bank, and a trustee for the
SomerviUe Savings Bank since they were established. He resides on Summer street.
Lombard, Frank G., was born in Charlestown, Mass., .\prU4, 1855. He attended the
public schools of his native city, and graduated from the Bunker HiU School in the summer

582 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
of 1871. In the autumn of that year he entered the Bryant and Stratton Commercial
CoUege of Boston, leaving that institution in the autumn of 1872, to take a position with the
well-known crockery-house of Abram French & Co., Boston, the largest establishment of its
kind in the country. In the spring of 1879 he moved to Mt. Vernon street. East Somer
viUe, where he now resides. He has served the city as a member of the Councfl and of the
Water Board, and has been identified with many things pertaining to the welfare of Somer
ville. He is a member of various organizations, among which may be named the Soley
Lodge, F. A. A. M.; the Somerville Royal Arch Chapter; the Cceur de Lion Commandery
of Charlestown; the Excelsior CouncU, Royal Arcanum; and the Webcowit Club. He is a
director and clerk of the board of directors of the Abram French Company, with whom for
twenty-four years he has had a business connection, and is highly esteemed both in social
and mercantUe circles.
Lombard, Henry F., was born in Truro, Mass., July 20, 1853, son of Henry S. and
Betsey M. Lombard. He came to SomerviUe when quite young, and was educated in our
public schools. After his education was completed, he entered business, and was for many
years connected w-ith his father in the clothing trade on Clinton street, Boston. On the
death of his father, which occurred about 1893, he formed a partnership with his brother,
and they succeeded to the business, which is still carried on under the old firm name at
22 to 26 Merchants' Row, Boston. Mr. Lombard is a member of Joseph Warren Lodge
F. A. A. M. He resides with his mother on Pearl street.
Loring, George Fullington, son of Captain George and Harriet A. (Stoodley) Loring,
was born in Boston, March 26, 1851. His father was of Barnstable, Mass., and was the son
of David Loring, and his mother ivas a daughter of James Stoodley of Berwick, Me. .Mr.
Loring was educated in the public schools of Boston. In 1868 he entered the office of the
City Engineer at the City HaU, Boston, and was the principal draughtsman of the surveying
department for many years. He began the study of architecture early in life, and in 1S82
left the employ of the city of Boston, and entered an architect's office; a few years later he
opened an office on his own account, and in 1889 formed a partnership with Sanford Phipps
of Watertown, Mass., under the firm name of Loring and Phipps, which association has
since continued. Among the more important buildings which this firm has erected are the
school buildings at Greenwich, Conn., the gift of H. 0. Havemeyer of New York City;
the High School of Montclair, N. J.; the High Schools at Everett, Athol, Ware, Winsted,
Conn., and many other high and graded schools, churches, etc. Many of the elegant
residences in Brookline, West Newton and Wellesley are from plans by this firm, who were
also architects' of George H. Derby's residence on Highland avenue, Mr. Haigh's residence
on Summer street, and many other of the better class of dwellings in Somerville. The
Public Library, Odd Fellows' Building, Masonic Building, Divinity (Miner) Hall, Tufts
College, the Glines and Pope Schools were also from plans by these architects.
Mr. Loring is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., and De Molay Comman
dery of Knights Templar; he is also an Odd Fellow, a member of American Order United
Workmen, a member of the L. A. W., and belongs to the Central Club. He was married
to Sarah Frances Johnson, daughter of the late John B. Johnson, a descendant of Captain
Edward Johnson, Kent, England, who died at Woburn, 1699; her grandfather, Jotham
Johnson, was chairman of the Board of Selectmen of Charlestown at the time of the
Xunnery Riot; her grandmother was Susannah Tufts of Charlestown, daughter of Samuel
Tufts; and her mother .Sarah Ann (Poor), daughter of .Samuel Poor of Woburn, and Lydia
Sprague of Maiden. They have four children : Ernest Johnson, architect, who is in business
with his father, and is a graduate of class '95, M. I. T. ; Ralph Stoodley, Gladys and Marjorie
Loring; and they reside at the corner of Higland avenue and Putnam street. It is worth
mentioning that this family are living on land that is a portion of the farm of their earliest
ancestors. Mr. Loring has been closely identified with the interests of our city since 1868.

a.

o m
Oa

o z
o

ooX
Orq'

>

584 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Lovejoy, Benjamin P., the son of Jeremiah and Betsy Lovejoy, was born in Gloucester,
Mass., May 29, 1833, the residence of the family being then on the present site of the new
post-office and government buildings. When he was five years of age his family moved to
Lynn, where they remained six months, and thence removed to Reading, where his father
purchased a farm. Here Mr. Lovejoy remained for fifteen years, assisting in the farm work,
and obtaining such education as he could at the common school, which he was able to
attend a few months only in each year. In 1853 he left the farm, and came to Boston,
where he found employment with A. Aldrich & Co., butter merchants in the Quincy Market,
with whom he remained six or eight months. He then entered the employ of N. D. V.
Taylor & Co., who were engaged in the foreign fruit trade in Merchants' Row, and at the
expiration of twenty months left them, to take a position with the firm of Cyrus Carpenter
& Co., dealers in furnaces, etc. In 1867 he was admitted a partner in the house, and in
1893, after the death of Mr. Carpenter, his interest was purchased by Mr. Lovejoy, and he
is now the sole owner of the business. He married Miss Emma S. Carpenter, February 27,
1856, and has two children, a son and daughter, both of whom are married.
In September, 1861, they removed from Boston to SomerviUe, and in July, 1883, took
up their residence in the handsome house that Mr. Lovejoy erected at No. 141 Highland
avenue. Mr. Lovejoy was a member of the Common Council in 1874 and 1875, serving on
the committees on public property, and fuel and street lights. He was one of the foremost
promoters of the park, and has been very earnest in forwarding its interests. He is a
member of the Royal Arcanum and Home Circle, but is not a club man in the usual
acceptance of the term, his tastes being quiet and domestic.
Lowe, Rev. Charles. Charles Lowe was born in Portsmouth, N. H., November 19,
1828. His parents removed to Exeter, N. H., while he was very young. He graduated at
Exeter Academy, and entered Harvard University in 1844, as sophomore, and, on his gradua
tion, entered the Cambridge Divinity School, having decided to become a minister. When
his course was finished he received a call to the Unitarian parish of New Bedford, as colleague
with Rev. John Weiss. After a year or more of good work there, his health failed, and he
went to Europe, and traveled in England and on the Continent, and also went to Egypt and
the Holy Land. He then attended lectures in the theological schools of Germany, becoming a
proficient in the German language. On his return home he accepted a call to the North Church
of Salem. He remained there two years, when, his health giving way, he resigned his position.
He married, in 1857, Miss Martha Perry of Keene, N. H., and rented an old-fashioned
homestead in the vicinity of Salem, where he could work out of doors and restore his
health. At the end of two years he received a call to Spring Hill, Somerville, as minister of
the First Congregational Unitarian Church. He accepted it, and removed here with his
wife, and built a house on Summer street, in 1859, and devoted himself earnestly to the
religious and practical interests of his parish. He worked vigorously for the cause of tem
perance in the community, and, at one time, with the help of one or two gentlemen, succeeded
in persuading all the liquor dealers in the town to give up seUing intoxicating drinks, in
case the rest would keep the contract. During the War of the Rebellion he addressed our
soldiers in his church, and also at Union square. He went down to the South twice to
preach and distribute tracts and other literature, and afterwards on a mission to the freedmen.
He stimulated his people by his letters home, and obtained from them liberal help for our
soldiers, and also induced them to pay the salary of a lady teacher for the freedmen.
Mr. Lowe had made himself, in the meantime, so efficient in the Army Committee of
the American Unitarian Association, and elsewhere, that they wished to secure his permanent
services, and invited him to be their secretary in 1865. His voice had become weakened,
and it was doubtful how long he would be able to preach, and so he resigned his pastorate
with many regrets, and accepted the new position for which he was so admirably fitted. He

Benjamin P. Lovejoy.

Residence of Benjamin P Lovejoy, 141 Highland Avenue.

Residence of Charles W. Lowell, 45 Kidder Avenue.

HOWARD Lowell.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 589
kept this situation until 1871, managing the affairs of the association with such tact, earnest
ness, and religious catholicity of spirit, that he won friends in all denominations, and when
he gave up the office, not only his co-religionists, but prominent men in other walks of life,
expressed their profound regret.
He had now two daughters, and a very attractive rural home in Somerville, and he
decided to remain here ; but his friends were anxious that he should go abroad for a time
and he embarked in a French steamer for Havre, with his family, and remained nearly two
years abroad, visiting England, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, where his brother-in-lau-,
Mr. Perry, resided at Madrid. On his return, with somewhat improved health, his active mind
led him, by the advice of friends, to start a religious magazine and review in the interests
of his denomination. He worked on it with great eagerness until the spring of 1874, and
with encouraging prospects, when he was prostrated w-ith a hemorrhage of the lungs, in the
month of May, from which he could not rally. After an illness of about three weeks, he
passed away June 20, 1874, in the forty-fifth year of his age, leaving a place vacant in his
home, his church, and the community, which could not be soon filled.
Lowell, Ho-ward, was born in Kennebunk, Me., .'Vugust 4, 1852, the son of Marshall
and Celestine M. LoweU. He passed his boyhood there, and, at sixteen, came to Somerville,
and worked for A. M. Angier, a well-known expressman. He returned to Maine, and at
twenty-one years of age came back to Somerville and drove a team for B. F. Chase, a baker
in East SomerviUe. In 1875 he was appointed a patrolman, and remained on the police
force seven years, when he started the Standard Cab Company in Boston, and was very
successful. He built a stable on Gilman street, and, in June, 1896, built another in front of
the older one, and has now the finest constructed stable in the city. In January, 1896, he sold
out the cab business, and commenced paying his sole attention to his business in Somerville.
The hay and grain and storage warehouse departments were added, and now the firm of
Howard Lowell & Son has one of the best equipped buildings to be found anywhere. In
1874 he married Laura E. Moulton of Cambridgeport. They have a daughter, who is a
general favorite among the young people, and a son, "George E., who became a partner with
his father in June, 1895, ^¦^'^ '^ ^ '*'^ry ambitious and upright young man. Mr. Lowell resides
at 46 Gilman street in a cozy house, which he bought some time ago. Mr. Lowell was
elected a Common Councilman from Ward 3 for 1896 and 1897, ^'"^ has done good service
for the city. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A.M., Odd Fellows, Somerville
Council Royal Arcanum, and the Sons of Maine.
Lo-well, Joseph Q., son of John and Mehitable (Bailey) Lowell, was born at Methuen,
Mass., April 8, 1842. He received his education in the schools of Haverhill, Mass., and
was brought up as a farmer's boy, assisting in the home farm-w-ork until he reached the age
of twenty-three; he then came to Boston, and entered the fruit and produce business in
which he has been engaged on his own account for upwards of thirty years, his firm, Lowell
Bros. & Bailey, being known as one of the largest and most prosperous in the trade. Mr.
Lo-«'ell was married in 1867 to Mertilla J. Dutton of Stanstead, P. Q., by whom he has had
two daughters and a son. They removed to Somerville from Charlestown in 1888. Mr.
Lowell is a member of the Boston Chamber of Commerce, and the Boston Fruit and Produce
Exchange; he also belongs to a number of fraternal associations, such as the I. O. O. F.,
Royal Arcanum, etc. He resides at 371 Broadway.
Luce, Robert, was born in Auburn, Me., in 1862, son of Enos T. and Phoebe L. Luce;
he attended the pubUc schools of Auburn and Lewiston, Me., and the High School of Somer
viUe, graduating from the latter in 1877. He subsequently entered Harvard College, gradu
ating in 1882, and taking the degree of A.M. in 1883. He then became connected with the
"Boston Globe," fiUing an editorial position on that paper until 1888, since which period he
has been a partner with his brother, Linn Luce, in conducting the Press Clipping Bureau in

Joseph Q. Lowell.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 59 1
Boston and New York, an institution that employs forty people and reads about two thou
sand papers daily. Mr. Luce has done a large amount of literary w-ork in addition to the
above: he was one of the founders of "The Writer," the author of " Electric Railways,"
and " Writing for the Press," and has issued various essays. His avocation outside the
Bureau work is that of lecturing, and he is well and favorably known in this department of
his work. Mr. Luce is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. .A.. A. M., and the Central Club,
and is an ex-president of the SomerviUe Democratic Club. He married Miss MabeUe C.
Farnham, daughter of Hiram L. and Elizabeth (Davis) Farnham of this city. They reside
at 44 Highland avenue.
Macomber, George H., son of William and Mary S. T. (Leeds) Macomber, was born
in Boston, April 16, 1857. He was educated in the public schools of that city, attending
the Dwight and English High Schools. He started in the clothing business in 1874 with
Chamberlin and Currier, and is now one of the officers of the well-known Standard Clothing
Company. He married Miss Hattie Osgood, of Charlestown, January 23, 1SS3. Their children
are Lawrence and Robert Leeds Macomber. He moved to his present residence, 102
Thurston street, in 1890.
MacQueen, Rev. Peter, was born at Inchbreed, ^Vigtonshire, Scotland, January 11,
1S63. He is a descendant, on one side of his family, of the MacGregor clan, and on the
other side, of the stern foUowers of Knox and Cameron. Pie has been in America since his
boyhood, having come here alone, and pushed his way by dint of energj-. industry and per
severance to his present position. He was an honor man in the class of 1887 of Princeton
University, a graduate of Union Theological Seminary, Xew York Cit\-, and was for two
years pastor of the Reformed Church, in Bronxville, X'. V. His work in that parish
was very successful, and his popularity there was universal.
In 1893, when the Day-street Church in this city was without a pastor, Mr. MacQueen
preached there as supply, and shortly afterwards received a unanimous call to that church,
which he accepted. He has done good, conscientious work in it; the membership and at
tendance have rapidly increased, and in 1896 the church was able to expend ,S8,ooo upon
the repairing and beautifying of the edifice and upon an elegant new- organ. The " Somer
ville Journal," in commenting on the church, says: "In the remodeled edifice of the Day-
street Congregational Church, .Somerville will have one of its most attractive church build
ings." Mr. MacQueen is a frequent contributor to the " Cosmopolitan " and " Munsey's," and
is well known in newspaper circles, both in Xew- York and Boston. He is a Ijrilliant, suggestive
preacher, a genial, social man, and has friends in every corner of West SomerviUe. He is
an enthusiastic traveler, and has visited every country in Europe, except Russia and Scan
dinavia. His most noted European trip was that made in the summer of 1896, when he
conveyed to King George of Greece a poem, "Our Laureled Sons," written by Henry
O'Meara, in commemoration of the Olympic games, and dedicated to the King. The mis
sion was a splendid success, Mr. MacQueen bringing back from the King and the city of
.\thens presents and compliments to the mayor of the city of Boston.
Since his return Mr. MacQueen has been more successful than ever in his stereopticon
lectures, which he had already made one of the features of the Day-street Church. He is
interested in all that concerns Somerville, and al« ays endeavors to promote its welfare. He
is unmarried. Magoun, John C, was born in New Hampton, X'. H., December 11, 1797, son of a
soldier in the Revolutionary War. He was educated in the schools of his native town and
in Atkinson Academy, and came to Charlestown at the age of twenty, where he engaged in
farming and in the milk business. He was captain of .-: mUitia company, and was present
with his command at the reception to Lafayette on Boston Common, and also at the laying
of the corner-stone of Bunker Hill Monument. Mr. Magoun held office as an assessor thirty-

C/5

J3 (Mo

ou
<

o
o UJ
O

ct

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 593
four years, and also served on the School Committee and as a member of the Board of Over
seers of the Poor. He was one of the founders of the First Unitarian Society. He died
January 8, 1882.
Mann, Alfred E., was born at Merrimack, Mass., X'ovember 17, i85i,but has Hved in
Somervflle since 1852. After obtaining his education he embarked in business, and in 1887
opened his undertaking establishment at No. 4 Warren avenue, where he has been success
ful in buflding up a large a[nd lucrative business. He stands high in his profession as a
funeral director and embalmer, having received instructions from the leading professors in
the art of embalming. He is now connected w-ith various trade associations, and is a member
of Oasis Lodge, LO. O.F., Somerville Encampment, Ivaloo I^odge, D.of R., Arcadia Lodge,
K. of P., Wonohaquaham Tribe, R. M., Delft Haven Colony Pilgrim Fathers, Putnam Com
mandery, U. O. G. C, Central Club, Mystic Valley Club, Somerville Veteran Firemen's .Asso
ciation, National Lancers, Signet Commandery Knights of Malta, and King Solomon I'riory.
Mr. Mann was married, in 1873, to Miss Emilie A. Galletly of this city. They reside at 75
Washington street.
Mann, Jairus, was born in Charlestown, October 29, 1825, the son of Joseph and
Eunice (Jacobs) Mann. His father died when he was nine years old, and after attending
a private school for a year he entered the law office of WiUiam Sawyer, of Charlestown, at
that time the leading lawyer and the only trial justice in the town. In 1853 he was ap
pointed a police officer in Somerville, and was afterward an assistant engineer and secretary
of the Fire Department. He was made lieutenant of the police in 1865, and held the posi
tion until he was appointed city messenger in 1872; since then he has held this office con
tinuously, every mayor having made him his first appointee. He is now the longest in the
service of the city of any of its officers. He has been a member of John Abbot Lodge,
F. A. A. M., since 1859. He is a member of Somerville R. A. Chapter, Excelsior Council,
R. A., Washington Council, Llome Circle, and Iron Hall. He is a member of the X'ational
Lancers, where he has held the positions of corporal and sergeant, and was the originator of
the Massachusetts City Messengers' Club, of which he is now secretary. Mr. Mann has been
twice m_arried: his first wife was Miss Emeline, daughter of John Runey, of Somerville;
his second wife was Miss Martha A., daughter of Josiah and Nancy (Smith) Spofford, of
Buxton, Me. He resides on Richdale avenue.
Meleney, Clarence E., was born in Salem December 8, 1853, the son of Henry E. and
Ehza A. (Innis) Meleney, of that city. His early education was obtained at the Hacker
Grammar School of Salem. He was fitted for college at the Classical Institute, Waterville,
Me., and was graduated at Colby University with the class of 1876. After graduation he was
principal of academies at Warren and Presque Isle, .Me.; the Methuen High; the Washing
ton Grammar at Marlboro, the Adams Grammar at Quincy; Grammar No. 2 at Yonkers, X'.
Y., and the Newton-street Grammar at X'ewark, X'. J. For five years he was superinten
dent of schools at Paterson, N. J.
Mr. Meleney came to Somerville in 1888, having been elected superintendent of schools
in this city, and he remained in that position five years. He married Miss Carrie E., daugh
ter of Rev. J. C. and Ellen Coit, of Newark, N. J.
Mentzer, Walter C, was born at Brady's Bend, Armstrong Co., Pa., son of Charles L.
and Lucy J. (Brewer) Mentzer, October 26, 1852. His early boyhood was spent in Boston,
he first attending school at Old Fort HiU, and later at the Hawes and Bigelow Grammar
Schools, South Boston. He graduated from the X'orthboro High School in 1869, and com
pleted his education at Warren Academy, Woburn, Mass. He came to SomerviUe in 1872.
Served in the SomervUle Fire Department as call-man attached to .Steamer No. i, was
present at the great fires in Boston, November 9, 1872, and May 30, 1873. He began busi
ness with his brother, Albert F. Mentzer, in 1872, and has continued in the wholesale provi-

Alfred E. Mann.

Residence of William L. Mercer, 342 Broadway.

C/3 S
UJ 00 ¦z.

3
O

Qi

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. S97
sion trade, under the firm name of W. C. & A. P". Mentzer, for twenty-four years, doing busi-
nass at 25 14 and 27 X'orth Market street, Boston, and Plymouth, IMass., as commission dealers
for Armour & Co. of Chicago, III.
In Somerville, December 31, 1876, Mr. Mentzer was married to Clara B., daughter of
Almon R. and Diana W. (Jackson) Thurston, of Barre, Vt. They have one son, Charles .\.
Mentzer, born November 5, 1877. Mr. Mentzer is identified with the Knights of Honor,
Royal Arcanum, I. 0. O. F., Charity Lodge, F. & A. Masons, SomerviUe R. A. Chapter, De
Molay Commandery of Boston, and Aleppo Temple Mystic Shrine.
lie served the city in the Common Council in 1885 and 1886, — was president of the
Conncfl the latter year, — was elected Alderman in 1887, elected on the Mystic Water Board
1889 and l8go; served as president of the Republican City Committee in 1893, '894, 1895,
1896. He is vice-president of the West Somerville Co-operative Bank, and director of the
Somerville National Bank. He resides at 36 Cherry street.
Mercer, William L., was born in Cecil County, near Baltimore, Md. He first engaged
in business about 1864, in Columbus, 0., where he had a boot and shoe store. At the time of
the great fire in Chicago he was located there, and his store shared the fate of many others.
He is a member of Magnolia Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Ohio Chapter, the Columbus Coun
cil, R. and ,S. M., and Mt. Vernon Commandery, K. T., all of Columbus, O. Mr. Mercer is
engaged in the real estate business at No. 50 School street, Boston, and resides at 342
Broadway, in one of the most attractive houses in SomervUle.
Merrill, Dr. Arthur Ellsworth, son of Robert and Elizabeth Allen Merrill, was born in
Parsonsfield, York County, Me., November 30, 1861. His boyhood was passed on the home
farm, where he imbibed good principles with the pure air of his native hills. His preparatory
education was obtained at Parsonsfield Seminary and at New Hampton, N. H. After pursu
ing the study of medicine for a time with Moses E. Sweat, M. D. (Parsonsfield), a noted
physician of the old school, he attended two courses of lectures at Brunswick, Me., then
entered Long Island College Hospital, Brooklyn, N. Y., taking two courses, the preliminary
and regiflar, also a special course in surgery, — receiving diplomas for each. Immediately
after graduation he married Ella Frances Guptill of Cornish, Me., and came to Somervflle,
opening an office at 367 Medford street, where he stfll resides.
Dr. MerriU is very fond of hunting, and has brought from the Maine woods some rare
trophies of his prowess. He is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, Soley Lodge
F. .\. A. M., Sons of Maine, and Highland Chapter No. 35, Order of the Eastern Star. He
has a growing practice, and has an honored name in the medical profession.
Merrill, Frank E., was born in Nashua, X'. H., November 22, 185S. He fitted for
Dartmouth in the public schools of his native city, but deciding to at once engage in active
life he entered the railroad service, and soon rose to the responsible position of chief clerk of
the passenger and ticket department of the old Boston & Lowell R.R., where he remained
for many years. Mr. MerriU took up his residence in Somerville in 18S0, and for fifteen years
has resided in Ward 4,- taking an active interest in the development of that section of
the city. He was elected to the City Council in 1889 and 1890, where he served
on important committees, and in the latter year was appointed to take charge of the detailed
work of the Somerville Water Board, a municipal department which has been rapidly grow
ing in importance with the development of the city. Mr. Merrill is a member of the N. E.
Water Works Association., of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., Caleb Rand Lodge, I. O. O.
F., Elm CouncU, Royal Arcanum, and other societies, in w-hich he has held offices of honor
and trust. Mink, Louis, was born December 29, 1836, in the province of Alsace, in France, the
son of Lawrence and Madeleine (Walder) Mink. He was educated in the schools of his
native country, and emigrated to America in i860, arriving here in X'ovember of that year.

598 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Soon after comintJ to this country he became connected with the tannery of WiUiam Muller
of North Cambridge, where he remained five years. In 1865 he embarked in the currying
business on his own account, on Haverhill street, Boston. In 1868 he removed to Pearl
street, and remained in that location until 1870, in which year he built the factory on the
corner of Beacon and Sacramento streets in this city, now occupied by C. H. Cushman &
Co., where he'Tconducted an extensive business in currying leather, employing nearly one
hundred men. In 1888 he retired from business, and since that time has not re-embarked
in it. Mr. Mink w-as married to Regina Fogel in 1865, and has seven chUdren, four sons
and three daughters. He resides at 85 Elm street.
Moore Henry''Martyn, was born in North Brookfield, Worcester County, in 1829, and
spent his early Hfe on a farm. In 1852 he came to Boston and entered the hat store of
James W. Lee,'where;he remained untfl 1857, when the firm fafled. The next year, with
Mr. Smith, his present partner, he bought out the business, and they have continued to
gether to the present time. They are now the oldest concern in Boston in their Une of
business. For about seventeen years Mr. Moore traveled part of the time, selling goods in
the West. Mr. Moore is weU known as one of the leading men of the Y. M. C. A. world,
and as such spreads the name and fame of Somerville wherever he goes.
It is as a member of the international committee that Mr. Moore and his work are
best known. This committee, composed of thirty-two prominent business-men, with head
quarters in New York, has charge of all the Y. M. C. A. work on the North American con
tinent, not only supervising the work of the existing associations, but also establishing and
encouraging new associations. The work on the committee requires a good share of Mr.
Moore's time, but he manages, in addition to this, to give considerable attention to other
Y. M. C. A. and church work. In 1872 he assisted in forming the Massachusetts state
committee of five, and he has been a member, with the exception of two years, ever since.
With Mayor Hodgkins and others, he was instrumental in forming the Somerville associa
tion a quarter of a century ago, and in its reorganization at a later period. He was president
of the association in 1894. Mr. Moore is president of the board of trustees of Mr.
Moody's Northfield Seminary, and is also trustee of Mt. Hermon School, having been inter
ested in them since their organization in 1880 and 1881. His connection with the Franklin-
street Church, of which he has always been a prominent member, dates back to 1865. For
fourteen years he has been deacon; he has also been chairman of the parish committee
superintendent of the Sunday-school, and has held other positions in the church and
Sunday-school. The only pubhc office in this city which Mr. Moore has held is that of
member of the School Committee. He began with the first board in 1872, and served
thirteen years, resigning when he found that his other work was getting too burdensome
for him. He has lived in Somerville since 1855. In 1865 he bought his present home at
82 Myrtle street. He married, in 1849, Mary Earle, a native of Belchertown, and has had
six children, three of whom are now living.
Moore, Ho-ward Dudley, the son of George and Charlotte C. Moore, was born at
Moore's Mills, New Brunswick, November 21, 1854. He is a direct descendant in the fifth
generation of William Moore, who came from Londonderry, Ireland, in 1709, and settled at
Londonderry, N. H. His son William was a Tory, and in 1785 removed to X'ew Bruns
wick, where he received from the Crown a grant of land near the St. Croix River, the present
location of the picturesque village of Moore's Mills. Young Moore attended the village
school during the winter months until he was fifteen, and when seventeen years of age he
went to Lawrence, Mass., where for two years he worked at a mechanical business, and for
three years was clerk in a law office. During the five years he was in Lawrence he took an
active part in temperance and other organizations. At the age of twenty-two he decided
to become a lawyer, and feehng the need of an education he fitted for college at Nichols'

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 599
Latin School, Lewiston, Me., graduating therefrom in 1880, and entered Bates CoUege with
the class of 1884, but was unable to pursue the college course. As a commercial traveler he
spent one year in the Southern States, and in 1S82 came to Boston, and w-as for three years
manager of the New England agency of the " People's Cyclopaedia." In the meantime he
kept up his studies, and in 1885 entered the Boston University School of Law, where he
graduated in 1887. He was admitted to the Suffolk bar the same year, and commenced
practice in Boston. Mr. Moore married Maud E. Roberts of Wollaston Heights in i8gi,
and at that time came to Somerville to reside. They have one chUd, a daughter. Mr.
Moore has been president of the West .Somerville Republican Club, a member of the Repub
lican City Committee, was a member of the Common Council of 1895, ^'^d a member of the
Board of Aldermen in 1896.
Moore, Hugh Tallant, son of John and Tabitha (Davis) Moore, was born in Canter
bury, N. H., in 1801, and died in 1855. He resided in Boston ten years, and moved to
.SomerviUe in 1840. He was a useful and esteemed citizen. At the time of his death he
held the following offices: treasurer and tax collector of the town, constable and overseer of
the poor, a funeral undertaker, and he was also one of the coroners of Middlesex County;
all these offices he held for several successive years. Mr. Moore left two chUdren : Mrs.
George W. Hadley and Mrs. Horace P. Makechnie.
Morse, Enoch R., was born in Attleboro, Mass., July 25, 1822. He established him
self in business in Boston in 1839, removing to SomerviUe in 1852. He took an active part
in town affairs, and was elected a member of the School Board in 1864. He held the position
nine years, until after the incorporation of the city, and by his literary attainments and
business experience was influential in promoting the educational interests of the town. He
represented the city in the Legislature in 1876. So highly were his services appreciated by
the town government that his name and memory were perpetuated in the Morse Grammar
School, erected in 1869 on Summer street, while on the records of four other schools he
appears as having been chosen to deliver the poem at the dedicatory exercises.
Ne-wton, Dr. Frank L. S., was born in Truro, Mass., April 9, 1857, the son of Dr.
Adin Hubbard Newton, a practicing physician, and .S. Anjenette Hatch, a lineal descendant
of Dr. Jacques Jerauld (Gerould), a Huguenot who emigrated to this country in the eight
eenth century. His boyhood was passed with his parents in his native town and Chatham.
He early became interested in the profession of his father, and in the pharmacy, subse
quently receiving the certificate of a registered pharmacist. In 1876 he accepted a position
as grammar-school master at Essex, and afterwards was principal of the Westport High
School. He took the medical degree of Boston University in 1884, and was house physi
cian in the Massachusetts Homoeopathic Hospital. He began the practice of medicine at
Provincetown, w-here he was appointed a medical examiner of Barnstable County by Gov
ernor Robinson, was a surgeon of the United States Marine Hospital service, and physician
to the Board of Health. Later he pursued a course of study in Europe in the General
Hospital clinics at Vienna, and the Rotunda Hospitals, Dublin, taking the degree of L. M.
After this year of study he came to Somerville, where he has since resided. He is a member
of Boston University Alumni Association, the Hahnemann Society, the Massachusetts and
the Boston Homoeopathic Medical Societies, and the American Institute of Homoeopathy.
In 1895 ^^ ^^^5 appointed a member of the medical board and medical and surgical staff of
the Somerville Hospital. May 6, 1886, Dr. Newton married Miss Josephine Louise Lewis
of Dartmouth, and they have two sons, Allison Lewis and Frank Hatch. Socially he is a.
member of the Central Club Association, Mystic Valley Club, the several Masonic lodges of
Somer\'Ule, De Molay Commandery of Knights Templar of Boston, and is a thirty-second
degree Mason.

6oo SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
Nichols, George Leslie, son of George N. and Mary Abby (Traverse) Nichols, was
born June 2, i860, at HoUiston, Mass,, and was educated in the grammar and high schools
of that town, he studied drawing under a private tutor with a view to adopting architecture
as a profession, and while engaged in that study worked at the carpenter's trade. At the
age of nineteen he had charge of buUding a $10,000 house and stable for George D. Ed
munds of Hopedale. He followed the occupation of master builder until he was twenty-
five years of age, when he began to practice the profession of architecture in South Fram-
iiigham, remainirig in that town nine years, and moving to Somerville in 1890.
In 1888 he became connected with W. T. Sears, architect of Boston, as Superintendent
of Construction, and was engaged in remodeling the Sears Building and in the construction
of Hotel Sanford, an apartment-house costing ^200,000, for Wm. T. Hart, president of the
Continental Bank. Mr. Nichols opened his present office at 70 Kilby street, Boston, in 1892,
since which time he has constructed Odd P'ellows' Building in North Cambridge, another
large apartment-house for Mr. Hart, the Van Choate Electric Company's Factory plant
at Foxborough, Mass., and other important buildings. He was married, June 18, 1885, to
Miss Mary Elizabeth Titcomb of Kennebunk, Me.; they have no children. Mr. Nichols is
a member of the Framingham Lodge 145, I. O. O. F., John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.,
.Monotomy Chapter, R. A. M.,New England Order of Protection, the Boston Architectural
Club, and the Boston Society of Architects. He resides at 20 Chapel street.
Nickerson, Alvano T., was born at Chatham, June 24, 1839, the son of Caleb and
JuUa A. (Hamilton) Nickerson of that place. He was educated in the district school, and
came to Boston in 1854. Prior to 1867 he was in business for himself in Chicago, as a
member of the firm of Ryder & Nickerson, since which time he has been in business alone
at Charlestown Bridge. Mr. Nickerson came to Somerville in 1882. He is a member of Paul
Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F., and a director of the Odd Fellows' Building Association, also a
trustee for the Twenty Associates, and a trustee of the SomerviUe Hospital. He served the
city in the Common Council of 1888 and 1889, and in the Board of Aldermen in 1890 and
1 89 1. He has also been a member of the Board of Health since 1893. Mr. Nickerson
married, in 1863, Laurietta Nickerson of Chatham. They reside at 334 Broadway.
Nickerson, John F., was born October 13, 1846, at Provincetown, Mass., son of
Jonathan J. and Rebecca D. Nickerson. He received his education in the Provincetown
schools and in the Green Mountain Institute at South Woodstock, Vt. He commenced
business in 1863 as clerk'with Whiton Brothers & Co. of Boston, and remained with them
about two years. He then took a position as bookkeeper with Hinckley Brothers & Co.,
but was, on account' of an accident, obliged to leave their employ after two years of service.
He subsequently engaged in the grocery business with T. D. Demond & Co., on Broad
street, was soon admitted to the firm, and some years later he purchased the entire business
which was then carried on under the firm name of John F. Nickerson & Co.; at the present
time it is a corporation known as the John F. X'ickerson Company, of which Mr. Nickerson
is the president. He is a member of .Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., the Boston Wholesale
Grocers' and Massachusetts Fish and Game Protective Associations, and the United Order of
Workmen. Mr. Nickerson was married to Georgiana P. Langmaid of Charlestown, Mass.,
June I, 1869; they have three daughters, and have resided at 25 Flint street since June i,
1869. He was two years a member of the Somerville Water Board, but the pressure of his
business has always prevented his holding other offices in the service of the city.
Norcross, Joseph Leland, was born in Woodbury, Vt., December 6, 1834. At the age
of twenty-one years he came to Boston, where he engaged in the teaming business, having
his headquarters at City Wharf until 1873, when he removed to his present place of business
at 212 State street. In January, i87i,he was married and became a resident of Somerville,
purchasing the estate No. 60 Marshall street, where he resides at the present time. Mr.

J. Leland Norcross.

Mrs. j. C. Nourse.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 603
.N'orcross has been identified with a number of Somerville institutions from their first incep
tion. He withdrew from Franklin Lodge, I. O. O. F., of Boston, to assist in the orgairiza-
tion of Paul Revere Lodge of this city, and has been treasurer of that lodge since its founda
tion in 1878. He is also a charter member of Winter Hill Encampment. In 1884, when
the Odd Fellows organized a building committee to erect the substantial brick building on
the corner of Broadway and ^larshall street, Mr. X'orcross was elected treasurer of the
building association, a position which he has retained untfl the present time. He has always
been actively interested in the Winter Hill Universalist Church, which he assisted to organize
in June, 1878. In 1879 and 1880 he served the city as a Common Councilman, and in the
two following years as an Alderman. Mr. Norcross has been one of the directors of the
Master Teamsters' Association of Boston since its formation, and is now president of the
association. Nourse, Mrs. J. C., daughter of Tappan and Katie (Cummings) Libby, was born in
Scarborough, Me., August 28, 1854. She was educated in the public schools of her native
town, and in the Casco-street Seminary of Portland. In 1875 ^^^ "'^^ married to Mr.
Charles Nourse. In 1881, her natural tastes being for a business life, she commenced in a
rather small way in North Cambridge, where she continued until the autumn of 1886, when
she removed to Davis square, and occupied the store Nos. 10 and 11 in Medina Building.
Her increasing business in the years that followed demanding more room, she arranged to
have one-half of the new Chapin Building finished and furnished to suit her ideas of what a
modern dry goods store should be, and when it was ready for occupancy, she removed from
her old quarters in June, 1896, and now has in the new store what is termed by a dry goods
journal of X'ew York " the largest establishment of the kind in New England, managed by
a lady." Her emporium is arranged in an exceedingly attractive manner, and her continued
increasing patronage demonstrates that her efforts to give the residents of West Somerville
and vicinity a first-class dry goods store are appreciated.
Noyes, Frank A., was born at Auburn, Me., May 9, 1850. After receiving his edu
cation at the public schools of that city, and the Auburn Commercial College, he secured a
position in Portland, where he remained for three years, as bookkeeper for J. H. Cressey &
Co. In 1872 the firm removed to Boston, locating at 208 State street, with w-hom he con
tinued for ten years, and then entered the firm as Cressey & Noyes, remaining there untU the
completion of the Chamber of Commerce Building in 1892. There he is now located as a
member of the firm of Noyes & Colby, in the wholesale grain business. JSlr. Noyes has been
connected w-ith the grain trade of Boston for the past tw-enty-four years, and is favorably
known throughout New England and the West. He is a member of the Boston Chamber
of Commerce, and is now one of the directors of that institution.
In 1874 he married Miss Anna R. Mason of Portland, Me., and they selected Somer
vUle for their future home, and have since that time been residents of this city. Mr. Noyes
has always taken an interest in fraternal organizations, and is a member of Soley Lodge, F.
A. A. M., Excelsior Council, R. A., Sons of Maine, and is a past officer of Oasis Lodge,
Somerville Encampment, Ivaloo Rebekah Lodge, I. O. O. F., Highland Chapter, Order
Eastern Star, and at the present time is associate grand patron, O. E. S. of Massachusetts.
He resides at 95 Highland avenue.
Park, Elbridge G., was born in Ashby, Mass., in 1839. He received his education in
the district and high schools of his native town, and came to Boston in i860, and engaged in
the produce trade, in which he remained two years. He then entered the restaurant busi
ness, and has continued in it for over thirty years, conducting large and successful establish
ments at No. 30 North Market and 123 Causeway streets, Boston, under the firm names of
Durgin, Park & Co., and E. G. Park & Co. He removed from Charlestown to East Somer
ville in 1874, and has resided here since that time.

Elbridge G. Park.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 605
In 1884 he represented Ward i in the Common Council, and was re-elected in 1885.
He served on the Board of Aldermen in 1886 and 1887, and was president of the board the
last-named year, serving on some of the most important committees. Mr. Park is a member
of the .Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., and the Cceur de Lion Commandery, K. T., of Charlestown;
he is also a member of the Howard Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., of Charlestown.
Parker, Frederick Wesley, was born in Boston, May 9, 1863, son of Jerome W. and
Ann Eliza (Wright) Parker. He is of old X'ew England stock, being a direct descendant,
in the eighth generation, of Francis Cook, who came over in the Mayflower in 1620. Mr.
Parker received a good common-school education, and at the age of seventeen took a minor
clerkship in the banking office of Perkins, Dupee & Co., 40 State street. He rose rapidly, and
in 1888 engaged in business on his own account, forming with Arthur W. Sawyer and Hazen
Clement the firm of Sawyer, Clement & Co. In 1892 Mr. Sawyer retired, and the firm became
Clement, Parker & Co., and continues as such at the present time, being located at 53 Devonshire
street, Boston. They have been successful, and are quoted among the leading firms in the bank
ing business. Mr. Parker served in the Common Council of Somerville in 1894 and 1895, and
was on the Finance and Public Property Committees. He is a director in the Somerville
National Bank ; a member of John Abbot Lodge, F..\.A.M.; Somerville Chapter, R. A. M.;
Orient Council, and De Molay Commandery; is also a member of the Central Club, the
Charlestown Club, the Exchange Club of Boston, and the " Society of Mayflower Descend
ants." He married Miss Nellie E. Blodgett of Cambridge, June 15, 1887; they have one
child, Mildred, and reside at 65 Boston street.
Parsons, Horace M., the son of Daniel W. and Mary P. Parsons, was born in Rock-
port, Mass., in 1864. When three months of age his parents moved to Boston, residing at
the historical " X'orth End," and the son attended the famous Eliot School, going subse
quently to the English High. Young Parson's first situation was at the drug store of Theo
dore Metcalf & Co., but fifteen years ago he entered the employ of Bigelow, Dowse & Ma
comber, as a boy, and has remained with this concern ever since, working his way up through
various grades, until he is now head bookkeeper and cashier of the leading hardware corpora
tion in New England. Nine years ago he was married to Annie L. MiUett, but she died soon
after their marriage. In March, 1895, ^^ married Sadie G. Saurman, and they now reside
in an attractive home on Prospect Hill. When the Somerville Light Infantry was being reor
ganized, young Parsons, then twenty-two years of age, offered himself as a member. He was
then six feet and four inches tall, and was a striking figure in the company. He was made
a sergeant Sept. 9, 1887, and less than two years afterwards second and then first lieutenant.
Upon the discharge of Captain Kirk he was elected captain, and has held the position for
nearly five years, with great credit and marked ability. He was recently elected a major of
the Eighth Infantry, but declined the position.
Parkhurst, Melville C, chief of police of the city of Somerville, was born in Stand
ish, Me., April 26, 1842, son of John L. and Marcia (Harriman) Parkhurst. He was edu
cated there and came to Somerville in 1857. August 12, 1862, he enlisted in Company E
ot SomervUle, Thirty-Ninth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers. He was in defense of
Washington until 1863, and then was sent with the Army of the Potomac, and was in all its
great batdes from the Wilderness to Appomattox. June 5, 1865, he was mustered out as
lieutenant, the governor having issued to him a commission as captain, on which, however,
the war being over, he was not mustered in, although he had for several months commanded
his company as captain in the field. May 29, 1868, he received his appointment to the Somer
viUe poUce force. He was appointed captain, April i, 1871, and chief, in January, 1872. It
is a noteworthy fact that Chief Parkhurst has made himself so familiar with criminal la^^
that in all important cases in Somervflle he conducts personally the case of the government.
He also drew the petition and drafted the biU passed by the Legislature in 1 882, giving poUce

Frederick W. Parker.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT. 607
officers authority to send samples of liquor seized on search warrants to the state or other
authorized assayer — thus making it possible to learn accurately and officially if such liquor
contains more than the three per cent of alcohol aUowed by law. Chief Parkhurst is a mem
ber of John Abbot Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, and Cceur de
Lion Commandery, K. T., and of several other local fraternal organizations. In 1865 he was
married to Mary E., daughter of James and Ruth (Butler) Coolidge of Waltham, by whom
he has two children.
Perkins, George W., son of True and Mary Ann (Chapman) Perkins, was born in
Tamworth, N. H., July i, 1842. He was educated in the common schools of his native town,
and in the New Hampton Institution, X'ew Hampton, X'. H. He taught in New Hampshire
two years, and then came to Boston, where he entered the dry goods business, in which he
remained three years. For the six following years he occupied the position of traveling
salesman for A. Showe dv: Co., wholesale tea and coffee dealers, was then admitted a member
of the firm, and is now manager of the business. Mr. Perkins has resided in Somerville for
twenty-five years. lie represented this city in the House of Representatives in 1891, and
served as chairman of the committee on drainage. He was re-elected in 1892, and served on
the committee on cities. In 1895 he was elected to the Senate, and was chairman of the
committee on printing, and a member of the committees on education and on metropolitan
affairs. In 1896 he was again elected to the Senate, and served as chairman of the com
mittee on public service, and as a member of the conimittees on education and metropolitan
affairs. He married Miss Minerva R. Berry of Westminster, Vt., and they reside at 3 Pearl
street. Mr. Perkins is a member of the Royal Arcanum, the A. O. U.W., a trustee of the Som
erville Hospital, of .Somervflle Masonic Apartments, a member of the Webcowit Social Club,
and a. member of the Knights of Honor. He is past master of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M.,
member of the SomerviUe R. A. Chapter, the Orient Council of Select Masters, and is senior
warden of the De Molay Commandery, K. T., of Boston. He is also a member of the
Massachusetts Republican Club, the Mystic Valley Club, and the Metropolitan Young Men's
Republican Club.
Perry, Albion A., was born in Standish, Me., January 26, 1851, the son of Rev. John
C. and Mary E. (Boston) Perry. He was educated in the public schools and at ftf onmouth
.-\cademy. He came to Somerville in 1869, and for several years carried on the drug busi
ness with marked success. He fitted himself for the profession of pharmacist at the Mas
sachusetts CoUege of Pharmacy. After retiring from the drug business he took up the study
of law at the Boston University School of Law, and later opened an office in Somerville. In
1886 he associated himself with Hon. S. Z. Bowman, and the partnership has continued to
the present time. Mr. Perry has served the city in many different capacities. He was elected
to the School Board, but served only one year, 1876, resigning on account of his business,
which demanded his time. He was a member of the Common Council in 1881 and 1882,
being president the second term. In 1883-1884 he was in the Board of Aldermen. He was
appointed on ihe Water Board by Mayor Pope in 1891 for two years, and was president of the
board both years. At the end of his term he was urged strongly by Mayor Hodgkins to ac
cept reappointment. In 1895 he was elected to the office of mayor after one of the warmest
political contests ever held in this State, was re-elected in 1896, and he has filled the office
with an ability that has commanded the respect of everyone.
Mr. Perry was elected president of the Somerville Savings Bank after the death of Oren
S. Knapp in 1891, a position he still holds, and he has show n his qualifications as a financier,
by building up a strong institution, the business of the bank during the five years that he has
held the office having had a tremendous growth; he is also a director in the Somerville Na
tional Bank. Mr. Perry has ever shown the liveliest interest in all matters relating to the
welfare of Somerville, and has discharged the duties of every office to which he has been

6o8 SOMERVILLE, P.IST AND PRESENT.
called with the utmost fidelity and conscientiousness. Mr. Perry married Mary E., daughter
of John W. and Hannah W. Brooks of this city.
Perry, Oliver H., son of David and Phebe Perry, and a descendant of Commodore Oli
ver Hazard Perry, w-as born at Chatauqua, X'. Y. When about ten years of age his parents
removed to Plattsburg, N. Y., where he was educated in the common schools and at Clinton
Academy. He has been engaged in the real estate and insurance business for the past twelve
years in West Somerville, with an office at Davis square and another at 31 Milk street, Bos
ton. He married Miss Harriet Gilmore of Hillsboro, N. H., and has a family of six sons and
two daughters. Since 1890 he has been secretary and treasurer of the West SomerviUe Co
operative Bank, of which he was the originator. The bank, which began with an issue of
eight hundred and ten shares for its first series, has shown a constant growth from its in
ception, and now has assets of over Si 50,000. It has proved a great incentive to very many
West Somerville residents, especially the young, to lay by a portion of their earnings, and a
great help to a large number who have bought homes through its agency.
Mr. Perry is well known in the city as an active and industrious man, and has a large
clientele in his various lines of business. He built his first residence eight years ago at 373
Elm street, on what was known as the old Powder House farm. Three years later the first
house was moved away, and another and finer one was erected, in which he now resides. He
has also built for others, and sold a large number of houses in that locality. The Nathan
Tufts Park, lately constructed by the city, enclosing the old Powder House, makes this lo
cality one of the most desirable for residential purposes in Somerville. Mr. Perry is a mem
ber of the John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., a charter member of Caleb Rand Lodge, 1. O.
O. F., a member of Golden Cross Commandery of West Somerville, and a member of the
Park-avenue M. E. Church.
Phillips, Franklin Folsom, son of James and Mary (Prescott) Phillips, was born in
Searsmont, Me., December 21, 1852. He was educated at the town schools of Searsmont
and Montville, at the Nichols Latin School, and at Bates College, Lewiston, Me., receiving
the degree of A. M. on the completion of his studies. After graduating he taught in Bolton,
Mass., and in Lisbon and Rockland, Me., being principal of the High School at the latter
place five years. He w-as commissioned State Assayer of Maine in 1880 for a term of four
years. Siiice 1883 he has been connected with the old and extensive chemical manufactur
ing house of Harrison Bros. & Co., of Philadelphia and New York, his w-ork being both tech
nical and commercial. He has served in the city government four years, 1890-1894, two
years in the Common Council and two in the Board of Aldermen, and was a member of the
committees on ordinances, sewers, fire department, public property and finance, serving on
the latter committee the entire four years. Mr. Phillips is much engrossed with his business,
but takes a deep interest in public matters. In politics he is a Republican, and as such was
elected a member of the General Court in 1896. He resides at 211 Holland street.
Pillsbury, Luther B., was born in Bridgewater, N. IT. He worked on the farm in
early life, and by his own efforts was fitted for college at the X'ew Hampshire Institution, and
graduated in the class of 1859 at Dartmouth CoUege. He taught whUe yet a student, be
ginning his first school before his sixteenth birthday. After graduating he taught in Can
ton, in the Reading Tligh School, the Hopkinton and Bridgewater High Schools, the Pres
cott Grammar and Charlestown High School. He had great influence with his pupils. .\
teacher, having an intimate acquaintance with Mr. Pillsbury's methods, asserting that he
" never saw a man who could keep such good order with so little apparent effort as he."
Mr. PiUsbury was unanimously elected to the Common Council of .Somerville, and in 1878
was president of that body, receiving all the votes but his own and one other. He has for
several years been engaged in the real estate and insurance business, and is located at 316
Broadway. Lie resides at 45 Sargent avenue. .Mr. PiUsbury has been twice married. His

Franklin F. Phillips.

6lo SO.MERVILLE, P.IST AND PRESENT.
first wife was Miss Mary A. Leathe of Reading, the author of " Old MUl and other Poems ";
and his second, Mrs. Mary A. Libby of Somerville. He has four chUdren : Edwin B., who
is engaged in newspaper work; Ernest D., a practicing physician; May F., a teacher; and
Harry N., the famous chess-player.
Pitman, Henry W., was born in Boston, May 17, 1845, ^'^ 5°" °f David F. and
CaroUne C. Pitman. He was educated in the Eliot and Latin High Schools of Boston. He
moved to Medford when thirteen years of age. After leaving school he engaged in various
occupations, and entered journalism twenty-eight years ago. He has been connected with
Boston dailies and weeklies in various capacities, from the lowest to the highest positions.
For seventeen years he was connected with the " Somerville Journal," but is now engaged in
general newspaper work. He is a member of several fraternal organizations, and is a thirty-
second degree Mason. When the Somerville Light Infantry was reorganized, largely through
his efforts, he was elected first lieutenant, and was subsequently chosen captain. He was
adjutant-general of the semi-centennial parade in Somerville in 1892, and has been identi
fied with many events in the city's history. Captain Pitman has always taken a lively
interest in politics, and for sixteen years has been secretary of the Middlesex County Re
publican Committee. He married Miss Lottie A., daughter of Simeon and Mary Jenkins,
at Medford, June 5, 1867. They have four children.
Poole, George S., was born in Worcester, the youngest of a family of six children.
His parents were Eliza (Wilder) and Ward Poole, the latter a descendant of the seventh
generation of John Poole, who came from Reading, England, and settled first in Cambridge
(1632) and later at Reading (1639), where he was one of the leading proprietors. George
S. Poole attended school at Worcester and at Peabody (formerly South Danvers), and while
at the Peabody High School was assistant librarian of the Peabody Library. Before gradu
ating at the High School, he spent nearly two years with a brother, a mining engineer at
Pottsville, Pa. Coming home, he went to the Phillips Academy at Andover. In 1861 he
became the first librarian of the Charlestown Public Library, which position he held for
two years, when he accepted a position of assistant librarian of the Library of Congress at
Washington. In 1865 he resigned, having been appointed the secretary of the Warren
Institution for Savings, which position he still holds. He has been the treasurer of the Win
throp Church, Charlestown, for over twenty years. He was on the School Board of Charles
town, and is at present one of the School Committee of Somerville, is also on the board
of managers of the Winchester Home for Aged Women at Charlestown, the Congregational
Church Union, and the City Missionary Society of Boston. He is auditor of the Boston
Congregational Club, a member of the Boston Bank Officers' Association, Henry Price
Lodge, F. A- A. M., Royal Arcanum, Corinthian Yacht Club of Marblehead, is the sec
retary of the .Marblehead-N'eck Hall Association, a member of the Alumni Association of
Phillips Academy and the Bunker Hill Monument Association. He married, in 1871, Sarah
Poor Osborne, the daughter of Franklin and Nancy Poor (Jacobs) of Peabody; and his
children are Franklin Osborne (H. C, 1895), Edith Wilder, and Irving.
Poor, Franklin N., was born in Goffstown, N. H., January 23, 1821. He remained at
home, engaged wdth his father, the Hon. Noyes Poor, in the lumber business, until he reached
the age of twenty-seven, when he accepted the position of treasurer of the Manchester and
North Weare Railroad Company. Since that time his interest has centered mainly in rail
roads. He came to Boston in 1852, and was a prominent director in the Vermont and
Massachusetts and Fitchburg Railroad Companies for many years. In 1864 he became
treasurer of the Vermont and Massachusetts RaUroad Company, the position he still holds,
serving meantime as trustee of estates, etc. He removed to Somerville in 1871, and resides
at 30 Chester street. He was a member of the Board of Aldermen in 1874, is a justice of the
peace, and is one of our well-known and most respected citizens.

SO.MERVILLE, P.IST AND PRESENT. 6 II
Pope, Charles G., was born in Hardwick, Mass., X'ovember i8, 1840, the son of Rev.
Rufus S. and Sarah (Brown) Pope, of that town. He was educated in the district school of
Hyannis, whither his parents had removed in his boyhood, was fitted for college at the Pierce
Academy, Middleboro, and was graduated at Tufts College in 1861. He taught school at
Hyannis till 1864, when he became master of the Forster Grammar School in Somerville.
In 1870 he became master of the Bunker Hill Grammar School, Charlestown. Mr. Pope
studied law with Sweetzer & Gardner and John \\'. Hammond, and was admitted to the bar
in 1874, when he formed a partnership with Mr. Hammond for the practice of law in Boston.
In 1878 he was appointed a special justice of the Somerville police court. Mr. Pope came
to SomerviUe in 1864, and served in the Common Councils of 1872 and 1873, being President
of the Council the latter year. In 1876 and 1877 he represented the city in the Legislature,
and was Mayor in 1889, 1890 and 1891. He was a trustee of the PubUc Library seven years.
He w-as also a trustee of Tufts College. Mr. Pope married Miss Josephine H., daughter of
Erastus E. and Harriet N. Cole, of this city. During Mr. Pope's last year of office as Mayor,
the Charles G. Pope School on Washington street was completed and named in his honor.
Pratt, Josiah N., was bom in Freeport, Me., March 14, 1838. He attended the
public schools of that town, and at the age of eighteen apprenticed himself to learn the
mason's trade. He worked at that occupation in Portland, Me., three years, being employed
on Fort Gorges, Portland Harbor, as a skilled mechanic. He enlisted in the United States
X'avy, and was sent to the Gulf Squadron which was stationed at Mobile Bay; his term of
service expired September i, 1865. After the great fire in Portland in 1886, Mr. Pratt was
in charge of the construction of some of the most prominent buildings in the city. In 1868
he moved to Lawrence, Mass., where he carried on the business of builder. About 1882
he entered the employ of the Jarvis Engineering Co. as mechanical superintendent; after a
short service in that position he was given the agency of the company for Maine, New-
Hampshire and the lower maritime provinces. He was subsequently transferred to the
agency for the Middle States, with his office in X'ew York City; and was finally, in 1887, ap
pointed treasurer and general manager of the parent company, with office at 61 Oliver street,
Boston, which position he still holds. Mr. Pratt has served our city in the Common Coun
cil, and was elected a member of the Board of Aldermen from ^Vard r in 1895 ^^^ 1896.
He is a member of Bethany Commandery, K. T., Royal Arch Chapter, Soley Lodge,
F. .\. A. M., Knights of Honor, and the Grand Army of the RepubUc. He resides at 33
Franklin street.
Prichard, John P., is the son of A. P. and Mary J. Prichard, and was born in Charles
town, educated at old Training Field and other schools, and had a boyhood which fitted him
to meet life in any phase that might come to him. He was a conductor and then road
master of the old Middlesex Horse Railroad for many years. During Mayor Belknap's term
of service he was elected .Superintendent of Streets, and his ability showed itself in every
possible way. After going to Everett for one year to fill the same position, he then left to
go to Quincy as its Street Superintendent. After two years the town changed to a city, and
Mr. Prichard was elected the first Commissioner of Public Works. He planned and caused
to be built under his immediate supervision the Neponset Bridge, and proved his abUity to
build bridges with the same skill in which he had built the roads in this city and elsewhere.
When the new city of Medford needed a Superintendent of Streets, Mayor Lawrence wisely
appointed Mr. Prichard to the position, and he put into his work the same earnestness,
efficiency and honesty that had always characterized his efforts. He won the respect and
admiration of the City Council and the citizens, and was gaining friends when, in January,
1896, he was called back to Somerville, to again serve her as he had so ably done in the
many years he was here. The streets, at once, put on a new look, and much new work and
many improvements are now on the way.

John P. Prichard.

SOMERVILLE, ^.IST .4ND PRESENT. 613
That Mr. Prichard is an adept in his fine has been many times exemplified. He has
made addresses, written much, and on one occasion, among twenty-one competitors for the
Engineering Record " prize, he was the leader. It is needless to recite further of his quali
fications. His tact to manage men, his knowledge and dexterity are all known by the
results he has achieved. Mr. Prichard married early in life, and has two sons, George W.
and Charles E., and a daughter, Mrs. Emma Prichard Hadley, the reader wife of Walter M.
Hadley. , His great-grandfather on his mother's side was a participant in throwing the tea
into Boston Harbor, living at Charlestown at the time. When Charlestown was burned, this
ancestor went to Maiden, but returned, roofed the cellar over, and for a long time he and
his family lived therein. -Mr. Prichard is a veteran fireman, a Knight Templar, Knight of
Honor, Companion in the Royal Arcanum, a member of the Training Field School Associa
tion, and a Universalist.
Proctor, George 0., was born in Rockingham, Vt., February 23, 1847, ^"d is ^
descendant of the well-known Proctor family of that State. His early Ufe was passed on the
farm, and his education was obtained in the schools of his native town and in the Chester,
Vt., Academy. He followed the occupation of farming and lumbering untfl 1874, when he
came to Boston and formed a copartnership with his brother in the grain business, under
the firm name of Proctor Brothers. They located at the corner of Charles and Leverett
streets, at the end of Craigie Bridge, where they conducted a successful business, until the
construction of the Charles River Park compelled them to seek a new location; this they
found at the Cambridge end of the bridge, where they now remain, theirs being one of the
largest establishments in the hay and grain trade in the vicinity of Boston. Mr. Proctor
was married in 1869 to Lillie A., daughter of Captain Thomas R. Clark of Chester, Vt.,
who served through the War of the Rebellion in Company E, Sixth Regiment. In 1880 he
purchased the estate on which he stfll resides, at 44 Spring street. Spring Hifl. He was
elected to the Common Council in 1887 and 1888, and served as president of that body in
the latter year, and as a member of the School Committee. He was elected a member of
the Legislature in 1892, and served on the committee on street railways, and w-as re-elected
in 1893, and was placed on the committee on cities. Mr. Proctor is a director of the
Somerville X'ational Bank, and is a member of the Boston Chamber of Commerce, Somer
ville Central Club, Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Winter HiU Commandery, Golden Cross,
Washington Council, Home Circle, Delft Haven Colony of Pilgrim Fathers, and the First
Unitarian Church.
Ralph, Mrs. Harriet A., was born in Camden X'. J., March 20, 1851, and is a
daughter of the late Joseph P. and Hannah E. Myers. .She was educated in the public and
private schools of Boston, where her parents resided for many years. In 1874 she married
William N. Ralph, and has lived in Somerville twenty-tw-o years. She has been prominent
in church work, and also in the woman's branch of Odd Fellowship, her husband being one
of the leading Odd Fellows in Massachusetts. She has been treasurer of Ivaloo Lodge,
Daughters of Rebekah, and higher offices in its gift have been tendered her. It is, how
ever, in societies founded on patriotic work that Mrs. Ralph is best known. The late
Brigadier-General William W. Bullock was her uncle, and her father was a lieutenant in
Company G, Eleventh Massachusetts Regiment. She was a member of the Ladies' Aid
Society, formed in 1871 as an auxiliary to Joseph Hooker Post of East Boston. She is a
charter member of Willard C. Kinsley Relief Corps of Somerville, and has served as presi
dent and secretary. She has been prominent in state conventions, and in 1886 she was
elected department treasurer. After serving with great efficiency for three years, she
declined a re-election, on account of illness, but served as a member of the Department
Executive Board two successive years. She was prominent in the arrangements for national
encampment week in Boston in 1S90, and a member of the Executive and other W. R. C.

6X4 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
Committees. She was a delegate-at-large to this convention, and as chairman of the
Finance Committee had charge of several thousand dollars contributed to the encampment
fund by the corps. Mrs, Ralph has been department junior vice-president, department
press correspondent, and in 1893 ^"^ 1^94 was department chaplain. Owing to illness in
her home she declined to be a candidate for the office of department president. Mrs. Ralph
has also been active in the Ladies' Aid Association of the Soldiers' Home in Massachusetts,
serving on the committee that drafted its constitution, and as corresponding secretary of
the association for three years. Upon declining a re-election in 1886, a valuable silver
service was presented her, accompanied by an engrossed testimonial expressing the regard
of the members and their appreciation of her efficient services. In public and private life
Mrs. Ralph has the esteem of all her associates.
Ralph, William H., was born in Kingston, Ont., June 12, 1849; soon after his birth
his parents moved to Cambridge, Mass., and he was educated in the schools of that city. In
1868 he entered the employ of Messrs. Andrews and Stevens, provision dealers, 47 Brom
field street, Boston, remaining with that firm until 1880, when he formed a copartnership
with F. M. Reed, and located at 53 Charles street, Boston. In February, 1896, the firm
dissolved, and Mr. Ralph entered the firm of J. W. Smith & Co., at 17 Faneuil Hall square,
Boston. In May, 1874, he married Miss Harriet A. Myers, only daughter of Lieutenant
Joseph P. Myers, a veteran of the Civil War, and in September of the same year he became
a resident of Somerville, and immediately identified himself with its social and public
interests. In i88i he united with Oasis Lodge, I. O. O. F., and has served in many of the
offices, and for several years was active in committee work; as past grand of Oasis Lodge
he entered the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and has served that body on prominent
committees. He is also past chief patriarch of SomerviUe Encampment, I. O. O. F. ; and in
February, 1895, was elected grand junior warden of the Grand Encampment of Massa
chusetts, serving one year, but owing to change of business was obliged to decline further
advancement; he has served as district deputy grand patriarch, the district comprising
Waltham and Stoneham.
When the military branch of Odd Fellowship was organized, he entered heartily into
its plans; in 1886 was elected commandant of Canton Washington, serving three years;
while holding this office he organized a drill corps; in 1888 they entered the international
competitive drill, which took place in Cincinnati, O., this corps winning three prizes; for
several years the corps was well known throughout the State for its efficiency in display
drill, giving many exhibitions. On retiring from the office of commandant, he was elected
colonel of the Second Regiment, Patriarchs Militant, holding the commission two years. In
the semi-centennial procession in 1892 Mr. Ralph commanded the fourth division, which
comprised the Masonic and Odd Fellow organizations of this city. He is also past grand
of Ivaloo Lodge No. 7, D. of R. ; past regent. Excelsior Council No. 3, Royal Arcanum;
and a member of John Abbot Lodge, A. F. and A. M., and of Winter Hill Lodge No. 18,
A. O. U. W.
Raymond, Francis H., was born in Charlestown, February 19, 1836, the son of
Francis L. and Abigail (Fosdick) Raymond. Lie attended the public schools of the town,
and after leaving the high school entered the employ of J. B. Llanson, in the wholesale
grocery business in Boston. Lie was afterwards with Robinson & Holbrook, and in 1865 the
firm of Robinson, Nourse & Raymond was formed. F. H. Raymond & Co. were its successors.
In 1876 Mr. Raymond left the grocery business and became treasurer of the American Arms
Company, in which he was interested. Two years later he was chosen treasurer of the Cam
bridge Electric Light Company, which position he now holds. He has been a director of the
Market National Bank for the past twenty-two years. Mr. Raymond was a trustee of the
PubUc Library in 1876, 1877 and 1878. In 1887 he was elected to represent Ward 2 in the

Residence of Lyman B. Rich, 38 1 Medford Street.

Wilfred B. Rich.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 617
House of Representatives, where he served three years, 1888, 1889 and 1890. He was
Senator in 1891 and 1892, and a member of the Governor's Council in 1895 and 1896. Mr.
Raymond married Martha L., daughter of Samuel T. and Sarah (Hobbs) Frost, of .Somer
ville. They reside on Laurel street.
Raymond, Marcus M., was born in Boxboro, Mass., February 1, 1841, son of X'athan
and Hannah (Hapgood) Raymond. He received his education in the schools of Boxboro,
Princeton and Lowell, and after leaving school worked five years on the farm; he then
learned the machinist's trade at Lowell, and worked at it six years. He subsequently came
to Boston, and embarked in the milk business, in which he was engaged about thirty years.
After a residence of six years in Charlestow-n he came to Somerville in 1873, and located on
Jaques street, in the house which he now occupies. Mr. Raymond is n member of Winter
Hill Lodge, Knights of Honor, and represents Ward 3 in the City Council.
Reed, Nathan H., son of Nathan 0. and Nancy (Bacon) Reed, was born in Bedford,
Mass., May 25, 1848. He finished his education at Lawrence Academy, Groton, and came
to Somerville twenty-seven years ago. He has served the city as Councilman, Alderman,
Overseer of the Poor, and is now one of the principal assessors. Mr. Reed has been for
seven years chairman of the standing committee of the First Unitarian Church, and has
been treasurer of the Associated Charities of Somerville since its organization. He was en
gaged in the provision business for many years, — later in real estate, and at the present time
at the foundry on Washington street, and has now many interests in real estate in Somerville
and elsewhere. Mr. Reed is a member of Soley Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Oasis Lodge,
I. O. 0. F., and Washington Council, Home Circle. He married Clara B. Parker of Billerica,
and they have two children, Nathan Parker and Mary Baldwin. He resides in a handsome
residence, erected by him during the past year at 35 Pearl street.
Rich, Lyman B., was born at Truro, Mass., in 1834, the son of Zephaniah and Betsey
(Bangs) Rich. He was educated in the public schools and in the academy, of which Joshua
H. Davis, former superintendent of Somerville schools, was principal. He married Mary
Ellen Mayo, daughter of Captain Nehemiah and Eunice B. (Stone) Mayo, and has one child.
He, like many others of the sons of Cape Cod, began to " follow the sea " when quite young,
and at the early age of eighteen he became a captain. His voyages, which have been many
and to various ports, terminated with a trip to the Mediterranean and to South America, on
which voyage he was accompanied by his family. Since retiring from life on the ocean, in
1878, he has been engaged in the ship brokerage business and steamboat agency, and is a
member of the firm of Atwood & Rich, 83 Commercial Wharf, Boston. Captain Rich re
moved from Provincetown to Somerville in 1878. He is a member of King Hiram Lodge,
F. A. A. M., and Joseph Warren Chapter of Provincetown; is also a member of the Boston
Marine Society. He resides at 381 Medford street.
Rich, Wilfred Babson, the son of Ransom and P. Laurette (Chase) Rich, was born
in Jackson, Me., April 21, 1855. His ancestors were, on both sides, among the earliest
pioneers of the State. In his infancy his parents moved to Bangor, Me., and in his seven
teenth year to Brooks, in the same State. At this time he had completed the studies then
taught in the public schools, but was not satisfied with this, and during the next five years,
depending almost wholly on his own efforts, by teaching school during the winter months,
he obtained a liberal education, attending the state college at Orono and the Maine Central
Institute at Pittsfield, Me. In 1877 he entered the law office of Hon. A. W. Paine at Bangor,
where he chiefly acquired his legal education, and was admitted to the Penobscot bar in 1880.
He at once entered into the active practice of his profession, and the same year conducted
the defense in theweU-known Meservey-Dunton trial, receiving especial notice from the press.
While a student he had taken much interest in politics, making several campaign speeches.
He became chairman of the Republican town committee, and in 1882, with Mr. Simonton,

6l8 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESEAT.
obtained control of the " Camden Herald," of which he was assistant editor for three years.
The same year he was appointed Postmaster by President Arthur, which office he held until
near the expiration of his term of four years, when he resigned, after the inauguration of
President Cleveland. The same year, 1885, he moved to Boston, since which time he has
been engaged in the practice of law, in which he has been very successful. He has had the
settlement of several large estates. He came to Somerville in 1886, but took no part in
politics for several years, when he became a member of the ward and city committee, and w-as
elected a member of the Common Council from Ward i for the years 1893 and 1894, and
was a member of the Board of Aldermen the foUowing year. He has been treasurer of the
Webcowit Club, a member and ex-president of the Owl Club, and past leader of Harvard
Councfl No. 51, Home Circle. His residence is at 13 Franklin street.
Robinson, Enoch, was born in Boston in 1801. At seven years of age he was
at work with his father, and his early habits of industry, thus acquired, never deserted
him. When he was a young man he engaged in business with his brothers in Boston, in the
manufacture of ship trimmings and the ship-steering apparatus used fifty years ago. He
subsequently went into the hardware business, making door-knobs and locks, and was located
on Brattle street for many years. In 1847 ^^ moved from Boston to Somerville, locating on
Spring HiU, which was then nothing but a pasture, and in 1856 he erected the celebrated
"round house," which is illustrated in this volume. The house is perfectly circular in form,
and is probably the only building of its kind used as a residence in this portion of the country.
It is three stories high, the upper story being smaller in diameter than the two below it,
leaving a balcony above the second story. The interior arrangements of the house are in
keeping with its novel form. On one side of the front hall is the library, a circular room with
one window. In its center is a small circular table, and in the walls are alcoves for books.
On the other side of the hall is the parlor, oval in shape, lighted by two windows, and having
an oval table in the center. The front hall leads to a circular entry-way in the center of the
house, from which opens the dining-room and the kitchen. From the central entry-way of
the first story a stairway leads to a similar entry in the second story, the stairs following the
circular walls of the house. From the upper entry open five chambers, with radiating parti
tion walls. On the third floor is a circular balcony, which commands a view of the entries
below, while above is a glass dome, which lights them all. Mr. Robinson was a charter
member of the East Cambridge Lodge of Odd Fellows, and John Abbot Lodge of Masons, of
this city. He died in February, 1888.
Rowell, Cromwell Gibbs, son of Aaron and Ruth (Brown) Rowell, was born at Cor
inth, Vt., August 29, 1827. His education was obtained at the district school and at the
academy at Framingham, Mass., to which town his parents had removed in his childhood.
His first employment on leaving home was obtained on the sea, and he followed the calling
nearly seven years; he then united with his father in the stove business at Framingham. in
1854 he entered the police force of the city of Boston, and remained a member thereof until
the opening of the Civil War. He was instrumental in raising the Ninth Regiment, Massa
chusetts Volunteers, in which he was captain of Company D, and afterwards appointed
lieutenant-colonel. Subsequently he raised a company which was attached to the Thirtieth
Regiment. At the close of the war he re-embarked in the stove business, in which he has
remained, and he now occupies a position with the Smith & Anthony Stove Company. In
1867 Col. Rowell was a member of the Legislature from Boston. He came to Somerville in
1869, was a member of the Common Council in 1873, of the Board of Aldermen in i874and
1875, °f tl^^ Water Board, of which he was president, in 1877 and 1888, and has been presi
dent of the Board of Registrars of Voters since 1886. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge,
F. A. A. M., SomerviUe Chapter, R. A. M., Orient Council, R, and S. M., Cojur de Lion
Commandery, K. T., Excelsior Council, Royal Arcanum, and Mount Benedict Lodge, K, H.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT- 619
Col. Rowell has been twice married : his first wife was Miss Harriet Maynard, daughter of
Law-son and Nancy (Angell) Maynard of Framingham; and his second wife was Miss Lottie
A. Larkin, daughter of Henry and Annie Larkin, of Concord, X'. LL They reside on Pearl
street. Russell, Irving L., was born in Somerville, on the estate on which he now resides,
May 24, 1852, son of Levi and Martha (Smith) RusseU. He was educated in the pubhc
schools of this city, and in the Warren Academy of Woburn, and Eaton's Commercial Col
lege of Boston. He is a market gardener by occupation, cultivating about forty acres, his
farm being the largest plant of the kind in Somerville. Mr. Russell served two years, in
1882 and 1883, in the Common Council; three years, 1884, 1885 and 1886, in the Board of
.-Udermen, being president of that body in the last year of his service; was chairman of the
committees on highways, and fuel and street lights. He was a member of the Llouse of
Representatives in 1888 and 1889, and was on the committees on labor, woman suffrage
and water supply. Mr. Russell married Miss .\ddie Johns, daughter of Cyrus and Margaret
(Kelton) Johns of New York City. They reside at 1323 Broadway.
Russ, George Herman, was born in Belfast, Me., March 17, 1863, the son of Captain
James .\. and Laura A. (Weymouth) Russ, and a direct descendant in the tenth generation
of Henry Russ, w-ho came from Hingham, England, and settled at Hingham, Mass., about
1633. He attended the public schools at Belfast, and came to Boston in 1878. He attended
the Grammar and Latin Schools of Boston, and then went into the law office of Edwin C.
Gilman. About a year afterward he began the law course at Boston University, and was ad
mitted to the Suffolk bar in June, 1886. -Shortly afterward he accepted a position as assist
ant attorney for the Lamson Store .Service Co., which he retained for nearly three years. He
then opened an office at 113 Devonshire street, Boston, and devoted himself to general prac
tice, and with gratifying results. Mr. Russ came to Somerville in 1888. He married, in
December, 1882, Miss LUla E. Houghton of Boston; they have three sons, and reside at 28
Montrose street. Mr. Russ served the city as a member of the Common Council in 1892
and 1893. He is a member of the Central Club, Sons of Maine, Paul Revere Lodge, I. O.
O. F., and other social organizations, and has been chief patriarch of Winter Hill Encamp
ment, and is a past master workman of Winter Hill Lodge, .\. O. U. W.
Rymes, Christopher E., was born in Portsmouth, N. PL, September 23, 1827. lie
came to Boston in March, 1844, to learn the machinist's trade, entering the employ of Tuttle
& Dow. In 1850 he was employed as foreman in the machine shops of Hittenger, Cook cV
Co., and was admitted to the firm in 1855. In 1866 the firm name was changed to Cook,
Rymes & Co. This partnership continued until April, 1887, when it was dissolved, and all
the partners retired from the business. In October, 1864, Mr. Rymes bought the estate on
Summer street. Spring Hill, where he has since lived. He was a member of the original
committee authorized by the to-n-n to contract with the city of Charlestown for the supply of
water. He was a member of the first Water Board, and for several years its president. In
1889 he superintended the introduction of the high-water service in SomerviUe. Lie served
in the first Common Council, and the foUowing year in the Board of Aldermen. He has been
a member of the board of trustees of the Public Library for years, and w-as also one of the
trustees of the sinking fund. In 1875 he was elected to the Massachusetts .Senate. Mr.
Rymes is a life member of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association, a member
of John Abbot Lodge, SomervUle Chapter, and Boston Commandery of Knights Templar.
He was the first president of the Central Club, serving for five years. Mr. Rymes married
.\lmira L., daughter of the late Dr. Joseph Cheever.
Sanborn, Alexander A., was born in Tuftonborough, X'. H., February 13, 1833. Lie
was educated in the schools of that town. Coming to Boston in 1849, he entered the ser
vice of the New England Steam and Gas Pipe Company, 61 Charlestown street, .\bout

620 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
1876 he established business for himself in Sudbury street, and in 1881 located at 16 and 18
Post-Office square, where he is still engaged in the heating and ventUating business. On Oc
tober 10, 1856, he was married to Miss Abby H. Beedy of Phillips, Me. They have one son,
Charles H. Sanborn, who is associated with his father in business. Mr. Sanborn is a mem
ber of SomerviUe Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, Orient Council, Somerville, and Coeur de
Lion Commandery of Charlestown.
Sanborn, Caleb Leavitt, son of Jefferson and Martha A. Sanborn, was born in Tuf
tonborough, N. H., January 12, 1843. H^ received his education in the schools of his native
town, and in Meredith, X'. H. At the age of eighteen he came to Boston and learned the
steam-fitter's trade, and subsequently was with Fuller and Ford in Chicago as foreman two
years. After returning to Boston, he accepted a position with Braman, Dow & Co., 3 and 4
Haymarket square, which he still holds. He married Elizabeth A. Favor of Manchester, N.
H., November 21, 1874; they moved to Somerville, February 21, 1875, and at present reside
at 21 Willow avenue. They have one child, a daughter, and lost an infant son. Mr. San
born is a member of National Lodge, F. A. A. M., of Chicago, lU., the Howard Lodge,
I. O. O. F., of Charlestown, Mass., Brookline Lodge, K. of H., and several benefit organiza
tions. He comes of good old Puritan stock, being a direct descendant of John Sanborn, who
was born in the hamlet of Sanborn, Warwickshire, Eng., and who was among the earlier
colonists who landed in this country about 1620, and settled in Hampton, N. H.
Sanborn, Charles B., was born in New Hampshire, where his youth was passed and
education obtained. He came to Boston in 1866, and engaged in the produce business, in
which he still continues, having been located at 29 North Market street for nearly tw-enty
years; he carries on a general commission business, making a specialty of the poultry trade.
He was a member of the City Council in 1888 and 1889, and served on the Board of Alder
men in 1890, 1891 and 1893. '^f- Sanborn came to Somerville early in the seventies, and
lived in Ward i over twenty years, moving to his residence at 26 Adams street about two
years ago. He is a member of the Fruit and Produce Exchange, and the Chamber of Com
merce, both of Boston, and a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Somerville Chapter, R.
A. M., and De Molay Commandery, K. T.
Sanborn, Daniel W., General Superintendent of the Boston & Maine Railroad System,
is a native of Wakefield, Carroll County, N. H. He was educated in the public schools of
his native town, and at Wakefield Academy. Upon leaving school he served an apprentice
ship at ship-building, and worked at the trade for several years. In May, 1859, he entered
the service of the Portland, Saco & Portsmouth Railroad Company, at Portsmouth, N. H.,
where he remained until August, 1863. He was next employed as a brakeman on a passen
ger train, and, in 1864, was promoted to the position of conductor, in which capacity he
acted until 1879. In the latter year he was appointed Master of Transportation of the Eastern
Railroad, with headquarters in Boston, which position he filled until the Eastern was leased
to the Boston & Maine, when he was made Superintendent of the Eastern Division (the old
Eastern Railroad), holding this office until July, 1890. Having acquitted himself with great
credit in this position, he was, in i8go, appointed Superintendent of the Southern Division
(the old Boston & Lowell), which had been leased by the Boston & Maine. Soon after ihe
death of James T. Furber, ( jeneral Manager, the position of general superintendent of the
system was created, and Mr. Sanborn, in February, 1892, was invited by the directors to
accept it. Mr. Sanborn is a member of New Hampshire Lodge, I. O.O. F., and of Straw
berry Bank Encampment of Portsmouth, N.H., Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Somerville Royal
Arch Chapter, and Orient Council of Somerville; also is a member of De Molay Commandery
of Knights Templar, Boston. In 1856 he was married to Miss Lucy Maria Lydston, of Eliot,
Me., who, with a son, Fred E., and daughter, Mrs. J. M. French, constitute his family. Mr.
Sanborn enjoys a wide acquaintance among railroad and business men throughout New
England.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 621
Sanborn, David A., was born in Sandwich, X'. H., February 14, 1795, the son of
Robert and Mary Glines Sanborn. He came to Roxbury when eighteen years of age, walk
ing the entire distance from Sandwich. He worked at farming a few years, then came to
Somerville and carried on the milk business, and later was engaged in the manufacture of
bricks on Prospect street, near the railroad bridge. He married Hannah Adams Stone, the
daughter of John and Mary (Tufts) Stone, September 30, i82i,by whom he had five children.
He built a house on Washington street, near Union square, about seventy years ago, where
he lived and died. He held several town offices, and was in the War of 1812. He died
February 19, 1875.
Sanborn, David A., was born April 21, 1828, the son of DavidA. and Hannah Adams
(Stone) Sanborn, at the family residence on Washington street, SomervUle (then Charles
town). His father came from Sandwich, X. H., at an early age, and, establishing himself in
Somerville, was associated with the early growth of the town. David A., Jr., was educated
in the public schools of Somerville, and has always lived very near the spot where he was
born. At the age of sixteen he was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade, which voca
tion he followed for many years, assisting in the building of many of the residences and
public buildings of the city. In early life he was connected with the old volunteer fire
department, in the times of hand engines, and, later, was on the Board of Engineers, from
1865 to 1872 being chief engineer. Mr. Sanborn is now president of the Veteran Fire
men's Association, and treasurer of the Firemen's Relief Fund. He served two years each
in charge of the sewer department, as overseer of the poor, and as assessor. He was also
elected to the Common Councfl in 1876. Mr. Sanborn is a charter member of Oasis Lodge
I. O. O. F., and Somerville Encampment, and has for many years been on the board of trustees
of both organizations. He is also a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M. His business now
is in real estate, and in the care of property.
Sanborn, Dr. Edwin A., the son of Aaron and Amanda M. (Currier) Sanborn, and
grandson of Abraham Sanborn, was born August 28, 1849, at Grafton, N. H. His father
died at the early age of twenty-six years, leaving him, then about two years of age, and his
widowed mother, with rather limited resources. He was therefore early in life obliged to
learn the lesson of self reliance. In accordance with his strong inclinations, he, when about
fourteen years of age, determined to become a physician and surgeon, and spared no
efforts to accomplish that result, and in this he succeeded by his own efforts w-ithout any
financial assistance or favors from any one. After passing through the common schools,
he attended a private school for several terms, after which he continued his studies under
tutors, latterly with the special object of preparing himself thoroughly for the study of medi
cine. In 1872 he began the study of medicine at ihe McLean Asylum in Somerville,
under the direction of Dr. F. A. Stillings. He subsequently pursued his studies at the
iledical Department of Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Me., and also at the Dartmouth Medi
cal College, Hanover, N. H., and was graduated from Dartmouth, X'ovember 3, 1875, being
awarded the first prize of twenty-five dollars for passing the best examination of the graduat
ing class in every department of study. In 1876 he offered a like prize to be awarded to
the student who should pass a similar examination at that institution. Dr. Sanborn practiced
medicine during the winter of 1875-1876 with his uncle Dr. D. Jl. Currier of X'ewport,X'. H.,
and located in Somerville in the spring of 1876, w-here he has remained in the successful
practice of his profession ever since. He is a member of the Middlesex South District
Medical Society, the Massachusetts .Medical .Society, the American Medical Association, and
the Alumni Association of Dartmouth Medical College. He is a medical examiner for the
Berkshire Life Insurance Company and various other insurance organizations. He was
married, June i, 1876, to iliss Harriet L. Hosmer of Somerville, but a native of Weld, Me.
He is not a club man, but is devoted to his profession and his home, delighting to spend his

Frank S. Sanborn.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 623
spare time or evenings in reading, or in social intercourse with his friends. His residence is
at 24 Franklin street.
Sanborn, Frank S., was born at Bristol, X'. H., August 28, 1853, son of Sherburn S.
and Nancy (Fellows) .Sanborn. He was educated in the public schools of Bristol, and on
leaving school he found employment in the Bristol Hosiery Mill, where he remained a short
time and then entered the service of the X'orthern Railroad Company. In 1875 he came to
Boston, where he was employed five years by Joseph Goodnow, a lumber dealer, and in 1880
he returned to the railroad service, working for the X'ew York & X'ew England Railroad
Company at Norwich, Conn. In 1881 he found a position in the car department of the
Fitchburg Railroad Company, was appointed foreman of freight work in 1882, and foreman
of freight and passenger work in 1883. In 1891 he was promoted to the position of gen
eral foreman and master wrecker of the Fitchburg Division of the road, -which position he
still holds. He married Miss Ella J. Swallow of Peterboro, X'. H., in 1876, and their resi
dence is at 22 Bonner avenue. Mr. Sanborn is a member of Bunker Hill Lodge, 1. 0. O. F.,
of Charlestown, took Masonic degrees in Henry Price Lodge, Charlestown, w-as made a Red
Man in Hiawatha Tribe, Medford, and is a member of De Soto Lodge, K. of P., Boston, the
Railroad Relief Society and the X'ew England Railroad Club.
Sanborn, James S., was born in Wales, Me., March 29, 1835, ^^ son of Henry and
Ann (Daly) Sanborn. His youth w-as spent in Wales, Monmouth and X'ashua, N. H., and
he received the education of the district schools of that time. In 1856 he married Harriet
N. SmaU, daughter of Captain John and Sarah (Moody) Small of Auburn, Me. They have
four children; the two sons are connected with their father in business. He began business
by traveling and selling garden-seeds for A. H. Dunlap, Nashua, N. H., and for several
years he w-as a commercial traveler. His first venture for himself was in Lewiston, Me.,
where he went into the coffee and spice business. In 1868 he became connected with
DwineU, Hayward & Co., of Boston, and in 1872 moved with his family to Somerville,
where he has since resided, except for five years, 1880-1885, when he lived in Boston. The
present firm of Chase & Sanborn was formed in 1878, and the greatest success has at
tended them. Besides the coffee business, to which Mr. Sanborn has given his best effort,
he has within a few years given much attention to the French Coach Horse, at his summer
home, Poland, Me., where he has a large estabUshment. Mr. Sanborn has traveled exten
sively in the United States, Canada, West Indies, Central America, Mexico and the countries
of the Mediterranean. He is pre-eminently a self-made man, and his energy and persever
ance have been largely the cause of the success that attends all his undertakings.
Sanborn, William A., was born on Prospect street, the son of Joseph P. and Mercy
K. Sanborn, May 9, 1852. He attended the Prescott, and afterwards the High School, from
which he graduated in 1 871, and then went to work at brickmaking for his father, for
whom he worked two years, at the end of w-hich time he went into business for himself.
Two years later he took John W. Hatch into the concern, and for fifteen years the firm
was composed of these gentlemen. Mr. Sanborn now carries on alone the manufacture of
brick, his yards, which are extensive, being located on Mystic avenue and in Exeter, X. H.
He has recently bought a large tract of land at Epping, N. H., which will also be opened
for brickmaking. Mr. Sanborn married Gertrude W. Braley of Charlestown, and they have
two girls and a boy. He is a member of Soley Lodge of Masons, Paul Revere Lodge, and
SomerviUe Encampment of Odd FeUows, Monument Council, Royal Arcanum, the Massachu
setts Bmlders' Association and other trade organizations. He is also one of the founders of
the Winter HUl Universalist Church.
Sargent, Aaron, was born in Charlestown, October 29, 1822, the son of Aaron and
Sarah (Nichols) Sargent of that city. His education was obtained in the pubhc schools of
Charlestown. He came to Somerville in 1846, residing in East Somervflle until 1869, when

624 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
he removed to Winter HiU. He served on the school committee of the town from 1858 to
1862, on the auditing committee from i860 to 1862 and from 1868 to 1871, on the finance
committee from 1868 to 1871, and on the water board from 1858 to 1871. On the incorpo
ration of the city government, Mr. Sargent was elected city treasurer, and continued in the
office by successive elections tiU 1881, vi'hen he resigned. He served as a commissioner of
the sinking fund from 1876 to 1888. Mr. Sargent married Miss S. Maria Adams, daughter
of Joseph and Phebe P. (Morse) Adams of Somerville. She is a lineal descendant of John
Adams, the early miller of Cambridge. They reside on Broadway.
Sawyer, Charles W., was born in Charlestown, Mass., February 28, 1833. His
early education was obtained in the Training Field School and the Grammar .School in
Charlestown; he then attended a private school, and finally took a course in a commercial
college. In 1853 he was appointed a clerk in the Charlestown Post-Office, where he remained
sixteen years, most of the time being assistant postmaster. In 1869 he resigned the position,
and engaged in the auction and real estate business in City square, Charlestown, with an
office also in Boston, doing a large business in Charlestown, Somerville and vicinity. In
this business he has since continued. Mr. Sawyer took up his residence in Somerville in
1873. In 1875 ^^ *^s a member of the Common Councfl, and served in the Board of
Aldermen in 1876. He was subsequently chairman of the Board of Health for two years.
He is a charter member of the following named Masonic bodies : Signet R. A. Chapter and
Cceur de Lion Commandery of Charlestown; Soley Lodge of Somerville and Somerville
Council. He was for two years Em. commander- of Coeur de Lion Commandery, in which
he is now an honorary member. He is a member of Somerville R. A. Chapter. He was
president of the Training Field School Association in Charlestown for two years, and was
for many years the president of the 999th ArtUlery Association of Charlestown, — a social
club of 350 members, many of whom are residents of SomerviUe — and is a member of the
Boston Real Estate Exchange. Mr. Sawyer has always taken great interest in the muni
cipal affairs of Somerville, and is now one of the trustees of the Public Library. He married,
in 1856, Miss Juha A. Heal, who died in September, 1894. He resides on Main street.
Winter HiU.
Shattuck, Frederick W., was born upon a hillside farm in the little town of Reading,
Vt. His early life was a type of that of thousands of X'ew England boys, who by their
industry and perseverance have worked their way through school and college. During
early boyhood he had the privilege of attending school one short term each winter and each
summer. Later the spelling-book gave place to the scythe and hoe in summer. When
seventeen he attended a fall term of school at Green Mountain Academy, South Woodstock,
Vt., and he taught his first school during the following winter. About this time he con
ceived the idea of fitting for college, and by teaching winters, working summers, and
attending school during each fall and spring, he prepared for and entered Dartmouth
CoUege, graduating in the class of 1879. Since that time he has been engaged in teaching at
Windsor, Vt., Fitchburg, Lawrence, Manchester, N. H., and Winchester, and for the past
five years he has been the popular and efficient principal of the Luther V. Bell School.
Simonds, Edwin N., son of Nathan and Elizabeth (Patch) Simonds, was born in
Burlington, Mass., May i, 1850. His education was received in the Phillips School, Boston,
and the Kimball Union Academy, Meriden, N. H. He has carried on a successful business
as a milk contractor since 1871, and has been a resident of SomerviUe since 1874. ^Ir.
Simonds is a member of Soley Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Somerville Chapter, R. A. M., of
Orient Council, and of Coeur de Lion Commandery, K. T., Charlestown. He is identified
with Paul Revere Lodge No. 184, 1. O. O. F.,and is vice-president of the Winter Hill Club.
On November 26, 1873, he married Miss Annie M. Simonds of Lexington, Mass., who died
X'ovember 23, 1874. On September 27, 1877, he married Miss Edith J. Hanchett of X'atick,

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 62^
Mass. Mr. .Simonds is a model business man and a public-spirited citizen. X'o city can
have too many men of his characteristics.
Smith, Dr. Frederick G., was born in Wilton, X. H., December 12, 1867. He was
educated in the public schools of his native town, and at Gushing Academy, Ashburnham,
Mass. He practiced pharmacy in Boston three years, two of which were spent in the Mas
sachusetts CoUege of Pharmacy. He entered the department of medicine and surgery in
the University of Michigan in October, 1890, graduating therefrom in June, 1893. During
the six months immediately following he was house surgeon at the Methodist Episcopal Hos
pital at Omaha, Xeb., and commenced the practice of his profession in Somerville in January,
1894. October 21, 1896, he was married to Miss Mabel Johnson, eldest daughter of the late
Judge Edward F. Johnson of Marlborough, Mass. He resides at 49 Cross street.
Souther, Ezra D., son of Emery and Llannah (Lincoln) Souther, was born in Boston,
October 11, 1847. He attended the Mayhew .School in that city, and on the completion of
his education entered a commission house, where he remained six years; he then took a po
sition with the National Revere Bank of Boston, and has remained in it to the present time,
a period of twenty-five years. Mr. Souther's first ancestor in this country came over in about
1632, and was the first secretary of Plymouth Colony. The Lincolns of Hingham were his
ancestors on his mother's side, among whom was General Ebenezer Lincoln; it is also claimed
that Abraham Lincoln was one of the Hingham family. Mr. Souther has lived in Somer
viUe for the last twenty-three years, and served the city in the Common Council in 1887
and 1888, and in the Board of Aldermen in 1889 and 1890. He was elected Overseer of
the Poor to fill an unexpired term, in January, 1895; and in April, 1896, was re-elected for a
full term of four years. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., Winter Hill Lodge,
K. H., Unity Council, Royal Arcanum, Boston Bank Officers' Association, and the Broadway
Congregational Society. He married Lydia True Preble of Boston, November 28, 1872, and
they have two children, a, son and a daughter. They reside at 14 Pembroke street.
Southworth, Amasa E., was born in Stoughton, X'orfolk County, May 19, 1844. He
w-as the son of Amasa and Abigail (Sherman) Southworth, the latter now living at the age
of ninety and in full possession of all her faculties, while her mother lived to the advanced
age of one hundred and two years. He received his education in the ungraded common
schools of Stoughton, and at the age of sixteen moved to Boston, and entered the employ
ment of Dana, Farrar & Hyde, wholesale grocers. He remained with this house through its
various changes, and is at present united with the junior partner of the house for whom he
first worked, under the style of Hyde & Southworth, in the same store and same business.
In 1866 he married Abbie M., daughter of Charles and Lydia Dorman, of Rockport, Mass.,
and moved to SomerviUe in September, 1868. They have had six children, three at present
living. He has always taken an active interest in social and political matters, being a char
ter member and past master of Soley Lodge of Masons. .Always a Republican, in 1894 he
w-as elected to serve as representative to the General Court for 1895, and was placed on the
committees on banks and banking, and metropolitan affairs. In 1895 he was re-elected, and
was on the committees on libraries and metropolitan affairs for 1896. .As a member of the
latter committee, he took great interest in all matters affecting the interests of Somerville,
particularly the water bfll and the biUs for parks and boulevards. Believing that Somer
ville was unjustly assessed for these latter, he strongly advocated the aboUshment of the pres
ent assessment and the postponement of any assessment until the year 1900, which bill was
finally passed. He looks with pride upon the rapid growth in wealth and population of the
city, and always has a good word for the home of his adoption.
Southworth, Gordon A., was born at Dorset, \'t., December 11, 1838, the son of Gu^-
tavus W. and Caroline (.\lden) Southworth. Llis youth was passed in Chicago and Low-ell.
in the public schools of w-hich he was educated. Choosing the profession of teaching, he

John P. Squire.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 627
began his work at Tewksbury. His subsequent experience has been three years at the Straf
ford (.X'. H.) High School; two years at the New Market (X. IT.) High School; one year
at X'ahant; nine years at the Centre School, Maiden, whence he came in 1873 to the prin
cipalship of the Prescott School, Somervflle. After a service of twenty years in this position,
he was unanimously elected, in 1893, Superintendent of Public Schools, an office which he
now holds. Mr. Southworth has been prominent in educational associations in the county
and stale. He is one of the founders and president of the Teachers' Annuity Guild of
Eastern Massachusetts. He is the co-author of a series of school text-books for language in
struction, which are widely used. He is also the author of a series of arithmetics, "The Es
sentials of Arithmetic." He has also been identified with .Sunday-school work all his hfe,
having been for fourteen years the superintendent of the Sunday-school of the Franklin-
street Church in this city. Mr. Southworth married, in 1876, Miss Ehzabeth F. Pettes,
daughter of Horace and Abigail S. (Parks) Pettes of Boston.
Sparrow, Edmund S., was born in Orleans, Mass., October 16, 1846. He attended
the vfllage school until he was fifteen years of age, when he went to sea, as the expression
is, until he was twenty-one, at w-hich period of his life he came to Boston and learned the
building trade. After working at it three years he embarked in business for himself, as
architect and builder, which calling he conducted successfully for twenty years when he re
tired from the business. For the past ten years he has devoted most of his time to the man
agement of real estate. During the years 1894 and 1895 ^^ "'^s a member of the Board of
Aldermen, the last year being president of the board and chairman of several important
committees. He belongs to various organizations, among which may be named the John
Abbot Lodge, A. F. and A. M., Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, De Molay Commandery,
K. T., Elm Council, R. A., and Caleb Rand Lodge, I. O. O. F. He is a director of the
Sprague and Hathaway Co., and the West Somerville Co-operative Bank; is also one of the
trustees of the Somerville Hospital and a member of the executive committee. He resides
al 18 Meacham street.
Squire, John P., son of Peter and Esther (Craig) Squire, was born in Weathersfield,
Vt., May 8, 1819. He came to Boston in 1836, and worked for Nathan Robbins untfl he
began business for himself in 1842, when he established the house of John P. Squire & Co.
This business grew, during his lifetime, from one hog per day to over 4,000 hogs per day,
and represented from ^15,000,000 to gi8,ooo,ooo per annum. Mr. Squire married Kate
Green Orvis in 1843, '^y whom he had eleven chUdren, nine of whom were living at the time
of his death, January 7, 1893.
Starbird, George M., is a native of Bowdoinham, Me., to which State his ancestors
came nearly two hundred years ago. At the age of sixteen he came to Charlestown, where
he became apprenticed at the carpenter trade. In i860 he established himself in business
as carpenter and builder, and since that time has done a large business with success. In
1872 and 1873 ^^ was a member of the Board of Aldermen of the city of Charlestown. In
1873 he was nominated as a candidate for representative from Charlestown to the General
Court, but declined the nomination. In 1879 he was again nominated to the General
Court, and was elected, and served on the committee on harbors and public lands. In
1881 he moved to Somerville, where he was a member of the Common Council in 1887 and
1888. He is a trustee and a member of the investment committee of the Charlestown Five
Cents Savings Bank, n. director in the Mutual Protection Fire Insurance Company, a director
in the Somerville Electric Light Company, and has been a trustee of the Somerville Hospital
since its organization. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. .V. M., and of the Royal
Arcanum. He resides at 102 Pearl street.
Stodder, Frederick Mortimer, was born in Cambridgeport, Vt., February 22, 1833. He
attended the district schools in that tow-n, and subsequently the academy at Saxton's River

George M. Starbird.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 629
and at Townshend, Vt. He came to Boston in 1850, and entered the employ of A. Whitney
& Co., 370 Commercial street, the members of the firm being Alfred Whitney and A. B.
Gookin. Four years later he became a partner in the estabUshment, the new firm name
being that of Gookin & Stodder, and they have continued in the same location until the
present time. Mr. Stodder came to Somerville in April, 1873, purchasing his present home
at II Grand Vievv avenue. He has been a member of the City Government, having served
the city as a member of the Council in the years 1882 and 1883. He is a member of the
First M. E. Church, and is secretary of the board of trustees; he was also an active member
of the old Planover-street Church in Boston, and served it as treasurer for many years. He
has two sons, both of whom reside in Boston, where they are engaged in business.
Story, Isaac, was born at ilarblehead, Mass., November 4, 1818, the son of Isaac and
Sally Martin (Bowen) Story. He was educated at Lynn Academy and Pierce Academy,
Middleborough, and continued his studies subsequently under private direction. In 1839,
when twenty years of age, he became principal of the Franklin Academy, in Kutztown, Pa.,
and later the principal of the Bertie Union Academy, N. C. During this absence he studied
law under the direction of Hon. Samuel PI. Perkins, a leading member of the Philadelphia
bar. Returning to Lynn, he studied law wilh Hon. Thomas B. X'ewhall for a time, and —
again going .South — taught in Maryland, for a year or more. Coming to Boston, where his
parents then resided, in January, 1843, he entered the law office of Hon. Charles Theodore
Russell, and subsequently that of ilessrs. Fuller & Andrew, composed of Henry H. Fuller
and John A. Andrew, — afterwards governor, — from which office he w-as admitted to the
Suffolk bar in September, 1844, and then commenced practice on his own account. He
was admitted to practice in the United States Circuit and District Courts in May, 1845, ^""1
from that time, with the exception of one year's absence, practiced law in Boston until his
appointment. May 31, 1873, t>y Governor Washburn, as the standing justice of the Police
Court of SomerviUe. He took his seat on the bench at the organization of that court in the
following June, and still holds the office. For several years he practiced in the same office
with Governor Andrew, who was one of his groomsmen at his first marriage. He has been
twice married : first, to Elizabeth Bowen Woodberry, daughter of Captain Jacob and Elizabeth
(Bowen) Woodberry, of Beverly; second, to Mary Ann Chase, daughter of Hezekiah and
Sally (Hoyt) Chase, of Lynn. He came to Somerville in May 1853, where, with the excep
tion of four years — from 1857 to 1861 — he has ever since resided. In 1856 he was the
representative of Somerville in the General Court, and during several years was a member
of the School Committee of Somerville. His paternal grandfather. Dr. Elisha Story, a Boston
boy, was one of those so-called " Indians " in the tea espisode in Boston Harbor on the eve of
the War of the Revolution, and led the party who captured two brass field-pieces from the
British sentry at what is now the Park-street entrance to Boston Common. His maternal
grandfather, Nathan Bowen, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and was orderly ser
geant in a Marblehead company stationed in that part of Charlestown now known as Winter
HiU, in Somerville, to guard the Hessian troops taken at General Burgoyne's surrender. He
afterward became lieutenant, and at the close of the war returned to Marblehead, and upon
the death of his father took his place as a magistrate, which he held until his death in 1837.
His father, Isaac Story, Jr., commanded the Marblehead Light Infantry, attached to a batta
lion of artillery, in the War of 1812 with Great Britain.
Sturtevant, George F., son of Josiah and Hannah Sturtevant, was born in Center
Harbor, N. H., in 1839. He was educated in the schools of his native town, and at the
age of twenty came to Somerville, and entered the employ of Richard H. Sturtevant; sub
sequently the firm of Sturtevant Brothers, provision dealers, was established, and he was ad
mitted a member of the firm. In 1881 he withdrew from the partnership, and went to Brad
ford, 111., where he engaged in the vocation of shipping horses to the East, remaining there

Residence of Frederick F. Stockwell, 9 Kidder Avenue.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 63 I
until 1893, when he returned to Somerville and established a business in hay, grain, etc., and
continued in it until his death, which occurred in January, 1894. Mr. Sturtevant was mar
ried to Miss Harriet E. Dodge, by whom he had three children, two sons and a daughter.
He served the city as a member of the Water Board five years. He belonged to a number
of the social organizations of Somerville, among which were John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M.,
Knights of Honor, and Good Fellows.
Sturtevant, Lindley J., was born in Holderness, N. H. At the age of twelve he
came to Somerville, where he was educated in the public schools. He embarked in the
provision business in early life, and for the past twenty years has been in that line of trade in
the Union Market, Boston. He is very genial in his disposition, and exceedingly popular
among his acquaintances and friends. He is a member of a number of organizations, among
which are the F. A. A. M., the I.O.O.F., Royal Arcanum, Pilgrim Fathers, and Good Fel
lows. Lie resides on Columbus avenue.
Sturtevant, Richard H., son of Eben L. Sturtevant, was born in Centre Harbori
N. H., August I, 1836. He was educated in the public schools of his native town, and came
to Boston in 1852. He commenced work for G. A. & A. L. Sanborn, grocers, in Somerville,
continuing with them seven years; he then opened Webster Market, near the corner of
Washington and Prospect streets. From 1862 to 1866 he was with Harrison, Bird & Co.,
becoming a member of the firm in the latter year. For five years from 1887 the firm was
Sturtevant & Haley. On the death of Mr. Haley, in 1892, the firm was incorporated as the
Sturtevant & Haley Beef and Supply Company, of which Mr. Sturtevant is treasurer and
manager. The slaughtering and rendering are done at Nos. 50 and 52 Somerville avenue.
On June 13, 1867, he married Miss Martha M. Sanborn, daughter of Robert and Martha
Sanborn. He is a member of John Abbot Lodge of Somerville, the Council of R. and S.
Masters, and Coeur de Lion Commandery of Charlestown. He is also identified wilh the
Royal Arcanum, Boston Chamber, of Commerce, Fruit & Produce Exchange, the National
Lancers, and is a director of the Fourth National Bank of Boston. He has lived in Somer
ville for a period of forty-four years, and his present residence is the handsome house at 31
Walnut street.
Tarbox, French 0. J., was born at Charlestown, September 2, 1861. He attended the
primary and grammar schools of his native city, graduating from the latter in the class of
1877. A six months' course at the Boston Commercial College completed his school life,
and, having a desire to travel, he made a two years' cruise on the bark Stillman B. Allen,
visiting the antipodes at the age of sixteen. His return home was made from San Francisco
in the famous Cape Horn clipper ship " Young America," and he entered New York Harbor
in just twenty-three months after leaving it, having circumnavigated the globe at the age of
eighteen, and traveled upwards of 52,000 miles. He remained on land a short time, and again
went on a long voyage to the East Indies, etc., from which he returned home and then perma
nently abandoned a sea-faring life. Plis father having purchased a farm at Poland, Me.,
Mr. Tarbox joined him in tilling the soil ; but finding the life uncongenial to him at the end
of two years, he returned to Charlestown. After devoting four years to the oil business, he
entered the service of the Boston & Maine RaUroad, working in various capacities, after
which, having learned the trade of steam-fitting and piping with the Walworth Manufacturing
Company, he took a position on the Fitchburg Railroad as steam-fitter, and remained in it for
five years, when he again entered the employ of the Boston & Maine Railroad as air-brake
fitter, and he continues in that position at the present time. Mr. Tarbox is a member of the
Bunker HiU Lodge No. 14, I. O. O. F., and is master of Mt. Horeb Lodge X'o. 19, Loyal
Orange Institution ; he is also a member of the Fitchburg R. R. Relief Association, and a
member of the Common Council from Ward 2. Mr. Tarbox was married, September 12,
1890, to Sarah E. Magrath, a daughter of William Magratb, an old and well-known resident
of Charlestown. They have one child and reside at 60 Oak street.

632 SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
Taylor, Charles H., the son of John I. and Abigail R. (Hapgood) Taylor, was born in
Charlestown, July 14, 1846. He was educated in the public schools of that city, and on
leaving school he entered the composing-room of the "Boston Traveler" and learned the
printer's trade, being then a lad of sixteen years of age. In the spring of 1862 he laid dow-n
his composing-stick, and enlisted for service in the Civil War. Thus, a mere boy, he entered
the Union Army, in which he served like a veteran until a bullet received in one of the bat
tles before Port Hudson, in June, 1863, finished his army career, and almost ended his life.
Returning to Boston, after his recovery from his wound, he became a reporter on the
"Traveler," and was appointed correspondent for the "X'ew York Tribune.'' In 1869
Governor WiUiam Claflin appointed him as his private secretary, wilh the rank of colonel,
and he remained in that position three years. In 1872 and 1873 he was chosen representa
tive from .Somerville to the General Court, and in the latter year was elected clerk of the
Massachusetts Llouse of Representatives. In April, 1873, he became manager of the "Boston
Globe," and he has remained in that position until the present time, having by sturdy in
dustry and rare good judgment built up the paper to its present high position, and almost
unrivaled prosperity. "Thus, while he was stiU under forty, the man who at twenty-three
had fondly dreamed of becoming a great editor found his full ambition realized. He was
recognized not only as a great editor, but as among the greatest of newspaper managers.
The story of his commercial success is one of those fascinating romances of the sudden cre
ation of wealth, of which the United States in recent years has furnished so many."
In 1 89 1, Col. Taylor was appointed on Governor Russell's staff with the rank of gen
eral. During his long residence in SomerviUe, General Taylor took a prominent part in re-
Ugious, educational and social matters, and held important positions in a number of the lead
ing organizations. In 1866 he married Georgianna O., daughter of George W. and L. F.
Davis. His eldest son Charles H., Jr., together with two younger sons, are associated with
him in the management of the " Globe." General Taylor is a past master of John Abbot
Lodge, F. A. A. M., president of the Taylor and Algonquin Clubs of Boston, and is a mem
ber of a number of other leading organizations.
Teele, Frank A., was born in Acton, Mass., in 1866, and is a grandson of the late J. W.
Teele, for whom Teele square was named. He was educated in the grammar and high schools
of Acton, the Lawrence Academy of Groton, and in Comer's Commercial College in Boston.
He was first employed by Winn, Ricker &Co., and C. E. Morrison & Co., Faneuil Hall Mar
ket, as bookkeeper; after two years' service with them he entered the employ of John P.
.Squire & Co., on North Market street, as assistant cashier, and remained with that firm about
one year, leaving it to assume the position of cashier of the Moses A. Dow estate (Waverly
House), and bookkeeper and advertising manager of the " Waverly Magazine " in Charles
town. He remained in that position six years, and on August i , 1 895, bought the coal and wood
business of the late Col. S. M. Fuller in Davis square, and at once established himself in that
trade, adding to it a real estate and insurance business; he was also appointed a notary pub
lic by Gov. Greenhalge. Although inexperienced in his new business, he has, by the employ
ment of a great amount of energy, not only placed it on a good basis, but has very greatly
increased it during the past year. He was married, in 1S88, to Miss Mabel Richardson
of South Acton, and has three daughters. He is a member of Elm Councfl, R. A., Caleb
Rand Lodge, I. O. O. F., Clarendon Lodge, Pilgrim Fathers, and Provident Lodge, A. O. U.
W., having been recorder of the latter organization since its establishment. He is also as
sistant superintendent of the West Somerville Baptist Sunday-school. He resides on the
old Teele homestead on the corner of Broadway and Curtis street.
Teele, Samuel, was born at the Waller Russell place on Broadway, November 18,
1818, the son of Jonathan and Lydia (HiU) Teele. He attended the Russell District School
of Charlestown, and the Warren Academy in Woburn. He has been a farmer and gardener

^ ^^!

Samuel Teele.

Herbert Thorpe.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 635
all his life, on the homestead which he inherited from his father. In 1836 the w-ell-known
Teele house was buUt by his father at the head of Broadway, on Clarendon Hill. In 1864
a portion of the farm was sold to Tufts College, and in 1868 Mr. Teele built his present resi
dence on Curtis street, opposite the reservoir. Mr. Teele married Miss Phebe S. Libbey,
daughter of James and Abigail (Goodwin) Libbey, of Ossipee, X'. H.
Thorpe, Herbert, w-as born in Somervflle, July 28, 1852, the son of Jerome and Eliza
(IToward) Thorpe. He attended the Brastow, Forster and High .Schools, entering the lat
ter as a member of Mr. Baxter's first class. On leaving school he entered the employ of
Shedd & Sawyer, civil engineers of Boston, in which he remained two years; he then took
a position with Charles D. Elliot, city engineer of .SomerviUe, continuing in it one year. On
leaving that office he established an express route, which he maintained until June 1, 1893,
since which time he has been connected with the Raflroad Electric Safety Appliance Com
pany as manager. It is a fact worthy of mention that he assisted in raising the first flag that
was raised on any schoolhouse in this city at the opening of the Civil ^^'ar. Lie was married,
in December, 1878, to Miss Mary A. Burnett of SomervUle, and they have three children.
Mr. Thorpe belongs to John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., Oasis Lodge, I. O. O. F., of which
he is a past Noble Grand, the Somerville Encampment, I. O. O. F., and the Ivaloo Rebekah
Lodge. Tufts, Nathan, w-as born at the corner of Washington and Medford streets, January
8, 1818, in the little house still standing, and Hved there with his father until he moved to
East Somerville. The elder Tufts was a brickmaker, but his son learned the grain business
of his father-in-law% Abraham Fitz, with w^hom he stayed until he started in business for him
self, when twenty-three years old, at Charlestown Neck. He worked hard, saved his money,
took advantage of opportunities to make more, made investments, and was able to extend
his business until he bought out a firm on Warren Bridge, and conducted the two places, one
as a mill and the other as a storehouse and office, until his death. He became a rich man
by his industry, honorable dealing, courtesy and wisdom. His w-orldly possessions were
numerously scattered in real estate and a handsome personal property, all secured by no act
reflecting on his good name. He was never known to have oppressed the poor, but, on the
other hand, had a generous purse for their aid. His fellow-citizens elected him in 1852 and
1853 a member of the Board of Selectmen, his father having been one in the first years of
the town. He was an Alderman the second year of the city's life, but declined further ser
vice in that branch, refusing the chief magistracy when prominent citizens importuned him
to allow the use of his name. He w-as a Commissioner of the Sinking Fund from the passage
of the act, and at the time of his death was chairman. He was a valued member of the
Unitarian Church, a trustee of Warren Institution for Savings, and a director in the Bunker
Hifl Bank of Charlestown. He was also a member of the Central Club, and a fine member
of the Somerville Light Infantry. For twenty years he lived on the corner of Summer and
Central streets, this city, with his daughter and son Albert. Mr. Tufts was a man of sterUng
character. He was of a quiet, unobtrusive nature, yet a genial, earnest and loyal friend
whenever and wherever he placed his friendship. He was very sensitive on a question where
principle came in, and none can point to an act of his whereby conscientiousness of duty and
strictly honest dealing did not play the whole part. ilr. Tufts died October 20, 1887.
Vinal, Robert Aldersey, was born in Boston, March 16, 1821. His father moved to
SomervUle, then a part of Charlestown, in 1824, and occupied for many years a house in
herited by his wife on the present site of Hotel Warren. Here the elder Robert Vinal re
sided untfl his death, and, like his son, enjoyed the highest esteem of his feUow-citizens. After
attending school at a private academy at Lexington and at Charlestown Neck, Robert A.
took charge of a grain mill in X'orth Chelsea, owned by his father. Here the business abiUty
was started that always marked his life. He married an estimable lady in Xorth Chelsea,

636 SOMERVILLE, P.4ST .4ND PRESENT.
and there some of the older children were born. Mr. Vinal's first business connection on
his own account was with Mr. Edwin Munroe, formerly of this city, whose descendants now
reside here. They kept on Commercial Wharf until 1848. Mr. Vinal and his brother, Quincy
.V. Vinal, entered into business together, taking the old store of the father on Lewis Wharf
They kept together fifteen years, when Robert A. retired. In 1849 he bought the lot at the
corner of Walnut and Aldersey streets, and built the house upon it which he occupied for
thirty-six consecutive years. Mr. Vinal led a vigorous and marked life. Few men equal
him in the trusts he fulfilled. He was identified with every good movement in town and city,
either in social, church, masonic, patriotic, fire, civic or otherwise. He was a great factor
in the problem of advancement of .Somerville, old and new, and few enterprises, private or
public, succeeded without his aid. He was chief engineer of the Fire Department, a member
of the department, treasurer of the Charitable Association connected with it, an original
member of the old Winnisimmet Lodge of Odd Fellows at Chelsea, to which he belonged
many years, a member of Oasis Lodge, John Abbot Lodge and Somerville Chapter of Masons,
deacon of the First Congregational Church, its treasurer, and at one time its efficient super
intendent, an orginal member of the old Boston Commercial Exchange, representative from
this town two years during the war, an incorporator of the Somerville Savings Bank and of
the committee of investment, a member of the original Water Board, Selectman for many
years, and holding the position when the town was converted into a city in 1872, Tow-n Treas
urer at one time, besides many smaller offices of trust. ilr. Vinal left a widow; three
daughters, Louise, Mrs. A. T. Kidder, Alice ; and two sons, Arthur and Charles. The father
died in 1867, and his widow survived him but a few years. They had, besides the eldest
son, Robert A. who died April 12, 1887, Alfred E., Quincy A., John W., Mrs. Lydia M.
Runey, Miss Ehzabeth, now residing in New Jersey, Mrs. Gen. W. L. Burt, and Mrs. E. A.
Wilder. A son and two daughters died some time since.
Vincent, George I., was born in Somerville, July 6, 1851. In 1854 his parents re
moved to Bangor, Me., where he received a common school education, supplemented by a
course in a business college. He returned to SomerviUe with his parents in 1867, his father
purchasing the estate now numbered 32 on Cherry street, where the family has since re
sided. He obtained employment, as office boy, with an importing dress-goods house in
Boston, in the summer of 1867, and about a year later was promoted to the position of entry-
clerk, remaining until 1874. In March, 1874, he was appointed by Mayor Furber as clerk
at the call of the mayor, and was assigned to duty as clerk for the Board of Assessors, be
ginning his service on the first day of April. To this duty were soon added those of clerk
of the committee on claims and clerk of the committee on sew-ers, and some time later he
was chosen clerk of the committee on public property and of the committee on ordinances,
and in 1878, when the first Board of Health, apart from the City Councfl, was established,
he was made the clerk of that board. In 1882 an ordinance was adopted creating the office
of clerk of assessors and committees, and Mr. Vincent was made the first incumbent of the
office, with an assistant; the duties comprising those of clerk of the Board of Assessors and
of afl committees, and also of the Board of Health, the Superintendent of Streets, and the
Chief Engineer of the Fire Department. February 28, 1888, he was unanimously elected to
succeed the veteran city clerk, Charles E. Gflman, who had died on the 22d inst., and he has
received unanimous re-elections in each succeeding year. He has held various offices of
trust and responsibility, including those of treasurer of the Somervifle Musical Association,
treasurer of St. James Church, North Cambridge, and superintendent of the Sunday-school
and a member of the corporation and vestry of Emmanuel Church, Somerville. He was
the first secretary of the Somerville Co-operative Bank, and is at the present time treasurer
of the City Clerks' Association of Massachusetts. He was a member of the Sons of Temper
ance and the Good Templars for many years, and has continued the practice of total abstin-

Herbert L. Clark.

RuFUS R. Wade.

SOMERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT. 639
ence on the grounds both of principle and expediency, lie is a past grand of Oasis Lodge
of Odd Fellows, and a member of Ivaloo Lodge, Daughters of Rebekah, Somervflle Council
of the Royal Arcanum, and Washington Council of the Home Circle, and a contributing
member of Willard C. Kinsley Post No. 139,0. .-V. R. Was married, X'ovember 26, 1872,10
Miss Sophia Elizabeth Edwards, of AUston, and has four daughters.
Wade, Rufus R., one of the most retiring and yet one of the best known men of
.Somerville is the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. Boston born, he had much the
same boyhood that the youth of the city had, and w-e find him in early manhood an officer
in the Massachusetts State Prison. He remained here until the Middlesex County officials
wanted him for turnkey at the East Cambridge Jail and Llouse of Correction, and he served
many years under the able administration of the late Capt. Charles J. Adams. Mr. Wade
left this position to be the first special agent on depredations in New England for the Post-
Office Department, and w-as made chief of the service in X'ew England. In 1879 " Honest
Tom Talbot," then governor, appointed Chief Wade to be the head of the Massachusetts Dis
trict Police, which force then consisted of two men and had direct charge of the enforcement
of two laws. It would be almost next to an impossibility to recapitulate the work of Chief
Wade during the almost twenty years he has held his important place of trust. Taking the
office in its utter meagreness, he has been obliged to originate plans for the successful ad
ministration of his departments. Work of various kinds has been heaped upon him until
now it can be said he has four distinct departments, the criminal, labor, inspection of boilers
and the licensing of engineers and firemen, and the inspection of factories, public buildings,
etc., and the plans of the same. The force now consists of forty-five men, with seventy
specific laws to be guarded and their strict enforcement seen to. Chief Wade is a recognized
authority throughout the world on factory inspection in its various phases, and has held for
a long time the presidency of the International Association of Factory Inspectors. He has
time, however, to devote to outside matters, as evinced by his having held the presidency of
the Cambridge Co-operative Bank since its formation seventeen years ago, the third to be
organized in the State, and now one of the leading luanks of its kind. He was at one time
an active politician, and was the founder of the renowned Middlesex Club. He is also a
prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, being high in the order. Chief Wade came
to Somerville twelve years ago, moving from Cambridge, and buflt the first house on the
heights at the left of the Powder House. He married Mary A., daughter of Jacob and Mary
Marsh of Hingham. She passed away March 27, 1894. Chief Wade is very proud of his
connection with the Third Universalist Church, of which he is one of the founders and best
friends. Wadleigh, William Y., Avas born at Sunapee, N. H., November 10, 1854. His early
years were passed in Newport, N. H., but at the age of fourteen, on the death of his father,
he was obliged to go to work to help support the family. His first experience as a wage-
earner was in farming, but being ambitious for a broader field of usefulness and improve
ment he left the farm after a year's service and went to Milford, X. H., in 1869, where he at
tended the public school a year and then went into a bank, ^vhere he remained until he came
to Boston in 1876 to accept a position with the wholesale grocery house of Wadleigh, An
drews & Co. He has been associated with the w-holesale grocery trade for twenty years,
and has been a partner in the firm of John A. Andrews & Co. for thirteen years. This
house has the reputation of being one of the largest and most honorable in the State, and
Mr. Wadleigh is well known to the trade as one of its most active members. Mr. ^^"adleigh
has lived on Highland avenue nearly twenty years : he takes a great interest in all pubUc
matters pertaining to the welfare of the city, but has always declined office of any kind. He
has one of the pleasantest homes in the city, and being of rather domestic tastes, prefers it
to social and club life.

Benjamin F. Freeman.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 64 1
Wadsworth, George M., was born in South Weymouth, April 4, 1857. He attended
the public schools of Pawtucket, R. I., and Fall River, Mass., graduating from the high
school of the latter city in 1874. After working several years, he entered the HoUiston
High School to prepare himself for college, and was admitted to Colby University in the fall
of 1879. At the close of his sophomore year, he was offered the grammar school in HoUis
ton, which position he accepted. Then, instead of returning to Colby to complete his col
lege course, he spent the last two years of his college life at Brow-n University, from which
he graduated in 1884. He became principal of the Renfrew School, of Adams, Mass., in the
fall of 1S84, which position he held untfl October, 1886, when he resigned to become prin
cipal of the Washington School, Quincy, Mass. Four months later he was transferred to the
Williard School, West Quincy. This position was held until May, 1890, when he accepted
the superintendency of the schools of the Bedford District. Upon the opening of the Charles
G. Pope School of Somerville, he became its principal, which position he still holds. While
superintendent of the Bedford District he was president of the Town and District Superin
tendents' Association; and at present he is financial secretary of the Teachers' Annuity
Guild, an association organized three years ago, and which now embraces twenty-nine cities
and towns in Eastern Massachusetts, with a membership of nearly 1300, of whom 112 teach
in Somerville, and has a fund of over $40,000. He is also president of the iliddlesex
County Teachers' Association.
Ware, Frank A., son of Preston J. and Lavinia (Lilly) Ware, was born in Baltimore,
Md., April 12, 1850. He was educated in the public schools of Newton, Mass., entered the
shoe business in his nineteenth year, and has continued in that business until the present
time, being now a member of the firm of Ware & Lincoln, shoe manufacturers, at Brockton,
Mass. He came to SomerviUe in 1879, and has resided here since that year. He was
married in 1880 to Carrie H. Langmaid, and they have four children, three sons and a
daughter. Mr. Ware is not a so-called club-man, but is widely known in social and busi
ness circles. He resides at 54 Dartmouth street.
Weld, William E., was born in Somerville, in January, 1852. He was educated in
the public schools of the city, and graduated from the high school in June, 1869. He was
a member of the city government four years, having served two years in the Common Coun
cil, and two in the Board of Aldermen. He was on the Board of Trustees of the Somerville
Public Library for nine years, was for three years treasurer of the Central Club, and has been
quite active in municipal politics, having been secretary and subsequently president of the
Democratic City Committee. He was for ten years in the boot and shoe business in Boston,
but is now engaged in the wholesale wine and Uquor trade in that city. He resides at 166
Summer St.
Wellington, J. Frank, was born in Lexington, X'ovember 20, 1849, the son of Horatio
and Mary Bowman (Teele) WeUington. The Wellington family has been settled in Water-
town and Lexington for two centuries, and was active in the early settlement of that region.
Moving to Charlestown, Mass., with his parents in his infancy, he was educated in the
schools of that city, graduating from the high school in 1S67. He began his business career
in the upholstery goods trade in Boston, in which he spent five years. He then became as
sociated with his father in the coal business, and in 18S4 a partnership was formed under
the firm name of Horatio Wellington & Co., and upon the death of his father, in 1894, he
became senior member, continuing the business under the same firm name. In 1875 he
moved to Somerville, and has always taken an active interest in the affairs of the city. In
i88l he served as a member of the Common Council, and in 1882 and 1883 was a member
of the Board of Aldermen. He was chosen a member of the First Board of Registrars of
Voters, and served for the years 1885 and 1886. In 1887 he was elected a member of the
Board of Health, serving for five years, four of which he was chairman.

642 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
.Mr. WeUington is now a member of the Board of Trustees of the Somerville Public
Library, having been elected to that position in 1893. H^ 's president of the Somerville
Co-operative Bank, a director of the SomerviUe National Bank, and a trustee of the Charles
town Five-Cents Savings Bank. He is a member of Soley Lodge F. A. A. M., of Unity Coun
cil R. A., and Howard Lodge I. O.O. F. of Charlestown, and is vice-president of the Central
Club of SomerviUe. He is also a memlier of the Board of Trustees of the Somerville Hos
pital, also of Tufts College and of the Woodlawn Cemetery. Mr. Wellington married
Charlotte A., daughter of Edwin and Sarah A. (Cutter) Hunnewell of Charlestown.
Wendell, Mina J., was born in Woburn, Mass., February, 20, 1853. She was edu
cated in the Woburn public schools, graduating from the high school in June, 1872. In
September after she was graduated she began to train for teaching, and in the following
spring her ability was tested in one of Woburn's hardest schools. Upon the completion of
the new (.'ummings grammar-school building in her native city, she was honored by an ap
pointment to teach in it, and was promoted from year to year, until she became principal of
the Central Grammar School. In June, 1882, much to the regret of the Woburn public, she
accepted a position as master's assistant in the Morse School in SomerviUe. During the
changes which subsecjuently occurred among the principals, Miss Wendell had entire charge
of the school, and so efficiently did she fill the position, that the citizens of Spring Hill sent
two petitions to the School C'ommittee, asking ihat she become the permanent principal of
the Morse School. She was finally elected to the position, one which was for the first
time in Somerville given to a woman, and she has in the service thus far rendered proved
her complete qualification for the situation. Unusual executive ability, rare tact, quickness
to adapt modern methods of public school teaching to the needs of her school, have marked
a success which shows that the confidence in her powers was not misplaced. Pier winning
personality and unusual power as a disciplinarian easily make her master of the most com
plicated and trying situations, and the force of her character and her personal interest in
the welfare of each pupil have left a lasting impression on the graduates of the Morse
.School. Miss Wendell is the daughter of a veteran soldier, her father having served in the
Civil War in Company E, Tenth X'. H. Volunteers. She is a member of the Teachers' An
nuity Guild, a member of the Current Events Committee of the Heptorean Club, and a
member of the Unitarian Church, Highland avenue.
Wentworth, Thomas S., was born in Acton, Me., in 1846. Lie resided in that town
until he was sixteen years old, when he went out into the world for himself. In the Civil War
he responded to the call for volunteers, and served in the army from 1862 to 1865. He was
a member of the 13th New Hampshire Regiment, was wounded May 16, 1864, at the battle
of Drury's Bluff, and again September 28, at Chapin's Farm. He served in the 9th, i8th, and
24th Army Corps, was before Petersburg in the summer of 1864, and participated in all the
battles of the regiment except when wounded. At the fall of Richmond, on the morning of
April 3, 1865, he entered the city, being a member of Gen. Charles Devens's division of the
24th Army Corps. Seventeen years ago (1878) the firm of Downs & Wentworth was estab
lished, and it has been built up by the efforts of the partners to its present prosperous status.
They are located at 40 and 42 Merchants Row, Boston. Mr. Wentworth served our city
two years in the Common Council, but declined an election to the Board of Aldermen. In
1894, 1895 ^'^^ 1896, he was a member of the School Committee. In the great semi-centen
nial celebration in 1892, he organized the parade and took command of one of the largest
processions, military and civic, ever formed in this State outside the city of Boston. In recog
nition of his valuable services on that occasion he received from the City Government a gold
medal. Mr. Wentworth has always taken an active interest in the Boston Fruit and Produce
Exchange, an organization of upwards of five hundred members, served two years as a direc
tor, and in 1896 was elected president of the association. He resides at 350 Broadway.

Thomas B. Blaikie.

Charles A. Dole.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST .4ND PRESENT. 645
Whitcomb, Charles T. C, son of John Gray and Mary Jane (Fountain) Whitcomb,
was born in Thomaston, Me., July I, 1861. His father was engaged in shipbuilding and re
moved to Boston in 1863, and later to Provincetown, Mass., where the subject of this sketch
passed his boyhood and received his early education, graduating from the classical de
partment of the high school of that place. Entering Amherst College in 1879, he received
the degree of A. B., w-ith honor in 1883, from that institution, and three years later, for
special work in English, the degree of A. M. Soon after graduation Mr. ^^'hitcomb accepted
a position at the head of the Sandwich Grammar School, and a few months later he was
placed in charge of the High School of that town. After four years' successful experience in
that position he w-as elected principal of the Wakefield High School in 1888, where he re
mained for a period of seven years, although during that time opportunities to take other
positions were offered. He has always identified himself with the social, religious and busi
ness interests of the community, being highly esteemed by his feflow-townsmen. Mr.
Whitcomb was the first president of the Barnstable County Teachers' Association. He has
been twice president of the Middlesex County Teachers' Association and president of the
Massachusetts High-School Masters' Club. He is also a member of the Massachusetts
Schoolmasters' Club. He is a member of Joseph Warren Royal Arch Chapter of Province-
town, and past master of De Witt Clinton Lodge, A. F. and A. M. of Sandwich, and a mem
ber of Excelsior Council No. 3, Royal Arcanum, East Somerville. On April 29, 1895, ^^
was elected head master of the English High School, Somerville, and at once began the task
of its organization. The school was opened in September, 1895, ^""^ under his management
it has already attained standing in the front rank of the high schools of the State. In 1889,
Mr. Whitcomb married Miss Charlotte Chapouile Waterman of Sandwich. Their children
are Rachel Gray, born June 3, 1891, and John Leonard, born .September 4, 1894. Mr.
Whitcomb resides at 12 Highland avenue.
White, Dr. Emory L., son of Jason and Betsy (Lincoln) White, was born at Provi
dence, R. L, May 15, 1848. His early days were chiefly passed in X'orton and Taunton in
this State; he was educated at a private school in Norton, where he was fitted for the aca
demic course. He entered the Harvard Medical School in 1868, graduated in 1872, and,
coming immediately to Somerville, established himself as a practitioner, and has remained
here ever since. He is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, the American
Medical Association, the Somerville and Cambridge Medical Societies, and the Harvard
Medical Alumni Association. He has been Supreme Medical Examiner of the United Order
of the Pilgrim Fathers for the last thirteen years; is medical examiner for the Metropolitan
Life Insurance Company of New York, and for the X'ew York Life Insurance Company^
and has been the city physician of SomerviUe, and a member of the Board of Health. He
is a member of John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., the Somervflle Royal Arch Chapter, and
the Orient Council of Royal and Select Masters. He married Miss Clara E. Grieves of Cam
bridge, by whom he has had one son. They reside at 30 Bow street.
White, Dr. Horace Carr, son of Gideon and Rhoda (Springer) White, was born in
Bowdoin, Me., January 26, 1836. His great-grandfather was one of the first settlers of
Bath, Me. The house which he built of hewed timber walls with port-holes for defence
against the Indians, stood untfl about a quarter of a century ago. This ancestor came from
Essex, Mass., and is said to be a descendant of Peregrine White. Dr. White w-as educated
at the Litchfield Liberal Institute, and graduated from the medical department of Bowdoin
CoUege in 1859. At the age of seventeen, he was compelled to leave school temporarily on
account of trouble with his eyes, and devoted about three years to business occupations in
Gardiner, Me., and Boston, devoting his leisure time in the latter place to attendance upon
Lowell Institute and other lectures. Returning to school in 1855, from that date to i860,
when he settled in Lisbon Falls, Me., as a physician, he was engaged in teaching about one

646 SOMERVILLE, PA.ST AND PRESENT.
third of the time. In March, 1861, he entered the Union Army as assistant surgeon of the
Eighth Maine Regiment. In July, 1863, he returned to Lisbon Falls, broken down in
health. Remaining there untU October, 1874, he removed to Somerville, where he has en
joyed a large practice. The doctor has been influential in educational matters for many
years. At Lisbon he was supervisor of schools for four years, and he has been a member of
the School Board of Somerville for twelve years. In Lisbon he served as selectman, over
seer of the poor and assessor for three years, and postmaster of the town from 1869 to 1874.
He lias been a trustee of the Somerville Hospital since its organization, and a member of the
medical board and of the medical and surgical staff. He is a member and ex-president of
the Boston Gynecological Society and of the Somerville Medical Society. He is a fellow of
the Massachusetts Medical Association, member of the Maine Medical Association, and of
the .\merican Medical Association, and was a member of the Xinth International Medical
Congress. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., De Molay Commandery, Knights
Templar, and of Orient Council. He is connected with the Loyal Legion, Grand Army of
the Republic, is ex-president of Sons of Maine of Somerville, and a member of the Jlystic
Valley and other clubs. In politics Dr. White is a steadfast Republican, and as such was
elected to the General Court .in 1896. He was married, June 4, i860, to Miss Mary Lithgow
Randall daughter of Capt. Paul and Nancy Randall of Harpswell, Me. Their children are
Lucy Frances, Bessie Randall, and Wflliam Horace White.
Whiting, Dr. George W. W., was born in Carmel, Me., May 4, 1864, the son of Rev.
Asa and Nancy A. (Whitney) Whiting. His early education was obtained in the home dis
trict schools, but at the age of fifteen he went to Washington, D. C, where he took a special
course at Spencer's Business College. Later, he entered the Maine Central Institute at
Pittsfield, where he prepared for college, entering Bowdoin College as a student in the
medical department. Lie finished his studies in the. University of the city of X'ew York,
where he was graduated from the medical department in 1887. He practiced medicine in
Orland, Me., four years, and came to Somerville in June, 1891, Avhere he has been engaged
in his profession steadily until the present time. He was married October 16, 1895, t° Miss
Alice Maude Lloyt, and they reside at 282 Broadway. Dr. Whiting is a member of the
.Massachusetts Medical Society, is examining physician for several insurance companies,
and one of the visiting physicians of the Somerville Hospital. He was elected a member of
the School Board in 1896 for a term of three years, is a member' of the Rising Sun Lodge,
F. .\. A. M., of Orland, Me., the Somerville Royal Arch Chapter, and the Orient Council.
He is not a club man, but is deeply interested in his profession and enthusiastic in its
practice. Wild, Benjamin F., was born in Somerville, October 8, 1853. He was the son of Charles
D. and Almira W. (Baldwin) Wild, who located in Somerville in 1843, ^^^ "'^s the first to
run a spring wagon in Boston. He was educated in the public schools, graduating from the
Prescott. He subsequently attended a Boston commercial college. .Yfter complete training
in the wholesale trade, he engaged in the wood and coal business, and, in 1877, opened a
yard at Charlestown Neck. With the enlargement of his business he located, in 1884, at
the capacious wharves on the Mystic River, where he still continues. Mr. Wild is a member
of .Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M., .Somervflle R. A. Chapter, Cieur de Lion Commandery, K.T.,
and is a charter member of Somerville Councfl, R. and .S. M. He is a member of Paul
Revere Lodge, I. 0. O. F., the Central and Webcowit Clubs ; also of the Exchange Club,
Boston, the 999th Artillery, and Charlestown Club, of Charlestown. He married Miss Amy
P. Faulkner, daughter of L. W. and Martha (Merriam) Faulkner, of Billerica. 'I'hey reside
on School street. Winter Hill.
Wiley, Isaiah H., comes of sturdy Cape Cod stock, such as has contributed so materi
ally to make the wealth and renown of Boston and the Commonwealth. He was born in

Isaiah H. Wiley.

G. Franklin Wilkins.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 649
Truro, Mass., December 5, 1852, the son of Freeman .\. and Mary C. (Harding) Wiley.
When he was very young his parents removed to Wellfleet, and there Mr. Wiley was reared
and educated, going to the village school steadily until he was eleven years of age, after which
he attended it only in the w-inter months until he was sixteen years old. During the remaining
months of the year he worked in his father's store, though, like many other Cape Cod boys,
he foUow-ed the sea for the most of the time in the summer months between the ages of
twelve and eighteen. In 1870 Mr. Wiley came to Boston and entered the employ of Wads
worth & Howland, and remained in that position six years. He then went into business on
his own account, first in the copartnership of White & Wiley, they purchasing the business
of Crowell Bros. & Co. Subsequently the firm was changed to White, Wiley & Co., the new-
partner being B. J. Richardson. Sometime thereafter Mr. Wiley and Mr. Richardson
bought out Mr. White's interest, when the firm name was changed to \\'iley & Richardson-
In March, 1888, Mr. Richardson retired, since which time Mr. Wiley has conducted the
business alone, under the firm style of I. H. Wiley & Co. He does a large and successful
wholesale business in a general line of paints, oils, varnishes, and painters' supplies, having a
large store on Sudbury street, and a well-equipped factory on Portland street. Mr. Wiley
came to Somerville in 1878, and served the city in the Common Councils of 1891 and 1892,
being President of the Council in 1892. He is a member of Soley Lodge, F. A. A. M.,
Somerville Chapter R. A., De Molay Commandery, K. T., Wonohaquaham Tribe, I. 0. R. M.,
Excelsior Chapter, R. A., Webcowit Club, the Paint & Oil Club of X'ew England (of which
club he is now president), and a number of other organizations in different portions of the
State. He married Miss Mary C. Porter, daughter of James F. and Mary C. (Parker)
Porter, and their residence is at 54 Mt. Vernon street.
Wilkins, G. Franklin, was born in Boston, January 4, 1857. He lived in that city
until fourteen years of age, with the exception of one year, 1863, which was spent in Somer
vflle, where he attended the Prospect Hill School. In 1871 he located in Somerville perma
nently, and has resided in Ward 3 since that year. He completed his education in the
Somerville High .School, graduating in the class of 1875. '^''^- W'ilkins, soon after leaving
school, went into business, and is now a member of the firm of F. Wilkins &Son, forwarders
for the Boston & Maine Railroad, Southern Division, one of the oldest trucking firms in
Boston. He was an active member of the Republican Ward and City Committee for several
years, and its secretary for one year. Mr. Wilkins is a member of the Winter Hill Lodge,
A. O. U. W., and of the Central Club. He served the city two years in the Common Council.
His residence is at 98 Central street.
Willey, Clarence H., son of Rufus W. and Lydia O. (Hoyt) Willey, was born in
Concord, N. H., January 17, 1858, and came to this city when nine years of age, living, untfl
1891, on FUnt street, when the family moved to a new and beautiful home at 26 Dartmouth
street, then being developed. He was educated in the Prescott and High Schools, leaving,
after two years, to attend a commercial college. He worked for Moulton & Bradley from
1879 to 1883, and then went with his father, who had succeeded General Alfred Hoyt,
an ancestor, and the pioneer shipper of baled hay to Boston, thirty-five years ago. The
father and son have conducted a very successful hay and grain business, and, in addition to
their Beverly street store, have a large place at Beverly Farms, where they ply a substantial
private stable trade. Mr. Willey was elected to the Common Council in 1889 and 1890, and
an Alderman from AVard I in 1891, declining re-election the following year by reason of his
removal to Ward 3. He is a member of Soley Lodge, past high priest of Somerville Royal
Arch Chapter, a member of Orient Council, Cceur de Lion Commandery, Excelsior Councfl,
Central Club, the A. O. U. W., and the Boston Chamber of Commerce. In 1884 he married
Miss Mary Appleton, a daughter of John C. and Mary J. Appleton, now both deceased, but
who had lived many years in Somerville.

650 SOMERVILLE, PAST .AND PRESENT.
Willis, Dr. Reuben, was born at Belchertown, Mass., in 1842, and was fitted for col
lege in the Milford High School. He dropped his studies at the breaking out of the Rebel
lion, and enlisted in 1861 in the Twenty-fifth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, which
joined the Burnside expedition to North Carolina. He served two and one-half years in the
war, during which he took part in several battles, among which were those of Roanoke Is
land and Newberne, N. C. Lie was slightly wounded at Newberne, and was honorably dis
charged, on account of physical disability, in December, 1863. He subsequently resumed
his studies and entered Harvard Medical College, graduating in 1867. Dr. Willis was estab
lished as a physician three and one-half years in Weston, Mass., and came to Somerville in
1871, where he still resides and practices his profession. He was married in 1868 to
Eugenia, daughter of the late WiUiam Stowe of Arlington, president of the American X'et
and Twine Company. They reside at 285 Broadway. Dr. Willis served on the Somerville
School Board four years, 1872 et seq., is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, a
member of the medical staff of the Somerville Hospital, and in his profession is widely and
favorably know-n.
Wilson, Francis M., was born at Sterling, III., December 24, 1858. With his parents
he removed to Kansas City, ilo., and three years later, the father having died, the family
removed to Lanark, 111., where, at the age of twenty, Mr. WUson engaged in the furniture
and undertaking business, in which he continued until May, 1893, when he came to Somer
ville, and purchased the old and well-known establishment of Horace D. Runey, at 103
Cross street, where he still continues in business. i\Ir. Wilson was educated in the public
schools of Sterling and Lanark, 111., and of Kansas City, Mo. He is a member of the Cen
tral Club, the John Abbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., the Somervifle Chapter, R. .A M., the De.
Molay Commandery, K. T., the Paul Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F., and the Excelsior Council,
R. A. Mr. Wilson was elected to the Common Council in 1896.
Winship, Albert Edward, author, editor of .Journal of Education, Boston, lecturer,-
son of Isaac and Drusilla (Lothrop) Winship, was born at West Bridgewater, Mass., Febru
ary 24, 1845. H^ '^ descended from Lieut. Edward Winship, who came to Cambridge from
England in 1634. He studied in Bridgewater Normal School, .\ndover Theological Semin
ary; served, as private in .Sixtieth Massachusetts Regiment the last year of the Civil War. He
taught first in Maine, going from that school to take charge of a grammar school in X'ewton,
Mass., for three years, afterward teaching for four years in Bridgewater Normal. He was
for nine years pastor of Prospect Hill Church in Somerville, leaving that charge to take the
office of secretary of the New West Educational Commission. Since 1885 he has been editor
and publisher of the Journal of Education. In 1890 and 1891 was editor-in-chief of the
" Boston Daily Traveler." As a lecturer connected with Redpath Lyceum Bureau, he is
widely known in every .State from Maine to California, going regularly each year to the
Pacific Coast. He has a wide reputation as a many-sided writer and campaign speaker.
He has published "Methods and Principles," "Essentials of Psychology," etc. He is a
member of the Republican .State Committee of Massachusetts, and w-as a member of the St.
Louis Convention that nominated McKinley. August 24, 1872, he married Miss Ella R.
Parker, daughter of .Stillman E. and Lavinia P. Parker, of Reading, Mass. His children are
George Parker, Edith A., Luella P., Edna E., Lawrence L., Mildred L. Winship. He has
resided in Somerville for more than twenty years, and has been closely identified with public
affairs. His residence is at 74 Perkins street.
Woodberry, William H., was born in Newburyport, Mass., August 18, 1855, the son
of Orsment and Miriam P. (Johnson) Woodberry. He is essentially a Somerville boy, hav
ing moved here with his parents when less than two years of age. He was educated in the
public schools of this city, and early in life went into business. Lie is well known in the
produce trade of Boston, having been for many years in the employ of Sawin, Edwards &

S

¦r

'%
\
m
jll^
m
^^^^^
Wm
Hy *^^
'"¦>>^^
?»
wt ^
^jIH y"
¦v^mf^f-
¦ T- -
is*"
f
B. Frank Wild.
Clarence H. Willey.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 653
Co., and for the last six years a partner in the firm of R. S. Edwards & Co., at 15 Blackstone
street. In 1880 he became a member of Soley Lodge, .•\. F. and A. iSI., has always taken an
active interest in Masonic affairs, and is the present master of the lodge. In 1887 he was
married to Miss .\lice S. Farnum, of Warner, N. IL, by whom he has had one daughter. They
reside at 181 Central street.
Woodcock, Shephard S., was born October 6, 1824, at Sidney, Kennebec County,
Me. At the age of seventeen he came to this state, and served four years as an apprentice
at the building trade; after the expiration of his apprenticeship he carried on the trade in
Boston for over ten years, during which he gave much time to the study of his chosen
profession of architecture. He subsequently devoted much study to landscape gardening,
and was for a time the landscape designer for the Public Garden in Boston; he also laid
out forty acres of land in Lowell for the late Samuel Fay, whose house he designed. During
the past forty years he has designed and erected upwards of one hundred and forty churches,
and fifty schoolhouses, many of which are in this city, and various public buildings, hotels,
institutions, etc., and numerous high-class residences, one of the finest being that of Mr.
Frederick Ayer, of LoweU. Among the prominent structures designed and erected by Mr.
Woodcock are the Howard Seminary at Bridgewater, Mass., the Sanborn Seminary al King
ston, N. H., the high-school houses at Franklin, Mass., and Keene, N. H., and the Masonic
HaUs at HaverhiU, Hudson, Natick, Abington, Attleborough and Chelsea, Mass. Many
manufacturing buildings have been erected from his plans, such as the Pacific Mill, and the
woolen mill, one hundred and forty feet wide and four hundred and fifty feet long, at Law
rence, Mass. Many public buildings have been remodeled under his supervision, such as
the Huntington Hall in Lowell, the City Hall in Haverhill, Mass., and the Rockingham Bank
and the First X'ational and Savings Bank of Portsmouth, X'. H. He also furnished the de
signs for the soldiers' monuments in Lowell, Natick and Danvers, and was the architect in
charge of the proposed alterations of the Masonic Temple in Boston, before the fire; he
finished the construction of the Rice Library Building at Kittery, Me., and wai the architect
for the dweUing-house of H. E. Wright on Pearl street, this city, iflustrated in this volume.
Mr. Woodcock is a prominentmember of several societies, being a life member of the Mass.
Charitable Mechanic Association, a life member of the De Molay Commandery, K. T., a
member of the Pine Tree State Club of Boston, the Sons of Maine, John Abbot Lodge, F.
A. A. M., of SomerviUe, and Waverly Royal Arch Chapter of Melrose. Few architects have
had the patronage from our best citizens that Mr. Woodcock has received, and his success
has been phenomenal. His place of business is at 40 State street, Boston, and his home is
at 38 Pearl street, this city, w-here he has resided with his family for more than thirty-five
years. Mr. Woodcock has devoted much time and thought to the development of Somer
ville, and has served the city three years as a member of the School Committee.
Woods, Edward F., was born in SomerviUe, March 14, 1864, the son of Henry'F. and
Lucy Adams (Magoun) Woods. He attended the Forster Grammar School, and fitted for
Harvard at the SomerviUe High School. Was graduated from Harvard University in 1885.
Immediately after graduation, in order to obtain a business education, he spent two years in
the Maverick X'ational Bank. He then entered the fire insurance business as a clerk, and
in six months became member of the firm of Crane & Woods to continue the insurance busi
ness established by Wesley C. Crane in 1868. .Y few years later a combination was made of
the insurance agency business of Freeman & Vinton, Frederic Hinckley and Crane & Woods,
under the name of Hinckley & Woods. This firm are the head agents for Boston and vi
cinity of the Northern Assurance Co. of London, the Equitable Fire & Marine Insurance Co.
of Providence, the X'orthwestern X'ational Insurance Co. of Milwaukee, and the Thuringia In
surance Co. of Germany. In 1891 he married Bertha L. Hutchins, daughter of Horatio H.
Hutchins of Somerville, and moved to West Newton,[where he now resides. Mr. \\'oods is

Francis M. Wilson.

Residence of Charles B. Wyman, 67 Thurston Street.

Edward F. Woods.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 657
a member of the Central Club, of which he was formerly secretary, Soley Lodge, A. F. and
.\. M., of SomerviUe, the Exchange Club and Chamber of Commerce of Boston, is a director
in the South End Industrial School, and is a member of the Newton Club, the X'eighborhood
Club and the X'ewton Boat Club of Xewton.
Wright, Eobert S., was born at the " X'orth End," on Commercial street, Boston, ilarch
30, 1858. He was educated in the public schools of his native city, and graduated from the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1876. The business in which he embarked was
that of architectural draughtsman, and he is now a furniture designer, and has for fifteen years
been connected with the firm of A. B. & E. L. .Shaw as designer and superintendent of their
large works in East Cambridge. Mr. Wright came to SomerviUe in June, 1889, and has
served the city in the Common Council, and as a member of the Board of Aldermen.
He is a member of the Central Club, the John .\bbot Lodge, F. A. A. M., the Order of Red
Men, and the Designers' Club ; he is also a director of the West Somervflle Co-operative Bank,
and an associate member of Company M, Eighth Regiment. He is married, and resides at
1 1 Summit avenue.

SUPPLEMENT.

The following biographical sketches were not received in time for insertion in their
alphabetical positions.
Berry, Arthur W., was the son of John Adams and Mary (Wilde) Berry, and «as
born in iloultonboro, X'. H., July 27, 1858, where he Uved until eighteen, when, after re
siding in several places, he finally came to Somerville in 18S2, and one year later went into
the carpenter business with Charles .\. Slager, under the firm name of Berry cV .Slager. This
copartnership lasted until 1888, when the firm was dissolved, Mr. Berry continuing alone,
and erecting about seventy-five houses, some costing as high as Sl2,ooo. February 25, 1890,
he married Miss Jennie Louise Knight, of Port Aupique, X". S., and occupied a new home on
Hudson street. They have one child. Mr. Berry has revolutionary ancestry on both sides
of his parentage. His mother's grandfather, Daniel Conant, participated in the Concord
fight, .A.prfl 19, 1775, served in the war until the end, and was wounded. Mr. Berry is a
steward of the First M. E. Church, is a member of the Sons of the Revolution, and the V.
M. C. A. In 1895 ^^ ^^^^ elected a member of the Common Council, serving on three im
portant committees, and w-as re-elected for 1897.
Blaikie, Thomas B., was born in Onslow, near Truro, N. S., September 14, 1836, a son
of John and Sarah .-^nn (Vuill) Blaikie. One of his ancestors, a snuff-dealer, came to this
country from Scotland in the ship Hector in 1639, and settled near Boston. Mr. Blaikie, at
the age of seventeen, came to Massachusetts, and %vorked at the carpenter's trade, which he
learned from his father, and he was employed in Brookline and East Boston, and on the
People's Ferry, then being constructed. He went to Melrose, w-here he remained tw-o
years, and, at the age of nineteen, took the first contract on his own responsibility, and
buflt a fine residence for his employer, earning great credit for his skill, industry and thor
oughness. He returned to Onslow, and on October 15, 1S57, married Eliza W., daughter of
Daniel and Margaret Cummings. He came to Cambridgeport, after working two years in
his native tow-n, and was foreman for a building firm w-hen Ira Hill was about starting his
speculative career, and Mr. Blaikie became interested with him, building, first, several houses
on Grand View avenue, then others in quick succession, until, w-hen he had finished, he had
built Hotel Warren, Hill Building, tw-o blocks of residences, a bakehouse, and several

Arthur W. Berry.

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT. 659
houses on Warren avenue. The next section of the city to receive his attention was the
Prospect Hill district, and the bare hfll soon began to blossom wilh pretty homes, three of
which were occupied by Mr. Blaikie and two of his sons. It would be unnecessary to recapitu
late all the work done by Mr. Blaikie. The Prospect Hill Church, Cummings School, and Agas-
siz School in Cambridge, the Day-street Church, the Hudson-street district, the work done on
the Little estate in Boston, and others, are among the three hundred buildings of various
kinds w-hich he has constructed, causing him to be the most extensive builder Somerville has
ever know-n. Mr. and Mrs. Blaikie have had three sons, Alfred C, Edwin K., and Will E.,
the former being in the real estate business, and the two latter Boston architects with fine
reputations for character and work. There are also two daughters, Ida May and Lena
Blanche. Mr. Blaikie was one of the founders of Putnam Commandery X'o. 38, U. O. G. C,
and is still a member. He has always taken a great deal of interest in politics, and is an
ardent Republican. Outside of his home his next hearibeat is for the Prospect Hill Church,
where he and his family are highly esteemed members and officials in one degree or another.
Clark, Herbert L., son of William L. and .Mary Mellissa (Hanks) Clark, was born in
South Boston, October 10, 1861. He received his education in the public schools of Somer
ville, and in Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College, Boston. He was employed as book
keeper in the cashier's office of the Boston & Maine Railroad for a year, then for eleven
years served in the same capacity for Farley, Harvey & Co., of Boston. He left that firm to
enter a partnership with his father in 1 891, under the name of W. L. Clark & Co., contractors
and builders. The firm is well known among master-builders, they having erected the
Public Library, Stickney Building, Litchfield Block, the Citizen Building in SomervUle; the
Hotel Savoy, Colchester Hotel, Beacon street, Boston; the Parental School, West Roxbury;
and many other notable edifices. Mr. Clark w-as a member of the Common Council of Somer
ville in 1893 and 1894. He is at present Junior Warden of .Soley Lodge of Masons, a mem
ber of Somerville Chapter, R. A. Masons, of Orient Council, R. S. M., and of De Molay
Commandery, Boston, also of the Central Club and the A. O. U. W. He married Miss Lil-
Uan A. Foss of Old Town, Me., in 1887. His residence is at 124 Sycamore street, and his
place of business at 17 Milk street and 166 Devonshire street, Boston.
Dole, Charles A., son of Moses and Sarah Boardman (Titcomb) Dole, was born in
Danvers (now Peabody), Mass., December 4, 1826. Lie is of the seventh generation in de
scent from Richard Dole, who at the age of fifteen years landed at X'ewbiiry Old Town, Mass.,
emigrating from Bristol, England, in the year 1639. The Genealogical Register of January,
1884, contains the foUowing notice of Richard Dole : " Richard Dole, the first American an
cestor of all Doles of New England origin, and it is beUeved of most of those who bear the
name in America, was baptized in Ringworthy, near Bristol, England, 1622 O. S. Ring-
worthy had been the residence of his father, William, then living in Thombury, indented
young Richard to ' John Lowle, Glover of Bristol.' When the brothers John and Richard Lowle ,
and their father Percival, the ancestor of the present eminent family of Lowells, came to this
country in 1639, they brought Richard Dole with them. The Lowle family settled in X'ew-
bury, Mass., and Richard Dole continued in their employ as a clerk, for a time. But he en
tered early, and with great activity and enterprise, upon business for himself He long held
a prominent place as a merchant in X'ewbury, and also became an extensive landholder, and
left at his decease an estate of ^1,840 — a large property for those times. He built and made
his home through life on the north bank of the river Parker, just below- where 'Oldtown
bridge ' is now located. He was a man of marked abihty and upright character, influential
and respected as a citizen and Christian. He died at the age of eighty-three years." The
house he built is now standing and is well preserved.
Educated in the pubUc schools of Danvers, Mr. Dole, at the age of fifteen years, entered
the employ of his uncle Wheeler, of the Salem Market House in Salem, Mass. He also

66o SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT.
carried on a large slaughtering and packing business, supplying the numerous ships that at
that period belonged to Salem. In the winter of 1848 and 1849 he caught the " gold fever,"
and joined the Salem and Cahfornia Mining Company, who purchased the barque La Grange,
sailing from Salem, March 17, arriving at the "Golden Gate," September 17, 1849. The
Company of sixty-five disbanded October 29 following, and its members became scattered
throughout the mining regions, of whom only about twelve survive. After spending some
years in the "land of gold," he returned to his native place, and in August, 1854, came to
Somerville, and became superintendent for the well-known spice firm of Stickney & Poor at
their factory in Charlestown, a position he has continued to hold for forty-two years, a portion
of the time as partner. He is a director in the Stickney & Poor Spice Co., succeeding the old
firm. In 1883 he was the originator of the first Society of California Pioneers formed in the
New England States, and at the present time is president of " The Society of California Pi
oneers of X'ew England," numbering over three hundred members. In the year 1870 he built
the residence on Perkins street. East .SomerviUe, where he continues to reside. He has been
twice married, and has a daughter and two sons from the second union, all of whom are now
living. Emerson, John Sherman, was born in Richmond, Va., January 13, 1859, being a direct
descendant of Michael Emerson, who landed at Ipswich, Mass., in 1652. His daughter was
Hannah Dustin, of Indian fame. Another descendant was Col. X'athaniel Emerson, of Can-
dia, N. H., who won distinction in the Revolutionary War. Mr. Emerson's father, Richard
Emerson, of Candia, X'. H., married Miss Margaret Wade. He saw service in the iSIexican
War, and in the latter part of the Rebellion followed the fortunes of Lee's armyas a band
master. He died iir California. Two years later, his mother dying in Richmond, the subject
of this sketch, then eight years of age, came north, attended the public schools of Haver
hill, Mass., and of Great Falls, N. H. After two years at Sedgwick Institute, in Western
Massachusetts, he entered the Bridgewater X'ormal School. Before completing his course
there he taught in a "little red schoolhouse" for a short time, and organized the village
High School in Candia, X'. IL, which he taught for two years, afterwards returning to
Bridgewater, where he was graduated in 1881. He went directly from the Normal School to
Rockland, Mass., to take charge of a grammar school. He left that position for a more lucra
tive one in Hingham; thence he went to (Quincy, and later to Maiden, having been induced
in each instance to make the change for a larger salary. In Aprfl, 1894, Mr. Emerson
entered upon the duties of his present position in charge of the O. S. Knapp School in this
city. Since his coming to the school the building has been enlarged by the addition of four
rooms and a ward-room, and the membership has increased to upwards of six hundred pupils.
Mr. Emerson's record is one of which any teacher might well be proud. He seems to have
been born for the work of teaching, and his success commenced with his first experience,
and has been continuous; and yet he is most unassuming. He came to Somerville with the
unequivocal endorsement of such well-known educators as Mrs. Abbie M. Gannett, Super
intendents C. A. Daniels and George E. Gay, of Maiden, and others. In April, 1890, at
.Maiden, he was married to Miss Charlotte L. Poison, who had been a successful teacher in
Quincy, Mass., — a union which has contributed greatly to Mr. Emerson's success.
Freeman, Benjamin F., son of Edwin A. and Fanny (Jaycox) Freeman, was born al
Oshkosh, Wis., September 23, 1854, and learned photography at the age of eighteen, iu
Rochester, N. V. Five years later he came to .Somerville, establishing a small studio on Lin
coln street. It was considered a daring act for a young man of twenty-three to launch into
an enterprise that had so questionable an outlook for success. But Mr. Freeman had merit
and push to assist him, and in two years he was obliged to go to his present studio, at 42
Broadway. He had ascertained that the people in this city and vicinity would patronize him
if he offered them the same inducements as could be had in the metropolis, and accordingly

John G. Hall.

662 SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.
he supplied every facility and appointment for the best work in every line of artistic photog
raphy; and the thousands who have had the benefit of his services — many of them being
represented in this work — can attest to his success and skill. The high grades of work
have commanded universal praise, and many a home has been made more beautiful by one
of his pastels of some dear friend. He married Miss A. A. Baldwin, of Fulton, N. Y., in
1883, and has a son and daughter. On his mother's side, a trace in lineage is made direct
to the renowned Ethan Allen. Mr. Freeman is a member of Soley Lodge, and of the Pho
tographers' Association of America.
Hall, John G., son of Lieut. Seth and Rhoda (Gilmore) Hall, was born in Raynham,
Mass., October 27, 1810. He left his birthplace at the age of sixteen, walked to Boston,
and entered the employ of his brother, who was conducting a provision store at the corner
of Cambridge and Temple streets. A few years afterwards he went into the shipping and
commission business, at 64 Chatham street, with Frederick Ladd, under the firm name of
Ladd & Hall, which, at the death of the senior member in 1865, was changed to John G.
Hall & Co. He subsequently took his two sons, Herbert C. and Irving G., into business,
who, at his decease, August 10, 1881, succeeded him. Mr. Hall always enjoyed a name
honored for his business integrity, exceUent judgment, enterprise and industry. He married
Sarah Gushing, daughter of Isaac Gushing, of Boston, in 1846, and they lived in Cambridge
three years, when they occupied a new home erected for them at the corner of Summer and
Belmont streets. It was among the first to be built on Spring Hill, and is still the Hall home
stead. Mr. Hall was always held in the highest esteem by his townsmen, and, as he took a
lively interest in the welfare of Somerville, his services were often in demand. He w-as a
member of the School Board from 1859 to 1865, a member of the Board of Selectmen from
1869 to 1871, and of the first Board of Aldermen in 1872. His son, Herbert C. Hall, was
a member of the Common Council in 1884 and 1885, and was president the latter year.
Mr. Hall left a wife, five sons and one daughter, the latter being Mrs. Charles E. Ladd, of
Portland, Ore.
Hathaway, Harry F., was born in Rutland, Mass., January 16, 1862, a son of Frank
lin and Mary A. (Davis) Hathaw-ay. When quite young his parents moved to this city,
where Harry was educated in the Brastow, Lincoln, Luther V. Bell and High Schools, grad
uating from the latter in 1882, when he took a prominent part in the French dialogue at the
class graduation. He was a bookkeeper for the Supreme Council of the Royal Arcanum
three years, but wishing to continue in educational work, he went to the Bridgewater Normal
School, where he remained four years, graduating in 1889. The same year he was elected
principal of the Lincoln School, where he had once been wont to obey instead of to govern.
The school had been removed from the former site on Elm street to the top of Clarendon
Hill, a new building taking the place of the old one. Three years ago, when the Bingham
Schoolhouse was enlarged, it was deemed best to put a male principal over the school, and
Mr. Hathaway was elected to succeed Miss Byard, and his duties have called forth the best
elements in his make-up. He has had fine success, and the improvement has been very
marked. Mr. Hathaway's parents removed to Vinal avenue about fifteen years ago, when
the locahty was almost unoccupied with houses, but they have all participated in the great
development. In September, 1896, Mr. Llathaway married Miss Carrie E. Fay, one of his as
sistants in school work, and they now reside in the Hathaway home on Vinal avenue, the
other members of the family having returned to the old homestead at Rutland, Mass. Mr.
Hathaway is a genius in the way of teaching, avaUing himself of every possible means to the
end that his scholars may be thoroughly instructed. He has made two summer trips through
Europe on the bicycle, in company with Mr. Harry N. Andrews of the Dwight School, Bos
ton, and learned much which he was able to impart to his pupils.

Dr. H. P Hemenway.

Residence of L. V. Niles, 45 Walnut Street.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST AND PRESENT. 665
Hemenway, Dr. Horace P., was born at Rochester,Vt., X'ovember 17, 1831, and was a son
of Sidney S. and Miranda (Pierce) Llemenway. He lived for a time in Barton, Vt.. but came
a young man to Somerville, w-here he remained about thirty-five years, until his death, March
6, 1896. He married October 30, 1855, Sarah E., daughter of Isaac S. and Betsey (Davis)
Gross, and had four children, three of whom, Charles M., Sarah G. (Bell) and Louise R.,
survive him. He was a graduate of the Harvard Medical School, and after graduation was,
during his w-hole life, actively engaged in the practice of his profession in .Somerville and the
adjoining to\\-ns, where he was widely known and loved. He was at one time president of
the Massachusetts Hoim.eopathic Medical Society. He was much interested in Masonry, was
the first Master of Soley Lodge, and was a past Eminent Commander of De Molay Com
mandery of Knights Templar of Boston. During his residence in Somerville he was in
1870 and 1871 a member of the School Board. In 1888 he was again elected a member of
the board, and his term had not expired at the time of his death. He was a member of the
First Orthodox Congregational Church, and was always much interested in its w-elfare and
active in its support.
Niles, Louville V., was born in X'orth Jay, Me., in January, 1S39. He was the son
of \'aranes X'iles, who when an infant was left fatherless. The mother and her child left
Randolph, Mass., when he was about four years of age, and settled in X'orth Jay. The
mother of the subject of this sketch was Mehitable Harris, of Greene, ^le. Mr. Xiles passed
his boyhood in his native town until i860, when he came to Boston, working in the provision
business, and in 1870 started out for himself, forming a copartnership with two brothers,
under the firm name of Niles Brothers, which copartnership continued for twenty-six years,
when it was merged into the Boston Packing and Provision Company. Industry, honorable
dealing, and strict attention to business have accomplished fine success for the house. Their
establishments are located on Concord avenue, Cambridge, and North Market street, Bos
ton.- Mr. X'iles removed with his family from Boston in 1882, purchasing the Bradshaw
estate on Walnut street, and eight years later built a new house on the old site, which ex
tends from Munroe to Boston street.
Wemyss, George D., son of James and Margaret (Duncan) \\'emyss, was born in
ITawick, Scotland, in 1842. When he was a lad of twelve years the family located in
Charlestown. Mr. Wemyss removed to SomerviUe in 1881. He has been prominent in
public affairs, having served two years as Councilman and a like term on the Board of
Aldermen. For about six years he has been a member of the Somerville Water Board, hav
ing been its president for the past four years. He is a member of Henry Price Lodge, A.
F. and A. M., of Howard Lodge and Bunker Hifl Encampment, I. O. O. F., aU of Charles
town, and is a vice-president of the Scotch Charitable Society, and a member of the British
Charitable Society. Mr. Wemyss married Miss Agnes Elliott, of North Andover, Mass., on
January 3, 1886. They have had four children; their two sons are now in school. Mr.
Wemyss is engaged in the manufacture of furniture, his factory being located at 511 Med
ford street, Charlestown. He resides at 5 Austin street.

INDEX.

Aldrich, Capt. Harrison, portrait of, 407.
Ancient Order of United Workmen, 404.
Anderson, Rev. George S. K., church history
by. 305-
Andrews, James M., portrait of, 159; John,
portrait of, 123.
Arcadia Lodge, Knights of Pythias, 405.
Armstrong, WiUiam M., portrait of, 375.
Arnold, L. Frank, portrait of, 485.
Associated Charities, history of tlie, 351.
Atkinson, Rev. Thomas, church history by,
324-
Backus, Edward, portrait of, 496.
Bailey, Ernest W., portrait of, 175; J. Warren,
portrait of, 449.
Baldwin, Fred C., portrait of, 199.
Ball, John N., portrait of, 172.
Banks of Somerville, history of the, 446.
Baptist Church, E. SomerviUe, history of the,
282; iUustration of the, 281 ; First, history
of the, 102, 285; illustration of the, 284;
Perkins-streel, liistory of the, 102, 289; il
lustration of the, 330; Union Square, his
tory of the, 290; illustration of the, 330;
West Somerville, illustration of the, 330;
Winter Hill, history of the, 290, 293; illus
tration of the, 292.
Barnes, Walter S., portrait of, 247.
Baxter, George E., portrait of, 490; George
L., long term of service, 221, 233; portrait
of, 223.
liean, James W., portrait of, 492.
Beekman, Rev. Garret, portrait of, 322.
Belknap, Austin, administration of as mayor,
150, portrait of, 147.
Bell, Luther V., portrait of, 192.
Bennett, Clark, portrait of, 192; Dana W.,
residence of, 494.
Bentley, George W., residence of, 486.
Berry, J. F., residence of, 76; William H.,
portrait of, 164; Arthur W., portrait of, 658.
Bingham, Norman W., portrait of, 191.
Binney, Martin, portrait of, 363.
Biographies; 484; supplementary, 657.
Bishop, Hiram R., portrait of, 497; Rev.
Nathan K., portrait of, 311 ; Residence of,
481.
Blaikie, Thomas B., portrait of, 643.
Bleachery, Middlesex, history of the, 78.
Boston & Maine R. R. System, 465, 468;
Boston, siege of, 57, 58, 63, 69.

Bradshaw, Charles H., residence of, 481.
Brainard, Charles E., portrait of, 216a.
Brastow, George, administration of as mayor,
145, 149; Portrait of, 147.
Breed's Hill, battle of, 61.
Brick-making in Somerville, 77, 460.
Briggs, J. Albion, portrait of, 498.
Brigham, William E., history of the fire de
partment by, 269; history of the police
department by, 253; Portrait of, 478.
British and Hessian prisoners in Somerville,
71. 74-
British engineers, plan of fortifications by,
71-
Broadway Congregational Church, history of
the, 294; illustration of the, 296; Park,
history, 134, 149; view on, frontispiece.
Bruce, George A., administration of as mayor,
143; portrait of, 147.
Bunker Hill, battle of, 53, 54.
Burgoyne, General, surrender of, 70.
Burlen, Lorenzo W., portrait of, 503.
Burns, Mark F., administration of as mayor,
153; portraits of, 151, 191.
Butler, John Haskell, portrait of, 252.
Butters, Charles S., portrait of, 504; Rev.
George S., Church history by, 317; por
trait of, 319.
Byam, Wifliam A., portrait of, 83; residence
of, 84.
Caleb Rand Lodge, I. O. O. F., 389.
Cameron Lodge, Knights of Honor, 405.
Carpenter, Allen F., portrait of, 176.
Carr, Martin W., portrait of, 184.
Carville, Dr. Alphonso H., portrait of, 339.
Central Club Association, history of the, 415;
Fire station, illustration of tlie, 279; Hill
park, history of, 122, 157.
Chamberlin, Mrs. Harriet A., portrait of,
396.
Chandler, Leonard B., portrait of, 167.
Charity Club, history of the, 433.
Chase, Daniel E., portrait of, 379.
Cheney, Frederick E., portrait of, 400.
Churches, history of the, 33, 102, 282, 297,
308, 33°-
Citizen building, illustration of the, 477.
City charter, 126, 166, 169; city government,
history of the, 145, 173; hall, improve
ments in the, 165; officials, how appointed,
1 56, 169.

SO.MERVILLE, PAST .IND PRESENT.

667

Civil war, Somerville's record in the, 105, no,
H4, 117.
Clark, Elijah C, portrait of, 429; Herbert L.,
portrait of, 637; Joseph, portrait of, 44;
J. Foster, paper by, 428; portrait of, 430.
Clarridge, George, F., history of the Y. M.
C. A. by, 372; portrait of, 373.
Coats, Rev. Orville, Church history by, 282.
Coddington, Rev. I. P., Church history by, 328.
Cole, Dr. Anna B. Taylor, portrait of, 349.
Congregational Church, Broadway, history of
the, 294; illustration of the, 296; Day
Street, history of the, 297; illustration of
the, 13; Highland, history of the, 305; il
lustration of the, 307; Prospect HiU, his
tory of the, 306; illustration of the, 330;
Winter Hifl, history of the, 306; illustra
tion of the, 308.
Congregational (Unitarian) Church, history
of the, 102, 299; illustrations of the, 300,
302.
Constellation Lodge, Odd Ladies, history of,
403-
Convent, Ursuline, destruction of the, 81, 82.
Conversation Club, history of the, 435.
Cox, Edward, portrait of, 511; residence of,
512.
Crosby, Cyrus F., portrait of, 520.
Cummings, David, portrait of, 52; John A.,
administration of as mayor, 153; portrait
of, 191.
Cunningham, Thomas, portrait of, 19.
Curtis, Dr. Henry F'., portrail of, 340.
Cushman, Charles A., portrait of, 453.
Cutler, S. Newton, portrait of, 188.
Dana, X'. B., portrait of, 398.
Daughters of Maine Club, history of, 416.
Davis, Joshua H., paper by, on history of the
schools, 177; portraits of, 179, 192; school
superintendency of, 177, 194, 230.
Davlin, James P'., portrait of, 364.
Day Nursery, establishment and work of the,
359-
Day, Rev. WiUiam J., church history by, 290 ;
portrait of, 291.
Day Street Congregational Church, history of
the, 297; illustration of the, 13.
Dennett, Nathaniel, portrait of, 235.
Derby Desk Company, history of the, 459;
factory of the, 458.
Dickerman, Frank E., portrait of, 414;
Quincy E., portrait of, 187.
Dodge, Albert L., portrait of, 51; Seward,
portrait of, 36.
Dole, Charles A., portrait of, 644.
Donovan, .M. T., portrait of, 519.
Duddy, Robert, portrait of, 120.
Dunklee, Daniel D., portrait of, 56.
Durell, Rev. George W., portraits of, 191,
315; Julius .\., portrait of, 522; Dr. Thomas
JI., portrait of, 335.
Durgin, Asa, portrait of, 20.
Eames, Byron, portrait of, 524.

Early churches and schools in Somerville,
33; grants, 17, 18; highways, 29, 30; in
dustries, 29, 77.
East Somerville Baptist Church, history of the,
282; illustration of, 281.
Eberle, Philip, portrait of, 447.
Edgerly, John S., efforts by, to estabUsh a
public library, 258; portrait of, 192.
Educational Interests, paper on, 226.
Electric fire alarm system, establishment of
an, 149; street fighting, introduction of,
154.
Elliot, Charles D., paper by, on Somerville's
history, 17, 142; portrait of, 16; Mary E.,
paper by, on Willard C. Kinsley Relief
Corps, 365 ; portrait of, 366.
Elliott, Russell C, portrait of, 527.
Elm Council, Royal Arcanum, 406.
Elston, Abraham A., residence of, 528.
Emerson, John S., portrait of, 216a.
Emmanuel (Episcopal) Church, history of
the, 310; illustration of, 312.
Enghsh High School, illustration of the,
219.
Erminie (Rebekah) Lodge, history of, 401.
Evangelical Church Association, 330.
Exchange of prisoners, 61.
Farrell, Michael F., portrait of, 256.
Fire department, history of the, 85, 94, 121,
162, 269, 280.
Fireman's Relief Association, 371.
First Baptist Church, history of the, 102, 285 ;
illustration of, 284; Congregational (Uni
tarian) Church, history of the, 102, 299;
illustrations of, 300, 302; Mayor and Board
of Aldermen, portraits of, 1 28; Methodist
Episcopal Church, history of the, 317; il
lustration of the, 320; Orthodox Congrega
tional Church, history of the, 303; illustra
tion of the, 304 ; Universalist Church, his
tory of the, 324; illustration of the, 326.
Fitch, Nathan A., portrait of, 48.
Fitz, N. Everett, portrait of, 103.
Flag of the United Colonies, new, first un
furled on Prospect HUl, 69.
Flewelling, Dr. Douglas G., portrait of, 531.
Flint street Methodist Church, illustration of
the, 330.
Follett, Dr. A. Ward, portrait of, 532.
Foote, Edward, portrait of, 244.
Forster, Charles, portrait of, 192.
Fortifications around Boston in 1775, plan of,
15; erected in Somerville, 54, 57, 61, 66.
Frazar, Douglas, portrait of, 148; Mrs. Mae
D., paper tiy, on Daughters of Maine Club,
416; portrait of, 417.
Freeman, Benjamin F., portrait of, 640.
Fresh Pond Ice Company, business of the,
455; section of sherls of the, 456.
Friendly Helpers of the Poor, history of the,
438-
Fuller, Frederick C, portrait of, 535; .Stephen
W., portrait of, 537; residence of, 538.

668

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

Fulton, Rev. Justin D., church history by,
285; portrait of, 283.
Furber, WiUiam H., administration of as
mayor, 149; portrait of, 147.
Galpin, Mrs. Barbara, paper by, on the Hep
torean Club, 420; portrait of, 421.
Gas, introduction of in SomerviUe, 121.
Giles, Joseph J., portrait of, 542.
Gilman, Charles E., long term of service of,
170; portrait of, 44.
Giroux, Aime E., residence of, 541.
Glines, Edward, portrait of, 545 ; residence
of, 546; Jacob r., portrait of, 191.
Gookin, Abijah B., portrait of, 115.
Gordon, Emma J., portrait of, 346.
Gould, Aaron H., residence of, 548-
Gow, Rev. John R., church history by, 289.
Gray, Rev. Andrew, church history by, 314;
portrait of, 316.
Greene, General, headquarters of, illustrated,
Grimmons, Charles A., residence of, 549.
Gross, Jaazaniah, portrait of, 550.
Guild, Chester, portrait of, 44.
Gunpowder, scarcity of among the American
troops, 66; seizure of by the British, 45, 46.
Hadley, George W., portrait of, 556; S.
Henry, portrait of, 204; Emma Prichard,
portrait of, 552.
Haigh, John, portrait of, 554.
Haley, Mary A., paper by, on charitable soci
eties, 433; portrait of, 434.
Hall, Horace E., residence of, 559; John G.,
portrait of, 661 ; W. Franklin, portrait of,
243-
Hanscom, Dr. Sanford, portrait of, 195.
Harmony CouncU, Home Circle, 444.
Plartshorn, Dr. Edward, portrait of, 558;
Frank S., portrait of, 560.
Hathaway, H. F., portrait of, 216a.
Haven, Mrs. Clara P., portrait of, 418.
Hayden, J. O., paper by, on Somerville
banks, 445 ; portrait of, 474.
Hayes, John S., paper by, on the public li
brary, 258, 265; portrait of, 259.
Headquarters of General Greene, 65; of
General Lee, 61.
Hemenway, Dr. H. P., portrait of, 663.
Henderson, Franklin, portrait of, 79.
Heptorean Club, history of the, 420.
Herbert, John, portrait of, 374.
Hessian prisoners quartered in Somerville,
71-
Higgins, Solomon S., portrait of, 565.
Highland Congregational Church, history of
the, 305 ; illustration of the, 307.
Highlands station, Boston & Maine R. R.,
464.
High schools, history of the, 161, 218, 222;
iUustrations of the, 219.
High water service introduced, 154, 245.
Highways opened and improved, 29, 30, 78,
85, 89, 118, 149, 161.

HiU, Col. Herbert E., portrait of, 566; Wil
liam P., portrait of, 196.
HiUside Club, history of the, 425.
Hodgkins, Frank E., portrait of, 376; Wil
liam H., administration of as mayor, 158;
portrait of, 152.
Hog Island, battle of, 58, 59.
Holland, Silas Harvey, portrait of, 448.
Holt, Samuel W., portrait of 28.
Home Circle, Harmony Council, 444; Somer
ville Council, 444; Washington Council,
443-
Hopkins, James R., portrait of, 268.
Hospital, history of the, 157, 333; illustration
of the, 331.
Howes, F. M., portrait of, 60.
Hubbard, Orrin C, portrait of, 380.
Hughes, Albert E., portrait of, 358.
Lluntley, L. Herbert, portrait of, 156.
Hurn, Mrs. Florence, paper by, 401 ; portrait
of, 402.
Industries of Somerville, history of the, 29,
77. 93. 94. 452.
Ireland, George W., portrait of, 124.
Ivaloo (Rebekah) Lodge, history of, 394.
Jaques, Col. Samuel, as owner of Ten HiUs
Farm, 41, 77.
John Abbot Lodge, F. A. & A. M., 378.
Jones, Melville D., portrait of, 155; William
P., portrait of, 476.
Journal Buflding, iUustration of the, 473.
Kaan, Frank W., portrail of, 381.
Kelley, John, portrait of, 573.
Kellogg, Dr. I'rederick L., portrait of, 574.
Kennard, John F., portrait of, 399.
Keyes, Amos, portrait of, 35; Emma S.,
paper by, on the Associated Charities, 351.
Kimball, Fred M., portrait of, 104; George
A., portrait of, 240.
Kinsley, Willard C, record of, 361 ; Post,
G. A. R., history of the, 36 1; Relief Corps,
history of the, 365.
Knapp, Oren S., portrait of, 191.
Knights of Honor, Mt. Benedict Lodge,
404.
Lacount, Eugene D., portrait of, 96.
Lamont, Andrew A., portrait of, 391.
Landmarks, old, described, 141, 142.
Lapham, F. DeWitt, portrait of, 579.
Last board of selectmen, portraits of, 127.
Lawrence, Bernard W., portrait of, 275; res
idence of, 276.
Leavitt, Rev. Horace H., church history by,
294; portrait of, 295.
Lee, Gen. Charles, headquarters of, 61.
Lexington, battle of, 50, 51.
Library, pubhc, growth of the, 153, 261, 265;
history of the, 149, 153, 258, 265; illustra
tion of the, 260; officers of the, 265.
Lincoln, Charles S., portraits of, 192, 263.
Little Sisters of the Poor, history of, 438.
Locke, Marshall IT., portrait of, 31.
Lockhart, Charles H., residence of, 580.

SOMERVILLE, P.4ST A.XD PRESENT.

669

Lombard, Frank G., portrait of, 248; Henry
F., portrait of. 99.
Longfellow Lodge, Odd Ladies, 403.
Loring, George F., residence of, 583.
Lovejoy, Benjamin P., portrait of, 585; res
idence of, 586.
Lowell, C. W., residence of, 587; Howard,
portrait of, 588; Joseph (^., portrait of,
59°-
Lowe, Mrs. Martha P., portrait of, 439; re-
rainiscenes of Somerville by, 439; Rev.
Charles, portrait of, 440.
Loyal Orange Institution, 445.
Luce, Robert, paper by, on Sons of Maine
Club, 415; portrait of, 413.
Macomber, George A., residence of, 592.
MacQueen, Rev. Peter, church history by,
297; portrait of, 298.
Magoun, John C, portrait of, 44.
Mann, Alfred E., portrait of, 594; Jairus, por
trait of, 1 48.
Map of Somervflle as it was in 1830, 72.
Martyr roll, the, in the civil war, 117.
^layor, powers and duties of the, 169.
McLean Asylum, establishment of the, 81.
Meleney, Clarence E., portrait of, 148; su
perintendency of schools of, 194, 233.
Memorial tablets, erection of, 141, 142, 157.
Mentzer, Walter C, portrait of, 135; resi
dence of, 136.
Mercer, WiUiam L., residence of, 595.
Merrill, Dr. Arthur E., portrait of, 68; Frank
E., history of the water-works by, 237;
portrait of, 236.
Methodist Episcopal Church, First, history of
the, 317; illustration of the, 320; Park
Ave., history of the, 318; iUustration of
the, 321.
Metropolitan water system to be established,
249.
Middlesex bleachery, history of the, 78, 94.
Middlesex Canal, history of the, 78.
Middlesex street railway, history of the, 471.
Military prowess of the pioneers, 33.
-Mfller's river, descrii^tion of in early times,
21; nuisance of, 136, 146; pollution of,
134-
Mink, Louis, residence of, 596.
Moore, Henry M., portrait of, 63; Howard
D., portrail of, 163.
.Morse, Enoch R., portrait of, 192.
Moulton, Rev. Edwin P., church history by,
286; portrait of, 287.
Mount Benedict Lodge, K. H., 404.
Mount Horeb Lodge, L. O. I., 444.
Mystic Lake, description of, 238.
Mystic River in early times, 21.
X'athan Tufts Park, history of, 137.
X'ew Day Street Congregational Church, il
lustration of, 13.
X'ew residences on Highland .\ venue, 564;
on Westwood Road, 482, 483.
Newton, Dr. Frank L., portrait of, 345.

Xichols, G. Leslie, portrait of, 100.
Nickerson, Alvano T., portrait of, 27; John
F., portrait of, 23.
Xiles, Louville X ., residence of, 664.
Noddle's Island, battle of, 58, 59.
Norcross, J. Leland, portrait of, 601.
Xorth Packing and Provision Co., 452, 454.
X'ourse, Mrs. J. C, portrait of, 602.
X'oyes, Frank A., portrait of, 392; Rev.
Charles, church history by, 306.
Oasis Lodge, I. ( >.0. F., history of, 390.
O'Brien, Rev. James J., church history by, 310.
Odd Fellows' Building, illuslration of, 386.
Old landmarks, desciiption of, 141, 142;
powder-house, history of the, 41, 42, 157,
158; illustration of the, 43.
Orient Council Royal and Select Masters, 378.
Origin and early settlement of Somerville,
17. i8-
Orthodox Congregational Church, I irst, his
tory of the, 303 ; Uluslration of the, 304.
Osgood, Dr. H. D., residence of, 112.
Parker, Frederick W., portrait of, 606.
Park Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church,
history of the, 318; illustration of the, 321.
Park, Elbridge G., portrait of, 604.
Parkhurst, ]Melville C, portrait of, 255.
Parks and boulevards, 122, 134, 137, 157.
Parks, C. E., paper by, on Central Club, 415.
Parsons, Capt. Horace M., portrait of, 411.
Paul Revere Lodge, I. O. O. F., history of,
390. 393-
Paul Revere's ride, 49, 50.
Peasley, Dr. Emma J., paper by, 347; por
trait of, 348.
Perkins, George W., portrait of, 212.
Perkins Street Baptist Church, history of,
102, 289; iUustration of, 330.
Perry, Albion A., administration of as mayor,
165; porlrait of, 143; Oliver H., portrait
of, 450.
Phillips, Dr. Eugenie M., portrait of, 350;
Franklin F., portrait of. 609.
Pierson, Rev. William H., portrait of, 301.
Pioneer settlers of Somerville, 18, 22, 26.
Pillsbury, Luther B., portrait of, 232.
Pitman, Henry W., history of Somerville
Light Infantry by, 409; portrait of, 408.
Plan of fortifications around Boston in 1 775,
15; in Somerville, 71.
Police Court, history of the, 256.
Police department, history of the, 253, 257;
signal system, introduction of the, 154;
station, illustration of the, 257.
Poole, George S., residence of, 220.
Poor, Franklin X'., portrait of, 32.
Pope, Charles G., administration of as mayor,
154 : portrait of, 191.
Post 139, G. A. R., history of, 361.
Potterton, Rev. T. E., church history by, 327.
Powder house, old, history of the, 41, 157;
illustration of the, 43.
Powers, Rev. Levi M., church history by, 324.

670

SOMERVILLE, PAST AND PRESENT.

Pratt, Josiah N., portrait of, 160.
Preston, Fred, porlrait of, 431.
Prichard, John P., porlrait of, 612.
Proctor, George O., portrait of, 228.
Prospect Plill Congregational Church, history
of, 306; illustration of, 330.
Prospect Hill Station, 467.
Public Library. .See Library.
Railroad facilities of Somerville, 133, 465,
471.
Railroads, first through Somerville, 78. 79.
Railroads and street railways, history of, 78,
90, 125, 130, 133, 393,465,471.
Ralph, Airs. Harriet A., paper by, 393 ; por
trait of, 395; William H., portrait of, 387.
Ramona (l^ebekah) Lodge, history of,
397-
Randall Memorial Free Will Baptist Church,
history of, 2S6; illustration of, 288.
Raymond, P'rancis PL, portrait of, 211; Mar
cus M., portrait of, 171.
Rebellion, .Somerville's record in the, 105,
III, 114,361, 365.
Reed, Nathan H., residence of, 353.
Reminiscences of Somerville, by Martha P.
Lowe, 339.
Reservoir for water, description of the, 241.
Residences on Highland Ave., new, 564; on
Westwood Road, new, 481, 482, 483.
Revere, Paul, ride of, through SomerviUe, 49,
50-
Revolution, beginning of the, 45.
Rich, Capt. Lyman B., residence of, 615;
Wilfred B., portrait of, 616.
Robinson, Enoch, residence of the late, 39.
Rowell, Cromwell G., portrait of, 24.
Russ, George H. portrait of, 388.
Russell, Irving L., portrail of, 132.
Rymes, Christopher E., porlrait of, 264.
Samaritan Society, history of the, 355.
.Sanborn, Alexander A., portrait of, I08;
Caleb L., portrait of, 64; Charles B., resi
dence of. III; Daniel W., portrait of, 95;
David A., portrait of, 271 ; Dr. Edwin A.,
portrait of, 87; Frank S., portrait of, 622;
Helen J., paper by, on the Hillside Club,
425; portrait of, 424; James .S., portrait of,
369; residence of, 370; WiUiam A., por
trait of, 461.
Sargent, Aaron, portrait of, 148.
Sawyer, Charles W., portrait of, 267.
School Boards, prominent men on, 230.
School exhibits, 210; statistics, 205, 213, 214,
221; superintendents, 177, 194, 202, 218.
Schools, history of the, 33, 85, 98, lOI, 154,
177, 189, 229; illuslrations of, 207, 208,
215, 216, 219.
.Selectmen, last board of, portraits of, 127.
.Semi-centennial anniversary, celebration of
the, 158.
Sewers, history of the, 121, 122, 165.
Shattuck, Frederick W., portrait of, 200.
Siege of Boston, 57, 58, 63, 69.

Simonds, Edwin N., portrait of, 432.
Sinking fund, application of the, 154.
Smith, Dr. Frederick G., porlrait of, 55.
Soley Lodge, F. A. & A. M., history of, 383.
Somerville, as it was in 1830, map of, 72;
banks of, 446, 451; Chapter, R. A. M.,
history of, 377; Churches and schools,
early, 33, 85; " Citizen," buflding, iflustra-
tration of, 477; "Citizen," history of the,
479; Co-operative bank, history of the,
45 1; Council, Home Circle, 444; Council,
Royal Arcanum, 406; Encamp. LO. O. P'.,
385; Guard in the Rebellion, I [3; High
lands Station, illustration of, 464 ; Hos
pital, history of the, 331, 341 ; illustration
of the, 331 ; industries of, 29, 77, 78, 452;
" Journal " history of the, 475 ; " Journal "
building, illustration of the, 473; Light
Infantry, history of the, 97, no, 409, 412;
Literary Association, history of the, 436;
Lodge, A. O. U. W., history of, 404; Na
tional bank, history of the, 445 ; reminis
cences of, 339; separation of, from Charles
town, 85 ; Savings bank, history of the,
445-
Sons of Maine Club, history of the, 415.
Souther, Ezra D., portrait of, 131.
Southworth, Amasa E., portrait of, 384; Gor
don A., portrait of, 180; superintendency
of schools of, 202, 233.
Sparrow, Edmund S., portrait of, 231.
Sprague c& Hathaway Co., history of the, 455.
Squire, John P., portrait of, 626.
St. Ann's Catholic Church, history of, 309;
St. Catherine's Catholic Church, history of,
310; St. James Episcopal Church, history
of, 317; St. Thomas' Episcopal Church,
history of, 314; illustration of, 330; St.
Vincent de Paul Society, history of the,
437-
.Starbird, George M., portrait of, 628.
Statistics of travel on the B. & M. R. R. sys
tem, 468; on the West End Street Rail
way system, 471.
Stockwell, P'red F., residence of, 630.
Stodder, Frederick M., portrait of, 116.
Story, Isaac, portrait of, 251.
Sturtevant, George F., portrait of, 107; Lind
ley J., portrait of, 80; Richard H., resi
dence of, 272.
Suffrage League, history of the, 436.
Tank Cars, N. E. Oil Co., illustration of, 463.
Tarbox, F. O. J., portrait of, 174.
Taylor, Charles H., portrait of, 140.
Tead, Rev. Edward S., Church history by,
306.
Teele, Frank A., portrait of, 92; Samuel,
portrait of, 633.
Ten Hills Farm, description and owners of,
21, 22, 26, 37, 38, 41, 77.
Thorpe, Herbert, portrait of, 634.
Troops furnished by SomervUle in the Civil
War, 105, 106, 1 10, 409, 410.

SO.MERVILLE, P.4.ST AND PRESE.XT .

671

Tufts College, history of, 138, 141; iUustra
tion of, 139.
Tufts, Francis, portrait of, 47; House, head
quarters of Gen. Lee, illustration of, 61;
Nathan, heirs of, donation of land to the
city by, 157; Park, establishment of the,
157, 158.
L'nion Glass Works, history of the, 94, 457;
Square Baptist Church, history of the,
290; illustration, of the, 330; Presbyterian
Church, history of, 324; illustration of,
325-
Unitarian, First Congregational Church, his
tory of the, 299; illustrations of the, 300,
302.
Universalist Church," First, history of ihe,
324; illustration of the, 326: Third, history
of the, 327; Winter Hill, history of the,
328; illustration of the, 329.
Ursuline Convent, destruction of the, 81, 82.
\'acations and holidays, 193, 194.
View on Broadway, Frontispiece.
^'incent, George I., history of the city govern
ment by, 145, 173; portrait of, 144.
Wade, Rufus i^., portrait of, 638.
Wadleigh, William Y., residence of, 75.
Wadsworth, George M., portrait of, 2 1 6a.
Ware, Frank A., portrait of, 88.
Water Supply of Somerville, history of the,
121, 153. 154, 237, 249.
Waters, Elizabeth A., paper by, on the Sa
maritan Society, 355; portrait of, 357.
Webcowit Club, history of the, 428.
Weld, WiUiam E., porlrait of, 59.
Wellington, J. Frank, portrait of, 266.
Wemyss, George D., portrait of, 239.
WendeU, Mina J., portrait of, 203.
\Ventworlh, Thomas S., portrait of, 183.
West End Street Railway, history of the,
133,471, 472; electric car, illustration of
an, 469; car-house, 470.
West, Mrs. Anna D., portrait of, 422.

West Somerville, Baptist Church, Ulustration
of the, 330; Co-operative bank, history of
the, 451.
Westw-ood Road, history of, 480; residences
on, 482, 483.
While, Dr. Emory L., portrait of, 354; Dr.
Horace C, history of the hospital by, 333;
portrait of, 332.
Whiting, Dr. G. W .W., portrait of, 343 ; resi
dence of, 344.
Whitcomb, Charles T. C, porlrait of, 224;
Irvine .\., residence of, 426.
Wild, B. Frank, portrait of, 651.
Wiley, Isaiah H., portrait of, 647.
Wilkins, G. FrankUn, portrait of, 648.
Willard C. Kinsley Post, G. .-V. R., history of,
361 ; Relief Corps, history of, 365.
\Villey, Clarence H., portrait of, 652.
WiUiams, Charles, Jr., portrait of, 67.
Willis, Dr. Reuben, portrait of, 336.
Wilson, Francis M., porlrait of, 654.
Winship, Rev. Albert E., paper by, on Ed
ucational Interests, 226; portrait of, 227.
Winter Hill Baptist Church, history of the,
290; illustration of the, 292.
Winter Hifl, Club, history of the, 433; Con
gregational Church, history of, 306; illus
tration of, 308; Encampment, I. O. O. F.,
history 01,385; Station, 466; Universalist
Church, history of, 328; ilUustration of,
329-
Winthrop, Governor, domiciled on Ten Hills
Farm, 26, 37, 38.
Woman's Christian Temperance Union, 371.
Woodberry, Wifliam H., portrait of, 382.
Woodcock, Shephard S., portrait of, 91.
Woods, Edward F., portrait of, 656.
Wright, Henry E., residence of, 40; Robert
S., residence of, 168.
Wyman, Charles B., residence of, 655.
Yard and Sheds of F'resh Pond Ice Co., 459.
Young Men's Christian Association, 372.

YALE UNIVERSITY

a39002 00ii093986b

wa^li).>i>i-wi

mm^m^m-

y-'immiA^^i0i^