r":S2**«

WORCESTER NORTH-HALF (HOLDEN) MEETING-HOUSE — 1737.

" 50 feet long ; 40 wide ; and 22 between the joynts." See page 28.
" That noted House." See page 150,

HISTORY OF HOLDEN,

MASSACHUSETTS,

1667—1841.

BY SAMUEL C. DAMON.

1841.

^7SH

WALLACE AND EIPLET — PEINTERS,
WORCESTER, MASS.

TO
THE CITIZEWS OF HOLDEJV,
THIS VOLUME
CONTAINING A
BISTORir
OF THE TOWN
PRINCIPALLY WRITTEN WITH AN EYE
UPON THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS,
IS RESPECTFULLY INSCRIBED BY
THE AUTHOR.

' When at the first I took my pen in hand,
Thus for to write, I did not understand
That I at all should make a little book
In such a mode." — John Bunya'^.

INDEX

Act Incorporating Holden, 29, 69, 70.
" " VVoroesler, 24.
Adams, Samuel, 42, 59
Admiration for Ancestors, 35.
AiTairs, Military, 136.
Bardwell, Rev. Horatio, 102, 106,
115.
Chenery, Doct. Isaac, 60, 133.
" Thaddeus, 133.
Church, Cong. 33, 71, 72, 100—107
" Baptist, 108—114.
Davis, Rev. Joseph, 32, 38, 40, 106.
" Gov. John, 35.
" Isaac, Esq. 14, 15.
Deacons, Cong. chh. 107.
Delegates Prov. Cong. 99.
Earthquake in Holden, 39, 40.
Effects of Rev. War, 52, 53.
Emigration, 143.
Faith, Articles, Cong. chh. 103.
" " Bap. chh. 110.
Gospel, Its support, 32.
Gookin, Daniel, 20 23, 64, 66.
Halves, Wor. N. and S. 20
Hancock, Gov. 3^.
Haven, S. F. Esq. 10—13.
" Rev. Joseph, 59.
Indians, 21, 22.
Lafayette, 48, 147.
Land French, 52, 53.

Andrews, Rev. Elisha, 108, 113.
Anniversary, Cenleniul, 4 — 16.
Association, IVIissionary, 115.
Avery, Rev. Joseph, 40,50, 55, 57,
58, 59, 106.
Belnap, Rev. A. 114.
Bigelow, John, 31.
Coleman, Rev. Dr. 30.
Covenant of Chh. 101, 104.
" Town, 49.
Clerks, Town, 93.
Deed, Indian 1st, 63, 64.
" " 2d, 65, 65.
" Hon. John Hancock's, 56.
Dodd, John, Esq. 129.
Donations to Rev. Mr. Avery, 50, 61.
Estabrook, Col. James, 15, 16.
Everett, Gov. 36.
" Rev. Sam'l. 114.
Factories, 145, 146, 147.
Graduates, College, 130.
Grenadiers, 137, 138.
Henchman, Daniel, 37.
Hills, 127.
Holden, Samuel Esq. 30 31.
Houses, Meeting, 28, 55, 113, 150.
Justices of Peace, 129.
Lime Lot, 26, 26.
Lincoln, William Esq. 16, 23 76.

VUl

INDEX.

Man, Blind, 118.
Manufactures, 145, 146, 147.
Marshall, Rev. Thomas, 112, 113.
Masters, Post, 133.
Masonry, 135,
Organization, Town, 19.
Cong. 32, 71.
Paine, Rev. Wm. P. 13, 107.
Papers, old, 150,151.
Pastors, Cong. chh. 106, 107.
'¦ Bap, " 113,114.
Perry, John, lOa
Rebellion, Shays 53, 54, 55, 81—91.
Rice Jonas, 25.
Representatives, 100.
Sampson, Deborah, 49.
Selectmen, 93—96.
Schools, 139, 140, 141.
Settlement, First, 29.
Sermon, Rev. Mr. Davis's, 33, 39.
Temperance societies, 148, 149.
Thieves, Society for Detecting,J124,
125.
Valuations, 144.
War, Rev. 40—52.
" French and Indian, 33, 34, 36,
37.
Waters, Rev. George, 114.

Meeting, First Town, 19.
Mellen, Rev. John, 39.
Millenium, 119.
Missionaries, 131, 132.
Music, chh. 56, 152, 153, 153.
Organization Bap chh. 109.
Otis, James, 42, 51.
Physicians, 133, 134.
Pollard, Rev. A. 114.
Population, 142, 143.
Prices Established, 50.
Protest, 85, 91.
Report to Gen. Court, 20, 21.
Resolutions, Revolutionary, 43 — 4
Rivers, 128.
Shays, Daniel, 54, 76—80.
Soldiers, Revolutionary, 75, 148.
Spring. 118, 119.
Style, Old and New, 29.
Things in General, 148.
Topography, 126.
Treasurers, Town, 98, 99.,
Walker, Rev. John, US, 114.
Washington's Death, 57.
Winthrop, Col. Adam, 27.
Wright, Judah, 6, 116—124.

an

HISTORICAL ADDRESS,
DELIVERED AT
HOLDEN, MASS.,
MAY 4TH, 1841,
THE FIRST CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
OF THE MUNICIPAL ORGANIZATION
OF THE TOWN;
WITH NOTES AND AN APPENDIX,

BY SAMUEL C.DAMON.

WORCESTER:
WALLACE AND RIPLEY, PRINTERS:
1841.

PRELIMINARY ARRANGEMENTS
FOR THE CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY.
The Citizens or Holsek, agreeably to a Notice, assembled at the
Town Hall, 7 o'clock, P. M. , November 30, 1840, to take into considera*
tion the expediency of celebrating the first Centennial Anniversary of the
Town of Holden.
CoL. SAMUEL DAMON was chosen Chairman, and Charles Cmaf-
fiif , Secretary of the meeting. After deliberating upon the subject, a unan
imous vote was passed, to celebrate the First Centennial Anniversary of the
Town. The fallowing gentlemen were appointed a Committee to make the
necessary arrangements for the anniversary exercises : — Samuel Damon,
Charles Chaliin, Paul Davis, William Metcalf, Jonathan Rice, Silas M.
Hubbard, Lemuel Fiske, Silas Flagg, Jason Mann, Samuel Foster, John
Davis, and James Winch.
A vote was then passed to invite Mr. Judah Wright to join this Committee;
December 14, 1840. At 7 o'clock, P. M. the above committee conven
ed, with some of the citizens, when the subject was discussed — whether the
citizens would celebrate January 9, 1841, the centennial anniversary of the
act incorporating the town, or May 4, 1841, being one hundred years since
the municipal organization of the town, by the choice of Town Officers.
The latter day was decided upon by the meeting, as the most convenient
and proper.
The committee of arrangements invited the Rev. William P. Paine to de.^
liver an address suitable for the occasion. He declined to accept the invi
tation in consequence of his arduous duties as a Pastor.
The invitation was then given to Mr. Samuel C. Damon, a native of the
town, and member of Andover Theological Sepainary. Mr. Damon, having
signified his willingness to accept the invitation, the committee of arrange
ments appointed a snb-committeG, — Samuel Damon, Paul Davis, and
Charles Chaffin, to assist Mr. Damon, in searching for information touching
the early history of the Town.
March 30. — 7 o'clock, P. M. the committee met at the Town Hall, to
complete their arrangements, in regard to the coming Anniversary.

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION.
The HtftJDBEDTH ANNIVERSARY of the municipal organiEittion of
Holden, will be celebrated by the citizens of the said town, on Tuesday, the
fourth day of May next.
An Address will be delivered at 11 o'clock, A. M., by MrS. C. Damon.
Citizens of other towns, and especially such as have formerly been in
habitants of Holden, ara invited to be present, and participate in the exer
cises of the occasion.
A Dinner will be provided at the Town Hall, by S. Davis.
By order of the Committee of Arrangements.
Holden, April 28, 1841.

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION AT HOLDEN.

(Extract from tha fCalional Xgis, Worcesttr, May I9.J

The first century since Holden, in Worcester County-
was established as a town, by the election of municipal
officers according to the provisions of the acts of the
Great and General Court of the Province of the Massa
chusetts Bay, was completed on May 4, 1841. The citi
zens, desirous of honoring the memory of the founders
of their community, and of noticing in an appropriate
manner an anniversary so interesting, had made arrange
ments for a public festival on the occasion.
The day was :.3markable in the climate of New Eng
land. Snow had fallen during the preceding week to
unusual depth, and the white drifts and beds remained
along the borders and covered the little hollows of the
fields, and although the sun shone bright, the north-west
wind was chilled with the breath of winter. If we may
trust to the records of former time, an hundred years
ago, May was like a summer month, and an old diary
states, that on the day of the old style then, which cor
responded with the fourth of May now, trees were bud
ding, flowers were springing, and windows were thrown
open to admit the warm sun.*

* On Tnesday, May 4, 1841, the thermometer stood thai at Hospital
Hill, in Worcester : at sanrise, 33 deg. : 2 P. M. 50 deg. : at laoset, 47 deg.
' 1*

6 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
The citizens collected at an early hour to join in the
solemnities and festivities of the anniversary. At 11
o'clock of the forenoon, a procession was formed at the
house of Col. Samuel Damon, under the direction of the
Committee of Arrangements named below :
COMMITTEE OF ARRANGEMENTS.
Samuel Damon, Charles Chaffin, Silas Flagg, Lemuel
Fiske, Paul Davis, John Davis, William Metcalf, Samuel
Poster, Silas M. Hubbard, James Winch, Jason Mann,
Jqnathan Rice, Judah Wright.
The arrangement of the Procession was under the di
rection of the following gentlemen, who officiated as
Marshals. MARSHALS.
Chenery Abbott, Le Baron Putnam, Joab S. Holt,
Charles L. Knowlton, Ethan Davis, Nathan Howe,
William Howe, Sparrow Crosby, James S. Moore.
First went "The Military Band" from the adjoining
town of Paxton, a fine body of musicians, conducted by
Mr. Thomas Ward and Mr. J. B. Allyer, their leaders.
A most interesting feature in the ceremonies of the
day, was the attendance of the ladies of Holden, and of
some of the dames and damsels of other towns, who
marched to the meeting-house.
They were followed by the citizens of Holden, and
their guests.
The church was filled before the solemn exercises of
the occasion commenced, with a large assembly.
After appropriate music by the Paxton band, the fol
lowing Hymn, composed by Mr. Judah Wright, a vener
able citizen of Holden, seventy years of age, suflering
under the infirmity of blindness from infancy, was sung
by a choir of more than an hundred s-ingers, led by Col.
Samuel Stratton.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. i
HYMN— By Judah Wright.
Let OS our grateful voices raise.
To celebrate Jehovah's praise, —
Our fathers trusted in his care.
And we his richest blessings share.
When we a hundred years review.
We see the efforts of a few
Increasing, till a rising Town
Does their judicious labors crown.
Dark forests from the view recede,
And herds and flocks in safety feed.
And plenty crowns a cheerful home.
Where prowling wolves were wont to roam.
The active, hardy, wise, and brave
Have reached their common home — the grave ;
And beauty, once the source of pride.
Has long since mouldered by their side.
The ravages which time hath made.
Teach us that all on earth mnst fade ;
Then let our best affections rise,
To solid joys beyond the skies.
Though nothing here can long endure.
The throne Eternal stands secure.
And there we may repose our trust,
Nor dread the summons, *' dust to dust."
An impressive and eloquent prayer was then oifered
by the Rev. Horatio Bardwell, formerly clergyman of
Holden, during six years a missionary in India, and
now minister of the Gospel at Oxford, in Worcester
County. The address of the Rev. Samuel C. Damon was a
faithful, able, and interesting review of the prominent
events in the history of the town during the last centu
ry. In clear, simple, and persuasive manner, he related
the trials, toils, and hardships of the early planters — ex
plained the causes which induced them to go out from
the ancient colony of Worcester — narrated their exertions
during the wars with the French and Indians, which
disturbed the people of New England — referred to the
spirited resolutions and acts of the citizens in the bright
period of the revolution — counted the soldiers who fought

O HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
the battles of freedom during the long war of indepen
dence, and traced the progress of the town in its march
of prosperity through the hundred years which have rol
led onward since the organization.
Of the high merit's of Mr. Damon's Address, it is un
necessary now to speak : a copy was requested for the
press by the unanimous voice of all who listened to the
words of the speaker. The public will be enabled to es
timate, when it shall read, the excellence of the manner
in which materials collected with extraordinary diligence
from the archives of the State, the records of the town,
the papers of the past, and from all other sources of in
formation, were arranged, and the accuracy and fidelity of
the narrative.
After the Address, the glorious Anthem of Haydn, " O J
Praise ye the Lord" — was sung by the choir, with the
accompaniment of the band.
The hymn which follows, beautiful in the expression
of the thoughts which droud on such an anniversary, and
having graceful words and gentle flowing rhyme, was
then sung by the many voices of the musicians. We
regret that we are unable to learn the name of the author
of such good verse. HYMN— By J. H. B.
One hundred years have roli'd away.
Unrealized, unseen, tinfelt,
Since first before thine altars here,
O, GoQ ! our holy fathers knelt.
They lie beneath those swelling mound?.
Those ancient graves that once were greeo ;
No granite block, no marble pile
Above their resting-place is seen.
Yet here they live, — the thoughts of God
That in their children's bosoms thrill ;
Each holy prayer, eaeh stirring hope, —
All these are their memorials still.
First in their noble thoughts and plans.
The lova and worship, Lord, of Thee i

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 9
Then, the strong training of their youth,
The love of Man and Liberty.
And when, above our old grey hills.
They heard the battle thunders roll ;
They look'd on those brave men who died,
With a stern sympathy of soul.
And here we meet — remembering those
Who laid these first foundations well.
That, o'er their honored dust, one strain.
Of triumph and of love may swell.
And we, like them, shall pass away.
Our thoughts and wishes, hopes and fears.
Lie buried in our scattered graves,
Within another hundred years,
And now we bend before Thee, here.
Stand on the ground our fathers trod ;
Be Thou our strength, our life, our light.
Our own, as once our fathers' God.
This hymn was read and sung after the ancient fash
ion, which was called ^'deaconing." The venerable Dea
con Rice, having consented to take part in the services
of the church, standing in his place at the communion
table, read line by line. The scene when the whole of
that vast congregation rose and joined with the choir in
the solemn melody after the manner of •' they of an hun
dred years ago," was deeply impressive.
Rev. John Keep of Pelham in New Hampshire, who
married Miss Davis, a daughter of Holden, addressed the
Throne of Grace, in earnest prayer, after this most inte
resting exercise was concluded.
The Anthem " Thy Love will build up Zion," was
next performed by the choir and band.
The benediction, brief, beautiful, and eloquent, was
pronounced by the Rev. William P. Paine, of Holden.
Again the Procession was formed, by the Marshals.
Preceded by the Band, escorting about one hundred and
forty ladies, and one hundred and eighty citizens, the
company were conducted by the same Marshals to the
Town Hall, where tables had been spread, and a plenti-

10 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
ful and elegant repast had been prepared by Mr. Davis.
The blessing of Divine Providence was implored by
the Rev. Mr. Bardwell, and the thanksgiving of the crow
ded company at the feast was returned by the Rev. An
drew Pollard.
Col. Samuel Damon presided at the table, and announ
ced the following toasts :
The Day we Celebrate — Abounding in interesting associations and hal-
owed reflections, and sacred to the memory of those who acted here an
houdred years ago.
The flourishing Town of tohich this was originally a part — She did not
cast us off, nor did we rebel — but " the heart of the Commonwealth" was
too large for the body.
William Lincoln, Esq. of, Worcester, being called on
by the President, responded to this sentiment at some
length, and on the conclusion of his remarks proposed
the following toast :
Holden and Worcester — United in past time within the same territorial
boundaries, may they hereafter be more closely connected by the ties of
friendship. The President gave the following sentiment :
Hon. Samuel Holden and Gov. Hiincock, lencfactors of the Town — To
the munificence of the one we are indebted for a valuable Library, and to
the other for our beautiful^Common.
S. F. Haven, Esq. of Worcester, responded to the call
of the President, nearly as follows :
Mr. President : I feel a somewhat peculiar interest in
the sentiment that has just been repeated, from the fact
that I am connected with an Institution which owes its
origin to the same kind of liberality as is there commem
orated ; and in the absence of a more appropriate response,
I will, with your leave, say a word or two before anoth
er toast is presented.
There are in this county, and its vicinity, several
towns bearing the names of men distinguished in their
day for promoting the literary interests of their country,
and imparting from their wealth the means of providing

HISTORY or HOLDEN. 11
for the moral and intellectual cultivation of generations
that should succeed them. Holden, Harvard, Hopkin-
ton, are prominent among these monuments in honor and
memory of such benefactions.
What more desirable, or more appropriate memorial
could be devised, than communities like these, exhibit
ing in their intelligence, their good habits, their schools
and religious institutions, the fruits of those endowments,
the name and fame of which they perpetuate? What
happier tribute could be paid to the worth of men who
had regard to our well being as well as to that of their
cotemporaies, than is rendered by such occasions and
such meetings as the present 1 They looked forward to
us with paternal solicitude, and, in return, we, this day,
unite in expressing the filial reverence and gratitude with
which we look back to them. I have not the honor, I
believe, to be connected by descent with any of the foun
ders and fathers of this town. The various villages of
our Commonwealth are seldom, however, without some
connecting ties.
I have learned from the interesting discourse, to which
we have just listened, that the late Mr. Avery, your long-
loved and respected pastor, came from my native town,
and that my grandfather preached his ordination sermon,
and I am diposed to fasten upon these facts for want of
better claims to unite in these ceremonies and partake
of this hospitality. But, sir, the present occasion is not
one of merely local interest. The reminiscences of events
that happened in this neighborhood, anecdotes of men
who have lived here, the record of manners and habits,
all constitute a tributary stream to the general current
of our country's history. All history should be, and
American history in particular must be, the history of
the people. Not an account of the proceedings of a

13 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
court, or the operations of any government only, but of
what the people have been doing, in villages, and com
munities, and families. These things lie at the founda
tion of national character and sentiment, and consequent
ly of national events.
How would it be possible, for instance, for us to un
derstand the philosophy of our Revolution, and appre
ciate the spirit that originated and sustained it, without
going into the villages and upon the farms, and into the
dwellings, by the aid of local traditions and histories,
and seeing what manner of men were there — how they
lived, and what they felt, and thought, and did 1 We are
carried by this means behind the scenes, or rather into
the scenes, of private history, and shown what are real
ly the secret springs of public history. Those matters
which possess a natural interest to a particular neigh
borhood, from association with familiar names and places,
should be of interest to every one, who seeks, in the ex -
perience of the past, for that wisd6m which may be de
rived from a knowledge of what those who lived before
us have done or sufiered — wherein they have erred and
in what respects they have judged rightly. These rec
ords present to us pictures of human nature, both of its
virtues and failings, such as we can best understand.
The village disputes, religious quarrels, and political dis-
sentions of past times, are analagous to those to which
our own generation is exposed. They afford examples
of character and conduct of which we can see the be
ginning and the end, and may draw therefrom most use
ful admonitions. We are living over the same lives, with
important variations to be sure, but subject to the same
general laws of action, inasmuch as we possess the same
nature, and are governed by the same passions and mo
tives, which always lead to similar results — similar in

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 13
character and consequences. I believe, sir, the time is
coming wh^n history and biography will be taught in
our common schools, as carefully as grammar and arith
metic — taught as lessons of life — and that ignorance of
the history of one's own town, or even of one's country,
will be deemed as great a deficiency as ignorance of read
ing and writing now are. The historic genealogy of a
village may be made as useful a guide, through the de
vious paths of life, as the chart of a mariner to him who
sails among the quick-sands and breakers of the great
deep ; pointing out the track that others have pursued,
and showing how and where they have advanced in
safety, and how and where they have been lost upon
shoals and rocks, the victims of heedlessness^ or folly, or
headstrong passion.
Not to detain you longer, I will offer as a sentiment—
The Genealogical Tree : A tree of knowledge, both of good and evil.
The fruits thereof we are compelled to taste. May they open our eyes to
a consciousness of oar own capacities for good, and our own responsibilities
for «vil.
The GtriKrnor ef the Commonwealth.^-^ worthy and honored descendant
of the moderator of our first town meeting, which we are celebrating.
The patriotic and pious resolutions of our fore-fathers — Whose first vote
after their municipal organization was " to have the Gospel preached," and
the ne.\t " to have a writing and reading school kept."
The happy and appropriate remarks of Rev, Mr. Paine,
following this sentiment, we are not so fortunate as to
possess. Honor to the memory of our Mothers, who presided over the distaff and
the loom — May thbir refined and beautiful Daugiiters be as much distinguish
ed for iheir industry, energy, and virtue.
After this toast was given, the ladies sent to the chair
the following :
The gallant Sons of our venerable Fathers — The Daughters will acknowl
edge their authority and respect their dignity, while they continue to protect'
and honor them.
Ihe distinguished Historian of Worcester — By whose assiduous labors
among rnusty rolls, the eariy annals of our town have been put in an endur
ing form. 2

14 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
This toast called forth a pleasant and humorous reply
from Mr. Lincoln, the absence of which is explained in
another plaCe.-^[Eb.]
The President gave the following sentiment, and ap'*
pealed to Isaac Davis, Esq. of Worcester, for a reply.
The patriots of ihe Revolution, of whom this Town furnished its full
quota — Let the memory of the departed be cherished, and the living be
crowned with honor.
Col. Davis rose and addresssd the company nearly as
follows :
Mk. President : One hundred and twenty years ago,
there Was seen a man with a plough on his shoulder pas
sing very near the spot where we are now assembled.
This individual pursued his course a few miles west of us,
where he thrust the plough into the virgin soil, cast in
the seed, and reaped the fruit of his labors. That man
was the father of the first minister of Holden, and filled
various offices, of trust in the first municipal elecitiohs. I
refer to Lieut. Simon Davis, whose remains are entomb
ed in yonder church-yard. He was my great-great
grandfather. About twelve years ago, on a "raw and
gusty day" in the month of March, there ^)vas seen a
young man resembling myself, riding with a young lady
whom he had taken for " better and for ifiorse," over
nearly the same ground that the sturdy pioneer of the
forest passed. Her ancestors lay in yonder grave-yard.
These, Mr. President, are some of the relations I bear
to those who have lived in the first century of Holden^
With these connections I do not feel that I am an " alien
and a stanger" here. Never — no, never have I looked
on a New England audience with more intense interest
than on the present occasion. A few days since I was trav
elling in Old England^-looking at her soil, her climate,
her institutions, and the state and condition of her peo
ple, and be assured, Sir, I came home with renewed love
for our own happy homes, our own glorious institutions.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 15
We do not know, nor can we know, how much the masses
there suffer, unless we personally witness their degrada
tion. What we call poverty is there considered a com
fortable condition. To see the citizens of one of the
thrice happy towns of New England assembled for the
purpose of celebrating an anniversary like the present, is
to my mind, a noble spectacle. It leads me to the con
templation of the social, civil, and religious privileges
we are enjoying. Never have I so fully realized the in
estimable value of these privileges. Never shall I again
wonder and be surprised that our fathers left their native
land — crossed the broad Atlantic at an inclement season
of the year, and breasted the dangers incident to this
western wilderness. They came to establish the Institu
tions which we are now enjoying. Without troubling
you with further remarks, Mr. President, allow me to
offer a sentiment.
Our Social, Civil, and Religious Institutions — They cost great toil — great
suffering — much treasure — much blood :— but not half as much as they are
worth. One of the soldiers of the revolution, Mr. Drury, was
present, and replied to this sentiment, with some appro
priate remarks.
Col. James Estabrook of Worcester, a native of Hol
den, offered the following :
The early settlers of Holden — Distinguished for their love of order, peace,
and sobriety — ^piously devoted to the cause of civil and religious liberty.
May we, their descendants, cherish their virtues, and not prove recreant sons
by neglecting to do all in our power to transmit them unimpaired to those
who shall come after us.
Many volunteer sentiments were offered and received
with cordial approbation, and we regret that we have
not been able to procure them, to add to the account of
the pleasant celebration.
At an early hour the assembly separated. No inci
dent occurred to mar the enjoyment of a festival o| deep
and peculiar interest. The arrangements were so judi-

16 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
ciously made,, as to secure best the gratification of thosre
who attended.
Those who participated in this centennial anniversary,
can never join there in any other which shall return with
the course of years. To other generations it may be in^
teresting to know in what manner they of the present
day honored the memory of their ancestors, and this rec
ord is made to perpetuate the recollection of the celebra
tion of the anniversary of the organization of the town
of Holden.
The account of the Centennial Celebration at Holden
was furnished by a gentleman whose interest in, such oc
casions and predilection for historical research is well
known from its practical fruits. It was not until we ex
amined the proof, that we became aware of omissions,
some of which it was then too late to remedy. We re
fer to the remarks of William Lincoln, Esq., in reply to
the sentiment expressive of the relation which the towns
of Holden and Worcester hold to each, other,, and also to
that which has a more personal allusion. It was for
the sake of these remarks that one at least of the guest's
from this town assented on his own part to the request
that notes of their observations should be inserted. As
citizens of Worcester, we could not but desire that an
acknowledgement and declaration of the friendly and
cordial connections still subsisting between the parent
town and its vigorous offspring, with the reflections in
cidentally suggested, might be preserved, in substance
at least, if not in form. We trust that the historian of
Worcester will not suffer the existence of such sentiments
to remain unrecorded, although it may not be possible that
the very language of a most happy extempore speech
should be remembered. We hope to hear from him
next week. — [Ed.

Mr. Samuel C. Damon,
Dear Sir — The subscribers. Committee of Arrangements, were ap-
pi>inted, before the Anniversary Exercises closed, to return the thanks of
the audience to you , for your able address, and request a copy for the press.
Most RepectfuUy, Y'oors, SAMUEL DAMON,
SILAS M. HUBBARD,
WILLIAM METCALF,
SILAS FLAGG,
JAMES WINCH,
PAUL DAVIS,
LEMUEL FISKE,
CHARLES CHAFFIN,
JASON MANN,
JOHN DAVIS,
JONATHAN RICE,
SAMUEL FOSTER,
JUDAH WRIGHT.
Holden, May 4, 1841.

PREFACE.
The Author of the following Address, and compiler of the Notes and .Ap
pendix, desires to connect, with their publication, an acknowledgement of
his obligation to persons who have kindly imparted advice, and furnished
materials of history. To the Committee appointed for that purpose — but
particularly to Charles Chaffin, Esq., a member of that Committee; to Wil
liam Lincoln, Esq., of Worcester; and S. F. Haven, Esq., Librarian of the
American Antiquarian Library; to the Librarian of Cambridge University;
and the Rev. Joseph B. Felt; of Boston, to the Sev.. William P. Paine; and
ths citizens of Holden in general, also to the wife of Aaron White, Esq., of
Boylston, the author and compiler would express gratitude for their kindness
and assistance. Without their aid this publication must have been destitute
of interest and meagre in historical information.
In preparing this address for publication, the author has taken- the liberty
to make a few alterations, In some instances, additions have been made.
Accuracy, however, has- been his constant aim.
Materials have been gathered from, sources as various as can be readily
imagined by persons who have not attempted a similar work. Provincial
and State papers, at Boston, Proprietors' and Town Books, Church and
Society Records, Public Libraries, Newspapers, family histories and tra
ditions, the recollections of the living, and the tombstones of the departed,
have been made tributary to the undertaking.
It is hoped some apology for the errors and imperfections of the work may
be found in the circumstance, that hitherto this path of historical research
has been untravelled. The' author could neither copy the errors or excel-
leicies of his predecessors.. And if this effort shall assist a successor, or
any among his fellow citizens, better to understand;. or render mora com
plete the history of his native to.vyn,. It will be a sufficient and rich reward.

ADDRESS,

This day completes the first century since the Town
of Holden was organized agreeably to the Provincial
Statues of Massachusetts Bay. The records of that
event, which we have assembled to commemorate, have
been carefully preserved upon the. Town-books. They
read as follows: — "At an annual meeting in Holden on
Monday y fourth of May, Anno, 1741, Mr Simon Davis
chose Moderator for s* meeting. Simon Davis, John
Bigelow,, and Cyprian Stevens chose Select-men. Cy
prian Stevens cliose Town-Clerk — Sworn. Jonathan
Lovell chose constable for the East-end — Sworn. James
Smith chose constable for the West-end — Sworn. Sam
uel Clark, Samuel Pierce, and Samuel Heywood, chose
Assessors— Sworn. William Nickels chose Town-TrcEt-
surer — Sworn. Abraham Newton chose Ty thing-man-^
Sworn. James Gray, Jotham Bigelow, and David
Brown chose Fence-viewers. Jotham Bigelow chose
Clerk of the Market — Sworn, James Grey, and Samuel
Bruce chose Hog-reeves — Sworn, Joseph Woolley, and
Abraham Newton chose Field-drtvers^Sworn. Samuel
Hey wood chose Sealer of Leather — Sworn. James Cald
well and John Childs chose Deer-reeves — Sworn. John
Bigelow, and Joseph Hubbard chose Surveyors of high
ways — Sworn. Simon Davis chose Grand-juryman."*
"^Town Records, v.ok.1, p. 2.

20 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
In celebrating the Centennial Anniversay of a, day,
the records ot which have now been read, My Fellow
Citizens — We follow the promptings of principles deep
ly implanted in our natures. It is fit and proper to ex
hibit a becoming and grateful respect for the memory of
that generation of men, — whb, clearing the forests, made
their homes upon the hills, and in, the valleys of our
town. The duty devolving upon me, by accepting the invita
tion from, the Committee of Arrangements, to prepare an
address for tiiis occasion, I shall endeavor to discharge
by narrating the history of Holden, from the period when
authentic records commence, down to the close of the
18th century, concluding with an allusion to a.few promi--
nent events in the present century.
The earliest authentic accounts, on record, which refer
to the tract of land now embraced within the limits of
the township of Holden, are co-eval with the history of
Worcester. That' town originally had its North and
South halves. The General Court of Massachusetts, in
May, 1667, appointed a Committee " to take an exact
viewe" of lands, lying in the vicinity of Quinsigamond
Pond, and being about mid-way between Boston and
Springfield. Daniel Gookin, Edward Johnson, and An
drew Belchar, members of this Committee, made the fol
lowing report, in October, 1668 : —
"We have, according to the Court's Orders bearing date
15th May, 1667, viewed the place liierein mentioned, and
find it to be about twelve miles westward from Marlbo
rough, near the road to Springfield^ and that it contains
a tract of very good chestnut tree land ; a large quanti
ty; but the meadow we find not so much ; because a very
considerable quantity of meadow and upland, about five
thousand acres, is laid out unto particular persons, and

history of holden. 21
confirmed by this Court, * * * * but, all this not
withstanding, we conceive, there may be enough mead
ow for a small plantation, or town, of about thirty fami
lies ; and if those farms be annexed to it, it may su^:)ply
about sixty families. Therefore we conceive it expedi
ent, that the honored Court will be pleased to reserve it
for a town, being conveniently situated, and well watered
with ponds and brooks, and lying near mid-way between
Boston and Springfield, about one day's journey from
either ; and for the settling thereof, we do offer unto the
Court, that which follows — viz : —
That there be a meet proportion of land granted and
laid out for a town, in the best form the place will bear,
about the contents of eight miles square;
That a prudent and able committee be appointed and
empowered to lay it out.
That due care be taken by the committee, that a good
minister of God's word be placed there as soon as may be ;
that such people as may be there planted, may not live
as lambs in a large place."*
This report was approved and accepted by the General
Court. Another committee was appointed to- carry its
recommendations into execution. The history of this
" tract of very good chesnut tree land, containing a good
supply of ponds and brooks, and being about eight miles
square, and laid out in the best form the place will bear"
I shall endeavor to trace through a period of one hundred
and thirty-two years, so far as its history refers to the
original proprietorship, and settlement of Holden.
The persons, who had obtained a grant of this tract of
land from the General Court, did not consider their title
as valid, until by purchase, it had been secured to them
by the Indians-, the original proprietors of the soil. On
* Lincoln's history of Worcester, p. 3.

22 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
the 13th of July, 1674, John alias Horrawannonit, or
Q,uiquonassett, Sagamore of Pakachoge, and Solomon
alias Woonaskochu, Sagamore of Tataessit, together with
the consent of their kindred and people, .conveyed by
deed the abovementioned tract of land to DanielGookin
of Cambridge, Daniel Henchman of Boston, and certain
other persons, for and in consideration of £12 of lawful
money, of New England currency, or in full value there
of in other specie to be paid within three months after
the date of the deed. The Indians received " two coats
and four yards of trading cloth valewed at twenty-six shil
lings," as a pledge that the money should be duly paid.
Messrs. Gookin, Henchman, and others fully discharged
their obligation to the Indians before the three months had
expired, and came into possession of " the broken upland
and woodlands, woods, trees, rivers, brooks, ponds,
swamps, meadows,'mineralls, or any other thing, or things
whatsoever, lying or being within that tract of land, con-
tayning eight miles square or 'the contents thereof, to be
layd out by y° s" persons or their order in time conve
nient."* The district of country, described in the first Indian
deed from which extracts have been made, embraced the
entire townships of Worcester and Holden, before any
portions were set off to form the towns of Auburn, Pax
ton, or West Boylston.f
King Phillip's war commencing A. D. 1675, in connec
tion with other unpropitious events, retarded the rapid

* See Note A.
t " The plantation of Q,uinsigamond, as originally granted, and surveyed,
extended nearly twelve miles from north to south, andsix from east to west.
It was designed to include the sanle quantity of land which would have been
comprehended in a tract eight miles square. As stated in the original plan,
the north and south lines were 1920 rods each ; the east line 3S15 ; the
west 3760." Lincoln, p. 160.

HISTORY tlF HjOLDEN-. 23
settleiiient of this part of the Massachusetts colony.*
This circumstance induced the General Court, at their
session in October 1682, to pass -a vote rendering "forfeit
¦and lost" the grant of this tratt of land, to Gookin and
others, unless ^rigorous exertiohs were speedily adopted
to advance its settlement.! The Grantees were now
urged to take immediate action to preserve their claims.
It was found by estimation that about 480 acres of good
meadow land were contained within the limits of this
grant. An agreement was made, at a meeting of the
Proprietors, April 24, 1682, to divide the whole township
into as many lots as there were acres of meadow land ;
" 200 for Planters ; 80 for public uses or other specific
appropriations, and the remaining 200 to be laid out on
the north extremity forming a division, afterwards known
as North Worcester, and subsequently rendered perma
nent by the incorporation of Holden."J
The dividing line between North and South Worcester
was drawn during the year 1683 or 4. For a period of
more than thirty years subsequent to this division, but
very meagre records have been preserved relating to the
North half of Worcester. " For a time," observes Lin
coln in -his history of Worcester, " we lose sight of the
town and its inhabitants. From 1686 to 1713 no record
is preserved on the proprietary book of any transactions.
Neither history nor tradition informs us of the labors, dan
gers and sufferings of the earlier planters. Gen. Gookin,
the early and faithful friend of the plantation, was cal
led to the rewards of a long life, characterised by fervent
piety, enlarged benevolence, incorruptible integrity, and
the practice of every manly virtlie, in March, 1687."'§>

* Holme's Annals, vol. 1, p. 369.
tLinooln's his. Worcester, p. 30.
t " " " p. 30.
§ " " " p. 33.

24 HISTORY OF HOLDEN,
Capt. Adam WirithTop was appoiiited to the office which
had been so ably filled by the untiring exertions of the
much lamented Gookin. The Winthrop family of Boston
owned extensive tracts of land in North and South Wor
cester. I can find no records, which lead me to conclude, that
any settlements were made in Worcester North half, pre
viously to 1722. The solitude of the wilderness had re
mained unbroken, unless the occasional report 'of an
huntsman's gun, or the shrill whoop of the Indian, echoing
among the -hills, aroused the timid deer, or hungry wolf.
Tradition reports that numbers of each species continu
ed in this vicinity, long after the first settlers had made
their homes in the wilderness. History as well as tradi
tion, describes an Indian path leading from Lancaster to
Hadley, which passed through the north part of this
town, near the farm now owned by Samuel W. Hubbard.
Traces of this path, I have been told are still to be seen.
One century had now elapsed, since the Pilgrims dis
embarked from the May Flower, upon the shores of New
England. St had been a century of labors, of hardships,
perils and wars, to the first settlers of the country. Du
ring this period, the colonies were continually increasing
in population and importance. Every year witnessed
new settlements in the wilderness. Hardy adventurers
were carrying to the westward the out-posts of civiliza
tion. The town of Worcester was incorporated Jiine 14th,
1722.* In the month of October following, the proprie
tors of "common and undivided lands" in the town of
Worcester, Voted — " that a committee of five persons be
chosen, to provide a surveyor, and that he proceed forth
with to measure the meadow lands in Worcester North
'Lincoln's his. Worcester, p. 50.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 25
half."* Although this vote was not then carried into
execution, in consequence of certain troubles in South
Worcester, yet I deem it worthy of special notice, be ¦
cause from this date — -the last Wednesday of October,
1722, authentic records of this township have been care
fully preserved.
An incident occurred about this period — Spring of
1723, which led, as I suppose, to the forming of the first
settlement in this town. Mr. Jonas Rice, a citizen of
South Worcester, had discovered limestone upon the
farm, now known by the name of the Bullard Farm.
At a meeting of the proprietors, in March, 1723, a vote
was passed granting " encouragement to the first finder
of limestones and undertaker of the burning lime for the
supplying the toAvn." A committee was appointed to
agree with Mr. Rice to burn lime upon the following
conditions, viz :
1. " The undertaker, Mr. Rice, to have a patent for
50 acres of land to be allotted him, for seVen years ; and
that he have liberty to cut wood on any common land of
the proprietors, and that every body else be forbid dig
ging limestones, or cutting wood, until the end of said
term." 2. " That the town be allowed 2d. per bushel for all
merchantable lime."
3. " That all the inhabitants, that may have occasion,
for their own use in building to be used in town, shall
give 12c?. per bushel for it, and no more."
4&5. * * #* * * * *
6. " That the undertaker be obliged to go upon the
business with all speed, and also to supply the inhabi
tants with lime for their own use when they want it, as
soon as may be with any conveniency and that they be
* Proprietors' Books, Vol. 1 : p. 1.
3

26 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
preferred before any other persons belonging to other
towns."* The lot of land, known upon the early records of the
town, as the Lime Lot, was sold, in the year 1759, to
Mr. Anthony Clark.f The avails fiirm a part of the
present school fund of the town. A settlement was
made in the immediate neighborhooti of the lime lot,
which is supposed to be the first settlement in Holden.
The remains of lime kilns still appear about 60 rods south
of Timothy Parker's house. That part of the town
subsequently set off to form West Boylston, was very
early settled by the Lovells.
The records of the proprietors of the common and un*
divided lands in North and South Worcester, indicate
that vigorous exertions were made on their part to pro
mote the rapid settlement of this portion of the township,
immediately subsequent to the incorporation of Worcester.
They caused two surveys to be made, one in the autumn
of 1723, and the other in the spring of 1724. The land
having been thus surveyed, was divided into lots contain
ing, respectively, 60 a. and 100 a. called, first and sec
ond divisions. Those owning land in South Worcester
Avere entitled to tracts of land in North Worcester, agree
ably to the following rules, viz : A land-holder of 40
acres in the South part was entitled to 60 acres of the
first division, arid lOO acres of the second division, " and
so praporfionable to bigger or lesser lotts" 1 would re
mark that persons were left to the choice of particular
tracts, having first Cast lots for priority of choice. The
individual dra#ing No. 1 was allowed to pitch first iri
that division which contained 60 a. lots, but last ih
the other division which contained 100 a. lots. Thfe
* Proprietors' fiooks. Vol. 1 : p. 3.
t Town Records, Vol. 1 : p. 120.

history of HOLDEN. 27
above tracts of land were all to be laid out in squares,
or " long squares."*
No proprietor was more active and efficient, in pro
moting the welfare of North Worcester, at this early
period, than Col. Adam Winthirop of Boston. As a mark
of grateful respect to this gentleman for his good servi
ces, the proprietors passed the following vote : — " CoL
Adam Winthrop for his good services done for the town
of Worcester shall have the first pitch in the North half
part of Worcester."! For years subsequent to this event,
the interests of North Worcester profitted by his wise
counsels and judicious plans. He emphatically may be
called a FATHER to the town.
Near 4000 acres of land, in North Worcester, was
transferred from company stock to private individuals.
Many of the proprietors of lands living in Boston and
vicinity, their meetings were frequently held in that city.
To facilitate settlements and raise the value of landed
property, the proprietors appointed a committee to lay
out four public roads, 6 rods wide, from the centre of
North Worcester, in such ways as would be most ser
viceable to the said half part and the towns adjoining.^
The centre of the township was then supposed to be
about 50 or 60 rods north from the spot occupied by the
house in which we are now assembled. These public
roads were laid out previously to any portion of the
township becoming the private property of individuals.
From the consultation of ancient records, or inquiries
among the most aged inhabitants, I have not been able
to decide upon the precise years when settlements Avere
made in different parts of the town. The number of in
habitants as -arly as 1733 Avas sufficient in their opinion

* Proprietors' Books, Vol. 1 . p. 5, 6. t Ibid. Vol. 1 : p. 7. t Ibid,
Vol. I : p. 6.

28 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
to render desirable the establi^shment of puMic worship.
In November of that year, James Thompson, who lived
beyond the Warner Farm, associated with sixteen other
persons, petitioned the proprietors, praying that the land
might be taxed to defray the expenses which would
arise from building a meeting house and supporting a
minister.* This atternpt was not successful, but Thomp
son and his felloAV townsmen did not relax their efforts.
The right of petition, that most reasonable of all rights,
they continued to exercise, until their desires were fully
gratified, when they obtained, in the year 1736, a vote
from the proprietors to. erect a house for public worship :
"50 feet long; 40 wide ; and 22 between the _/oyra^jy."f
At the same meeting of the proprietors, Dec, 1736, it
was also Voted that the meeting house should be erected
" about 60 rods south Avard . from the place Avhcre four
roads meet."J Capt. Benjamin Flagg, Lieut. Simon Da
vis, and Lieut. Joseph Hubbard, were appointed a com
mittee to select the proper spot, " which shall be found the
most accommodable therefor to. be fixed and staked out.""^
The question may have arisen in the minds of some
of this audience, what was the character of the preach
ing in those early times-'] A vote recorded upon the
29th page. Vol. 1, of the proprietors' - books, furnishes a
most satisfactory answer. December 29, 1736 : "Voted,
That provision be made for supporting an orthodox min
ister to preach the gospel in said North half, for three
years next to come."
To defray the expenses which would necessarily arise
* Proprietors' Books, Vol. 1 : p. 27. t Ibid, Vol. I : p. 29.
t The first meeting house occupied the site whBru now .standi the house of
Col. Damon. It never was painted. The windows wrie small, and set
with diamond glass in leaden sashes ; nine in front and five in each end.
There vvere a number of noon-houses near, for the accoiuniodutiua of (.eix
sons living at a distance.
§ Proprietors' Books, Vol. 1 : p. 29.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 29
from carrying the above- votes into execution, a tax of
4d. per acre for the first year; 2d. per acre for the second
year ; and 3d: per acre for the following year, Avas as
sessed upon all lands lying within the North half of
Worcester.* Reasons, sufficiently strong induced the inhabitants of
North Worcester to take the proper measures for obtain
ing a separate act of incorporatio;i, during the winter of
1739 and 40. The 9th of Jan., 1740, has for a long pe
riod been the date assigned for the incorporaticHt of this
town. Without doubt, thisdate is too early by one year.
The error probably arose from the practice, then, preva
lent in the colonies and throughout Europe, of com
mencing the year on* the 25th of Marchj instead of the
1st of January. This practice went into disuse in the
year 1752, by an Act of Parliament ; when. New Style
was adopted in the place of Old Style.!
A few events, worthy of notice, which took place pre--
viously to the Act of incorporation being granted, I will
proceed to narrate. At a general meeting of the citizens
of North and South Worcester, held March 3, 1740, it was
voted, that the North half part of the township be set off a
distinct and separate town, if an Act to that effect could
be obtained from the General Court.:]: On the 13th of
May following, a petition, signed by twenty-five citizens
of North Worcester, was forwarded: to the General Court,
praying to be set off a separate and distinct toAvn. This
petition was not granted. At the next meeting, of the
General Court — November of the- same year — another pe-.
tition was presented ; and;the petitioners were successful
in obtaining An Act of Incorporation. The Act passed
the General Court, January 2, and was signed by His

§ Proprietors' Boioks, Vol. 1: p. 30. f Encyclopsedia Anctericana,
Vol. 4 : p, 649. I WoroesterTo.wfi Records
3*

30

HISTORY OF HOLDEN.

Excellency, Governor Belcher, Jan. 9, 1741, and in the
14th year of the reign of George II.
When this Act had passed the General Court, the
North half of Worcester became a distinct and separate
town, "by the name of Holden, with all the powers, privi
leges, and immunities which the inhabitantsofothertowns
within this Province do, and by laAv ought to enjoy."^
The elevated character and beneficent exertions of the
gentleman ih honor of Avhom this town received its name,
merit, on the present occasion, a respectful and grateful
notice. The Hon. Samuel Holden was a- merchant of London.
By his talaits, integrity; and great capacity in mercan
tile affairs, he raised himself to a seat in Parliament,
and became a leading Director of the Bank of England.
At the time of his death, June 13, 1740, his estate was
valued at £80,000 sterling: Unfeigned piety and, abound
ing charities added lustre and power to the other excel
lencies, of his character. He was ackowledged. to be at
the head' of the Dissenters in Great Britain, w^hich cir
cumstance, probably induced him to direct his benevo
lent efforts to the colonies- of New England. For more
than forty years he was a correspondent of Dr. Benjamin
Coleman of Boston, who preached a sermon on the oc
casion of his death being announced in this country.
This sermon having been preached before the General
Court of the Colony, an Order was passed, containing
these words : "• —  — be a committee to return
the thanks of this Court to the Rev. Dr. Coleman, for his
sermon preached this etay, (September 4th, 1740,) before
the Court, on the occasion of the death of the Hon. Sam
uel Holden, an eminent friend and benefactor of the
Province." Mr. Holden furnished abundant proof of

* Act of Incorporation. See Note B:

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 31
his desire to promote the cause of evangelical piety in
this country. Dr. Coleman received from him 39 sets of
Baxter's practical works, in 4 massive folios, to be dis
tributed among the churches of New England. The
sum' of his charities, at different times, amounted to
£4,847. After his death, his widow and daughters em
ulated his noble example in the eaiise of benevolence.
HoLBEN Chapel, at Cambridge, was built by their gener
ous donations. Numerous theological works were pre
sented by them to the first Pastor of the church in Hol
den-, and to his successors. I would conclude this no
tice of Mr. Holden, by two short extracts from his
letters. Alluding in one to the death- of his only son, he
remarks, — " I have had one son, and it pleased God
early to take him from me; my comfort in the loss of
him and my dear mother, was, that I had in eaeh, one
attachment less to earth — one argument more for heaven.' '
On another occasion he writes, — "I hope my treasure is
in heaven, and would to God my heart were more there.
Abstract from- God and: futurity, I would not accept of an
eternity here in any other circumstances whatever."*
By an order of" the General Court, issued March 26,
1-741, John Bigelow, a principal inhabitant of Holden,
was anthoriised to assemble the legal voters, at some con
venient place, for the choice of town officers: The citi
zens assembled in obedience to that order on the 4th of
May. The records of that meeting have already been
rehearsed: Another meeting was legally called, after the
expiration oi two weeks, for the transaction of town
affairs. Six votes are recorded upon the town books as
having been passed on that occasion. To the honor of
the citizens of Holden legally assembled in that meeting,
• Dr. Coleman's Sermon. President Qnincy's History of Harvard Uni-
veriity. The Gentlcraiui's Magazine. Allen's BiogTapfaie^l Pictionary .

32 HISTOBY OF HOLDEN.
the vote which was first passed deserves to be written in
letters of gold: "VOTED TO HAVE THE GOSPEL
PREACHED IN TOWN." The following two relate to
the same subject. The fourth vote deserves to be recorded
in characters of nearly equal brilliancy with the first :
"VOTED TO HAVE A WRITING AND READING
SCHOOL." A public pound was the object of the fifth
vote. Then followed the last vote passed upon the occa
sion, which related to a tax of £50 to be raised;, "to de
fray the charge of preaching and schooling."*
One hundred years have passed, and, to the honor of
our ancestors and their children, let the fact be published
to the world, that the spirit which animated the citizens
of Holden on that day still burns in the bosoms of their
descendants. Good schools and good preaching have
always received a liberal support from the inhabitants of
this town.
During the year 1741, a school of 3 months was main
tained, commencing the 1st of September. No- church,
as yet, had been organized, or pastor settled'. The town,
by an unanimous vote, July 19, 1742, invited the Rev.
Joseph Davis to enter upon the work of the gospel min-
istry in town. A salary of £180 (old tenor, $15'4s 33) was
voted to be annually paid to him, andHhe sum of £400 (O.
T. $343) as a settlement donation. FromitSie reply of Mr.
Davis, we learn the manner in which the settlement money
was to be paid. After expressing' his acceptance of the
salary proposed, he proceeds to* say — " As to the settle
ment, I accept the same as follows : I take the lands in
the said Holden, given to the first settled minister, ! viz.
one hundred acres of upland in two pieces, each con
taining 50 acres, and 4 acres. of meadow, (so called,) at
the sum of £215, (old tenor,) as apprized by order of the
' Town Records, VoJl. 1 : p., 8» t Propfietots' Books, Vol. 1 : p. 16.-

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 33
town, with the proprietors' concurrence, in part for my
settlement money. 2. I depend on receiving from the
town or propriety the remaining sum of £185 (0. T.) as
soon as it can be collected."*
The interesting exercises . of Mr. Davis' ordination
were performed December 22, 1742. Four of the neigh-
bojing churches were represented by their Pastors and
Delegates, viz, Lancaster, Worcester, Shrewsbury, and
Rutland. A church was regularly organized the same
day, consisting of fourteen members. All were males.
Nine were admitted by letters from other churchss, and
five upon profession.!
The leading aims of the first settlers of Holden were
now accomplished. They desired, for years, " to be set
off a distinct and separate town ;" that desire was now
fully gratified. To have the gospel ministry established
in their midst, was the object of their most strenuous
efforts and ardent prayers. Those efforts were noAV
croAvned with success, and those prayers literally answer
ed. The records which have been preserved of that
period most clearly indicate great harmony and peace
among the citizens of Holden.
We must now begin. to trace the influence of commo
tions and wars in the Old World, in their effects upon
the Colonies of the New, if a correct picture be exhibit
ed of the most retired settlement in the Avilderness.
In 1744 England declared war against France. The
colonists warmly espoused the cause of their father-land.
For a period of more than 25 years, previous to this date,
the French had been actively employed in rendering more
secure their possessions in North America. To protect
their navigation and fisheries, they had built the town of
Louisbourg, on the island of Cape Briton in Nova Sco-
* Town Rec, Vol. 1 s p. 9. t Church Rec, Vol. 1 : p. 27. See Note C.

34 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
tia. Vast sums of money had there been expended.
Forts had been erected and batteries planted. " This
place was deemed so strong and impregnable as to be
called the Dunkirk of America." Gov. Shirley of Mas
sachusetts projected a plan for the redaction of this
strong hold. The province of Massachusetts was called
upon to furnish more thah 3,000 men for this enterprise.
Every town responded to the summons. We have the
strongest circumstantial evidence that Holden furnished
its quota of soldiers. Many of the muster rolls of the
forces then raised having been destroyed, I am unable to
rehearse the names of soldiers drafted from Holden.
The enterprize was most successfully executed. The
labors and dangers encountered by the colonists of NeA*-
England, are well-nigh incredible. When the news of
this event reached Europe, " the enterprise, patriotism,
and firmness of the colonists were justly extolled."*
In tracing the history of Holden, we are approaching
the close of that generation, who may be called —
The First Settlers op Holden.
With the most intense interest must our minds lingei
around this period of our history. The men of that
day had difficulties and trials to overcome such as meet
the first settlers in every new country. To clear the
forests, erect houses, make roads, build bridges, main
tain schools, and support the gospel ministry, Avere ob
jects most cheerfully performed by our worthy ancestors.
Barely to live was not the whole of life with them ; it
was their determination to live as honest men, good
neighbors, honorable citizens, and accountable to God.
From no source of information have I gathered facts
which would lead to the conclusion, that the first settlers
of Holden were inferior to that generation of men whose
* Holmes' Annals, II., p. 29, 28,

history of holden, 35
settlement in New England forms so important an epoch
in history, and whose fame knows no other limits than
the whole civilized world. It is not until 1753 that I
discover any public misdemeanor to have been commit
ted by a citizen of Holden, — when two boys were fined
£1, 7sh; for breaking glass in the meeting house.*
A large proportion of the families first settling in Hol
den, could trace their ancestry back to the earliei- settlers
of New England. Many came from Concord, some from
Lexington, and others from Watertown, Medfield, and
other towns in the eastern part of the Province. Through
one of these families. His Excellency, the present Gov
ernor of Massachusetts, traces the liiie of his ancestors.
I refer to the family of Mr. Simon Davis, moderator of
the first town meeting. He was also chosen, at the same
meeting, chairman of the board of Selectmen, and Grand-
juryman. During his life he sustained the most impor
tant offices in the power of his fellow townsmen to be
stow, and died, Feb. 16, 1763, at the advanced age of
eighty years.!
The charge of excessive vanity has, again and again,
been cast upon the people of New England, for speaking
in terms "which betray warm admiration for the charac
ter of their ancestors. Those who would reproach us
being the judges, there is acknowledged truth in a
quaintly expressed sentiment of an old writer : " The
Lord sifted the kingdoms of Europe to obtain good
seed wherewith to plant the sterile fields of New Eng
land." (I quote from memory.)
Allusion has already been made to the fact that wars

*Town Records, Vol. 1 : p. 64. "Voted, £1-7*. now in the Treasu
rer's hands, that he received from Isaac Lealand and Joseph Bush for their
shooting at the meeting house, be for mending the glass and other breaches
in said meeting house ?"
t Town Records and Grave-stone.

38 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
among the nations of Europe affected the welfare of the
American Colonies. The war known in history by the
name of "French and Indian War" furnishes melan
choly evidence for the truth of this statement. " The
military records of those wars," writes Governor
Everett, "as far as the province of Massachusetts is
concerned are still in existence. The original muster
rolls are preserved in the State House at Boston. They
prove that the people of Massachusetts, between the
years 1755 and 1763 performed an amount of military
service, probably never exacted of any other people, liv
ing under a government professing to be free. Not a
village in Massachusetts, but sent its sons to lay their
bones in the West Indies, in Nova Scotia, and the Cana
dian wilderness. Judge Minot states, that in the year
1757, one third part of the effective men of Massachu
setts were, in some Avay or other, in the field, and that
the taxes imposed on real property in Boston, amounted
to two thirds of the income."*
I have examined many of the old muster rolls and
other records relating to this war, now safely deposited
in our State archives. From those papers I have copied
the names of such persons as engaged in the French
and Jndian war who were drafted from Holden :  Wil
liam Fisher, Richard Flagg, Samuel Boyd, and Peter
Nutten, enlisted into the company of Capt. Benj. Flagg
of Worcester, to strengthen the forces stationed at Lake
George. Henry Rice, Job Harris, Samuel Estabrook,
John Murphey, Jedediah Estabrook, (son of Samuel Es
tabrook,) Samuel Hubbard, jr., Samuel Bigelow, John
Woodward, Samuel Thompson, and Ebenezer Fletcher
enlisted into the company of Capt. John Chandler for
the invasion of Canada. In an expedition to Crown Pt.
* Everett's Orations, p. 500.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 37
the following persons served under Capt. Fletcher of
Rutland, viz., Ebenezer Fletcher, 1st Lieut., Ebenezer
Fletcher, jr., 2d Lieut., Samuel Estabrook and son, Job
Harris, Samuel Hubbard, and John Murphy, Privates.
There can be no doubt, that many other soldiers from
Holden engaged in this war, whose names cannot now
be given, because until within a few years, no pains
were taken to preserve the muster rolls of those early
wars. Our fathers were willing to expose their lives and ex
pend their fortunes for the welfare of the mother coun
try. The American Colonists were as loyal subjects of
the Crown of England, as those personally serving in
the palace of King George III. The French and Indian
war, from this circumstance, has not inappropriately
been styled " the schoolvf the Revolution." Washington
distinguished himself as a brave commander in this
war, and from the English learned the science of mili
tary tactics. During that war, many of his officers and
private soldiers became intimately acquainted with the
practical duties of the camp and field. From the point
of observation which we occupy, it most readily appears
how important was that service to prepare those men
for the stations of trust and responsibility, Avhich they
were called to occupy at a subsequent period of their
lives. Before proceeding to speak of eAfents in the revolu
tionary war as they affected the progress of affairs in
Holden, I shall notice some records preserA'^ed among our
church and town papers. In 1759, Daniel Henchman,
Esq., of Boston, gave to the town, the spot of land oc
cupied for the first burying ground, measuring 12 rods
long, and 10 rods broad.* Additions have since been
• The Deed. 4

38 HISTORY or HOLDER
made increasing fhe area to its present dimensions. The
20th of August, 1761, was observed as a day of fasting
and prayer by reason of a severe di'ought.* During the
early history of the town frequent mention is made that
public schools were kept at houses of private persons.
In 1752, a school was kept 3 months at Mr. Joseph Hub
bard's house : another school, the same year, at Lieut.
Cyprian Stev*ens' house. During the folloAving year,
schools were kept in other parts of the town, — 3 months
at the centre ; 3 months at Jonathan Lovell's house ; and
3 months at Lieut. Richard Flagg's house. In 1754, it
was voted, in town meeting, that £13-6s.-8c?., be apprO-^
priated for the erection of a school house at the centre
of the town. I have not been able to learn that this
vote Avas carried into execution. Tradition reports that
the first school house Avas erected in the east part of the
town, in the neighborhood of the Bullard place. The
sum annually appropriated for schools gradually in-;
creased from year to year. In 1752, the sum of £11-12^.
was raised for 6 months schooling ; and in 1762 the sum
had increased to £30, including the interest upon the
lime lot.^
The connection of the Rev. Mr. Davis, as pastor of
the church in Holden, continued until January, 1773 ;
when he was dismissed at his own request. From a
printed sermon of Mr. Davis, I have gathered some sta
tistics relating to the history of this town, worthy of
preservation, as they were collected by one so intimately
acquainted with the first settlers of Holden. I would
remark that Mr. Davis preached this sermon January 2,
1793, fifty years having passed sinpe his introduction to
the work of the gospel ministry. " At first," Avrites Mr.
Davis, " your increase was slow ; little alteration for the
* Church Records, t Town Records.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 39
term of five years ; but, afterwards, the increase was
more ; for, at the end of ten years, your number of fami
lies was fifty-five. For the second ten years, the in
crease in families was small, only ten. The last ten
years of my ministry, the increase was fifty one. The
whole number at my dismission, about one hundred and
six ' families. There had been 642 births ; about 330
weve males, and about 310 were females. There have
died 214 persons ; about 80 under the age of tAvo years ;
and more than half under the age of five. The number
baptized by me about 520. At the end of twenty years
the church consisted of about 75 members, and when I
was dismissed of 86 •, 38 males, 48 females. There was
a remarkable sickness about seven years after my settle
ment ; 22 persons died. And about 6 years after, the
year after the great Earthquake, a raging distemper car
ried off about 45 persons in a short time, mostly younger
persons and children."*
I'he great earthquake, to which allusion is made in
the above extract, occurred November 15, 1755. The
shock was felt in various parts of North America. In
Boston, " 100 chimnies were in a manner levelled with
the roof of the houses. Many clocks were stopped."
In New Haven, Ct., " the ground in many places seemed
to rise like Avaves of the sea. The tnotion of the earth
was undulatory. Its extent was from Chesapeak Bay,
southwest, to Halifax, northeast, about 800 miles."!
> The effects of this earthquake were most visibly appar
ent in that part of Holden, subsequently set off to form
the town of West Boylston. The Rev. John Mellen, at
that period pastor of the second church of Lancaster,
(now Sterling,) has giA'en a minute description of the
place, as it then appeared. Several acres of land were
• Rev. Mr. Davis's SSorroen, p. 20, 21. t Holmes' Annals, 11,, p. 67.

40 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
sunk, in some places " more than the height of a man.""
Trees on each side of the breach were thrown in various
directions, " and some sometimes erossing each other
over head, at right angles, sometimes thrown up by the
roots." The old channel being blocked up, the Avater
fl'ows in an entirely new direction. The stump of a tree
that happened to stand directly over the chasm, on the
east, is divided into equal parts, one standing on the out
side of the chasm ; the other on the insidie, but not op
posite to each other. The half within the chasm being
carried five feet forward t-owards the river.* It is a re
markable fact that this earthq.uake occurred the same
ibionth and year with, that terrible convrulsion of the-
earth, which sunk a portion of Lisbon, the chief city o£
Portugal, containing a population of 150,000 ; one fifth
part of whom suddenly perished. Every church and
convent fell. Fires broke out, two hours after the shock,
which continued to rage for three days, so that the city
was completely desolated.!
The church in Holden remained without a pastor
nearly two years after the dismission of the Rev. Mr.
Davis. December' 21st, 1774, Mr. Joseph Avery, having
received a call from the church and town, was ordained
to the work of the- gospel ministry. :f His annual salary
was established, £66-13s.-4d., lawful money, ($222 22) ;
and the sum of £133-6s.-8rf., L. M., ($444 44) was vo
ted as a settlement donation.
Some prominent events of the Revolutionary war now
claim our attention, if Ave would carefully trace the his
tory of this town, during that most eventful period in
our country's history. The first allusion to events which
led to that war I find upon the records of the church in

* MassachusetU Historical Collections, Vol. 4, Isl Series, p. 231. t En-
e;clop:edia Aioericana, VIII., p. .0. t See Note D.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 41
Ihe hand-writing of the pastor. "October 12, 1768, ob
served as a day of fasting and prayer on account of the
aspects of Divine Providence in our public affairs."* By
consulting Provincial history, the cause is readily appar
ent why a day of fasting and prayer was observed. Oc
tober 1st, numerous companies of British soldiers had
been stationed in the city of Boston. " The colonists
felt disgusted and injured, but not overaAved, by the
presence of obtruded soldiery."! How truly character
istic of the genuine sons of the Puritans, was the con
duct of the good people of this town, on the present oc
casion. " The aspects of Divine Providence" in " pub
lic affairs" betokening civil commotions, our fathers
were ready to humble themselves before God. War
might come. How accordant with the dictates of reason
and the soundest principles of religion, to look for guid
ance and direction to a wise and benevolent God !
A town meeting of the citizens of Boston was held
• Church Recor-ds, Vol. 1 . p. 42.
t "On the day after the arrival, the fleet [the man-of-war and transports
from Halifax] came to anchor near Castle William. Having taken a station
which commanded the town, the troops, under cover of the cannon of the
chips, landed without molestation, and, to the number of 700 men, march
ed, with mnsk«t9 charged, bayonets fixed, martial music, and the usual mil
itary parade, into the common. In the evening, the selectmen of Boston
were required to quarter the two regiments in the town ; but they absolnte-
ly refused. A temporary shelter, however, in Fanueil Hall, was permitted
Id one regiment, that was without its camp eqaipage. * * The lower
floor of the State House, which had been used by gentlemen and merchants
as an exchange, the Representatives' chamher, the Court House, Fanue
Hall — places with which were intimately associated ideas of justice and free
dom, as well as of convenience and utility — were now filled with regular
soldiers. • * The common was covered with tents. Sentinels challeng
ed the inhahitants as they passed. The Lord's day was profaned, and the
devotions of the Sanctuary disturbed, hy the sound of drums and other mil
iary mnsie." — Holmes' Annals, II., p. 158, 9.
4*

42 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
November 2, 1772.. A large committee — James Otis,
chairman — was appointed on the motion of Samuel Ad
ams. This committee was instructed to state the rights
of the colonists, and of this Province in particnlar, as
men, as Christians, and as subjects; to communicate
and publish the same to the several towns in this Pro
vince and to the World, as the sense of this town, with
the infringements and violations thereof that have been,
or from time to time may be made ; also requesting of
each town a free communication of their sentiments on
the subject. The letter of correspondence to the several
towns, closes with these words:. "Let us consider,
brethren, we are struggling for our best birth rights and
inheritance, which being infringed renders all our bless
ings precarious in their enjoyment, and consequently
trifling in their value. Let us disappoint the men, who
are raising themselves on the ruin of this country. Let
us, convince every invader of our freedom, that we will
be as free, as the Constitution our fathers recognized,
will justify."* A pamphlet, containing the resolutions
of this meeting and the appeal of the committee was
printed and extensively circulated through the colonies,
but particularly in the towns of the province of Massa
chusetts Bay. The public mind was aroused. The re
solves of the Boston patriots were cordially responded to
from the most retired villages in the Province. The
citizens of Holden passed fourteen resolutions, making
known in the most unequivocal language, their senti
ments. The length of this document, alone, prevents
Tiie from copying it entire, to be read on the present oc-
casioii. Listen to the 1st, 4th, 9th, and 13th resolutions,
as exhibiting the spirit which animated the bosoms of
our fathers, in those days which " tried men's souls."
* Holmes* Annals, II., p. 178.

HISTORY OF HOLBEN. 43
1. " Resolved, That Liberty, both Religious and civil,
is a most precious and inestimable gift of the great and
glorious Creator of all things, granted to all rational
creatures ; neither can any person or persons innocently
give or sell it away from himself any more than he can
take it frmn another.*
2. " If any have been so unhappy as to surrender
their Liberty,, such act of theirs cannot induce any moral
obligation of servitude on them personally ; especially
if they were enslaved by irresistible power ; surely then
it cannot reasonably bind their successors in every fu
ture generation.-
3. "That it is to us equally manifest that no one nation,
State, or political society, has any right to rule or command
another, especially without the consent of the latter.
4. " The jreople of New England have never given
the people of Britain any right of jurisdiction over us,
consequently we deem it to be the- most unwarrantable
usurpation, and vicAV it as an insufferable insult in the
British Parliament that they assume a Legislative Au
thority over the American colonies.
5. " We cheerfully profess the most perfect Loyalty
to the King, as having an essential voice in our charter
government. 6. " We are assured that no political community on
earth can truly enjoy Liberty without civil government ;
Therefore, civil government is an invaluable divine
blessing ; and Anarchy is the greatest of public evils —
one only excepted, that is a state of complete and con
firmed Tyranny.
7. " And such Tyranny is evidently the object of some
very recent measures of the British administration and

* Some gentlemen have expressed a wish to see these Resolotione print
ed, tntirt

44 history of HOLDEN.
government ; particulatly those mentioped to ns in a
letter from our worthy friends, the citizens of Boston ;
and the project of despotism and arbitrary government
appears to be nearly accomplished and settled, so that
nothing but the vigilance and combined efforts of this
people, under the auspicious Providence of Heaven can
save us from abject Slavery and Total Ruin.
8. " Therefore, we are compelled to speak and divulge
our sober and very grievous apprehensions,, and are
willing all mankind should know that we are far froni
acquiescing in the many gross violations of our just
rights, too conspicuous and palpable now to require a
particular enumeration, and truly we should be charge
able with very criminal silence, if we did not remon^
strate against every glaring attempt of any persons of
what Rank or Denomination so ever, to bereave us of
our Liberty.
9. " Resolved, That the right of Kings (whether it be
a human or divine right) is founded on the same princi
ples of public Liberty, which we assert ; and the right
of our present Sovereign, George III., to the British
throne was explicitly by compact derived, from the same
principle. 10. "And therefore we must behold them as guilty of
treason against his sacred Majesty and his illustrious
House, who are making attempts to subvert the liberties
of his faithful subjects, as nothing can be more repug
nant to the Constitution of England and of this province)
than that George should; be King of slaves ; so if the an
tiquated doctrine of passive obedience and non-resistance
should now revive and move abroad, and half the nation
were so blind and infatuate as to embrace such a deformr
ed Monster, the throne must shake and tremble to its
base ! The Lord Alijiighty avert the horrid catastro-

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 45;
phy; to prevent it our prayers and endeavors shall not
be wanting !
11. "In publishing our sentiments and resolutions Ave
are moved by natural and Christian benevolence to the
good people of Britain, wfhose prosperity is dear to us as
our own. It is therefore our hearty prayer that God
would preserve them from the depth of political lethargy
and mercifully defend them from the iron fang of tyran
ny, as Slavery has ever been abhorrant to the Genius of
Britain ; it must be peculiarly shameful and painful to
Englishmen, till we shall have lost the spirit of our truly
worthy ancestors, and forfeited the English name. As
we are far from suspecting the people of Britain (our old
Ally) of being enimical to us, our ardent brotherly love
to them is an additional incitement to assert our own
freedom ; it being very certain that if liberty expires,
here, it will not long survive, there ; we are therefore
ambitious of transmitting our names to all posterity, as
favored instruments in the hands of God, of having pre
served Britain from destruction, therefore, we supplicate
the Throne of Mercy, that God would excite his people
in Britain and America to a reformation of morals, be
cause, as sin is the reproach and ruin of any people, so
righteousness exalteth a nation to the summit of happi
ness and glory.
12. "Therefore, Resolved, That there is, an intimate
connection between the Liberty and Virtue of any peo
ple; if Liberty be gone. Religion will infallibly languish
to extinction.
13. "We plead for Liberty, because it is the respecta
ble patroness of the liberal arts and sciences. This was
doubtless the judgment of our pious and worthy ances
tors, who chose a wild desert with Liberty ; rather than
the fruitful fields and beautiful gardens of their native

46 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
land with slavery ; and who were in their first settlement,
very zealous to erect a seminary of learning as well as
to build and multiply christian churches. We desire to
follow their noble example, to promote in our measure
learning and liberty, in delightful and harmonious union,
and Avould noAV recommend it to our children and their
successors, forever, to be imitators of us, and of our tru
ly wise, and virtuous and venerable progenitors.
14. " We think it our duty, on this occasion on behalf
of ourselves and our dear country, to express our sincere
gratitude to the respectable gentlemen of Boston for the
light and counsel, they have presented to us in the circu
lar letter, and their many geneious efforts in the cause
of liberty, and it is our earnest prayer to Almighty God,
that they may be animated^ still to proceed and that they
may prosper according to the desire of their hearts, and
receive the most ample and durable reward.
"And, That the above resolves be recorded on the town
books of records, and that the Town Clerk give an at
tested copy to said Committee of Correspondence at Bos
ton. " The above being put to vote and passed in the affir
mative."
"JOHN CHILDS,
JONA. WHEELER,
ANDREW SMITH,
JAMES DAVIS,
"JOHN CHILDS, Moderator."
The way was rapidly preparing for an open rupture
between England and her American Colonies. The co
ercive measures of the British Parliament required the
Colonists to acknowledge principles subversive of true
liberty. Petitions and remonstrances failed to reconcile
the parties. War came. " Disperse — Disperse — you

? Committee."

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 47
rebels; throw down your arms and disperse,"* were the
words of Major Pitcairn, as he approached the sturdy
yeomanry of Massachusetts, assembled upon the plains
of Lexington. Then followed the di,scharge of muskets.
Eight brave Americans fell. The shouts of an exulting
foe, and the expiring groans of the dying, Avere harsh
sounds, in the ears of men whose grandsires were Puri
tans. They were notes of alarm to every genuine lover
of liberty throughout the colonies. This toAvn furnished
a company of 70 men, ready to leave their homes, at
the first alarm.
The population of the town, at that time, numbered
about 750.! Nearly one tenth of the entire population
was prepared to engage in actual service. During the
progress of the Avar, drafts were made for soldiers from
Holden, to serve at various military stations in the Nor
thern States. Wherever troubles existed, or dangers
were apprehended, thither marched soldiers from this
town. Some went to Rhode Island, others to New York,
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. The terms of
service of individual soldiers in the common militia,
when added, ainount to 74 years, supposing it to have
been performed by one man, at an expense to the town
of £l,961-0*-llc?.t No reference is made in this calcu
lation to the soldiers in the regular continental army, un
der the immediate command of Washington. In this
army 25 soldiers enlisted from Holden, for the term of
3 years, or during the Avar. Each one of these men re
ceived £20 or more as Bounty money, at the time of their
enlistment : So that during the year 1777, £763-0s-12d;
were paid from the town treasury to discharge the lia-

* Holmes 'Annals, p. 204.
t See Note E. JTown Records, vol. 2 — See Note F.

48 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
bilities, which had been thus incurred, to enlist soldiers.*
It would be interesting if time permitted, to narrate
the history of each soldier, who went from Holden, to
contend with the disciplined troops of England, upon
the field of battle. I will allude to a few. Thomas
Heard was the only person killed in actual service. He
fell near Saratoga, N. Y., and his dead body was borne
away by William Ebet. Moses Wheeler and Jeremiah
Fuller died at Valley Forge, Penn., having suffered most
intensely from cold and hunger. David Potter deserted
ito the enemy, having previously been saved from the ig
nominy of a public execution, by the timely interposition
of Lady Washington. The conduct of his brother James
was far different. He was among the foremost to o'er-
leap the heights at Yorktown, causing thousands of the
'British soldiers to surrender, Avhilst their General, Lord
'Cornwallis surrenders his sword into the hand of Wash
ington. Capt. George Webb was the only commissioned officer,
in the continental service from Holden. At the time of
his enlistment, he was not an inhabitant of the town.
He came with his family to this place during the war.
Capt. Webb was a fearless soldier, and an high-spirited
officer. Whenever an enterprise requiring bravery and
skill, was to be undertaken, Washington and Lafayette
knew Capt. Webb to be a man to their minds. I hold in
my hand the original copy of a letter, addressed by Gen
eral Lafayette, to Capt. Webb. I will read the first sen
tence — "Dear Sir — Your successful skirmish had affor
ded me the most greatest pleasure, and I request you will
receive yourself and present to your company my best
thanks on the occasion."! It was in the company of
?State Records. — See Note G.
+ Letter f««nd among the old.papers of Capt. Webb.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 49
Capt. Webb, that Deborah Sampson, an American young
lady, served as a continental soldier, for nearly three
years. She performed the dutiesof .every station -assign
ed to her, with punctual exactness, fidelity, and honor.*
The hours of this day would not suffice, for me to re
hearse an account of the many bloody battles, and hair-
l)readth escapes, to the recital of which most of this au
dience have listened when a Rice, a Rogers, -a Potter, a
Nash, or a Flagg, would make himself the hero of his
story, whilst perchance, he
" Shoulder'd his crtitcli, and show'<I how fields were won."
The citizens of Holden entered into a solemn covenant
to sustain the committee, chosen to watch for the public
safety, and voted that such persons as refused to unite
with them should have their names published in the Bos
ton Gazette, as enemies of their country. The town,
also, "voted that every blacksmith, shoemaker, miller and
housewright do not directly or indirectly do or cause to
be done any Bort of business, in their respective occupa
tions for any of those persons" who would not sign the
covenant, which was to "be lodged at John Abbots', one
month, for the inhabitants of Holden to sign."! Tradi
tion reports that a Mr. Goulding, living in the south part,
was so offended with this measure of the town, that he
immediately commenced building the grist mill, and saw
mill now owned by Mr. Bennett.
This decided movement was not regarded as sufficient
for the general good. To prevent , monopoly upon such
articles as were considered the necessaries of life, the
Selectmen, and Committee of Safety were empowered,
by an Act of the -Provincial Congress to establish ulti-
mum prices.

* Her Memoirs. tTown Records, vol. 3, p. IB, January 3, 1775.
5

50 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
" FarmiDg labor from the 20th June, not to exceed 3 ebilKngs per day.

Wheat,

6s

Od

per bushel;

Indian Corn

3s

Od

¦> ¦<

Spanish potatoes,

Is

id

•« " in the fall;

l« <c

63

6d

" " in the spring;
Beans,
«s
Od
CC CC
Clean flax seed.
6s
Od
(t <c
Turnips,
Os
8d
per bushel;
Apples,
Os
8d
«C it
Horse keeping over night
,1s
4d
Oats,
Os
3d
per mess;
Lodging,
Os
3d
If
per night;
Potluck,
Os
8d
per meal;
New England flip.
Os
9d
per mng;
West India flip,
Os
lid
(t («
Good grass-fed beef.
Os
2d
2f
per lb.;
New Milk,
Os
2d
per quart;
Tobacco,
Os
7d
per lb. ;
A glass of New England rum 2 coppers;
Doctor's travel, 6d per mile— out;
Shop joiner to have 3s per piece for common colored chairs with bottoms;
the rest of their work in the same proportion."*
Among papers belonging to the Rev. Mr. Avery, I have
found a small memorandum book, which contains some
entries of peculiar interest. The book bears date 1782.
That was a period of great distress among the people.
The war had been long. Money was scarce, and it was
with some difficulty that Mr. Avery received his annual
salary. His parishioners, however, were disposed tb
share with their pastor, the good things of life. " Mem-*
orandum of gifts received." "Of Dea. Hubbard, a piece
of beef ; a pail of soap ; a loaf of bread ; a few candles ;
2 quarts of milk ; a cheese and 4 lbs. of butter." " Of
Mr. Abbott, a piece of beef and of pork ; also a spare-
rib ; 3 candles ; some malt and a piece of bread, also
two wash tubs and 30 nails, and a few hops." " Of
* Town Records, vol. 2, p. 40 & 41. —The above list might be enlarged.
HISTOtSY OF HOLDEN. 61
Lieut Hubbard, a piece of beef, a cheese and some
malt." "Of Mr. Ebn' Estabrook, a leg of pork."
" Of Dea. Fiske, a piece of beef, Jan'y 6th." " Of Capt.
Samuel Hubbard, a leg of pork and a spare-rib, Jan'y
6th." "Of Mr. Howe, a piece of pork, Jan'y 6th."
"Of Mr, Cheney, a cheese and some sausages." "Of
Mr. Josiah Cheney, jr., some beans." "Of Mr. Jona.
Rice, a leg of pork." " Of Mr. Winch, a piece of fresh
meat — lamb." "Of Capt. Davis, a cheese and some
sauce." "Of Aaron Wheeler, a broom, soon after I
caipe to my house." "Of Moses Smith, 2 doz. candles,,
some butter." " Of Mr. Dryden, 1-2 doz. pigeons."
The ladies of that day were equally thoughtful in re
gard to the wants of the Parish Priest. " Of Mrs. Benj.
Flagg, a cheese." " Of Mrs. Fisk, a lb. of combed flax."
"Of Mrs. EUsha Hubbard, some flax." "Of Mrs. Pot-.
ter, some butter and a broom.", "Of Mrs. Newton, a
piece of veal and a calf's head." " Of Mrs. Holt, some
cloth for a shirt." " Of Mrs. Mead, some butter, applesj,
potatoes." " Of Mrs. Heard, a loin of veaJ."
The most abundant evidence might be adduced, to
show, that the people of Holden unitedly, cordially, and
manfully engaged, with their fellow countrymen in the
Avar of the revolution. The trials, hardships, and dan
gers of eight summer and eight winter campaigns had
not quenched the ardent love of liberty in the bosoms of
colonists, who> could say, " We are two millions, one-
fifth fighting men. We are bold and vigorous, and we
call no man master."* It is not a point of uncertain.
conjecture, but of sober history, that the principles of
liberty set forth in ihe Declaration of ladependence had
previously been a subjiect of discussion in almost every
Afillage throughout the thirteen colonies. A rough block,
?James Otis.

32' HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
©f granite may be squared and polished, but that block
was granite before the stone-hewer's tool and the burn
isher's instrument prepared its- surfeice. The 14 resolu-
tdons passed by the citizens of Holden, and similar passed
by other towns, contained the elements afterwards com
bined in that memorable document of State, in which
the people of this land declared themselves — Indepen
dent; Free, and Equal. Taking the proceedings- and re
solves of the inhabitants as evidence of" the actual state
of things among the colonists, no candid man can rise
from their perusal, without the impression upon his mind
that each village must have had its Jefferson, Adams,
Sherman, Franklin, and Henry.
The immediate and lasting effects of the revolutionary
war; upon the interests of this town,, deserve a few pass
ing remarks. The unwise policy of England was first
felt along our sea-coast. (1.) Numerous families, hitli-
erto obtaining their livelihood from the seas, were driven
to other pursuits. For this cause, not less than 10 fami
lies removed from Harwich and vicinity Tupon the Cape)
to Holden. Such were the Rogers settling two miles
south. (2.) All lands belonging to persons supporting
the cause of the mother country, were confiscated. Many
hundreds of acres within this township, were thus trans
ferred to the State. The history of one tract, contain
ing about 600 a., deserves notice. This- tract of wood--
land belonged to WUl'iam Brattle, Esq^., of Cambridge,
Under an Act of the Legislature, passed 1781, it was
sold to pay State debts. Monsieur Pierre Matthieu An
dre, captain of the ship Jonathant, belonging to Jean
Francis Billou of Marseilles, in the south of Fiance,
purchased this tract of land, for £1,124^ or about $6 per
acre. The ship Jonathan having been condemned, as
Wjiseaworthy, Avas sold, and a part of the avails was in-.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 53"
vested, in the purchase of this land. For many years, ij.
was under the care of Ebenezer Estabrook, senior,,
and subsequently under the ca!re of his son. Sufficient
wood, was, from time to time, cut off to pay the taxes,
After much negotiation, it was sold in the year 1826, for
about fll per acre. The proceeds were transmitted to
the heirs, of the original owner in France; a sufficient
amount having been deducted to defray expenses attend
ing the sale. The origin, of the name^ — French land, will
have been apparent.*
(3.) The war of the revohition had searoely been
brought to a happy termination, before internal disordersf
threatened the overthrow of the general governmentf.
The insurrection, known in history as the Shays' Re
bellion, stands, prominent upon the annals of our coun
try. The spiiit of disaffection very sensibly disturbed
the order and decorum, which almost uniformly has char
acterized our town. I would now refrain from an allu
sion to this subject, if our town records, and the voice of
tradition were silent. Historical truth, however, often
duly checks and, properly tempers the glow of admirar,
tion, which we sometimfes, feel when, eon-templating the
patriotic exertions of our fathers. The financial inter
ests of our country were most deplorable, immediately
subsequent to. the war. Money w;as scarce. The cur
rency was in disorder. Public and private debts were
great, and in some parts of the country the load was
well-nigh insupportable.! To remedy a state of things

* A manuscript volume belonging to William Lincoln, Esq^.
t " After eight years of war, Massachusetts stood, with the splendor of
triumph, in repuhlican poverty, bankrupt in resources, with no revenue bi^t
an expiring currency, and no metal in her treasury more than the conti
nental copper, bearing the devices of union and freedom. * * * * At
length a flood of suits broke ont, In 1784 more than 2000 were entered
in the county of Worcester, then having a population less than 50,000, and,
ip 1785, about 1700." — See Lincoln's History of Worcester, chap. 8.
4*

54 HISTOteY OF HOLDEN.
so undesirable, some of our citizens, resorted: to the most
unjustifiable measures. Their wrath broke forth upon
the Courts of Justice. Capt. Wheeler of Hubbardston,
the first week of Sept., 1786, heading a band of armed
men took possession of the Ctjurt House- in Worcester.
The standard of revolt, being raised,, drew some of our
townsmen from the duties of quiet and peaceable citizens.
The court adjourned until December following. The in
surgents flushed with their partial success, returned
home, to foment greater commotions, Ottier portions of
the State caught the spirit of discontent. As the time
approached for the session of the Court of Common
Pleas in December, the insurgents (or Regulators as they
styled themselves) headed by Daniel Shays, were gath
ering their forces in the vicinity of Worcester. The Court,
in the mean time, opened at the Sun Tavern, (U. S, Ho
tel) and adjourned until January 23, without transacting
farther business. ' December 6th, Shays entered Worces
ter mounted upon a whit© horse. About- 800 troops form
ed his army. Tb compose this force numerous soldiers
went from Holden. These incidents took place on Thurs
day. The next day was spent in consultation. A terri
ble storm of snow occurred, Saturday. Gloom and des
pondency pervaded the bosoms of Shays' soldiers. Such
as went from Holden, returned through the drifting snow
to spend the Sabbath with their families. Shays conduc
ted the remnant of his forces to Springfield, to interrupt
the Court of Common Pleas, about to commence its ses
sion at that place.*
The Governor of Massachusetts called upon the Mili
tia of Boston and vicinity, to march under the command
of Gen. Lincoln, and to force the insurgents to_ surrender.
Success crowned the efforts of the constituted authorities.

' See Note IL

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 65<
Peace was again restored to the country. I have freely^
spoken of the part taken hy some of the citizens of Hol
den, because I became acquainted with many of the par
ticulars from the lips of a Regulator. In perfect good
humor, he gave me a list of such Regulators, as went from
Holden, not forgetting to enrol himself.
Resolutions^ disapproving the measures deemed jus
tifiable by some of the inhabitants of Holden, were pas
sed by a highly respectable body of men in town. Their
names I feel myself honored to read.* The document,
to which they were appended, is supposed to have been.
drafted by the Rev. Mr. Avery. These gentlemen caus
ed their protest, withi some accompanying documents to-
be published in the Worcester Magazine, for the third
week of January, 1787.!
If this was a proper occasion, many palliating consid
erations might be suggested, which would go far to re
move the charge of treason from persons attempting, by
military force, to- arrest the legal Court sessions at Wor
cester and other places.
The first meeting-house, exhibiting signs of decay, the
question was discussed in Town Meeting, December 10,.
1787, " Shall the old'meeting.'house be repaired, or a new
house built 7" J It was the opinion of the town to
build a- new house; A committee was appointed to draft
a plan and estimate the probable cost. The house was
erected during the year 1789.^ Many of this audience

* They were read at the time, t See Note I. i Town Records, vol. 2.
§ A, vote of the Town, May 10, 1790 :
" Voted — That the committee chosen to provide rum and sugar, to treat
spectators at the raising of the meeting-house be appointed lo settle with.
Capt. Davis for the money belaid out for sd rum and sugar and to take part
of the above said fourteen pounds of fine-money to settle it with."
After the House was completed, and the people had berome located in their
respective pevvs, it was provided, that "the wives sit in thtj seats opposite to,
and equal in rank with, their husbands." Also — ilint ilie audience should^
not leave their seats, nntil the Pastor and Deacons had passed out.

56", HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
remember to have worshipped in that house, which was,
r-ebuilt during the years 1827 and 8. An acre of land,.
in nearly the centre of which, this house stands, was
given to the town of Hplden, fpr a public common, and;
the accommodation, of a public meeting, house, 1789, by
the Hon. John Hancock.*
No sooneE were the citizenSv of Holden permitted to
worship in their, new house, than a vigorous effort was;
made to erect good and convenient school houses in dif
ferent parts of the- town. In the year 1793, the sum of
£400 was raised, for this purpose.! ^^ i^ most interesting,
to trace in the history of Holden, or any other communi-,
ty, the progress of the gospel and the public instruction,
of the young. When one is neglected the otheE.languishes.„
They appear mutually to affect each other.
An unpleasant controversy relating to church music,
disturbed the peace of society in town, near the close ofj
the 18th century. Some of the regular attendants upon,
public worship, refused to, occupy their seats. in th^ meet-,
ing-house, unless the psalms and hymns could be sung^
without the aid of the unconsecrated viol and the unhal
lowed pitch-pipe. The venerable pastor exerted most,
strenuously his peace-making talents. An uncoinmon
share he was acknojvledged, to possess;. A reconciliation .
between the parties was effected by the counsel and ad-.
vice of SO: wise a mediator. J After a few weeks had e-,
lapsed, it, was discovered to be more than a. poetical truth,
that '^ Music had charms to soothe the, savage hreasL"
We are approaching the limit, where I proposed' to.
* For and in.eonsideration of. the sum of five shillings, and of the loye,.
good will and affection which I have and do bear to the town of Holden^
and from a respect to the public worship of God, do hereby give, grant, and ,
convey to the said town of Holden— one acre of land." Thp Hon. Mr^^
Hancock's deed to the town of Holden.
t Towa, Records, vol. 2. i Cbujcch Records.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 67
close a connected narrative of the history of Holden.
The last event in the 18th century deserving notice on
the present occasion, is the just tribute of respect paid
throughout the country to the lamented Washington.
He died at Mount Vernon, December 14, 1799. Congress
recommended and set apart Feb. 22, 1800* as the day
when the nation unitedly might render becoming public
testimonials, of their sorrow and grief for the illustrious
DEAD.
The citizens of Holden observed the day by engaging
in appropriate exercises. The military parade was con
ducted by Capt. George Webb. A long procession pas
sed between files, of soldiers, whose inclining heads res
ted upon their " arms reversed." An eulogy was pro
nounced by the Rev. Mr. Avery. The singing is repor
ted to have been excellent, and was conducted by Mr.
Joseph Estabrook. The following lines, set to appropri
ate music, were sung : — <
" From Vernon's Mount, behold' the Hero rise.
Resplendent forms attend him through, the skies ;
The shades of War-worn Vet'rans round him throng.
And lead enrapt their honored Chief along.
" A laurel wreath th' immortal) Warren bears ;,
An arch triumphal Mercer's hand prepares ;
Young Lawrence 'erst th' avenging bolt of war
With port majestic guides the glittering car ;
" Montgomery's God-like form directs the way.
And Greene unfolds the gates of endless day,.
While angels trumpet-tongn'd proclaim through air.
Due honors for the first of men, prepare."
If time could be- spared in consistency with the other
exercises, of this, anniversary, 1 would proceed to narrate
historical events, which have occurred during the past
forty years. A history of the Ba^ptist church; a. con tin-
* Wa8biDg.toa'a. birth day,..

58 history of HOLDEN.
uation of the history of the Congregational church ; an
account oi our public and private schools ; a history of
vo-luntary and benevolent societies ; municipal affairs ;
military movements ; masonry ; history of the Post Office
department ; Justices of the peace ; Physicians ; College
graduates; missionaries; and numerous other topics
would demand our attention.*
Some have died among this people, whose memories
deserve a grateful recollection. I must ask of this audi
ence the indulgence of a few moments while I speak of
the Rev. Joseph Avery. A century has passed since this
town was organized, and during one half this period this
Reverend gentleman sustained the office of Pastor to this
people. He was a son of Dea. William Avery, South-
parish, Dedham, and was horn October 14, 1751. Be
fore the close of bis 16,th year, he entered Cambridge
University. During the third year of his collegiate
course, his mind was uncommonly impressed with the
subject of personal religion. His convictions for sin
were deep and pungent, so that for a season he ceased to
pursue the ordinary studies of his class. During the
four years of college life, he ever maintained the charac
ter of a diligent scholar and upright young man. He
has been heard to remark, that at one period, he was the
only undergraduate at the University not addicted to the
use of tobacco in some form. He graduated a member of
the class of 1771, and had a highly respectable appoint
ment assigned to him for the commencement exercises.
With some of his college acquaintance, he held a friendly
correspondencetongafter leaving the hallowed retreats of
Cambridge. Dr. Tappan, Hollis Professor at the Uni
versity, was an intimate friend and correspondent. The
Rev. Mr. Avery's settlement in Holden took place Dec^,
* See Appendix

history of HOLDEN. 59
1774. The Rev. Joseph HaVen of Dedham, preached
the ordination sermon, which was published. In Decem
ber, 1777, he was married to Miss Allen of Worcester, a
neice of Samuel Adams. The intercourse of Mr. Avery
with his family was uniformly characterized by kind
ness and affection. The temporal and spiritual welfare
of his children was a subject of great solicitude. Fami-
ly devotions were constant morning and evening, never
being omitted on any other occasion than sickness. Sat
urdays were uniformly spent in making preparation for
the Sabbath, and not unfrequently other days of the
week. His sermons were usually written. He number
ed his sermons until 1816, when the number amounted
to 2180 ; but continued to write until near the close of
his ministry. The latest date, is in the year 1822. The
number of sermons written during his entire ministry
would probably exceed 2300. It is not known that any
of his sermons were published. He wrote frequently
for the press. The marginal notes and references of
Isaiah Thomas's Quarto Bible were examined and com
pared by him. Mr. Avery's style of writing was pure and
chaste, and his doctrinal views evangelical and Calvinis-
tic upon most theological points. Dr. Thomas Scott was
his favorite commentator. During the unusually long
period of his public ministry in Holden, he ever exhibit
ed the conduct of a peace-making minister of Christ.
He was styled a Peace-maker. Enviable title ! Proud
distinction ! He was never heard to complain of his ar
duous labors as a pastor. When some of his parishion
ers desired him to relinquish his pastoral charge, the
tears were seen to course his cheeks furrowed by age.
He loved the people of his charge, and his love was
abiding until the close of his life.
" Nor e'er had chang'd, nor wish'd to change bis place."

60 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
He was seen in the pulpit until within two weeks of his
death, which occurred March 5, 1824*
The honored and beloved consort of the venerable
parson still lives, being now in the 87th year of her age.!
Having spoken thus of a man, who lived and labored
so long and faithfully among this people as a spiritual
guide, I will make a few remarks upon the life and cliar-
acter of another individual whose labors as a physician
were uncommonly useful to the people of this and the
neighboring towns, throughout a period of more than
half a century. Doct. Isaac Chenery was born at Med^
field, 1742 ; six weeks after the death of his father.
Early in life, he entered the service of his country, as a
soldier in the French and Indian War, and spent one
campaign to the northward upon the lakes. He receiv
ed a serious injury upon his ancle soon after his return
home. He was under the care of a surgeon, for nearly
four years ; during which period, he commenced the
study of physic and surgery, without having previously
enjoyed the advantages of a good education. Blessed
naturally with a vigorous constitution and a strong mind,
after a few months study, he ventured to offer himself as
a practitioner. In 1768 he settled in Holden, and by a
faithful, tender and successful care of his patients, soon
became extensively known as a physician and surgeon.
During the revolutionary war, he spent one year as a
surgeon in the army. His charges as a physician were
uniform and moderate. In the social, relative and pub
lic duties of life, he was beloved and respected. His
death occurred Oct. 20, 1822. He had nearly completed
his 80th year. When death closed his long and labori
ous life, many tears of sorrow were shed over an affec-
*Manuscript papers, now in the possession of Esq. White's family, Boyi-
eton. t With her daughter, Mrs. Wiiite,. Boylston.

HISTORY or HOLDEN. 61
tionate Father and Friend, by a numerous offspring and
acquaintance.* The length of time spent in presenting such facts, as
I have be^n able to gather, relating to the history of
Holden, will prevent me from indulging in remarks nat
urally suggested by the exercises of this day.
The citizens of Holden have received abundant bles
sings, which impressively call upon them on this occa
sion to be devoutly thankful to God. Honest, intelli
gent, industrious, and religious ancestors are among the
richest of any blessings to any people. Citizens of Hol
den : God has bestowed upon you that inestimable
blessing. The wise man hath well observed, "The
glory of children are their Fathers." I have found to be
beautifully expressed by another,! my concluding re
marks, — " Look not Wiournfully upon the past; it comes
not back again. Wisely improve the present ; it is thine.
Go forth to meet the shadowy future, without fear, and
with manly heart."
* Massachusetts Spy Obituary notice, t Processor Longfellow's Hyperion.
6

NOTES.

[Note A.— See page 22.]
first indian deed.
July 13, 1674.
Bee it known to all men by this present writing, that
Wee, John, alias Horrawannonit, or Quiquonassett, Sa
gamore of Pakachoge, and Solomon, alias Woonaskochu,
Sagamore of Tataessit, together with the consent of our
kindred and people, and for and in consideration of twelve
pounds of lawful money of New England, or the full
value thereof, in other specie, to our content, within three
months after the date hereof, well and truly to be paid,
and satisfied, and pt. whereof, viz. two coats and four
yards of trading cloth, valewed at twenty six shill. wee
do acknowledge to have received in hand, as earnest, of
Daniel Gookin senr. of Cambr. Esqr. and of Daniel
Hinchman, of Boston, Brewer, in behalf of themselves
and Capt. Thomas Prentice, and Lt. Richard Beers, and
the rest of the Genii. Court's Comittee, appointed for the
management of a new plantation granted by the said
Court, conteyning eight miles square, or the contents
thereof, being to the westward of Marlborough, near
Quansiquamond Ponds, and on each side of the Road
way leading towards ConneCticott ; NoW know yee, yt
wee, ye sd. Jno. and Solomon, Sagamores aforesaid, and
"upon the terms aforesaid, have bargained, sold, aliened,
enfeeoffed, and confirmed, unto ye sd Daniel Gookin,
fThomas Prentice, Daniel Hinchman, Richard Beers, and
ye rest of the people admitted, or to be admitted, by ye
sd comittee to be inhabitants of yt new plantation, and

64 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
to their heirs, executors, admrs, and assigns for ever, in
fee simple, all and every pt of our civill or naturall right,
in all and singular the broken up land and woodlands,
woods, trees, rivers, brooks, ponds, swamps, meadows,
mineralls, or any other thing, or things whatsoever, lying
and being within that tract of land, conteyning , eight
miles square or the contents thereof, to be layd out by
ye sd persons or their order in time convenient. To have
and to hold the premises, and every pt thereof, unto them
the sd Daniel Gookin, Thomas Prentice, Daniel Hinch
man, and Richard Beers, and all ye rest of ye sd Inhab
itants admitted or to be admitted planters there, and un
to ym and yr heirs forever, freely and absolutely, with
out any lett, molestation, or disturbance, of us, or any
of our kindred or people, or any claiming by, from, or
under us, for evermore, as our heyrs or assigns ; and wee
do promise, upon the finishing ye payment to make full
and ample deeds and writings for the same, according to
law. In witness of the truth hereof, wee ye sd John and
Solomon, alias Horrowanonitt and Wooannaskochu, have
hereunto set our hands and seals, this thirteenth day of
July, 1674. Solomon, alias Woonnasakochu,
Signed, Sealed, and ) seal and mark.
delivered in the V John, alias Hoorrawanwit,
presence of us, ) mark and seal.
Onnamog, his mark, Sagamore of Occonomesett.
Namphow, his mark, sagamore of Wamesett.
Joseph Thatcher, of Chabanakonchoie, his mark.
Nosannowitt, his mark. Noah Wiswall, present.
Full payment rec'd August 20, 1676. D. Gookin.
This Deed acknowledged by the Sagamores, before
Daniel Gookin, Sen. Assist. July 13.
Entered, 9. 2. 83 by Thomas Danforth, R,

history of holden. 65;
second indian deed;
February 12, 1677.
Bee it known.to all men by these presents, yt we, An-~
thony, alias Wunaweshawakum, and Abagail his wife,
only Daughter and Heyr of Pannasunet, late of Quan-
sicamund, deceased ; also .Nannuswane, widdow and rel
ict of the said Pannasuned ; also Sasomett, and Quas-
sawake his wife, sister to the said Pannasunitt, for and
in Qonsideration of full satisfaction in trucking cloth and-,
corn, paid to and received by us, from Daniel Gookin,
Esq. Capt. Thos.. Prentice of Cambr, and' Capt. Daniel-
Henchman of Boston, pd unto us and each of us, have
bargained , and. sold, aliened, enfeoffed, and confirmed,
and by these presents do bargaine, sell, alien, enfeoffe,
and confirm; unto the said Daniel Gookinij Thomas Pren
tice, Daniel Henchman, for ye use of themselves, and all
other their partners and associates y t are and shall be ad
mitted Inhabitants and planters, upon a township granted ,
unto ye sd Daniel Gookin, Tho. Prentice, Daniel Hinch
man, by a General Court of Massachusetts, at a place
between Marlborough and .Brookfield, called by the In
dian Name Q,uansicamond Ponds, conteining ye contents
of eight miles square, with all the lands, woods, meadows,
watercourses, mineralls, or any other matter or thing,
within the said tract which ih naturall right belonged to -
us, or any of us,,, and posses'd of, by the said Pannasu- -
net. Sagamore, or his heirs or kindred wtsoever : To Have
and To Hold all the lands, both woodland and brokenup
lands, and all ye appurtenances, as aforesaid, to ym the
said Daniel Gookin, Thomas Prentice, Daniel Henchman
their heirs and associates, yt shall and may duely and le
gally possess and sett down upon their lands and planta
tion, and to their -heirs, executors, administrators, or as-
sighs, for evermose, and the said Anthony, alias , Wan- -
6*'

66 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
noshanuhannitt, and Abigail his wife, daughter and only
heir to Panasunet, and her mother Nannaswane, and Sa-
suet and his wife. Sister of Panasunet, being all Indians,
and Natives, and Inhabitants,, they and their ancestors,
of that place and tract of land at Quansicamond Ponds,
have good and just naturall right and interest in the said
land, and do freely and absolutely sell and alien all the
premises aforesaid, unto the said persons and their heirs
forever, warranting ye lav/ful sale herein made, for us
our heirs, executors and adiriinisti;ators, or from or by
any person Wtsoever. In witness whereof, we have here
unto set our hands and seals, this sixth day of the 12th
Bio. 1677.,
Signed, Sealed and
delivered in presence
of us,
John Elliott.
Nathaniel Gookin..
Waban, his. mark.
James Speen.
Simon Betoghom. J
This deed acknowledged by all ye subscribers, and
sealed this 6. of Febr. 1677, before me,
Daniel Gookin, Senr. Assist.
Entered, 9. 2. 83. by Tho. Danforth R.

Anthony, Signed and Sealed.
Abagail, Signed and Sealed.
Nanswan, Signed and Sealed.
Sasomet, Signed and Sealed. ,
QtUasonoitj Signed, and Sealed.

[Stee page 23.J
"Here follows an account of the Lotts Drawn for
pitches in the North half part of Worcester, as they were
taken out the Hatt by the Moderator according to vote
as aforesd to each proprietor is as follows — viz : —
Cottel Adam Winthroph 1 Joshua Rice 31
Will Hutehi-nson > . Capt. Prentice 16
upon Ward J ' Thomas Leonard 61
Gates, ufion Miller 65 Jonathn. Marble S

HISTORY OF HOLDEN.

67

Gershom Rice Jun.

72

Wm. Hutchinson )
upon Jonas Rice J

Newton & Britten \

30

29

np Jona. Moore

J

Jn. Haggit

58

Ephraim Rice

71

Elisha Rice

26

Josiah Rice

19

Hapgood upon Miller

63

Daniel Heywood

9
John Smith-
49
Isaac V\ heeler
7
(c
15
Jn. Hubbard upon
Stark
35
CC
62
Jna. Waldo upon
Crosby
66
Deacon Rice >-
upon Gershom Rice )
John Gray
64
96
Jn. Hinchman & Co
11
The Heirs of Danll Childs >
upon Jas. Rice j
18
*'
57
c.
14
Henry Lee
upon James Riee
68
Coll. Smith
51
Butler's Right
67
Capt. Jones
4
Thos. Bynny
53
CC
39
John Gownding & Co
21
Rev. Jn. Gardner
2
Benja. Flagg
36
Ministerial
23
Gershom Rice
46
School
4
Benja. Flagg Jun.
25
Dickney Sergeant's )
23,
Joshua Rice
73
Heirs 5
Jona. Waldo
I
33
Ward
41
upon Mr. Allen.
(c
44
The heirs of Thos
1. Goulding
3
CC
55
Aha. Harding
]; ''
13'
CC
50
upon Danson
Coll Hatch upon Lee
69
Jonathn. Bigelo-
]
37
Moses Leonard
22
upon Danson
James Holding
6
Col. Fitch
20
Hen. Lee upon Hubbard
52
upon Danson
Thos. Palmer Esq. ^
Jn. Dowell
I
42
John Outon and >
60
upon Danson
Cornelius Waldo V
Capt. Haynes
70
CC
10
James Taylor
59
"
28
Thomas Rice,
82
CC
47
Jonas Rice
12
CC
45
CC
33
'C
24
Aaron Adams
17
¦c
54
James Holmes
27
Jn. William Paine
48
Daoll Bigelo
43
Gershom Rice, Miaderator."
fNote B-.-^See page 30.]:
At a General Town meeting held at Worcester on
March, 3d, 1739-40.
At sg,id meeting voted that the Northerly part of ye
Town Cbmonly called North Worcester agreeablie to\ the
68 HISTORY, OF HOLDEN.
pertition line formerly Run be set off a distinct & seprate
Township if it be the pleasur of the grate and General
Court in Consideration of their grate distance from .ye
place of publick \vorship. Attest John Chandler modrater
A True Coppy as Entered & Examined,pr. Jones Rice T Cler.
Worcester, May ye 13th. A. D. 1740.
These may sarty, to yr Honurable General Cburt that
we ye subscribers hearpf. Inhabitants of ye Nor4h part
of Worcester have met togather choosen and appointed
Mr. John, Begloi for us and in.our behalf to caray a Peti
tion to ye Honurable Grate and General Court at their
Sessions in May Instant praying that we may be set off
a distinct and seperate Township according to ye vote
which we have already obtained in ye Town of Wor
cester. Simon Davis William Clark
James Smith Joseph Woolley
Timothy Brown, Jotham Biglo
Abraham Walton , John Child
Samuel Davis William.Candon
James Cowdin-, David Cowdin
Jonathan Level benjamin biglo
Thomas Broad Thomas- MukemuUan
John McConkey Samuel Hubbard
Cyprian Stevens ¦ David Brown
Samuell Clark Joseph Hubbard
James Caldwall Samuel' Heywood
James Gray
To his Excellency Jonathan Belcher Egqr, Captain
General & Governor in chief in, and over. His Majesties

HISTORY OF HOLDEN, 69
Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England.
To the Honourable Mis Majesty's Oouncil & the Honour
able House of Representative, Novr. 21, 1740. The Me
morial of John Bigelo & Cyprian Stevens for themselves
and in behalf of the other inhabitants of the North half
of fhe Town of Worcester humbly sheweth. That the
Town of Worcester at their meeting in March last hav
ing by a vote then passed, signified their free consent, to
dismiss the Inhabitants of the North part of sd Town in
order to their being erected into a Distinct Township if
this Honourable Court should think fit, and your memo
rialists made application accordingly at the Sessions in
May last, and their Petition was not at that time Grant-
ted by the whole Court, but only by a part. Our Cir
cumstances as we humbly apprehend being not fully
known. We therefore beg leave to Inform this Honour
able Court, That since that time. Several persons have
been added to our Number & divers others would have
purchased land & settled with us, in case our petition
had been then granted. Now in as much as our increase
& flourishing have been much retarded for want thereof,
and would be much promoted by our being made a Town,
and the settlement of a Minister with us, in the meeting
house which we have erected, much facilitated, and for
want whereof we undergo great difficultys. We humbly
entreat your Excellency and Honours will now take our
Necessitous case into your wise consideration &be pleas
ed to erect us into a distinct Township ; and your hum
ble memorialists as in duty bound, shall ever pray, &c.
John Biglo,
Cyprian Stevens.
Anno Regni Regis Georgii Secundi decimo quarto.
An Act for erecting the Northerly part of the town of

70 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
Worcester, in the county of Worcester, into a distinct
and separate Township by the name of Holden.
Whereas the inhabitants of the Northerly part of the
town of Worcester, commonly called North Worcester,
iby reason of the great difficulties they labour under, have
addressed this Court to be set off a si^arate anJia'distinct
Township, whereby the inhabitants of said Town have
manifested their consent,
Be it enacted by his Excellency the Governor, Coun
cil and Representatives in General Court assembled, and
by the authority of the same — That the Northerly part
of the Town of Worcester, within the following bounds,
viz : — 'bounding South-easterly on the lines dividing the
North and South Proprieties of said Town, and is known
as the dividing line ; westerly partly on the Town of
Leicester, and partly on the Town of Rutland ; and eas
terly on the Town of Shrewsbury, be and $iereby is set
off, from the Town of Worcester, and erected into a sep
arate and distinct Township by the name of Holden, and
that the inhabitants thereof be and hereby are vested
with all the Powers, Privileges, and Immunities which
the inhabitants of other Towns within this Province, do
and by right ought to enjoy.
Provided nevertheless tha!* the said new Town shall
pay their proportionable part of all such Province and
County taxes as are already assessd upon the Town of
Worcester, in like manner as tho' this act had never been
made.January 2, 1740. This bill having been read three sev
eral times in the House of Represen
tatives, Passed to be enacted.
J. Quincy, Sp.
January 2, 1740. This bill having been read three sev
eral times in the House of Represen-

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 71'
tatives, Passed' to be enacted.
J. Willard, Sec^ry.
January 9, 1740. By his Excellency the Governor, I
consent to the enacting of this bill.
J. Belcher.
In the House ®f Rep'ives, March,26, 174J.
Ordered thai? Mr. John Bigelow a Principal Inhabitant
of a New Town lately erected cut of the Northerly part
of the Town of Worcester in the County of Worcester
be and hereby is authorised' and Impowred to assemble
the Freeholders and other dualifyed Voters there on the-
first Monday of May next in some convenient publick
place in said, Tbwn in order to their chusing a Town-
Clerk and other Town officers for the Year next Ensuing.,
Sent up for concurrence
J. Quincy, Sp'kr.
In Council March 27, 1741 Read & Concur'd
Ji Willard^ See^y.
Consented to J.. Belcher.

[Note C— See page 33.]
FORMATION OF THE FIRST CHURCH IN HOLDEN.
" December 22, 1742."
" The following Churches being present with their
Reverend Pastors and Delegates, viz : — The chh. in Lan
caster, Shrewsbury Worcester and^ Rutland, a church of
Christ this day was gathered here & the Reverend Mr.
Joseph Davis was ordained to the work of the gospel-
Ministry and the PastoraF office and charge of this church. .
" The Rev. Mt). Buckminster began with prayer.
The Rev. Mr. Burr preached from Isaiah 58 : 1,
The Rev. Mr. Prentice gave the charge^ and
The Rev. Mr. Cushingthe righthandof Fellowshipj"'

72 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
" The persons embodied belonged to the following
churches : —
Simon Davis
Joseph Davis
Cyprian Stevens ^ in Rutland.
Samuel Hubbard
David Brown
John Fletcher
William Nickols in Reading.
John Bigelow in Worcester.
Jabez Harrington in Weston.
These produced their letters dismissory and recom-.
mendatory, before embodied."
The following were received at the gathering of the
church : Samuel Pierce, Jotham Bigelow, Samuel Hey
wood, Joseph Hubbard & Amos Heywood.
N. B. These were propounded sometime before."

[Note D. — See page 40.
EXTRACT CHH. RECORDS. "December 21, 1774.
The following churches being present, by their Rev'd.
Pastors and Delegates, viz: The church in Rutland,
Worcester, 1st in Shrewsbury, Paxton, 1st in Dedham,
and 2d in Brookfield, the Rev'd. Joseph Avery was or
dained here to the work of the gospel ministry and to
the pastoral office and charge of this church.
The Rev. Mr. Inman prayed.
The Rev. Mr. Haven preached.*
The Rev. Mr. Maccarty gave ye charge.
The Rev. Mr. Buckminster gave the right hand of fel
lowships

* The Sermon prea«hed by the Rer. Mr. Haven was published'.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN.

73

[Note E.— See page 47.]
FAMILIES, 1773.

CENSUS OF HOLDBN BY
David Winch 5
Elijah Rice 6
Masten Holt 5
Moses Sticking 11
Samuel Grant 6
Job Colborn 7
Wm Nickels 10
John Perry 8
John Obens 2
Abra. How 3
Asa How 7
Elisha Hubbard 7
Elijah Rice, Jun. 6
Peter Hubbard 3
Wm. Harris U
Elisha Mirrick 8
Aaron Newtoij 3
Jeseph Morse 10
Sam'l Estabrookj jun 4
Thos. Grout 5
Andrew Smith II
Dea. Joseph Hubbard 7
Jonas Gale 11
Wm. Marshall 7
Hezekiah Walker 3
Seth Snow 7
Edmund Hall 4
John Winch 9
Josiah Broad, jun 4
John Abbott 12
Josiah Stratton 8
John Wheeler 4
Abel How 3
Henry Taft 9
Benjamin Allen 6
Paul Goodale 5
gam'I. Chaffin 9
Ephraim Smith 6
7

Wm. Raymond 7
Dea. David Fiske 8
Sam'l Heywood 9
James Dods 3
Rd. Flagg 5
Daniel Black 6
Benja. Mead 6
Isaac Bartlett 11
Isaac Chenery 3
Isaac Davis, juii 7
Nathaniel Shephard S
John Gleason 7
Peter Goulden 6
Samuel Hubbard 7
Joseph Kingsbury 6
Noah Haven 3
John Black; 5
Jabez Harrington 11
James Chenery 6
Francis Wilson 4
Jona Howe 6
Ebenezr Melet 5
Joseph Greenwood 5
Samuel Estabrook 8
Josiah Cheney 8
Charles Heywood 13
Amos Heyyvood 9
Israel D^ivis 8
Josiah Broad 7
Saimuel Hubbard jqnr 8
Asa Level 4
Peter Noice 2
Ephraim Holt 5
Bezaleel Fisk 6
Increase Stearns 9
Judah Wright 6.
Joseph Dayis., ; 5
TboBj8a,,B,iflib»lI, 8,

74 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
Stephen White 6 Jeremiah Fuller 5
Jona. Lovell 8 David Perry 5
Moses Wheeler, jun 2 Jesse Allen 5

[Note F.— See page 47.]
" The foUowipg is an account of what cost the Town
of Holden has been at during the present war in part."
70 men the first al4rm at Canibridge, April 19, 1775,
27 men S months at Winter Hill, May, 1775,
12 men 6 weeks at Dotchester, December, 1775,
18 men 2 months at Dotchester, February 1776,
18 men 5 months at New York, July 1776,
3 men 1 year at fhe Northward, 1776,
4 men 5 months at Ticonderoga, July 1776,
4 men 5 months at Boston, July 1776,-
15 men 2 months at New York, September 1776,
15 men 3 months at the Jersies, December 1776,
8 men 8 months at Rhddlsland, upon a Request of the
General Court, April 12,' 1777,
11 men 6 weeks at Bennington, July 1777, ' .
15' men 3 months at Stillwater, September 1777,,
7 men 2 months at Providence, May 17'77, '
20 men 1 month at Foi't Edward, October 1777,
1 man 6 months to Guard Stores at Brookfield, June 1777,
2 men 6 months to Guard Stores at Brookfield, Deo. 1777,
. 9 men 3 months at Rutland as Guards, March 17'!'8,
3 men 6 months at Rutland, July 177S,.
4 men 3 months to Dotchester, Sept 1778,
5 men 9 months to reinforce the continental army, July 1779, 187
4 men 8 months to Peekskill, May 29, 1779;
6 men 9 months to Rhodisland, March 1778,
8 men 6 weeks at Newport, to reinforce Gen. Sullivan, 1778, 24
3 men 6 weeks at Tiver Town, May 1779,
2 men 3 monthjat Rutlandno Guard, Jtiiy 177ft,
2 men 3 monthsat Rutland, January 30, 1779,
5 men 9; monthsat West Point, July 5, '1776,
5 men 2 months at Rhodisland, Sept. 20, 1779,
8 men 3 montlis to Claverick, October 9, 1779,
19 men upon an alarm to Hadley, August 1777,
2 men at Rutland, April 1780,

£ 40

s 0

238

0

26

17

30

0

180

5

103

0

S2

0

30

0

63

0

150

0

64

0

70

0

90

0

28

0

38

0

8

0

12

0

27

0

18

0

17

0

),1S7

10

100

0

50

0

3, 24

0

4

15

4

10

3

0

187

10

10

10

S8

16

26

0

16

0

HISTORY OF HOLDEN.

75

[Note G.T— See page 48.]
The following persons are known to have served in
the Revolutionary War from Holden.
Those names marked with a star served in the Con
tinental army.

*Jeremiah Fuljer
*Peter Partridge
*Ezra Rice
*David Potter
*Moseg Wheeler
*Nathan Wheeler
'''Thomas Heard
?William Flagg
?Increase Stearns
?Andrew Allard
?Thomas Stevens
?John Griffin
?David Brown
?Thomas Kimball
?John^Williams?Samuel Roe
?John Bayley
?Jonathan Bartlett
?Jonathan Flagg
?Simon Peter
?Barzilla Stickney
?William Ebet
?Daniel Perry
?Philip Boston
John Abbott
John Potter
*Artemas Dryden
?Increase Stearns, jr
William Heard
John Dodd

Jabez Metcalf
Johnathan Howe
Joseph Howe
Solomon Parmenter
James Davis, jr
Edmund Davis
Jacob Black
Nathaniel Shephard
Francis Wilson
Samuel Thompson
John Obens
Samuel Flubbard
Isaac Chenery
. Sparrow Crosby
Jonathan Moore
?George Webb
Bezaleel Turner '
Jonathan Nichols
TillalChaffin Solomon Davis
Daniel Grout
?James Potter
?Thomas Davis
?Samuel Grant
?Thomas Wheeler
Aaron Wheeler
Daniel Hinds
Joshua Gale
Simon Stickney
Zillas Stickney

' N. B. This list is not supposed to be complete, as it was made from
tradition.

76 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
[Note H.^See page 54.]
NOTICE OF DANIEL SHAYS.*
" This individual acquired an unenviable notoriety
which imparts some degree of interest to the incidents of
his life. He was born in Hopkinton, in 1747 ; the son
of parents not in affluent circumstances, he worked with
Mr Brinley a respectable farmer of Framingham. The
activity and. energy of his youth, promised at maturity
more desirable elevation than he attained. That his ed
ucation was neglected, is apparent from his official let
ters, bidding defiance alike to government, to grammar,
and good spelling. Just before the revolution, he re
moved to one of the towns beyond the Connecticut river,
and afterwards resided in Pelham. When the war com
menced he ent^ed the army at the age of twenty-eight,
with the rank of Ensign, in Capt Dickinson's company,
in Col. Benjamin Ruggles Woodbridge's regiihent. His
ambition, activity, and the plausible manners covering
the want of acquirements, joined with personal intrepid
ity, obtained promotion, and in 1776, he was appointed
lieutenant in Col. Varnum's regiment. At a time' when
the line peculiarly needed reenforcement, he was detached
on the recruiting service, with the promise of some suit
able reward for the enlistment of fwenty men. For this
purpose he visited his native state, and his unwearied
exertions were crowned with ample success. When the
complement assigned to him was- filled, apian suggested
itself for grasping honor and pay at once. Finding the
pulse of patriotism beat high, and the young men of New
England were ready to devote themselves for their coun
try, he continued his enlistments. Insinuating address
and bold representations, produced impressions of his
? The contents of this note are taken entire, from Lincoln's history of
Worcester, p. 369—371.

HISTORY OF HOtBEN. 77
ability and influence, easily turned to his own advantage,
and by holding out expectations of indulgence to those
who should serve under his command, a company was
raised, on the condition that he should be their captain.
With these men he returned to the camp, where they
were mustered. When the inspector was about to dis
tribute them, to difierent corps. Shays produced the , en
listment papers; pointed to the condition which held
them to. serve under himself alone; and requested the
appointment of Captain. The necessity of the time pre
vented the sacrifice of so. many recruits, and after indig
nant remonstrances, it' was deemed expedient to yield to
his demands. The commission was promised, and is
sued after long delay, in Sept. 1779, to relate back to Jan.
1, 1777. Such is the account tradition gives of his mili
tary rank. The honors, ill won, were not long worn.
He was discharged Oct. 14, 1780, at Newark, ih New
Jersey; from Col. Rufus Putnam's regiment.
The deficiency of honorable sentiment in his mental
constitution, may be inferred from a characteristic inci
dent. Lafayette had presented, in, 1780, to each of the
American officers under his^iminediate command, an ele
gant swoid, Such pledge of regard from, the patriot
chief, a soldier with a spark of generous feeling, would
have ch^'ishedas hiS-: dearest possession, and transmitted
to has posterity as. an, heirloom of inestimable value.
Shays sold the gift of his commander for a few dollars.
After being disbanded, he retired, to Pelham, and lived,
in obscurity. Bankrupt in fortune and in fame, Shays
was ready to embark on the flood of any desperate ad
venture. Without the encTgetifc decision, or enlarged
conceptions, the strong, spirit or the bol(i|daring, which
befit a leader, by some accident, he was elevated to the
command of the insurgents. Of capacity too humble, tok
7*

/8 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
direct the movements of an army in those moments when
the force of talent makes itself felt by triumphant results,
and turns even obstructions into encouragements, he was
weak, vacillating, and irresolute. It was' providential
that the physical , power of the arm of rebellion had so
feeble a head to direct its blow.
With the first shade of adversity, he made indirect
overtures to the agents of government, to abandon his
comrades to their fate, on assurance of perspnar safety :
and when his base propositions were rejected, and prom
ises of indenmity and pardon were offered to his follow
ers, his persuasions induced them to reject the proffered
mercy and retain the arms of hopeless controversy, to
purchase by their sacrifice security for himself.
When the insurrection was crushed, he retired to Ver
mont. After the lapse of a few years, the general of the
rebellion, passed through the streets of Worcester, which
he once entered at the head of an army, and received as
sistance from those whose homes he had threatened with
desolation. At length he removed to. Sparta, in New York. As a
perisioner of the United States, he derived his daily bread
from the government,, whose forces he had encountered
in arms. Declarations filed in the depajrtment of war by
himself,, show that his family consisted of an aged wife,
and that he lived in extreme poverty. He died Sept. 29,
1825, aged 78.*
However much the honor and integrity of Daniel Shays

?He married Nancy Haven, a widow. The schedule of his property in
1820, filed in the pension office, exhibits a condition of almost utter destitu
tion. It is as follows:
1 mare, $25 : 1 old saddle, $2 50: bridle, 50: 1 old cutter, $5.: 1 old
a,xe, 62 1-2 cents: 1 hoe, 62 1-2 cents: 1 table, $3: 3 chairs $1 12< 1-2:
1 old scythe and snath, 1 12 1-2: 1 old pail, 121-2.ceDts: 1 large bible, $1:
amounting to $40 62..

HISTORY OF HOLDEN-.. 79
were qtiestioned, his courage was never disputed. He
was in the battle of Bunker's Hill,, at the capture of Bur-
goyhe, and at the storming of Stoney Point ; was under
Lafayette, and did good service in many bloody encoun
ters. A severe wound, received during the revolution,
was honorary testimonial of intrepidity. When Shep-
ard and himself met at Springfield,, the former addressed
him by the ti*le of general : Shays instantly demanded
an explanation, declaring he claimed no rank but that of
captain, and added laying his hand on his sword, that if
different designation was given', he should consider it
insult, and would, exact immediate satisfaction on, the
spot. An aged inhabitant of Hopkintohj who was school
mate of the rebel captain, states that he wasiborn on the
farmin that to-w^n^ still called tlie. 'Shays, place,' situ
ated on Saddle Hill, about: two miles west' of the meet*-
ing. house ; that he made his home there principally, un
til he removed wiih his father,, to a place beyond Con
necticut river, which, as is supposed, was Great Barring-
ton. The estate where his. early youth was passed, has
long been deserted as a human habitation, and the forest
whieh.has overgrown the forsaken orchard is intersper
sed at regular intervals, with aged apple tiees.
An estimable and respected clergyman relates, that
soon after he began, to preach as a candidate, he was em
ployed; at Pelham ; on the first Sunday of his visit there,
he observed a very well dressed gentleman, with a mili
tary air, enter the meeting-house : immediately every
pew door from the bottom to the top of the aisle was
thrown open, and he was received with the most respect
ful salutations : this distinguished person was Daniel
Shays who. had just^ returned to that town, with the par-

80 HISTORY OF HOLDEN...
don of the government, and lived upon the west side of
the east hill. The next day, Shays called on the cler
gyman, and held long discourse about his labors andsuf-
ferings. He said he had been entirely dbceived in resr
pect to the feelings, of' the people : that he had; received
assurances that if he would collect an hundred men, and
march in any direction, multitudes would flock to his
standard. Relying, on these representations, he began
his march with a. small force, bat found he produced little
sensation and that few joined him r at night, he thought
it necessary to preserve the appearance of military or
ganization and to mount guard, and ordered., a man to
stand sentry; 'no I won't,' was the reply to the com
mander, ' let that man, he ' iS not so sick as I be' ; the
second man refused, desiring him to take another who was
stronger, and the chief of the insurrection found himself
without authority at the head of a tumultuary army;,
A soldier of the rebellion, who had fled from Spring
field to Pelham without stopping and hid his gun under >
the barn floor, ask,ed Shays why he did > not stand, his
ground 1 the reply was, 'you know, if I had, I must
have stood alone.'
The clergyman describes Shays as an agreeable and
intelligent person, and the day he spent with hini as one
of the most interesting of his life.
These particulars have been obligingly communicated
l?y Samuel' B,. Walcottj Esq. of Hopkintpn."

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 81
[Note I.— See Page 55.]
DOCUMENTS FROM THE WORCESTER MAGAZINE.
Mr. Editor, — Yom are desired, by a number of the In
habitants of the Town of Holden, to give the following
^uthentick Papers a place in your next Magazine.
A true and exact Copy, attested by the Town Clerk, of
a LETTER from RUGGLES SPOONER, to the In
habitants of the Town of HOLDEN, viz.
To the Inhabitence of the Town of Holden
Gentlemen •
The Request of a Committee of the Body on the
Ground is as Follows (vis) that this body Right to each
town in This County To Petition to the Governor and
Counsell to Liberate Capt., Shattuck and all the men
Taken by Government on account of the Late Rising of
the People Called R^gulaters and Confined in any of the
Goals in this Common Welth and that the Governor Isue
his Proclamation forthwith that no Person shall bee In
jured or Molisted in Person or Property, or Here after be
taken Molisted or Injured in Consequence of the Late
Rising of the People in stoping Courts in this Common-
welth the Courts of Common Pleas and General Sessions
of the Peas May be suspended untill a rtew Choice of the
General Court Takes Place according to the Constitution
in Consequence of Which all those that are in opposition
to the Present modes of Goverment and the administra
tion of the Same Promis to Remain Peasable and Quiet
in Expectation of having at the Next General Court a
new Election Every Immaganary Grievance Displayed
by the Light of truth of having Every Real Redress
Furthermore that if the Governer Cannot Consistantly
Grant the Prayr of the above Petition that his Excelen-

82 history of HOLDEN.
cy Caul the General! Court to Geather immediatly For
the above Purpose Worcester 7th 1786
Dec ' }
Ruggles Spoone;r ) modarat
We desire that the town may be calld to Geather Imme
diately to Conseder of the above Letter and make Re
turn to head Quarters Which is at Rutland or on their
Way to Westown The above is a true Copy. '
Attest, David Fisk, . Town-Clerk.

In consequence of the foregoing Letter, the Selectmen of
Holden granted u Warrant for calling a meeting of
the Town ; the town met accordingly, and adopted the
following PETITION, viz.
To his Excellency James Bowdoin, Esq, Governour and
Commander in Chief of the Commonwealth of Massa
chusetts, and to the Hon. , the Council, now sitting at
Boston. , , 1 \
The Petition of the town of Holden, regularly assembled
this ISth day of December, 1786, in order to consult
upon the publick good in this distressing day, and to
take into consideration a certain request coming from
a Body of People under the command of Capt. ShaySr
and Capt. Wheeler^
Humbly Sheweth,
That whereas a number of the people in the County
of Worcester, with a number in other counties, have
lately arisen, in order to prevent the sitting of the Court
of Common Pleas and the Court of General Sessions of
the Peace, by force of arms, which method of proceed
ing we view with grief and disapprobation, when other
means more regular and constitutional might have been
taken for a redress of grievances, which we apprehend

HISTORY Of HOLDENlf 83
was their view in rising as abovesaid, and not from a
view to destroy government ; though we confess that
such hostilities, if persisted in, has a direct tendency
thereto ; but now, from a more mature and deliberate
consideration of the matter, we would hope they are
sensible of their errour in being so. hasty in their pro
ceedings, and we trust now would be glad, if they .could
have an opportunity therefor^ to consult the good of this
Commonwealth and the majority of the people, and for
the future proceed in a more legal and constitutional
way ; Therefore your Petitioners, from- a sense of loyal
ty, peace and go'dd order. Humbly Pray, that the follow
ing request may be granted, viz'. That all those men that
have been taken by government, in consequence of the
late risings of the people, and committed to goal, may 1)0
liberated, and that a Proclamation be immediately issued,
that no man shall be molested in person or property in
consequence of the late rising of the people as aforesaid,
so long as they shall remain peaceable and quiet ; and
likewise that the Courts of Common Pleas and the Courts
of General Sessions of the "Peace, in the counties of
Worcester, Berkshire, and Hampshire, may be suspended
until June next, and in order for this we humbly desire
that your Excellency and your Honours would call the
General Court together immediately. Hoping all pub
lick matters may be over-ruled for the weal and pros
perity of this Commonwealth, your Petitioners as in duty-
bound shall ever pray.
A true Copy. Attest, David Fisk, Town-Clerk.
This Petition to be presented by Mr. Aaron Broad, ac«.
cording to the vote of the town.
. Attest, David Fisk, Towi^-Clerk., "

84 history of holden.
Asa Vote was obtained for adopting the foregoing Pe--
tition, the following PROTEST was m^de, viz.
We the subscribers are fully sensible of the folly and
impropriety of joining in a Petition to the Governour and
Council, agreeably to the request of a number of - per
sons, styling themselves a Committee on the Ground, and,
dated at Worcester, 7th. December, 1786, signed Ruggles
Spooner, Moderator, for the , purpose of praying for an
act of pardon for those people who have appeared in
arms since the act of indemnity, and also praying for
the releasment of those persons confined in prison for
treasonable acts against the government of the Common
wealth : — Because that we apprehend that the Gover
nour and Council have no right, without the legislative
body, to make any act of indemnity for any treason done
and committed against the government : — And we are
not willing, as being citizens of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, to ask for what we know the Governour
and Council cannot grant by that Constitution of Gov
ernment which has been established by the generaLcon-
sent of the people. As for the releasement of those per
sons who have been treasonably guilty of rising in arms,
and are now imprisoned for their overt acts, we cannot
conceive that we ought to interfere or petition for their
releasement, as they have acted with their eyes open,
after the government had pardoned their first offence :
Therefore we protest against any doings of this town in
the matter, or paying any regard to the request of the
aforesaid Committee. And as to that part which requests
the town to petition the Governour to call the Assembly
together, we cannot assent to it, believing him to be the
most competent judge of the necessity of convening the
General Court.
John Child, John Abbott,

history of holden. 85
Richard Flagg, Reuben Paddock,
Samuel Heywood, Noah Haven,
Amos Heywood, Samuel Chickering,
Paul Goodale; James Davis.
Isaiah Brown,
December 28, 1786.
A true Copy. Attest, David Fisk, Town-Clerk.

We whose names are under written, inhabitants of the
town of Holden, impressed with a sense of our duty, as
members of society, and aware that in a crisis of dan
ger, no nerve should be left unexerted to promote and
secure the public weal, and being deeply affected with
those violent measures, with which this State has been
agitated, feel ourselves called upon, explicitly to declare
our sentiments, and bear our honest and faithful testi
mony against those violent and unwarrantable insurrec
tions against government,^ which have thrown the whole
State into confusion, and threatens even the miseries and
horrors of a civil war : — We now therefore declare our
utter and hearty disapprobation of the conduct of those
who have appeared in arms of late, to obstruct, by force,
the sitting of the Courts of justice in this State, and that
it may be evident that we bear this testimony, not with
out great and sufficient cause, we give the following
reasons,, that those insurrections were unnecessary and
unreasonable, without any real or supposed object to jus
tify them, tending in their nature to subvert all order
and peace in the community, and to rob it of that which
is its beauty, strength, and glory — to cut the sinews of
government, to sap the foundation of our liberty, and to
increase those burdens already complained of by some
as intolerable, and to plunge the insurgents themselves,
in a labyrinth of woe. — We shall now endeavour to sup-
8

86 history of holden.
port what is here advanced, and then shall be able to
make our appeal to the world, as to the justice of our
present testimony. That the late insurrections Were un
necessary, is suffleiently evident from this— v?henever
any object can be obtained without recourse to arms,
then the rising with arms is unnecessary, and if, for in
stance, it was the evideht declared sense of the major
part of the people, that there should be an alteration, or
an abolition, of any court of justice, it might be effected
ill a constitutional way ; the same may be said of any
thing that is regarded as an evil, and which is in the
power of the general assembly to remove — therefore it is
unnecessary to rise in armis to accomplish any thing the
people at large wish to effect, and which is consistent
with the constitution they have freely established : The
annual election of the Various branches of the legislative
body, by the people, is a sufficient proof of this. The
unreasonableness of the late attack on government, is
conclusively argued thus — what has been established by
the general consent of the people, for the regular distri
bution of justice, it is reasonable should be supported
and defended, until the people, taught by experience it is
capable of being altered for the better, have made the
necessary reform ; and it is impossible in the nature of
things, that it should be reasonable to pull down by
force, what ought in reason to be defended ; for reason
never contradicts, or is. opposed to itself — We further
observe, that to justify a body of people for rising in
arms, the evil to be removed ought to be very great —
and for the removal of which, all other methods of re
dress, are upon trial, found ineffectual ; — and this can
never with truth be asserted by the insurgents, as to the
evils they pretend to oppose — and that the late illegal
attack on government, is subversive of order and peace

HISTORY or HOLDEN. 87
in the community, may sufficiently appear on a mo
ment's reflection ; for if one, two, or three hundred men,
in one part of the State, may fly to arms, to destroy
what is not agreeable to their minds, the same number
in another part may plead the same reason, and the force
(of example in others,- to justify them in rising against
what they dislike, and so by this means, the State be
kept in a perpetual alarm, and peace and order be anni
hilated among them. We now further remark, that inu--
tual benevolence, harmonizing in measures for the pub
lick good, and mutual confidence, is the ornament and
strength of society ; but the late violences against gov
ernment, have produced the most wretched disaffection
between neighbor and neighbor, and in some instances,
no doubt, between the nearest relations and connexions
in life — have confounded every thing like harmony for
the publick good — given a pernicious stab to reciprocal
confidence in, one another, and that these violences tend
to cut the nerves of government is no less evident ; they
are in fact declaring those in authority, to be enemies to
the publick good ; if- not, why in arms against them 1
So far therefore as it has its natural impression on the
minds of the people, it instils and rivets the most wretch-.
ed prejudices against them — every thing that is said
against them is believed — everything almost that they
do, is excepted against, without the ceremony of enquir-.
ing into the reasons of it ; opposition to them, is estimated
rather as a virtue than a vice, and exertions to support
government are deemed the strides of tyranny-^we may
instance here, the exertions of our worthy Governour to
suppress the opposition to the regular course of justice ;
this has produced prejudices against him in many, and
bitter invectives from some ; though he was bound by
solemn oath to defend the courts of justice, and would

88 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
have betrayed the trust reposed in him as chief magis
trate, if he had taken no measures to this end : It is not
to the purpose here, to assert that the courts ought to be
abolished ; for the Governour, as such, has no right to
withhold his support to the laws of the State, though he
himself or many others apprehend they may be altered
for the better, until the alteration is actually made by
legal authority ; for if he may cease to defend one branch
of the government, because of the disaffection of some,
he may by the same rule cease to defend another part,
for the clamours of others, and so government must sink
immediately ; it is clear therefore that what we testify
against, tends to destroy the very sinews of government
— nor is it difficult to discern its tendency to sap the
foundations of our present liberties. — There is no com
munity under Heaven, where the liberty of the people
at large is more fully in their own hands. If a govern
ment so popular should be destroyed by usurpation, or
in other words, by the insurgents, this must naturally
issue in a more tyrannical mode of government — more
over it would be wisdom to, remember, that if men of
ability and property in the State, should be worn down
by ineffectual exertions to support the present mode of
government, by reason of such insurrections, it will not
be strange, if in a future day they should turn and bend
all their exertions to bring about a government less free
and popular. — The next thing to be supported, will per
haps, particularly apply to our feelings in general, that
the hostile measures of the insurgents, tend to increase
the burdens already complained of — These measures
discharge no debts, pay no taxes, they produce cost on
the part of government for its support, and on the part
of the opposition there is loss of time and treasure : — If
they do not overthrow the present government, their

HISTORY OF HOLDEN, 8.9l
burdens will be increased, and if they do, their burdens
will be more augmented still, by the time another is
established — so let things turn as they may, they are to
expect an increase of burdens. If it should he replied,
that in this way it is expected to remove some things,
that are impoverishing, to this it is answered, that no
thing in this way can be removed that is a,n evil, which
could not be without this accumulation of cost. We
now add as to the insurgents plunging themselves in a
labyrinth of woe — that if they persevere until the sword
decides the controversy, and should they triumph by the
dint of arms, they will have the piercing reflection, that
many of their friends as well as others are sacrificed to,
save a comparatively small ex;pence^-their property
wasted, lost to a great degree, and will experience the
most insuperable difficulties, in establishing a govern
ment that will preserve them from internal distraction,,
or foreign invasion ; but when we mention their triumph
in arms, we esteem an expectation of it as merely vision-.
ary, and such an event as is contrary to all human pro
bability. If called into the field of war, where are their
resources'} Money sufficient to carry on a war they
have not ; no nation on earth, or individuals of property
Avould lend them this, in the present unorganized state,
as there would be almost a moral certainty that they
would loose it. If they made paper money, in their
present state, they could give it no credit by any thing
but the point of the bayonet, and this is no credit at all.
They have no system of government to give directions
and force to their mpvements^rare greatly deficient in
their apparatus fbr war ;^-a most formidable force from
this, and if need be from the other States, far better pre^
pared than themselves, they would have to combat ; the
scorn and contempt of foreigners they might e?;pfic1; ios.
8*

90 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
their folly and impolicy ; and what is more than all the
rest, the frowns of Heaven, as the guilty cause of blood
shed and miseries, without any thing to justify their hos
tilities ; so that they might soon expect to lie at the mer
cy of those, whose resentments would be whetted against
them, by the most cruel injuries and insults. As these
insurrections therefore, are so totally wrong, impolitick,
and of such pernicious tendency, we esteem ourselves as
bound in duty, to use our influence to suppress, and pre- -
vent them if possible ; — and as yet, we hope that the
most tragical events to which they tend, may be pre
vented. As to the request from a body of merit under
arms, communicated to this town, waving any observa
tions on what is contained therein, we regard it as im
politick, and imreasonable to grant it — and apprehend a
oomplianoe therewith, would be dishonourary and preju
dicial to the town ; at the same time declare^ that we
have full confidence, that if the insurgents will now lay
down their arms, and throw themselves on the clemency
of government, they will experience this to the utmost
extent of what humanity shall dictate, or the safety and
honour of the State will admit of, even now when they
stand chargeable with having insulted clemency itself—
But as to the small number that have joined that body
from this town, we declare our sincere sorrow for them,
charitably believe they were drawn into it, by the insti
gation of designing men, and for the waht of knowing
the tendency of such measures, and that they have not
the destruction of government in contemplation — that in
concert with others, they have practically levelled a
blow at the very foundation of it ; and if they will now
assure the town of a conviction of their errour, and their
fixed resolution to renounce such measures, it will not
only afford us the sincerest pleasure, but induce us, if

HISTORY OF HOLDEN.

91

desired, to use our friendly influence, that they may ex
perience the clemency of government, and share in com
mon with us, the blessings and protection of good gov
ernment. We close with expressing our fervent wishes,
that every unnecessary burden may be prevented, and
every necessary one speedily lightened ; that benevolence
friendship, and union, may pervade this and every State
in the union ; that peace and tranquility may be restored
where interrupted— good government supported, and jus
tice executed in them — that the smiles, of propitious
Heaven may attend them, and the latest posterity may
rejoice in a fair inheritance, transmitted to them through
succeeding generations.

John Child,
Richard Flagg,
Samuel Heyu^ood,
Amos Heyvjood,
Reuben Paddock,
James Davis,
Isaiah Brown,
Thomas Knowles,
John Abbott,
Paul Goodale,
Samuel Chickering^
John Dods,
George Webb,
Jonas Hubbard,
John Holden,

Israel Davis, jun.
Edmund Hall,
Asa Greenwood,
James Dods,
Joseph Hubbard;
Joseph Hubbard, jv/n.
Tilly Hubbard,
Samuel Hubbard,
Elnathan Davis,
Sam. HeyvMod, jun.
Samuel Darnon,
Benjamin Flagg,
Lemuel Abbott,
Aaron Newell,
Abel Howe.

APPENDIX

Municipal Officers — Congregational Church — Pastors
and Deacons, Cong, church — Baptist Church — Pas
tors, Bap. CHURCH — Gentlemkn's and Ladies' Mission
ary Society — Judah Wright — Society for Detecting
Theives — Topography — Justices — Lawyer — College
Graduates — -Missionaries — Post Masters — Physicians
— Masonry — Military Affairs — Schools — Population
— Valuations — Manufactures — Things in general.

MUNICIPAL OFFICERS. . . . 1741—1841.

Cyprian Stevens,
Samuel Heywood,
Samuel Peirce,
Joseph Greenwood,
Israel Davis,
John Childs, jr.,
David Fiske,
Noah Haven,
John Dodd,
William Dodd,
Paul Davis,
Paul Davis, jr.,

TOWN clerks.
1741—46.
1747—51.1752, 54—57.
1753. 1758—74, 78—81.
1775—82.
1783—86, 88, 89.
1787.
1790—1801. 1802. 1803—20.1821—41.

Simon Davis,

selectmen. 1741—43.

94 history of holden.
John Biglo, 1741—46, 48—51, 55, 66, 61.
Cyprian Stevens, 1741, 44 — 46.
Samuel Thompson, 1742, 54.
Samuel Peirce, 1743, 46, 48—52, 56—58.
Samuel Heywood, 1744, 48—51, 59, 60, 64, 66.
David Brown, 1745.
Samuel Hubbard, 1747, 53—55, 57, 62, 64.
Jonathan Lovell, 1747, 52, 59, 60.
William Nichols, 1747.
Richard Flagg, 1752—58, 60, 63, 79, 80.
Israel Davis, 1753—55, 58—60, 63—71.
Joseph Hubbard, 1753—55, 61, 62, 64—67, 72, 73.
Joseph Greenwood, 1753, 61.
James Boyd, 1756 — 58.
Amos Heywood, 1756, 57, 62, 63, 80.
John Child, 1758, 62—67, 70—76.
Benjamin Howard, 1759.
Bezaleel Fiske, 1759, 60.
Jonathan Rice, 1761, 67—71, 74—76.
David Fiske, 1761, 62, 69—71, 77, 78, 83. •
Jonathan Wheeler, 1763, 72.
Isaac Smith, 1765.
Benjamin Mead, 1765—71, 73—75, 79.
Paul Raymond, . 1768, 69, 73—77.
Ignatius Goulding, 1768.
Andrew Smith, 1772.
James Davis, 1772—79, 84.
Moses Smith, 1776—78, 80.
John Child, jr. 1777.
Jason Gleason, 1778, 79, 88.
John Perry, 1778—81.
Samuel Thompson, 1780, 82, 83.
EUsha Hubbard, 1781—83, 86, 87.
Noah Haven, 1781, 83.

history of holden.

95

Francis Wilson,
John Child,

1781, 87.
1782, 83.

William Nichols,
Josiah Stratton,

1782.1782, 88 91.

Ebenezer Estabrook,
Henry Taft,
Israel Davis, jr.
Ehsha Myrick,
Nathan Harrington,

1784—86, 88, 90, 91, 94, 98 1803.
1784, 89—91.
1784^87. 1784, 85.
1785.

Isaac Chenery,
John Dodd,
Samuel Hubbard,

1785, -86, 88, 89.
1786, 94—97.
1787, 92—95, 98—1801.

Isaiah Brown,

1787.

John Davis,

1789, 90 97.

David Smith,

1789—97.

George Webb,

1792, 93.

Samuel Damon,

1792—97.

William Drury,
Peter Hubbard,

1795—97, 1801, 05.
1798 1800.

Lemuel Abbott,

1798—1806.

Elnathan Davis,

1798, 1802—04.

James Dodd,

1799, 1800.

Joseph Daniels,
Tilla Chaffin,
Asa Wheeler,

1801, 03.
1804—08.
1804—09.

Ethan Davis,,

1805 17.

Heman Richardsoilj

1806—11,

Samuel Heywood,
Asa Greenwood,

1807—11.
1809 18.

Lemuel Davis,

1810—14.

John Chaffin,

1812—16.

Abner Perry,
Silas Flagg,

1812 15, 20—36.
1815, 17—26.

96 history of holden.

Paul Davis, jr.

1816—19.

Samuel Damon,

1816—21,

27-

-31, 36.

James Bailey,

1818, 19.

Daniel Knowlton,
1819, 20.
John Davis,
1820, 21.
James Estabrook,
1821—24.
William Metcalf,
1822—26,
30.
Samuel Foster,
1822—25.
William Flagg,
1825—28.
Thomas I. Davis,
1826, 34-
-31,
40, 41.
Thomas Howe,
1827—29,
31,
32, 34, 35,
Samuel W. Hubbard,
1827—29.
Farnum White,
1822—31.
Charles Chaffin,
1829—35,
41.
George Flagg,
1830 33,
40,
41.
Tilla Chaffin, jr.
1831, 33.
John Lovell,
1832, 34.
John F. Smith,
1832.
Dennis Davis,
1833.
Barney Howe,
1833, 37.
Stillman Estabrook,
1834—36.
John M. Goodale,
1835, 36.
Joel Walker,
1836, 37.
Paul Davis,
1837, 38.
Willis Smith,
1837—39.
Jacob Howard,
1837.
Samuel D. Greenwood,
1837 40.
Jonathan Chaffin,
1837—39.
John Jepherson,
1838.
Lyman Bryant,
1839, 40.
James Winch,
1839, 40.
James S. Moore,
1841.
John Richardson,
1841.
history of holden. 9r
ASSESSORS.
Samuel Clark, 1741.
Samuel Pierce, 1741, 43, 46, 48—52, 56—58.
Samuel Heywood, 1741, 44, 48—51, 59.
Simon Davis, 1742.
John Biglo, 1742, 44—46, 48—51, 55, 56.
Samuel Thompson, 1742, 54.
William Nichols, 1843, 47.
Cyprian Stevens, 1743—46.
David Brown, 1745.
Samuel Hubbard, 1747, 53—55.
Jonathan Lovell, 1747, 52.
Richard Flagg, 1752—58, 60, 61—64
Israel Davis, 1753—55, 59, 60, 63.
Joseph Hubbard, 1753—55.
Joseph Greenwood, 1753, 61, 62, 65, 66.
James Boyd, 1756, 58.
Amos Heywood, 1756, 57, 61, 62, 64—67, 69—71, 80.
Bezaleel Fiske, 1759, 60.
Isaac Bellows, 1762, 64, 68.
Jonathan Wheeler, 1763.
Benjamin Mead, 1765, 68.
¦John Child, jr. 1766—69, 75—77, 82.
David Fiske, 1767, 69—71, 77, 78, 83—85, 87, 88,
Jonathan Rice, 1770, 71.
James DaVis, 1772—76, 79, 82, 84, 1806.
Ignatius Goulding, 1772, 73.
Andrew Smith, 1772—74.
Elisha Hubbard, 1774—78, 81-=-83, 86, 87, 89, 90, 1801--S
Isaac Chenery-) 1778.
Noah Haven, 1779, 81, 83, 84, 91, 92.
Francis Wilson, 1779.
Ebenezer Estabrodk, 1780.
9

98 HISTORlr OF HOLDEN.

Paul Goodell,

1780, 81, 87.

Isaiah Brown,

1785, 86.

John Dodd,

1785,-1800.

Paul Davis,

1788—1800.

Elijah Rice, jr.

1788.

John Davis,

1789.

George Webb,

1783,

William Drury,

1794—1805, 07—17, 23, 34.

James Dodd,

1801—1803.

David Smith,

1804, 05.

Jonathan Flagg,

1806 10.

Asa Greenwood,

1806—17.

Lemuel Davis,

1811—14.

Ebenezer Estabrook,

1815, 22—25,-27.

Paul Davis, jr.

1818, 22—33, 35—41.

Samuel Damon,

1818, 22—24, 35, 36.

Ethan Davis,

1819—21.

Abner Perry,

1819—21.

Silas Flagg,

1825—33.

William Metcalf,

1828, 29.

Dennis Davis,

1830—33.

William Flagg,

1834.

Seth White,

1834.

Willis Smith,

1834—36.

Thomas J. DaviSj

1837, 40,

David Boyden,

1837, 38.

Ira Broad,

1838, 41.

Joel Walker,

1839, 40.

John Richardson,

1839.

Samuel D. Greenwood,

1841,

TbWN TREASURERS.
William Nichols, 1741, 43, 45,

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 99
John Biglo, 1742, 50.
Samuel Thompson, 1744.
Samuel Heywood, 1746—49.
Israel Davis, 1751, 56—58.
Joseph Hubbard, 1752—55.
Jonathan Lovell,. 1759.
Bezaleel Fiske, 1760, 61.
Samuel Hubbard, 1762—72.
Nathan Harrington, 1773—83.
James Davis, 1784 — 91.
Ehsha Hubbard,. 1792—1803.
Elnathan Davis, 1804.
Ethan Davis 1805, 06, 08—26,
Samuel Damon, 1827—39.
Paul Davis, 1840, 41,
delegates to PROVINCIAL CONGRESS.
" Jan'y. 3, 1775— John Child chosen delegate to a Provin--
cial Congress, to be held at Cambridge,, the 1st day of
. Feb'y. next."
"May 20, 1775— John Child chosen to Represent the
Town in the Provincial Congress, to be held at Water
Town the 31st instant."
" July 5, 1775 — John Child chosen to Represent the
Town in the Great and General Court, at Water Town
the 19th instant."'
" Oct. 3d, 1776 — James Davis chosen to the Great and
General Court at Water Town, Oct. 9, 1776."
" May 19, 1777 — James Davis chosen to the Great an^
General Court at Boston, May 28th."
"August 2d, 1777 — Richard Flagg chosen to sit in Con
vention at Cambridge, to form a Constitution."

100 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
REPRESENTATIVES SINCE 1780.

John Child, jr.

1780, 82, 83, 90.

Rev. Joseph Davis,

1781,

Israel Davis, jr.

1786.

Josiah Stratton,

1787.

John Dodd,

1792, 93, 95, 96, 98, 1800, 01

William Drury,

1802, 05—13, 20.

Elnathan Davis,

1803, 04.

Ebenezer Estabrook

1814—16, 19.

Ethan Davis,

1817, 21, 26.

Samuel Damon,

1823, 24, 31—33.

Silas Flagg,

1828, 29, 35, 38, 39.

Asa Broad,

1830, 31.

Charles Chaffin,,

1832—34.

Paul Davis,

1834—36.

John Chaffin,

1831.

Willis Smith,

1837.

Tilla Chaffin,

1838, 39.

John Richardson,

1840.

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
This was the only religious society in town for nearly
seventy years. The earlier settlers were orthodox con-
gregationalists, so far as their religious tenets can be as
certained from ancient records or tradition.
Organization of the first chh. and settlement of first
minister — See Address, page 23, 33, and notes, p. 71.
The " Halfway Covenant" system existed from the
foundation of the church, until 1809. This was an ar
rangement by which such parents as were not in com
munion with the church might enjoy the privilege of

HISTORY OF HOLDBN. 101
having their children baptized, " by owning the cove^
nant." ^
COVENANT.
We whose names are hereunto subscribed, inhabitants of Holden, appre>-
bending ourselves oalled by God, into ttie church-state of the gospel,
- Do first of all confess ourselves unworthy to be so highly favored of the
Lord, and admire his free and rich grace which calls us hereunto ; and then,
with. humble reliance and entire dependance on the assistance of his grace
and Holy Spirit therein promised for them; that, in a sense of their own in
ability to do any good thing,, do humbly wait upon him for all; we do
thanUfully lay hold on his covenant, and. solemnly enter into covenant with
God and one another according to God.
We declare our serious belief of the christian religion as contained ini
the saored scriptures, acknowledging them to contain the whole revealed--
will of Godconoerning our Faith and Practice, heartily resolving to conforna
our lives, to the rules of that holy religion as long as we live.
We give up ourselves to the Lord Jehovah, the Father, the Son,, and the
Holy Ghost, the onlv true and living. God, and avouch, him this day to be
our God, and our portion forever.
We give up ourselves to the blessed Jesus, who is the Lord Jehovah, and
adhere to him as the Head of his People in the covenant pf God, and rely
upon him as our Prophet, our Priest and our King, to bring us unto eternal
blessedness. We acknowledge pur everlasting and indispensable obligation to glorify.
God, in all the dirties of a Godly, sober, and righteous life; and' particularly
in the duties of a church-state, and a body of people associated for an obe
dience to him in all the ordinances of the gospel, and we thereupon depend'
upon lils.gracious assistance for our faithful discharge o£ the duties inctrm-.
bent upon us.
We engage, with dependence on his promised grace and spirit, tO' walk tor
gether as a church of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the Faith and order of the gos
pel, so far as we shall have the same revealedunto us, conscientiously atten
ding the worship of God, in praying to him, singing his praises, giving reve
rent attention, to his word, read and preached according to his. institutions,.
the Sacraments of the New Testament, the discipline of his Kingdom, and;
all his holy institutions, in connexion one with another, and wafchfully avoid
ing all sinful stumbling-blocks and contentions, as becomes the Lord's peo<.
pie in covenant with him.
At. the same time, we do also present our offspring with us nnto the Loc^

102 mSTORY OF HOLDEN.
purposing with his help, to do our part in the method of a religious edbca:-
tion, that they may be the Lord's.
And all this we do, flying to the Blood of the Everlasting Covenant for
pardon of our many errors, and praying that the glorious Lord'- Jesus, who
ia the great shepherd, would prepare and strengthen us for every gopd wprk,.
to do his will, working in us that which shaU be well pleasing to him, to-
whom be glory forever and ever. .3men.
During the period that this system prevailed, 119 per
sons owned the covenant. December 18, 1809, the follow
ing vote was passed, "That the method of owning the
covenant as practiced in this church, should be laid aside,
none hereafter to enjoy the privilege of Baptism for their
children,. when neither of the parents are in full commu
nion ; with this exception, that those who have already
owned the covenant should not be cut off from the priv
ilege they have possessed heretofore."
From near this period, a more cautions and rigid sys
tem was adopted respecting the admission of persons into
the church.
No articles of Faith had hitherto been adopted. Janu
ary 4th, 1811, it was voted to have, a confession of Faith,
and unanimously to accept of one drawn up by the Pas
tor, [Rev. Mr. Avery.] But strange as its may appear,
it was not recorded, and no trace of it can now be found. >
The year 1809 was distinguished fer the first general
revival of religion. The work extended its. influence to
both societies. Tradition reports that it commenced
among the Baptists living in the southwest part of the
town. About 70 persons, by profession united with the
Cong. Church. The next general revival occurred 1817,
when morfe than 80 united with the church.
The Rev. Horatio Bardwell was installed as the junior
Pastor of the church, Oct. 22, 1823.
The following minutes are copied from the records of

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 103
a church-meeting held Jan. 3d,. 1824 : — " As no copy of
the articles of Faith w'hich this church have received
can be found — Toted that the Pastor be requested to pre
pare such articles as he shall judge expedient; also, that
he revise the form of church- covenant, and present a
copy of each at the next church-meeting, for the consid-
ation of the church, and for their adoption should they
approve." June of the same year, "at a full meeting of the
churqh both female and male, the ten articles of Faith,
and the form of covenant were harmoniously adopted —
Articles of Faith and Form of Covenant adopted by the
Congregational Church in Holden, June, 1824.
ARTICLES OF FAITH.
1. V^'E believe that there is but one God, the Creator, Preserver, and
moral Governor of the universe; a Being of infinite power, wisdom, justice,
goodoess, and truth; the self-existent and immutable fountain of goodness.
2. We believe that the scriptures of the Old and New Testament were
given by inspiration of God; that they are profitable for doctrine, for correc
tion, for reproof, and for instruction in righteousness; and that they are our
only rule of doctrinal belief and religious practice.
3. We believe that the scriptures teach, that the mode of divine exis
tence is such, as lays a foundation for the threefold distinction. Father, Son,
and Holy Ghost; and that these three arc oire in essence, and equal in power
and glory.
4. We believe that God at first created man in a state of moral rectitude;
that he voluntarily disobeyed the law of his Maker, and thereby fell into a
state of sin and death; and that, in consequence of this first apostacy, the
hearts of all men are by nature. entirely destitute of holiness: and so far as
they are capable of moral action, they are in a slate ef positive disafiection
with the law, character, and government of God.
5. We believe that Jesus Christ, by his obedience, sufferings and death,
-made atonement fer sin; that he is the only Redeemer of sinners; and that
all those who are saved will be wholly indebted to the grace and mercy of
God, for their salvation.
6. We believe that although the iavitation of the gospel is such, that

104 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
whosoever will may come and take of the. water of life freely, yet the
wickedness of the human heart is such, that no>maii) wjll come to Christ,
except the Father draw him.
7. We believe that those who embrace Christ by a living faith, will never
finally perish ; but in fulfilment of God's eternal purpose of grace, by which
they were chosen in Christ, before the foundation of the world. He will ena
ble them to persevere to the end.
S. We believe that there will be a general resurrection of the bodies
both of the just and of the unjust; that all must appear before the judgment-
seat of Christ, to receive a just and final sentence of retribution, according
to the deeds done in the body; and jhat- at this day oP judgment, the state
of all will be unalterably fixed; and that the happiness of the righteous and
the punishment of the wicked will be endless.
9. We believe that Christ has a visible Church in the world, into which,
none in the sight of Giod but real believer^, and, none in. the sight of man
but visible, have a right of admission.
10. We believe that the Sacraments of the New Testament are Baptism
and Lord's Supper; and that visible believers only have a right of admission
to the Lord's Supper ; and that they and their households are the only proper
subjects to whom baptism is to be administered,.

COVENANT.
You db now, in the-p-resence oPGod and roan, avouch theLordJehovah,
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, to be your God — the object of your supreme
love, and your portion forever. You cordially acknowledge the Lord Jesus
Christ as your only Savior, and the Holy Spirit as your Sanctifier, Comforter
and Guide. You humbly and cheerfniliy devote yourself to God, in the
covenant, of grace. You consecrate yourself and all yoa possess to his ser
vice and glory ; and, through the help of divine grace, you promise that you
will deny all ungodliness and every worldly lust.— that you will live soberly,
righteously and godly, even unto death.
You do now cordially join yourself to this'Church of Christ, engaging to
submit to its discipline, and-to altendon its worship and ordinances, accor
ding to-tbe ruies of the gospel ;- and that yon will walk with its members in
Christian love, watchfulness andpurity. Thus you covenantj promise, and
engage. We do now, as a Church oflhe LordJesus-Christ, receive yon into our
communion, and promise to watch over you watll Christian tenderness
and affectipn^ever trealing you in love, as a member of the bpdy of Christ.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN, 105
This we do, imploring pf the great Shepherd pf Israel, that bplh we and ypu
may have wisdom and grace to be faithful in his covenant, and glorify him
with that holiness of life which becomes his house forever. — Amen.

In 1825, an unusual attention was paid to religion,
and about 30 joined the church.
The autumn of 1829, and beginning of 1830, 'was mark
ed by a most extensive and powerful work of grace.
Both societies shared its blessed influence. About 150
united with the Cong. Church.
In 1831, there was a revival bringing about 20 into
the church. The Spring of 1834, some families in the
north part of the town, and the adjoining part of Prince
ton, were unusually awakened to the subject of religion.
During the autumn of 1835, there was uncommon reli
gious interest, as the results of which, about twenty uni
ted with the church. In the Spring of 1838, about
twenty expressed a hope of having experienced a saving
change, most of whom have since united with the church.
The winter of 1840-41, was greatly distinguished for a
spirit of engagedness on the part of professors, and of
anxious Inquiry among persons not members of the
church. Thirty have already united with the church,
and it is believed many more will feel it to be their duty
and privilege to enter into solemn e-ovenant with God.
The present number belonging to the ohurch is about
four hundred and thirty, nearly two-thirds of whom
have been received within twelve years. There is but
a single member of the church now living whose mem
bership commenced last century. This individual is
Mrs. Mary Avery, the wife of the second pastor of this
church.. Her connectiou commenced in 1776.

106 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
PASTORS OF THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
Rev. Joseph Davis. {See Address.)
The following inscription is copied from his grave-stone:
This monument is erected in
memory cf the Revd JOSEPH DAVIS,
who was born at Concord July 16
1720, ordained first Pastor of
the Church in Holden Deer 22d 1742,
where he labored many years in
the work of Gospel Ministry.
He was the man of science and a
zealous, pungent Preacher. The affec
tionate husband. The tender parent.
The kind neighbor, and the cordial
friend. Died March 4th 1779."
A strong and animated faith in the truth
of the gospel was the great solace and
anchor of bis soul.
Rev. Joseph Avery. {See Address.)
The following inscription is copied from his grave-stone:
SACRCiD
to the memory of
the Revd JOSEPH AVERY,
who was born at Dedham
A. D. 1751.
GRADUATED
at Harvard University 1771.
ORDArNED
Pastor of the Church of Christ
in Holden Deer 1774.
With sweetness of dispositipa
and ministerial faithfulness
he united
an uncpmmon share of prudence
and wisdom.
After near fifty years
pf laborious service as a minister
of the gospel in this place, he
rested from his labors
March 5, 1&24,
Aged 72 years.
"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord,"
Rev. Horatio Bardwele. He was born at Belcher-
town, Nov. 3, 1788. A. M.. Dart. Coll. 1814. Andover
Theo. Sem. 1814. Missionary in India under the Amer-

HISTORY OF HOLDEN,

107

ican Board six years. Installed as Junior Pastor of this
church Oct. 22, 1823, Dismissed, Spring, 1833, At
present Pastor of the Congregational Church in Oxford,
Rev. William P. Paine, He was born at Ashfield, Aug.
1, 1802. Entered Am. Coll. 1823. A. B. 1827 and A. M.
1830. Tutor at Amherst College one year, 1830. Grad
uated at Andover Theo. Sem. 1832. Settled in Holden
Oct. 24, 1833,
Married to Miss Sarah Mack, of Plainfield, Mass.,
June 9, 1834,

DteACONS.
* William Nichols, chosen January 13,' 1743.
* Samuel Pierce, " " "

* Joseph Hubbard,
* David Fisk,
* Noah Haven,
* Israel Davis,
* Ehsha Hubbard,
Peter Rice,
* Seth Clapp,
* Joshua Fairbanks,
* Isaac Fisk,
Silas Flagg,
John Lovell,

Silas M. Hubbard, "

August 6, 1755.
March 31, 1762.
April 2, 1783.
July 31, 1793.
a ft u
June 1, 1810,
(C (C II
April 3, 1818,
II I! II
September 30, 1825.

March 1, 1839.

* Deceased.

108
BAPTIST CHURCH.
The records of the Baptist church and Society do not
bear an earlier date, than the present century. Tradi
tion reports that Mr. John Perry, living upon the farni
known as the Perry farm, was the first person of this
denomination belonging to the town. The records of the
town partially confirm the voice of tradition. An arti
cle was inserted in the warrant for the town meeting, to
be held May 5th, 1788, " To see if the town will answer
the petition of Mr. John Perry and others of the Baptis
belonging to said Holden." The vote of the town in
reference to this article reads as follows : " Voted not
to allow the petition of Mr. John Perry and others of the
Baptis belonging to Holden." From other records upon
the town books it appears, that this petition related to
the abatement of taxes, to be raised for the support of the
Established Church.
The records of the Society commence Monday, June
4, 1804. Ephraim Mirrick was chosen Moderator. John
Hubbard, Clerk. Asa Howe, Collector. And Ephraim
Mirrick associate deacon, when no deacon was present
from Templeton. The Rev. Elisha Andrews, Pastor
of the Baptist Church in Templeton, preached in town
for some years before a church was organized. Baptist
church members here were regarded as a branch church
of the Bapt. ch. in Templeton.
Mr. Andrews was a man of uncommon talents, as a
preacher, although having never enjoyed the advantages
of a public education. He is reported to have been re--
markably happy, in the expository style of preaching.
In 1805, he preached every fifth Sabbath, and 1808 every
fourth Sabbath.
March 12, 1809 it vfs.s voted, that Bro. Gates take

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 109
the lead of the meeting 2 Sundays, and Bro. Allen one,
in the absence of Mr. Andrews."
Oct. 22, 1807. Voted "to send a letter and request
to be dismissed from the church in Templeton and be
formed into a separate church,"
The minutes of the organization of the Bap. church
follow entire.
" Holden Dec. 31 1807. At an Ecclesiastical Coun
cil, holden at- the dwelling house of Brother Abraham
Gates. [David Parminter, present owner.]
Present. — From Harvard — Elder George Robinson,
Dea. Ephraim Emerson, Charles Chase, Jeremiah Dyer.
From Leverett^ — Elder Elijah Montague, Peter Ripley,
From Sutton — Elder Samuel Waters, Dea. Moses Put-
nam, Solomon Marble, and Jonah Golding.
A moderator and clerk were chosen and after solemn
prayer, by the Moderator, proceeded to business. After
mature deliberation and careful examination the Council
voted unanimously to constitute into a distinct church,
the following Brothers and Sisters, viz : — Aaron Perry,
Ephraim Mirrick,'Hezekiah Walker, Abraham Gates, John
Hubbard, Solomon Parminter, Asa Howe, Silas Walker,
Charles Brooks, Eli Hubbard, Benj. Hubbard, Jotham
Howe, Thomas Howe, Samuel Abbott, John Walker,
Paul Colburn, Thomas Marshall, Daniel Shepard,
Pelatiah Allen, John Brown, William Everett, Polly Sar
gent, Lydia Parminter, Lydia Hubbard, Mehitabel Col
burn, Hannah Howe, Sally Howe, Polly Walker, Lydia
Parminter, jr., Polly Hubbard, Elenor Howe, Polly Hen
ry, Lucretia Howe, Nancy Brooks, Polly Buck, Patty
Caldwell, Sarah Pratt, Sarah Mason, Rachel Walker,
Dorothy Howe, Tabitha Perry, Thankful Mason, Lucy
Walker, Eunice Metcalf, Judith Gates, Persis Walker,
and Nabby Shepard. 10

110 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
And the said Brothers when constituted into a church
aforesaid, shall be known by the name of the
Baptist Church, in Holden.
Voted that the Moderator of the Council give the right
hand of fellowship, to the aforesaid Brethern in token of
our Fellowship with therh as ia church in Sister rela
tion. Signed by order of the Council,
George Robinson, Mod.
Elisha Andrews, Scribe."
Articles of Faith.
1. We believe there is one God, who is a spirit eter
nally the same. A Being infinitely holy, just, and good,
filling all space with His goodness ; essentially happy in
the'possession of himself. John 4 : 24. Deut. 6 : 4. Ps.
90 : 2. Gen. 17 : 1. Ps. 115 : 3.
2. That he has revealed himself in his Word to fee
Father, Son and Holy Spirit in whiiih word He hath
given us a perfect rule of Faith, and Practice. 1 John
5 : 7. Matt. 28 : 19. 2 Cor. l3 : 14. John 1 : 14, and 18 :
15. 26. Gal. 4 : 6. 2 Tim. 3 : 15. 16. Gal. 18 : 9.
3. We believe that God did in the beginning create
worlds and beings by the word of his power, and doth up
hold the same : that he created man holy, but man did
willingly rebel, and transgress the law of his Creator, and
thereby has lost his morai rectitude and has become sin
ful in all his parts, both of soul and body, and his pos
terity have by natural generation derived the same sin
ful dispositions and have become by nature the servants
of sin, and 'subjects of temporal and eternal death, and
that God by his kind providence doth overrule all events
for his own glory. John 1 : 1. 2. 3. Rom. 1 : 20. Col 1 :
16. Gen. 2 : 1. 2. Heb. 1 : 3. Isa. 46 : 10. 11. Ps. 13: 5. 6.

HISTORY OF holden. Ill
Gen. 1: 17. Eccle. 7: 29. Gen, 1 : 27. and 3: 12. 13.
2 CoK 11:3. 1 Tim. 2:14. Rom. 3 : 23. and 6 : 12. Titus
1 : 15. Gen. 6: 5. Jere. 17 : 9. and 6 : 17. 20. 23. Heb-
2 : 4. Hosea. 1 : 6. 7. Isa. 25 chap.
4. We believe that man being thus dead, his recovery
is only in God, and that by his eternal purpose of Election
did choose a number in Christ to eternal Salvation, and
that Christ did in the fulness of time take on him human
nature, (sin only excepted) lived a holy life, died an ac-.-
cursed death on the cross, was buried, rose, accended
[and] ever livith to make intercession, for us. Hosea,
13 : 9. Eph. 1 : 4. 1 Pe. 1 : 2. 2 John 1 : 14. Rom. 8 : 3.
Heb. 2 : 14. 15. 16. 17. and 7 : 26. Gal. 3 : 13. Luke
23: 53. and 24: 6. Acts 1:9.
5. We believe that the Holy spirit of God proceeding
from the Father and the Son, only can and doth make
particular application of the merits of Christ to every elect
soul, and that he hath by the same Spirit convinced us
of our lost, sinful, and undone condition and gives ua
grace to believe in Christ, who is made of God unto us,
wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and eternal redemp
tion. John 16 : 7. 13. 14,
6. We believe that the life of religion consists in the
knowledge of God, and conformity to him in the inward
man, which necessarily produces an external conformity
to his laws and ordinances and union and fellowship one
with another. John. 17 : 3. Eph. 3 : 10-
7. We believe that baptism and the Lord's supper are
institutions of Christ to be continued till his second com^
ing and that the former is requisite to the latter, that is,
such only are to be admitted to the communion of the
church as have on profession of their faith, been baptised
by immersion. Matt. 28 : 19. Mark 16 : 15. 16. Acts 8 5
36. 37. 38. Rom. 6 : 3. 4. 1. Coi;. 11 : 23. 24.

112 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
8. We believe that the sole government of the chh. is
in Christ and that it is he and he only that can qualify
and send forth laborers into his vineyard ; and doth call
his chh. into the kingdom of his grace and by his spirit
doth gather them in particular churches ; and hath given
them power under him to govern their own members.
Isa. 9 : 6. Gal, 1 : 12. 15. 16: Rom. 8 : 30. Ezek. 34 : 11.
Eph. 2 : 17. Acts 26: 18. Rev. 3 : 7. Heb. 3 : 7. Eph. 2 :
19. 22. Mat. 16 : 9. John 20 : 23.
9. We believe that brethren in christ ought not to go
to law one with another. 1 Cor. 6 : 1 — 7.
10. We believe that a Bishop or Elder by virtue of or
dination hath no right to be moderator or scribe of the
ciih. or to claim or exercise any more power in the gov-
vernment of the chh. than any private brother, from the
nature of his office as described in scripture.* Matt. 28 :
19. 20. Mark 16 : 15. 16. 1 Tim. 4: 12. 16. 2 Tim 4 : 2.
1 Pe. 1 : 2. 3.
December 17, 1810— The chh. " voted |20,00 a year
for 5 years, to Thomas Marshall for the use of bis shed
chamber, to meet in, for worship."
Mr. Marshall lived in the house now occupied by Far
mer White in Eagleville.
" Aug. 30. 1812. Bro. Marshall consented to preach one
half of the time."
In 1813, Mr. Andrews preached 1-8 part of the time,
and during the same year, such members of the chh. as
belonged to Sterling and West Boylston withdrew to form
a church. Thomas Marshall was ordained Sept. 15. 1813.
Number of members in the chh. at diflferent periods.

' This article, has subsequently undergone some iBodifioation.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN, 11^

Admiaslon.

Number.

Admission.

Number.

1811

96

1826

134

ig. 1820

161

1830

162

1821

171

May. 1833

151

1822

111*

Aug. 1835.

168

1823

112

1836

176

1824

115

1838

221

1825

145

1840

200-

The first ^ptist Meetihg-House was built 1819---g0..
The building has since been refitted for a dwelling-house..
The Society was organized agreeably to the laws of the
Commonwealth, March 15, 1828.
No person regarded as member of the society who does
not pay annually the sum of f 1,00 or more into the trea
sury. " Feb. 16. 1838. Vojted tohuilda new meeting house,"
which was dedicated Jan. 1836. In the year 1839 Mr.
Willard M. Hubbard died, leaving flOOO to the society.
The interest of f 400 to be paid for the maintenance of'
singing and of the remaining f 600, for the support of the-
gospel. Pastors of the Baptist Chh. in Holden.
1. Rev. Elisha Andrews. — see history of the Chh.
2. Rev. Thomas Marshall preached during the years;
intervening between, 1813 and 1818..
3. Rev. John Walker.. Mr. Walker was born May
20, 1789. (His father resided in the north part of Hol
den,) The early part of his life was passed upon his
father's farm. During the autumis of 1804, his mind be
came interested in the subject of personal religion, and in
March, 1805, he made a public profession of his faith in.
Christ. In Oct. 1812, commenced preaching, licensed Aug..

* 69 had. been dismissed who belonged to Leominister, Princeton Sus..
10*

114 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
2, 1813; ordained Oct. 30, 1816. and Feb. 2, 1818, was
recognized as Pastor of the chh : which relation contin
ued until April 1, 1831.
Mr. Walker, soon after his dismission removed to West
Sutton, where be labored in the work of the gospel min-
].stry until April, 1836. From a letter addressed, by Mr.
Walker to the compiler, the following' is an extract. " I
took up my Pastoral relation [West Sutton] with an
expectation of emigrating to the far west ! but a long
and tedious journey of nearly 4,000 miles satisfied me
that my constitution would not bear the climate. My la-
li>ors commenced with the first Baptist chh.. in Barre, in
October, 1836. My Pastoral relation, in Nov. of the same
year. About 200 were added by baptism to the chh.
]'n Holden and its branches while my ministry eontinu.ed
there, and I have been privileged to baptize over fifty up
on a creditable evidence of their faith in a risen Savior
during my relation with the chh. in West Sutton and m
this place."
4. Rev. Appleton Belnap, was ordained to the work
of gospel ministry and Pastor of the Bapt. chh. in Hol
den, Jurie 13, 1832. He preached his last sermon in
town Oct. 27,. 1833, having relinquished the duties of a
Pastor to.continue his theological studies.
-¦». Rev. George Waters, was ordained Pastor of the
ehh. Sept. 25, 1834, and resigned his ofiice here, March
.31, 1S3S. He is now settled over the Bap. chh. in Sterling.
6. Rev. Samuel Everett, recognised as Pastor of the
chh. Aug. 9, 1838, and dismissed. April 19, 1839.
7. Rev. Andrew Pollard, is the present Pastor of the
Giiurch. He is a native of Harvard, Mass. For a time
he was Pastor of the Bap. chh. South Gardner. He was
installed here, Aug. 12, 1840.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 115
GENTLEMEN'S AND LADIES' MISSIONARY
ASSOCIATION.
The object of this Aissociation is to collect money
which may aid the operations of the American Board of
Com. for Foreign Missions. It was established in 1824,
by the active exertions of the Rev. Mr. Bardwell. Col
lectors are annually appointed to solicit subscriptions
from all persons disposed to favor the object of Foreign
Missions. This Association is Auxiliary to the Worces-.
ter Co. Central Missionary Association.
The collections taken at the Monthly Concert- pass to
the treasury of the American Board, through the oflicers
of this Society;
The following sums have been, contributed- during the
last ten years:

a. D.

Gentlemen's Association.

Ladies' Association.

Month. Concert.

1831

$161 40

$105 00

$ 75 33

1833

137 75

96 00,

127 35

1833

90 09

81 62.

123 45

1834

106 6S

82 30

86 17

1835

85 12

71 40-

125 73

1836-

lfl4 72

81. S*

74 60

1837

153 48

105 81:

117 71

133S

P6,09.

77 85

85 06

1839

89 f)2

77 00

79 79

1840

186 56

136 84

83 58

$1211 51

$915 32

$983 77
Total, $3110 60

The average annual amount contributed by the Con
gregational Church and Society, for Foreign Missions,
during the last ten years, is $311 06.
Note. The above' statistical account of the annual
contributions for the cause of Foreign Missions, will in
dicate the exertions usually made by the citizens of

116 HISTORY OF HOLDEN,
Holden, in behalf of such objects as are worthy the con
sideration of an enlightened, and Christian community.
The compiler has not the materials necessary to make
a fair and average account of the annual contributions
in aid of the Bible, Tract, Education and other benevo
lent Societies.

JUDAH WRIGHT:
At the Centennial Celebration a hymn was sung,
" composed by Mr. Judah Wright, a venerable citizen of
Holden, seventy years of age, suff'ering under the infirmi
ty of blindness from infancy."*
Some reader of these pages may be desirous of ac
quiring additional information respecting the blind man
who wrote those verses.
Mr. Wright is a native of Holden, and was born April
1, 1774. His father then lived upon the farm now
owned by Mr. Timothy Parker. He was deprived of
sight in infancy, in consequence of a disease of the eye.
called the cataract.
His father died when he was about twelve years
of age, and his mother was left with slender means of
support. For many years she was dependent upon her
blind son Judah, who was able to obtain a comfortable
livelihood for himself and widowed mother, by making
baskets. The trade of basket making and a kindred
employment, bottoming chairs, he has laboriously pursued
through a long life.
He has, ever exhibited an intense desire to acquire
knowledge. It may be confidently asserted that few per-
*See page 6.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 117
sons have been better acquainted with the passing events
o'f the age. Mr. Paul Davis, (who lived upon the Land
lord Paul Davis'' s hill,) for nineteen years, was accus
tomed to read the Massachusetts Spy to Mr. Wright.
The compiler heard him make the remark, that " du
ring that long period, nineteen weeks were not omitted.
Mr. Davis would begin and read the paperthrough "like
a book," omitting only a few advertisements. It was
often my practice to bottom a chair while the paper was
read." The years intervening between 1801 — 6, Mr Wright
humorously styles as his Collegiate Course. During this
period he often visited the family of the Rev. Mr. Avery,
whose amiable and accomplished daughters were ever
ready to assist a noble mind struggling with difiiculties.
They exhibited the treasures of their father's library to
the view of their sightless visitor. Numerous persons
have been found who have kindly rendered him similar
afd, and some have acted as his amanuenses. For the
aid thus rendered, he expresses the most unfeigned
gratitude. His theological and historical reading is quite exten
sive. He was lately heard to remark, " I don't think
much of making baskets only to make them : my thoughts
are generally occupied upon theological subjects, or the
history of the world." In conversation, he exhibits a
familiar acquaintance with the best English poets.
In 1812 he published a pamphlet entitled "Poems up
on VARIOUS SUBJECTS," and in 1823, " Alonzo's Dream : or
an Allegorical representation of the light in which faults
and misfortunes are frequently viewed by the unthinking
part of onankind."
The following are selections from his printed and
manuscript productions :

118 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
THE BLIND MAN.
Though darkness still attends me,
It aids internal sight, ^
And from such scenes defends Bie,
As blush to see the light.
No villain's smiles decieve me j
No gilded fop. offends ;
No weeping object grieves me ;
Kind darkness me befriends.
Who painted vice desires;
Is blind, whate'erhe thinksj
Who virtue not admires.
Is either blind or winks.
Then hence these useless railings ;
I know no reason why —
Mankind to their own failings
Are all as blind as I.

ON SPRING.
Hail! joyful Spring, at thy relarn.
The fields and forests cease to mourn;
All nature bids thee welcome here:
The northern winds and snowy squall*
Forbear to blow, or cease to fall;
And hills long covered now appear.
The sun dissolves the ice and snow;
The streams their channels overflow.
To cheer and fertilize the soil:
The trees assume their summer garbs —
The earth bedeek'd with flowers and herba.
On all her children seems to smile.
The cattle from the barn releas'd.
Partake ofa delicious feast;
The playful lamb, and sprightly calf— <
T^e stately ox, and bounding atsed.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. llO
In flow'ry pastures sport and feed,
And from the chrystal fountains quaff.
The feather'd songsters now return.
And join to usher,in each morn
With music in harmonious lays;
With joy through fields and groves they fly,
Each with the other seems to vie,
In chanting their Creator's praise.
While beasts and birds with insects join,
To praise munificence divine:
Let man the lord of all below.
According to his station raise.
The sacred song of solemn praise.
To him from whom all blessings flow.
The plants and trees in gayest bloom.
To beauty add a sweet perfUme;
And form delightful walks and bowers.
Protected from the scorching heat.
Where friends and lovers fondly meet.
And sweetly pass their leisure hours.
The meads with grass and flowers adorned —
The verdant woods and fields of corn —
The flocks and herds upon the plain;
Meandering streams and purling rills,
Descending from adjacent hills.
Conspire to beautify the scene.

ON THE UlLLENNIUM.
Alas! to what a wretched case
Has sin reduced the human race! ''
This world though once pronounced good.
By sin became a field of blood.
Ambition, pleasure, lust and pride.
With avarice our time divide -,

120 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
Reserving none for us to spend.
In .duties to our God or men.
But for our comfort we're informed,
A lasting calm succeeds the storm.
Events foretell the time is near,
When these dark scenes shall disappear.
When Satan's power shall be restrained,
And peace on earth in triumph reign,
The righteous then shall here enjoy,
Tfue happiness without arioy.
Religioh then shall be refined,
From error freed in lustre shine:
The Jewish outcasts gatber'd in,
And own, with Gentiles, Christ their king.
Impostures and idolatry
Shall cease, and Christians all agree;
The young and old, with one accord.
Delight to serve and jilease the Lord.
ThoBe weapons which have long destroy'd^
The human race, shall be cmploy'd
To cultivate a fruitful soil.
And plenty shall reward their toil.
The fertile plains shall be no more
Delug'd with floods of human gore;
For war throughout the world shall cease.
And this creation live in peace.
The cow, the bear, the wolf and sheep.
Together eafeiy feed and sleep;
Their young ones shall lie down at rest.
The strong shall not the weak molest.
A little child shall also lead
The leopard, fatling, calfand kid ;
And play with safety near the den,
Where pois'nous serpents lurk within.
For none shall injure or destroy,
'But all promote each other's joy ;

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 121
For true benevolence and grace.
Shall actuate the human race.
The weak no more the strong shall dread.
And knowledge shall the earth o'erspread.
As waters fill the spacious seas,
And gladness fill each heart with praise.

ON DRUNKENNESS. (1812.)
Oh! how disgusting is the sight.
When drunkards reeling through the street.
In laughter fawn or anger fight.
And pour contempt on all they meet.
If ardent spirits fail at home.
To shops or taverns they repair,
And drink till sense and strength are gone;
Then reeling homeward bound they steer.
But injured limbs and bruised heads
Forbid them farther to proceed.
The open street becomes their bed;
This is a dismal sight indeed.
Exposed to danger, here they sleep
Until their faculties revive;
And then wilh slow and awkward steps.
At length each at his home arrives.
With clothes besmear'd wilh filth and mud.
See how they shiver with the cold!
Their faces brnis'd and stain'd with blood.
What horrid figures to behold!
But oh! the feelings ofa wife.
Whose heart is pierc'd with sorrow through.
To see her dearest friend in life.
Himself and family undo.
But her entreaties, tears and sighs.
Will not bis vicious heart restrain:
11

122 HISTORY OF, HOLDEN.:
In vain his, neighbors all advise; '
He feels no sense of sin or shame.
His children, wearied with abusi:,
Provok'd and driven to despair;
Of freedom make improper use, '
And soon forget to love or fear.
At length the wretched man becomes
A burden to himself and friends:
Yet still this. sinful race he runs.
Till like a brute his life he ends.
Ye who indulge your dppetite.
And laws of temp ranee daily breali.
Take warning by this awfql sight:
May yoii this fatal snare escape.
Will you destroy yourselves and friends-
Exchange your honor for disgrace —
Expose yourselves to endless pains.
And all to gratify your taste?
Poor are the pleasures which yon gain
At such a vast expense as this;
For hours of pleasure, years of pain,
If not the loss of future bliss.

A lady once asked Mr. Wright " if he could exercise
as strong affection for others as though he could see
them.!" In a few days he made the following reply:
' Were you by some ari^angement plac'd;
Where with propriety yon might
By sundry persons be address'd.
Without the privilege of light,
Some might be bold, in manner rude.
And some the fop, or fool display.
Some calculating, cold and shrewd,
And others gallant, brisk and gay.
Borne «p.rightly, affabls an^ kind.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 123
Unblemish'd by seductive art,
Evincing cultivated mind.
With warmth and purity of heart.
Could you do otherwise than make
A preference, though you did not see?
I may, as well, your method take;
Remember 'tis but dark to me.
The rosy cheeks and piercing eyes.
The skin that wilh the lily Vies,
The Blender form and graceful step.
These beauties all are hid from me.
Save by imagination's light.
By which I easily can see
The charms they must present to sight.
But there are beauties of the mind
Which form ancl/eatures far excell.
The feeling heart and taste refin'd,
On these vvlth pleastiTe I can dwell.
These fade net with the charms of youth;
In frost of age they still are green ;
And are to those who relish truth.
As sweet at sixty as sixteen.

ON PRESENTING A ROSfi TO A CHILD.
Fair as the rose which I present.
May your unfolding mind expand.
With virtues grateful as the scent.
As apt to please, as free from stain.
Like this among the thorns you are,
Expos'd to raging winds and storms.
And foes who will not beauty spare,
Tho' in the most engaging forms.
With care I did the rose protect,
Lest any should my hope destroy;
Aud prudence must your steps direct.
If you would happiness enjoy.
By yonder verdant bush behold,

124 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
A rose vyhich yester morn like these.
Its beauties promis'd to unfold.
And smiling yisitants to please.
But plucked ere 't was fully blown,
Disrob'd and rudely thrown away;
It lies forsaken on the ground,
A useful monitor to thee.
So I have seen a blooming maid,
Like Eve in Eden's grove begnil'd;
Thoughtless she listen'd, was betray 'd, '
And then received frowns for smiles.
O, mav it never be your lot,
To fade untimely like the rose;
Or prove by folly's shades, or spots.
The grief of friends, or sport of foes.
Tho' youth and beauty's fairest forms.
Like roses transitory are;
Yet virtue has unfading charms.
Which time itself cannot impair.

SOCIETY FOR DETECTING THIEVES.
The object of this Society may be learned from the
preamble to the Constitution. — " As energy, vigilance,
and union are highly expedient to suppress the sons of
violence, often found in society, the persons whose names
are hereunto annexed, do agree to form themselves into
a society for the purpose of detecting thieves and recov
ering stolen property."
The Constitution was adopted Feb. 23, 1818.
Persons are admitted by voteof the Society, or appro
bation of President, Secretary, and one of the Standing
Committee, and when admitted, each individual must

HISTORY OiF HOLDENi

125

pay the sum of seventy-five cents into the hands of the
Treasurer for the use of said Society.
Clergymei^ in town have usually been elected honora
ry members of the Society.
The Constitution has been variously modified since its ,
adoption. The Society at present, when duly organized, consists,
of a President ; the duties of Secretary and Treasurer are
performed by the same person ; a Standing Committee
and a Pursuing Committee.
The funds of the Society, (January 4, 1841,) $123,86..
ORIGINAL MEMBERS.

James Estabrook,
Doct. John Smith,.,
Asa Greenwood,
Asa Broad,
Benjamin Davis,
Lemuel Davis,
Samuel Damon,
George Flagg,
Silas Flagg,
Jervis Abbott,
Francis Winn, <
Samuel Turner,
Daniel Knowlton,
Samuel W. Hubbard,.
Joel Glezen,
John M. Smith, 115

Paul Davis, jr.,
Caleb Kendall,
William Drury, jr.,
Joseph Crosby,
John P. Maynard,
James Estabrook, jr.,
James Winch,
James Davis,
Jonathan Estabrook,
Ethan Davis,
Artemas Dryden,
Farnum White,
Ebenezer Estabrook,^
Jonas Chaffin,
Royal H. Cliaffin,,
John .Chafiin.

126 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.

TOPOGRAPHY.

This township originally had a diamond or rhombic
figure. Its four sides were all straight, and those oppo
site nearly equal ; its angles, two obtuse and two acute.
In 1 76-5 some hundreds of , acres were taken from the S.
W. side to form the township of Paxton; and in 1808,
another portion was taken from the Easterly side to form
the fown of West Boylston.
Its present bounds are as follows: — commencing at the
N. W. angle, (at a stake and stones in a swamp, ^ves-
terlyfrom E. & E. Mead's house:) thence North 56 deg.
East, 899 rods, by Rutland line, to a stone post at
Princeton corner: thence N. 56 deg. E. 1204, (making a
straight line 2103,) thence S. 12 1-2 deg. E, 630 rods, by
Sterling, to a stone post on West Boylston: thence 71 1-2
deg. W. 104 rods, by ,West Boylston, to a stone post :
thence S. 5 deg, E. 1652 rods, by West Boylston to Wor
cester : thence the Worcester line runs S. 57 deg. W. 1521
rods, to a stone post at Paxton: thence, by several
small angles on the Paxton and Rutland lines, to the first
mentioned bound.
The soil of the town is various, and its surface much
diversified with hills and valleys. The different kinds
of forest trees are, pines, white and yellow; oaks
white, red, and black; hemlock, horn-beam, maple,
ash, chestnuts and walnuts. An area of fifty acres
can scarcely be found containing a homogeneous soil, or
a plain surface. " The land; in the out-skirts of the town
is the most springy and natural to grass. The general
products are rye, Indian corn, and oats. When there is
a failure of crops, it is generally owing to other causes
than the nature of the soil." {Whitney'' s His: 189.)

HISTORY, OP HOLDEN. 127
HILLS.
Maiden Hill — (called by the early settlers Mt-Garmel)
is situated' in the east- part of the town. It is covered
with wood and timber, and Only a small part is under
cultivation. A granite quarry has been improved on the
easterly side of this hill.
Pleasant Hill. Tradition reports this hill to have
been an Indian encamping ground. It has a rich soil and
prodiices great crops of grass and grain — now owned by
S. W. Hubbard' and son. [See page 2L^
Gi-ape-Vine Hill — (so called by the first settlers); It
is situated in the N. W. part of the town. The soil is
excellent and well adapted to tillage and pasturage. It
is now owned by John Estabrook.
Champlain Hill. This hill is situated, in the westerly
part of the town, and derives its name from the circum
stance, that several acres were clear of forest trees when
first visited by the early settlers. Subsequently the Capt
James Davis place.
Pine Hill. It is situated' partly in Paxton and partly
in; Holden. Its principle value consists in a growth of
pine timber.
Hasnebumskit Hill. This hill.is situated in the S.W.
part of the townC It presents a beautiful appearance
when approached from the north. Cultivated fields and
pasture-lands extend, to its very summit, Iron oar and
sulphur abound upon this, , and Pine hill, so that the
magnetic needle willnot traverse in their vicinity.
Stone-House Hill This hill is situated in the sotith
part of the town. Its steep androcky sides are difficult
of access, rendering the soil unfit for cultivation. In
'^ oiden times " it was a renowned resort for rattle-snakes.
The name, Stone-House, was given to the hill in conse-

128 mSl^RY OP HOLDEN,
quence of a natural house or shed, in the southern part
formed by the projecting rocks.
The Regulators, during the period of Shays rebellion
madp.this a place of rendezvous.
RIVERS AND BROOKS.
Quinapoxet River. It is, the principal river in the
town. It has three branches. (1.) North Quinapoxet
River in formed by the union of streams issuing from
Quinapoxet and Muscopauge Poijdsi. This branch passes
the North and Quinapoxpt Factories, and unites with
the (2) South Quinapoxet, rising in the Hasnebumskit
Pond, in Paxton. The last mentioned stream pafeses
Eagleville, Dryden's, Jepherson's, and Lovell's manu
facturing mills. These branches unite in Mr. Thaddeus
Nichols's intervaie, thence running through Perry's and
Watson's intervales. (3.) Cedar Swamp Brook rises
from numerous springs in thp southerly part of the town,
passing" Hinds' and Hill's mills, and Lee's cotton factory,
and unites with the Quinapoxet. River, in the Estabrook
intervale. This river thence passing Shelden's mills, be
comes a branch of the Nashua River, which empties into
the Merrimack River near Nashua, N. H.
A small stream rises in the south part of the town and
becomes a branch of the Blackstone River.
Note. In the meadow, near Mr, Sam'l Howe's house,
two streams rise. One becomes a tributary of Merjimack
River, the other of the Blackstone River. The former
emptying into the ocean at Newburyport ; the latter into
Narragansett Bay, at Providence, R. I.
The surfape of Q^uinapoxet Pond is 717 ft. above tide
water; and Quinapoxet River, at the West Boylston
line, 483 ft. above the same level. Of course, the fall of
Quinapoxet River, in Holden, would be 234 ft.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 129
JUSTICES.
* John Childs, jr. appointed September 19, 1776.
* John Dodd,t " March 29, 1793.
William Drury, " June 9, 1802.
* Lemuel Davis, " March 5, 1804.
* James Estabrook, " March 3, 1809.
* Ebenezer Estabrook, " October 24, 1814.
* Ethan Davis, " June 18, 1817.
Samuel Damon, " July 2, 1828.
Silas Flagg, " February 23, 1833.
Charles Chaffin, ^' February 23, 1833.
Paul Davis, " March 25, 1840.

* Deceased.
t The following interesting incidents were furnished by a son of John
Dodd, Esq., in a letter to the compiler:
" Mr. James Dodd was born in the north of Ireland, in the year 1724.
His father died when he was about the age of 12 or 14 years, and he wus
apprenlic.ed to an older brother who was a manufacturer of Linen Goods.
In consequence of ill treatment by his brother's wife, he threatened to leave
bis brother unless she treated him with more kindness, which he carried into
effect shortly after.
An .'Vtaerican vessel came into port and he made known his grievances
to the Captain, and requested he would take him to this country ; informing
him at the same time, ihat he had no money, but would work his passage.
The Capt. consented, and was to hoist a signal when ha was ready to weigh
anchor, and Mr. Dudd was to go to the wharf and swing his hut, and the
Capt. was to send a boat for him, which was d^ae. Soon after, the vessel
was hailed by some one on shore to know if ihSy had any one on board that
did not belong there ; to which the Captain replied that he had no one but
his crew. On his arrival in this country, abaat 1741 or 2, having neither
friends nor money, (as all he took with him was.a-3mall bundle of clothes
which he tiod op in a handkerchief,) he made immediate application to
William Shirley, then Provincial Governor of Massachusetts, who, at the lime
resided in the town of Dorchester, and who immediately procured a loom
and set him to work. His fabric was of so fine a texture that the GoveTnor
sent a portion of it to England as a specimen of American product and man
ufacture, the first that went from this country ; for which the spinner and
weaver each received a Joe [$17,14,] as a premium for their skill. After a
year ortwo^s residence in this country, Mr. Dodd became acquainted wilh
a Miss Mary Houston, who at the age of 8 years, came over to this country
from the north of Ireland wilh her father, mother, three brothers and three
sisters, and settled in Maine." *****
He was married " in the year 1747, to the aforesaid Mary HonstOD, an*

130 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
LAWYER.
Jason B. Blackington. Native of Attleborough.
Brown University, A. B. 1826, He commenced the
practice of law in town, 1829, and continued here be
tween two and three years. He is now at the West.

COLLEGE GRADUATES.
-Jonathan Fisher, H, U. 1792.
Joseph Cheney, B. U. 1801.
Abraham Wheeler, Wm's C. 18ia
Abel Manning, B. U. 1817.
Moses Winch, A. C. 1827.
Elnathan Davis, Wm's C. 1834.
toavid Fiske, A. C. 1834.
John Foster, A. C. 1834.
William Howe, Waterville C. 1834,
Merrill Richardson, M, C. 1835.
Henry G. Darling, Wm's C. 1835.
Samuel D. Darling, Wm's C. 1836.
Samuel C. Damon, A. C. 1836.

settled in Bedford, where they resided until about the year 1767. During
their residence in Bedford, they had three children, viz : V\ illiam, who livas
¦born in 1747, James in 1750, and John in 1755. From Bedford they mov
ed to Lexington, where they purchased a small place and resided for six
years ; sold it in 1763, and purchased a farm of about 300 acres in Holden,
now occupied and owned by Deacon Rice, Oliver Knowlton, Sam'l Stratton
and the widow Parker. This place vtas purchased with specie, which he
took np in his saddlebags ; and lie, sold out again in the year 1776 or 1777,
with the intention of moving down to Maine, among his wife's relations, but
never carried this project into etfect ;as he was soon after taken sick, and died
in May, 1778. In the spring after he sold his farm, he sold oifall his stock.
t'or the farm and stock he took paiy. in continental money, most of which
was kept on hand until it was entirely worthless. During his residence ia
Holden he purchased a farm in Princeton for his eldest son William, which
he gave to him, and remarked at the time, that the Homestead (which he
subsequently sold for continental ihoney,) would answer for James and John.
Thus the two younger children were almost entirely cut off."

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 131
MISSIONARIES.
Deacon Isaac Fisk. He was the son of Mr. Nahum
Fisk, and born at Holden — 1790. A blacksmith by trade.
Married to the daughter of Ethan Davis, Esq., and soon
after her death, he engaged as a lay-missionary among
the Choctaw Indians. He arrived at Elliot, Aug., 1819,
and 1820. In his will, he bequeathed about $800 00 to.
the American Board.
Mrs. Goodell, (Abigail P; Davis,) daughter of Lemu-.
el Davis, Esq., and grand-daughter of the first minister,
was born at Holden, April 16, 1800. She was married
to the Rev. William Goodell, a graduate of D. C, 1817,
Andover T. S; 1820. They embarked Dec. 9, 1822, from
New York, for the Syrian Mission, under the patronage
of the American B. C. F. Missions. Beyroot became the
scene of their labors, where they remained some years.
From thence they removed to Malta, on the Island of
Cyprus ; but since the year 1831, they have been station-,
ed at Constantinople.
Mrs Grout, (Hannah Davis,) daughter of Ethan Da
vis, Esq., was born at Holden, Feb. 26, 1805. In early
life her mind was impressed with th6 importance of per
sonal religion. Her connection with the church in Hol
den, commenced when she was quite'young. In addition
to the advantages of schools in her native place, she was
for a number of months un,der the instruction of the ex
cellent Mrs. Fiske, of Keene, N. H., and completed her
studies preparatory for the missionary work, at Ipswich
Female^ Seminary. She was married to the Rev. Aldin-
Grout, a graduate bf Amherst College, 1831, and Ando
ver T. S. 1834. They embarked at Boston, Dec. 3, 1834,
for a Station about to be established among a native
tribe of Africans, called the Zulu, living in the south-.
eastern part of the Continent. They arrived at Cape-

Jj32 HISTORY OF holden.
Town, Feb. 5, 1835, and at Port Natal, May 21, 1836.
Mrs. Grout died at Port Elizabeth, Feb. 24, 1836. One
yeait and nineteen days after her arrival in the country.
Mrs. Grout, (Charlotte Bailey.) She is the daugh
ter of Mr. James Bailey, and was married to the Rev.
Aldin Grout, a few months after his return from Africa,
to the U. S., in consequence of wars among the Zulu
people. They embarked for Africa, March, 1840, to en
gage in missionary labors, among the same tribes.
Mk. Edward Bailey, son of Mr. Jam^s Bailey, was
born at Holden, Feb. 24, 1814. He was married to Miss
Caroline Hubbard, daughter of Mr. Jonas Hubbard.
She was born at Holden, August 13, 1814. They em
barked froi, 1, Boston for the Sandwich Islands, December
14, 1836. N->w engaged in Missionary pursuits at the
Islands. Mrs. Eells, (Myra Fairbanks,) daughter of Deacon
Joshua Fairbanks, was born at; Holden, May 25, 1S05.
She was married to the Rev. Cushing Eells, a native of
Blanford, Ms., and graduate of Williams College, 1834,
and East Windsor Theological Seminary, 1837. They
Iteft New York, March 19, 1888, for a missionary station,.
supported by the American Board, among the Flat Head-
Indians, living beyond the Rocky Mountains. Their
journey was mostly performed, after leaving Saint Louis,
in company with a Caravan, which travelled for trading
purposes among the Indians. Mr. and Mrs. Eells arrived
safely at their station, Aug. 29, 1838, where they are now
engaged in their missionary labors.
Mrs. Goddahd, (Eliza Ann Abbott.) She is the daugh
ter of Mr. Asa Abbott, and was married to the Rev. Mr.
Goddard, a Missionary to China, under the patronage of
the American Baptist Board of Missions.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN, 133
POST-MASTERS,
'¦[the post-office was established  1813 OR '14.]
Benjamin Davis, Dennis Davis,
Lemuel Davis, Charles Chaffin,
Merrill Davis,

PHYSICIANS.
A half century had nearly passed before a Physician
became permanently located in Town. A biographical
sketch of the first was given in the address, page 60.
The following inscription is taken from his grave-stone.
This Stone
Marks the Spot
where rests the mortal
part of
DOCT. ISAAC CHENERY,
who depaTted this life,
Oct. 20, 1822,
Aged 80.
*' In the cold mansion of the silent tomb.
How still the solitude, how deep tha gloom ;
Here sleeps the flesh unconscious, close, confined.
But far, far distant dwells the immortal mind."
Note, Soon after Doct, C.'s settlement in Holden, he
married Miss Susannah Pierce, of Worcester. They had
seven sons and three daughters. Their grand-children,
now number 43 — g. g. children, 44 — g. g. g. child, 1 ; in
all, 98 descendants.
Thaddeus Chenery. Son of Isaac Chenery, was born,
Holden, April 27, 1769. He practiced a short time with
his father, after becoming a member of the profession,
but soon removed to Boylston, where he remained (ex
cepting six years at Lancaster,) until a few months sub
sequent to the death of his father, 1822. He then returned
to the late residence of his father, where he continued to
12

134 HISTORY OF HOLDEN,
reside until 1840 ; and he is now living in the centre of
the town. The whole period of his practice has been about
forty years. He married Polly Dodd, Their children are,
Wm. D., Cyrus, Jno. A., Mary,Nancy J., and Lucy Ann.
MosES Wheeler. A native of the town. Not known
how long he continued here his practice. Died  -,
State of New York,
Aakon Holbrook. a nativ^e of the town. He prac*
ticed some years, and died December 18, 1825, aged 43.
John Smith, and his son John M. Smith, practiced some
years in town.
George Estabrook. A native of Rutland. This gen
tleman has resided at two different times in town. He
now is living in his native place.
David Davis. A native of the town, and son of Elna
than Davis. He received his degree at New Haven,
1824. He is now actively engaged here, in the duties of
his profession. He spent two years in New York city,
between 1833-7, and his practice in Holden has been
about fifteen years.
Aaron G. BABcocit. A native of Princeton. Com
menced practice here, 1830. He subsequently, was a
druggist, in Worcester ; and is now engaged in the man
ufacture of calico, Newton, Mass.
Warren Partridge. Practiced for months in town,
and is now living at Princeton, engaged in his profes
sional duties.
A- G. Skinner. Practiced very successfully here, for
some months, but now is residing in the West.
Augustus Robbins. A native of Harvard, M. D. at
H. U., is now successfully discharging his professional
duties in town. He commenced practice in Holden, June
20, 1837.
Note. Some other Physicians have come and gone.

HISTORY OF holden. 133
MASONRY.
The Worcester County Encampment of Knights Tem
plars, and the Appendant Orders, was established in
Holden, June 24, 1825. An address was delivered upon
the occasion by the Rev. Benjamin Wood, Upton. Bye^
Laws, twenty-three in number, were adopted, and,
published. original members.
Jonas L. Sibley, Daniel Tenney,
James Estabrook, George Estabrook,
Lewis Thayer, David Davis,
Samuel Stratton, Jacob Wood,
Orin Dalrimple, Joel Nurse,
Elisha Andrews, Manasseh Willard,
Jacob Frieze, Adin Ballou.
The meetings of the Masonic Fraternity were, for some
years held in the Hall of the Abbott Hotel. Niimerous
relics and papers are now deposited in the garret of the
same house. The neglect into which the subject has
fallen for some years past, would lead to the conclusion
that the Rev. Mr. Wood and his Masonic Friends, are
no\v j)ractically adopting an opinion advanced in his ad
dress. "For myself, I am ready to declare, in this pub
lic manner, that did I believe there was any thing in the
principles of Masonry, incompatible with the high and
holy vocation of a Christian Minister, or any thing which
had the least tendency to weaken or destroy the faith
once delivered to the saints, I would openly and imme
diately renounce the order, and throw its badges to the
moles and to the bats !" [See Page 6.]

136' HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
MILITARY AFFAIRS.
In the early records of the town, constant references
appear relating to militia aff'airs. The citizens were,
often called to make practical exhibitions of their patri
otism and bravery in their country's service. The town.
May 4, 1744, "Voted the sum of £30, to provide
powder and bullets, and flints for town-stock."
The following list of militia men, must have been made
at an early period, although it was accompanied by no
date. OFFICERS.
C^t. John Biglo, Sergeant, Bezaleel Fisk,
Lieiii. Cyprian Stevens, " Samuel Hubbard.
Ensig)i, Sam'l Heywood, " John Childs,
Corp. Joseph Greenwood, " Amos Heywood,
" Jonathan Rice, PRIVATES.
Samuel Thompson, John Johnson, H Thompson,
Wm Clark, William Harris, Abra Black,
Jonathan Lovell, Charles Heywood, Nathaniel Stearns,
.Totham Biglo, Benj Mead, Jonathan Wheeler,
James Grey, Jonas Parkei', Moses Wheeler,
Joseph Woolley, Amos Parker, Isaac Wheeler,
riiinehas Bennett, Elisha Parker, David Fiske,
Silas Bennett, Andrew Smith, Robert Wilson,
Phinehas Ball, Josiah Broad, John Shelton,
Wm Niokols jr, Josiah Cheney, Eph Stevens,
Thomas McMullen, Will Cowden, O Davis
David Brown, Saml Cowden, Jonas Gray,
Jonas Read, Will Thompson, Peter Nutten,
Elisha Harrington, Joseph French, Robert Cowden,
Isaac Smith, Joshud Nickols,
In tracing the history of the town to the close of the
18th century, the writer made repeated allusions to the
military spirit of its inhabitants. The same feeling
has since been cherished.
About the close of the last war, it was exhibited in
the organization of a Grenadier Company. This compa
ny for more than 20 years, took a high rank upon all oc
casions of military parade. Its Officers and Privates
were willing to make great sacrifices of their time, exer-

HISTORY OF HOLDEN.

137

tions, and money, to maintain its honor and respectability.
The following, comprises a full list of all its members,
from 1816 to 1837. Curtis Knowlton,
Oren Flagg,
Moses G. Allen,
Nathan Rogers, jun.,
Moses Newell,
Warren Davis,
William Bassett, 1824.
John L. Davis,
Newman Allen,
William Kend'all,
tStilnian Estabrook,
Abner Perry jun.,,
1825.
Baylies Upham,
Alonzo L. Ware,
Moses Smith,
Leonard Fales,
William Davis,
Nahum Howe,
Samuel D. Darling,
Elnathan Davis,
§Caleb Kendall, jun.,
Benjamin T. Soulhwiok,
Nathaniel Sibley,
1826.
tJoab S. Holt,
John Richardson,
James Bacon,
Philo Smith,
John L. Hewet,
Rufus F. Bacon,
Elias B. Flagg,
Jeremiah Knowlton,
Jason Knowlton,
Hollis Ball,
Abner Rogers,
David Fisk, 2d,
Joseph D. Fuller,
1827.
Harrison Bi.'cby,
Albert M. Bartlett,
Alfred P. Bartlett,
Stilman Hubbard,
Moses Winn,
gilas Dodd,
Francis Davis,
Samuel Temple,
Edmund Johnson,

1816.
tJervis Abbott,
Amasa Boyden,
**Wm Drury jr,
David risk,
§Thoma9 Jones Davis,
Seth Clapp, Jr.,
Leonard Fisk,
Jotham Bigelow,
Warren Flagg,
John Rogers, 2d,
Samuel Dunton,
John Keyes,
Simon Chaffin,
*Thomas Davis, jun.,
Cyrus Dryden,
Samuel Munroe,
Walter Lee,
Luther Goddard,
Silas Flagg,
Joel Howe,
Leonard Fales,
Sirnon Hubbard,
Chaunoey Rugg,
Jonathan Chaffin,
Joseph Howard, jun.,
David Clapp,
David Winch,
Jacob Howard, 1817.
Luther Nash,
Micah Holbrook,
Daniel Rogers,
David Hoyt,
§Johi» P. Maynard,
James Maddocks,
Amos .Adams,
Leonard Chenery,
tChenery Abbott,
John Fales,
Abraham Goddard,
Joseph White,
tMerrill Davis,
**Jones Estabrook,
Nathan Goodell,
Joseph Barbour,
Rufus P. Fuller,
^Sparrow Crosby, jun.
David Cook,

Samuel Chickering,
Royal H. Chaffin,
Daniel Knowlton, jun.,
Joseph Crosby,
Simon Black,
Stilman Howe, 1818.
David Partridge,
^Dennis Davis,
Artemas White,
John Buss, ' 1819.
tSamuel Stratton, Jan.,
Benjamin Pierce,
ttJason Mann,
Elisha Bartlett,
Thomas Jefferson Davis,
^Daniel Hubbard,
Caleb Rogers, 1820.
John Spring,
**Abel Drury,
Samuel D. Greenwood,
Charles B. Maynard,
Ebenezer R. Perry,
George W. Perry,
1821.
William Flagg,
Emerson Hubbard,
Lyman Bryant,
Gardner Davis,
Jonathan Munroe,
Addison Davis,
Oliver Stone,
Joseph Parminter,
William Mathews,
Joel Davis, 1822.
Daniel Knowlton, jun.,
Addison Arnold,
Hezekiah Bent,
John E. Willington,
Charles Goodnow,
William Kendall,
David Davis,
Henry Goulding,
Samuel A. Wheeler,
, 1823.
Joseph Davis,
12

138

HISTORY OF HOLBEN.

Edward Richardson,
Silas Smith,
Asa Holbrook,
Caleb S. Fisk, 1828.
Amos H. Newell,
Peter S. Winn,
Gilman Darling,
Elisha Tucker,
Prescott B. Albee, '
1S29.
Daniel F. Hubbards
Joseph Fisk,
Simon G. Harrington.,
William Rogers,
Dwight F. Eager,
Aaron Newell, 1830.
Horace Nichols,
Charles Hubbard,
X^emuelFisk, jun.,
John E. Smith,
**Ethan Davis, jun.,.
James Hastings,
Simon Howe,
Chasles A. Barber,
1831.
Caleb G. Howe,
Sparrow C. Myrick,
Samuel B. Hubbard,
§Austin Estabrook,
John Coleigh,
Simon, Goodale,
Marshall P. Robinson,
Charles Ball,

William G. Parker,
George Hastings,
Austin Flagg, 1832,
Edward Bailey,
Almon Samson,
William T. Watson,
De.^ter Muzzy,
Alfred F. Hastings,
Marshall Hastings,
Squire Slocumb,
William Howe,
Oliver C.-Fairbank,
George Thomas,
Levi Morgan, 1833.
Samuel Carpenter,
John Stone,
Moses L, Darling,
**Ebenezer Estabrook,.
Otis Smith,
Benjamin Sawyer,
Calvin D. Davis,
ttJarnes Kendall,
William J. Stratton,
James Rawson, 1834.
Charles- Wood',
George Dryden,
Daniel Willington,
Simon Crosby,
Silas Barbour, jun.,
John M. Hubbard,
George Cheney,
**Geoige Knowlton,
William Willington.,

Joseph B. Hubbard,
Note. — A few years since a Light
witS organized from enlistments in
Boylston. The writer has not had the privilege of peru
sing the company's records.

John F. Smith,.
Elijah Wheelock,
Lothrop Dormoo,
Gilbert Wheelock,
John B. Watson, 1835.
Merrick H. Houghton,
Nahum Newell,
Joseph Bassett,
Caleb K. Sawyer,
Ezra Sawyer,
Samuel Black,
Vt illiam B. Wright,
Eli Darling,
William Howe,
Hendriok G. Smith,
1836.
Ebenezer W. Howe,
Charles Roper,
David C. Smith,
Samuel Denny Hubbard,^
tisaac Damon,
Danford Hall,
Elisha Newell,
James W. Rogers,
**John Boyden,
Beriah W. Hyde,
William W. Dodd,
Merrill Abbott,
Samuel Turner, junj
George F. Wood,
Alex. Loveless,
Nye Moullon, 1837.
James F. Hervey.
Infantry company
Holden and West

* Pron
Major ;
Snsigjis.

oted to Rank of General
§ do, do,, Captain ;_

t

do.
do.

do. Colonel
do. Lieut.;

ft

do.
do.

dOi
dp...,

HISTORY OP HOLDEN. 139'
SCHOOLS.
Common Schools. When the citizens of Holden were
legally incorporated as a town, the worship of God was
" First in their noble thoughts and' plans ;
Then, the strong training of their youth."
" To have a writing and. reading school," voted the
citizens, assembled May 19, 1741. A century passed.
March 15, 1841. In Townr-Meeting, it was " voted to
raise 800 dollars for schools the ensuing year." "Voted,
that it be divided with all other funds from Town or
State, as last year, by the Selectmen and Assessors."
Each year intervening between 1741 and 1841, witnessed
a similar vote. It would appear from the Town records
to have become an established method of proceedure, to
do as last year, respecting schools ; with this exception,
however, the amount of money raised has gradually been
augmented with the increase of population.
The Town, during the last few years, has annually
expended more than $1000 for the support of Common
Schools. A fund of about $3,400 is held by the town,
the interest, (1840 — $202 00,) of which is appropriated
for schooling. In addition,, the sum of $54,69, was last
year (1840,), received from the State Treasury.,
The above-mentioned fund [is principally the avails
of Public Lands, granted to the town by original Pro
prietors. They reserved certain tracts of land as school
lots. Statistical account of the Common Schools for 1840.
Number of Districts, 12„

No.

Part of Ihe Town.

No. of Scholars

Appropriations.

between 3 y.

&21y.

1,
Centre,
110
$176 00
2,
Uhionville,
125
150 00
3,
East Part,
63
94 00'
4.
Flagg District,
48
79 00
5,.
Eagleville,.
109
152 00,
140 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
No.

6,

Chaffin District,

55

76 00

7,

Walker "

81

55 00

8,

West Part,

20

40 00

9,

Near John Estabrooks,

48

40 00

10,

Near Samuel Brooks,

32

45 70

H,

Near Widow Allen,

83

53 04

12,

French Woods' Dis.,

65

67 57

733

1062 67

Average attendance — Summer, 387 — Winter, 414.
Number of Scholars between 4 y. and 16 y., 485.
" of Teachers — Summer, 12 Females, 0 Males.
" '* Winter, 5 " 9 "
Av. wages per mo., including board, $11,61, females, $26,87, males.
" Value board per mo., , 6,06, " 8,00, "
Private Schools and schools kept to prolong common schools, 5.
Aggregate number of months, 9.
" Number of scholars, 45.
At an expense to individuals, $135 00.
The influence exerted by Common School instruction,
has been in the highest degree, happy and salutary upon
all the citizens of the town. It may confidently be as
serted that each individual has personally shared in their
enlightening and ennobling blessings.
The instance (if any has existed,) has never come to
the knowledge of the writer, that a native-born citizen
OF HOLDEN COULD NOT READ AND WRITE.
"I have somewhere read" writes Addison, "of an
eminent person, who used in his private offices of de
votion to give thanks to Heaven that he was born a
Frenchman. I look upon it as a peculiar blessing that I
was born an Englishman."* A Frenchman may give
thanks for his National birth-right, and an Englishman
regard his as a peculiar blessing ; the writer desires ever
to cherish unfeigned gratitude for the peculiar blessing
of a birth-place, and a common school education amid
the hills of happy New-England ; for this reason, among
many others — every child here, not only may, but does,
learn to read and write.

* Spectator, No. 135.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 141
Select Schools. The interests of education in Holden
have not been unaffected by the progress of learning
throughout the community. The demand for more
school instruction has been met by the people of this
place, in the maintenance, a part of the year, of a Select
or Hish-School. These schools have with one excep
tion,* commenced about the first week in September, and
continued 11 or 12 weeks. The teacher has usually re
ceived the tuition-fees, paying his own expenses* The
number of scholars has averaged from 30 to 50.
LIST OF SELECT-SCHOOL TEACHERS.

1828— Edward P. Humphrey,

A. B.

182S.

A. C.

1829— David Tappan Lane,

u

1829.

CC

1830— Philander O. Powers,

£C

1330.

tt

1831— Aldin Gi'out,

iC

1831.

tt

1832— Philander 0. Powers,

1833— William Howe,

tc

1834.

Wat. Coll.

1834 — Merrill Richardson,

it

1835.

Mid. Coll,

1835— Samuel C. Damon,

tt

1836.

A. C.

1836— Miss Martha Paine,

1837— Rufus Taylor,
It
1837.
A. C.
1888— Rufus Taylor,
1839— Sabin McKinney,
ee
1840.
C I
1840— Geoi^e B. Rowell,
(t
1837.
ti
Sabbath Schools — have been maintained in both soci
eties from about the year 1820. Schools were at first
established in each school district. This practice was
sustained but one year, 1819. The Rev. Mr. Goodell,
(Missionary at Constantinople,) is regarded as having in
troduced the system of S. S. Dea. John Lowell was
Superintendant of Cong. S. S. from 1822, for 15 years.
He was succeeded by Mr. Alonzo Ware, for 3 years.
Mr, Allen is the present Superintendant,
* In the spring of 1830, Mr, John Keep, a graduate of A, C, 1829, taught
a select school one (quarter.
142

HISTORY OF HOLDEN,

POPULATION,
The earliest census of the town was taken — 1765,
Number of families, 75: Males under 16 years, 161,
above 16 years, 109 : Females under 16 years, 116, above
16 years, 107 : Negroes, 2, Total, 495,
census of HOLDEN BY FAMILIES, 1773.*

David Winch

5

John Winch

9

John Black

5

Elijah Bice

6

Josiah Broad jr

4

Jabez Harrington

11

Masten Holt

5

John Abbott

12

James Cheney

6

Moses Stickney

11

Josiah Stratton

8

Francis Wilson

4

Samuel Grant

6

Jonathan Wheeler

4

Jona Jlowe

6

Job Colburnt'

7

Abel How

3

Ebenezer Melet

5

Wm Nickols

10

Henry Taft

9

Joseph Greenwoot

1 5

John Perry

8

Benjamin Allen

6

Samuel Estabrook

3

John Obens

2

Paul Goodale

5

Charles Heywood

13

Abra How

3

Samuel Chaffin

9

Amos Heywood

9

Asa How

7

Eph Smith

6

Israel Davis

8

Elisha Hubbard

7

William Raymond

7

Josiah Broad

7

Elijah Rice, jr

6

Dea David Fiske

8

Samuel Hubbard j

r 8

Peter Hubbard

8

.Samuel Heywood

9

Asa Lovel

4

Wm Harris

9

James Dods

3

Peter Noice

2

Elisha Mirrick

8

Rd Flagg

5

Ephraim Holt

5

Aaron Newton

3

Daniel Black

6

Bezaleel Fisk

6

Joseph Morse

10

Benjamin Mead

5

Increase Stearns

9

Samuel Estabrook ¦

jr4

Isaac Bartlett

11

Judah Wright

6

Thomas Grout

5

Isaac Chenery

8

Joseph, Davis

5

Andrew Smith

11

Israel Davis jr

7

Thomas Kimball

8

Dea Jos Hubbard

7

Nathaniel Shepherd 3

Stephen White

6

Jonas Gale

11

Jason Gleason

7

Jona Lovell

8

Wm Marshall

7

Peter Goulden

6

Moses Wheeler jr

2

Hezekiah Walker

3

Samuel Hubbard

7

Jeremiah Fuller

5

Seth Snow

7

Joseph Kingsbury

6

David Perry

5

Edmund Hall

4

Noah Haven

3

Jesse Allen

5

3790

.

,

_

1077

1800 Males,

569, Females, b73.

1142

1800

.

.

.

1820 Whites

, 1400, Colorec

1,2,

1402

1830

.

,

1718
1840{ Males under 5 years, 148 Femal
ies 1
jnder 5 years, 121
" between 5-
-10, 93 "
between 5—10, 92
tt te
10-
-15, 107 "
« 10—15, 93
tt U
15-
-20, 99 «
« 15—20, 110
It tt
30-
-30, 170 «
« 20—30, 218
* The above census is again inserted, in consequence of typographical,
errors, and because this position appears the most proper.
t " Job Colburn had the widow Newton at his house keeping achaalj
and Daniel Hinds made his home there."
t United States Census, 1840,
HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 143
Males between 30—40, 128 Females between 30—40, 108

40—50,

67

40—50,

59

50-60,

68

50—60,

78

60—70,

22 <

60—70,

31

70—80,

15

70—80,
25
80 90,
11 '
80—90,
9
90—100,
0
90—100,
1
100,
I <
100,
0
929 945—1874
Five hundred seVenty-one persons are engaged in ag
ricultural pursuits, ten in commerce, and one hundred and
two in manufactures and trades. No colored persons
in town.f
Emigration. The native born citi2;ens of Holden, have
fully contributed their share to sustain the established
character of N. E. people, for going out to seek their for
tunes, leaving no state, continent, island, or sea unexplo
red. It would, perhaps, be as impracticable as impossi
ble to furnish a complete list of all natives of Holden
abroad. The compiler will confine himself to a few
(small part)now living. Levi Holbrook, graduate of
Ver. Uni. 1811, has resided for more than twenty years
at Danville, Va, He went out as a school teacher.
John, James, Benjamin and George^ sons of John Dodd,
Esq^, reside in Boston. The first is a merchant, the oth
ers are connected with banking. All the Northern and
many of the Southern States have representatives from
Holden. While many have come from neighboring towns
to settle in town, as many have gone to supply their
places.
t Deaths during 1840. *Fhe folloVvrng statistics are taken from the
Rev. Mr. Paine's New Year's Sermon:
Less than one year, 8.
between 1—10, 3 Between 30—40, 5 Between 60—70, 3
" 10—20, 0 ", 40—50, 3 " 70—80, 1
" 20—30, 3 " 50—60, 3 « 80—90, 4—33
In January, 4 In March, 3 In May, 2 In July, 9 In September, 2 November, 4
February, 1 April, 2 June, 2 Augti^t, 4 October, 4 December, 3
Males, 17 Amount of all their ages, 1126
^''emales, 1'6 — 33 Average age, 34
144 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
VALUATIONS,
The first general valuation, was made the year fol
lowing the adoption of the State Constitution, 1780.
VALUATION FOR 1781.

170

Buildings, valued at £27 per acre,

£4590

0

0

S99

Acres of IMowing Tillage,

2632

18

10

493

" IVleadow

887

13

0

1579

" Pasturage,

4256

3

1

10,464

" Woodland,

8676

8

0

7

Mills

220

0

0

282S

£, Money on hand and at interest;

, 848

8

0

None

Ounces op Plate,

106

Horses valued at

742

0

0

287

Oxen,

1435

0

0

400

Cows,

1200

0

0

200

Steers,

300

0

0

1234

Sheep,

371

8

0

248

Swine,
Grain on hand.

148

16

0

None

Cabeiages of all sorts,*

£26,881
4
11
OT $89,604 15
LAST GENERAL VALUATIONS FOR THE YE^R 1840,
Number,
Polls,
456
Houses,
263
Barns,
289
Saw-Mills,
13
Grist "
5
Shingle & Lath do.
Fulling "
Carding Machine,
6 1
1
Cotton Factories,
S
Spindles,
Looms,
6,474 153
Woollen Factories,
2
Spindles,
Looms,
4S0 16
Tanneries,
2
Stores
6
Acres Tillage Land,
Bush. Wheat, '
824 67
* Rev. Mr. Avery, was among the first, to ride in a chaise,and old people
now can remeaiber wben there was not a wagon or chaise in town.
HISTORY OF HOLDEN, 145

Number

of

bushels Rye,

1,073

" Oats,

7,010

" Corn,
6,466
" Barley,
50
Acres Eng. Mowing,
2,135
Tons Hay,
1,649
Acres Meadow,
952
Tons Hay,
63S
Acres Pasturage,
7,499
" Wood-Land,
4,184
" Unimproved Land,
4,655
" Unimprovable "
1,810
Oxen,
287
Cows and Young Cattle,
987
Horses,
221
Sheep,
347
Swine,
SIS
Whole amount of valuation for 1840, $576,622.
MANUFACTURES.
The history of manufactures may most readily be
traced by sketching, separately, that of the different
villages. Unionville. Messrs. Eleazer Rider & Sons, commenc
ed spinning Cotton Yarn at this place in 1809. These
persons had been previously engaged in the same busi
ness, at West Boylston. It is stated upon good authori
ty, that they were among the first, (if not the first,) man
ufacturers of cotton yarn in Worcester County. In 1810
the factory of the Messrs. Riders contained 48 spindles.
The same year, the establishment was purchased by Mr,
Joshua Bassett and Mr, Farnum White, An addition
was then made of 56 spindles, Mr, John Rudman pur
chased of Bassett and White, in 1814, The factory was
sold to Mr, John Slater, 1819. In the following year,
repairs and alterations were commenced. In 1821, Mr,
John Lees became the owner, who continued to make re
pairs artd additions, during the three following years.
Weavinsbythe Power Loom commenced 1822. In 1824,
13
14S IHSTORY OF holden.
Mr. Lees sold 10 bales of Sheeting to Mr. Samuel Park-
man, jr., Boston, who shipped the goods to Batavia. It
was reported at the time, to have been the first shipment
of cotton goods from this country, which passed around
Cape Good-Hope.
This manufacturing establishment is now the proper
ty of Lees and Eldridge, — contains 1770 spindles, and
36 Looms. 275,000 yards is an average amount of cloth
annually manufactured, besides a quantity of batting.
Jepherson's Satinet Factory. It was built by 
Morse, 1825, but is now owned by Mr. John Jepherson.
It contains 180 spindleS, and 8 looms. During the la'te
"hard times," the proprietor has devoted more attention
to agriculture, than to the manufacture of satinet — at a
"dead loss."
NorthVille Factory. It Vas built by B. T, Southgate,
for the manufacture of woollen goods, but was altered by
Wm. BufFum, to cottons, in 1827. It contains 40 Looms
and 1488 Spindles, and has generally made, with 36
Looms and 1392 Spindles, 250,000 yards of Shirting.
The present owner of the establishment, S. Damon,
Esq., 1840, built near by, a smaU Batting Mill.
QuiNEPoiET Tillage. The Factory in this village,
was built by S. Damon, Esq., under contract with Jo
seph Metcalf and Brother, during the summer of 1831.
It has from time to time undergone extensive repairs
and is now owned by the original builder, in company
with Nathan Howe. It contains 1400 Spindles, and 40
Looms. 250,000 yards of Sheetings are annually manu-
tured. Eagleville Factory. Mr. Samuel Clark purchased
the Saw and Grist-Mills, of Caleb Kendall, in this village,
in 1831. He erected a small Factory the same year,
which has since been enlarged to its present dimensions.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. IIT"
It contains 1600 Spindles, and 40 Looms. 275,000 yards
of Sheeting, are annually manufactured. During the^
half year ending July 1, 150,000 yard« were made.
The business of the establishment is transacted under
the name of the " Eagle Manufacturing Company."
Dryden's Satinet Factory. This factory was built
by Col. Artemas Dryden. It contains 300 Spindles and
8 looms. The same reason which silenced the spindles of
Mr. Jepherson's Satinet Factory, have stopped these,
during the last few months.
S. Damon, Esq. is the present owner.
Note. For many years previous to 1830, Col. Dryden.
manufactured woollen Carding Machines at this place,
which were sold in all parts of New England.
Lovell's Factory. Cotton Batting, and Candle Wick-
ing are manufactured at this Factory, by Dea. John
Lovell. For many years he has run a Carding Machine
for " Custom Work." Summary, Cotton Mills.
Unionville, Spindles— 1790, Looms— 36, Cloth— 275,000 y.
Northville, " 1892, " 36, " 250,000
auinepoxet, " 1400, « 40, " 250.000
Eagleville, "¦• 1800, '< 40-, " 275,000
1,050,000,

THINGS IN GENERAL.
The following is the copy of Gen. Lafayette's letter ta
Capt. Webb. [See Page 48.] Milton, May 15, 1781.
Dear Sir. — Your successful scarmish — Has aiforded
me the greatest pleasure, and I request you will receive
yourself, and present to your company, my best thanks
on the occasion.
Major Jicks is Requested to exert himself in finding;

148 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
out the position, size, and number of long boat Helen. —
lie either about City point or in the Appamatox river —
the taking of these boats is a more desirable object and
would produce good effects of a very extensive nature.
But I cannot give orders as the capture depends upon
the uncertain situation of local circumstances — Should
you think it advisable to undertake, precaution must be
taken to have your retreat secured at all events.
In case the enterprise is not executed to-nightr, I wish
you will return with your company in the cool of the
evening' — and if to-night you have any object in view
you will repair here to-morrow with the boats.
With the most sincere esteem.
Yours, Lafayette.

MORE REVOLUTIONARY SOLDIERS. [See Page 75.]
¦"Micah Harrington, Ephraim Holt, Solomon C. Cheney,
*Lemuel Harrington, John Black, Constant Webb,
*Nathan Harrington, Benjamin Mead, jun., Asa Greenwood,
*Lemuel Heywood, tAttai Hubbard, *Jonathan Flagg,
Samuel Heywood, Timothy Marshall, Francis Winch.

Temperance Societies. The constitution of the first
Temperance Society in Holden, was adopted, September
15, 1829. The Rev. H. Bardwell and Ethan Davis, Esq.
were active in its formation. The 3d article reads as
follows : " The members of this Society believing that
the use of intoxicating liquors is, for persons in health,
not only unnecessary, but hurtful, and that the practice
is the cause of forming intemperate habits and appetites,
that while it is continued, the evils of intemperance can
* Continental Soldiers ; t Died ia the Army.

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 14''>
never be prevented ; do therefore agree, that we will' ab
stain from the use of distilled, spirits, except as a medi
cine, in case of bodily infirmity, and that in all suitable
ways we will discountenance the use of them. in the com
munity." "If, however, individ-uals shall deem it neces.^ary to-
make any use of ardent spirits, they shall report the same
at the annual meetings of the Society."
When the friends of Temperance made the above agree
ment, behind them they could see, wilh Bunyan's Pil
grim, the city of Destruction, and the Slough of Despond.
Hill of Difficulty, however, was in full prospect before
them. For 12 long years they have been struggling up
that hill, undismayed by the difiiculties of the way. A-
bout two or three years since, they caught a glimpse of
the Delectable Mountains, "beautified with woods, vine
yards, fruits of all sorts, flowers also, with s-pj-itigs and
foitntains, very delectable to behold." When the Tem
perance Pilgrims had advanced thus far, they commenced
a discussion respecting total abstinence from all intoxica
ting drinks. " They went then until they caane to the De
lectable Mountains, so they went up to the mountains, to
behold the gardens, and orchards, the vineyards and'
FOUNTAINS of WATER, wlierc also they drank and washed.
themselves, and did freely eat, [not drink.,], of the vine
yards." From a peak of one of the Delectable Mountains, a.
flag is seen waving in the breeze, and upon its folds are.
inscribed,, "WASHINGTON TOTAL ABSTINENCE SOCIETY.."
1841.
Pilgrims are daily arriving.
13*

150 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
THAT their is to be sold at Public Auction on the Last Wednesday of
this Instant at two o'clock P. M. at the House of Lem'l Abbot
in Holden that Noted House in Said Town Known by the Name of the
Old Publick Meeting House ; their is a variety ef Excellent Board, no doubt,
and a Largo assortment of fine Timber, which the purchaser may make
Large improvements upon besides Some Glass and Nails all which will be
Sold togather or in Separate Lots as will best accommodate the purchaser or
pui'chasers, the Conditions of Sale will be made Known at the time and
place above mentioned. JAMES DAVIS •)
EBEN'R ESTABROOK } Committee
PAUL GOODALE > 4
March ye 16th 1791
N. B. Notice is hereby given to all persons that have any Demand, on
Said House as private property ; they are Desired to Remove the Same be
fore Said Day as no allowance will be made to any Person by the Town
that Shall Neglect the Same.

To Mr .Toseph Hubbard Treasurer for the town of Holden Sir Pursuant to.
an Older from the Select Men of this town to you to pay unto us the money
due for teaching the School these are iberefora to desire you to pay unto
John Young the Sum of three pounds twelve Shillings lawful money of this
Provance and his Receit Shall be your discharge for So much given under
hand this 2d day of May 1753. John Biglo ^ Com'leo For Tho
Samuel Hubbard > Town of Holden
Israel Davis J for the School
To Mr Joseph Hubbard Treasurer for the Town of Holden Sir Pursuant
(0 an order from the School Committee of this town to you to pay me the
Sum of three pounds twelve Shillings these are therefore to desire you lo
pay Lieunt Syprian Stevens the sum of eight Shillings lawf money of this
provance and for your So doing this shall be your Security or discharge for
so much given under my hand at Holden May ye 3d — 1763. John Young
These are to Certify whom it may concern that when I kept School at
Lieunt Steven's in Holden my wages was one pound four Shillings pr month
For three months vyhich was three pounds twelve Shillings in all of which
Mr Jotham Biglo paid me two pounds given under my hand this 12th of
Nov'br 1756 John Young

Holden February 11th. A. D. 1752. To mr Isariel Daives Tresurer for
ye Town of Holden ye present year Sir Plese to pay Saml. Peirce ye sum
of Eight Shillings Due to him for takeing care of ye meeting-honse this
present year and his endorsement shall be your Discharge for so much in
makeing up your accompts for ye Twenty five pounds now in ye hands or
mr James Gray — Constable for this year
John Biglo "i Select-men
Samuel Heywood J. of Holden

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 151
To mr Ben> Mead Constable Sir please to pay to Ithimor Goodenow too
Shilling and eight pence Lawful money for a Wild Cat head and is Endorse
Shall be your discharge for so much from Joseph Hubbard Town.
Des. the 13 1754 Treasurer

Holden Janew.y 15th 1754
To Mr. Benj.emen Mead Constable Sir pleas to pay to Decon Sam .11
Pearce the Sume of Eight Shillings for Taking Care of the Meeting House
in the year one Thousand Seven Hundred and fifty Three and his Endorse
Shall be your Discharge for so much in making np your aCoupt.
Joseph Hubbard Town Treasurer

Rec.d of Jona. Rice the Sum of Eight Shillings in full of the assessment
made by the Towns Commillee for the Raising men to Serve in the Conti
nental Army for Three years or During the War
David Fisk J- Chairman of the Committee
Holden April ye 14th 1777

the acount of the hiway work in year 1751 Jonathan Lowvel 7 days and.
a half Samuel benet 3 days Ephram benet 2 days and a half phinnias benet
2 days Josieah cheene 3 days phinnias Coll 2 days and a third part ofa day
Joseph trench 2 days and too thirds of a day \\ illiam Flagg 2 days and a
half William Flagg Survear

To mr Joseph Hubburd Town Trasuror
to pay to paul Raymond the Sum of fiv
and four pence for two grown Bares Whelps
Endorse Shall be your Discharge for So ma
ye account, Holden Feberarey the Tenth
John Biglo
Richard Fla
Israel Davis
[A part of this order is lost.]

This is to Sertiefye the Select men Cunstable & Town Tresurer that ws.
whose names are hear mentioned have worked out our Rates According to
Town Vote and hear is the names and the Sume worked By us
S D Q
Dee. c Samuel Peirce 9 10 1
Joseph Rugg 9 05 1
Moses Wheler 6 06 3
Jonathan Rice 7 10 2
Thia List is Directed to the Select men Cunstable & Town Treasurer of thia
Town of Holden given under my hand this first Day of October. 1750
Jonathan Jiice Survayour ot Highways

152 HISTORY OF HOLDEN..
The following correspondence passed between the Rev.,
Mr. Avery and two of his parishioners. It confirms.,
statements upon 56th page of the address. 1. In refer
ence to existing prejudices against instrumental Chh.
Music ; and 2. The mild and conciliatory manner of the
Rev. Mr. Avery. Sorne may have thought him mild to.
a fault — but like the- Country Parson, beautifully describ-.
ed.by Goldsmith, " And ev'n his failings lean'd lo virtue's side."
Holden,. Jan. y 2d. 17^0.
Dear Sirs — We are not insensible that true benevolence is a mark of the
Christian, & the glorv of the christian character, & as this divine principle
awakens the sincerest wishes, in those that possess it, for the happiness of
men in general, so especially for those they stand, in particular relation to.
This principle we would wish to cherish, & feel its hapjjy influence. How
then can we find, without concern that two of our Brethren, whom we loved
and respected, have withdrawn from our communion ? Were we conscious
of a wilful departure from the line of duty that had occasion'd this, we
should charge ourselves as highly culpable, & consider the call to penitence
as loud & pressing. But tho' we have done nothing designedly to offend our
Brethren ; we must still feel a sorrow, that ttey should-think themselves
justified in deserling oureommunion ; & we should esteem it a happiness, iP
we could now suggest any thing to influence them to a cordial return there
to. Here then we add that we presume the Church as such cannot be justly
charg'd with acting inconsistent with rule and order. True it is, that they
have voted one thing as to the mode of singing in the Congregation at one
time, & something difierent at another ; But have npt publick bodies of Chris
tians an undoubted right to do this if they think, it wise and best. The
Church as a body wished to have found you gralifipd and pleased ; but
they would not wisely go counter to what was the sentiment of the majority.
& shall this circumstance separate us on earth, when we are, or ought to be
all bound to the heavenly world ? Is it not best to strive after union in the
great essentials of religion, and to be candid and, forbearing as to lesser mat
ters. Lot us suppose then now for a moment, that in the true spiritof
candor you were returned, and statedly and cheerfully attended with us, that
when the mere musick of the voice was not so pleasing as you could wish,
that then your minds were deeply fixed on the great and interesting truths
oontain'd in the sacred psalm or hymn, and. your souls were rising in secret
harmony to God on the wings of faith and love. Would yoa. not reflect on
such opportunities afterward, with the sincerest pleasure, and regard them
as far from being lost? and would not this be some satisfaction that your ex
ample invited others to the house of God, and table of Christ ? We hope
you feel a solicitude for the interests of Religion, and how can we expect
these to flouriih if we neglect the publick worship, and ordinances of God ?
Let it then be our united prayer that the great adversary of souls, who de
lights to sow discord among Brethren, may not prevail, against us. Our
Stay together on earth is short, and transient indeed ; Let us away then with
coldness, estrangement, and disaffection, put on as ihe elect of God, bowels
of mercy, tenderness and humbleness of mind, and the Lord conduct us all-,

HISTORY OF HOLDEN. 153
safely to that plaee, where imperfection, error, and human frailty are forev
er at an end and where we may with infinite satisfaction harmonise in Songs
of praise to him that sitteth on the throne, and to the Lamb forever.
The Church was stopt on this day and it appeared that they were desirous
that the above should be sent to Mr.  and Mr. 
N. B. the Chh. would wish that if they have any thing to object against
any individual of the Church they would converse with them and endeavor
to satisfy themselves.

Holden, Jan'y. 11th 1791.
Rev'd Sir — I Rec'd sumthing from sum person, and take it to be from
your Self, but Do Not Know by your Signing because there is no name to
it: it bears Date January ye 2d, 1790, whether it is threw mistake or De
signedly i know not: on first consideration I thought to take no Notice of it:
button a second consideration I thought I would : The Letter which I re
ceived, seems to set forth that true benevolence is the mark and the glory
of the sincerest wishes in those that possess it : to which I answer and say
all that is very good : and Not to say any thing further on true Christian be
nevolence and charity towards our Brethren. I am Charged with Deserting
the Sacrement of the Lord's Supper, and signify without any just cause :
hear I might add that it is suggested, the Church have Voted sumthing Dif
ferent at one time to what they did at another and supposed it would have
been satisfactory to me, but what you grounded your hope upon I Can not
Conceive of: the mode of singing which is so much offensive lo me, that 1
cannot Glorify God, nor be Edifyed myself: and further the Church have
gon Conterary to the Covenant owned be Every Brother of the Church : in
the Covenant are these words promising Carefully to avoid all sinful stum
bling Blocks and Contentions to metion no more on the Covenant: the mere
musick as you Call it, is the Block in my way, as your Self and the Church
are Sensable of: this mere Music has No melody at all in it: and further I
would wish to se the Carrecter Discribed in the Letter subscribed to Mr 
and my self truly and faithfully observed,and Not Lord it over any ones Con-
cience: I answer for my Self and No other. Rev'd Sir I could with all
freedom Discorse with you on these matters if you will come to my House,
as my wife and one of my Daughters are Not able to attend the publick
worship, they seem very Desirous that you should pay them a visit, and if
you please, preach a Lecture on there Desire.

Holden, Jan'y 15,1791.
Dear Sir — I received a line from you of the 11th of Jan'y, 1791 , and by
this I was sorry to learn, that there were some mistakes in a line lately sent
to you and Mr S  It should have bore date Jan'y 2d, 1791, and I
meant to have informed you in my own name that it was the general desire
of those of the Church, that were at meeting on that day, that what was
contained in that letter should be sent to you and Mr S  , as coming from
them. It has been matter of pain to me lo find your seat and that of Mr.
S  vacant at our communion. I have done nothing personally and de
signedly inconsistent with the most tender solicitude for your truest interest.
Your edification and improvement is an object of my sincere desire : But at
the same time, I must freely and honestly, say that 1 cannot think in some
respects as yoa do: Supposing the greater part of the Church, had thought

154 HISTORY OF HOLDEN.
with yon as to the singing, chosen the tunes that yon like best, and to have
the psalm read as is most agreable to you; that some of the Church had com
plained, and said that they would not be edified by such singing, and that
it was laying a stumbling block before them to sing after that sort, would
you believe it was, and in order to please them, would you be willing to
lay aside the singing that was agreable to you. I presume that you would
not, and still that yon would think that they ought not, on this account to
forsake the communion of the Church. If the musick. was as-disagreable
to me as to you, I persuade myself that I could, notwithstanding, find edifi
cation in the house of God, I could- resolve to have my mind raised above
the mere sound of the voice, and let the great truths of the psalm or hymn
engross my attention. If the music is ever so agreable to my ear, yet if I
pay no regard to the truths that are sung, I am not edifyed as I aught. The
main thing is to have the heart in tune, rightly impressed, and influenced.
Why should we let the mere voice, if not agreable,,destroy our devotions,
and prevent our edification. I wish Sir,, to-have your mind, and my own
above being discomposed by small things. And that we, and others might
walk together in the unity of the spirit, and bond of peace. I am persua
ded that if you would overlook, forget, or rise above things that have been
or are disagreable to you, you would find more satisfaction in it, than yoa
can in suffering things to chaff your mind so as to keep you from the House
of God. As lo lording it over your conscience, or any man's, 1 trust I
have not the most distant wish for it. What I desire and pray fo' is the edifi
cation of the Church in general. It has been the bane of Christians in va
rious ages to disagree about the circumstantials of Religion. Every member
of a Church has a right to use every fair argument in order to have things
agreeable to hismind; but is it not more noble and Christianlike to deny our
selves of some things to prevent a division of the Church, than to be so
strenuous as to break off it, because every thing is not agreable. Good.
men may differ in sentiment, Pau.1 and Barnabas did, brtt difference in judg
ment should not destroy mutual love. The Church in general, sincerely
wish that you and Mr S  ¦. could see things in a difierent light. " Yoa,
subscribe yourself a distressed Brother." I truly wish yon relief and com
fort, a serene old age, and at the close of it, a peaceful departure of life to a
better world. I can sympathize with you in your afflictions by reason of
ye sickness and weakness of, some of your family, and am sorry that other
troubles should be added to these, and I give as the sober sentiment of
my heart, that if you would overcome that aversion you have to soma
things in the house of God, and could find your heart reconciled to a cheer
ful attendance on the duties of God's house, that you would rejoice in it
hereafter as a real happiness. I will endeavor to preach a Lecture at your
house on thursday next, at one o'clock in the Afternoon, and to come to
your house in the forenoon.
I am with all sincerity and friendship, Yours, &o.,
JOSEPH AVERY.

ERRATA.
Page 49, Hue 26, for ' Bennett,' read ' Amos Howard, jr.'
" 60, line 5, for ' 6s 6d,' read ' Is 6d,'
" 52, line 9, after < iiihabitants ' insert ¦ of this town,'
" 61, linfe 11, for ' any blessings,' read ' fleoBera's blessings,' (some
copies correct.)
" 72, line 27, for ' Inmaii,' read 'Sumner.'
" 95, line 1, for ' 87 ' read ' 88 ;' line 2; insetl 'Paul Goodale,
1781—87;' line 18, r«ad ' 1801—5.'
" 96, line 10, read ' Thomas J. Davis, 1826, 34, 35, 36, 40, 41 ;'
line 13, for ' 1822 ' read ' 1827.'
« 98, line 7, for ' 1783' read ' 1793;' line 8, for • 34 ' read ' 24;,
" 99, for line 13, insert ' Samuel Damon, 1807.'
" 100, line 16. for '1831' read «1836.'
" 143, line 20, after '.banking 'insert ' institutions.'