YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY Bought with the income of the AZARIAH ELDRIDGE MEMORIAL FUND This book was digitized by Microsoft Corporation in cooperation with Yale University Library, 2008. You may not reproduce this digitized copy ofthe book for any purpose other than for scholarship, research, educational, or, in limited quantity, personal use. You may not distribute or provide access to this digitized copy (or modified or partial versions of it) for commercial purposes. ILLUSTRATED HISTORY -OF- Kennebec @ounty MAINE 1799- 1625 1892 EDITORS HEHRY D. KIHGSBURY siheoh'l. DEYO Resident Contributors JAMES W. BRADBURY WILLIAM PENN WHITEHOUSE SAMUEL L. BOARDMAN WILLIAM B. LAP HAM HIRAM K. MORRELL LENDALL TLTCOMB J. CLAIR MINOT JAMES M. LARRABEE HENRY S. WEBSTER CHARLES E. NASH JOHN L. STEVENS HOWARD OWEN RUE US M. JONES ASBURY C. STILPHEN HARRY H. COCHRANE GEORGE UNDERWOOD ORRIN F. SPROUL ALBION F. WATSON New York H. W. BLAKE & COMPANY- 94 Reade St. 1892 p- Edition Limited to 1600 Prints. -N COPYRIGHTED 1892, BY H. W. BLAKE & CO. r Li : dl 0 4 J CS (A. H. Ritchie. Engravers, I Hazlett Gilmour. I A. C. Shipley. Artist, Frank M. Gilbert. Printer, J. Henry Probst. Binders, T. Russell & Son. INTRODUCTION. HISTORY is a record of human experience. Human acts are its sources, its forces, its substance, its soul. Individual life is its unit; collective biography its sum total. This book is an effort to preserve some of the staple facts in the lives of the men and women of Kennebec county. Those who have attempted such work know its difficulties; those who have not cannot understand them. Early local history is, at best, but a collection of memories and tra ditions, with an occasional precious bit of written data. Of necessity, such chains have many missing links. The questioner is so frequently told that had he but cortie ten — or twenty — years ago, such and such an one, now gone, could have told him so much. Those people then would surely have said the same of their predecessors. So if, for the printed page, we get what we can when we can, the reader has the best obtainable. Happily, both in character and extent, the matter here given greatly excels the original expectations and plans of the publishers. In addition to the historical matter, in which they take genuine pride, they regard as of great importance the genealogical and biographical matter. The facts of life and generation are beyond question of superla tive worth. There is no more significant tendency of civilization than the growing attention paid to making more detailed records of family statistics. Scarcely a New England family of long, vigorous con tinuance can be found, some loyal member of which has not — at great cost of time and often of money — prepared an approximate genealogy. Every effort at local history puts in imperishable form the priceless annals of the past. The recollections and experiences taken from the lips of the aged is so much rescued from oblivion. Every promi nent figure in the realms of business, science, art or profession has IV INTRODUCTION. passed through the uneventful periods of childhood and youth, often- in some obscure locality; and there is not a town in Kennebec county whose pride in having produced and whose interest in watching or relating the careers of its honored sons and daughters do not still make its air richer and its sunshine brighter. While writing these last lines on a winter's day near the close of the second year of labor on the work in hand, we wish in behalf of their posterity, whom we have tried to serve, to thank the good people of Kennebec who have so kindly and faithfully cooperated with us in every way to make this volume worthy of its title. Besides to twenty writers whose names these chapters bear, we gladly acknowledge our obligation to more than twenty hundred who have, in personal inter views or in correspondence, or both, done what they could to leave for coming times this record of their county's past — this monument to what it is. Augusta, Me., December, 1892. ^g-^ffV*^ TABLE OF CONTENTS. Chapter I. ^General View. By Hiram K. Mor rell 1 Chapter II. The Indians of the Kennebec. By Capt. Charles E. Nash 9 Chapter III. Sources of Land Titles. By Len- dall Titcomb, Esq 72 Chapter IV. Civil History and Institutions 78 Chapter V. Military History '. . . 109 Chapter VI. Military History (Concluded) 122 Chapter VII. Industrial Resources 175 Chapter VIII. Agriculture and Live Stock. By Samuel L. Boardman 187 Chapter IX. Travel and Transportation 225 Chapter X. The Newspaper Press. By Mr. Howard Owen 238 Chapter XI. Literature and Literary People. By Thomas Addison 254 Chapter XII. The Society of Friends. By Rufus M. Jones 269 Chapter XIII. History of the Courts. By Judge William Penn Whitehouse 297 Chapter XIV. The Kennebec Bar. By James W. Bradbury, LL.D 308 Chapter XV. The Medical Profession 347 Chapter XVI. Augusta. By Capt. Charles E. Nash. 381 Chapter XVII. Augusta (Continued) 405 Chapter XVIII. Augusta (Concluded) 427 Chapter XIX. Hallowell. By Dr. William B. Lapham 489 Chapter XX. Town of Farmingdale. By A. C. Stilphen, Esq 517 Chapter XXI. Town of Winslow. By Henry D. Kingsbury 537 Chapter XXII. City of Waterville. By Henry D. Kingsbury 568 Chapter XXIII. City of Waterville (Concluded) 580 Chapter XXIV. The City of Gardiner 601 Chapter XXV. Town of West Gardiner 668 Chapter XXVI. Town of Litchfield. By H. D. Kingsbury 684 Chapter XXVII. Town of Pittston 712 Chapter XXVIII. Town of Randolph 738 Chapter XXIX. Town of Chelsea 749 Chapter XXX. Town of Monmouth. By Harry H. Cochrane 764 Chapter XXXI. Town of Wayne 807 VI TABLE OF CONTENTS. Chapter XXXII. Town of Winthrop 826 Chapter XXXIII. Town of Manchester 875 Chapter XXXIV. Town of Readfield. By Henry D. Kingsbury 890 Chapter XXXV. Town of Mount Vernon 930 Chapter XXXVI. Town of Fayette. By George Un derwood, Esq 953 Chapter XXXVII. Town of Vienna 974 Chapter XXXVIII. Town of Rome 988 Chapter XXXIX. Town of Belgrade. By J. Clair Minot 993 Chapter XL. Town of Sidney 1034 Chapter XLI. Town of Oakland 1064 Chapter XLII. Town of Vassalboro 1095 Chapter XLIII. Town of China H3& Chapter XLIV. Town of Windsor 1172 Chapter XLV. Town of Albion 1194 Chapter XLVI. Town of Benton 1218 Chapter XLVII. Town of Clinton ' 1243 ILLUSTRATIONS. Adams, Enoch, M.D 348 Adams, Hermon H 1018 Albion, Map of 1202 Allen, E. C 452 Asylum for Insane 96 Augusta, Settlers' Map 387 Ayer, John 1076 Bailey, Hannah J., Residence 852 Bailey, Moses 853 Barnard, Mrs. Henrietta M., Res. . 648 Barton, Asher H 1231 Barton, Asher H., Residence 1232 Bassett, Alexander, Residence.... 1162 Bassett, Jonathan 1162 Bean, Emery O 316 Benson, Benj. Chandler 1079 Besse, Charles K 980 Billings, Oliver 965 Billings Homestead 965 Blaine, James G 456 Blaisdell, Elijah 1233 Blake, Fred K., Residence 795 Blake, Henry M 350 Blake Homestead 795 Blake, William P 1081 Bodwell, Joseph R 185 Boutelle, Nathaniel R 351 Boutelle, Timothy 308 Bowman, Sifamai 625 Bradbury, James W 31S Brooks, Samuel S 466 Brown, Frederick 1 909 Brown, Frederick I. , Res. and Store. 908 Brown, George 756 Burbank, Silas 3 5 2 Burleigh, Edwin C 82 Bussell, John 1124 Butman, James O., Farm Res 910 Cabin, " Uncle Tom's." 705 Capitol, at Augusta 80 Carleton, Leroy T 324 Carr, Albert C, Residence 855 Carr, Daniel 832 Chelsea, Settlers' Map of 750 China, Sketch Map of 1140 Christ's Church, Gardiner 030 Cobb, Chandler F., Stock Farm. . . 211 Cobbosseecontee Lake 880 Coburn Classical Institute 100 Colby University 98 TABLE OF CONTENTS. Vll Colcord, John B., Farm Residence. 1235 Collins, Jason 234 Collins, John 672 Comfort Publishing House 443 Cony, Daniel 469 Cony High School 425 Cony, Samuel 468 Copsecook Paper Mills 615 Cornish, Colby C 556 Court House, Augusta 79 Crooker, Leander J ' 354 Crosby, George H., Residence 1209 Cumston, Charles M 793 Cumston, Charles M., Residence.. 792 Cushnoc, Plan of 1761 387 Dingley, J. B 647 Dodge, Howard W 1260 Doherty, Charles W 434 Druillette's, Fr. Gabriel, Autogr'h. 33 East Winthrop, Village Plan 849 Eaton, Joseph 560 Emerson, Luther D 1084 Fairfax, Settlers' Map 1202 Father Rale's Monument 65 Faught, Albert, Residence 1052 Fifield, Joseph S 883 Fifield, Joseph S. , Farm Res 883 Fogg, Samuel G., Farm Res 912 Fort Western, Vicinity of 392 Friends' Meeting House, East Vas- salboro 276 Friends' Meeting House, Winthrop. 292 Gannett & Morse Concern 443 Gardiner High School 638 Gardiner Savings Bank 627 Giddings, Wooster P 358 Giddings, Wooster P., Residence.. 358 Girls' Reform School 104 Gott, John M 824 Gower, John 857 Gray, Joshua 608 Guptill, D. F 562 Haley, Eben D 180 Hallowell Social Library 502 Hammond, Carlos 1054 Hanscom, David 1237 Hanson, James H 588 Harlow, Henry M 95 Harriman, Benjamin W 914 Harriman, Benj. W., Residence. . . 915 Harvey Homestead 917 Harvey, William, Birthplace 917 Hathaway, Charles F 589 Hewins, George E. , Residence 472 Hewins Homestead ' 472 Hewins, Daniel 473 Haynes, J. Manchester 470 High School, Gardiner 638 Hobbs, Josiah S 105 Hodgdon, Elbridge G 1262 Hodges, Albert 564 Hodges, Albert, Residence 564 Hodges, Barnum 564c Holway, Oscar 474 Hopkins, Myrick 649 Hopkins, Myrick, Homestead 648 Howard, Oakes 860 Hussey, Ben. G., Residence 1114 Hussey, Orrett J., Residence 1128 Industrial School for Girls 104 Insane, Hospital for the 96 Jail, Kennebec County 79 Jewett, Hartley W 532 Jones, Levi 862 Jones Plantation, Plan of 1140 Kendrick, Cyrus 362 Kennebec Court House 79 Kennebec County Jail 79 Kent, Elias H., Residence 968 Kents Hill Seminary 102 Kilbreth, Sullivan 887 Knight, Austin D 512 Ladd, Harvey 919 Lamb, William 1264 Lane, Samuel W 476 Lapham, Eliphalet H 731 Lapham, William B 260 Lawrence, Charles 618 Lawrence, Sherburn 620 Lawrence Homestead 619 Lewis, Allen E 740 Library, Hallowell 502 Lithgow, L. W 439 Longfellow, George A 864 Loring, Henry S 1058 MacDonald, Roderick 920 Maine Wesleyan Seminary 102 Manley, Joseph H 478 Marston, David E 364 Minot, George E 1024 Minot, George E., Residence 1024 Mitchell, Benjamin G 592 Monument, Father Rale's 65 Morrell, Arch 656 Vill TABLE OF CONTENTS. Morrell, Hiram K 262 Morrell, James S 1213 Mt. Pleasant Stock Farm 211 Nason, Charles H 445 Nichols, Thomas B 1130 North, James W 479 Oak Grove Seminary 280 " Oak Hill "—Billings Homestead. . 965 " Oak Trees "—Gov. Williams' Res. 487 Owen, Howard, Cottage 880 Packard, Henry 868 Parsons, David E 366 Rale, Fr. Seb., Autograph of 53 Richardson, Alton 1268 Robbins, George A 1134 Robbins, George A., Residence 1134 Rowell, Eliphalet 514 Sampson, Thomas B 679 Sanborn, Bigelow T 97 Savings Institution, Gardiner 627 Searls, William T 762 Shores, George E 595 Sidney, Sketch Map of 1035 Small, Abner R 1089 Smith, David T 704 Smith, E. H. W 481 Smith, William R 482 Snell, William B 332 Snow, Albion P 371 Springer, David S 706 State House, Augusta 80 St. Augustine Church, Augusta. . . . 436 St. Joseph's Church, Gardiner 635 St. Mary's Church, Augusta 432 Stevens, Greenlief T 92 Stevens Homestead 1028 Sturgis, Ira D 484 Strout, Albion K. P., Residence. . . 373 Taylor, Joseph 1030 Thayer, Frederick C 375 "The Elms"— Res. Geo. H. Crosby. 1209 Thing, Daniel H 949 Thomas, Joseph B 736 Tinkham, Andrew W 804 Titcomb, Samuel 336 Torsey, Henry P 926 Towne, Benjamin F., Residence . . 567 Trott, Freeman 664 "Uncle Tom's Cabin." 705 Underwood, Joseph H 971 Underwood Homestead 972 Vassalboro, Plan of 1096 Vining, Marcellus 1192 Ware, John 598 Webb, E. F 338 West Gardiner Map 669 Whitehouse, Seth C 486 Whitehouse, William Penn 297 Whitehouse Homestead 1137 Whitmore, Chadbourn W 378 Whitmore, Nathaniel M 342 Whitmore, Stephen 376 Whittier Homestead 984 Williams, Joseph H 487 Williams, Joseph H., Residence. . . 487 Williams, Reuel 310 Williams, Seth 166 Winslow, Map of 538 Winslow, Alfred 1092 Woodbury, John 710 Woods, Jacob S 986 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. CHAPTER XXIV. THE CITY OF GARDINER. Settlement. — First Comers. — Incorporation as a Town. — Statistics. — Early Mills. — Present Manufactories. — South Gardiner. — Old Settlers. — Lumber Firms. — Old Stores. — Civil Officers. — Incorporation of City. — Banks. — Gas Com pany. — Water Company. — Churches. — Schools. — Libraries. — Cemetery. — Lodges. — Societies — Personal Paragraphs. CITIES, like events, are the results of causes. Gardiner city is the natural product of the water power of the Cobbosseecontee river. It was organized by the laws of nature, and is run by the force of gravity. Its aggregation of people is due to the opportu nities here afforded for employment. Mills and manufactories are the bee-hives of civilization, and fortunate is that locality which furnishes the necessary conditions under which men and women can come in swarms and find work and wages. Mr. Emerson has said that " every institution is the lengthened shadow of one man." With some unimportant modification that re mark may apply to this city. If ever a town had a founder, this city was begotten by Dr. Sylvester Gardiner, many of whose lineaments it still perpetuates. Industry, economy, order, thrift, thoroughness, de spatch, education, morality, were qualities whose seeds Dr. Sylvester Gardiner certainly planted wherever he lived. The history of Gardiner properly commences with the incorpora tion of the Proprietors of the Kennebec Purchase, among whom was Doctor Gardiner, born in Rhode Island in 1707. He chose the medi cal profession and settled in Boston, where as a physician and drug gist he became rich. The fact that his father and his grandfather were born and raised in New England would tend to a reasonable belief that the English blood of his great-grandfather, Joseph, had become fairly Americanized, but after eight years spent in England and France completing his professional education, he returned home, socially, politically and religiously, a thorough Englishman. He had a clear, active mind, exact observation and information, a compre- 39 602 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. hensive ambition, and a high degree of energy and business talent. These qualities were recognized and endorsed by his associates, who made him moderator at all their meetings, and the manager and ex ecutive officer of the company. It had been very difficult to obtain actual settlers. So efficient did Doctor Gardiner prove in finding and inducing new families to try the new region, that the very next year he was granted a large part of what is now the business portion of Gardiner city, including the famous Cobbosseecontee falls and water privileges. In honor of his services the locality was named Gardinerston and more land was granted him till his possessions in 1770 amounted to over 12,000 acres. His energy is shown by the following list of practical, valuable me chanics and others collected at Falmouth, Me., in 1760, and brought by water to Gardinerston: Mr. Thomes, a builder of grist mills; Ben jamin Fitch, a saw-millwright; James Winslow, a wheelwright, and Ezra Davis, James and Henry McCausland and William Philbrook — the last four men bringing their families. The next spring these men built the Cobbossee grist mill, so long and so widely known as the only place to get grinding done in all the Kennebec valley. The same summer they built the Great House, that for the next fifty years — as a tavern — was the most noted build ing in town. Among its first landlords were: James Stackpole, Ben jamin Shawr, Pray, Bowman, Randall, Widow Longfellow and E. Mc Lellan. The upper part contained a hall where religious meetings were often held. The building of mills of various kinds — saw mills, a fulling mill, potash works, brick kiln, stores and many dwellings — soon followed. Samuel Oldham received one hundred acres of land as an inducement to build and burn a kiln of brick. In 1762 Solomon Tibbitts was induced by Doctor Gardiner to bring his family of nine children to the west side of the river, where they settled on Plaisted hill. Abiathar Tibbitts, one of the first native children in town, was born there. Ichabod Plaisted came in 1763; Benaiah Door from Lebanon, N. H., settled on Plaisted hill a year or two later. Samuel Berry was another early comer. His house was near dam No. 1. Captain Nathaniel Berry, a great hunter, was a permanent settler; William Everson, the first schoolmaster, came in 1766; Paul and Stephen Kenney also came in 1766, and Nathaniel Denbow, James Cox, Peter Hopkins, William Law, Dennis Jenkins and Abner Marson in 1768. John North was one of the first Irish settlers. In 1774 his son Joseph purchased the old post office. Joseph North represented this section in the provincial congress in 1774-5. He was an able, worthy man. The revolutionary war came on and Doctor Gardiner's love of England took him off with the British army. He was a tory and never returned to enjoy his possessions, but settled after peace was THE CITY OF GARDINER. 603 declared, in Newport, R. I., where he practiced his profession till his death in 1786. His real property, which was confiscated, was finally restored to his heir and grandson, Robert Hallowell, to whom the doctor willed his Kennebec estate on condition that he should take the name of Gardiner, which he was allowed to do by act of the legis lature in 1802. Robert Hallowell Gardiner was born in England in 1782, and upon arriving at suitable age took possession of his estate. Eleazar Tarbox came in 1774 and raised seven sons and two daugh ters. He married Phebe, daughter of James Stackpole, who kept the Great House. Andrew Bradstreet and his sons, Joseph and Simon, came in 1780, engaged in lumbering and soon had a saw mill and a store near the upper dam. Captain Samuel Grant, a revolutionary soldier who fought at Bunker Hill, came to Gardinerston at the close of the war. He was the father of Peter Grant and died in Clinton and was buried here. Benjamin Shaw came to Gardiner in 1783 and was proprietor of the Great House. He settled at New Mills in 1790, where he had a saw mill and a store. The Kennebec valley charmed General Henry Dearborn as he was passing through it during his eight years' service in the revolutionary war, and in 1785 he purchased land of William Gardiner and made this village his home till he was appointed secretary of war in 1801 , when he removed to Washington. He represented the Kennebec dis trict in congress two terms, and was the most distinguished citizen who ever lived in Gardiner. There was at that time a whipping post back of the Great House, to which the general, who acted as a local magistrate or judge, was obliged to consign many unruly culprits. In 1785 Doctor Gardiner's son, William, was a noted man here, and boarded at the Great House. He was a jolly fellow, who cared more for hunting and fishing than for business. Henry Smith, who became the noted tavern keeper at " Smithtown," on the east side of the river, then lived near General Dearborn. R. E. Nason was captain of the first military company and was succeeded by Major Seth Gay. Wil liam Barker, Samuel Norcross, Ezekiel Pollard, William Wilkins, a school teacher, and Sherebiah Town, the miller, were early settlers. Simeon Goodwin, an active, able man, then lived at New Mills, from whence he soon removed to Purgatory, which soon became known as Goodwin's Mills. Gardiner Williams, Noah Nason, a mill man, and Nathaniel B. Dingley were also here at that time. Major Seth Gay built the first wharf and General Dearborn estab lished the ferry, in 1786. He loved to draw a seine near the mouth of the Cobbosseecontee, where shad, herring, salmon and sturgeon were more than abundant. Jonathan Winslow loved to t'ell how he caught sixteen big salmon one Sunday morning before breakfast. Ebenezer Byram came from Bridgewater to build General Dearborn's house, which stood where the Library building is. David Young came in 604 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. 1781; Leonard Cooper, Jonathan Jewett and Burnham Clark in 1783; Daniel Jewett in 1785; David and Reuben Moore, Jedediah Jewett, Dominicus Wakefield in 1787, and David Dunham in 1788. Within the next five years the new comers were: Ebenezer Thomas, Abiel Pitts, Joshua Little, Jonathan Moody, Andrew Har low, Jonathan Redman, Hubbard Eastman, Seth Fitch, David Blair, Daniel Evans, Bolton Fish, Samuel Little, Peter Lord, Asa Moore, Robert Shirley, Timothy Clark, Isaac Hatch, Jere. Dudley, John Butler, Allen Landers, Charles Witherell, Richard Davis, Elijah Clarke, Edward and Thomas Palmer and James Pickard. In 1792 the small pox became epidemic here, but the people de cided by vote that inoculation was not expedient. Mr. Hallowell brought the first wheel chaise to town and General Dearborn brought the first wagon. In 1806 Rufus Gay paid $135 for a new chaise. Incorporation. — The legislature was petitioned in 1778 to incor porate the plantation of Gardinerston, and in 1779 an act was passed incorporating it into the town of Pittston. In the year 1803 all the territory of the old town of Pittston lying on the west side of the Ken nebec, with the inhabitants therein, was by act of legislature " incor porated into a distinct town by the name of Gardiner." By the pro visions of the act Jedediah Jewett was directed to issue his warrant to some principal inhabitant of said town to notify the people to assemble for the purpose of choosing town officers, " and to transact such other matters and things as may be necessary and lawful at such meeting." The warrant was issued to Dudley B. Hobart, who called the first town meeting in the old Episcopal meeting house, March 21, 1803. Some of the offices as then designated sound a little queer now. They elected tythingmen, hog reeves and a fish committee. April 1st the town voted to raise $800 for highways, $200 for preach ing, $500 for schooling and $500 for debts and expenses of the town.* April 4, 1814, it was " voted not to raise any more money for preach ing," and after the next year " tythingmen " were not included in the list of town officers. Statistics. — At the time Gardiner was incorporated there were but one or two houses on Church hill, which was covered with a dense growth of pines. Water street had but one or two stores, and the Cobbosseecontee ran most of the way from its sources to the Kenne bec, through unbroken forests. In 1820 the town of Gardiner raised 2,576 bushels of corn, 1,056 bushels of wheat, 910 bushels of oats and 239 bushels of peas and beans. There were 162 houses, 195 barns, 86 horses, 315 oxen, 441 cows and 337 swine; 1,485 acres of meadow yielded * The money raised for preaching was by vote appropriated to the Episcopal church, but those attending other churches could control the amount of preach ing tax paid by them. Ichabod Plaisted attended to the Methodist proportion, and James Lord and Abraham Cleves to the Baptist claims. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 605 .1,500 tons of hay. The average wealth of each person in Gardiner that year was 60 per cent, above the average of each person in Maine. In 1830 it was voted to allow the town treasurer but twenty dollars for his services, and that $1,800 should be raised for town expenses and supporting the poor, $1,400 for schooling, and $2,500 for roads and bridges. The population of Gardiner in 1850, before West Gardiner was set off, was 6,486. It contained 195 farms, that produced 124 bushels of wheat, 7,962 bushels of corn, 5,542 bushels of oats, 700 bushels of bar ley, 3,900 tons of hay, 2,780 pounds of beeswax and honey, 8,340 pounds of cheese and 50,000 pounds of butter. There were 988 houses, 300 horses, 600 cows, 326 oxen, 940 sheep and 189 swine. There were sawed 15,000,000 feet of lumber, 3,500,000 of clapboards, and 12,000,000 shingles. The manufacture of cloth was: 5,000 yards of flannel, 8,000 yards of satinet, and 20,000 yards cassimere; 50,000 sheep skins and 45,600 sides of leather were handled. Some of the other productions were: 10,500 pairs of boots and shoes, 12,000 barrels of flour, and 350,- 000 brick. There were nine physicians, one dentist, ten lawyers, two printing offices, two book stores, three banks, three apothecaries, three hotels, two jewelers, two hat, cap and fur stores, six livery stables, four stove and tin stores, one bakery, one harness maker, two furniture manufactories, one sail loft, two crockery stores, one extensive pottery, one plaster mill, one grist mill, one woolen factory, two machine shops, one foundry, one tannery, one paper mill, three ship yards, seven ready made clothing stores, three eating houses, six boot and shoe stores, six millinery stores, two carriage factories, twenty-six groceries and five dry goods stores. There were fifteen up and down saws, three sash, door and blind makers, thirteen shingle machines, one last maker, three cabinet makers, nine blacksmiths and two commission mer chants. Early Mills. — When the idle flow of the Cobbosseecontee was arrested by the hand of industry and the stout form of wooden dam No. 1 was stretched across its path, the first task assigned to the tur bid rambler, undoubtedly, was to turn the crank of an old fashioned saw mill. The pioneer mill had so much work that a second one was added, and the two sawed the beams and boards for Cobbossee grist mill, which was built on the east end of the dam in 1761. For the next fifty years it can probably be said with truth, of saw mills there was no end. Where there was a saw mill is not so much of a question as where there wasn't one; dam No. 1 had thirteen run ning at one time. Two or three generations of saw mills were built, worn out and replaced with new ones, on ground back of where Bar stow & Nickerson's store now stands. Three generations of saw mills have also flourished on the upper or reservoir dam. The first was built so early that its successor, built by General Dearborn and hired 606 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. by Joseph Bradstreet before 1790, gave that locality the name of New Mills, which it still retains. This upper dam, where nothing stands now but the pump house of the water company, was a busy place for eighty or ninety years pre ceding 1850. Besides the saw mills mentioned, one of which was run by Rivereus Hooker, there were a foundry (where John Stone made the first cast iron plows in this part of Maine), a machine shop and lead pipe works. Mr. Flagg, of Hallowell, had charge of the forge and made vessel anchors, also nails that sold at sixteen cents a pound. There was a long row of low buildings for the storage of charcoal to use in the different shops. There were lead pipe works, carriage shops and shingle factories, and a Mr. Wythe had an ashery near by. Later there was a match factory, in a part of which Reuben Hazleton had a carriage shop, and another building in which Buffum & Collins made sash, doors and blinds. These buildings, with a saw mill, were all destroyed by fire in 1849. The match factory at that time belonged to A. & C. H. Andrews. The lower dam, now No. 1, and the first saw and grist mills, were probably built in 1760 and 1761, by Dr. Sylvester Gardiner, who estab lished the policy that was followed for the next seventy-five years by his successors, of building and holding the title of all dams, mills, and of as much adjoining real estate as possible. These mills were rented to practical men, who accepted the best terms they could get, and did their best to live and thrive. The memory of men now alive does not cover much that happened previous to 1820. In 1822 the present stone dam No. 1 was begun, and completed the third year after. John Stone, a well remembered blacksmith who came from Kennebunk to Gardiner, took the job, and his son John, born in Gardiner in 1806 and still living here in the en joyment of good health and a clear mind, worked with his father in building that dam. About the same time R. H. Gardiner built the stone mill on the corner of Water and Bridge streets, that is the first grist mill within the memory of what are now the older inhabitants. Mr. Stone is about the only person who remembers the old wooden grist mill, that stood on the opposite corner, on a part of the site now covered by the brick grist mill. This may have been, and probably was, the mill to which the first settlers came from so large a territory previous to 1800. The old wooden mill was run by Daniel Woodward. He was also a plow maker; that is he made the wood work, and John Stone, who had machinery in his blacksmith shop, including a trip hammer run by water power, made the iron part. When the stone grist mill was ready for use Michael Woodward was the miller for many years. He was succeeded by Benjamin Johnson, who lost a leo- and had to take up lighter business. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 607 After Johnson, Smith Maxcy, who made millers of four of his five boys, carried on the stone mill till it was succeeded by the brick mill in 1844. Hundreds of people are still living who remember him in both mills. No man had more friends, or better deserved them. A few Will recollect that Benjamin Johnson kept a variety store in the old stone mill which stood some years after grinding in it was stopped. The old wooden grist mill was used for a plow factory by John Stone and Daniel Woodward after the stone mill began grinding. After that it was removed to where Holmes' works are. The old oakum mill on dam No. 2 was run by Master Sprague. That was the end of the street then; very large pines grew in that locality. Manufactures. — Henry Bowman in 1846 built on dam No. 2 a saw mill that was owned by the firm of Clay, Dinsmore & Co., composed of Bradbury T. Dinsmore, of Anson, Richard and William Clay, and Charles and George Moore. Joshua Gray came to Gardiner in 1844, and after clerking for this firm less than two years bought George Moore's interest in the saw mill. Richard Clay died in 1848, the firm dissolved and Henry T. Clay & Co. bought the business and carried it on. Mr. Gray soon purchased an interest in what was first an oakum mill, then a starch mill, and was converted by Frost & Sargent into a shingle and clapboard mill. Frost & Gray continued this kind of work five or six years, when John Frost sold his interest to Townsend, and Gray & Townsend lost the mill by fire. At the same time the firm of J. Gray & Co., composed of Joshua Gray, John Frost and Brad bury T. Dinsmore, leased on the river below the railroad, a steam mill that was burned after four years' operation. Before the civil war Gray & Dinsmore bought Mr. Gray's present mill of Clay & Co., and several years later Mr. Gray bought his part ner's interest. In 1870 he also bought dam No. 2, for $22,000, and im mediately rebuilt and enlarged the mill, and in 1876 made his son George a partner, as Joshua Gray & Son. This firm, long known as one of the leaders in the lumber manufacture, is cutting over five million feet a year, in which work thirty-five men are steadily em ployed. Mr. Gray has never been allowed to give all his energies to his private business. His fellow-citizens early perceived that the clear judgment and unswerving honor constantly apparent in the manage ment of his own affairs would be invaluable in the public service. In 1867 they made him a member of the, city council, an alderman in 1868, and to fill a vacancy he was the same year made mayor, and reelected in each of the three ensuing years. While mayor he was twice chosen to the state senate, serving in 1869 and 1870. Private corporations, always alert for the best officials obtainable, have also asked and obtained the benefits of his experience and counsel. He was one of the original directors of the Oakland Bank 608 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. and has been president of the Oakland National Bank since 1871. He was for years a director of the Kennebec Log Driving Company, part of the time its president, and has been the only president of the Oak land Manufacturing Company. To his long life in Gardiner the atten tion of young men may most appropriately and profitably be called. Patient hard work, sound common sense, unswerving tenacity of pur pose, unbending honesty of practice, a genial nature, a smiling face, a friendly hand, are some of the traits and characteristics of a man who has commanded the respect and won the kindest consideration of all whose good fortune it has been to know him. He has always been a pillar of strength in the republican party and in the Univer salist church. Mr. Gray is the son of George and Margaret (Dinsmore) Gray, and the grandson of George Gray, who came from England to Starks, Me., where he raised a family. George, born 1785, died 1868, and Mar garet, born 1794, died 1869, were the parents of eleven children: Joshua, Calvin, William D., Rachael, Edwin, Betsey, Gardner, Re becca, Benjamin D., Paulina D. and Albina. Five of these are living. Joshua, the eldest of the eleven, was born November 14, 1814. On the 25th of June, 1849, he married Ploma M., daughter of Ephraim Currier, of Norridgewock, Me., and settled in Gardiner, where Mr. Gray had already lived five years. Here their children were raised: George, born November 22, 1850, now in business with his father; Fred, born May 9, 1852, now living in Indianapolis, la.; Charles H., born October 4, 1858, at home, and Harriet C, now Mrs. Benjamin B. Clay, of Minneapolis, Minn. Prior to 1834 the Gardiner system of saw mills on dam No. 1, nearest to the mouth of the Cobbosseecontee, embraced six complete mills under three separate roofs. James Jewett came here in 1834 and worked several years for R. H. Gardiner in connection with these mills and in the erection of new ones. Mr. Gardiner's house was burned in 1836 and subsequently he built four other complete mills under one roof, on dam No. 1. These ten mills were operated by tenants: 1 and 2 by N. O. Mitchell; 3, by Day & Preble; 4, Samuel day and Shaw & Cook; 5 and 6, John & Arthur Berry; 7 and 8, Hooker, Libby & Co., and 9 and 10 by William Sargent. These ten mills and surroundings were burned in 1844, at once rebuilt by Mr. Gardiner and occupied by his former tenants. A second fire in 1860 again destroyed these mills, which were immediately rebuilt by the occupants, who rented the sites aud power of Mr. Gardiner. ' In 1863 H. W. Jewett & Hanscom leased mills 9 and 10 of William Sargent and hired Hooker, Libby & Co. to saw lumber for them by the thousand. The next year Mr. Jewett bought the Sargent mill, and a few years later he bought the Hooker, Libby & Co. mill, and put in a modern gang of twenty-one saws. Then he traded this large 1 oo i_ THE CITY OF GARDINER. 609 mill with Mr. Gardiner for Nos. 1 and 2, then called the Mitchell mill, and standing on the site where his present lumber business is located. This he repaired at considerable expense and was doing a fine busi ness when it was destroyed by fire August 7, 1S82. On the spot occu pied by the ruins Mr. Jewett immediately rebuilt at a cost of $30,000, and had his new mill ready and running in the early spring of 1883, and its size, equipments and adaptation to a large business placed it at once at the head of the lumber cutting establishments of Gardiner. The aggregate payments for the 832,793 logs used during the ten years ending with 1891 was $1,045,870.77, exclusive of collecting and hand ling. Its annual output of long lumber has been 11,000,000 'feet, giv ing employment to an average force of more than ninety men. The logs for this immense business come from Moosehead lake and its tributaries. About twenty cargoes of 200,000 feet each of spruce are sent to New York city — one-third is sold at home and the balance finds market on the line of the railroads. This eleven million feet is exclusive of the average annual product of short lumber, including about 6,000,000 shingles, 4,000,000 laths, a half million clapboards and as many pickets and slats. Lincoln Perry was born in Topsham, Me., July 25, 1815, and died in Gardiner, Me., August 28, 1890. His father, Joseph M. Perry, of Topsham, had four sons and four daughters. Joseph and Lincoln set tled in Gardiner, John W. in Brunswick, Me., and Bradford settled first in Gardiner, afterward in Boston. One daughter, Eliza, married Henry Foy, of Gardiner, and resided in that place. Lincoln Perry came to Gardiner in 1831. In 1842 he purchased a mill on dam No. 3 and engaged in the lumber business, afterward owning and operating two mills on that dam for the manufacture of lumber. He continued in that business until 1867, when he retired. In the mill purchased in 1842 had been placed the first planing machine introduced into the county, which he operated for a while, and which up to that time and later was the only planing machine in the county. He married Mary Langdon Reed, of Dresden, Me. They had three children: Mary Adelia, Arthur L. and Sarah W. Perry. The two former are now liv ing and reside in Gardiner. Lincoln Perry served in the city govern ment in 1867, '68, '69 and '70. He was a prominent member of the Congregational church and throughout life one of its most earnest supporters. The industry of broom making in Gardiner was started in a build ing owned by John Moore and Joseph Perry, on Summer street, on wing of dam No. 2 in 1866, by Augustus W. McCausland, William H. Moore, and his brother, Gustavus Moore. The next year Mr. McCaus land bought his partners both out, and in 1868 bought of Arthur Berry the broom handle business that was begun by Thomas Ingalls Noyes two years before, and was thus enabled to make the brooms complete 610 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. in one shop. In 1869 A. W. McCausland and William H. Moore began- cutting thin lumber for picture frame backs, and the next year received George H. Stone into the new firm of Moore, McCausland & Co., which abandoned the making of brooms, and made broom handles and bed slats its main products. This firm built the steam mill now used by the Oakland company, and otherwise enlarged their expenditures, till needing more capital, The Oakland Manufacturing Company was or ganized in 1871, with $25,000 capital stock. In the spring of 1880 the Joseph Perry machine shop, standing only a few feet from the Oak land shops, was burned, and the ground and water rights of the Perry shop were at once leased of Joshua Gray, and the planing mill now in use was added to the plant of the Oakland company.. A force of twenty to twenty-five workmen turn out from six to eight million broom handles yearly, most of which are sent to foreign markets, and over two million pieces of spring bed and slat work. Joshua Gray is the president, Albion E. Wing is the treasurer, and Augustus W. McCausland superintendent of this company. In 1868 John Kidder Foy and A. K. P. Buffum built a planing mill en Summer street and made doors, sash and blinds, under the firm name of Foy & Buffum. In 1870 Sanford N. Maxcy succeeded Mr. Foy, and the same line of business was carried on for the next fourteen years by the firm of A. K. P. Buffum & Co. A fire destroyed all of their works except the east building in 1884, when Mr. Maxcy pur chased his partner's half, and operated two years as S. N. Maxcy & Co. In 1886 the present stock company was organized as The S. N. Maxcy Manufacturing Company. These mills have always been run by steam, using now a thirty-five horse power engine, and the steady services of twenty to twenty-five men. The manufacture of bed slats for the general market is an industry that originated here with William H. Moore. The initial experiment was made in 1868 in a building known as Moore's shop, on Summer street, and it prospered from the start. In 1880 Mr. Moore moved to dam No. 3, and bought his present location of Arthur Berry, on which was the old " Shadagee " saw mill, that was originally built back of the present post office on Water street, where it stood many years, and was moved to dam No. 3 by Mr. Gardiner, about 1820. John Moore, father of William H., was a millwright, and did the work. There was also a building now used for a mattress factory, that Mr. Berry built many years ago for a planing mill. In 1884 an automatic splitting saw, and in 1888 a machine for cutting excelsior, were invented and patented by Mr. Moore, each of which is of great utility and value. In July, 1891, The W. H. Moore Mattress Manufacturing Company was organized to make a new mattress in which the tips of pine and fir boughs are used for their hygienic effects. Both branches of Mr.. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 611 Moore's business are active, and together they furnish occupation for twenty-four people. Captain James Walker engaged in making boxes at dam No. 3 in 1869, where he remained eleven years and then moved to the lower dam and was burned out in 1882. He was also interested with S. N. Maxcy in the lumber business. The same year of the fire Captain Walker resumed box making and located at his present quarters in one of the Oakland Manufacturing Company's buildings on Summer street, where he employs from five to fifteen hands. Some four or five years before the civil war Whitmore & Dorr built a saw mill on the " Shadagee " dam. Mr. Dorr soon sold his interest to William Sargent, who in 1863 sold to Robert T. Hayes. Whitmore & Hayes added a building with a rotary saw, and had just finished other improvements, when Mr. Whitmore died, in 1865, and his inter ests were sold to Mr. Hayes. Joseph C. Atkins, of Farmingdale, sub sequently purchased a half interest in this mill, and the firm of R. T. Hayes & Co. employ twenty men, and cut one million feet of long and two million feet of short lumber yearly. On his return from the war in 1866 Melvin C. Wadsworth bought an interest in the house furniture manufacturing firm of Tibbetts & Morgan. Three years later he bought out his partners and conducted the business alone till 1873, when the present firm of Wadsworth Brothers was formed by the admission of Clarence E. Wadsworth. The fire of 1882 destroyed their factory, but they rebuilt the next year on the old site, which they still occupy, employing twelve men in their shops. This is the only concern of the kind in Gardiner. Peleg S. Robinson opened in 1861 a general jobbing sash, door and blind shop, with John F. Merrill, whose interest he purchased in 1863, and has followed the business ever since, employing six men. Immediately after the disastrous fire of 1882 — which burned the sash, door and blind manufactories of Moore & Brown, and of Seabury & Towle — Granville W. Moore, Daniel B. Brown and Rufus B. Seabury formed the present firm of Moore, Brown & Co., contractors and build ers, and proceeded at once to construct their buildings now in use on dam No. 1. The main building stands where Moore & Brown's shop stood, and the building which contains the office is on the spot where Seabury & Towle's factory was. This, the oldest concern of the kind in the city, dating from Mr. Seabury's beginning in 1852, furnished labor for fifteen to twenty-five men. The history of the Holmes & Robbins' pioneer machine and iron working manufactory begins in 1830, when Philip C. Holmes and Charles A. Robbins began to build grain threshers on the lower dam, near the present Daily News building, for R. B. Dunn. In a few years they moved to dam No. 2, just above the old Gardiner woolen mill, where they built a wooden foundry on the site of their present old 612 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. foundry, and a store-house for patterns, and added mill work and steam engines to their line of manufactures. This entire establish ment was burned in 1846. Within a single month a brick foundry was in complete running order on the site of the old one, and the next year they built the present brick store-house. In 1848 the firm built the machine shop now in use, and made castings for ship work. Their forge for making ship shapes stood on dam No. 3, where Foster's axe factory was and where now the Gardiner Tool Company is located. This line of work was continued to 1858, when shipbuilding went down. The old firm was dissolved in 1860 and the new firm of P. C. Holmes & Co. was formed, by Philip C. and George M. Holmes and Thomas Wrenn. The latter died in 1866, and in 1873 Philip H. Holmes was admitted. Philip C. Holmes died in 1882 and the next year George H., son of George M. Holmes, became a member of the firm. In 1889 The P. C. Holmes Company was incorporated, with a capital of $300,000. The Holmes turbine water wheel, invented by Philip H. Holmes, is a specialty of manufacture; also the fibre graph ite, another remarkable invention of Mr. Holmes, which obviates the use of all lubricants in the running of machinery. George M. Holmes is the inventor of machinery for placing accurately spaced and planed gears. The firm of C. A. Robbins & Sons, iron founders and machinists, was formed in 1869, by Charles A. and his sons, E. Everett and Albert A. Robbins. They bought at that time the premises on the corner of Bridge and High streets, and put up buildings which they used till they were burned in 1882. The old shops were replaced by new ones the same year, and the name of the firm was not changed when Charles A. Robbins died April 9, 1884, nor when E. E. Robbins died in 1892. The number of employees is fifteen, manufacturing saw and grist mill machinery, iron and brass castings, shafting and pulleys; but the principal specialty of the factory is machinery for stowing and shipping ice. The making of steel springs and axles in Gardiner is the result of one of the earliest attempts of its kind in the state of Maine. In 1S30 James Williams made steel springs in Readfield, where he continued their manufacture for thirty-five years. Among his workmen was Hebron M. Wentworth, who left the shop and served his country through the civil war. On his return in 1865, he chose this city for his future home and brought Mr. Williams with him, and continued the steel spring and axle manufacture on dam No. 3, where it still re mains. The next year the shop was burned, and immediately rebuilt, and David Wentworth became a partner, with firm name of Went worth Brothers. Soon after George and Frank Plaisted were admitted to the new firm of H. Wentworth & Co., which ran several years, when the Plaisteds sold to John T. Richards and others. In 1877 a stock THE CITY OF GARDINER. 613 company was formed, and incorporated as The Wentworth Spring & Axle Company, which has had fourteen years of continued growth and prosperity. The annual output is. 350 tons of steel springs and 15,000 sets of axles, in the production of which forty-five men are employed. The manufacture of axes in Gardiner began in 1881, when Henry M. Foster came here from Skowhegan and bought of James Walker a box factory on dam No. 3, which he converted into an axe and ice tool factory. After running one year The Foster Edge Tool Com pany was formed, which after two years was changed to the present Gardiner Tool Company, of which Fuller Dingley is president and Henry M. Foster agent. Six men are employed and 1,300 dozen axes are made annually. After returning from the war Benjamin S. Smith resumed his trade of house builder and contractor, which he learned of Tibbetts, Morgan & Co. In 1883 he rented of J. W. Lash the building he now owns and occupies on dam No. 1, and in 1887 he bought it. His busi ness includes a great variety of wood work for building and finishing purposes, besides sash, doors and blinds, at which six men find steady work. Harvey Scribner came to Gardiner from Casco, Me., in 1854, and in 1856 rented of J. E. Ladd & Co. a new building on dam No. 1, and be gan making shafting, pulleys and lumber machinery. In 1872 he bought the building and did millwright and machine work till Janu ary, 1890, when he was burned out. One week from that time Mr. Scribner bought his present factory of Captain Joseph Perry, in which he employs sixteen men. Captain Joseph Perry came to Gardiner in 1827, and until 1836 worked at house carpentry, and for Holmes & Robbins. He then hired a building on dam No. 2, near the People's Grist Mill, and opened a machine shop. In 1846 he bought the shop, which was burned in 1880. Two years later he was again burned out in a shop he had rented, but immediately rebuilt on a larger scale than ever — the best machine shop on the river — and in February, 1890, after fifty- four years of prosperous business, he sold his plant and retired. The brick grist mill, corner of Water and Bridge streets, on clam No. 1, was built by R. H. Gardiner in 1844, and fitted with machinery and boltfe for merchant flouring, as well as for a custom grist mill. Walter Wrenn, an experienced English miller, had charge of the flouring department, and Smith Maxcy left the old stone mill to take the custom department. William Vaughan and Francis Richards were the financial men of the concern. They were succeeded by John S. Wilson, John Nutting and Walter Wrenn, who bought grain and made flour till cheap transportation brought western flour in ruinous competition with New England manufacture, and the busi- 614 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. ness was abandoned in 1868. Bartlett & Dennis were the next occu pants of the mill, and in 1871 were succeeded by Barstow & Nicker son, who have done custom grinding there for over twenty years. The People's Grist Mill was built in 1860, by John C. Bartlett and others, who sold it in 1862 to Bartlett & Dennis. Mr. Bartlett died in 1882, and was succeeded in the firm by his son, William M. Bartlett. This mill is on dam No. 2, Summer street, and up to about 1880 it did regular merchant flouring, bringing large quantities of western wheat by railroad and grinding it for the New England trade. Since then it has been exclusively a grist mill, does roller and stone grinding, and in its various departments employs ten men. During the winter of 1886-7, Watkins & Peacock fitted premises on Water street for grinding grain by steam power, and six months later transferred the business to the present proprieter, William M. Wood, who bought the machinery and rented the building. This is the only steam grist mill in Gardiner. The first paper mill on the Cobbosseecontee was built about 1806 by R. H. Gardiner, John Savels, Eben Moore and John Stone, under the firm name of John Savels & Co. It was burned in 1813, and was rebuilt by the same parties, with the exception of Mr. Stone, who re tired from the firm. After a few years George Cox, who came to the mill as a journeyman " tramp," and had grown by solid merit to be managing workman, was taken into the firm under the style of Savels, Cox & Co. John Savels died in 1832, and Cox sold to Moses Springer soon after and went to Vassalboro, where he built a new paper manu factory. Mr. Savels' son, William, who was also a preacher, with Eben Moore and Moses Springer, continued the business for a time, when Elbridge G. Hooker, Charles P. Walton and John C. Godding bought an interest. In the meantime R. H. Gardiner, in 1834, built a brick paper mill on the same dam and rented it to Francis Richards, who put it in operation at once. Less than two years after this, Henry B. Hoskins, a clerk in Mr. Gardiner's office, bought the interests of the several parties in the old paper mill, and Richards & Hoskins con solidated the business of the two mills in a partnership that lasted over twenty years. Francis Richards died in 1857 and was succeeded by his son, F. G. Richards. In 1865 Mr. Hoskins withdrew from the business, and the next year F. G. and John T. Richards, brothers, and W. F. Richards, a clerk, formed the firm of Richards & Co. A fire in 1882 damaged their works over $50,000, which were rebuilt and enlarged. Soon after the death of the senior member of the firm in 1884, the present Rich ards Paper Company was incorporated. They produce about eio-ht tons of paper per day and employ some sixty people. In 1888 the company bought a pulp mill at Skowhegan, and the next year began the construction of their extensive pulp mills at South Gardiner, THE CITY OF GARDINER 615 which were completed and in operation in January, 1891. Ten tons -of sulphite pulp are made each day, giving work to eighty hands. The Copsecook Paper Mills occupy dam No. 6, and are owned by S. D. Warren & Co., of Boston. This property was purchased and the first mills were built in 1852 by The Great Falls Company, whose stockholders were S. Bowman, Charles Swift, I. N. Tucker, Joseph Perry, Philip Winslow, Lincoln Perry, Charles Bridge, R. K. Little field, F. P. Patten, Samuel Hooker, William Libby, Stephen Brown and H. C. Winslow. Noah Woods and others were afterward inter- •ested in the company, whose capital stock was $32,000. The stock holders operated the mill ten years and •then rented, and two years COPSECOOK MILLS, GARDINER, ME. later sold, to the present owners, who ran the business till 1878, when they enlarged and rebuilt the entire works iu the best manner. After twelve vears more of steady use the mills were again rebuilt in 1890, as shown in this view, and put in the most perfect condition for the manufacture of book paper. Henry E. Merriam has been the super intendent for nearly thirty years. Stanwood & Tower started the first paper mill on dam No. 5, in the fall of 1865. It was a one machine mill, making bogus manilla paper for wrapping. About 1871 the Dillinghams bought in with Stanwood •& Tower, put in another machine, and as Dillingham & Co. made 616 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. bogus and No. 1 manilla paper. In the spring of 1876 Ellis A. Hol lingsworth and Leonard Whitney bought out Dillingham & Co. and continued making manilla paper. In November,- 1877, Hollingsworth & Whitney bought of the estate of R. H. Gardiner dams No. 4 and 5, with land and privileges, and in 1880 began the building of a pulp mill on dam No. 4, for the manufacture of soda pulp, which was com pleted the next spring and called the Aroostook mills. This new mill began making pulp at once, but was destroyed by fire after running but a few weeks. It was rebuilt and again in operation the same fall and continued till April, 1883, when it was shut down and changed from a pulp mill to a paper mill. In June, 1886, the mill was again stopped for enlargement and repairs, which were completed and t>e making of manilla paper was resumed in August. In 1886 the Cob- bossee mills on dam No. 5 shut down, were entirely rebuilt in less than six months and again in active operation making manilla paper. The original founders of these mills both being dead, a new com pany was incorporated in 1882, called The Hollingsworth & Whitney Company. At present the Cobbossee and Aroostook mills at Gardiner make about fourteen tons of manilla paper per day, which gives work to one hundred people, and uses water to the amount of 4,000 horse power. The local manager is F. E. Boston, of Gardiner, who grew up in the business, and has been superintendent since 1876. In the year 1810 Robert Hallowell Gardiner leased to the " Gardi ner Cotton & Woolen Factory Company " for a period of ninety-nine years sufficient water to run their mills located on what is now dam No. 2. The directors who signed the agreement were: Simon Brad street, Rufus Gay, Ebenezer Byrum, Daniel Woodward, Jeremiah Wakefield and R. H. Gardiner. This company did business till 1839, and then sold to Philip Winslow, Robert Richardson, Joseph Perry and I. N. Tucker, who continued under the firm name of Isaac N. Tucker & Co. for forty-seven years. In 1866 they bought more land and erected the brick building that is still the Gardiner woolen mill. Mr. Tucker had been dead several years before the company was dissolved, and toward the last the works were sometimes idle, with the exception of wool carding carried on by Mr. Winslow. In 1889 William C. Jack and M. F. Payne bought the plant, added new machinery and are now doing business in the firm name of W. C. Jack & Co. Their specialties are grading woolen rags, and manu facturing shoddy, of which the daily product is six hundred pounds. They operate the Flanders Woolen Company, at Dexter, where about half the shoddy made here is woven into cloth. Twenty-five people find employment in the Gardiner mill. J. Davis Gardiner, James Reynolds, William H. Lord and A. E. Wing were wagon and carriage makers who preceded those now fol lowing that business in Gardiner, of whom P. Henry Gilson, the oldest, THE CITY OF GARDINER. 617 began in 1850. He has facilities for doing all the work on a carriage and employs eight men. Joseph B. Libby began the same business in the old Reynolds shop on Church street in 1874, where he has steam power and keeps seven workmen. In 1860 Albert T. Smith com menced the manufacture of carriages and sleighs in the building for merly used as a livery stable by A. T. Perkins. Isaac Edwards, Miller & Atkins, Frank L. McGowan, Larrabee & Hanscom and Augustus Bailey were also carriage makers. Mr. Smith has iron, paint and fin ishing shops, and employs six men. A Mr. Perkins was one of the first coopers in Gardiner, and had a shop near the present freight depot of the Maine Central railroad. Deacon Abel Whitney came to Gardiner in 1848 and opened a cooper shop, which business he has followed from that time to this. The firm of Mitchell, Wilson & Co. did a heavy West India trade, sending also to California large invoices of green and dried apples from Gardiner, and what sounds stranger still, eggs, requiring large quantities of well made barrels, which were all furnished by Deacon Whitney. The Gardiner Shoe Factory Association was the result of a popular movement to enlarge the manufactures of the city. A fund of over $8 000 was raised by subscription and a stock company was organized July 27, 1883, with John T. Richards, president; J. S. Maxcy, secretary and treasurer; J. T. Richards, David Dennis and S. Bowman, directors. A large building was erected on dam No. 1, corner of Summer street, and furnished free of rent or taxes to Kimball Brothers, of Lynn, who did a prosperous manufacturing business for several years, giving employment to two hundred people, whose weekly pay roll amounted to $2,500. In a little old mill run by water power clay was ground before 1820 and brick were burned where Joshua Gray's saw mill now stands. David Flagg and a Mr. Hamlin were brick makers of that period. Later Jesse Lambard had a brick yard back of the present Gardiner Bank. A Mr. Taylor on Spring street and Ebenezer Morrell (who was succeeded by Amasa Smith and H. A. Morrell) on Summer street also had brick yards more than fifty years ago. Arch Morrell, until his death in 1885, was the principal brick maker in this vicinity, and during his period he doubtless burned nine-tenths of the brick used in the city, and shipped immense quantities to Boston. A clay bank more than seventy feet high extended from the M. E. church to the foot of Spring street, and another marked bluff was between Middle and Spring streets. These were the sources of supply for the various kilns until the bluffs were literally carried away. Some time before Mr. Morrell's death, his son, William, managed his extensive business and succeeded him. For the last twenty years their yards have aver aged 700,000 brick annually. 40 618 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. A big tannery stood between dams No. 1 and No. 2, run by Cook & Nutting. Deacon Fields had a tannery at the head of Summer street, and Mr. Plaisted had one on Harrison avenue. South Gardiner.— This was a village in the town before the in corporation of the city, and has since retained its local importance. The post office here was established February 8, 1870, with John T. Smith as postmaster. John McGrath was appointed in April, 1874, but did not serve, and Sherburn Lawrence received the appointment the next month and held it till 1887. Henry R. Sawyer then held the office for two years, and March 27, 1889, Sherburn Lawrence, the pres ent incumbent, was again appointed. The far reaching influence of first settlers is a subject of unceasing interest. The kind of men and women they are is a matter that con cerns all who come after them. Their traits, their tastes, their habits, not only descend as an entail of blood to their posterity, but they become a sort of perpetual endowment for good or for ill to the entire community. When David Lawrence, then twenty-six years old, with his bride, Sarah Eastman, five years younger, came in 1768 from Littleton, Mass., to make their life-long home at what is now South Gardiner, they be came the potential cause of a chain of events whose operation was never more apparent than to-day. The lives of the family they founded have been largely the history of that locality for over a hundred years. He bought there 160 acres of land, heavily timbered with the mag nificent oak and stately pine of the old Kennebec valley. He built a house and began clearing the land adjoining the river, running the timber down to the ship-yards at Bath, and shipping the cord wood to Boston. We here see the type of his successors; farmer, dealer, manu facturer — a combination of practical, successful enterprise. His first wife died in 1790. Their children had been: David, born 1769; Eliza beth, 1770; Benjamin, 1772; Simeon, 1775, killed by accident when four years old; Edward, 1778; Lucy, 1780, and another Simeon, 1783. The last named became a farmer and Edward built a saw mill on the Nahumkeag stream in Pittston. On March 6, 1791, David married his second wife, Sarah Clark, who died February 5, 1795, at the birth of her twin boys, James and William, leaving also two older children, Charles and Sarah. David's third wife was Hannah Clark, and their children were: Hannah, born 1796; Isaac, 1797; and Mary, 1801. When David died there was a feeling in the community that every one had sustained a personal loss, only soothed by the reflection that he had lived a long and useful life and had passed to the satisfactions of the life beyond. Charles Lawrence, whose portrait appears here, was the eldest child of his father's second marriage. Born February 18, 1793, in heriting a vigorous constitution both of body and mind, he grew to ^-~^u? /^ G^j^i^f <*d & Ol^s PRINT, e. BIERSTADT, THE CITY OF GARDINER. 619 useful manhood, and regarding his whole career, it is difficult to say whether he spent the most time on the farm or on the river. Here he made shingles and staves the year round by the old fashioned process •of " riving " the blocks of pine and spruce which had been felled in the upper Kennebec valley. He entered heartily into his father's business, became master of all its details, but was particularly active and efficient in the river department. He was one of the earliest dealers in logs, becoming an expert in estimating their contents and value. He also went up the river and lumbered on Jerusalem town ship, also buying large quantities of logs, which he sold to the tide mills below Bath. He built in 1832, for the log driving company at LAWRENCE HOMESTEAD; BURNED MARCH 12, 1883. SKETCHED FROM DESCRIPTION. South Gardiner, one of the first and largest booms of its kind on the river. He married Eleanor Morrell, of Winthrop, in February, 1823, and had eleven children: Dolla M., born 1824; Drusilla, 1825; Samuel M., 1827; Hiram, 1829; Eleanor, 1831; Sherburn, 1832; Greenlief, 1835; Laura A., 1839; Georgianna, 1844; Charles, 1846; and Abner, 1849. He took his father David's place in the old homestead, shown in the ac companying cut, paid off the heirs, and aided by his excellent wife created for his large family a home that will always remain their highest conception of parental forethought and affection. Here Charles Lawrence lived to the good old age of ninety, when 620 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. on the fourth of March, 1883, he passed easily and gently to the better world. He had been a model of physical health and symmetry, over six feet tall, of a strong mind and a great heart. In politics he was first a whig and then a republican. In religious faith he was in full accord with the Universalist society, to which he belonged. He be lieved the best way to serve his God was to help his fellow-men. His active business life had closed in 1870, but his spirit of enter prise had been inherited and imbibed by his sons, who had for years been his associates and assistants. They were as much at home on the river as their father had ever been, and with youthful zeal reached out to new fields with larger plans, involving more comprehensive re sults. Their operations became so large that accumulations of lengths and sizes of unsalable logs necessitated their manufacture into lum ber, so in 1870 the five brothers— Sherburn, Samuel M., Hiram, Green lief and Charles — erected at South Gardiner the first building of their present extensive lumber cutting mills. A steam engine of 150 horse power then put in place still proves sufficient, although the capacity of the mills has been enlarged in all other directions. Four years ago, in order to work off the accumulations of slabs and edgings, a kindling wood department was added that cuts each day a car-load of 10,000 bundles. The year that Lawrence Brothers built their mill they, with others, made also a little experiment in the ice business that yielded a good profit. Houses were built in Pittston sufficient to store 6,000 tons, which was sold the next spring for seven dollars per ton. In 1876 they built two more ice houses that were used two years and torn down. Ten million feet of lumber is cut yearly at their mills. The chief supply of logs comes from Moosehead lake and Dead river, where they employ two hundred men and forty teams four months in the year: cutting from their own lands eight to nine million feet of logs annually. The balance which they manufacture are bought of other lumbermen. The Maine Central Railroad Company purchases two and a half million feet of their product yearly. Besides the help cutting logs, 110 men find steady employment at the mills at South Gardiner. In 1888 this quintuple partnership of brothers was broken by the death of Samuel M., who was respected and beloved by all who knew him. With riper experience, as being the oldest member of this family partnership, Sherburn Lawrence took the guiding oar at the start and by their common request he has retained it, and is widely known as the representative member of the firm in all its extended transactions. A retired editor, himself a native of Gardiner, basing his conclusions upon a life-long acquaintance, says of Mr. Lawrence: " Endowed with great common sense and a man of mature judgment o^- /S-uc-^- THE CITY OF GARDINER. 621 and mental grasp, yet he impresses men more by the qualities of his heart. Public spirited and thoroughly modest, he always considers the interests and feelings of others, especially the poor, ancl is held in ideal esteem by those in his employ. ¦ I do not believe Sherburn Law rence has an enemy." In 1854 he married Julia, daughter of Jordan Stanford, of South Gardiner. Their only child, Forest M. Lawrence, born in 1856, died in 1888. He was a young man of rare activities and qualities of mind and heart, and his untimely decease was sincerely mourned by an en tire community. The ethical bent of his mind is fairly revealed by the following lines, which he kept posted over his business desk as his constant reminder: " The sunshine of life is made up of very little beams that are bright all the time. To give "up something, when giving up will pre vent unhappiness; to yield, when persisting will chafe and fret others; to go a little around rather than come against another; to take an ill look or cross word quietly, rather than resent or return it — these are the ways in which clouds and storms are kept off and a pleasant and steady sunshine secured. Joseph S. and Frederick T. Bradstreet went to South Gardiner in 1876, bought land and built the present steam saw mills driven by en gines of 450 horse power, which they operated under the firm name of Bradstreet Brothers. In 1881 The Bradstreet Lumber Company was formed, with $100,000 capital. It cuts 15,000,000 feet of spruce dimen sions for the New York market each year, employing 110 mill hands. The logs for this immense business are furnished by Joseph S. and Frederick T. Bradstreet, from their extensive tracts of timber lands on the Roach, Moose and Dead rivers. The first grocery store at South Gardiner was owned by a Mr. Burke, who sold the business and premises to Jordan Stanford in 1839. The latter was a boot and shoe manufacturer and dealer in Gardiner city, and at once built a branch factory in South Gardiner, where he employed from fifteen to twenty hands several years. Mr. Stanford continued the store he had bought of Mr. Burke till 1849, when he was succeeded by C. G. Baxter, Benjamin Stanford, and lastly by his daughter, Emily Stanford, who built in 1878 the store she now owns and occupies south of the old Burke store. The next store at South Gardiner was opened by Lincoln & Aver- ill, who kept it eight years and were burned out. A year or two later Beadle & Potter built on the same ground the store they are now run ning. F. M. Lawrence built a small store and used it till 1881, when the large store now operated by his widow was built, and the small store converted into the present lumber office of Lawrence Brothers. H. R. Sawyer built a store in 1880, occupied since by A. B. Haley, J. C. Merriman, by H. R. Sawyer for a post office under Cleveland, and at present by W. H. Merrell. Mr. Sawyer built the store he now owns 622 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. and occupies in 1884, and Judson Hall built his small store near the G. A. R. Hall, in 1890. Town Officers.— As the city is the political successor of the old town of Gardiner, we will here note the chief officials of the town during the forty-seven years of its existence as such. In 1803 Dudley B. Hobart was moderator of the first town meeting. During the exist ence of Gardiner' as a town the following named persons served it as selectmen, the date showing the first year of service. The number of years — not always consecutive — are also indicated: Barzillai Gannett, 1803, 6 consecutive years; Dudley B. Hobart, 1803; William Barker, 1803; William Swan, 1804: Reuben Moor, 1804; Joshua Lord, 1805; Samuel Elwell, 1805, 1806; Edward Wilson, 1806, 3 years; Stephen Jewett, 1807, 6 years; Simon Bradstreet, 1809, 3 consecutive years; Jesse Tucker, 1809, 4 years; William G. Warren, 1812, 3 years; Ichabod Plaisted, 1812, 1813; Aaron Haskell, 1812, 21 years; Thomas Gilpatrick, 1814, 9 times; James Lord, 1814, 5 consecutive years; James Marston, 1815, 4 years; Rufus Gay, 1817, 1818; Sanford Kingsbury, 1819; Paul Dyer, 1819; Jacob Davis, 1820, 9 consecutive years; Peter Adams, 1825, 6 consecu tive years; Edward Peacock, 1829; William Partridge, 1830, 7 consecu tive years; Arthur Plumer, 1831; Benjamin Shaw, 1832; Daniel Merrill, 1833; Benjamin H. Field, 1833; Ansyl Clark, 1S35.9 years; E. F. Deane, 1837, 2 years; Cyrus Kindrick, 1837; A. S. Chadwick, 1837, 5 years; Thomas N. Atkins, 1839; Jordan Libby, 1840, 1841; Ebenezer White, 1842; Elkanah McLellan, 1842; Mason Damon, 1843, 5 years; Edward Swan, 1843; Arthur. Plumer, 1844; Charles Danforth, 1845, 4 years; James G. Donnell, 1845; Phineas Pratt, 1846, 1847; Robert Thompson, 1848; Michael Hildreth, 1848; Isaac N. Tucker, 1849. The succession of town treasurers was as follows: Rufus Gay, 1803; Edward Swan, 1819; Rufus Gay, 1834; Thomas Gay, 1837; E. F. Deane, 1838; Michael Hildreth, 1840; E. F. Deane, 1841; Michael Hildreth, 1842; Jason Winnett, 1848; Cyrus Kindrick, 1848, 1849. The first town clerk was Seth Gay, formerly the clerk of Pittston. He served until 1839, when Ansyl Clark was elected. Thomas Gay was clerk in 1841, and John Webb then served as long as Gardiner was a town. City's Civil History. — In 1849 the legislature of Maine passed the act of incorporation by which the town of Gardiner as a body politic might become the city of Gardiner. The acceptance of the charter by a vote of the people was a condition precedent. The town voted on the 26th of November, to accept the charter, and the first city election was held in March, 1850. As divided by the act of incor poration,. the city consisted of seven wards, ward 3 being then the pres ent town of West Gardiner. Robert Hallowell Gardiner, in whose honor the city was named, became its first mayor. The successive incumbents of the office, each THE CITY OF GARDINER. 623 serving until the next, have been: Parker Sheldon, first elected in 1851, resigned April 12, 1852, and Robert Thompson elected April 20, 1852 Edward Swan, 1853; Noah Woods, 1854; Henry B. Hoskins, 1859 Noah Woods, 1861; James Nash, 1863; Nathan O. Mitchell, 1865 George W. Wilcox, 1867, died December 17, 1867, and Joshua Gray elected December 30, 1867; D. C. Palmer, 1871; H. M. Wentworth, 1874; James B. Dingley, 1876; D. C. Palmer, 1879; Joseph E. Ladd, 1881; William Perkins, 1882; S. Everett Johnson, 1884; Joseph E. Ladd, 1886; John W. Berry, 1887; Albert M. Spear, since March, 1889. The city treasurers in succession have been: Freeman Trott, first elected in 1850; Cyrus Kindrick, 1852; Elbridge Berry, 1854; Charles P. Branch, 1857; I. Wheeler Woodward, 1859; James M. Colson, 1863; John Berry, 1864; James M. Larrabee, 1865; Henry B. Hoskins, 1869; and the now venerable Sifamai Bowman, serving continuously since the city election of 1872. The city clerkship is an important office, and the good condition of the records which constitute the political history of the city indicates that the place has been filled generally by men of ability. John Webb opened the records as clerk, and was succeeded the next year by Charles P. Branch, who served eight years consecutively. Charles B. Clapp served four years, beginning in 1859. Llewellyn Kidder was clerk for 1863, succeeded by Charles P. Branch for five years. John Webb was elected in 1869, George H. Ray in 1872, Anthony G. Davis in 1873, and in 1878 Charles O. Wadsworth, the present efficient in cumbent, began his continuous service. Mr. Wadsworth has collected and bound the printed reports of the city officers, including the act of incorporation and city charter, which volumes comprise the best printed data on the civil history of Gardiner. The government of the city is vested in the mayor, a board of six aldermen, and a common council of eighteen, three of whom are elected from each of the six wards, which boards constitute the city council. With the exceptions of constables, wardens and ward clerks, the city council elects or appoints the executive officials of the city. The last report of Mayor A. M. Spear shows the general condition of the city to' be prosperous and progressive. By an outlay of two thousand dollars the city hall now furnishes rooms for the liquor agency, ample conveniences for the police court, the city marshal and his deputies, and seven secure cells for prisoners. The report of the city marshal, Edgar E. Norton, for the fiscal year ending March 1, 1892, shows that of the 439 warrants of arrest served, 330 were for drunken ness. The police work is done by two officers on duty by day and two by night. During the year 1889 the number of warrants issued was 360. The report of the chief engineer makes the encouraging statement that the fire department was called out only ten times during the year, 624 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. and that the total loss in these fires was small. The city owns two fourth class steamers, two hose wagons, five two wheeled reels, one hook and ladder truck, three hose pungs, 7,150 feet of 2^ inch rubber lined hose, and 500 feet of two inch hose. The hook and ladder com pany has thirty men, each steamer has fifteen men, and hose companies 1 and 2 have each fifteen men. Besides these the volunteer company of old firemen furnishes ten men. Steamer No. 2, with fifteen firemen, is stationed at South Gardiner. Charles M. Drake is chief engineer, at a salary of $100 a year, and there are two assistant engineers, who re ceive $30 each. The cost of the fire department for the year 1891-2 was $3,173.02. The Liquor Agency, in charge of Andrew J. Hooker, city liquor agent, handled $6,088.35 worth of goods, on which the city received a profit of $1,229.05. The alms-house at New Mills, built of brick, with fourteen acres of land attached, was purchased of William Bradstreet for $2,200, in 1849, by the town of Gardiner. Additions and repairs costing $3,000 more were soon made, since which but little has been expended. George W. Shepard is the superintendent in charge, and with rooms for forty boarders he has less than a dozen. The annual poor fund budget is but a trifle over $3,00 . Although the upper Kennebec is navigable to smaller craft, Gar diner must be regarded as the practical head of navigation, and thus it enjoys a distinctive and permanent advantage. Favorably situated for good drainage, the city is a healthy and desirable place of resi dence. On the summit of Church hill, neatly enclosed and orna mented with trees, is a beautiful park of five acres commanding a sweeping view of the valley, and constituting one of the many attrac tions of the city. Its site, 125 feet above the Kennebec, was given conditionally in 1824 to the town of Gardiner. It was subsequently conveyed absolutely to the city of Gardiner by Francis Richards, as trustee of R. H. Gardiner's estate. At Gardiner was established January 1, 1795, one of the first four post offices in the county. It was named Pittston and Barzillai Gan nett was the postmaster until the office was moved across the river in May, 1804. September 30, 1804, Mr. Gannett was again commissioned as the Gardiner postmaster, the office taking at that date the name of the new town. He kept the office in his store and in the Jewett house at the foot of Vine street. When Mr. Gannett went to congress in 1809, Seth Gay took the office, May 2d. The names of the postmasters, with the years of their appointment, since that time have been: Wil liam Palmer, 1835; Thomas Gay, 1841; Joseph Merrill, 1845; Lawson H. Green, 1849; Frederick P. Theobald, 1853; Charles A. White, 1857; John Berry, 1861; Samuel D. Clay, 1866; John Berry, 1867; Daniel C. J ?y0^a^^l^ £ /y^-^^r-7^ ^ ^ / ^ THE CITY OF GARDINER. 625 Palmer, 1882; Charles A. White, 1886; Eleazer W. Atwood, 1890; and Fred. E. Milliken, April 20, 1892. Banks. — The Cobbossee settlement was more that fifty years old before it had a local bank. The business men of Gardiner were obliged to go to Hallowell for banking facilities until 1814. On Janu ary 31st of that year the Massachusetts legislature chartered the Gardi ner Bank, and at a meeting of its stockholders, held at Mrs. Longfel low's tavern March 21st following, a board of directors was chosen, consisting of Robert H. Gardiner, Major Peter Grant, Joshua Lord, Simon Bradstreet and Nathan Bridge. The institution was a bank of issue, organized under the state laws, with a capital of $50,000. For over half a century its bills were kept at par in all the money centers of the nation. March 23, 1865, it was changed to the Gardiner National Bank, with the same amount of capital and without change of officers. Its presidents have been: Peter Grant, Samuel C. Grant, William B. Grant, William S. Grant, Joseph Bradstreet, W. F. Rich ards and Isaac J. Carr. Its cashiers have been: Sanford Kingsbury, Major Edward Swan, Joseph Adams, James F. Patterson, George F. Adams, Fred. W. Hunton, Everett L. Smith, and Alvan C. Harlow since April, 1891. The Oakland Bank was organized January 30, 1855, as a state bank, and began doing business with a capital of $100,000. The directors were: Noah Woods, of Bangor, Me., and Joshua Gray, Myrick Hop kins, John S. Wilson and Charles Swift, of Gardiner. Noah Woods was chosen president and Sifamai Bowman cashier. The bank was located on the second floor of the Gardiner Block. At the end of ten years it closed up its business as a state bank, and its managers organ ized the Oakland National Bank, with a capital of $50,000. Joshua Gray was chosen its president and Sifamai Bowman was again chosen cashier. Business was continued in the Gardiner Block until 1881, when the present bank building was erected at a cost of $8,000. The bank pays five per cent., semi-annually, and its stock sells at 165. The bank has had but one cashier. For twenty-four years Mr. Bowman did the work without an assistant. The uninterrupted prosperity of the above institution emphasizes somewhat the long and honorable career of its cashier, who has been from the first its practical and actual manager, and to-day the city has no other citizen so eminently and distinctively a bank man as Sifamai Bowman, whose portrait here appears."' Mr. Bowman was born at Litchfield, Me., February 5, 1812. When he was ten years old the family moved to Hallowell. At the age of sixteen he left home and went to Topsham, where he learned the trade of blacksmith. In 1834 he engaged in the same business on his * The following sketch is by his friend and neighbor, Judge Henry S. Web ster.— [Ed. 626 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. own account at Topsham, and afterward, in 1836, at Gardiner, where- he has since resided. When the Oakland Bank was ready to commence business in July,. 1855, Mr. Bowman had become well and favorably known in the com munity as an upright, industrious, clear-minded, shrewd and careful business man. The directors judged rightly that they could not bet ter promote the interests of the new institution than by selecting him as its cashier. Nor is it strange that the management of its affairs was left almost entirely to his judgment. Whether it was the dis counting of a note, the obtaining of a settlement with some refractory and impecunious debtor, or the far more important transaction of winding up the affairs of the state bank and organizing a national bank in its stead, reliance was placed upon his tact and ability to see that everything was done properly and in order. And never was an institution served more faithfully. Its remarkable and uninterrupted success is the best commentary that can be made upon the devotion and capacity of its trusted official. Always at his post, always affable and discreet, yet with a rare knowledge of human nature which ren dered him incapable of being imposed on, he placed the bank on a solid foundation and secured its long and prosperous career. For the first twenty-four years Mr. Bowman performed his duties as cashier without any assistance, and during that period, by reason of sickness and all other causes combined, he was not absent more than a dozen days from his desk. Yet, with all this strictness of at tention to his chosen task, he has always found time for other labors. Since 1872 he has served as city treasurer. He has always been en gaged more or less in business of his own, and by this means has acquired an ample competence. At the same time he has been the adviser and confidant, in matters of business, of a great many per sons, who have felt that they could rely implicitly upon the soundness and fidelity of his advice. Add to this that he has always taken a deep interest in public affairs, and has never neglected an opportunity to promote, by word and example, any enterprise calculated to in crease the growth and prosperity of his city. The extent of his private benefactions will never be known except to the grateful recipients. He was married in 1835, to Julia T. Hinkley, of Topsham. A happv union of fifty-six years was terminated by her death in 1891. A painstaking and affectionate wife and mother, she was no less re markable for her intellectual gifts, her bright and active mind, and her unfailing interest in all that was passing around her. They had six children, only two of whom reached maturity. Neither is now living. Miss Fanny Bowman, who died in 1879, was well known for her accomplishments and literary attainments. The son, Edward H.f was for several years his father's assistant in the bank. He died in THE CITY OF GARDINER. » 627 1886. He left two sons who are still living. Let us hope that they will be spared to perpetuate the honored name of their grandsire. Previous to 1820 Richard Clay, J. N. Cooper, A. Leonard and E. F. Deane organized the Franklin Bank in Gardiner, and became its di rectors. At the expiration of its charter another bank called by the same name was organized, of which John Otis of Hallowell, Joseph Eaton of Winslow, Stephen Young and William Stevens of Pittston,. and E. F. Deane of Gardiner were directors, and Lliram Stevens was cashier. This bank discontin ued business previous to 1850, and the closing of its affairs was involved in long and tedious liti gation. The history of the Gardiner Savings Institu tion is interest ing. It was in corporated June 6, 1834, and was organized at a meeting held in R. H. Gardiner's office, June 26, same year. Mr. Gardiner was chosen president and Peter Grant, Edward Swan, Arthur Berry, Enoch Jewett, Richard Clay, Dennis Ryan, Arthur G. Lith- gow, George Ev ans, H. B. Hos- kins,Henry Bow man, Jacob Da vis and George Bachelder were chosen trustees, and elected Ansyl Clark, treasurer. The first semi-annual report recited with evident satisfaction that the sum of $1,845.50 had been received on deposit, all of which it 628 HIST.ORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. was voted to loan to the town of Gardiner. The salary of the treasurer was about as lucrative as that of the ordinary town clerk in the present times— he received twenty dollars a year. Mr. Gardiner held the office of president until his death, in 1864. His successors, with the dates of their election, have been: Henry B. Hoskins, April 11, 1864; Robert Thompson, August 1, 1866; William Palmer, July 17, 1872; Robert Thompson, July 27, 1875; Weston Lewis, April 14, 1888; Isaac J. Carr, October 1, 1889. The treasurer, Ansyl Clark, was succeeded by H. B. Hoskins, August 13, 1836; James F. Patterson, July 15, 1840; Joseph Adams, July 19, 1843; James F. Patterson, July 21, 1847; Joseph Adams, July 17, 1850; H. B. Hoskins, August 1, 1866; Joseph S. Bradstreet, July 27, 1875; Weston Lewis, July 19, 1876; Henry S. Webster, April 14, 1888. Twenty-seven years after its incorporation the deposits and profits amounted to a quarter of a million dollars, and yet the bank never had a public place of business until 1866, the officers attending to its affairs at their own private offices. In 1891, at a cost of $30,000 they erected their own building, shown on page 627 — the finest structure in Gardiner — containing the strongest vault and the best safe in the state of Maine. The deposits in 1892 exceeded two million dollars. In a room now the private office of A. C. Stilphen in Gardiner, the Cobbosseecontee Bank began business in 1853. Later they erected the building opposite the present Gardiner National Bank. February 23, 1865, this bank became the Cobbossee National Bank. Edward Swan, Stephen Young, William Bradstreet, James Stone and Stephen J.Young were presidents, and its cashiers were Joseph Adams (who was Mr. Swan's son-in-law), Edwards S. Adams, Treby Johnson and Henry S. Webster. In 1884 the stockholders saw fit to wind up its affairs. The liquidation gave them 118 per cent. Under a charter dated July 11, 1884, the Merchants National Bank of Gardiner, Me., opened its rooms for business in Milliken Block, July 17, 1884, with a capital of $100,000. Charles Danforth, David Dennis, Edward Robinson, Weston Lewis and Joseph S. Bradstreet composed the first board of directors. David Dennis was chosen president, Jo seph S. Bradstreet vice-president, and Henry Farrington cashier, in which offices the present is their eighth year of service. At the death of Judge Charles Danforth in 1890, his son, Frederick, succeeded him; on Weston Lewis' resignation, in 1889, Harvey Scribner became a director, and in 1889 Captain Jason Collins succeeded Edward Rob inson. The Maine Trust & Banking Company of Gardiner, Me., is a char tered institution that was opened for business August 15, 1889, with a paid up capital of $100,000. In addition to doing a regular banking business, this company is an incorporated trustee, and has power by its charter to execute trusts of every description under appointment by courts, corporations or individuals, and is authorized to act as agent THE CITY OF GARDINER. 629 or trustee for the purpose of registering and countersigning bonds of any legal issue. It makes investment securities an important feature in its business, and has the first and only safe deposit vaults, with boxes for individual use, in the county. Its officers from the first have been: Weston Lewis, president; John F. Hill and Josiah S. Maxcy, vice-presidents; and John W. Dana, secretary, with a board of twelve directors. Gas and Water. — After the usual agitation of a new project, the Gardiner Gas Company was chartered by act of legisature in 1853, and F. A. Butman, jun., Josiah Maxcy and S. C. Moore were named as incorporators, with a capital stock of $35,000. Noah Woods was the first president, Josiah Maxcy was treasurer and clerk, and F. A. But man, jun., Edwin Bailey, H. B. Hoskins and S. Bowman constituted the board of directors. Only seventy out of five hundred shares of the stock could be placed in the city, the balance being taken abroad, and there were but eighty-four consumers of gas during the first year. Strange and hard to believe is the fact that the people of Gardiner continued to wend their way in darkness for years after gas was intro duced before they adopted it for their streets. In 1887 the gas com pany of Gardiner sold their plant to the Kennebec Light & Heat Company. By act of legislature the Gardiner Water Power Company was created a corporation in 1880. The incorporators were: Robert H. Gardiner, Frederic Gardiner, Francis G. Richards, Richard Sullivan, John T. Richards, Ellis A. Hollingsworth, Leonard Whitney, Samuel D. Warren, Charles Fairchild, Joshua Gray and Henry Richards. The corporation is authorized to purchase, construct, maintain, repair and rebuild dams, sluiceways, basins and canals on the Cobbosseecontee and its tributary waters, for the purpose of holding, storing, regulat ing and discharging the flow of water for the benefit of the water privileges and powers on said stream. John T. Richards was elected president, Josiah S. Maxcy treasurer and secretary, and Ellis A. Hol lingsworth and Josiah Gray the directors. Ground was broken in the construction of the Gardiner Water Works June 16, 1885, and . they were completed so that the city was served with water in the following November. The towns of Ran dolph and Farmingdale were subsequently connected with the Gardi ner system and are also efficiently supplied for fire protection and for domestic uses. Cobbosseecontee water is pumped from the pond above the upper dam into the reservoir situated on the Andrews farm, 110 feet above the surface of the Cobbosseecontee and 238 feet above the surface of the Kennebec river. This elevation proves to be ample to force water to the highest point in the city. The main pipe leading from the reservoir is twelve inches in diameter, which with the pres sure is capable of supplying a population three times that which is now 630 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. supplied. Fifty hydrants and fourteen miles of main pipe are in use. The actual daily consumption is about 300,000 gallons. The capital stock of the company is $200,000. Weston Lewis has been president and Josiah S. Maxcy treasurer, from, the first, and to their efforts and management the city is largely indebted for its excellent water sup ply. All the details are carefully administered by Gustavus Moore, superintendent. Ecclesiastical History. — The religious ideas of Doctor Gardiner and the other early comers took form first in the organization of an Episcopal church, but Puritanism soon colored the religious trend of the public mind and that in time was variously modified, so that in 1892 we find eleven distinct societies maintaining in the city regular services. A house of worship was erected, and St. Ann's Epis copal Church was estab lished by Dr. Sylvester Gar diner, in 1771. The next summer Rev. Jacob Bailey came and held the first meet ing in the unfinished house, on the 17th of August. The revolutionary war came on and Doctor Gardiner and Rev. Jacob Bailey both es poused the English side so strongly that they left the country. Doctor Gardiner died in 1786, leaving by will ' funds to finish the building, ten acres of land and an annuity of £27 per year " to the Episcopal minister for the time being of St. Ann's Christ's church, qardiner. Church in the said Gardin erston." His executors finished the church, placing thereon a tall steeple surmounted by a gilt sturgeon, then called a " Cobbossee." The society or parish was incorporated as the Episcopal Society in Pittston March 28, 1793, in answer to a petition signed by Jedediah Jewett, William Barker, Henry Smith, Henry Dearborn, Nathaniel Bayley, Seth Gay, Barzillai Gannett, Stephen Jewett, Samuel Lang and Reuben Moore. Rev. Joseph Warren was the first minister. The pews were arranged in three classes, and it was voted that those who THE CITY OF GARDINER. 631 sat in the first class should pay four pence, the second three pence, and the third two pence a Sunday. The following August the church was set on fire by a crazy man and burned, and regular meetings were held in the Great House. Another building was at once erected and ready for use in April, 1794, when it was voted to give Rev. Joseph Warren £12 " and the loose contribution money as a salary — and when he shall be married the parish will add £18 more." He was succeeded in 1796 by Rev. James Bowers, who left in 1802. Rev. Samuel Haskell became rector in 1803 and was followed by Aaron Humphrey, formerly a Methodist preacher. After 1813 there were no regular services in the society till Rev. Mr. Olney was called in 1817. The name of St. Ann's Church was changed for legal reasons, in 1818, to Christ's Church. The project ¦of building a new church found so much favor that the corner stone ¦of the present attractive church edifice, really one of the most de sirable in the state, was laid in May, 1819. The stones, which are of rare tint, were brought from a farm in Litchfield. The total cost was only $14,000. Mr. Olney resigned in 1825, Rev. T. W. Motte succeeded in 1828, Rev. Isaac Peck in 1830 and Rev. Joel Clap in 1832. The old meeting house of 1794, which had for many years been used as a town house, was burned in 1833. Mr. Clap's pastorate was a prosperous one and lasted till 1840, when Rev. William Babcock began a most successful pastorate, and was followed by Rev. George Burgess in 1847. Rever end Burgess, after accepting the pastorate of the parish, was made the first bishop of Maine and subsequently served the parish and the •diocese in this dual capacity until his death, April, 1866. Bishop Burgess was succeeded as rector by John McGrath to 1870, C. S. Lef fingweH to 1880, Leverett Bradley to 1885 and Charles L. Wells to 1888, when Allen E. Beeman, the present rector, was installed. The initial effort toward the formation of a Congregational society in Gardiner was at a private house, when Rev. Dr. Gillett, secretary ¦of the Maine Missionary Society, preached to a small gathering one rainy Sabbath in the spring of 1833. During the summer following he preached in the old school house on Summer street several times, and was followed by Daniel Hunt, of Andover Theological Seminary, who held services for three months in the old Masonic Hall. A move ment to organize a parish was perfected September 28th of the same year, and Seth Sweetser, a licentiate of Andover, was the next preacher, holding services first in the school house, next in the Masonic Hall and then in the Town Hall. On the 28th of July, 1835, ten individuals who had been members -of Congregational churches in other towns were organized into a •church, and during the winter following R. H. Gardiner showed his .interest in the young parish by giving it the present location, on 632 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. which after much difficulty a church was completed. The dedicatory services were held November 23, 1836, and the same day Rev. Seth Sweetser was installed pastor. Two years later he received a call from Worcester, Mass., and Aaron C. Adams, of Bangor, succeeded him July 10, 1839. After two years Josiah W. Peet, from Andover Seminary, received a call and was ordained pastor December 15, 1841. During his pastorate the house of worship was much improved by an organ and new furniture, and a vestry building was erected on a contiguous lot. In 1848 Mr. Peet was succeeded by W. L. Hyde, a Bangor stu dent, who was ordained in May, 1849. Since then the successive pas tors have been: Harvey M. Stone, 1857; John W. Dodge, 1860; Austin L. Park, 1864; Edgar Davis, 1882; and Richard W. Jenkins, who came in 1884, was installed in 1885, and under whose pastorate the society has enjoyed spiritual and material prosperity. The next year after his installation a religious awakening added thirty-five members to the church, which has continued to grow; the church edifice has been enlarged and repaired at an expense of over $8,000, and was rededi- cated April 8, 1890. The present membership numbers 155, with a large Sabbath school. Methodism was first preached in Gardiner by Reverends Comfort C. Smith, of Readfield, and Epaphrus Kibbey, of Massachusetts, in the summer of 1800. Meetings were held at Bowman's point in 1S02, and a church was built the next year, just north of Peter Grant's house. It was never finished, but was occasionally used by this society till about 1830, when it was taken down. The early Methodists in Gardiner were Moses Springer, sen., Eleazer Crowell, Ichabod Plaisted, James McCurdy, William Springer, Daniel Plummer, James Miller, Stephen Robinson, Nathan Sweatland and Harlow Harden. During the war with Great Britain, in 1812, some members of this society were such ardent federalists that they found fault with their minister, Sam uel Hillman, for upholding his government in his pulpit; they said it was " preaching politics." In 1821 the towns of Augusta, Hallowell and Gardiner were called the Hallowell circuit, containing 314 mem bers. Previous to 1821 the society used the meeting house at Bowman's point, and the school house near Ichabod Plaisted's, but for the next two years they worshipped in the old church the Episcopalians had used. Mr. Richard Clay built the " Yellow meeting house " at his own expense, and told David Hutchinson, the Methodist minister, that he " had given the house to the Lord and the key to father Plaisted." The services of the church were held there from 1822 to 1828, when the society moved into their new church, which was dedicated the same year, the eloquent John N. Maffitt preaching the sermon. The building cost $3,500, and with the addition of occasional repairs, is the Methodist church on High street, of to-day. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 633 In 1827 Gardiner was made a separate station, and had 159 church members, with Phineas Crandall pastor. His successors have been: John Atwell, Stephen Waterhouse, Justin Spaulding, R. E. Scher merhorn, Aaron Sanderson, John B. Husted, John W. Atkins, Moses Hill, Eaton Shaw, Joseph Colby, George Webber, J. C. Aspinwall, Parker Jaques, Daniel B. Randall, Charles Munger, Howell B. Abbott, Charles C. Mason, Charles W. Morse, Pascal E. Brown, W. S. Jones, John F. Hutchins, George D. Lindsay, Israel Luce, Edward C. Bass, George W. Hunt, Ammi S. Ladd and F. C. Haddock, the present pas tor. The church has a membership of 260 and is in a prosperous con dition. Benjamin S. Smith is president of the board of trustees. The Gardiner Village Baptist Church was organized in 1843. Its members were Rev. J. W. Lawton, B. H. Field, L. Parsons, E. Shep ard, Lucy V. Lawton, Nancy Field, Joan McCurdy, Mary A. Jewett, Pamelia Duganne, Mary White and Margaret Plaisted. Rev. J. W. Lawton was the first preacher, Martin Byrne was the second, J. B. Foster the third, Edwin Dibble the fourth, and M. J. Kelley, who came in 1851, was the fifth. The church building was sold in 1880 to the G A. R. Post for $1,000, and the society held no regular meetings for eight years. The ministers who preached in the old church were: Reverends E. Nugent, Mr. Tuck, G. P. Mathews, J. M. Follett, F. D. Blake, C. M. Herring and W. O. Thomas. After the interval of eight years spoken of, the present beautiful church was erected at a cost of $10,000, $6,500 of which was furnished by the Baptist convention, who hold a deed of the property. Rev. C. E. Owen, the present pastor, came in 1890. This growing church has eighty-three members. The Gardiner City Freewill Baptist Church was organized in 1826 by A. Bridges and J. Robinson, with Elder S. Robbins as occasional preacher. After a decline it was reorganized in 1836 by a council from the Windsor quarterly meeting. There were thirteen members, and Elder S. W. Perkins preached two years in the Clay meeting house. There was no steady pastor or preaching till Elder Hermon Stinson came in 1841 and staid three years, and was succeeded by Elder J. Stevens till 1846. The meeting house at the corner of Sum mer and Winter streets was built that year, costing $3,100, and was dedicated December 30th by Elder J. K. Staples, who preached for two years. Elders C. Phinney, D. Lancaster and P. Folsom each min istered to the church for a time. A Sabbath school was commenced in 1837 that flourished for fifteen years. From 1852 to 1892 the ministers of this church have been: Daniel Jackson, Charles E. Blake, Arthur Kavanagh, W. T. Smith, Jason Mar- riner, Samuel McKeown, S. E. Root, Winfield S. Stockbridge, George H. Child, Orrin Bartlett, S. C. Frost, B. G. Blaisdell, E. Manson, B. Minard, Jeremiah Phillips, G. W. Pierce, C. E. Cook and J. L. Monroe. 41 634 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. About 1870 this church passed through a severe experience of division and dissension among its members, some forty of them withdrawing and forming the Brunswick Street Church, which had a short, feeble existence and then expired. The meeting house of this church has been raised and turned about, and is being repaired at an expense of about $7,000. It is one of the most attractive church edifices in Gar diner. Charles Bridge commenced these repairs and paid the bills himself for a time, but received help from unexpected sources. The writings of Emanuel Swedenborg seem to have been first in troduced into Maine by John Savels, of Gardiner, as early as 1812. In 1836 the New Jerusalem Church, with sixteen members, was formed here, Reverends Samuel and Henry Worcester being occasional preachers. They were followed by the Rev. Adonis Howard in 1839, who was ordained the pastor in 1841, and preached here till poor health terminated his labors, in 1846. The society built a church on Bruns wick street, which was afterward sold to the Freewill Baptists, and has recently been converted into dwelling apartments. Summer services are held each year in the Universalist church by Rev. Julian K. Smyth, of Boston Highlands, John Goddard, of Cincinnati, and other ministers. Henry B. Hoskins, Alexander S. Chadwick, William Perkins, Eben F. Byram, Dr. James Parker and wife, and Captain Thomas G. Jewett were among the early members, and Mrs. Mary W. Swanton, Mrs. Worcester and Miss Dorcas Gay represent the present. The doctrine of universal salvation was preached in the old town house in Gardiner about 1820, by the venerable Hosea Ballou, one of the ablest men of his times. Barzillai Streeter and Elias Smith also preached occasionally in the old school house, and Reverends Sylvanus Cobb, W. A. Drew, Russell Streeter and others preached from time to time previous to 1835, at which time the first Universalist parish was formed. The records of the organization were lost, but it is known that Parker Sheldon, Major Gay, E. McLellan, J. Y. Gray, James Stew ard, J. G. Donnell and Silas Andrews were among its supporters. April 29, 1840, it was permanently reorganized with eighteen members. The church edifice, erected in 1842, cost $6,500, and was dedicated February 1, 1843. Rev. James P. Weston was the first resident pastor, the society growing under his ministry, which terminated in 1850. He was succeeded in November of the same year by Rev. John Wes ley Hanson, who wrote his history of Pittston and Gardiner durino- his pastorate here, which terminated in 1857. Since then A. R. Ab bott, Giles Bailey, L. J. Fletcher, J. M. Paine, William W. Nutting, who came in 1871, Charles A. Hayden, Walter S. Vail and Joseph S. Gledhill have been pastors of this church. In 1877 the vestry was built at a cost of $1,100, and the building has from time to time been furnished and repaired at a cost of several thousand dollars. Besides THE CITY OF GARDINER. 635 the Thomas Searls fund of five hundred dollars, the church has over three hundred dollars in its treasury. The Church of the Disciples was organized about 1850, largely through the efforts of Elder George Garraty, who came here from St. John's, N. B., and preached in the old Clay meeting house five or six years. He was succeeded by Elders Marquis, Marten and Harney. Benjamin Marston and Marvel Sprague were the first church officers. For the past two years this society has had no stated preacher, but regular meetings are held each Lord's day in the old " Yellow meet ing house " on Plaisted hill, that Richard Clay built and " gave to the Lord " in 1822. This is the oldest house of worship in the city, with the exception of Christ's Church. The Advent Church of Gardiner, organized August 23, 1891, with nineteen members, was the result of a series of tent meetings con ducted by Elder H. P. Seavey, of Mt. Vernon. Elder Elisha S. Newell is the resident licensed preacher, Henry D. Smith and Walter B. Mc Causland are deacons, and Elta M. Partridge is the secretary. The meetings of this society are held in the school house on North street. St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Gardiner was built by Rev. Charles Egan in 1858, then resident pastor of St. Mary's Church in Augusta, and was the result of a mission he had established here, and labored in with great zeal and faithfulness. It was dedicated in 1863 by Bishop Bacon, of Portland. Rev. Father M. C. O'Brien followed Father Egan, and was succeeded by Rev. Eugene M. O'Callaghan. Rev. Raphael Wissel, O. S. B., came in 1876, and was the first resident pastor. He was succeeded in 1880 by Rev. Jeremiah McCarthy, the present pas tor. The church is in a flourishing condition, having a property worth $12,000, and seating room for five hundred people. A combined movement in 1840 to build a church in South Gardi ner, in which Methodists, Free Baptists and Adventists joined with citizens of no denominational proclivities, resulted in the erection of the first building for religious worship in that section. For the ensu ing forty-five years it was in all respects a genuine union meeting house. The first two ministers, David Higgins and John Cumner, were Methodists; George Curtiss and H. F. Wood were Baptists; the fifth, Sanford K. Partridge, was an Adventist, and the next, C. C. Cone, was a Methodist, followed by Hagop H. Acterian, a Turk, Mr. Cushing, Episcopalian, Mr. Harding, Congregationalist, Mr. Bates, Adventist, and Frederick Newport, Congregationalist. The Congregational Church at South Gardiner was organized in 1883, with eleven members. Frederick Newport, Jacob Horton and Alfred L. Skinner were the first three pastors, succeeded by Silas N. Adams, the present minister, January 15, 1888. The union house of worship mentioned above is occupied by the society, and is still owned by the pewholders. It was repaired and enlarged in 1889 at a cost of 636 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. $2,500, and now presents an inviting appearance. A most commenda ble feeling of harmony exists throughout the entire community, with a certainty of additions in the near future to the present membership of fifty-five. The Freewill Baptists built at South Gardiner a small church about 1842, which was sold to J. W. Lawrence in 1877, and converted into the store he still runs. The Young Men's Christian Association, with a membership of 153, supports regular religious meetings and publishes a monthly journal. Public Schools.*— Very little is known of the introduction of any system of public education in Gardiner, the records furnishing but slight information upon the subject. Private schools were established early in the history of the town, when it was a part of Pittston. Hanson's history says: " The first teacher was Master Everson, one of the early settlers, who had taught school in Boston, but his methods not being up with the times, he came to Gardinerston, where he taught from house to house when he could find employment." Private schools, an outgrowth of this itinerant system of teaching, were at tended only by children whose parents were able to pay tuition. Free public schools were established about 1784. There is evi dence that the expenditure of public money for free education was at first strongly opposed by the early settlers, for in 1783 the town voted, " not to pay any schooling;" but in 1785 the selectmen were " appointed a Comrnity to hire a school master and Fix the Wards; who is to teach school and Reed a Sermon over every Sunday," and in 1787, " Voted that £30 be raised for schooling, to be paid in lumber or anything that the school Master will Receive." May 16, 1791, the town " voted to Raise £80 for schooling to hire a person to keep school and preach nine months." It is probable that the town was divided into four wards or sections, each receiving an equal share of the school and preaching fund, for in 1792 a vote was passed as follows: " Eastern River District may lay out the £20 raised for preaching in schooling." This district was what is now known as East Pittston. The first school house in Gardiner, a rude wooden building, with out lath, plaster or paint, was above the original stone grist mill that stood at the corner of Water and Bridge streets, on the lots now occu pied by the stores of C. W. Averili, Atkins & Co., and G. N. Johnson; but earlier than this a man named Hoogs had kept a school in the southeast room of Mr. Gardiner's house. When Gardiner was incor porated in 1803, the only public school house within the present city limits stood at the corner of Dresden avenue and School street, on the lot where Augustus Bailey's house now stands. This building was burned in 1812, and during the following year another was built on *By James M. Larrabee, secretary of the superintending school .committee. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 637 the lot now occupied by the Lincoln Street school house. During the erection of the new school house the school was kept in the only brick building then in Gardiner. This building, still standing, is the tene ment house next south of the public library. There was also a private school held in a building on Dresden avenue, nearly opposite the old parsonage, erected by individual sub scription. Children of the wealthier families attended here, and among them were Charles and Delia Tudor Stewart, a son and daughter of Commodore Stewart. Miss Stewart afterward became Mrs. Parnell and the mother of the late Charles Stewart Parnell, the great Irish statesman. This building was purchased by the town about 1820 and used for free school purposes. About 1820 a public school house was erected at the junction of Highland avenue and Winter street, and was used until 1840, when a new and larger one was built on Highland avenue, on the lot now occupied by John D. Stephenson's dwelling. Among the many teachers who wielded the rod in the old school house on the triangle were Dr. Gideon S. Palmer, afterward medical director at Washington, D. C, and Israel W. Woodward, a life-long resident of Gardiner. The first teacher in the new school house on the Stephenson lot was a Mr. Martin, of New Gloucester, Me., who boarded with James Elwell. Mr. Adams, afterward United States consul to the Chinchi Islands, also taught this school in 1843 or 1844. Prior to 1825 several other buildings for school purposes were erected within the town limits. One was on Summer street, known as No. 10, and another at the north end of the New Mills bridge on land now owned by A. E. Andrews. In 1825 there were in Gardiner, then including West Gardiner, twelve districts, with a school population of 941 ; $1,500 was appropriated, and six mills on a dollar assessed for school purposes. The average school year in each district was twenty-five weeks. There were no graded schools at that time, and pupils were classified according to size, rather than by educational qualification. But few books were used and without uniformity. Discipline was en forced by muscular power, and if the teacher lacked this quality the ¦chances were that the larger boys of the school would carry him out of doors and thereby cause his removal. Soon after Gardiner city was incorporated it contained eight dis tricts. In districts 1 and 2 a graded system was established, each dis trict having a grammar and three primary schools. Prior to this a new building had been erected at the New Mills, and in this district, No. 3, there was a mixed school. The remaining five districts were in Ward 6. Each district annually elected a school agent, whose duty it was to select teachers and provide for the necessities of the school. In 1860 there were 1,463 children between the ages of 4 and 21 years; $2,700 was appropriated for school purposes, and $574.44 was received from the state. The schools in the city proper had three 638 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. terms each of twelve weeks, and the rural schools two terms each- Two male teachers at forty dollars per month, and fifteen female teachers at three dollars per week, were employed. In 1861 an order was passed by the city council consolidating the districts, abolishing agents and putting the entire management of the schools in the hands of the school committee. This advance movement was accomplished by the influence of Hon. Noah Woods, then mayor, and who for many years had been an efficient member of the superintending school committee in the city. Since that time the graded system has been perfected; new school buildings erected at a cost of $30,000; improved methods of teaching adopted, and school books furnished free to the pupils of the city. The amount appropriated by the city council for t common schools in 1891 was $6,100, and about $3,700 was received from the state. The school year .'. _.J for the eleven graded schools is thirty-six weeks, divided into three terms of twelve weeks each. The four rural, or mixed schools, have three terms of ten weeks each. Five teachers are employed in the grammar schools, three in the intermedi ate, five in the primary, and four in the rural schools. These schools rank among the best in the state, and are a credit to the citizens who so liberally provide for them. The Gardiner Lyceum, established by R. H. Gardiner in 1822, was designed in all respects to be a college without dead languages. The building was of stone and had an excellent cabinet and chemical and philosophical apparatus. The first principal was Reverend Mr. Hale rector of Christ's Church. The patronage of the school was small, and in 1848 it was established as an academy, with Dr. G. S. Palmer as principal. Here many of our older citizens were educated. In 1851 the building was transferred to the city and a free high school was then established, and occupied it until the fall of 1870, when it was burned. The city hall was fitted up and used for the high school for a year or more. In 1871 the present high school building, shown in the above cut, was erected at a cost of $21,000 and dedicated to the use of the school, with appropriate ceremonies. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 639 The appropriation for high school purposes in 1860 was $850. and the amount received for tuition $114. Two teachers were employed, the principal receiving $600 per annum and the assistant $300. The number of pupils registered was 102. In 1891 the appropriation was $2,500; $500 was received from the state and $615.31 for tuition. Four teachers were employed. The principal received a salary of $1,500, and the three assistants $600, $550 and $500 respectively. The num ber of pupils registered was 156. The graduates of this school have always ranked well in scholarship, and many of them have held proim inent positions in the city and state. Libraries. — Since Doctor Gardiner, in 1786, bequeathed his pri vate collection of books for a public library in Gardiner, the com munity has been marked by a decided literary taste and habit. After his death his executors finished a small but suitable building to give effect to his generous intent. The Mechanics' Association, organized in 1841, was a positive edu cational force in the village, and owned a valuable library which was the nucleus of the present city library. Tho Ladies' Library of Gardiner, Farmingdale and Pittston was established some time in the fifties by Mrs. Bishop Burgess, Miss Maria Storrs, Miss Hannah Allen, Miss Lucy Nutting, Miss Hannah Whitmore, Miss Eliza Byram, Miss Fanny Bowman, Miss Lizzie Ad ams, Mrs. Seth Moore and others. It contained a selection of choice volumes and was carefully managed by the ladies, who donated it to the city after the city had received the Mechanics' Library. Gardiner Library Association was organized as a corporation Feb ruary 14, 1881. A constitution and by-laws were adopted, to which 68 names were signed as members. Leveret Bradley was elected president; Philip H. Holmes, vice-president; Treby Johnson, treas urer, and A. C. Stilphen, secretary. H. K. Morrell, Lizzie Curtis, Laura E. Richards, Clara I. Robinson and Clara. L. Clark were chosen directors. The city council was asked to assist in erecting a building, but declined, and the association proceeded resolutely to the under taking. After two years of hard work, in which the ladies bore a con spicuous share, the present excellent building was completed at a cost of $14,000. The succession of presidents since the first election has been: Philip H. Holmes, P. H. Winslow, W. J. Landers and E. W. Morrell. S. C. Whitmore and O. B. Clason preceded the present secretary, C. O. Wadsworth; and Joshua Gray, John Berry, H. K. Morrell, John T. Richards, William Palmer, James Nash, W. Perkins, M. C. Wads worth, H. S. Webster, J. D. White, P. H. Holmes, Weston Lewis, S. C. Whitmore, Henry Richards and J. W. Robinson have served as directors. 640 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Oak Grove Cemetery Association.— The initiatory movement which resulted in establishing this association was a public meeting held in Mechanics Hall, Saturday, September 21, 1844. Isaac N. Tucker was chairman and H. B. Hoskins was clerk. The incorporation was com pleted the 23d, when Parker Sheldon was elected president, Benjamin Shaw, jun., clerk, and Joseph Adams, treasurer. The succeeding presidents have been: George M. Atwood, John Berry, John Webb, Sumner Smiley and James D. White. Ansyl Clark, C. P. Branch, R. M. Smiley and C. O. Wadsworth have served as clerks. The ceme tery is finely situated on the west bank of the Kennebec, 150 feet above its surface, and south of the public square. It contains twenty acres, bought at different times from Simon Bradstreet and his heirs. The first purchase was five acres, which was dedicated in 1848. The receiving tomb, one of the best and most appropriately constructed in the state, was built in 1892 at a cost of $6,000. The taste and good judgment shown in the arrangement of the grounds and care of the lots, with their many beautiful and durable monuments, are alike an honor to the living and the dead. Societies and Lodges. — Previous to 1820 the only Masonic Lodges in the vicinity of Gardiner were Kennebec, at Hallowell, and Temple, at Winthrop. Belonging to these Lodges there were in 1819 about twenty-five Master Masons residing in Gardiner, Pittston, and that part of Hallowell called Bowman's point, now Farmingdale. Twenty- four of these applied to the Grand Lodge of Maine for a charter to open a Lodge of Master Masons under the name of Hermon Lodge, No. 32, F. & A. M. Their request and charter were granted, the lat ter bearing date January 23, 1820. Their first meeting was in the second story of a wooden building on Water street, then owned by Kindrick & Gould, next east of, and having a staircase in common with, the Keith House. The charter members were: Gideon W. Olney, John Stone, William Partridge, Thomas Gilpatrick, John Heseltine, David Neal, Robert Gould, Cyrus Kindrick, Joseph Y. Gray, Moses Springer, jun., George Cox, Daniel Nutting, Benjamin Cook, James Tarbox, R. Whittemore, Freeborn Groves, D. Woodward, James Capen, I. Wentworth, James Kidder, C. S. Freeman, Benjamin Shaw and Joshua Lord. The masters for the first fifty years were: Cyrus Kindrick, Thomas Gilpatrick, David Neal, Moses Springer, Benjamin Cook, Ezekiel Holmes, J. B. Walton, Stephen Webber, E. A. Chad wick, James McCurdy, Thomas Briery, D. C. Palmer, J. M. Colson, J. M. Larrabee, Thomas S. Foster, Augustus Bailey, J. E. Ladd, Charles Osgood and James L. Stoddard. The successive masters since 1869 have been: William Grant, James M. Colson, Martin Horn, Sanford W. Siphers, Henry S. Webster, William J. Landers, George L. Towle, L. W. Goodspeed, George W. Dow, Samuel W. Cutts, Charles O. Turner and Daniel H. Sherman. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 641 The higher degrees of Masonry have been conferred in Gardiner and are now represented here by Chapter, Council and Commandery. The Maine Commandery, Knights Templar, No. 1, the oldest Com mandery in the state, organized in 1800 and chartered in March, 1821, now has here a membership of 104. Adoniram Council, chartered May 5, 1869, has now a membership of about 40. Lebanon Chapter, No. 1 8, which began work under a dispensation in November, 1864, was chartered October 4, 1865, and includes in its membership of 140 a large proportion of the active Masons of the city. The official year begins in October. The succession of high priests, with year of elec tion, includes: James M. Larrabee, elected in 1864; Daniel C. Palmer, 1866; Augustus Bailey, 1868; Daniel C. Palmer, 1869; William Grant, 1870; R. R. Williams, 1872; William C. Palmer, 1874; Martin Horn, 1876; Philip H. Winslow, 1879; George W. Gardiner, 1881; Henry S. Webster, 1882; William J. Landers, 1884; George W. Dow, 1886; An syl B. Booker, 1888; and Thomas A. Jewett since October, 1890. Ionic Lodge, of Free Masons, No. 136, received a charter in May, 1866, which .was surrendered in December, 1881. Kennebec Council, No. 796, Royal Arcanum, is located at Gardiner. The first regent, G. S. Steward, was succeeded in 1890 by O. M. Blan chard, with Walter Robinson, secretary. Warren Division, No. 2, Sons of Temperance, was chartered by the National Division of North America, February 4, 1845, and was organ ized at Gardiner on the 18th of the same month. The charter mem bers were: Reuben M. Smiley, Joel H. Snow, Josiah Maxcy, John Berry, jun., Isaac N. Tucker, Dr. Gideon S. Palmer and Edmund Chadwick. R. M. Smiley was its first worthy patriarch; Rev. J. P. Weston, worthy associate; E. A. Chadwick, recording scribe; G S. Palmer, financial scribe. Doctor Palmer, who was the last surviving charter member, died in Washington, D. C, December 8, 1891. War ren Division is the oldest temperance organization in the state, and has on its constitution the names of a majority of the leading men in the city in the last forty years. Like all other organizations it has had its ups and downs, and though not now as prosperous as it has some times been, it has on its rolls upward of ninety members. Though unaggressive in its work, it has always been instrumental of good, illustrating one of the maxims of the order, " That unwavering fidel ity is a better advocate than violent denunciation." The names of such men as Reuben M. Smiley, Hon. John Berry, Joseph L. Mitchell, and many other well known citizens who were worthy members of it till their deaths, are a sufficient guarantee that it is well worthy the support of all friends of temperance. Ex-Governor Sidney Perham, -of Paris, and that well-known apostle of temperance, Rev. D. B. Ran dall, of Portland, are still members of Warren Division. James D. Moore, who joined Warren Division April 7, 1845, at the time of his 642 history of kennebec county. death was the oldest member of the order and of the Grand Division in the state. The Gardiner Reform Club was the parent organization of that body of temperance workers for twenty years known as the! reform clubs. Its beginning was announced on a little handbill about eight by twelve inches, saying that there would be a meeting of reformed drinkers at City Hall, Gardiner, on Friday evening, January 19, 1872. A cordial invitation was extended to all " occasional drinkers, con stant drinkers, hard drinkers, and young men who are tempted to drink. Come and hear what rum has done for us." This call was signed by J. K. Osgood, E. A. Chadwick, William B. Shaw and M. F. Marbel. This society did a great work for a while, and still holds regular weekly meetings in this city. J. K. Osgood kept his pledge till death, and was always a prominent worker in the organization, of which he was undoubtedly the founder. Court Robert Emmett, No. 7837, Ancient Order of Forresters of America, was organized in Gardiner May 7, 1890, with fifty charter members — Augustus A. Brann, C. R., and Joseph Esmond, S. C. R. Gardiner Lodge, No. 9, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, w as- instituted in June, 1874, with fourteen charter members. The first presiding officer was M. S. Wadsworth. In May, 1885, the Odd Fel lows of Gardiner and vicinity organized Evergreen Encampment, No. 45, which has since prospered. June 11, 1886, Canton Evergreen, No. 12, was organized. Gardiner Lodge, No. 9, Knights of Pythias, was instituted May 29,. 1873, and has always been an honor to the order, having at present 178 active members. Dirigo Lodge, No. 1, A. O. U. W., instituted in Gardiner, Saturday night, March 15, 1879, was the introduction of this order in the state of Maine. There were twenty charter members, of whom William Wiley was master workman and Gustavus Moore was recorder. The next Monday night the Lodge held its first regular meeting, when G. S. Steward was initiated, the first man who joined the order in the state of Maine. This Lodge is strong and has 260 members. The successive master workmen have been: William Wiley, Gustavus Moore, G. S. Steward, Richard Plaisted, Smith R. Morrell, Oscar Mc Causland, John S. Towle, E. Clarence H. Smith, W. D. Clifford, J. R. Peacock, H. L. Edwards, Warren L. Tozier, A. E. Andrews and H. L. Cocker. In addition to the above the following orders are represented in Gardiner city: Branch 1027, Order of the Iron Hall, E. L. Blake, C. J.; Cobbossee Colony, Pilgrim Fathers, Mrs. H. M. Huntington, governor; Kennebec Commandery, J. A. Berry, N. C; and Nahumkeag Tribe, I. O. R. M., C. F. Johnson, sachem. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 643 PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. Arthur E. Andrews, son of Arthur and Olive (Welch) Andrews, and grandson of John Andrews, of Wales, was born in Monmouth in 1831. His maternal grandfather was John Welch, of Monmouth. Arthur E. came to Gardiner in 1837 with his father, who bought the farm where he now lives, which was settled in 1803 by Ichabod Went worth. Mr. Andrews is a farmer. He was four years street commis sioner and six years in city council. He is one of the executive offi cers of the State Pomological Society. He married Caroline Neal. Their children are: Elmer H., Elwin W., Howard E., and one that died, Greanleaf E. Captain Eleazer W. Atwood, son of Thompson Atwood, was born in 1834, and has been a resident of Gardiner since 1845, where he has been a millwright. He served in the late war from June 5, 1862, to^ June 5, 1865; was promoted from first lieutenant to captain of Com pany B, 16th Maine Volunteers, December 4, 1S62. He was a member of the city council in 1873, 1874 and 1875, and served as chairman of the committee on paving and sewerage. He has been for eight years a member of the republican county committee and twenty years a member of the city committee. He was postmaster at Gardiner from May, 1890, to May, 1892. He married Lizzie N. Palmer, and has one son, Willis P. Amos Y. Bartlett, son of Amos and Sophia (Beane) Bartlett, and grandson of Isaac Bartlett, was born at Brentwood, N. H., in 1838, came to South Gardiner in 1870 and bought the farm where he has since been engaged in farming and market gardening. His first wife, Angie C. Gove, died in 1872. They had one daughter, Mabel, who died. His present wife was Martha Purington. William M. Bartlett, born in Gardiner, September 16, 1855, son of John C. Bartlett, is the great-grandson of William1, and the grandson of William2, of Methuen, Mass., where the house is still standing in which the latter, one of fifteen children, was born in 1775. He be came a school teacher and married Dolly Merrill, of Durham, Me., from whence they came on horseback and settled on the Brunswick road in Gardiner. Their son, John C, born in 1816, married Lydia S. Robinson, of Durham. In 1849 he went to California. Returning, he went into business in 1851, with B. F. Johnson. Of their six children, William M., one of the four now living, married Carrie Atherton in 1882. They have one child, Ralph. John C. Bartlett, who died in 1882, was senior member of the firm of Bartlett & Dennis, in which William M. now fills his father's place. Rev. Allen E. Beeman, born in 1855, is the only living child of Fred erick D. Beeman, a lawyer of Litchfield, Conn. Both were graduates of Yale, the father in 1842, the son in 1877. Frederick D. married 644 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Maria A. Brisbane, whose mother was a granddaughter of Alexander Gillon, who came from Rotterdam to Charleston, S. C, in 1754, where he became the first commodore of the American navy, and com mander of the ship South Carolina. Reverend Beeman, after leaving Yale, studied a year and a half at Oxford. Eng., and then prepared for the ministry under Bishop Williams at Middletown, Conn., was or dained in 1880, and came to Gardiner as rector of Christ's Church in 1888. In 1885 he married Sarah C. Carrington, of Farmington, Conn. They have one child, Charles C. Joseph Booker, son of Jacob and Sarah (Stevens) Booker, and grand son of Eliphalet Booker, was born in 1819. He is a farmer and has held several city offices. He married Esther, daughter of John K. and Sarah (Cleaves) Niles. Their only son is Burton E. Timothy Booker, born in 1822, is a son of James and Hannah (Huntington) Booker, and grandson of Eliphalet Booker. He is a farmer. His wife is Lydia A. Booker, sister of Joseph, above. Their children are: Marilla (Mrs. Alonzo Totman), Cynthia J. (Mrs. C. H. Williams), Nellie (Mrs. Martin Peacock), and Morrill (deceased). Abiud Bradley, born in 1812, in Yarmouth, Mass., is a son of Abiud and Jane (Baxter) Bradley, whose father died on board the prison ship Jersey in the revolutionary war. Mr. Bradley came from Yarmouth in 1817 to Vassalboro, where he lived until 1851, with the exception of twelve years when he was in South Carolina in the shoe business. He was a shoemaker and shoe merchant in Gardiner until 1878. He mar ried Susan E. Bee, of South Carolina, who died, leaving four children: Margaret (Mrs. Robert M. Brown), Susan A. (Mrs. James H. Sewall), Sarah E. and Jane B. (Mrs. Edwin H. Roberts). Simon Bradstreet, once governor of Massachusetts, the ancestor of all who bear this name in New England, was born at Horbling, Eng., in 1603, and came to America in 1630 in the Arbela. He married in England, Anna, daughter of Thomas Dudley. Their son, John Brad street, was born in Andover, July 22, 1652, and died in Topsfield, Mass., January 17, 1717. He married Sarah, daughter of Rev. William Per kins. Their son, John, born in Topsfield, January 30, 1693, married Rebecca, daughter of John and Sarah (Dickinson) Andrews. Their son, Andrew, born at Windham, Conn., March 28, 1722, married Mary Hill, who died in 1771. His second wife, Joanna Hill, died in Gardi ner in 1817. He died in Gardiner in 1804. His son, Joseph, born in Biddeford, Me., January 21, 1765, married Ruth Moore. Their son, William, was born in Gardiner, January 13, 1793. He was a ship builder and owner from 1818 to his death, May 14, 1868. His wTife, Abby J., was a daughter of Major Peter Grant, of Farmingdale, a noted shipbuilder and owner. William Walter Bradstreet, son of Wil liam and Abby J., born in Gardiner in 1817, married Julia S., daughter of Captain James Tarbox, of Gardiner, and granddaughter of Eleazer THE CITY OF GARDINER. 645 Tarbox, who came to Gardiner from Biddeford, Me. Their only sur viving child is Alice (Mrs. H. G. White), whose children are Percy G. and Marion. Charles Bridge, son of Jeremiah, jun., and Sally (Cox) Bridge, was born at Bowdoin, Me., in 1822, went to Litchfield in 1836, and in 1839 came to Gardiner, where he was employed in lumber manufacturing until 1876. He married Nancy, daughter of Samuel Amee. He is a prominent member and supporter of the Free Baptist church of Gardiner. Thomas Burnham, born December 5, 1833, is a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Rhodes) Burnham, and grandson of Ebenezer and Abigail (Libby) Burnham. Mr. Burnham is one of eight children, seven of whom are living. He is superintendent of the F. G. Richards farm, where he has been since 1862. He married Mary J., daughter of Gil more and Abigail (Troop) Blair. Their only daughter is Emma C. (Mrs. H. F. Libby), who has two sons. David C. and Edgar N. Burr, grocers, are the grandsons of David C. Burr, of Litchfield, a member of the legislature and a man of mark among the early settlers of that town. William F. Burr, his son, mar ried Mary Neal, of West Gardiner, and settled in Gardiner city, where they became the parents of five children, three girls and two boys. David C. Burr, the elder of the two sons, was born in 1849, and mar ried Caroline, daughter of William Gowell, of Gardiner, in 1880. Ed gar N. Burr was born in 1853, and married Anna L., daughter of An drew Berry, of Gardiner, in 1882. Henry Payson Closson, the fourth of the six children of George C. ancl Sarah (Howard) Closson, and grandson of Deacon Nehemiah Clos son, of Deer Isle, Me., was born in December, 1841. He was brought up a farmer in his native town, enlisted at the age of twenty in the 16th Maine, was at Antietam, lost his health, and was sent home. The next year he entered the navy, where he served till the close of the war. After several years' service as bookkeeper in a lumber business at Fairfield, he came to Randolph in 1882 and became a member of the present firm of Putnam & Closson, saw and planing mill proprie tors. Henry P. Closson, in 1865, married Ellen U., daughter of Jacob Weymouth, of Fairfield, Me. George C. died in 1881. Sewall B. Collins, engaged in the grocery business in 1882 on Water street, Gardiner. The first four years he was in partnership with Mr. Wilkins; from May, 1886, to September, 1890, he was sole owner; then the business was discontinued until April, 1891, when the firm of S. B. Collins & Co. was formed, with C. C. Wentworth as partner; February 15, 1892, Mr. Collins bought out Mr. Wentworth, and has since continued the business alone. Samuel W. Cutts, son of Washington Cutts, of Pittston, was born in 1846. He began in 1862 as engineer of steamboats and continued «646 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. until 1880, running both stationary and steamer engines. Since 1880 he has been superintendent of the Gardiner Gas & Electric Light 'Company's works. He married Ellinette, daughter of William Wat son, of Pittston. Frederick Danforth, son of Judge Charles Danforth, was born in 1848. After leaving the North Bridgeton Academy he entered Dart mouth College, graduating in the scientific course in 1870. His studies had all been with special reference to the profession of civil engineer ing, upon which he immediately entered, choosing railroad engineer ing as a specialty. After an engagement with the European & North American railway, he established, in 1876, his present office in Gardi ner, and in 1891 he was elected a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers. In 1880 he married Caroline, daughter of Caleb Stevens, of Randolph. Their four children are: George C, Margaret, Richard S., and Eleanor. J. Prescott Davis, the photographer, is a native of Corinth, Me. He came to Gardiner in January, 1885, as assistant to G. F. Mcintosh, and in September, 1890, bought the studio which H. H. Cochrane had ¦established four years previous. David Dennis, president of the Merchants National Bank of Gardi ner, was born in Litchfield in 1836. From Litchfield Academy he taught schools, public and private, eight or nine years, and in 1862 came to Gardiner as clerk for Bartlett, Barstow & Co. The same year he bought out Mr. Nickerson, and two years later Mr. Barstow retired, and the flour, feed and grain firm became Bartlett & Dennis. Mr. Dennis married Mr. Bartlett's daughter, Julia S., and has three chil dren: Harriet, John B., with Blair & Co., bankers, New York; and Harry Ray. The firm of Bartlett, Dennis & Co. for three years in cluded George N. Johnson and S. N. Maxcy. Mr. Dennis' father, John, from Ipswich, Mass., settled in Litchfield in 1789, where he married Harriet, daughter of Joseph Sawyer, and for more than thirty years was treasurer of the town. Fuller Dingley is the son of Parker Dingley, a farmer of Bowdoin - ham, who married Ruth Bates of the same town, where they had chil dren — William, died young; Betsey; second William; Fuller, born in 1832; James B., and Alvin, who was lost at sea. At the age of seven teen Fuller came to Gardiner and learned the carpenter's trade. Later, while living in Newport, R. I., he enlisted and served under Burnside; was taken prisoner at Jackson, Miss., in July, 1863, and confined in Libby, Macon, Charleston and Columbia rebel prisons; was sick; ex changed December, 1864, and came to Gardiner in 1865, where he has been engaged ever since with his brother, James B., in the hardware trade, under the firm name of Dingley Brothers. Fuller Dingley married Mary J. Parkinson, and has two children: Fred B. and Emily G. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 646a The firm of Dingley Brothers represents the longest established and the largest coal trade in Gardiner and one of the oldest hardware houses. James Bates Dingley, its founder, whose portrait appears on the following page, was born in Bowdoinham August 27, 1834, and remained on the home farm till the age of seventeen. The next two years he taught school winters and during summers attended the then famous Litchfield Liberal Institute. At the age of twenty he came to Gardiner and entering Seth Wood's hardware store as a clerk he took up what has proved to be the pursuit of his life. After an experience of three years in Gardiner, his employer sent him to manage a store in the same line of trade in Haverhill, Mass., where he remained two years, when Mr. Wood retired from business. Returning to Gardiner in 1859, James B. rented the Wood store and embarked in the hard ware trade for himself. In 1865 his brother, Fuller Dingley, returned from the war and joined in the co-partnership that still exists. Closely observant of the needs of the community, James B. had decided that the coal trade, although new, was an inviting field of enterprise. There was no regular dealer. People who used hard coal joined together and bought from 200 to 300 tons per year. The new firm bought a stock and sold about 500 tons the first year. The increase to thirty times that quantity, which this firm alone now sells yearly, is a surprising exhibit. Dingley Brothers, in 1868, established the Gardiner Spring Com pany, which they sold in 1870 to the Wentworth Spring Company. They are now the chief owners of the Gardiner Tool Company, which makes axes and ice tools. In 1889 the Dingley Hardware Company was organized, which has charge of that branch of the business, Dingley Brothers still retaining the coal trade. They own a large block of real estate, on which stand their store and the extensive coal sheds that cover the most of what used to be the Grant and the Bradstreet wharves. From 1873 to 1878, inclusive, J. B. Dingley was a member of the city government, the first three years as an alderman and the last three as mayor. It was during, this period that the memorable con tests over the paving of Main street and the building of the present grammar school were fought and won by the friends of improvement. At that time there was but one good school house in the city, and the condition of Main street in bad weather cannot be depicted. Mr. Dingley has always been a republican in politics and a Uni versalist in religious belief. His mother died in 1847 and his father in 1858. He has two grandchildren: Helen O., daughter of John and Emma (Dingley) Bradley, and James R., son of Sidney and Mabel (Dingley) Decker. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 647 James B. Dingley, ex-mayor of Gardiner, a son of Parker and Ruth ¦(Bates) Dingley, of Bowdoinham, was born in 1834, the fifth in a family of six children. He came to Gardiner in 1854, entering Seth Wood's hardware store as a clerk. In 1859 Mr. Dingley established in the same store the hardware trade which he and his brother, Fuller, who became a partner in 1865, still conduct. For over twenty-five years they have also been coal dealers. In 1858 James B. married Maria McKenny, of Greene. Their children are: Emma (Mrs. J. A.Bradley, of Worcester, Mass.), Mabel (Mrs. Sidney Decker), Clara (Mrs. Dr. Ben. Turner), and Etta, all except the first now residing in Gardiner. Martin Esmond was born in Ireland, came to Gardiner from Boston in 1810, and was a merchant on Water street. His wife, Jane, was a daughter of Richard and Margret (Lowry) Stuart. The children of Martin Esmond were: John, born in 1818, died at Montreal in 1834, and Bernard, born in 1820, kept store on Water street until he went to California in 1850. During the war he was sutler to the 16th Maine Volunteers. He was married in 1839 to Mary O'Brien. Their children were: George, Joseph, Elizabeth and John. Elizabeth was married in 1885, to Charles E. Fuller, of Hallowell, and has two children: Tom Scott and Mary E. William D. Haley, son of Woodbridge Haley, was born in 1852 at Pittston. He has been superintendent of the Haley Ice House since 1873; they were at South Gardiner until 18S5, since which time they have owned buildings situated in the town of Richmond. Mr. Haley has a farm of fifty acres at South Gardiner, where he devotes some attention to breeding horses. He married Lucinda Lizette, daughter of James D. Moore. Their two children are: Harry D. and Jose phine T. Frederick D. Harmon, son of Humphrey and Sarah (Murry) Har mon, was born in 1838 at Boston, Mass. He came with his parents to Gardiner in 1841, and settled on the farm where he now lives. He is a farmer, as was his father. He married Hannah K, daughter of Michael and Patience (Knox) Hildreth. Their three sons are: Amasa E., Richard F. and Frederick H. Andrew J. Hooker, city liquor agent of Gardiner, is a son of Riverius and Hannah (Chaddock) Hooker, of Gardiner, and grandson of Riverius Hooker, of Litchfield, Me., who was a descendant of Rev. Thomas Hooker, the first minister in Hartford, Conn. Andrew J. Hooker, the fourth of thirteen children, was born in South Lee, Mass., in 1837, came to Gardiner in 1849, and married Harriet Knox, of Bow doin, in 1859. Their children are: Harry, Fred, Calvin, who died in 1888, at the age of twenty-one, and Gracie. Mr. Hooker served in the civil war as sergeant of Company I, 24th Maine Volunteers. He was • chief engineer of the Gardiner Fire Department from 1883 to 1888; 648 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. has been in the city council two years, and is now alderman from the Fourth ward and city liquor agent. Myrick Hopkins (1800-1891).— For sixty-eight years preceding his death on the 7th of April, 1891, Myrick Hopkins had been a resi dent of Gardiner, and as a business man had been intimately identi fied with the material and moral growth of the city. He was of the seventh generation in direct line of descent from Stephen Hopkins1, the Pilgrim, who came in the Mayflower in 1620. Stephen's son, Giles2, married Catherine Wheldon in 1639, and their son, Stephen3, born in 1642, resided in Harwich, Mass., where he married Mary Myrick, and thus the name Myrick came into the Hopkins family, and frequently recurs as a Christian name. Joseph Hopkins4 was born in 1684; in 1707 he married Mercy Mayo, and their son, Prince Hopkins6, born in 1729, married Patience Snow in 1752 or 1753, and raised seven chil dren: Seth, Thomas, Sarah, Joseph, Nathaniel, Prince and Elizabeth. This Prince Hopkins0, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Harwich, Cape Cod, where four generations of his ancestors had lived, September 23, 1769, and married Phebe Morse. He followed the sea as a whaleman until 1804, when, with his wife and five chil dren, he came up the Kennebec to Hallowell in a sailing packet, whence he made his way by the primitive forest road to New Sharon, and settled on a farm on which they lived — he until his death, July 4, 1854, and she until her death, May 2, 1856. Their ten children— the generation to which Myrick Hopkins belonged — were: Sally (1794- 1869); Joshua (1797-1879); Myrick; Phebe (1803-1875); Eliza, 1806; Lewis, 1808; Prince (1810-1882); Seth (1813-1884); George, 1815; and Betsey, 1818. Myrick', the fourth of the ten, was born in Brewster, Mass., Sep tember 24, 1800; thus he was four years old when with his mother and younger sister on a single horse, they found their way from the Ken nebec to the New Sharon home, thirty miles distant, where in a log house the next fifteen years of his life were passed. In 18>9 he went to Readfield, Me., and in a shoe shop learned the trade upon which he depended to get his start in life. In 1823 he came to Gardiner in the employ of Nutting & Cook, tanners. They did a large business in green hides and wool, in which the good judgment of Mr. Hopkins as their clerk proved very valuable to them. The habits of economy which he had formed on the farm proved valuable to him, and he soon found the firm was his debtor to a considerable amount. The firm be came insolvent, and in partial settlement with Mr. Hopkins he took the little ofiice and store which they had built in 1826, and in it he continued the business on his own account as long as he lived. As a buyer and shipper of hides and wool he became known to half the farmers of Kennebec county, and by his undeviating honesty he set a worthy example, and enjoyed to the close of his life in an un- Q /if?.'mA THE CITY OF GARDINER. 649 usual degree the confidence of the business public. Candor, upright ness and fairness were foundation principles with him, yet his acquisi tions confirm the adage that honesty is the best policy as well as the best principle; for in the quiet, almost uneventful life he lived he reached a substantial material result. Nor did he allow his private business to absorb his whole force. When the city government was organized, in 1850, he took a seat as alderman; he served as warden of Christ's Church for many years, and at his death had been a director of the Oakland Bank for more than twenty years. In securing a rail road for Gardiner he was active and useful; he had been a stockholder in the steamboat line and a director of the Gardiner Bridge Company; and to the end of his days filled up the full measure of the upright citizen and useful man. He was twice married; first to Harriet Mason, whose surviving son is Augustus Hopkins, and second to Abigail Dodge Mason, who died in 1S88, leaving two daughters — Sophronia M. (Mrs. William Woodward) and Henrietta M., now the widow of James O. Barnard. Mrs. Barnard was married in 1869. Her husband died in 1874, leaving one son, Leonard Myrick Barnard, born August 26, 1870, and now a promising student in the Boston School of Technology. Mr. Hopkins was strongly attached to his home, and prized very highly his home life. He erected his pleasant residence, the Hopkins Homestead, on Highland avenue, now the home of Mrs. Barnard, in 1859, and here he enjoyed his serene old age. William C. Jack is the great-grandson of Andrew Jack, who settled in Litchfield about 1790, married Fannie Merriman, and had sons: Sam uel, Joseph, Andrew and Walter. Samuel had thirteen children. Bar- zillai, the eldest, married Hannah Denslow, by whom he had one son, William C, and four daughters. William C, the eldest child, born in Litchfield in 1832, married Pheba Ann, daughter of John Clay, of Pier- mont, N. H. They have two children: Flora G, now Mrs. Churchill, of Newburyport, Mass., and Phillip C, now attending Gardiner school. Dr. Clarence S. Jackson, born in 1849, is the only son of Elijah and Elizabeth (Lord) Jackson, and grandson of Elijah Jackson, whose father, Thomas — a revolutionary soldier — settled in Pittston and mar ried Rachel Colburn in 1782. Doctor Jackson married Alice M. Dins more, and has one daughter, Gertrude M. He pursued dental studies and graduated in Lewiston, Me. His first professional work was in Richmond, 1874 to 1878, when he began in Gardiner his present dental practice. William Jewell, born in 1821, is a son of Henry and Nancy (True) Jewell, and grandson of Captain Henry Jewell. Mr. Jewell's father was born in Litchfield in 1786, and died there in 1859. He was a lum ber merchant and manufacturer in Gardiner and other places for many 42 650 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. years. Mr. Jewell was for several years engaged in teaming in Gardi ner, and since 1882 he has kept a livery stable. He married Elmira, daughter of Captain John Landerkin. Their children are: Clara, Lenora, Frank (deceased), and Draper C. Benjamin Johnson is the son of Daniel Johnson, of South Gardi ner, whose father, Andrew Johnson, came from New Hampshire. Daniel married Eliza Waitt and raised a family of ten children. Ben jamin went to sea at the age of nineteen, to California in 1850, and back to Gardiner in 1856, and the same year married Mary A. Harris, of Winthrop, who died in 1861. They had one child, who died in February, 1858. In 1881 he married Henrietta Loring, of Gardiner. In 1857 Mr. Johnson bought the Cobbossee House, and kept it as the Johnson House for thirty-one years. It is now called Young's Hotel, after its present proprietor. Mr. Johnson opened the Johnson Hall in 1864, and in 1888 enlarged and refitted it, changing its name to the Johnson Opera House. Freeman A. Johnson, born in 1838, is a son of Benjamin and Han nah (Robinson) Johnson, and grandson of Andrew Johnson. He served in the army one year in Company I, 24th Maine Volunteers. He was then in a variety store in Gardiner until 1S73, when he opened his present ice cream and confectionery store. He married Sarah Farris. Their children are: Hattie E. and Ben. F. (deceased). Thompson S. Keenan's father, Luther, and his grandfather, James, were born in Wales, Me., and his great-grandfather, James Keenan, was born in Dublin, Ireland, and came to America during the revolu tionary war, and settled one of the first farms in the town of Wales. Luther married Louisa Gray, of Monmouth. She died May 15, 1892, aged 101 years and 21 days. Their children were two boys and three girls. Thompson S., the second child and first boy, was born in Brunswick, Me., in 1826, and came to Gardiner in 1844, where he married Mary E., daughter of Stephen Pallard. Their children were: Addie, Ida May and Mary Etta. Mr. Keenan was a seafaring man till 1861, when he enlisted in the navy and served in the gulf squadron. William J. Landers, manager of the Kennebec Reporter, was born in Gardiner, Me., October 24, 1849, the youngest son of David and Mar garet Landers. His early years were spent in Gardiner, attending the city schools. Leaving the high school in 1864, he attended Augusta Commercial College, graduating in 1865. After three years' service as bookkeeper in the P. C. Holmes Company's office, he went South. He returned in 1876, in October, 1877, entered the office of the Kenne bec Reporter, and has been connected with that publication ever since. January 3, 1880, he was married to Ella F. Drake, and they have two children. Mr. Landers has been grand chancellor of the Grand Juris diction of Maine, Knights of Pythias, and district deputy grand mas- THE CITY OF GARDINER. 651 ter of the 11th Maine Masonic District; he is at present grand general issimo of the Grand Commandery of Maine, Knights Templar, presi dent of the Kennebec Valley Press Club, recording secretary of the Maine Press Association, a director of the Gardiner High School and a director of the Gardiner Public Library. James M. Larrabee7 (Daniel6, born 1805; John6, born 1769; Philip4, born 1744; John3; Thomas', killed by Indians in Scarboro, 1723; Wil liam1 married in Maiden, Mass., 1655) was born in Wales, Me., in 1833. He has served in both branches of the Gardiner city council as president, and since July 28, 1885, has been judge of the police court of the city. John5 settled in Wales before 1794 and raised eleven chil dren. Daniel6 married Sabrina Ricker, represented Wales in the legis lature in 1845 and 1848, and removed to Gardiner in 1856, where they both died. J. W. Lash, contractor and builder, was born in Waldoboro in 1845, but before locating in Gardiner in 1878 he had been largely and suc cessfully engaged in building in Massachusetts — residing in Somer ville. He has built some of the finest structures in Gardiner, including the savings bank building, completed in 1891. Llewellyn Lennan, son of James and Lucy (Hildreth) Lennan, and grandson of David Lennan, was born in 1836 in Richmond, Me., and came to Gardiner in 1863, where he is a farmer and wholesale meat merchant. He married Emeline, daughter of Daniel and Elmira (Smith) Hildreth. Their children are: James D., Charles H. and two that died in infancy. Edwin E. Lewis, son of Horatio N. Lewis, of Cornish, N. H., was born in 1846. He went into the army in 1865 and fought under General Sheridan in the Shenandoah valley. He came to Gardiner in 1875 and became a contractor and builder. For the past fifteen years Mr. Lewis has given his attention entirely to plans and specifications, and is the recognized authority on architecture in Gardiner. He married Augusta C. Jackins in 1866. .They have one child, Arthur E. Weston Lewis, president of the Maine Trust & Banking Company of Gardiner since 1889, was born December 26, 18.30, in what is now Randolph, where his father, Warren R. Lewis, was a farmer and lum berman. The latter was a son of Rev. Stephen Lewis, of Jefferson, Me., who was born at Booth Bay, Me., where the family name fre quently occurs. By teaching a portion of the time Weston Lewis com pleted the collegiate course of Bowdoin, graduating with the class of '72. He then taught in the Gardiner High School until the close of the fall term of 1874. At about this time he became a clerk in the Gardiner Savings Institution, and from that may be dated his rela tions to the banking interests of Gardiner, by which, and through the presidency of the city water company, he is best known locally. His 652 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. home is in Gardiner, where in 1876 he married Eleanor W., daughter of Charles H. Partridge. Their children are: Carleton, born in 1878, and Henry, born in 1881. His relation to the Kennebec Central Rail road Company and the Maine Water Company, in both of which he is president, is noticed in another chapter. Samuel C. McKenney was born in Woolwich, Me., in 1819, and re moved in 1823 to Kingfield, Me. He came to Gardiner in 1846 and engaged in the jewelry business, which he continued until 1864, when he closed it up for about eighteen months while he was in the army in Company F, 7th Maine Volunteers. The business was resumed in 1886, and since 1890 the firm has been S. C. McKenney & Son; George L., who has worked in the business several years, being now the junior partner. Baxter Marr, son of Alexander and Keziah E. (Trafton) Marr, was born in 1826, at Georgetown, Me. He was engaged in the fish busi ness in his native town until 1862, when he went to Lewiston, where he was eight years in mercantile trade, after which he was in busi ness in various places until 1888, when he came to Gardiner and built his residence on Highland avenue, which was burned in 1891. He married Emily D., daughter of James Potter. They have one daugh ter, Lena L. (Mrs. Fred Littlefield). Henry E. Merriam was born in Grafton, Mass., in 1838, where his father, Joseph, and his grandfather, Joseph, were both farmers. Joseph Merriam, jun., married Mary C. Warren, of Grafto'n, a sister of S. D. Warren, the paper manufacturer. Henry E., their youngest child, left home in 1857 and went into a dry goods store in Boston. In 1861 he enlisted for nine months and went to New Berne, N. C, and served under General Foster; then returned home, and in the fall of 1863 came to Gardiner, where he has been, with the exception of two years, the agent of S. D. Warren & Co.'s Copsecook paper mill. In 1868 he married Octave A., daughter of Caleb Hunt, of Chelsea. Stephen T. Merrill, son of Franklin B. Merrill, was born in Lewis- ton in 1833. He was a farmer and carpenter in West Gardiner until 1874, since which time he has been superintendent of the Gardiner farm at the Oaklands. He married Harriet Augusta, daughter of James Hodgkins. They have two children: Solon W. and Annie L. Fred E. Milliken, postmaster, is the grandson of Allison and Jane (Libby) Milliken, of Scarboro, Me., who came to Gardiner in 1833, and raised a family of nine children. Their son, William, married Mary Ann Lyon, by whom he had two children: Fred E., born in 1850, and Fanny E. In 1858 Mr. Milliken engaged in his present business, and is the oldest boot and shoe dealer in the city. Fred E. was educated in the public schools of Gardiner, and became, and still is, a partner with his father in the shoe business. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 653 Arch Morrell and his Descendants.— John Morrell, the com mon ancestor of most of the Morrills and Morrells in Kennebec county, received from the town of Kittery two grants of land in 1668. These lands, together with a third adjacent grant, made in 1669, were bounded in part by Birch Point brook. Nicholas Hodgdon, whose lands were south of these, deeded in 1674 to John Morrell, who had married his daughter Sarah, seven acres of adjoining land, upon which Morrell had erected buildings and where he had then resided for some years. In 1676 John traded all of these lands with Abraham Conley * for a farm at " Coole Harbor," and subsequently bought other tracts and became a large landed proprietor. His dates— birth, marriage and death— have not been preserved and our knowledge of his antecedents is purely negative. He may have been a son of Abra ham Morrell, who came from England to Cambridge in 1632, but is not mentioned as such in Savage's Genealogical Dictionary of the Found ers of Netu England. He may have come direct from England as did many of the early settlers of Kittery and Portsmouth. Whether he married Sarah Hodgdon before settling in Kittery is uncertain, but from the first he was prominent in its town affairs, often in town office and on the jury of inquest. He was a mason by trade, and in deeds of conveyance was variously called " bricklayer," " mason " and "plasterer." Dr. William B. Lapham, of Augusta, the genealogist and historian, records for him children: Nicholas, who married in 1695 Sarah Frye, of Kittery; Sarah, who married August 4, 1701, George Huntress; John;2 Edah, married April 27, 1702, Jonathan Na son; Hannah, who married John Tidy, and Abraham, f Of these, John Morrell2 was born in 1675, and married, December 16, 1701, Hannah, daughter of Peter Dixon, of Kittery, whence the name Peter first came into the family. He was a planter and owned large estates, including areas of Kittery Commons, now North Ber wick. His will, dated 1756, was proved May 16, 1763, making his widow Hannah sole executrix. This will names as his children: John, born July 30, 1702; Peter, September 16, 1709; Jedediah,3 Keziah and Mary. His sons, Thomas, born August 20, 1705, and Richard, born September 23, 1713, are not mentioned in the will. His lands in Kit tery and Berwick were bequeathed to his three sons, John, Peter and Jedediah, after providing for his widow and daughter. He beqeathed his negro Joe to his wife during her life time, then to the son whom Joe should select as his master. His negro Tobey was given his free dom after twenty-four years of age, but should serve the widow while she lived. These two slaves were buried side by side on the Morrell homestead at North Berwick. * See York Deeds, t Abraham Morrell, called "blacksmith," was of Kit tery in 1711, when his father deeded him three acres of land, and nothing later is known of him. 654 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Jedediah Morrell,3 born August 29, 1711, was thrice married; first, December 5, 1734, to Elizabeth, daughter of Ronald Jenkins, of Kit tery; in 1737 to Anna Dow, of Hampton, N. H., and January 28, 1762, to Sarah Gould. His first marriage was in the manner of the Friends, the certificate of which — a quaint and instructive document belonging now to Morrill Sherbourne, of North Berwick— bears the signatures of five Morrells among the witnesses, and they each spelled the family name with an " e." Jedediah's three sons by his second marriage were: Abraham,4 born December 26, 1738, married first Elizabeth Lewis, and second Hannah Nichols; Josiah," who married Hannah Webber; and Winthrop," born December 20, 1744, married Susannah Lewis. Jedediah's third wife bore two children: John," who married Sarah Varney in 1787 and died in 1789; and Peace, named only in her father's will. Jedediah Morrell3 spent his early married life in Kittery, where is recorded the birth of his first child. He received by deed from his father, John, lands in North Berwick now owned in part by his de scendant, Morrill Sherbourne,' and built, four miles from North Ber wick village, at the mouth of Bonny Beag pond, mills near where his great-grandson still resides. He practiced with herbs the healing art, and while operating as farmer, lumberman and trader, he was also well known as Doctor Morrell. as the curious account book he kept still shows. His will, made March 18, 1775, was proved the following year. It bequeathed one-third of his real estate to his wife, Sarah, during her widowhood, and gave lands and mill property at Doughty's falls and at Bonny Beag pond to his sons, Abraham and Josiah. To Winthrop he gave a farm, his " largest fowling piece and my Silver Watch;" while John was to have the " small fowling piece " and the '• great pasture " when he was twenty-one. To his daughter, Peace, he gave his household goods at the death of his wife, Sarah, wrho was sole executrix of the will. His son, Abraham, occupied the lands be queathed to him until his death and was succeeded by his son, Nahum. Winthrop operated the mill at Bonny Beag pond when he died, pass ing the property to his son, Ephraim. Peter Morrell, brother and neighbor of Jedediah,3 was father of the Sarah Morrell who was killed and scalped by Indians within the limits of North Berwick village. We have thus particularly sketched the first three generations of this old family to rescue from oblivion a few of those threads not com monly within the knowledge or the written records of the present generations. Josiah Morrell4 married Hannah Webber October 25, 1764, and had one or more daughters and three sons: Ebenezer, Aaron and Josiah, and perhaps others. His wife probably died before 1797 for in that year, without her joining in the deed, he sold the lands he had inherited from his father, the blacksmith shop and tools and " all THE CITY OF GARDINER. 655 the movables both indoor and out " to his son, Josiah6. He died in Litchfield, at the residence of his grandson, Hiram Morrell", and was buried in the graveyard at Litchfield Corner, where his grave stone says he died September 18, 1832, aged 95 years. When they came to Litchfield in 1824 Josiah6 was the head of the family and the man of affairs. He was born at North Berwick, Sep tember 22, 1775, and on April 9, 1798 — the year after his father deeded him the homestead — he married Sarah Quint, of Berwick, who was four years his junior. They sold out there in January. 1825, to Nathaniel Walker, and on June 13, 1825, purchased of William Rob inson a farm in Litchfield where Job F. Morrell now lives. They sub sequently resided with their son, Hiram, but when their younger son, Ebenezer, bought the Isaac Shurtleff farm, north of Barnabas Springer's, they made their home there until Josiah 's death, December 29, 1852*. His widow, after living alone for several years, resided until her death, November 23, 1868, with her daughter, Mrs. Barnabas Springer. The five children of Josiah and Sarah Q. Morrell were born at the ancestral home in North Berwick, and excepting the oldest son, Arch, who was previously married, came with them to Litchfield, where they all became heads of substantial families, as noticed in the four suc ceeding paragraphs. Hiram Morrell6, a blacksmith and farmer, was born September 22, 1802, and in 1830 married Eleanor Springer, of Litchfield, and had ten children. He died at Litchfield, January 30, 1885. Sarah Jane Morrell6, born February 13, 1804, married Barnabas Springer, of Litchfield, and had one son and died March 9, 1874. Mr. Springer was one of the original abolitionists, and in that movement and in other reforms of his time was a substantial power for good. He died August 17, 1880. Barnabas Springer, an early settler of Litchfield, who was killed while felling a tree, was his father. Ebenezer Morrell6, born March 27, 1808, married Elizabeth Smith Rogers, of Litchfield, in 1835. She had six children and died in San Francisco March 16, 1856. He was one of the early pioneers of Cali fornia, and now resides in Gilroy, Cal, Rev. Alexander Hatch Morrell6 was born October 10, 1818. He was general manager of Storer College, Harpers Ferry, Va., and died at Irvington, N. J., in 1885. His wife, Eliza, was daughter of Thomas B. Seavey. They had three children. It is not our purpose in this chapter to trace farther these four younger children of Josiah and Sarah (Quint) Morrell and their nu merous descendants, but to notice somewhat the oldest son, Arch Mor rell6, whose business career forms no inconsiderable factor in the local history of this city. We have noticed his marriage while his parents still resided at North Berwick. Probably he never resided in Litch field, where the others of his father's family were. *His grave stone at Litchfield Corner says 1853, but the stone is wrong. 656 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. He was born April 10, 1800, and with an independent spirit which he probably inherited and which he certainly has transmitted, he started out to find a place for himself in the world. With five dollars in his pocket, he walked from South Berwick to Salem, Mass.— seventy miles— making fifty of the miles in twelve hours, and finally found employment in a brick yard at ten dollars per month, and after six months' work there returned home with $62.50. His first employer, a Mr. Gardiner, had a milk farm, and young Arch had sixteen cows to milk for his morning and evening diversion. Brick making, as then done by hand, was very laborious, but he learned the business, and in later life this knowledge served him a purpose. He went with the Salem Light Infantry to the reception of General La Fayette in Boston, in August, 1824, and was always proud of having done so. He was married in 1822, to Statira Andrews, who was born in Essex, Mass., December 3, 1797. Working a few summers at brickmaking for Mr. Stone in Salem, he came in 1827 to Gardiner, where David Flagg and Jesse Lambard were brick makers of that day, and with them Mr. Morrell found em ployment until he went into business for himself. His son, Henry A. Morrell, of Pittsfield, in a series of articles on brick making, written while his father was living, said: " My father did this same business for more than fifty years in succession, but the excessive labor has not brought him to an untimely grave — not yet, and he is eighty-five years old, and he brought up his three boys to the same trade; the one for sook it and for thirty years has been an editor and publisher; but the other two have, with short alternations as lumbermen, printers and merchants, settled down to the old business." In 1840, when there were more than a dozen brick yards in Gardi ner, Arch Morrell and Randall Robinson were in company and made the bricks for the city hall. Arch and his brother, Ebenezer Morrell, made the bricks for Colonel Stone's building, corner Brunswick and Water streets. In 1858 he and his son, H. K. Morrell, made the bricks for the Gardiner Gas Works. In 1845 Arch Morrell made the bricks for the Holmes & Robbins foundry, and in 1846 for their machine shop— in fact he made fully seven-eighths of all the brick used in Gardiner prior to his death. He first lived in a house where now stands the Freewill Baptist church, on Summer street, and here his son, Hiram Kelly, was born; but his most permanent home in Gardiner was at the foot of Sprino- street, where Michael Hickey's house now stands; until he, in 1837, built a house on the lot now occupied by his grandson, Herbert A. Harriman, on Spring street, and lived in it until it was destroyed in the great fire of August 4, 1882. He and his wife then boarded until their deaths with George W. Viney, and were kindly cared for by Mrs. Viney, who had been an intimate friend of theirs from her childhood. Mrs. Morrell died February 28, 1883, and Mr. Morrell February 15, 1885, each having attained the age of 85 years. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 657 Arch Morrell lived in a time when rum drinking was less depre cated than now and though he sometimes drank he was not a drunk ard. Before the Washingtonian movement, however, he became con verted and joined the Freewill Baptist church, and ever after was a thorough going temperance man. He was a kind hearted, gentle, loving man. His children all say they never heard him use a cross word, and he was liberal to a fault. He never accumulated property to any amount. His father, once when asked by a grandson; " Did you ever know a rich Morrell?" re plied: " No; they always had too much company." Arch Morrell was no exception. His house was always a free hotel, for every minister, temperance or abolitionist lecturer, any man who ever worked for him — in fact for ever}' countryman who came to haul him wood, buy bricks or for any other purpose. There were no restaurants in those days, and if there had been it would probably have been the same, for his latch string was always on the outside. This is no poetical figure, for in the old house where he first lived in Gardiner, there was actually a wooden latch and a leather latch string. The same old house had un hurried bricks in the chimney and white oak beams six by eight in the garret, and pine timber as much as fifteen inches square in the second floor. He was careless about collecting and literally followed the injunc tion: " Give to him that asketh of thee, and of him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away." He trusted anybody, and they paid him, or let it alone, as best pleased them: and he often lost by signing notes for others. All the treasures he ever laid up were those laid up in heaven; and none of his children ever complained that he left no others. His good name is a better inheritance to them than great riches. " Full many a poor man's blessing went With him beneath the low green tent, "Whose curtain never outward swings." His ancestors were Quakers, and the peaceful instincts of that sect always actuated him. His heart was as soft as a woman's, and every one's sorrows were made his own. He never held office except as a councilman, and as surveyor of brick and wood, and never wanted any; for he shrank from publicity. Physically he was a model man. Few men could do more work in a day, and still fewer could work more days and nights in succession. He and his brother, Ebenezer Morrell, once made 40,000 bricks in six days and put as many more in the kiln — a good week's work for four men. Not only morally but literally " his works live after him," for the fabrics of his make will last while the world stands. They were char acteristic of the man — solid, durable and useful rather than gaudy and 658 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. attractive. He did no great deeds, though he was capable of it, if circumstances demanded, and he did no mean nor ignoble one. He and his wife sleep in Oak Grove Cemetery, where some of their grandchildren sleep beside them. His first born son lies in the High street burying ground, but his six other children are all living. These six children of Arch and Statira (Andrews) Morrell, repre senting the seventh generation from John of Kittery, are: Mary Jane,. born in Salem June 30, 1823; Hiram Kelly, born in Gardiner Septem ber 25, 1827; Henry Albert, born January 23, 1830; Elizabeth An drews, born April 26, 1833; William, born January 4, 1836; and Eleanor Ellen Morrell, born January 20, 1839. Mary J.7 married Andrew Jack Harriman in 1843. Their children, all born in Gardiner, are: George A., December 4, 1844; Francis W., February 9, 1846, died November 13, 1863; Helen and Frederick, who died in infancy; Herbert A., November 27, 1850; Ida Florence, August 24, 1852; Alice Marion.October 21, 1853, died September 23,1889; Walter C, October 31, 1855; Willis E. and Arthur, died young; CharlesW., April 24, 1861; Edward L., May 14, 1863; and Bertha Mabel, October 9, 1866. Hiram K.' married Lucinda P. Hinkley, daughter of Alanson and Salome (Hinds) Hinkley, who died in 1861. Their children were: Ernest W. Morrell,8 editor of the Home Journal, who was born Decem ber 3, 1851, married Abigail Whitcomb and has four children — Edith Whitcomb," Benjamin Dodge, Henry Arch and Florence; Dora May, a successful teacher, author and editor, born May 19, 1855; Florence A., born in 1857, died in 1864; and Charles A., born May 27, 1861. H. K. Morrell's second marriage was with Asenath Washburn Haskell, who died June 15, 1889, leaving one daughter, Lute Blanche, born August 16, 1866, who in October, 1887, married George Dexter Libby, of Gardiner, and has one daughter, Blanche Asenath Libby. Henry Albert Morrell7 is a brick maker at Pittsfield. He is a man of good literary attainments, well known by his nom de plume " Juni per." His first wife was Sarah Jane Springer, of Gardiner, his second wife Marada Jane Mills. Each had three children: Fonetta Augusta (Mrs. Charles O. Morrell); Mary Everett, who died young; Nellie F. (Mrs. Nathaniel L. Perkins); Clarence Henry, Effie and Ethel Belle Morrell.11 Elizabeth A. Morrell7 married William Henry Wrenn, now fore man in the Waltham watch factory, and has had no children. William Morrell7, the brick maker of Gardiner, learned the printer's trade at thirteen years of age and for twenty years worked at it win ters. In 1869 he married Mary O. Ring, of Gardiner, daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Goodridge) Ring, and had one son, Harry Mellen Morrell,6 who was born February 9, 1869, and died April 25, 1881. Eleanor Ellen Morrell7 married in 1862 Lorenzo Noble, now a fore man in the Waltham watch factory. Their children are: Annie F. Burton Andrews and Arch Edward. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 659 William H. and Gustavus Moore are the sons of John Moore, who was born in Vassalboro in 1796, one of thirteen children, and came to Gardiner in 1811 and learned the millwright trade of his brother, Ebenezer Moore. He married in 1826, Charity, daughter of Ichabod Plaisted. Of their eight children five were boys, four of whom — John S., William H., George R. and Gustavus— enlisted and fought in the war of the rebellion. George R. died in the hospital at Vicksburgh. The other three came home, William H. with a bullet wound through his right lung that disabled him for over a year. John S. was sent to the legislature in 1864, and the next year went West and died at Des Moines, la. William H. became a manufacturer, and married in 1873, Luella J. Wakefield. They have one child, George Roscoe. Gustavus engaged in the hardware business and. for two years has been superintendent of the Gardiner Water Company. He was commissioned lieutenant, was several years president of common council, and was in the legislatures of 1885 and 1887. In 1867 he mar ried Adelaide Wiley, of Pittston. Their children are: Gustavus E., E. Mabel, Mary I. and Pearl. Horace K. Newbert, the fourth of the six sons of Andrew and Lydia (Clark) Newbert, and grandson of Philip Newbert. whose father came from Germany and settled in Waldoboro, Me., was born in Washington, Me., in 1836. Horace married Elmira A. Lukeforth, of Washington. The older of their two sons, Fred S., is now in busi ness with his father in Gardiner. Willie A. died young. For his second wife Mr. Newbert married Lucy M. Brown, of Gardiner. In 1866 he brought his family to Pittston, and was a commercial traveler for over twenty years. From 1875 to 1878 he had a boot and shoe store in Gardiner: soon after he became for five years a manufacturer of boots and shoes in Biddeford, Me. He bought of Frank Cox in 1889, the boot and shoe business in which he is now engaged in Gardiner. Joseph E. Newell, son of George and Lydia (Edgcomb) Newell, was born in West Gardiner in 1844. He has been a paper maker by trade. He married Martha T., daughter of Elbridge and Sabrina (Smith) Hooker. They have one daughter, Laura A. Mr. Hooker was for several years a paper maker at Gardiner, and his home was where Mr. Newell now lives. Appleton D. Nickerson, son of Daniel N. and Louisa (Gilbert) Nickerson, was born in Litchfield in 1826, the youngest of seven chil dren. In 1855 he came to Gardiner and engaged in the grain, seed and grocery business, firm of Bartlett, Barstow & Co. In 1869 the firm name was changed to Barstow & Nickerson. This is the oldest grocery house in the city. In 1857 Mr. Nickerson married Clara H. Barstow, and their only child, Carrie L., is now Mrs. Ben W. Part ridge, of Gardiner. 660 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Fred M. Noyes is a son of Manthano Noyes, who was born in Brunswick, Me., one of the older of nine children, and married Lydia Stewart, of China, by whom he had twelve children. He came with his family to Gardiner, where he died in 1876— seventy years old. His son Fred M., the tenth child, was born in 1848, and became a drug gist, which has been his business in Gardiner for the past twenty-five years. He married in 1889, Sarah J., daughter of Dexter Whitmore. Daniel C. Palmer is the son of Elisha Palmer, of Hallowell, for merly of Alna, Me., whose father, Simon Palmer, was a revolutionary soldier from New Hampshire. Elisha married Mary Perkins, of Alna, where Daniel C, the eldest of their seven children, was born in 1820. In 1846 he came to Gardiner and worked at his trade as millwright. He has been a surveyor of lumber over thirty years, and since 1S63 clerk of the Kennebec Log Driving Company. Besides holding almost every minor city office, Mr. Palmer was elected mayor of Gar diner in 1873, and was reelected four times, serving his last term in 1880. He was also a member of the last state board of valuation. Mr. Palmer's first wife was Elizabeth J. Hanscon, of Hartland. Their children were: Georgie A., Frederick and Mary E., now Mrs. Albion G. Bradstreet, of Brooklyn, N. Y. His second wife was Ellen, daugh ter of James B. Sawyer, of Gardiner. Millard F. Payne is a direct descendant from Thomas Payne, who came with his father, Thomas, from England to Eastham, Mass., and married Mary Snow about 1652. Their son, Samuel, married Pa tience Freeman, whose son, Joshua, had a son, Timothy D., who moved from Eastham to Waldoboro, Me. His son, Samuel Payne, of Richmond, was the father of Samuel Payne, of Litchfield, who mar ried Ellen M. Jack. Of their six children Millard F., the only boy, was born in 1854 and in 1881 married Belle Gould, of Gardiner. Their children are: Harold Gould and Catharine Bartlett. Captain Joseph Perry, a retired machinist of Gardiner, son of Joseph M. and grandson of Jonathan Perry, of Scituate, Mass., who later lived in Topsham, Me., was born in Topsham May 4, 1811. He married Olive Gilpatrick, who died leaving children: Clara E. (Mrs. Flarry A. Leslie) and Anna J. The captain's second wife was Mrs. Ann M. (Felker) Peterson, of Wiscasset, Me., who left one son Fred A. Perry. Captain Perry's military title comes from the bloodless fields of the Aroostook war, where he commanded the Kennebec guards. Robert Pope, of Gardiner, flour and commission merchant, son of Robert Pope, of Hallowell, is the grandson of Joseph Pope, who was born in Boston in 1750, and was a watchmaker; he constructed an orrery of such merit that Governor Bowdoin, John Hancock and others procured an act of the legislature granting the right to raise five hundred pounds by lottery to buy the astronomical curiosity for THE CITY OF GARDINER. 661 Harvard College, which was done, and the college still preserves it. Joseph Pope received .£450 3s. for this instrument. Mr. Pope has now in his house a clock with thirty-one hands, indicating the time in twenty-four different longitudes, the places of the sun in the zodiac and the phases of the moon, made by Joseph Pope, who came to Hal lowell in 1818 and died there in 1826. Robert Pope was also a watch maker. He married Julia C, daughter of James Wingate, postmaster at Portland, Me. Robert, jun., was born in 1835, went to school in Hallowell Academy, came to Gardiner and became a machinist. He married Julia A. Ellis, of Medfield, Mass. Their children are: Robert W., associated with his father in business, and Seth E., the latter now in Bowdoin College. Amos H. Potter, born in 1836, is the only surviving son of Amos and Hannah (Clark) Potter, of " Pottertown," Litchfield. He married Adelia E., daughter of Lewis Gowell, of Litchfield, in 1861, and came to Gardiner in 1868. Their children are: Alphonzo H., Frederick E. and George E., all living in Gardiner. Maxcy Brothers, in 1878, started a coal business on Berry's wharf, which two years later they sold to the Citizens' Coal Company. In 1885 Amos H. Potter bought the entire interests of this stock concern, and added the coal trade to a wood business that he had been doing for some years. At the same time, for the purpose of getting deeper water, he changed from Berry's to Atkins' wharf, which used to be called the old Gay wharf. William G Preble, merchant and undertaker, is the son of A. F. Preble and the grandson of Abraham Preble, both of Bowdoinham. The latter, besides being a farmer, was a school teacher, going as far from home as Brooklyn, N. Y., where he taught several terms. He was born in 1800 and lived on the home farm to be eighty years old. A. F. Preble, who was one of nine children, married Almira, daughter of James W. Grant, of Richmond, Me. Of their four children, Wil liam G., the only boy, was born in 1853, and came with his widowed mother to Gardiner in 1863, where at the age of twelve he went to work for Uriah Morrison at cabinet making. In 1882 he bought of James Nash the premises he now occupies, and three years later an adjoining house and lot to make room for the wants of his furniture, carpet and crockery business. In 1887 he married Alice, daughter of William C- Keene, of Pittston. They have one child, Ethel. Albert A. Robbins, the machinist, is the only surviving son of Charles A. Robbins, who was born in Winthrop in 1807 and died in Gardiner in 1884. Charles A. came to Gardiner in 1825, and was one of the firm of P. C. Holmes & Co. until 1861. After eight years in Bangor he, with his two sons, E. Everett and Albert A., formed the firm of C. A. Robbins & Sons. Since the death of Everett, in 1892, the business continues under Albert A., only surviving member. 662 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Edward Robinson, born in Alna, Me., in 1818, was a ship carpenter when a young man, and was several years in business in Boston and New York prior to 1850, when he returned to Alna, where he was en gaged in the lumber business and other mercantile trade until 1870, when he came to Gardiner, where he now lives. He was first select man seventeen years, representative from Alna one term, and has held various city offices in Gardiner. He married Mary E., daughter of Edward and Mary (Woodbridge) Palmer. Their children are: H. Dean, Herman E. and Edwin A. Greenleaf S. Rogers, son of Levi Rogers, of Vassalboro, is in the sixth generation from Thomas Rogers, who in 1657 planted in Saco probably the first orchard in Maine. Old Orchard Beach was named after it. Levi Rogers married Phebe Clark, of China. Greenleaf, born in 1812, was the oldest of their seven children. Levi went to Augusta in 1827, and kept the Spencer House, then a house that stood just north of the present Allen Block; next the Mansion House; and lastly the Augusta House, where he died. Greenleaf T. Rogers mar ried Sarah B., daughter of Elkanah McLellan, of Gardiner. Their children have been Ellen and George L. Greenleaf came to Gardiner in 1837 and kept the Cobbossee House eight" years, and from 1856 to 1889 was the senior member of the jewelry firm of G. S. & G. L. Rogers. Henry R. Sawyer is the son of Ezekiel Sawyer, who was born in Portland, Me., in 1798, and the grandson of Isaac Sawyer, who was born in England. Ezekiel came to Gardiner in 1819, and was in the employ of R. H. Gardiner for twenty years, investing all his earnings in real estate, till he became one of the largest landholders in town. He and Rufus K. Page were pioneers in the ice business on the Ken nebec. He married Sarah Atkins, by whom he had five children. Henry R. and his sister, Mrs. Mary A. Moore, both live in South Gardiner, where Henry R. was born in 1833. He attended the Hobart High School at Richmond and the Gardiner Academy. He married Philena W. S. Hathorn. Their children are: Ida L., Hattie C, Ezekiel J., Harry H. and Jeff S. Mr. Sawyer has been a dealer in wood, hay and ice, a merchant, a contractor, and an operator in real estate, active and successful. Benjamin S. Smith, second son of Amasa and Eliza M. (Steward) Smith, of Moscow, Me., and grandson of Samuel Smith, of Litchfield, was born in Moscow in 1846. The next year they moved to Gardiner. In 1864 Benjamin S. enlisted in Stevens' Battery, 5th Maine, and fought under Grant and then under " Phil " Sheridan. On his return home he learned the cabinet maker's trade, and five years later began work in the door, sash and blind business. He has been eno-ao-ed in this business for himself for the past nine years. January 2, 1868 he married Martha, daughter of Dow Clark, of Gardiner. THE CITY OF GARDINER. 663 John D. Stephenson in 1879 bought the school house on Winter street and remodeled it and started a grocery business in the same room where he received his primary education, and has continued the business in the building since that time. Later he bought the inter mediate school house lot on Highland avenue, where he built a sub stantial residence. Now both his place of business and his home are on the ground where he received much of the school training that fitted him for his present success. Charles Swift, youngest of four children of Lemuel Swift, of Cape Cod, who came to Brunswick, Me., in 1790, and married Sarah Lufkin, -of Freeport, was born in 1818, and came to Gardiner in 1845. He married Sarah Jane Rockwood, of Augusta, in 1847, and had two chil dren: Mary H. and Charles F. Swift, now of Gardiner. Mr. Swift was a jeweler, which trade he followed twelve years, and about 1860 con ceived and executed the plan of making a line of boxes adapted to jewelers' and druggists' uses, and successfully carried on the business for over twenty years. Freeman Trott.— A man's life is largely an exhibition of the re sults that follow an adherence to certain lines of action. While exact shades of character are difficult to define or depict, individual acts have a trend toward well defined objects, and in obedience to, or in disobedience of, established precepts and principles. These reflections are suggested by a brief review of the life of Freeman Trott, who for over fifty years was a conspicuous and well known citizen and business man of Gardiner. A glimpse at a man's ancestry throws wonderful light on his intellectual and moral features. In this man's case weare fortunately able to turn back six leaves in the book of his family genealogy — each leaf a generation. Thomas Trott, the ancestor, came from England to Dorchester, Mass., in 1635, where he turned his attention to farming. Nine years later he joined the church, which act, by virtue of the peculiar civil and ecclesiastical polity of the Puritans, gave him the right to vote, and invested him with all the privileges of full citizenship — that ex alted condition being then expressed by the noble term, freeman. That same year he became an actor and a partner in the greatest event in life — he married Sarah Proctor. Any one of these acts would indicate a laudable effort to get on in the world, but to compass them all in one year must be accepted as evidence of substantial progress. We know there was then a searching ordeal through which a candidate must pass before the gateway to church membership was thrown open. The balance of our acquaintance with Thomas Trott is that he raised a son Samuel, and died in Dorchester at the age of eighty-six, leaving a good farm and what was then called a large estate. Samuel, who was born in 1660, married Mary Beal, and they had two boys: Benjamin, born in 1712, who married Joanna Payson, of 664 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Roxbury, and his brother, name not given, who married Waitstill Payson. The Paysonsseem to have enjoyed a reputation for superior intellectual attainments which justifies the presumption that the win ners of these daughters were young men of good parts. By a request in his father's will, Benjamin learned a trade, and was a blacksmith in Boston, where he owned a house. About 1744 he moved to Wool wich, Me., with his wife and three sons, Lemuel, Thomas and Ben jamin. Lemuel married the daughter of Colonel Thomas Motherell. His father and mother, Benjamin and Joanna, are buried in the old South burying ground at Nequasset. Lemuel left a son, Lemuel, who married Fanny Reed. They had four sons: Lemuel, Converse, Free man and Alfred. Freeman, the subject of this sketch, was born at Woolwich in Jan uary, 1810. His father died when about forty years old, leaving a widow in the responsible and difficult position of looking after the education and guidance of her sons. This task she performed with a mother's love and wisdom. Freeman was educated at Kents Hill, teaching school winters. He came to Gardiner about 1836, and ob tained a place in the post office under Judge Palmer. In 1840, at the age of thirty, he took up the business of h#s choice, that of a grocery merchant. Locating on Water street, in Gardiner, he gave his time, his energies and a mature judgment to the work that was to engross the activities of a long life. For the next forty-five years, until his death, May 9, 1885, although the store was rebuilt, the site remained the same. His career was prosperous and profitable, for it was char acterized by honesty and fair dealing. Successful management of personal affairs is sure of public appre ciation. When the city of Gardiner was incorporated in 1850, Mr. Trott was chosen its first treasurer, and served two years. He also served as a member of the city council, and was a director in the Cob- bossee National Bank. He was a supporter of the Methodist church in Gardiner, of which he was for years a trustee. Lemuel Trott, a brother of his, was a clergyman in 'the Methodist denomination. December 17, 1844, Freeman Trott married Julia S., daughter of Nathaniel and Julia (Springer) Kenniston. Of the two children of Freeman and Julia Trott, the elder, Charles F., who was born in 1845, and died in 1877 at Gardiner, was fond of the sea and became first mate of a vessel that was lost during an earthquake at St. Thomas in 1877. The other child, Lizzie J., is Mrs. O. B. Clason of Gardiner, and has four children: Julia T., Bertha S., Freeman P. and Charles R. Clason. Isaac G. Vannah, the ninth of eleven children, whose parents were Henry and Betsey (Keene) Vannah, of Nobleboro, Me., was born in 1823. He came to Gardiner in 1846 and engaged in the hardware trade in 1848 on Bridge street. After two or three changes of loca- <7Vrt^n«^0- J^tr^O' PHINT, E. BIEH8TADT, THE CITY OF GARDINER. 665 tion he bought, in 1863, the block he still occupies, and next to Amasa Ring has been continuously in business the longest of any man on Water street. A curious and significant fact in the hardware trade is this: when Mr. Vannah began the only tool he sold of American manufacture was one kind of plane irons, and it now happens that every article he sells is made in this country except one English make of the same article — plane irons. Isaac G. Vannah, in 1849, married Eliza C. Rafter, of Jefferson, Me. They have one child, Letetia Kate. Charles O. Wadsworth, born in 1839 in Gardiner, is a son of Moses S. and grandson of the Quaker preacher, Moses Wadsworth, of West Gardiner. He enlisted in 1862 and lost a leg in front of Petersburg. After the war he was salesman and bookkeeper at times, and in 1878 was elected city clerk and librarian of the public library of Gardiner, and was commissioned justice of the peace the same year, which posi tions he has since continuously held. He married Angie M. Baldwin, of New Hampshire, and has two children: Mildred B. and Frank C. Captain James Walker, born in 1834, is the grandson of Captain Lemuel Walker, a seafaring man born in Kennebunkport, Me., and the son of Joshua Walker 2d, the youngest of twelve children, who was born in Litchfield, and Married Hannah S., daughter of Jeremiah Potter, of Litchfield, and moved to Richmond, Me., in 1850. James enlisted from Aroostook county in Company E, 15th Maine, served under General Butler, was at New Orleans and in the Red River cam paign, and then under General Sheridan in the Shenandoah valley. He came home at the close of the war and married Julia, daughter of Annis Douglas, of Gardiner. They have two children: Charles F. and Clara E. Hon. Charles A. White is the son of Eben White, who came from Winthrop to Hallowell. where he was for years senior member in the grocery firm of White & Warren, and whose father was Major Benja min White — war of 1812. Eben White brought his family to Gardiner in 1829, being then in government employ under General Jackson. Charles A. White, born in 1828 in Hallowell, was appointed postmaster at Gardiner under President Pierce in 1855 and reappointed under Buchanan; was state treasurer in 1878 and 1879; was again postmaster in Gardiner under Grover Cleveland, and has served in both branches of the city government. In 1860 he married Elizabeth R., daughter of Hon. Thomas Robinson, of Ellsworth, Me. Their children are: Mary D., now Mrs. Doctor Dike, of Melrose, Mass.; Bessie F., died 1865; and Charles R., Harry Eben and Anna E., of Gardiner. Captain Franklin D. Whitmore is the son of William and Phebe (Hayden) Whitmore, of Arrowsic, Me., where he was born in 1839. His father was a teacher and afterward a Congregational minister. Captain Whitmore has followed the sea since the age of seventeen, 43 666 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. becoming master of the Mary Russell in 1870. He has commanded several ships, all engaged in the California trade. His present, vessel is the Berlin, of which he is part owner. He came to Gardiner in 1869, and in 1871 married Mary N., daughter of Judge Palmer, of Gardiner. Their children are: Mary L., Frank H. and Morton P- Fred W. Willey was born in Litchfield, Me., June 19, 1857. When six years of age his parents moved to South Gardiner, Me., where he has since resided. He received his education in the city schools of Gardiner and the Commercial College of Augusta, of which he was a graduate. The most of his life has been spent in the lumber busi ness; in the woods in winter and in the lumber yard in summer as surveyor. He was married to Fannie Foster Crocker, of Machias, Me., June 3, 1885. One son is the fruit of their union. His father, J. O. Willey, was born January 8, 1821, in Durham, N. H., married Mary H. Johnson, of Gardiner, Me., and had three children: Ida M., Fred W. and Abbie P. Willey. His father was a connection of the Willey family that was buried in the slide of the White mountains. Robert Williamson wTas born in Chesterfield count}'', Va., in 1803, and in 1829, with his wife, Mary Hunt, of Boston, came to Gardiner, where they raised their family and where, until his death in 1874, he was successfully engaged in the clothing business. Their surviving children are: Mary E. (Mrs. John D. Lovett, of Boston) and Virginia Williamson, of Gardiner. Albion E. Wing, son of Leonard Wing, of Wayne, and grandson of Allen Wing, who came from Cape Cod, was born in 1822. Leonard Wing married Betsey Ellis, of Wayne, by whom he had six boys and three girls, Albion E. being the fourth. The latter came to Gardiner in 1843 and married Mary Jane, daughter of Joshua Burgess, in 1846. Their only child is Mrs. Augustus W. McCausland. Mr. Wing was a self-taught mechanic and turned his attention to wagon making when he first came to Gardiner, working for William H. Lord as a journey man. After a partnership in the same business with J. D. Gardiner of some six years, he built a shop on Church street, now a marble shop, where he manufactured carriages and sleighs for nearly forty years, and then sold the business to J. B. Libby. Mr. Wing has been member of the city council and president of that body, also assessor and overseer of the poor. Philip H. Winslow" descended from Kenelin Winslow1, who was born in Drotwich, Eng., in 1599, and came to Salem, Mass., the line of descent being: Nathaniel2, Gilbert3, Barnabas4, Barnabas', Philip6, whose wife was a Rideout; Philip7, who, born in New Gloucester in 1818 — the third of nine children — came to Gardiner in 1841, married Emily Hawks, of Windham, Me., in 1842, had a family of three boys and two girls, and died in 1888. Philip H. Winslow6, born in 1852, was the youngest of the three boys, only two of whom and one girl THE CITY OF GARDINER. 667 are living. He married Luella A., daughter of Harvey Scribner, of Gardiner, in 1873. They have one child, Harvey Philip. Mr. Wins low has been in the grocery trade at Gardiner twenty-one years, making his the oldest grocery house but two in this city. Frank C. Wise, born in Canton, 1858, is the son of George W. Wise, who was born in Hallowell, and whose father, Martin W. Wise, was also a Hallowell man. George W. removed from Hallowell to Auburn and thence to Canton. He was one of four children, and is probably the only one now living. His brother went to sea and was never heard from, and the two sisters are dead. George W. Wise married, first, Eleanor Keith, of Auburn, by whom he had two boys and one girl, and, second, Orvilla Rolfe, who bore him two sons. Frank C. Wise came from Norway, Me., to Gardiner, where he bought the clothing business of Bicknell & Neal, which he still follows. He married Mary E., daughter of Thomas Berry. Their children are Ellen M. and Hattie M. Captain Andrew T. Wyman, born in 1836, is the son of Percy and grandson of William Wyman, of Phippsburg, whose ancestors came from Scotland. Percy Wyman married Mary Tibbetts, of Woolwich. Captain Wyman married, in 1858, Emily F. Witherspoon (a great- granddaughter of John Witherspoon, born in Scotland, who was one of the signers of the declaration of independence), and has one child, Nellie. They came to Gardiner in 1870 and two years later he became captain of the steam tug J. T. Hoffman, which he ran for five years and then took command of the A. F. Kappclla, of which he is part owner. CHAPTER XXV. TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. Incorporation.— Civil Lists.— Settlers.— Map.— Collins Mills. — Business Enter prises. — Stores. — Post Offices.— Lodges.— Schools. — Churches. — Cemeteries. — Personal Paragraphs. THE territory which forms the town of West Gardiner formerly belonged to Gardiner and Litchfield. The larger portion of the town was within the old Gardinerston plantation, and thus be came in 1779 a part of the original Pittston, and was also included in the town of Gardiner, incorporated in 1803, and comprised the Seventh ward of Gardiner city in 1850. The part belonging to Gardiner was 10,400 acres, set off and incorporated as West Gardiner August 8, 1850, the parent city taking no active part in opposing the separation. In 1859 the northern part of Litchfield was annexed, thus somewhat increasing its area. The town lies west of the city of Gardiner and south of Augusta; and it is bounded in part, on the south and east, by the Cobbosseecontee, a considerable stream, which is fed by ponds in Mt. Vernon, Wayne and Winthrop, and flows into the Ken nebec within the limits of the city of Gardiner. On the northeast the town joins Gardiner, while on the north it joins Farmingdale and Manchester, and on the west Winthrop, the line passing through the east side of the great pond that lies between the towns. Litchfield lies south of the town, and is divided from it in part by the Cobbossee contee. Civil Lists. — The names and years of service of the selectmen of the town have been as follows: Aaron Haskell, 1850; Abram Milliken, 1850, '51; David Marston, 1850, died during the year, and Daniel Tail- man, filled the vacancy; Thaddeus Spear, 1851, '52, '55, '56, '57, '58; Dan iel Fuller, 1851, '59, '60, '61, '65; Samuel H. Parsons, 1852; Thomas M. Clark, 1852; Oliver S. Edwards, 1853, '54, '62; Eliakim Norton, 1853, '54, '59; Cyrus Brann, 1854; Hermon Stinson, 1855, '56, '57; Isaac Farr, 1855, '56; Noah Farr, 1857; Jefferson Brann, 1858; John Hodgkins, 1858; William Farr, 1859, '60, '61, '65; William H. Merrill, 1860, '6l', '62, '63, '64, '70; William Morse, 1862, '63, '64; Samuel P. Stinson! 1863, '64, resigned, succeeded by Alvin Merrill, 1864; Thomas H. Dow, 1865, '66; George W. Blanchard, 1866, '67; John W. Herrick, 1866, '67, '71, '72, '76; Phineas S. Hodgdon, 1867, '68, '69, '73, '74; David TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. 669 Tucker, 1868, '69, '74; Ezekiel Ware, 186S, '69; Elisha P. Seavey, 1870; Jacob Emerson, 1870; Eleazer C. Douglass, 1871, '72, '73, '79; Thomas H. Dow, 1871, '72; Daniel E. Merrill, 1873 to 1879 inclusive; Jerry H. Pinkham, 1875; Josiah W. Sprague, 1875; John A. Spear, 1876, '77, '78, 1880 to 1885 inclusive, and 1892; Elijah Farr, 1877 to 1883 inclusive; Nathan J. Knox, 1880 to 1883 inclusive; Alvin W. Brann, 1884 to 1891 inclusive; Samuel M. Pinkham, 1884; William P. Haskell, 1885 to 1888 inclusive; Hubbard Goldsmith, jun., 1886 to 1891 inclusive; John Pinkham, 1889 to 1892 inclusive; George E. Lancaster, 1892. Ong-iip&I • pUij • of ¦ The moderators of the annual town meetings, with the date of first election and number of times each has presided, are as follows: 1850, Daniel Fuller, 6; 1851, Samuel H. Parsons, 4; 1855, John Knox, 2; 1858, Moses T. Wadsworth, 4; 1866, Cyrus Brann, 8; 1871, Phineas S. Hodgdon; 1874, John W. Herrick, 2; 1877, Charles Hinkley; 1878, Eleazer C. Douglass; 1880, Samuel M. Pinkham to 1891, except Daniel W. Robinson in 1882; John A. Spear, 1892. The succession of treasurers, with the year of election, includes: Merrill Hunt, 1850; Cyrus Brann, 1852; Robert H. Douglass, 1855;- 670 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Cyrus Brann, 1857; J. L. Spear, 1859; Samuel P. Stinson, 1862; John Knox, 1864; William P. Haskell, 1865; Stephen Weston, 1868; George H. Pope, 1874; Alpheus Spear, 1880; George H. Pope, 1883; Stephen Weston, 1886; and Baxter M. Small, since 1889. The service of seven different men as town clerks covers the forty- two years of the town's history: Oliver S. Edward served until 1862, excepting 1858, when Lyman K. Littlefield was chosen; George D. Wakefield was elected in 1862 and 1863, and M. W. Farr in 1864; Wil liam P. Haskell's long period of uninterrupted service began in 1865. Settlers. — Preliminary to the sale of lands to the settlers, the en tire Cobbosseecontee tract was surveyed and divided into lots, the numbers of which appear on the original deeds. A plan of these lots, projected from Solomon Adams' survey of 1808, appears on the pre ceding page. Enoch and Sarah (Libbey) French came in 1811 from Seabrook, N. H., and settled where their son, George W. French, now lives, at the Corner, which was named after his father. A part of the old house is still well preserved. Nathaniel Leighton, Joseph Roberts and Nahum Merrill, a brother of Daniel Merrill, all came from Gorham, Me., about 1810. Mr. Roberts settled at Nudd's Corner, where Clarence Curtis now lives, and Mr. Leighton settled where Frank Sherburn lives. Joseph Haskell came to West Gardiner in 1818, from Gloucester, Mass. He was a sea captain and followed his calling for several years after he settled here. Peter Clark came from Hallowell and located where his grandson, George Clark, lives. James Lord came from Ipswich, Mass., and spent the balance of his life on the place where his grandson, Charles McCausland, lives. His death was tragic — his house was burned in 1847, and he perished in the flames. Abel French settled on the cross road from North to High streets, about 1812. Aaron Wadsworth came from Massachusetts between 1790 and 1800, and settled where Isaac Wentworth lives. Elias and Benjamin Howard, from Massachusetts, also lived on land now owned by Mr. Wentworth. Caleb Towle lived where his son, Orrin, now resides. Aaron Haskell lived where Miss Irene Collins lives. Daniel Herrick and John W. Herrick lived on the next farm to Joseph Haskell, where John W.'s daughter, Mrs. Helen A. Fuller, now resides. The old house in which Joseph Haskell lived was burned. It stood on the place now owned by Albert W. De Fratus. Ezekiel Robinson came in 1802 from Gloucester, Mass., and settled on the farm now owned by Lambert Perkins, on which his son, Benjamin B. Robinson, lived till he was eighty years old. Ezekiel was a brother to the widely known almanac maker, Daniel R. Robinson. Nathaniel Currier was born in Southampton, N. H., and moved to Sedgwick, Me., from whence he came to West Gardiner in 1816— that memorable cold summer when the ground froze and corn and pota- TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. 671 toes were killed in June and were hoed the first time in July, and again killed by frost in August. Mrs. Harriet B. Sampson, Mr. Cur rier's daughter, now living at the age of 84 with her daughter, Mrs. Doctor Whitmore, in Gardiner, remembers that a few potatoes were all the crop her father was able to raise that year. Mrs. Sampson has vivid recollections of the old times, some of which are as follows. William Morse came from Bath, Me., and built a house west of the church on the Hallowell road. William Stevens, father of Moses and John Stevens, came from up the Kennebec river and settled where Reuben L. Snow lives. Captain Chapin Sampson, who came from Boston to West Gardi ner about 1800, had some strange adventures in his day. About 1786 he commanded a big ship that was captured on the Mediterranean sea by an Algerine corsair. He and his crew were stripped of their clothing and driven through the streets of Algiers as a show, being the first Americans ever seen there. They were treated with all man ner of indignities, thrown in loathsome dungeons, and at the end of ten days they were sent into the country to labor as slaves. Captain Chapin and his master soon discovered that they were brother Masons, and at the risk of his life the overseer proved his loyalty to the order by helping his slave to escape. Captain Thomas B. Sampson, son of Captain Chapin, came from Boston in 1826, in which year he was mar ried to Harriet B. Currier. He followed the sea as long as his health would permit. Job Sampson came from Boston to Hallowell and from thence to West Gardiner. He was a blacksmith and his shop stood in the hollow west of the Baptist church. Reuel Rice, son of John Rice, lived where Mrs. Seavey now lives. The Rices were very early settlers. Joseph Neal was an early settler and lived in a house sold to Elisha Seavey. Thomas and Julius Neal were his sons. Thomas lived in the first house beyond the red school house. Israel Hutchinson lived where Joseph Spear lives. Thomas Brann, son of Captain John Brann, an old settler, lived where James W. Small does. Edward Austin lived near where Jonathan Good rich lives. C. J. Edwards lived where his son, Ezekiel, lives. Abra ham Bachelor came from New Hampshire before 1815, and lived on what is now the George Carter place. He was buried in a vault with a granite front, which he built on his own farm. Ebenezer Bailey, from Durham, settled in 1800 near where the Friends' meeting house stands. He was killed by a falling limb while chopping in the woods. Moses Wadsworth, who came from Winthrop in 1809, was a carpenter and the Friend minister. He lived west of the meeting house, near the pond. Paul Hildreth, the first settler in Lewiston, came here and settled in early times near Horseshoe pond, and had sons, Robert and Thad deus Hildreth. Hugh Potter, father of Hugh Potter, was an old set- 672 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. tier near Spear's Corner; also the Marstons. Littlefields and Annis Spear, from whom the " Corner " took its name. Jerry Wakefield set tled on High street, below Nudd's Corner, and John Knox, Chester Rhoades and John Libby lived near Merrill's Corner. Collins Mills.— This locality was originally called Cram's Mills. About 1815 Jacob Cram owned the land on one side of the Cobbossee contee and R. H. Gardiner owned that on the other side, the dividing line being in the center of the stream. Mr. Cram built a wooden dam and a mill which he operated for a time with such success that Mr. Gardiner wanted control of the whole. So he objected to the dam where it rested on his land, and compelled Mr. Cram to remove it. After a long quarrel the matter was settled by Cram selling his land and his part of the water right at a low figure to Gardiner — exactly as the latter had intended from the start. Mr. Gardiner, in 1830, built a dam and afterward mills, which he sold in 1854 to John Collins, the present owner. The stone dam is a most substantial structure, and it has withstood for over half a century the assaults of heavy floods, with accompanying drift ice. The bridge below the dam was built by Mr. Collins in 1843. Paul Collins, father of John Collins, was a native of Ware, N. H., from whence he came to Durham, Me., at the age of fourteen, and then to Manchester, in 1803, where he lived and died. He and his wife, Mary (Winslow) Collins, were both Quakers and are buried in the Friends' burial ground. John Collins, Paul's son, came to his present location and bought for $6,500 one hundred acres of land, on which were a grist mill, a saw mill and a carding machine. The card ing mill was used to make cotton batting and employed four hands. Mr. Collins operated all three of the mills. In 1860 the saw mill and the carding mill were burned. The former was at once rebuilt by Mr. Collins, who also, in 1870, built for George Cowee and Edwin Morse a furniture manufactory, 40 by 80 feet and five stories high. Thirty hands were employed in the summer and forty in the winter, making bedsteads as a specialty. The owners, Cowee & Morse, lived in Augusta. After a short time Morse sold his interest to Joseph Miller, of Augusta. S. S. Brooks, of Augusta, and John Collins then bought the furniture mill and operated it two years, when Collins sold to Prentiss M. Fogler, the firm being P. M. Fogler & Co., who operated it till 1878, when it was burned, together with the new saw mill and the grist mill. The grist mill had two runs of stone and did a fine custom business. Joseph L. Spear built an early store at Collins Mills, and ran it three or four years, when he sold it to Enoch Dill, who sold it two years later to Joseph Adams, who ran it two years and changed it into a dwelling house. Jesse Falls was an early blacksmith, whose shop cJ/<^/2^i- /CsC>7>/£/. 'J ATote— Paul Collins, of Irish descent, was born in Weare, N. H. , in 1772, and died in Manchester, Me., in 1864— his wife in 1858. Their children were: Ruth, born in 1801; George H., 1803; Isaac, 1805; Samuel, 1807; Levi, 1809; Ann W., 1811; Cyrus B., 1814; John, April 17, 1816; and Irene in 1819. John Collins and Emily Winslow were married in 1851. Frank S., their eldest child, now a house builder, living in Boston, was born in 1854 and married Minnie Leavitt, who died in 1885. His second wife was Nellie Perkins, of West Gardiner. Their two children are: John L. and Carl R. The second child of John, Alice M., born in 1857, married in 1882, J. W. Larrabee, of Boston, a shirt manufacturer. They have two children: Emilie H. and John. Ferdie A., the third child of John, was born in 1868 and died when seventeen months old. Jacob Cram built, before 1795, the first mill on the valuable Cobbosseecontee water privilege, which has so long borne Mr. Collins' name. It is a historic spot. Mr. Collins is a life-long democrat and has taken the Portland Argus over fifty years. TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. 673 stood near the bridge at Collins Mills. Moses Hawks was a stone cutter and farmer and had a blacksmith shop. As early as 1810 to 182o bricks were made in a small way in various parts of Gardiner. Nicholas Pinkham, who came from Durham in 1805, and settled where his son, Jeremiah Pinkham, lives, made the bricks on his place to build his chimneys. Xoah Farr came before 1800 from Harpswell, Me., and settled where Benjamin Hopkins now lives. He was originally a fisherman. Elijah Goddard came about 1805 and settled where John M. Gove lives. About 1874 Joseph L. Spear built a saw mill on the Gardiner estate a mile above the mill dam, and runs it yet. Business Enterprises. — About 1815 Daniel Winslow built the first tannery at Cram's Mills, and operated it for twenty-five years. This was torn down and a larger one built by Archibald Horn, who bought Mr. Winslow out. The old works were entirely devoted to tanning leather. Mr. Horn ran the business for thirty years, making a specialty of tanning sheep-skins. Isaiah Hawks purchased the plant and in two years sold to Moses Stephens, who ran it nine years, and sold to William Horn, a nephew of Archibald Horn, about 1870. He ran it several years, till he died, when his brothers, Archibald and Eben, succeeded him, and still continue the business, under the firm name of Horn Brothers. In 1881 they erected two buildings, each forty feet square, and put in a steam boiler and engine, with all the equip ments necessary to do a large business. They are tanning about 7,500 dozen sheep-skins a year, using two hundred cords of bark and the services of four men. Clarence E. Getchell built a tannery in 1S85, 34 by 62, on the east side of the stream, on land leased of John Collins. His machinery is run by water, and his works contain all modern appliances for the most successful operation. His business is confined exclusively to sheep-skins, of which 120,000, many of them foreign skins, are tanned annually, requiring the labor of four men and the consumption of 15o cords of bark. The total earnings are S6.00<» per year. George H. Pope began raising corn for Hallowell canning works in 1886. In 1889 he put in the necessary fixtures and machinery at his home on Highland avenue, and put up 2o,00o cans of corn. In 1890 he put up 28,000 cans of corn and 1,700 cans of pumpkin, which sold for $2,600. He raises from one-third to one-half of all the corn he cans on his own farm. Mr. Pope makes his own cans, gives work to thirty people during the active season, and is the pioneer in the can ning business in West Gardiner . Stores. — The first to engage in the store business at Spear's Cor ner was Frank W. Brann, about 1850. After a short time he was suc ceeded by Joseph L. Spear, who sold his business to Gardiner Spear and George D. Wakefield. Their successors have been: Samuel P. 674 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Stinson, J. L. Spear, Josiah F. Marr, Alpheus Spear, John A. Spear, Edwin Fairbanks, Wallace O. Spear, A. K. P. Edwards, Charles Cut ting. Simon R. Cutting, John C. Babcock and F. W. Brann. The last store at Spear's Corner was by W. C. Whitney, who closed the business in 1890. Joseph A. Brown, jun., opened the first store in Rip's District about 1876. He retired and was succeeded in 1877 by Charles S. Greene, who is still engaged in the grocery business. Mr. Greene is a native of Gardiner, ancl was born in 1836. His father was drowned off the mouth of the Kennebec in 1844. The first store at French's Corner was built and opened by William P. Haskell in 1865, in which business he still continues, living in a dwelling house attached to his store. The next store was established by the Cobbosseecontee Grange in the house of George W. French in 1876, and the last by Frank Towle in 1889, who is located in Grange Hall. Post Offices. — The first post office in town was established April 11, 1828, at the house of Aaron Haskell, who was the first postmaster. His son, Aaron, jun., was appointed March 29, 1832, and held the office until September 5, 1835, when he was succeeded by Daniel Marston. The next incumbent was George W. French, appointed March 13, 1844, and succeeded by Daniel Marston, February 2, 1846. John W. Herrick was appointed September 3, 1849, at which time the name was changed to French's Corner. Francis W. Brann was appointed March 31, 1854, and the name was changed to West Gardiner again. He was followed by William P. Haskell, May 2, 1854; William D. Marston, May 14, 1857; William P. Haskell, September 14, 1861; John W. Her rick, January 26, 1864; William P. Haskell, November 29, 1865; Albert W. De Fratus, September 23, 1885; and Frank E. Towle, the present incumbent, May 13, 1889. This office is on the old post route from Augusta to Freeport and had a tri-weekly mail until about 1875, when the mail route was reorganized and a daily mail established from Augusta to South Litchfield. Prior to 1857 there was a post office at West Gardiner Center, on the Gardiner and Lewiston route, with Joseph L. Spear as postmaster. He held the position for three or four years, and was succeeded by Moses Rogers, who was appointed by Buchanan. Party feeling ran high in the neighborhood and it was not long until there appeared to be no use for a post office or a Democratic postmaster at the Center. Societies. — The Cobbosseecontee Grange, P. of H., was organized February 8, 1875. Jeremiah Pinkham was the first master. In Feb ruary, 1876, the Grange established a store in the house of George W. French, where it was kept eight years, when the profits were found to be sufficient to build the present Grange Hall, which cost over $1,200. The store was operated for the Grange by Albert De Fratus till 1888, TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. 675 then by Lizzie French till the stock was sold to Frank Towle, who rents the lower floor of the hall. Elijah Farr is the present master of the Grange, and Mrs. Celia J. Davis is secretary, with thirty-seven members The Gardiner Lodge of Good Templars was organized in 1871, numbering one hundred members, with Herbert Small chief templar. The Ladies' Library Association at French's Corner was organized in 1886, through the efforts of Mrs. Lizzie W. Buck and Miss Flora Goodwin. Funds were first raised by a ladies' fair, and have been since maintained by entertainments and quarterly dues. The association has a circulating library of over one thousand volumes, kept at George W. French's house. The first president of this useful and commend able enterprise was Miss Flora Goodwin; and Mrs. Lizzie W. Buck is now president and secretary. Schools. — West Gardiner contains nine school districts, each hav ing two sessions of school per year that average from ten to twelve weeks each session. The town school committee for 1891 were Al pheus Spear, Reuben L. Snow and John A. Spear, and the amount raised by the town for common schools was $1,500, and $200 for part support of a high school. The first high school in town was organized in the town hall in August, 1891, with Roscoe B. Parsons as teacher. The tuition is free to residents of the town, and the first session with about thirty pupils, promised well for the future. Ecclesiastical. — The first church organized within what are now the limits of West Gardiner held its initial meeting in the school house at Brown's Corner, December 14, 1815. Elder Levi Young, Wil liam Nash, Sewall Brown, Ezekiel Robinson, James Lord. Joseph Rob inson and seven others signed articles of agreement under the cor porate title of " The First Baptist Church in Gardiner." For the next twenty years their meetings were held in the Brown's Corner school house, and in a school house standing near the location of the present church. At a meeting held February 4, 1835, at the house of Nathaniel Currier, preliminary steps were taken to build a meeting house. Abra ham Beedle was chosen moderator, and Julius Neal, clerk. An ad journed meeting was held only four days later, at which Nathaniel Currier, Nicholas Hinkley, George Nash, Julius Neal and Benjamin B. Brown were chosen as building committee. A subscription paper was circulated and the following pledges were given: Nathaniel Cur rier, $100; William Morse and James Lord, $60 each; Thomas B. Sampson, $50; Nathaniel M. Currier, Job Sampson, Braddock Hatha way and R. H. Gardiner, $30 each; Reuel Rice, Thomas J. Neal, Ben jamin Grover, Nicholas Hinkley, Alden Rice, Israel Hutchinson, Thomas Brann and Edwin Austin, $25 each; Thomas B. Seavey, Abel French, Abraham Bachelor, Rufus Rice, Moses Stephens, Julius Neal, 676 history of kennebec county. Joseph Neal, Benjamin B. Robinson, C. L. Edwards and George Nash each subscribed " one pew." How much the cash value of " one pew " was we are not informed, but the same meeting voted "to locate the said house " on the line between Captain Chapin Sampson and Wil liam Morse, sen., on the road leading from Brown's Corner to Hallowell village, and " to accept the proposal made by Nicholas Hinkley to build and complete said house according to the plan before the society, furnish all of the materials, for the sum of nine hundred dol lars." The house was finished and dedicated in July, 1836. Benjamin B. Robinson was chosen clerk and held the office many years. The pastors have been: Rev. Abraham Beedle, Elder Eliab Cox, Rev. A. M. Piper, Elder Rufus Chase, Rev. W. O. Grant, Rev. H. Pierce, Charles Cook, Rev. Asa Gould and Rev. Mr. Chapman. The church is so much reduced in members and resources that it has become a mission church and has no regular preaching. William K. Wharff is the only deacon. The First Freewill Baptist Church of West Gardiner was organized October 26, 1826, by Elders Samuel Hathorn and Josiah Farwell, with fifteen members. Services were held in school houses till 1840, when a church was built, at a cost of $1,100, on the Litchfield road near Samuel Grover's. Elder Josiah Keene preached the dedication ser mon, and Elders Nathaniel Purrington, Mark Getchell and Isaac Frost took part in the services. In 1842 fifteen members left this church to join the Second church on High street. About 1887 the White House, as it was called, was moved to Spear's Corner — a location nearer the center of the society, where the congregation has grown till it is the largest in town. The records are kept by Ezekiel Ware. The Second Freewill Baptist Church of West Gardiner, formerly called the Center Church, built in 1841, of brick, a house of worship costing $1,300. It was dedicated November 9th of the same year by Elders John Stevens, Thomas S. Tyler, Samuel Bush, Barnard Good rich, Mark Getchell and Nathaniel Purrington. The society was for mally organized January 24, 1842, with sixteen members. The Meth odists assisted in building the house, participated in the exercises, and have always had equal rights in it to hold meetings of their own, which they did as long as any members of that faith were left in that vicinity. Not only the Methodists, but the Baptists have died out, till Rhoda Sherburn is the only living member of the old church, whose roll used to contain such names as Deacon John Blanchard, Joseph Cole, Hiram Pope, Robert C. Towle and Jeremiah Blaisdell, and whose preachers were Elders Thomas S.Tyler, Samuel Bush, Hiram Sleeper, Cleveland B. Glidden and others. Rev. Monroe, of the Freewill Baptist faith, preaches regularly there at present. September 1, 1876, the Christian denomination organized a society in this church, with Hiram Pope, George H. Pope and five females as town of west oardiner. 677 members. Frank Ward, A. J. Abbott and others have been the preachers. Ezekiel Ware says the Second Calvanist Baptist Church was organ ized about 1830. The church and society, which had no house, held meetings in a school house near Spear's Corner. It has been extinct for many years. Among the early preachers were Reverends Bedel, Hooper and Mitchel. Among the teachers were Elias Fairbanks and James Littlefield. No records of the church are extant. Grave Yards. — Early there was a burying place — now unmarked — at Spear's Corner, where some of the first residents were buried. A few years since the yard was disturbed and the remains of the interred persons were removed to the yard near Joseph Fairbanks'. The cemetery on the road from High street to Spear's Corner is in charge of Sexton John Curtis, who also has charge of the town hearse, which is free for public use. In case his services are required to go with it, a proper charge is made. The grave yard on the Hallowell road west of French's Ccrner, was given by R. H. Gardiner. The town has enlarged it and has charge of it. Lots are free. The burying ground on High street has been long in use. The town has had to enlarge it to meet the wants of the public. The Friends have an ancient grave yard near their meeting house. On the corner opposite, Cyrus Howard about forty-five years ago took from his farm a half acre of land and fenced the two front sides with pickets and the two back sides with stone. The lots — free to such as wished to bury there — have been largely used. Mr. Howard's re mains are there. There is a burying ground near Merrill's Corner, that has been in use since the first settlement of the town. The Tucker family have a private burying ground just in the rear of the homestead buildings. It was first used in 1846 to bury the re mains of Jesse Tucker, sen. The lot, which is small, is surrounded by a cast iron fence, and the grounds are duly recorded in the county clerk's office at Augusta. For half a century the Clough family have deposited their dead in a private burying ground on a farm now owned by C. O. Clough. It has a substantial vault and is fenced with stone and iron. personal paragraphs. Joseph E. Babb, son of Joseph and Margaret (Davis) Babb, both of Litchfield, was born in 1839, and is a farmer. He married Armina, daughter of Joseph Roberts. She died leaving two children: Flora E. and Annie M. Llis present wife was Mrs. Martha E. Allen, daughter of William Grover. Mr. Babb enlisted August 15, 1861, in Company D, 7th Maine Volunteers, and reenlisted at Brandy Station, Va., in 678 history of kennebec county. December, 1863. He served in the 7th Regiment until September, 1863, when the 5th, 6th and 7th were consolidated as the 1st Maine Veterans and he was transferred to Company I of the latter regiment. He was discharged at Washington, D. C, June 28, 1865. John C. Babcock, son of John Babcock, was born in 1824, at New castle, Me. He followed the sea fourteen years, and after farming fourteen years in Mexico, Me., he came to West Gardiner in 1865 and bought the Annis Spear place, where he now lives. He married Harriet, daughter of John Brookins, of Pittston. They have eight -children. Alvin W. Brann is the ninth child of Moses and Susan (Thompson) Brann, who came from Berwick, Me., to West Gardiner. Mr. Brann is a farmer. He was collector of taxes two years and is now (1891) -serving his eighth year as selectman. He married Lovisa J., daugh ter of Zebulon Wright, of Lewiston, Me. Their two daughters are: Nellie F. (Mrs. H. H. Hunt) and Ida Belle. James H. Buck, only son of Ira and Mary (Nash) Buck, was born in 1837, and is a farmer and wholesale and retail produce dealer. He married Martha, daughter of Ephraim Wadsworth, granddaughter of Moses and great-granddaughter of John Wadsworth. She died and he married her sister, Lizzie Wadsworth. Charles O. Clough, son of Isaiah and Mary (Haskell) Clough, and grandson of Josiah Clough, was born in 1820, and is a carpenter and farmer. He married Vesta A., daughter of David Dyer, of Fall River, Mass. They have four children: Anna, Hartwell, Willis and Lillian. Captain John Collins, born in 1816, is a son of Paul and Mary (Winslow) Collins, grandson of Samuel and Hannah (Dow) Collins, and great-grandson of Tristram Collins, of Ware, N. H. Paul Collins settled in Litchfield (now Manchester) in 1803 and John Collins lived there until 1854, when he removed to his present home in West Gar diner, where he has since been a farmer and manufacturer. When Paul Collins came from New Hampshire, he brought, on horseback, two hundred apple trees, and set an orchard which is still standino-. John Collins married Emily, daughter of Major Adam Winslow and granddaughter of Hezekiah Winslow, of West Falmouth, Me. Their -children are: Frank S., Alice M. (Mrs J. W. Larrabee) and one son that died in infancy. William H. Curtis, born in 1836, was a son of John Curtis, who came from England when twenty years old and settled in Hallowell. Mr. Curtis was a farmer and speculator; the farm of one hundred acres where he lived for several years, and where his widow and youngest son now live, was originally the John Merrill farm. Mr. Curtis died in 1891. His wife was Marantha A., daughter of John and Mary (Sawyer) Fogg. Their three children were: Flora (Mrs. William Parkhurst), J. Frank and Charles T. TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. 678a J. Frank Curtis, son of William H. Curtis, was born April 6, 1863. At the age of fourteen he began to work at the meat business with his father, and he has made it his principal business since that time. In 1884 he married Isabell Benner, of West Gardiner. Thomas M. De Fratis, born in 1843, is a son of Captain De Fratis. He married Nellie M., daughter of N. J. Benner, of West Gardiner. He was in the drug business in Monmouth for a time, three years in confectionery business in Boston, and since 1882 he has been em ployed in a soda manufactory in Boston. Elijah Farr is the son of William and the grandson of Noah Farr, who came to Harpswell, Me., before 1800, from Cape Cod. William Farr, an early settler in West Gardiner, was widely known as a prom inent member of the Society of Friends. His first wife was Eunice Briggs, of Winthrop, and their two children were Christina and Eunice. Eunice Wadsworth, his second wife, was a relative of General James S. Wadsworth, of Livingston county, who was killed in the battle of the Wilderness. Their children were: Lydia Ann, William H., Elijah, Daniel and Sibyl. William Farr was born in 1798 and died in 1880. Mrs. Farr, born in 1809, now lives with her son, Elijah. He was born in West Gardiner in 1840, and married Carrie Wilson, of Lewiston, in 1869. Mrs. Farr died in 1888. Mr. Farr has, like his father and his grandfather, always been a farmer. He was one of the selectmen of his town for seven years. Seward Merrill, born in West Gardiner in 1828, is a son of Daniel and Lydia (Godfrey) Merrill. He served in the late war in Company B, 7th Maine, as teamster for three years. He was a teamster in Boston for a number of years, and for the last fifteen years he has been watchman in Hallett, Davis & Co.'s piano manufactory, Boston. His wife, Angeline, was a daughter of Charles and Catherine Hinck ley. She died in 1891. Daniel Robinson, born April 8, 1777, in Gloucester, Mass., was a son of Ezekiel Robinson, born November 16, 1738, at Gloucester, Mass., and died at Halifax, N. S., a prisoner of war, in 1777. His wife was Abigail Tarbox, of Gloucester, Mass. Their children were: Polly, Ezekiel, jun., William T. and Daniel. At the age of four years Daniel, the youngest child, was adopted by his uncle, of Newbury port, whose name he bore. His uncle's wife became his early pre ceptress, and from her tuition he attended the public school, high school, and various seminaries. At the age of twenty he began teaching school, and continued in that vocation until about 1830. His literary work after that date is noticed at page 265. In 1798 he married Rebecca, daughter of Major Benjamin Bodge. Of their five children three are now living: Eunice B., widow of Emerson Tit comb; Daniel, now of Boston, and Pamelia G., the widow of Johnson K. Allen. Mr. Robinson died December 7, 1854. 678b history of kennebec county. Captain Thomas B. Sampson was a son of Captain Chapin Samp son mentioned at page 671, who commanded vessels in the merchant. service until he retired from the sea and settled on the farm where he died December 29, 1853, at the ripe age of eighty-six. He married Sarah Smith, of Boston, and that union was blessed with nine children. The fourth child and third son of this family was Thomas B., whose por trait appears on the opposite page. He was born February 6, 1797, at Waldoboro, Me. He received the advantages of the common schools of those times, and at an early age began an apprenticeship to a spar maker in Boston, where he remained until the beginning of the war of 1812. Circumstances transpired in 1813 that fired the patriotism of the young mechanic, and he abandoned the tools of his craft and at once enlisted in the navy, where he served his country for two years. Here a taste for a seafaring life was acquired. On being discharged from the navy he decided to enter the merchant service, and shipped "before the mast." It was not long, however, before he became a chief officer, and in 1824 he became master of a vessel. Skillful sea manship, good judgment, and superior executive ability character ized his career in the European trade, where he operated successfully as master of vessels for 34 years. In 1858 he sold his vessel property and retired to his farm to enjoy his well earned and ample competency.. His marriage May 15, 1826, was with Harriet B., the eldest daugh ter of Deacon Nathaniel and Sarah (Abbott) Currier. Their four children, who are all dead, were: Harriet E., the wife of Dr. Chad- bourn W. Whitmore; Adelia B., William C. and Thomas C, who was a druggist in Bath, Me., where he died in 1859, leaving a widow, Charlotte M. (Jackson) Sampson. In 1826 Captain Sampson bought a farm place in West Gardiner, which was his home for the remainder of his life, which terminated August 31, 1873. In the family lot a few rods south of the house rest his honored ashes, near those of his parents. His widow, who survives him, still owns the farm, though she has resided in Auburn, Me., since the death of her daughter, Mrs. Whitmore, with whom she lived after her husband's death. Captain Sampson was much beloved in the community in which he lived, for his uprightness of character, and was respected by all who knew him for his firm, just and reliable dealings. His rec ord is one of honor, a record of honest labor and duties conscien tiously performed. Politically, he was a democrat of the Jeffersonian type, though the quiet retirement of his home was more congenial to his tastes than political office or activity in social organizations. But his heart was too large to embrace his own kin only, and his gen erosity opened his home to the homeless and his purse to the needy. In his life journey of more than three quarters of a century he left many a footprint on the sands of time for the benefit of future generations.. S«|; TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. 679 Ezekiel R. Edwards, born in 1825, is a son of Cypran J. and Susan H. (Robinson) Edwards and grandson of Joshua and Mary (Stevens) Edwards. Joshua served seven years in the revolutionary war. He came from Connecticut to Maine. Mr. Edwards is a farmer on the farm where his father lived and near where his grandfather settled when he came to West Gardiner. He married Lydia A., daughter of John M. Gove. Their two daughters are: Inez J. (Mrs. George J. Ring) and Annie M. George A. Fuller, born in 1828, is a son of Deacon Daniel Fuller. He is a farmer. He married Charlotte Augusta, daughter of Ebenezer Swift, and they have had three children: Alberton G., Edith H. and Eva G. (deceased). Frank E. Fuller, born in 1842, is a son of Deacon Daniel Fuller, and is a farmer on the homestead of John W. Herrick. He married in 1874, Helen A., daughter of John W. and Susan A. (French) Her rick. They have one child: Blanche M. Daniel Herrick and his wife came from Ipswich and Gloucester, Mass., to Gardiner and bought the farm where Mr. Fuller resides, in the year 1802. He was a carpenter by trade, and when not at work at his trade he was engaged in clear ing up his farm and getting together materials with which to build a house. The house was commenced in 1807 and finished a few years later. It is now in good repair and owned and occupied by the third generation. Daniel Herrick died in 1841, aged 60 years; Elizabeth Herrick, 1851, aged 67 years. They had eight children: Eliza A., died August 18, 1843, aged 35 years; Captain Daniel, October, 1846, aged 38; Sarah Jane, September 15, 1837, aged 21; Gorham, Septem ber, 30, 1825, aged 18; Gorham, November 5, 1832, aged 3; Sophronia W., September 20, 1843, aged 18; Mary, October, 1867, aged 58; John W., May 30, 1887, aged 67. After the death of Daniel Herrick his son, John W., took the farm and lived there until his death. In 1848 he was appointed postmaster, and held the office nearly eight years. He was again appointed in 1861 and served until 1865, when he re signed in favor of William P. Haskell. He was several times chosen chairman of the board of selectmen and collector of taxes. He was married in 1844, to Susan A. French, and they had five children: Helen A., born September 7, 1846; Florence I., born August 5, 1850, died March 24. 1867; Clara V., born February 10, 1853, died April 4, 1867; Cora I., born February 28, 1855, died March 23, 1867; Hattie N., born November 15, 1861, died March 20, 1867. Several additions have been made to the farm from time to time. The grounds around the house are beautifully ornamented with shade trees, giving the place a very pleasing appearance. Horace A. Fuller, born in 1849, is the youngest of fifteen children •of Deacon Daniel and Annie (Lord) Fuller and grandson of William and Lucy (Hodgkins) Fuller. Mr. Fuller is a farmer on the farm 680 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. where his grandfather settled in 1806, when he came from Ipswich, Mass. He married Mary, daughter of Moses Rogers, and their chil dren are: Lewis W. and Marion, and one son that died in infancy. Hugh Getchell, father of Asa Getchell, came from Durham, Mass., about 1815 and settled where Thomas Goodwin now lives. Clarence E. Getchell, son of Asa, married, first, Kate Gordon, by whom he had three children: Hugh, Fuller J. and Forrest. Hugh was drowned when seventeen years old, while bathing in the Cobbosseecontee. In 1883 Clarence E. married his second wife, Isabel Bachelor. They have one child, Lucy. Hubbard Goldsmith, born in Litchfield in 1814, is a son of Isaac and Mary (Johnson) Goldsmith. He lived several years in Richmond, and in 1867 came to Gardiner, where he was a farmer (with the excep tion of one year in the livery business) until 1875, when he came to West Gardiner, where he now resides. He married Helen S., daugh ter of Elijah Robinson. She is deceased. Of their twelve children, eight are living: Hubbard, jun., Charles B., Aarabine, Hettie, William, Mary M., Wilbur and J. Fred. Charles S. Greene, son of Levi B. and Eleanor S. (Ware) Greene and grandson of Isaac Greene, was born in 1836, and is a farmer. Since 1877 he has kept a grocery and feed store. He married Judith W., daughter of Otis Perry, and their children are: Mary E., Samuel O. and Hattie L. William P. Haskell, the only surviving child of Joseph and Mary Haskell, was born in 1828, and has been a merchant at West Gardiner since 1865. He has been town clerk since 1863 with the exception of one year, was postmaster twenty years, and has held every office of the town except school committee. He represented the district in the legislature in 1877. He married Helen M., daughter of Daniel Burns. Their children are: Mary F., Clara G., Abbie L. and William P. (de ceased). Samuel Horn, father of Archibald and Eben Horn, was a tanner by trade. He came from Hallowell and lived in West Gardiner for about fifty-five years, dying in 1890. Archibald was born in West Gardiner in 1853, and married Christina Willis in 1883. Eben was born in West Gardiner in 1855. February 14, 1877, he married Maggie A. Hayward. They have three children: Erving Hayward, born June 8, 1878; Harry Cliford, and Hallise Leon, born June 20, 1881. Elijah Jackson, born in Pittston in 1821, is a son of Elijah and Abigail (Cutts) Jackson, and grandson of Thomas Jackson. Mr. Jack son followed the sea from 1839 until 1868, when he came to West Gardiner, where he is a farmer. He married Elizabeth, dauchter of Rufus and Judith (Lapham) Lord. Their children are: Clarence S., of Gardiner; Nellie M. and Ettie F. TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. .OS] Thomas Lunt, born in Gardiner in 1834, is the eldest of nine chil dren of Joseph W. and Mary (Brann) Lunt, grandson of Joseph and Lydia \. Wharf) Lunt, and great-grandson of Captain William Lunt. Mr. Lunt served in the late war in Company C, 1st Maine Cavalry, from December, 1861, to December, 1864. Before the war he was a paper maker, and since then has been a farmer. He married Frances A., daughter of Jonathan B. Allard. They have two children: Joseph AV. and Percy Thomas. James McCausland, son of Jerry and Olive (Cram) McCausland, and grandson of James and Mary (Berry) McCausland, was born in 1821, and carries on the farm where his father settled in 1814. He is one of ten children, five of whom are living: Olive C, James, Thomas C, Nancy H. and Julia A. William D. Marston is a son of Daniel and Nancy (Freeman) Mars ton, and grandson of Nathaniel and Eleanor (Watson') Marston, the latter of Litchfield, Me. Nathaniel Marston came from New Hamp shire to Winthrop, and in 1806 settled in West Gardiner. Nancy W. Freeman, wife of Daniel Marston, was from Westbrook, Me. William D. is a farmer on the farm where his father lived. He is one of nine children, seven of whom are living: Gustavus A. (deceased), married Catharine F. Burr, of Litchfield, Me.; Mary Isabella, married Charles R. Gilman, of Monmouth, Me.; Eleanor M., married Oliver S. Edwards, of West Gardiner; Charlotte W., married Duncan M. Ross., of Port land, Me.; William D., married Olive F. Allen, of Boston, Mass.; Daniel E., married Ellen E. Merserve, of Richmond, Me.; Ann E., married James B. Crossman, of Durham, Me.; Emma F., married Nathaniel J. Benner, of Monmouth, Me.: Abbie T. (deceased), married Daniel Bean, of Mt. Vernon, Me. Daniel E. Merrill, son of Daniel and Lydia (Godfrey) Merrill, who came from Gorham, Me., in 1810, was born in 1833, and lives in the brick house built by his father in 1850. He was mining in California from 1857 until March, 1863, when he enlisted in the army, serving until July, 1865, when he was discharged as sergeant of Company E.,' 2d Mass. Cavalry, and has since been a farmer on the old homestead. He married Ellen S., daughter of Rev. Jairus and Sophia (Cargill) Fuller, and has two children: Evelyn M. and Alfred R. Edward S. Norton, the youngest and only survivor of nine chil dren of William and Sarah (Bradstreet) Norton, was born in 1818. He was fifteen years empkyed as a paper maker, and in 1841 bought the farm in West Gardiner where he now lives. He married Caroline, daughter of Solomon Hatch. She died in 1860, leaving three daugh ters: Sarah B. (Airs. James Brann), Julia (Mrs. Eugene Collins), and Mary (Mrs. M. Roach). Their eldest child, George E., was born Sep- 44 682 history of kennebec county. tember 21, 1841, and died October 2, 1845. His second marriage was with Frances Libby, by whom he has one son, Edward L. Elijah Pope and Susanna (Capen), his wife, came, in 1816, from Stoughton, Mass., and settled the farm on which his grandson, George H. Pope, now lives. From his cellar he dug the clay and made all the bricks for his large, fine house, which is still in excellent condition. This has probably never been doue in West Gardiner before nor since. Elijah died in 1864; his wife died in 1881, aged 92. His son, Hiram, married Dorcas Ann Blanchard, of West Gardiner, and died on the old homestead in 1886. His son, George Hiram Pope, married Abbie Issabel Brann, December 24,1874. They have three children: Hiram F., Clara Belle and Forrest G. Mr. Pope is a farmer and manufac turer, and has been town treasurer twelve years. Robert D. Rhoades, born in 1829, is a son of Chester and Mercy (Douglass) Rhoades. Chester Rhoades came from New Hampshire to Maine in 1814, and in 1824 settled in West Gardiner, where he died in 1882, aged 83 years. Robert D. was railroading seven years and since 1855 has been a farmer. He married Almira M., daughter of Joseph Fuller. Their daughters are: Lizzie A. (Mrs. James F. Booker) and Myra B. (Mrs. John Cragan.) James Spear, born in 1800, was a son of Annis and Sarah (Hil dreth) Spear. He was a farmer, and until his death in 1871 his home was where his two youngest children now live. He married Mary Ann Merrill, and of their twelve children six are now living: Mary Elizabeth (Mrs. Wright), Melissa (Mrs. Gilman), Leander, Alonzo, James Abbott and Annette M. John Spear, 2d, son of John and Mary (Potter) Spear, and grandson of Israel Spear, was born in 1826. His father was a pensioner of the war of 1812. Mr. Spear served in the late war from March, 1864, to July, 1865, in Company I, 31st Maine Volunteers. He married Re becca, daughter of David and Sarah (Smith) Bassett, and granddaugh ter of David Bassett. Their children are: Flora E., Millard F., Phi- lossa A., and S. Emeline. Alpheus Spear, born in 1838, is a son of Richard and Priscilla (Lunt) Spear and grandson of Israel Spear. He is a teacher and farmer, and is now a member of the school committee. He married Elura L., daughter of Orlando F. D. Blake and granddaughter of John S. Blake. John A. Spear, son of Richard and Priscilla (Lunt) Spear, was born in 1844. He was in his country's service during the civil war. He is a school teacher and farmer. He served nine years on the board of selectmen, three years as supervisor of schools and several years as member of the school committee. He married Lizzie, daughter of Samuel P. Stinson. Their children are: Bertha and Edward. Joseph Trafton, the youngest of ten children of Thomas and Jerusha (Oliver) Trafton and grandson of Jotham Trafton, was born TOWN OF WEST GARDINER. 683 in 1838, and is a farmer. He served in the late war in Company I, 24th Maine Volunteers. He married Mary E., daughter of Hiram Haines. Their children are: Fred P., Alice M., Charles E. and Willie L. Jesse Tucker, a native of Canton, Mass., and his wife Rebecca (Fisher) Tucker, came to West Gardiner in 1806 and bought of Julius Morton, who then kept a store near by, part of the farm where his grandson, Edgar D. Tucker, now lives. Their ten children were born here and three daughters are still living. The children were: Lucy (Mrs. Woodman True), John, Rebecca (Mrs. Daniel Bartlett), Miss Hannah, Ann (Mrs. Moses True), M;ss Jane M., Jesse, jun., David, Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas Barber) and Mary (Mrs. George H. Billings). David Tucker, who died in 1887, married Abigail W. Fuller, who died in 1861. His second marriage was with Susan Tappan. He was a farmer on the homestead. He left two children, Angelia and Edgar D., who married Annie E. Cram, and has two daughters, Florence E., and Jessie E. He is a farmer and occupies the homestead with his sister and two aunts, Hannah and Jane M. Jesse Tucker's parents were Benjamin and Jane (Babcock) Tucker. Ezekiel Ware, born in Webster in 1822, is a son of James and Lydia (Staples) Ware, and grandson of John Ware. Mr. Ware came to West Gardiner in 1836, where he is a farmer. He married Jane S., daugh ter of Charles Smith. Their children are: John A., Georgia A., Martha L., Fred J., Jessie M., Frank E. and Irving L. William H. Williams, son of James and Bethiah (Sparks) Williams, was born in 1824. His mother was born in Bowdoinham, Me. Mr. Williams is a farmer. His parents came from Saccarappa to West Gardiner in 1806. He married Eliza A., daughter of Samuel Butler. .She died, leaving two children, James E. and Kate M. CHAPTER XXVI. TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. By H. D. Kingsbury. Location and Natural Features.— Thrift of the Inhabitants.— The Settlers. — Civil History. — Purgatory. — Litchfield Plains. — Litchfield Corners. — South Litch field. — Saw and Grist Mills. — Brick and Lime. — Cider Mills. — Asheries.— So cieties. — Schools. — Churches. — Cemeteries. — Personal Paragraphs. THE town of Litchfield — many sided and many angled — constitutes the southwestern extremity of Kennebec county. Its appear ance on the map is that of some unfortunate object whose head lies submerged in Cobbosseecontee pond and whose neck is still being uncomfortably squeezed between Monmouth on the left and West Gardiner on the right, which towns, with a touch of Wales on its lower left flank, form its northern boundary. On the east lie West Gardiner and Richmond, the latter being separated by the Cobbossee contee and its ponds; on the south it rests on the towns of Richmond and Bowdoin in Sagadahoc, and Wales in Androscoggin county, and its western neighbors are Wales and Monmouth. The eastern part of Litchfield is somewhat uneven, the central is comparatively level, and the western portion is hilly. Oak and Neal hills are its highest elevations. Its soil has all the varieties of south ern and central Maine, from the thin sprinkle of sand and gravel that in many spots try in vain to conceal its rocky anatomy, to the rich clay loam and alluvial deposits of its productive plowlands and mead ows. The records of nearly a score of once active, but now generally defunct, saw mills attest the variety and abundance of its primitive forests. The number and size and the tasteful and durable structure of its farm houses and barns, every one created from the products of its for ests and its fields, are unmistakable proofs of the sterling qualities and high character of its permanent settlers and their descendants. Hundreds of miles of stone walls, made from the scatterino- and over plentiful deposits of old, snail paced glaziers, before their farms could be leveled and cultivated, are the time enduring monuments of their heroic will and work. Well does the present generation retain the characteristics of its noble fathers and mothers ! The first proof is TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 685 their continued vigor and thrift — the persistent power of compelling the oft-times reluctant soil to yield a living income, and then that ad mirable, anti-failure habit of living within it. The next proof is the fact that they keep in step with modern progress. Underneath and besides the Litchfield Institute, which was organized forty-six years ago, and had been preceded by a high school for several years, lie the common schools, which have always been kept in an efficient condi tion in Litchfield, for without them no demand would have existed for a school that begins where they leave off. Then, when the high est of all tests is applied — the moral test — the present is encouraging, the churches and Sabbath schools being generally well attended and supported. Settlers. — The first comers were hunters, one of the most promi nent being a man named Wilson. They made selections, built cabins, marked trees, hunted and fished and awaited the advent of any pros pecting settlers to buy their claims. A survey made in 1776, by John Merrill, of six lots of eighty acres each, is the earliest definite proof we have of names, dates and location of settlers. Benjamin Hinckley had lot No. 1; Eliphalet Smith, 2; Barnabus Baker, 3; Thomas Smith, 4: Benjamin Smith, 5; and Barnabus Baker, jun., had lot No. 6. Ben jamin Hinckley and Eliphalet Smith were here in 1774, and Thomas Smith, on whose lot his great-grandson, David Thurston Smith, now lives, did not settle here till 1780. Thomas and Benjamin Smith bought claims of hunters, and it is believed that many other first comers did the same. When the pro prietors of the land, who lived mostly in New York, learned of what was being done, they sent surveyors to establish lines and boundaries and make maps of their possessions. The hardy pioneers did not take kindly to this. Disguised as Indians, they attacked the survey ors, drove them from place to place, and made it impossible for them to do accurate work. But they were determined and plucky, and managed to take observations from one elevated point to another, computed distances they were not allowed to measure, established some land-marks, recorded their work on a map, and returned to their employers with the story of their hazardous and arduous undertaking. Then commenced correspondence and negotiations between the proprietors and the pioneers, partly of a peaceful and partly of a threatening character. After a time a conference was effected be tween the parties and in most cases the differences were adjusted by the settlers surrendering one-third of their claims and receiving quit claim deeds of the remaining two-thirds. Sumner Clark lives on the farm owned by his father, Samuel Clark, and by his grandfather, Samuel Clark, who settled and built there before 1800. Some of the old names in the Ferren school district, in the southwest part of the town, were: Richard Ferren, John Thurlow, 686 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. John Lydston, Alexander Gray, Isaac Randall, James Williams, John' Gatchell and Simeon S. Higgins. On the Earle school house road were: Thomas Alexander, from Topsham, Me.; Edward Gove, Eben and Robert Dunlap, from Bruns wick, Me.; Joseph Potter, and a brother of his; Jabez Robinson, David Springer, and his two sons, Thomas and David; Adonis Johnson, and Andrew Springer, and Elisha Nickerson, on a cross road. On Oak hill were: George Potter, James Marr, Enoch, Isaac and James Dan forth, sons of Isaac Danforth; Joshua and Joseph Mitchell, Solomon Dennison, James Hutchinson, Levi Day, Isaac and Nathaniel Frost,. Peleg Campbell, Deacon Moss, Thomas Burke, Thomas Bucher, Es quire Shirtliff, Elisha Smith, Samuel K. Smith and Stephen Lemont.. On the Plains road were Cornelius and John Toothaker. John Potter and James Libby, Jerry and William Potter, lived on the Mill road; also Joseph and James Williams, Samuel Cook, Robert Stinson, John Smith and James Adams. In the Waterman school district, in the southeast part of the town, some of the early settlers were: Samuel Patten, Sylvanus Waterman, John Robinson, James Brown, Nathaniel Smith, Timothy Blanchard,. who came in 1791 from Massachusetts; Deacon Morgridge, John Brown, Samuel Jack and Elisha Hopkins. Barney, Smith and Judah Baker all lived near the Corners, and all came before 1800; also Moses Smith, father of Nathan, Samuel, Elisha and Josiah Smith. James Earl was a large land owner. Captain Joshua Walker had fourteen children, all alive when the youngest was forty years old. Jabez Robinson, David Potter and Andrew Springer, three old settlers, were each killed by falling trees while chopping in the woods. Civil History. — Litchfield was organized as a town in 1795, be fore which it was known as Smithfield Plantation. Town meetings were held in Daniel Nickerson's house until 1813, then in the North Litchfield Baptist meeting house until 1840, and in the Free Baptist- meeting house in 1841. The town purchased the site and built the present town house in 1840, at a cost of $1,100. In 1860 a town farm of 112 acres was bought, on which to support the town poor, who had been boarded by the lowest bidder up to this time. Rev. Isaac Frost was particularly active in this humane move, which met strong opposition. At present there are but five inmates of this house. The total annual expense for town poor is $250 more than the proceeds of the farm. Reuel W. Cunningham is employed by the town to manage the concern at a yearly salary of $250. The original area of Litchfield has been reduced three times since- its organization by additions to other towns. November 4, 1816, the town voted to set off the entire neck lying east of the Cobbosseecontee pond. In 1827, when the town of Wales was erected, a detachment TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 687 was taken from. Litchfield, and in 1859 all that part of West Gardiner lying west of the Cobbosseecontee was also taken from Litchfield. The affairs of the town have been well managed by a board con sisting, from the first, of three selectmen, chosen annually. For the most part those chosen have been the otherwise prominent men of their time. The following have served the number of years, not always consecutive, indicated after their respective names, the date of first election being given:* 1795, James Shirtliff and Thomas Morg- ridge, each 2, and John Neal 29; 1796, John Dennis 3, and Nathaniel Berry 1; 1797, Abijah Richardson 2; 1798, John Smith, jun., 25; 1800, Thomas Smith 8; 1806, Sewall Brown 2; 1808, Sylvanus Waterman 7 1809, Edward Gower 5; 1812, John Pike 3; 1813, William Robinson 23 1816, David C. Burr 11; 1827, Samuel Hyde 2; 1829, John Robinson 2 1829, Hiram Shorey 7; 1830, Martin Metcalf 2, and Elias Plimpton 4 1833, Ephraim Wadsworth; 1834, William Farr 2; 1835, Asa Bachelder 4; 1837, L. Y. Daley 3; 1838. Thomas Springer 3, and Joseph Williams 3; 1844, Josiah True 11; 1845, James Alexander 2, and Hugh Wood bury; 1847, Samuel Patten 2, and John Woodbury 8; 1849, Smith Baker 3; 1850, David True; 1851, William Buker; 1852, True Woodbury 5, and Daniel Adams; 1853, Isaac Frost 6; 1856, Isaac Starbird 4; 1858, Nathaniel Dennis 7; 1859, Charles H. Robinson 4; 1861, John Hancock 2; 1862, Thomas Holmes 12, and Samuel W. Libby; 1864, James Colby 3; 1867, David S. Springer 8; 1868, Benjamin W. Berry 3; 1870, William G. Williams 2; 1872, John Patten 2, and John L. Allen; 1874, Samuel Smith 9, and Melvin Tibbitts 4; 1878, M. S. H. Rogers 7, and William G. Webber 5; 1880, William S. Snow; 1881, Charles A. Metcalf; 1882, Elisha N. Baker and Charles B. Preble, each 2; 1884, Reuel W. Cum ningham 2, and George A. Emerson 4; 1886, John Purington 4; 1887, Samuel Williams 2; 1888, Stillman H. Ring; 1890, E. P. Springer 3 years; and in 1892, Samuel Smith and Frank N. Adams. The town clerks in succession, with year of election, have been: John Neal, jun., 1795; James Shirtliff, 1802; John Neal, 1803; John Smith, 1808; John Neal, 1809; John Smith, 1810; Sylvanus Waterman, 1812; John Smith, 1814; John Neal, 1815; David C. Burr, 1817; John Neal, 1824; David C. Burr, 1825; Asa Bachelder, 1826; Elias Plimpton, 1832; Asa Bachelder, 1833; Elias Plimpton, 1834; Asa Bachelder, 1837; William O. Grant, 1839; Constant Quinnam, 1847; William O. Grant, 1849; Isaac W. Springer, 1852; William G. Williams, 1860; G. C. Waterman, 1863; Isaac W. Springer, 1870; William G. Williams, 1874; Charles A. Metcalf, 1876; Gardiner Roberts, jun., 1880; and William F. Adams, since 1885. The successive treasurers have been: John Dennis, elected in 1795; Abijah Richardson, 1797; Jabez Robinson, 1806; Thomas Morg- * The names in these lists are from the records, by William F. Adams, town clerk. 688 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. ridge, 1810; John Neal, 1811; John Dennis, jun., 1815; William Bart lett, 1831; John Smith, 1835; John Dennis, 18-D; C. Toothaker, 1844; John Neal, 1845; John Dennis, 1846; Nathaniel Dennis, 1857; John Hancock, 1864; N. Dennis, 1865; Thomas Holmes, 1873; N. Dennis, 1875, and David S. Springer, since 1882. Purgatory.— That early settled locality, so long called Purgatory, seems to have received its name from a humorous incident that oc curred in August, 1776, when William Gardiner and a party of his friends came to this locality to inspect the old dam, timbers and plank from which are still to be seen a rod above the present dam. The next day, on their return to Gardiner, some one asked where they had spent the previous night, and Mr. Gardiner replied, "in pergatory — the mosquitoes and black flies were so thick we couldn't get a wink of sleep." The reply was repeated and laughed over by the people of the surrounding country, till they refused to call it by any name but Purgatory. Preachers and map makers have tried Pleasant Valley, North Litchfield and Litchfield P. O., but the old name is indelible. General Dearborn gave the water rights to the first settlers; but who built the first grist mill and saw mill, and when, is not known. Simeon Goodwin came before 1800, and the property was known as " Goodwin's Mills " for the next three-quarters of a century. William Gay, of Gardiner, told Warren Plimpton that his father, Esquire Seth Gay, owned an interest in the old grist mill, and that in 1805, when he was a small boy, he often came from Gardiner on horseback, when the road was by marked trees, after a two bushel bag of toll grain. There is a report that an early settler by the name of West once owned the mills. Simeon Goodwin was succeeded by his son, Andrew Goodwin, Daniel Bartlett and Deacon Dennis, as mill proprietors. Andrew Goodwin's interest descended to his son, Andrew J., who bought his partners' interests, and ran the mills till about 1870, when he sold the property to Jesse Bartlett and Merrill True. The latter now owns the grist mill, and Andrew Bartlett owns the saw mill. The grist mill has one run of stones taken from a granite boulder near the Colby bridge by Simeon Goodwin, over one hundred years ago. Elias Plimpton came in 1820 from Walpole, Mass., to this noted water privilege, bought property, built shops, put in a trip-hammer, and began making hoes and axes, and doing general blacksmithing. He drew his manufactured goods by wagon to Portland and Bangor. In 1845 he began making forks, and since then potato diggers have been made in large quantities. Upon his death he was succeeded by his sons, A.Warren and George Plimpton, who had been his partners, and they continue the business under the old firm name, E. Plimpton & Sons, giving work to twenty-five men. Their tools have such a sterling reputation that they have never been able to make as many goods as they could sell. This manufactory is the largest in Litch- TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 689 field. During war times this firm bought of John Robey his landed rights at the upper dam, which they have just rebuilt and raised, ad ding greatly to the reservoir capacity of the pond, which includes the Purgatory ponds for a distance of over six miles. The water com pany at Gardiner joins with them in this wise provision against a scarcity of water. David Sawyer built before 180(> a tannery where Asa Getchell's stable stands. It was torn down in 1834 by Doctor Pidgeon. Esquire Burr owned it at one time. A fulling mill and carding machine were built in 1814, byT a company which intended to start a woolen factory. Mr. Adams operated it for a while as a carding mill. It was sold and moved to Monmouth over forty years ago, and made into part of the present Ames shovel factory. Moses Glass ran the ashery and made potash there in 1820. About fifty years ago the shingle factory now run by Alfred D. Bartlett was started by Jesse Tucker, and com pleted by Daniel Bartlett, who made shingles several years and sold out to Andrew Goodwin. Alfred D. Bartlett bought the mill in 1888, and has run it since that time. He had operated the mill sometime previous to 1888 in company with another young man. Captain David C. Burr was the first storekeeper at Purgatory and was located in a building near the grist mill. He was followed by Benjamin Babb and he by Rufus Blake. Mr. Blake was burned out and he went into Freeman's hat shop, where he sold goods till he built a new store. This was also burned after he had occupied it a few years, and he left the place. Other storekeepers have been: Pease & True, Ebenezer Kelley, Rufus Howard, Hiram Allen, Daniel Bartlett, Mr. Hyde, John Arnold, Granville Baker, Eli Merriman and Safford Brothers. In 1890 Mr. Merriman was burned out with a heavy stock of goods and suffered a large loss. He immediately moved to his present location, which he owned and where he is still in business. Loring G. Dunn built the store he now occupies in 1882, where he keeps a large variety of goods. Up to about the time Mr. Blake went out of business the merchants all kept and sold large quantities of liquors. Since then Purgatory has been strictly a temperance place. The LTnion Hall Association at Purgatory was formed about 1875. The Reform Club had brought more people together than any build ing in the place could accommodate. Such crowds were a damage to the school house and larger quarters became a necessity. A subscrip tion paper for funds to build a public hall was circulated, and almost every citizen pledged money, work or material. In a few weeks the building was up and finished on the outside, and a floor laid. Then a series of entertainments to raise further funds were held, which were generally successful, over two hundred dollars being col lected in a single night. So the present fine, commodious hall was soon completed at a total cost of about $1,500. A stock company was 690 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. formed, each member being credited with the amount he or she had contributed. The hall is free to meetings of public interest, but a charge is made in all uses for individual benefit, and its earnings keep it in good repair. Frank Adams, Fred Baker and Augustus Goodwin are the present managing officers, and Doctor Adams is secretary and treasurer. John Glass, father of Moses Glass and grandfather of Sewell S. Glass, came to Goodwin's Mills when there were no roads and blazed trees were the only guides. He was a revolutionary soldier and lived on a road now abandoned. Moses Glass lived back of Plimpton's shop. Thomas True, father of the twins, Thomas and David, and of Benja- jamin True, lived where David Crain resides. David Tappan's home was where the Plimptons live. He came here before 1800, and so did David Sawyer, shoemaker and tanner, who lived near the present mill. David C. Burr was a prominent man in early times. He was a farmer, ran the ashery, bought the first wagon owned in town, and was a member of the legislature. He died about 1825. James Jewell was a harness maker; George R. Freeman was a farmer and a hatter, and William Parks was a wool carder and cloth dresser. They all lived near the mill. David Getchell lived where Augustus Goodwin does. James Parker, farmer, lived where Charles Goodwin does. He was a zealous Baptist. He went west about 1835. Richard Davis lived where his grandson, David Wilson, now resides. Mr. Davis, in addition to farming, often loaded and unloaded boats, and sometimes engaged in the coasting trade. Elijah Galusha lived on the Woodbury road, where John Goodwin does. Elijah was a great trapper, which paid very well in those days when wild game was plenty. True Woodbury, father of David and Joseph, was the pioneer from whom the road took its name. He took his farm in its wild state and was noted as a large landholder. The old homestead was where Simeon Goodwin lives, and is still in the possession of his descendants. Hugh Woodbury was another original settler, who cleared up the farm where his son, Benjamin Woodbury, lives. Simeon Goodwin also lived on the Woodbury road where his son, Simeon, jun., now lives. Nathaniel Nevins lived where Milbert Woodbury now resides. Litchfield post office, the oldest in town, was established October 1, 1805, at the house of Jonathan Clark, the first postmaster. He was succeeded by William Cleaves October 1, 1810, who kept the office in the house where W. F. Adams, the town clerk, now lives. He was succeeded by Newcomb W. Stevens July 1, 1813; Asa Bachelder Feb ruary 11, 1831; Augustus Bachelder September 18, 1846: Thomas J. Foster October 28, 1846, and December 5, 1 853, by Moses True; Freeman P. Crowell, 1865; Curtis L. Irving March, 1868; Granville W. Baker TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 691 April, 1868; and Eli Merriman, the present postmaster, in March, 1873. From 1813 to 1846 the office was kept at Trne's Corners, when through the efforts of Elias Plimpton and others, it was removed to Purgatory, where it still remains. Litchfield Plains. — The central part of the town, called Litch field Plains, from its comparatively level surface, also known as Pot- tertown, has a sandy soil, easily worked and well adapted to garden ing and fruit culture, particularly apple orchards. It has been settled over one hundred years. In 1802 Saul Cook, Noah Powers, James Springer, Moses Smith and Captain Jewell were living on the plains. In 1832 the school districts now known as numbers 12 and 15 were one, and the school house standing where the present Baptist church stands, was burned. At that time Jerry and Harvey Springer, Daniel Nickerson and Andrew Baker lived at the west end. On the north road were Deacon Bartlett and Walter Merriman, and on the Corners road Gould Jewell and Robert Ashford. Who built what is known as the old Libby grist mill, no one seems- to know. James Libby, who came in 1823, bought it of Esdras Nick erson, and ran it till the freshet of 1825 destroyed it. The next year James Libby, Moses Dennet and James Earl rebuilt it. After oper ating it many years, they sold it to Joseph Williams, who a few years later sold it to Jeremiah Varney. Varney & Son ran it till the dam was washed away, which they rebuilt. The mill has not been in opera tion since about 1880. Irving Varney still owns the water privilege. About 1827 William Small built a fulling mill below the bridge. A carding mill above the bridge, owned by Esquire John Neal, and run by Joseph Clifford, had been carried away by the freshet of 1825. Another had been built by Potter & Ashford on Spring brook, which Mr. Small bought of them and ran in connection with his fulling mill,. coloring and dressing cloth for several years. This mill came back into Potter & Ashford's hands, and was bought by Joseph Williams in 1840. In 1850 W. G. Williams built a new mill on Spring brook, and put in carding and fulling machinery. After three or four years they dropped the fulling business, but continued the carding works till 1886. The old Small building was used for a time for a tannery by a Mr. Heath, who had sons, Charles, John and Edward. He had a bark mill run by horse power. Ezra H. Daws, afterward a preacher, built a dam and shop where the old original carding machine had stood, made shingles, had a trip hammer and did blacksmithing. He sold to Abiel Daily, who con verted it into a pill box and match factory, and about 1860 Samuel Libby owned it, then Joseph Williams, and afterward David Potter,. who made shingles there. Then Jonathan Rideout bought it, built a- two story building, moved the dam down stream and sold to Henry Bosworth. He sold to William Knight, who put in a grist mill, oper- 692 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. ated it a short time and sold to James Bartlett, who ran it till 1866, when its active career closed. Jeremiah Potter built, about 1810, a saw mill which he used sev eral years, and then allowed to stand idle till 1853, when Daniel W. Perry purchased the property and rebuilt the mill. After that Uriah Gray, John Whitten, Deacon William Chase, George H. Jack, Abiel L. Small, Lorin J. Ayer and John Hutchinson owned interests in the property at different times, till Ayer bought all claims and is now the owner. The mill stands back of Deacon Chase's residence, and is leased and operated by George M. Rogers. Jeremiah and Amos Potter were among the earliest business men on the Plains. The settlement was named after them. They built more than half the houses still standing there, and the stream that drove so many mills bids fair to carry their names far into the future, for it is only known as Potter's brook. William Potter owned a grist mill that was carried away by the great freshet of 1825. The original builder and owner is not known. Amos Potter, son of William, rebuilt the grist mill and ran it twenty or thirty years, and his sons, William and Henry, continued the busi ness till about 1870. This mill and the Lib't>5' mill each had a separ ate run of stone, and the requisite bolts to make wheat flour, as the farmers then raised wheat for home consumption. Below the Potter grist mill stood a saw mill owned by William Spear. Frank C. Wy man has a wood shop and a blacksmith shop on his farm, in which he makes from six to ten new wagons, sleds and carts during the winter time each year. At Litchfield Plains the storekeepers have traded as follows: Jerry Potter, Lendall Adams, Purinton & Berry, Jesse Hatch, Conforth, John Perry, William F. Adams, Jonathan Hunt, Wilson M. Hatten, William Chase, Alden B. Jack, A. E. Brown and James A. Chase. Nearly all these men traded in an old store built by Jerry Potter north of the saw mill. Joseph Williams kept a store between 1850 and 1860 in a building opposite W. Gee William's present residence on the corners. Litchfield Plains post office was established in 1871. Eben Tooth- aker was appointed postmaster, and opened the office at his house, where he has retained the position ever since, with the exception of during a part of President Cleveland's administration, when, in 1887, James A. Chase was appointed. Mr. Toothaker again received the appointment iu 1889. Litchfield Corners is, in many respects, one of the most attrac tive portions of the town. The surface is agreeable and rolling, and possesses productive mixtures of soil. The fact that the skirmish line of civilization, the capricious but discerning hunters, paid this section such decided attentions, and that their judgment was confirmed by the TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 093 intelligent men bearing the name with which common usage so soon christened the entire plantation, is indisputable evidence of its primitive superiority. These earnest men and women came to stay, and their descendants have honored their memory by perpetuating their virtues. By the character and permanence of its moral, educational and secular institutions and associations, it enjoyed many intellectual and social privileges. These varied attractions have made it a central resort for business and trade, and a desirable place of residence. Litchfield Corners has had one, and sometimes two, hotels since about 1850. Their proprietors have been: Smith Baker, Alden Baker, James Chase, David Billings, Dexter Smith (1861 to 1864), William Metcalf, Daniel Campbell, George W. Earle, for eleven years, Elisha Baker, and Dexter Smith, who is at present engaged in the business. The storekeepers at Litchfield Corners, as near as the succession can be traced, have been: Reuben Lowell, Joseph Williams, James Walker, Lorenzo Dailey, David Billings, Isaac Starbird, Solomon Brown, Smith Baker & Sons, Union store, Earle & Holmes, William & Thomas Babb, J. H. & T. Llolmes, Alden B. Jack, James E. Chase, Syl vester Stewart and James W. Starbird, whose store is in the oldest store building at the Corners. It used to be in old times the headquarters of the liquor traffic. Litchfield Corners post office was established in January, 1842. Its postmasters, with dates of appointment, have been: William Rob inson, 1842; Isaac Starbird, 1856; Thomas Holmes, 1856; Alden Jack, 1857; Isaac Starbird, 1861; James E. Chase, 1873; Thomas Holmes, 1885, and James E. Chase again, in 1889. South Litchfield post office was established October 23, 1856, with Augustus L. Bachelder first postmaster. Moses True was ap pointed in 1863, and Charles A. Metcalf in 1889. • Saw and Grist Mills. — About the year 1815 Andrew Jack, Rob ert Patten and Charles Robinson built a saw mill in the southeast part of the town. Since that time the following men have had proprietary interests in it: Nathan Rogers, AVilliam Perry, Warren Smith, Samuel Jack, Charles H. Robinson, Samuel Patten, Samuel Odiorne, James Briery, Joseph S. Hatch, David W. Perry, Daniel W. Perry and Bar- net Thorn. Shingles have been made in the mill for about thirty years, and a grist mill which has not been used for fifty years was once in the same building. A. D. Cornish bought the mill recently of the Robinson estate, and runs it now. About 1790 Samuel Clark built and ran a grist mill on his farm. Before his death, in 1843, his son, Samuel Clark, tore the old mill down and built a larger one, putting in two run of stones and bolts for mak ing flour, and operated it during his life. The second Samuel was suc ceeded by his son, Sumner Clark, who in turn operated the mill for a time and is still on the old farm. A little below the grist mill Dennis "694 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. G. Getchell and Richard F. Ferren built a shingle mill, which they operated a few years. A half mile still further down the stream John Thurlow and David Ware made a dam and a saw mill on land now owned by James Carville. About 1835 this mill was destroyed by fire. Much interest and mystery have been associated with this mill and its surroundings. It was here that one William Wilkins, a cooper, was employed at his trade, and when he disappeared one spring night cir cumstances pointed strongly to two men, who were generally believed to have murdered him, and later burned the mill to effectually cover their crime. Brick and Lime. — The bricks of which chimneys and the many substantial, well preserved brick houses in Litchfield have been made were mostly of home manufacture. From 1810 to 1820 bricks were made on the Hatch farm, on Robert Ashford's farm, and the John Toothaker farm. The Libbys made bricks near the Potter saw mill, and about 1840 bricks were made on Asa Spear's farm, also by Hiram Morrell, on Gideon White's farm. About 1832 bricks were made at Purgatory, on the west bank of the creek, by Moses Glass, John Neal and John Bolden. Simeon Goodwin also established a brick kiln at Purgatory, the only one in town still in operation. Lime was also burned a little before war times on the old David Ware farm, where there is a ledge of lime rock. Rufus Godfrey now owns the place, Cider Mills and Asheries. — Among the cider mill men were: William Payne, Captain Henry Jewell, Aaron and Woodman True, ' Thomas True, Captain Samuel Patten, Amos Potter, David Ware and Benjamin Sanborn, who had mills in town. Amaziah Goggins oper ates a mill built and run by Levi Herriman, forty years ago, and Frank C. Wyman has recently put steam power in his cider mill, where for each of the past fourteen years he has ground from seven to eight thousand bushels of apples, making a total of over ten thousand bar rels of cider. He has two large tanks for vinegar, holding together fifteen thousand gallons. Not many years ago the " ash peddler " was a familiar personage. He drove a stout pair of horses on a wagon with a big box, and car ried a limited assortment of groceries and notions, with which he paid for any ashes he might buy, at the rate of from eight to twelve cents per bushel. These were taken to asheries and made into potash, for which there was always a cash market. Jerry Potter, Isaac Starbird, Josiah Nickerson, Smith Baker & Sons and Hatherton Earl each made potash, and there was another ashery on the George Ricker farm. Societies. — The history of Masonry in Litchfield begins with Morning Star Lodge, No. 41, chartered July 13, 1822. The first officers of the Lodge — John Neal, W. M.; Captain John Dennis, S. W.; David C. Burr, J. W.; John Smith, secretary; J. W. Watson, treasurer, and TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 695 Edward Gove, tyler — were publicly installed in the Baptist church. About 1830 meetings were discontinued and the charter was surren dered. At a meeting held November 14, 1867, over Isaac Starbird's store, the old charter of Morning Star Lodge was restored and officers were duly installed. The four living members of the old Lodge — William O. Grant, John Randall, Andrew Goodwin and Joseph C. Barstow — joined in the new movement. Since then the Lodge has been prosperous, now owning their Masonic Hall, which cost $2,000, and having a membership of 112. A Lodge of Good Templars was chartered here October 17, 1887, with fifteen members. Meetings were held for two years in Stuart's Hall, since then in lower Masonic Hall. The present membership is about one hundred. Samuel Clark is W. C. T. Litchfield Grange,- No. 127, was organized in 1875, with fifteen members. It became quite prosperous, numbering as high as 150 members. A store was kept in Moses True's house, managed by the Grange, with Lucy A. True as selling agent. After about ten years it was discontinued. John Woodbury was the first master of the organ ization, Daniel M. Emerson was the next, and Samuel Smith was the third. The present membership is one hundred, with E. M. Pinkham, master, and A. C. True, secretary. The agricultural fairs, noticed in Chapter VIII, that have for the past quarter of a century given Litchfield such a wide celebrity, grew "from the Town Farmers' Club, which was formed in 1857 by a general movement of the most active farmers of that time, among whom were Thomas H. Springer, John and Benjamin Woodbury, Woodman and Aaron True, John Patten and Josiah True. The first annual exhi bitions were held in the yard about the town house. The Litchfield Fire Insurance Company was incorporated in 1873, with Isaac Smith, president; Daniel L. Smith, secretary, and Dr. Cyrus Kindrick, treasurer. The first policy was issued in 1874, and the num ber now in force is 204, representing a total insurance of $200,000. The losses incurred have been less than $5,000. The present officers -are: Thomas Holmes, president; Dr. Cyrus Kindrick, treasurer, and James W. Starbird, secretary. Education. — There had been a high school established by Isaac Smith, Smith Baker, Solomon Brown and David Billings (of which Benjamin Smith was the first teacher) at Litchfield Corners for seven years previous to 1845, when, by act of the legislature, Litchfield Academy was incorporated. The high school had been located over Starbird's store, but the new school was opened in the upper story of the Congregational meeting house, and there continued till the present academy was built, in 1852, costing about $2,000. The summer ses sion of the legislature of 1849 passed the following: " Resolved that the Land agent of this State is hereby authorized and directed to con- 096 HISTORY of kennebec county. vey to the trustees of the Litchfield Academy, one half township of land situated in the county of Aroostook," etc. The land was not lo cated, but was sold by the trustees for $5,650. A part of this money was used in building and for necessary expenses. In 1891 the leg islature granted this school an annual appropriation of $500, for ten years. The first teacher was Joseph Stacy. Timothy Davis was the first president, and David Billings, secretary. The present officers are: M. S. H. Rogers, president; Asa P. Smith, secretary, and David S. Springer, treasurer. When the Litchfield Academy was established, some of the sup porters of the old high school were so much displeased because it was not located north of the Corners, that they withdrew from the new school, and organized the Liberal Institute, which held its sessions over the Starbird store till funds were raised by subscription and a building was erected in 1851 for its use. The Liberal Institute was kept in existence till about 1870. William Robinson, David Billings and George Potter were prominent in its inception and support. The school building was finally sold to the Masonic fraternity, and is now known as Masonic Hall. There are fifteen school districts in Litchfield. The schools are in good condition, and are doing good work. Churches. — The following is an extract from the venerable records, now in possession of Charles A. Metcalf, of the Baptist church at what was then known as Litchfield, now South Litchfield: " Being requested by the brethren of the branch of the first Church of Christ in Litchfield in order to assist them into a separate church. — Met with them on Thursday the 19th of July A. D. 1798 at Brother James Pierce's, in said Litchfield, examined each particular member of those who were to be embodyed.and found them sound in the Faith of the Gospel and gave them fellowship as one branch of the Baptist Church. Signed Job Macomber, of Bowdoinham." "The members embodyed are as follows: John Neal, Joshua Rich ardson, Joel Richardson, John Waymouth, Joshua Waymouth, James Pierce, Nathan Stevens, Andrew Tibbets, Bartholomew Taylor, Ebeneezer Moon, Betsey Harrimon, Polly Waymouth and Polly Hutchinson." Prior to the opening of the records above quoted, a Baptist church was organized in 1791, with twenty-one members, with William Stin- son as pastor, who continued as a pastor in Litchfield for thirty years. This primitive preacher was ordained in a barn in the northern part of the town. After 1822, this older church had no pastor, and ten years later it disappears from the records of the association.* The Congregational Church of Litchfield Corners was organized June 6, 1811, in the small Congregational meeting house that was afterward moved to Bowdoin for a school house. These are the names * Joshua Millet's Baptists of- Maine, 1845. TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 697 of the eleven original members: Benjamin Smith, Thomas Smith, Elkanah Baker, Samuel Smith, Mehitable Baker, Hannah Smith, Elizabeth Smith, Desire Springer, Elizabeth Smith, jun., Rebecca Hutchinson and Mary Smith. Benjamin and Thomas Smith were the first deacons. The society built a meeting house across the road from the one now in use, and worshiped there till 1845, when it was moved to the present site, remodeled into a two story building — the lower part for church purposes, the upper part for the Litchfield Academy — and so used till 1862, when the building was taken down and the pres ent church built on the same foundation, at a cost of $2,000. Rev. David Thurston preached the dedication sermon. The pastors have been : Reverends D. Lovejoy ; David Starret, 1828 ; Thomas N. Lord, 1836; Timothy Davis, 1837; Benjamin Smith, 1852, died 1858; David Thurston, died 1865, 86 years old; Josiah Taylor Hawes, now 94 years old, probably the oldest Congregational minister in Maine. It appears from the records of the Freewill Baptist Church at Litchfield Plains, that it was organized by Rev. Josiah Farewell and Rev. Samuel Hathorn, a committee appointed by the Bowdoin quar terly conference for that purpose, October 11, 1826, with the following members: Samuel Cook, Andrew Baker, Daniel Nickerson, Dea. Cor nelius Toothaker, Robert Ashford, Robert Stinson, Sally Ashford, Hannah Toothaker, Andrew Baker, jun., Mary Cleaves, Lydia Smith, Mary Knight, and Robert Patten, jun., as clerk. Meetings were held in the barns of C. Toothaker and Robert Ashford, and in the Hall school house until their meeting house was built in 1837. The names of the ministers of this church are: Reverends Samuel Hathorn, Hale Sweet, Barnard Goodrich, Nathaniel Purinton, Homer Gatchell, Robert Stinson, Constant Quinnan, Mark Gatchell, Stephen Purinton, Nehe miah Preble, Ezekiel G. Page and since 1883 Edwin Marson. Deacon William Chase has held his office since 1840. The West Litchfield Freewill Baptist Church was organized in 1875, with forty members, some of whom were: Sumner Clark, Deacon William Varney, Deacon Ferdinand Tracy, Elder William Cunning ham, Ensign Danforth and William Frost and their wives. In 1877 the society built the present church, at a cost of $1,000. Elders Wil liam Cunningham, Mark Gatchell, Bowie and Joseph Nicker son have been the preachers. At present the church has twenty members. The Calvinistic Baptist Church at Litchfield Corners was organ ized some years before the war, and held meetings in the Liberal Institute building. Prominent among the leading members were: Isaac Starbird, David Billings and Benjamin Jackson, with their wives. Elders Lawrence, and John Jackson were preachers. At a meeting held September 5, 1863, it was voted to dissolve the church 45 69S HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. organization by giving each member a letter of recommendation to any sister church of the same faith. Cemeteries.— The cemetery at Litchfield Plains, the largest in town, was used to some extent as a burying ground previous to 1800. Early in the present century Cornelius Toothaker and others bought land of Daniel Nickerson, making the first enlargement of the old plot. A few years after, Robert Ashford and Esquire Joseph Barstow made another addition. About 1860 Dea. William Chase bought ad joining ground of Cornelius Toothaker and James Hopkins did the same. M. Toothaker's daughter afterward sold some lots from her fath er's estate. Steps were soon after taken, in obedience to public senti ment, to organize a burial association to take charge of these grounds. The Litchfield Plains Cemetery Association was incorporated August 1. 1871. Purchases of land for enlargement were made in 1874 and in 1883. John Purinton is president of the association; M. S. H. Rogers, secretary and treasurer, and William F. Adams, sexton. The cemetery lying between Purgatory and the South Litchfield post office contains the venerable dust of such persons as Aaron True, born in 1758; Hon. John Neal, born in 1790; Andrew Goodwin, born in 1793; John Magoon, born 1781; William Bartlett, born 1775, and Elias Plimpton, born in 1794. Esquire David C. Burr and Elias Plimpton in 1826 built a receiving tomb, that it still in possession of the Plimp ton family. The burying ground at Litchfield Corners is probably still older, as in its sacred bosom were deposited the honored remains of Benja min Smith, who was born in 1754; Deacon Thomas Smith, born 1744; Deacon Isaac Smith, born 1795; David Springer, born 1763; Josiah Morrell and his son Josiah; Smith Baker, born 1760, and Rev. Thomas Ayer, born 1797. The Grant burying ground, near John A. Lapham's, contains the remains of many original settlers and their families. A few of them are: Captain John Dennis and wife, Woodman Watson and wife, Joseph Lord and wife, Arthur Neal and wife, Major David Neal, Smith Emerson and wife, Edward Smith and wife, Levi Harriman and his son, Levi, and their wives. Many have been buried there with noth ing to designate the lots. In 1839 Isaac Randall and Richard Ferren gave the land for the burying ground on the Sabattus road. Isaac and Harvey Randall, sons of Isaac Randall, both of whom died of an epidemic the same day, in early manhood, were the first interments in the new o-round. personal paragraphs. Rev. Smith Baker, whose father, grandfather and great-grandfather were all residents and all but the latter natives of Litchfield, was a student in the old Litchfield Academy, then graduated at Bano-or, TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 699 from whence he went forth to face the trying duties of manhood. He is now one of the most powerful Congregational preachers in the great West, standing at the head of his denomination in Minneapolis, a city where only the most capable men can be leaders in any busi ness or profession. Granville W. Baker, son of Andrew and Betsey (Damon) Baker, was born in 1825. He kept a store at Purgatory several years pre vious to 1866, when he sold it to Eli Merriman. He was a mason by trade, but after the war was several years employed in the Plimpton handle shop. He was postmaster from 1868 until 1873. He was bugler in the army from January, 1864, to June, 1865. He enlisted in the 1st D. C. Cavalry .and was later transferred to the 1st Maine Cavalry, Company M. He married Ann M., daughter of James and Abigail (Davis) Hutchinson and granddaughter of Nehemiah Hutchinson. His wife and two sons survive him: Fred E. and Everett B. William Bartlett was born in Haverhill, Mass., in 1775, removed to Durham, Me., and in 1810 came to Gardiner. In 1821 he bought the Bowman farm of one hundred acres and came to Litchfield, where he died in 1860. He married Dorothea M., daughter of Roger Merrill, died in 1880. Of their fifteen children there are five now living: Daniel, Priscilla (Mrs. M. B. Gilman), James, Alice and Dorothea (Mrs. George Stockham). Alice now occupies the homestead, and has charge of the farm. Her sister, Elizabeth M., died in December, 1891. James A. Chase, son of Deacon William, grandson of Nathaniel, and great-grandson of Judah Chase, was born in 1842. Nathaniel Chase was born in Brunswick in 1770. William was born in Bruns wick in 1807 and married, first, Mary J. Alexander, of Litchfield, in 1834. Their children were: Alonzo M., Sarah A., William E., Nancy J., James A., Llewellyn and Olivia H. Mr. Chase married Mrs. Eliza beth Maxwell, of Litchfield, for his second wife, in 1886. He has been a deacon of the Baptist church for over fifty years. James A. Chase was first married to Lizzie J. Parsons, who died in 1877. His present wife was Mary E. Small, of Bowdoinham. James E. Chase, born in Bowdoin in 1838, is a son of James and Louisa (White) Chase, grandson of James and great-grandson of Isaac Chase. He was a farmer and school teacher until November 19, 1863, when he succeeded George Sawyer in the store at Litchfield Corners, where he has since remained. He has been postmaster since Septem ber 2, 1873, except from March 19, 1888, until August, 1889. He mar ried Junietta M., daughter of Enoch and Lydia (Shurburn) Miller. George F. Chick is a son of Charles and Eliza A. (Mathews) Chick, grandson of Jotham, and great-grandson of John Chick, who came from Kennebunk to Litchfield and settled on the farm where Mr. ¦Chick now lives with his mother. 700 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Melville A. Cochrane was born and studied in Litchfield, gradu ated at Bowdoin, and is now colonel of the 6th Infantry, in the regu lar armyr. Ebenezer D. Crane, born in 1799 and died in 1886, was a hoe and fork maker. He learned the trade in Walpole, Mass., and came to Litchfield in 1820, where he worked for the Plimpton Company for the remainder of his active life. His wife was Joanna B., daughter of Thomas True. They had seven children, four of whom are living: Henry, Laura M., Susan and Amanda (Mrs. G. W. Horton). The three that died were: George W., Julia T. and an infant. Reuel W. Cunningham, son of Daniel, jun., and grandson of Rev. Daniel Cunningham, who came from Wiscasset, Me., was born in Litchfield. Daniel Cunningham, jun., married for his second wife, Martha Neal, by whom he had seven children, Reuel and William being the only ones now living. Reuel W. Cunningham and Emma F. Williams were married in 1863, and have two children — Mattie A. and Willie E. Mr. Cunningham's grandfather and his great-grand father were both preachers in the denomination of Calvinistic Bap tists. The former preached many years ago at South Litchfield and the latter in Bowdoin, Me. Mr. Cunningham has for three years past been in charge of the Litchfield town farm. Arington Douglas, born in 1836, is a son of Zebulon and Hannah C. (Johnson) Douglas, grandson of Francis and great-grandson of Zebu lon Douglas. Mr. Douglas is a farmer. His only brother, Clement H., served in the late war and died at Andersonville. Mr. Douglas married Melvina, daughter of Warren and Mary (Nickerson) Smith. Their children are: Clement W. and Nellie (Mrs. G. A. Hamlin). Edmund Dow, born in Bowdoin in 1826, is a son of Edmund and Nellie (Clark) Dow. Edmund Dow, sen., came from Concord, N. H., and practiced medicine for several years in Bowdoin and Litchfield, and died in Bowdoin in 1834. Mr. Dow is the youngest of eleven chil dren, two of whom are now living. He came in 1875 to the farm where he now lives, which was the Doctor Waterman farm of ninety acres. He married Sarah, daughter of Joseph Tarr, and has two sons: Edmund F. and Frank G. Mr. Dow has kept the town farms of Litchfield, Richmond and Gardiner for one, five and eight years, re spectively. Loring F. Dunn, born in 1860, was one of fourteen children of Charles F. and Mary (Goodwin) Dunn, and grandson of William Dunn, who was a druggist and apothecary in Boston, and in 1799 received a commission from John Adams as surgeon in the U. S. Navy. This document is still preserved in the family. Charles F. was a o-raduate of Harvard, and after going to sea four years, came to Litchfield in 1841, where he was a farmer until his death in 1883. Loring F. has been a merchant at Litchfield since 1883. TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 701 Hartley W. Glidden was born iu 1811, in Somerville, Me. He was a farmer and speculator for several years in Cornville, Me., and in 1877 came to Litchfield and bought the Goodwin farm, near the mills at Purgatory, where he died in 1888. His first wife was Lydia Smith; his second, Lydia Ney, and his third wife, who survives him, was Helen M., daughter of Benjamin and Ruth (Ballard) Johnston, and grand daughter of Benjamin Johnston, sen. They have four children: Edith M., Estelle F., Homer C. and Ruth H. John Godfrey and his wife, Lydia (Simmons) Godfrey, came to this country from England in 1831. David, one of their sons, born in 1824, came from Nashua, N. H., to Litchfield, in 1875, where he has since been a farmer. His wife is Hepzibah, daughter of William Seaman. Their living children are: Eliza, May, Emma, William Rufus, George and Hepzibah. Nellie and Lottie J. are deceased. William Rufus is a farmer near his father; he married Hattie E., daughter of Simeon Higgins, and has one son, Harold E. George married Sarah E. Mur ry and has three sons: Frank G., Elmo A. and Eddie. William F. Haines, born in Ripley, Me., in 1844, is a son of Hiram and Eliza (Dill) Haines. He removed to West Gardiner in 1855, with his parents. In September, 1861, he enlisted in Company A, 9th Maine volunteers, serving until July, 1865. From that time until 1890 he lived in Gardiner, and excepting seven years, when he worked at paper making, he was engaged in teaming and trucking. He sold his business there in July, 1890, and bought the George A. Emmerson farm in Litchfield, where he now resides. Fie married Mary E., daughter of Henry and Mary F. (Stone) Meader, and granddaughter of Henry Meader. Their children are: Mary L., Eliza A., Cora E., Edward F., Almira A., Edwin A., Aura E. and Walter E. Charles T. Hall, born in 1830, is a son of Luther and Eliza (Greeley) Hall, and grandson of Timothy and Abby (Springer) Hall. Timothy came to Litchfield when a young man and settled near where Charles T. now lives. Mr. Hall worked in the ship-yard at Bath, Me., for fif teen years, then moved to Litchfield in May, 1867. From there he went to Massachusetts to work on the Old Colony railroad. In June, 1873, he bought the farm on which his father lived, and has since re sided there. He married Rachel P., daughter of Samuel Coombs, of Brunswick, Me. Their children are: William L., Frank A., Henry T. and an adopted daughter, Mary E. Merrill. Frank A. died at Fox borough, Mass., May 28, 1873, aged eighteen years. Wilson M. Hatten, born in 1823 in Stafford, Conn., is a son of Wil liam M. and Thankful (Mitchell) Hatten, and grandson of Benjamin Hatten. He came to Litchfield in 1854, where he is a farmer. In 1873 he bought the Potter farm, where he now lives. He served in the late war from February to September, 1865, in Company K, 14th 702 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Maine volunteers. His first wife, Achsah Holden, left one son at her death. His second wife was Marcia Crawford. Henry Huntington, born in Monmouth in 1824, is a son of Timothy and Abigail (Hall) Huntington, and grandson of Benjamin and Judith (Collins) Huntington, whose father was among the first settlers of Litchfield. Mr. Huntington is a farmer. He spent twenty years in California prior to 1871. He married Mrs. Martha A. Davis, daughter of David and Eleanor (Marston) True, and granddaughter of Aaron True. Her first husband was John Davis, a son of John Davis. He died in 1872, leaving four children: William E., Fred W., J. Frank (de ceased), and Nellie M. Joseph E. Jack, born in Plymouth, Me., in 1844, is the only son of Joseph and Jane (Libby) Jack, grandson of Joseph and Mary (Gray) Jack, and great-grandson of Andrew Jack. He came to Litchfield in 1850, where he has been a carpenter and farmer. He served in the late war one year in Company F, 24th Maine volunteers. His first marriage was with Alice, daughter of Samuel Mitchell. His present wife was Fannie E. Sprague. Isaac F. Lapham, son of John A. Lapham, was born in Bethel in 1833, and married Eliza R., daughter of Rev. David Ricker, of Wood stock, Me. Their children are: Addie L. and Ernest M. Addie L. married E. T. Packard, son of Marlboro and Mary A. Packard, and they have three children. Ernest married Effie B., daughter of James True. Mr. Lapham came from Augusta to Litchfield in 1876, and in company with his son-in-law bought the Jacob Emmerson farm, where they carry on the farming, nursery and market gardening business. Ernest M., with Mr. Packard, now runs the farm. Nathaniel B. Merchant, son of Captain Jabez and Juda (Bennett) Merchant, was born in 1823 at New Gloucester, Me., came to Gardiner in 1860, and five years later to Litchfield, where he is a farmer. He married Angie C. Stowell, who died in 1886, leaving no issue. Eli Merriman, son of Robert and Clarisa (Douglas) Merriman, and grandson of Walter Merriman, was born in Bowdoin in 1834. He is a carpenter by trade. He served in Company F, 24th Maine volun teers, from August, 1862, one year. In January, 1864, he went to New Hampshire, where he was engaged in the clothing business until August, 1866, when he came to Litchfield, where he has since been a merchant. He has been postmaster since April, 1873. He married Almeda, daughter of Daniel Gilman, and their children are: Viola, James D., Clara D. and Abbie. Charles A. Metcalf, born in 1848, is the eldest of three children of Lorenzo and Mary J. (Weston) Metcalf, and a grandson of Martin and Eliza (Walker) Metcalf, who came from Berry, Mass., to Litch field, where Martin died in 1868, aged 71 years. Mr. Metcalf has filled the offices of selectman, town clerk and justice; and May 4, 1889, TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 703 was appointed postmaster at South Litchfield to succeed Moses True, who was the successor of Augustus Batchelder, the first incumbent of that office. Mr. Metcalf is a farmer on the land which John True cleared from the forest. He was married in 1885 to Lucy A., daugh ter of Moses and Ann (Tucker) True, and granddaughter of John and Sally (West) True. Walden Otis, born in Fairfield in 1827, is a son of Abram W. and Lydia (Hussey) Otis, and grandson of Hezekiah Otis. He came to Litchfield in 1871 from Lewiston, and bought the Rev. William O. Grant farm of one hundred acres, where he has since lived. He mar ried Lucinda, daughter of John Rowe. She died in 1887, leaving one son, Albion P., who married Margaret E. Butler, and has one daugh ter, Edith M. Eliphalet Palmer, born in 1807 and died in 1879, was one of nine children of Marlbury and Martha (Smith) Palmer, who came from Scituate, Mass., to Litchfield in 1790. Mr. Palmer's wife was Lucy P., daughter of Thomas and Mary (Knowlton) Lord, and granddaughter of James Lord. Their children were: Emily F., Thomas M. (de ceased), Frederick E., Granville H. and Lewis M., M. D., who was a graduate of Harvard in 1881. Granville H. was born in 1841, and is a farmer on the farm where Marlbury settled in 1790. He mar ried Eliza, daughter of Erastus B. and Sarah H. (Goddard) Delano. Their children are: Lewis E. and Mary O. Captain Ezekiel Drummond Percy, descended from the Earl of Northumberland, England, was born at Phippsburgh, Me, August 13, 1830. He went to sea when twelve years old, and became master of the ship Courant, in 1851 — Cuba to Hamburg. During the war he was attached to Admiral Farragut's squadron, and was first lieutenant of the ship Huntsville, that took Daniel Sickle to Aspinwall. In 1868 Captain Percy went to Japan, where he was attached to the navy de partment of that nation, as teacher of gunnery and navigation. He was in Japan thirteen years. In 1888 he bought the Union Hotel at Cundy's Harbor, Me., and changed the name to Cliff House, which he still keeps. He married, June 16, 1864, L. O., daughter of Doctor William Cochran. They have one child, S. Lettie. A. Warren Plimpton8, born in 1825, is the eldest of four children of Elias' and Nancy (Billings) Plimpton, whose ancestors were: Asa ", James5, John4, John3, Sergeant John2, John Plimpton1. Mr. Plimpton has two brothers and one sister: Dr. Albert, of Gardiner, George and Maria. Mr. Plimpton is the senior member of the firm of E. Plimpton & Sons, which was established in 1820, when Elias Plimp ton came to Litchfield from Walpole, Mass. He was first married to Harriet E., daughter of Daniel Fuller. She died, leaving one son, Warren O. His present wife was Abbie, daughter of Daniel Gilman. Warren O. Plimpton graduated from Bowdoin College in 1882, and 704 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUXTV. from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, in 1888. He is now practicing medicine and lecturing in sui^ery in the University College of Medicine, New York city. John Purinton, born in 1841 in Bowdoin, is a son of Abel and Mary (Raymond) Purinton, grandson of Abiezer, and great-grandson of Rev. Humphrey Purinton. He was educated in the schools of Bowdoin and at the Litchfield Academy. He taught school eight winters, was thirteen years in the mercantile trade in Richmond, and since 1876 has been a farmer in Litchfield, on a part of the Captain Robert Pat ten farm. He served five years as a justice and four years as select man, two of which he was chairman of that board. He married Mary, daughter of John and Caroline Patten, and granddaughter of Captain Robert Patten. Their children are; Eugene E., John Elmer and Frank W. They lost one, Ernest H. Asa P. Smith lives on the old homestead where his father, Zacha riah B. Smith, who was born on the next farm north, lived and died. Thomas Smith, Asa's grandfather, came to Litchfield from Nova Scotia, whither his father, Thomas, son of John Smith, removed from Cape Cod. Asa P. Smith was married first, to Nancy Shorey, of Litch field, in 1855. She died in 1866. Their only child, Lillian L., gradu ated at Hallowell Classical Institute, and is now teaching in Bismarck, North Dakota. Mr. Smith's second marriage was in 1868, with Anna P. Sylvester, of Bowdoin. They have one child, Warren R. Smith, a graduate of Bowdoin College at the age of twenty, with the highest honors of his class; who is now pursuing a scientific course of study at Clark's University, Worcester, Mass. David Thurston Smith is in the fourth generation from one of several pioneers by the same name, for whom the area of the present town of Litchfield was first called Smithfield. His farm was settled by his great-grandfather, Thomas Smith, who was born in Chatham, Mass., and lived in Nova Scotia before coming to Maine. The earliest record we have of him in Smithfield is on a survey of six adjacent lots, made by John Merrill, " at the request of Benjamin Hinckley, Eliphalet Smith and others," on which Thomas Smith had lot No. 4. Here he brought his family in 1780, one of whom was his son, Thomas, then ten years old, whose son, David, was the father of David Thurston Smith. Both the Thomases were deacons in the church in their day, and were men of genuine qualities. The second Thomas was a man of genial nature, made friends of all, especially the children, was physically robust and active, was a great hunter, killed two bears, en joyed relating his experiences, and in his later years was familiarly and affectionately known as " Uncle Tom." David Smith was born in " Uncle Tom's Cabin " in 1805, o-rew up a farmer, and married, first, Susan Springer. Their children were: Daniel L., Alden B., Sophronia A., David Thurston and Benjamin F. Q}***^ tfjdhJfe c. BIERSTADT, N. Y, TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 705 His second wife's name was Martha J. White, and their children were: Susan S., Bertha A., Mary E. and Thomas F His third wife was Mrs. Sarah Owen, his fourth was Miss Elizabeth Smith, and his last and still surviving wife was Mrs. Mary Baker. David Thurston Smith, the fourth child by his father's first mar riage, was born in 1836, and grew up on the old homestead. At the age of fifteen he was converted, and united with the church six years later. When seventeen years old he joined the Watchman's Club, a temperance order, whose object was to procure the passage of prohib itory laws, and signed the pledge which he has never broken. At the age of twenty-two he went to Massachusetts, where he worked mostly in or near Boston, part of the time in a store, and then as an officer in the House of Correction. In 1863 he was drafted and entered the army in Company K, 11th Maine, which fought under General Butler at the battle of Bermuda Hundred, where he received a gun shot in his right leg, from which he has never recovered. Mr. Smith re ceived his discharge June 1, 1865, returned to Litchfield and resumed farming. Just before going into the army he mar ried Annie M. Kent, of Fa yette, Me., who died in 1872. In 1877 he mar ried his present wife, Ladora J. Malcolm, of Phippsburgh, Me. Mr. Smith was superin tendent of the Sabbath school of the Congre gational church at Litchfield twelve consecutive years, and has long been a deacon in the same church. He is a charter member of the G. A. R. Post, and in politics has always acted with the republican party. The accompanying cut represents the old house built by the pioneer Thomas in 1782, in which all the Smiths named in this sketch have spent part of their lives. It is unoccupied, but its owner considers it a privilege and a pleasure to preserve the walls within which he was born, and to keep renewed the roof that covers a spot radiant with so many precious memories. Three representatives of the Smiths of Litchfield became eminent UNCLE TOM'S CABIN. 706 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. as ministers: Rev. Thomas Smith, who died in 1861, at Brewer, Me.;: Rev. Benjamin Smith, who died while pastor of the Litchfield Congre gational Church, and Rev. Charles B. Smith, now living in Maiden, Mass. George W. Smith is a son of Isaac Smith, whose father, Benjamin Smith, probably came from Cape Cod. Isaac Smith, who died in 1877, at the age of eighty-two, had twelve children, of whom the following are living: Jane, wife of David S. Springer; Mary, widow of David Smith; Almira, now Mrs. W. H. Smith; Lydia, now Mrs. L. S. Larra bee; Hannah D. and George W. All of the persons named, except Benjamin Smith, were born in Litchfield. George W. was brought. up on the old homestead as a farmer, but as a matter of preference became a wood worker and carver, in Lewiston, and has done some thing in sculpture. He made some years ago a marble bust of Mo zart, a plaster bust of his father, Isaac Smith, that is the admiration of all who knew the original; a medallion of Rev. J. T. Hawes; and he carved in wood a strikingly correct bust of Charles Sumner, and one of Doctor Hill, of Lewiston. The clay of which his father's bust is. modeled was taken from the clay bed that furnished the brick of which the house he owns in Litchfield was built. Oramandel Smith, born December 2, 1842, in Aroostook county, Me., is a son of Daniel D. and Lucy (Williams) Smith, and grandson of John, whose father, Eliphalet Smith, was among the early settlers of Litchfield. Mr. Smith came to Litchfield in 1852, where he was educated in the common schools and Litchfield Academy, and at the Classical Institute of Waterville, leaving there at the age of twenty. He began teaching at the age of seventeen and continued twelve winters. He was eleven years supervisor or a member of the school committee. He represented his district in the legislature in 1870 and in June of that year received the appointment of Deputy U. S. Mar shall to take the census in Litchfield. He was assistant clerk of the House in 1874 and 1875, and was promoted to clerk in 1876, which position he held until 1885, except 1879. In April, 1883, he was ap pointed state insurance commissioner, which office he resigned in September of the following year. He was elected secretary of state in 1885, which position he filled with credit to himself for six years. In January, 1891, he was chosen a member of the governor's coun cil. He was married in May, 1875, to Jennie R., daughter of William C. Smith. David S. Springer.— The thorough New England quality of the stock from which David Smith Springer comes is seen by a sino-le glance at his ancestry. His grandfather, David Sprino-er, came from Cape Cod, Mass., to Bowdoinham, Me., and from thence settled in Litchfield. Thomas Springer, David's son, the father of David S. Springer, married Elizabeth, daughter of the second Thomas Smith, *^L PRINT, BIER8TADT, n. TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 707 of Litchfield, whose ancestors were also natives of Cape Cod. The children of Thomas and Elizabeth Springer were: George W., David S. and Sophronia, who died young. David S. was born December 3, 1822, in Litchfield, where he passed his boyhood days on his father's farm, treading the familiar old path, monotonous at times, but always invigorating and safe, as it alternates from the winter school, with the inevitable morning and evening chores, to the tiresome routine of the summer's farm work. After the district school came several terms at the Litchfield Academy, and then David S., in 1844, found a wife in the person of Jane M.r daughter of Isaac Smith, whose father, Benjamin Smith, came to Litch field in 1781, and was a brother of the first Thomas Smith, who was the grandfather of David S. Springer's mother. David and Jane have had one child, Isaac T. Mr. vSpringer has not been permitted to pass the whole of his time or to devote the whole of his energies to agricultural pursuits,. although farming has been his life-long avocation. He was chosen one of the selectmen of Litchfield in 1867 and was reelected each of the following two years. In 1871 he was again elected a selectmen, also in 1872, '73, '75 and '76. For a long term of years he held some one of the minor offices of the town. In 1882 he was elected town treasurer, in which office he is now serving his eleventh year. In 1879 he was elected to the legislature and belonged to the famous and never-to-be-forgotten "count out" session. In the course of his duties Mr. Springer served on the agricultural and the leave of ab sence committees. Now, at the well rounded age of three score and ten, he is in the enjoyment of good health, the society of his excel lent wife in a pleasant and happy home, and has the priceless con sciousness of having passed an honorable and useful life. Thomas Harvey Springer, born in 1808, was a son of James and Bet sey (Collins) vSpringer and grandson of David Springer, who came from Bowdoinham and was one of the first settlers in Litchfield. Mr. Springer was a farmer and died in 1880. He married Sarah Hunting ton, sister of Henry Huntington. She survives him. Of their eight children three are living: Luetta A., James P. and Emlem P., who, with his mother, occupies the farm of his father and grandfather, Isaac Starbird, born in Bowdoin in 1799, was a son of Moses Star- bird, who was for many years a merchant at Bowdoin. Mr. Starbird came to Litchfield Corners in 1837 and bought the store of Lorenzo Dailey, who was the successor of William Robinson, Esq. He con tinued in mercantile trade from November of that year until his death in 1883. His son, James W., who had been a partner in the business since 1867, has continued the business since that time in the same firm name — Isaac Starbird & Son. Isaac Starbird was postmaster from 1861 to 1873. He married Sarah, daughter of Moses Dennett. His 708 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. children were: Charles D., deceased; Isaac W., M.D., who graduated at Bowdoin College, went into the late war as captain, was promoted to the rank of colonel, and is now practicing medicine in Boston; James Wilbur, Herbert M. and Margaret E. (Mrs. Samuel Woodard); and Eugene C, by second wife. James W. married Barbara E., daughter of Melvin P. and granddaughter of Esquire William Robin son. They have one daughter, Angie S. Herbert M. Starbird, son of Isaac and Sarah (Dennett) Starbird, was born October 2, 1847. He served in the late war in Company M, D. C. Cavalry, from March to September of 1864, when he was trans ferred to Company D, 1st Maine Cavalry, serving until August, 1865, when he was discharged as sergeant. He married Annie F., only daughter of Melvin Harrison aud Betsey M. (Adams) True, and grand daughter of Daniel True, who married Sally (West), widow of John True. Mr. Starbird is a farmer and with his father-in-law owns and occupies the Batchelder tavern, which Mr. True bought in 1867, when he returned from Massachusetts, where he had lived since 1831. Henry Taylor, who has for the last twenty years been identified with the schools of Litchfield and vicinity both as an officer and a teacher, is a native of Virginia and was two years in the Union army before coming to Maine. He was a pupil in the schools of Gardiner and Richmond prior to 1867 and a student at Yarmouth Academy prior to 1872, when he began teaching. His wife, Maryetta T., is a daughter of Samuel and Maryetta (Thompson) Goodwin. Their chil dren are: Henry W., Carleton L., Amy I., and AValter G., deceased. George Nelson Thurlow, born in 1834, is the eighth child of John and Sally (Flagg) Thurlow and a grandson of John Thurlow, who came from Berwick, Me, to Litchfield about 1804, and settled near where Mr. Thurlow now lives. His father was Stephen Thurlow. George N. is a farmer, as were his father and grandfather. He served the last two years of the civil war, first in Company F, 7th Maine Volunteers, and later in the 1st Maine Veterans. His wife, Emma W., is a daughter of James and Julia A. (Aldrich) Morse, and granddaugh ter of James Morse. Their children are: George A. and Harry H. Eben Toothaker was brought by his parents, Cornelius and Hannah (Gray) Toothaker, when less than six months old, to Litchfield, from Harpswell, Me., in 1817, he being the third of eleven children. When grown he learned the ship carpenter's trade and worked in Richmond and Bowdoinham. In 1844 he married Martha O. Williams, of Bow doinham, by whom he had three boys and one girl, Mary, now the wife of John Hutchinson. His son, Fonzo J. Toothaker, married Mary Schroder, of Chicago. Eben Toothaker built in 1850, the house in which he has since lived. He has always been an active republican, and has been postmaster twenty-one years, keeping the office in his house at Litchfield Plains. TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 709 Jesse T. True is a son of Woodman True, who died in 1867, and grandson of Aaron True, who came to Litchfield from Massachusetts. Woodman True married Lucy Tucker in 1831. They had two chil dren — Jesse T. and Helen, who married Jabez Plummer. Jesse T. was born in Litchfield in 1832, and has always been a farmer. In 1860 he married Elizabeth Cushing, of Freeport, born in 1836. Their chil dren are: Fannie W., now a school teacher at Litchfield Corners; Ed ward M., who lives in Massachusetts, and Nathan C, at home. Merrill True, born in 1832, is one of three children of Aaron and Mary (Merrill) True, grandson of Aaron and Martha (Woodman) True, and great-grandson of Thomas True, who lived and died in Salisbury, Mass., and had five sons and two daughters, who came to Litchfield. Mr. True is a farmer on the south half of the three hundred acre farm where his grandfather settled when he came to the town. He married M. Ellen, daughter of Horace Moore. Their children are: Stanley M. and Sally H. Thomas True, son of Thomas and Parmelia (Parker) True, married Mariam Eaton. Their children were: Bradbury E., Almira, Emery P. and Albert C. The youngest of these was born in 1843. He served one year in the. late war in Company E, 23d Maine volunteers. He has taught thirty-four terms of school, has been a member of the school committee several years, and two years school supervisor. He is a farmer, and occupies the farm of his father, with his elder brother and sister, Emery P. and Almira. He married M. Viola, daughter of Joel Card, of Bowdoinham, Me. John W. Tucker, born in 1854, is the youngest of three children of John and Rhoda J. (Jack) Tucker, and grandson of Jesse and Rebecca (Fisher) Tucker. Mrs. Rhoda J. Tucker died in January, 1886. Mr. Tucker carries on the farm where his father lived from 1840 until his death, in 1885. He married Carrie M., daughter of William H. Wood bury. Their children are: George, Sarah W., Dexter B., Ralph, Lucena M., John R., Fred W. and Estelle. George Webber, a son of George and grandson of Richard Web ber, was born in Richmond, Me., in 1811. His father served seven years in the revolutionary war. His wife, Rebecca (married in 1836), is a daughter of Benjamin and Margaret (Curtis) Merriman, and grand daughter of Walter Merriman, of Harpswell, Me. Their children are: Reuel S., Adaline C, Rebecca A., Mary E., Sophronia H., Arista, Thirza E., George F., Pauline S., Nellie E. and Charles H., who mar ried Lillian M. Maxwell, and now lives with his parents on the home stead farm. He has one son, Milton E. David G. Wilson, one of four children of Nehemiah and Alice (Davis) Wilson, was born in 1826. He is a farmer and mechanic. He married Martha A., daughter of Andrew, and granddaughter of Simeon 710 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Goodwin, who came from Pittston to Litchfield in 1795. Her mother was Margaret Clifford. Charles H. Waldron, son of Charles D. and Julia A. (Allen) Wal dron, was born in 1841. He has been employed by the E. Plimpton & Sons Manufacturing Company since 1863, with the exception of the years 1867, '68 and '69. His wife, Margaret A. Goodwin, is a sister of Mrs. Wilson, above. John Woodbury was born in Litchfield, Me, August 10, 1818, and died on the 25th of February, 1882. Through nearly all his life he was an influential and useful citizen, always interested for the best interests of his native town, which he served many years in official capacity, as appears from the preceding records. His parents were Hugh Woodbury, born in Danville, Me, in 1780, and Elizabeth (Plum mer) Woodbury, born in 1788. They came from Danville to Litchfield in 1806, and bought 225 acres on the south line of the SawTyer Tract, where Thomas Davis, a " squatter," had built a log habitation. Here their ten children were born: William, the eldest, was born in 1812 and died in 1820; Susan, born 1814, died 1886; Abigail, born 1816, died 1825; Hannah, born 1821, died 1851; Mary Ann, born 1824, married Jesse Davis, of Lisbon, and has two children — Emma and Louisa Davis; Hugh, born 1822, died 1825; Benjamin, born December 29, 1826; Sarah, born 1829, died 1856; Horatio, the youngest of the ten, was born in 1831. He read law with Samuel Titcomb, practiced in Hallowell, Me, also in Kentucky and in Leavenworth, Indiana. He was a soldier — lieutenant colonel of the 35th Indiana Cavalry — and ¦died in 1881. Thus Benjamin Woodbury, of Litchfield, and Mrs. Davis, of Lisbon, are the only survivors of this large family. The name originated in Cheshire county, England, but the family records only extend to Hugh Woodbury's father, True Woodbury, who was born in Massachusetts January 15, 1756, and died in Danville, Me., April 28, 1828. As a family, by industry and economy, they acquired a good property on their farm in Litchfield. John Woodbury, perhaps the best known of his generation, gave more careful attention to books. He became a practical surveyor, was representative from Litchfield in 1854, '57 and '75, and in 1876 was elected to the state senate. During his active life no man in Litch field was more frequently consulted upon business matters, and such men as Doctor Kindrick and David Springer say that no man's in fluence was more widely felt in the political affairs of the town. He was never married, and when his usefulness was ended and death fol lowed, Litchfield found that men were very scarce who could fill the place which was once so ably filled by John Woodbury.* William Wyman, born in South China, May 15, 1823, is a son of *The fine engraving accompanying this sketch is a fitting tribute to his mem- • ory by his only surviving brother. 3-2^2 / />** &-& cY TOWN OF LITCHFIELD. 711 Ezekiel and Mary (Libby) Wyman, grandson of Ezekiel and Mary (Bran) Wyman, and great-grandson of Francis Wyman. Mr. Wyman was for several years prior to 1860 engaged in the business of tanner and currier. He came to Litchfield in 1860 from Troy, Me., and has since been a farmer, excepting one year, during which he served in the late war with Company F, 24th Maine volunteers. His wife is Catherine, daughter of Jesse and Esther B. (Work) Young, and grand daughter of Solomon Young. Their children are: George A., Mary E. (deceased), Frank C, Clara E. (deceased), Flora A. (Mrs. S. L. Gowell), and Etta M. Frank C. Wyman, son of William Wyman, was born in the town of Troy in 1853. In addition to operating his farm, Mr. Wyman is a wagon maker, at which he works in his own shops in the cold part of the year. In 1882 he married Thirsa E., daughter of George and Re- •becca Webber. Their children are: Alice E., Jesse L. and Herbert S. CHAPTER XXVII. TOWN OF PITTSTON. Erection of Old Pittston.— Settlement.— Pioneers.— Development. — Villages. — Chief Localities.— Civil History.— Town Officers.— Churches. — Schools.— Cemeteries. — Personal Paragraphs. THE original town of Pittston included Gardiner and West Gar diner on the west side of the Kennebec, and Pittston and Ran dolph on the east side. In 1670 Alexander Brown settled in old Pittston, but was killed by Indians in 1676. In 1751 Captain John North laid out the town in lots, and in 1754 a few settlers made their appearance. Settlements were made on both sides of the river as early as 1760, and the entire territory of the four towns was comprised in the plantation of Gardinerston, so named in honor of Dr. Sylvester Gardiner, who in 1754 received large tracts within the domain and later was instrumental in inducing settlers to emigrate thither. In February, 1779, the territory mentioned, with the exception of lots 5, 6, 7, 8. 9 and 10, on the south edge of the west side, which were joined to Bowdoinham, was incorporated into a town called Pittston. It was at first proposed to call the new town Gardiner, but the attitude of Doctor Gardiner during the revolution debarred him from this honor, and it was named for the Pitt family — Hon. John Pitt having, in 1779, introduced the bill for its incorporation in the legislature. The first town meeting was held in the inn of Henry Smith, on the east side of the river (known as Smithtown in the present Pittston), from which the ferry was run for many years. For twenty-four years the territory as first incorporated remained a single town, but in 1803 all the tract west of the river was set off to form the then new town of Gardiner. The region comprised in the present town of Pittston is the most southern of Kennebec county, east of the river. It is bounded by the town of Dresden on the south; Alna and Whitefield on the east; Chelsea and Randolph, the new town more recently erected from Pittston, on the north; and Kennebec river on the west. Settlers.— The first settlers made their clearings along the river. Henry Smith located in 1764 on the west side of the river, and Au gust 5, 1772, he moved to the east side and settled above Agry's point, opening the first inn of the town. Thomas Agry came to the point which still bears his name — where the ice houses of the Independent TOWN OF PITTSTON. 713 Ice Company stand — in 1774. Here were built the first vessels above Bath. Seth Soper settled, in 1779, next to Agry, and William and Moses Springer took up land near Agry's point about the same time. In 1761, four brothers, Reuben, Jeremiah, Oliver and Benjamin Col burn, settled above Agry's, and formed a settlement then known as Colburntown. Here they built vessels, and where the late Gustavus A. Colburn resided, Major Colburn, his grandfather, constructed the bateaux for the Arnold expedition to Quebec, the beautiful growth of white oaks that covered the bank of the river making it a most suitable spot for the work. He was assisted in his labors by the Agrys, Edward Fuller and others, all settlers on the river. William Barker settled in 1780 and opened an early store near Wil liam B. Grant's. He sold four settlers' lots, in 1781, to Eleazar Tar- box, who, fifty-one years afterward, was buried on the land. Edward Fuller, about 1760, settled on the farm now occupied by his grandson, Benjamin F. Fuller. Next north of this Nathaniel Bailey settled in 1762; and later, next north of his lot, Frederick Jackins settled. In 1787 David Mooers settled on the lands of George A. Yeaton. Next south of Edward Fuller was the clearing of Abner Marson, made in 1768. Marson was subsequently captured and carried away by the Indians. Henry Bodge settled early next below Marson's; and below Bodge lived Dea. Elijah Jackson, who settled in 1781. Hubbard Eastman settled below, next to Jackson's. On this lot are the Pebble hills, where a hole eighty feet deep was made in digging for gold. Search for tbe precious metal was prosecuted nearly every summer for many years, but without substantial results. In 1763 Martin Haley bought one hundred acres next below East man, in the southwestern corner of the town, and here was raised the first English hay of the town. Up the river Samuel Oakman, a ship builder, settled in 1772, and near Smith's Hotel John and Henry No ble settled. John Taggart bought a farm, in 1773, of Major Reuben Colburn; and after the revolutionary war Levi Shepherd settled where John F. Bragden lives. The west side of the town, along the Kennebec river, was of the most importance in those early days. Shipbuilding was carried on at every available place along the river; a ferry was run from near Smith's tavern, to the opposite side of the river; and the tavern itself was the central gathering place for town meetings well into the present century. On the uplands the early settlers found an abundance of oak, and in the intervales, pine, from which vessels were made, and of which large quantities were rafted to other localities. The first saw mill and the first grist mill stood at the mouth of Nehumkeag creek. They were owned and run by Edward Lawrence and Franklin Flitner. 46 714 HISTORY OF kennebec county. The service of these important mills was continued into and during the first quarter of the present century. After the separation, in 1803, the present Pittston increased rapidly in business and population. The tax list of 1803 will show the resi dents of that date, many of them being the descendants of pioneers. The list included Thomas Freeman, Dennis Gould, Charles Glidden, Arnold Glidden, Joseph Green, Freeborn Groves, Susannah Hunt, Betsey Haley, Martin Haley, Nathaniel Haley, Nathaniel Hall, Wil liam Hanover, William Hanover, jun., Silas Hunt, Ephraim Hatch, Jedediah Jewett, Charles Osgood, Samuel Oakman, Esq., Samuel Oak- man, jun., Robert McKnight, Samuel Marson, Samuel Marson, jun., William Moody, Scribner Moody, David Moore, George Marson, Ste phen Marson, Abner Marson, Abner Marson, jun., Trustam Mores, John Law, Jacob Loud, Peleg Loud, Elihu Loud, Samuel Little, James Laplane, Roger Lapham, Abiathar Kendall, Jonathan Jewett, Daniel JewTett, Enoch Jewett, Samuel Jones, Benjamin Jackson, Thomas Jack son, Christopher Jackins and his son of the same name, James Jack- ins, Andrew Johnson, James and Levi Johnson, Samuel Cutts, Wil liam Stevens, Leonard Cooper, Joseph Colman, Richard Cookson, Isaac Clark, Burnham Clark, Eldred Crowell, Reuben Colburn, Benjamin and Joseph Colburn, William Church, Samuel Clark, Richard Calvert, Thomas Coss, Widow Margaret Colburn, Captain Oliver Colburn, Jacob Daniells, Ezra Davis, Samuel Davis, James Dudley, Alvan Dim- mick, Hobart Eastman, Judah Eldred, Micah Eldred, Francis Flitner, Joseph and Benjamin Flitner, Benjamin Follensbie, Edward Fuller, Edward Palmer, Samuel Palmer, Jeremiah and James Pickard, Benja min Pulsifer, Joseph Pulsifer, jun., Joseph, James and David Rawlings, Stephen Rowe, Obadiah Read, Isaac Read, Henry Smith, George Standley, John Stephens, Levi Shepherd, Henry Smith, jun., John, James and Jeremiah Smith, Seth Soper's heirs, Caleb Stephens and son Caleb, Daniel Scott, Alexander Troop, John and Robert Taggard, Sam uel Thomas, Simeon Town, Benjamin Trask, Jonathan Winslow, David Young and his son David, Hannah Agry, a widow, Captain David Agry, Widow Hannah Bailey, Nathaniel Bailey and son Nathaniel, David Bailey, Henry Bodge, John Barker, Jonathan and William Blanchard, John Bailey, Nathan Bailey, jun., Peter Benner and Joseph Blodgett. In 1803 the poll list bore the names of Henry Adams, Ebenezer Blodgett, Bisbee Boulton, Rufus Cushman, Daniel Davis, Samuel Dud ley, Oliver Foster, John Follensbie, Samuel Follensbie, Daniel Fol lensbie, Jedediah Cowin, Simeon Cunningham, John C. Gookin, Wil liam Hatch, Seth Hunt, Paul Home, Thomas Mead, Benjamin Mar son, David Philbrooks, Samuel Tarbox, Joseph Trask, David and John White, John Robertson and Mr. Nowal. These old men, young men and widows of old settlers were scat- TOWN OF PITTSTON. 715 tered among the hills and valleys of Pittston in 1803, and their de scendants occupy many of the lands then assessed. The community lived near to nature's heart in those bygone days, and obtained the larger share of their food supply from the virgin soil of the clearings, from the forests abounding with game, and from waters teeming with fish. Indeed, fish were so plentiful, especially alewives, in the brook running from Nehumkeag pond, and in the Togus stream, that for domestic use it was only necessary to shove them out into dishes. Nehumkeag pond, lying nearly in the center of the town, covers 175 acres, and this, with Joy's pond, in the northeast corner, are the ¦only ponds of considerable extent in the town. Besides the streams already mentioned there are Eastman, Bailey, Blair and Follensbie creeks. These empty into the Kennebec, and were named from the settlers on their banks, who could not have selected a better site, the soil being a rich, clayey loam, and well watered. Besides the streams mentioned, the Eastern river, entering from Whitefield, passes through the eastern part of the town, southerly, and empties into the Kennebec at Dresden. At the point where this river leaves Pittston it measures twenty-three rods from bank to bank, and the tides from the Kennebec set up into Pittston three miles. The early increase in the wealth of the town was phenomenal. In 1820 the statistics for Pittston showed 446 acres under cultivation, 1,747 of meadow, 1,613 acres of pasture, 2,061 bushels of corn, 870 of wheat, 222 of oats, 101 of barley, 86 of peas, and 1,511 tons of hay; the statistics also showed 176 barns, 478 cows, 278 oxen, 116 horses and 251 swine. There were then 633 tons of shipping owned in the town. Town meetings had been held at the inn of Henry Smith for sev eral years, but when the old Congregational church was sold to the town, in 1820, religious and town meetings were held in that build ing. This old church, which stood where the hearse house now stands, on G. A. Colburn 's farm, was begun by Major Colburn and ¦others in 1788, but the society was unable to finish it, and it was used by the town as above stated until 1846, when it was again sold, and tradition says it is now in part doing service as a barn for Mrs. E. H. Lapham, near Grange Hall. Subsequent to 1846 a town house was erected at Beech hill, and was used until a few years ago, when it was sold to George Stanley, upon whose land it stood. In 1884 the town rented, for one year, the lower part of Grange Hall for a town hall, and in 1886 the use of Grange Hall for town meetings and selectmen's office was resumed. The first few years after Gardiner was separated from Pittston the latter town maintained its pound in various farm barn-yards. In 1815 it was " voted to use Abiathar Kendall's barn-yard for a pound, and he be the pound master." In 1818 not only Kendall, but Obadiah Reed and William Stevens were appointed pound masters, and the 716 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. barn-yards of these men were the legal pounds. Later a pound, sur rounded by a stone fence, was erected, but it has been abandoned for years. The peculiarities of the Pittston settlers may be inferred from the vote of the town in 1791, when forty-five votes against and five for making Maine an independent state were cast. In the same year a like peculiarity was displayed when, the small pox having broken out seriously, the town voted that " It was not expedient to inoculate for the disease." In 1807 the town was again opposed to erecting Maine into a separate state; and in 1808 the town meeting refused to peti tion the president to remove the embargo, but passed resolutions to uphold the government and the president. The assistance of the general court was asked, in 1811, to place in order a bridge over Togus creek, and a township of land was granted for the purpose. The bridge was repaired and placed in use at an expense of $18,000. Active measures were taken relative 'to the sale of liquor in 1833, no licenses being granted, and a committee appointed to prosecute all violations.The poor of the town have never been numerous and are perhaps less than in many others of the same population. In 1819 only one — a poor woman — was the care of the town, and her keeping for a year was bid off at forty-six cents per week by a farmer. For years the poor were bid off in like manner; but prior to 1860 the town pur chased a farm of sixty-five or seventy acres, of the heirs of Alexander Troop, on Beech hill, where these unfortunates have been since kept. North Pittston. — The post-village of North Pittston is beauti fully situated in the northeast corner of the town, and was early a central location for that portion of the community. It was usually called Colburn's Corners, having been settled by George Colburn, on the land where James Crowell now resides. Reuben Freeman was another settler, where John McGlugen lives. John Barker settled next below, on the land now owned by John Dunn. An old settler was a Mr. Crowell, where Washington Lawrence recently lived. Cap tain Micah Eldredge settled where Joseph Kenny dwells; Dennis Gould made his clearing on the spot now occupied by Frederick Gould, and Joseph Kidder settled where George Putman resides. In olden time Colburn's Corners was a lively center. In the school house ministers discoursed and singing schools were held. There was a potash factory where Isaac Green lives, and John Barker had a saw mill upon a stream there; but nothing is left of either building now. George Colburn's shoe shop was the first store established, and Gor ham Jewett opened the next store. About 1860 Joseph G. Colburn started a store which, during the war, he disposed of; then Fred P. Morrill, who had been burned out of a small store in 1888, built and opened his present store in 1889, in which he keeps the post office. town of pittston. 717 Of the other old enterprises here were the inn of James Crowell, an early settler, and the shoe shop of Daniel Kelly, another early settler where James Ware lives. North and East Pittston possessed shipping advantages that were in themselves modest and laborious; but the lumber, hay, shingles and other products found their way to the outside world by hauling them to the Eastern river, one mile south of East Pittston, where the tide enabled boats to land and load with goods to be conveyed to the schooners at the Dresden landing. This carry-way is still used for the shipment of heavy goods down and up the stream. April 15, 1850, a post office was established at North Pittston and Jesse Gould was appointed postmaster. He was succeeded October 18, 1883, by Benjamin B. Hanson, and he, September 25, 1885, by Fred P. Morrill, who still keeps it in his store. East Pittston. — In the eastern part of the town is East Pittston, a considerable post-village. It is pleasantly situated in the valley of the Eastern river, and enjoys in itself all the comforts of a New Eng land village. It was early settled, on account of the fertility of the soil and superior mill advantages. Among the first dwellers there were the Dudleys and Burnham Clark, and just below, at the landing, was the Call family. Harrison Hunt owns the Call's landing farm now; it is the head of navigation on the Eastern river. The stream furnished power for mills, and very early the Dudleys had a saw mill near where the road from Beech hill crosses the stream. This was called the upper mill, while just below was the middle mill, to which, on the south side, was added a grist mill by James Cunningham. Another saw mill, further down, and owned by Obadiah Reed, was known as the lower mill; and a pail factory, owned by Eliakim Scam mon, was on the north side. A box factory, run by Jonathan Young, was near the middle mill. These mills were in their day run con stantly, a ready sale being found for their products; but the bare rocks in the bed of the stream, and the suggestive sites for power, are all that remain of the busy past. Stores sprang up, the first within the remembrance of the oldest of the present denizens being that of Jonathan Young, built about 1835. After a few years James Norris purchased the business, took Isaac Reed as partner, and three years later sold out to Henry Dearborn, who dis posed of the store to the firm of Cate & Alley. Five years later this firm sold out to Lorenzo S. Clark, who took George W. Mansir as partner. At the death of Mansir, a score of years after, the business was con ducted by Lorenzo S. Clark, until 1889, when he sold to Henry A. Clark, his son. About 1830 Henry Trundy kept a store where Henry Knight lives. Thomas Eldredge was an old trader in a building where now stands the barn of the Rundlett estate. David Crowell became a partner after a few years. The stores of three-fourths of a 718 history of kennebec county. century ago sold rum, then an important item of trade, and this firm sold in one winter over fifty hogsheads. The lumbermen of the time were the principal purchasers. Isaac Reed started a store where Alonzo McDonald lives, and his " dry goods " was also rum. Just prior to 1840 strenuous measures were taken by the town to stop the retail of liquor within its borders, since which time fortunes have not been made by its sale. Other branches of business naturally sprang up here, prominent among which was the manufacture of carriages by Howard Lampson, in 1850. He was the, successor of John Boynton. Lampson sold to Frederick W. Mansir, in 1870. The factory was then where the store of E. E. Hanley was later; but in 1875 Mansir erected the present fac tory and moved thereto. He has added other buildings as needed, and all the branches of the sleigh and carriage business find room here. Another and new feature of business — the creamery — was insti tuted here in 1890, by over one hundred of the farming community. It was successfully conducted during the season of 1890, and in April, 1891, Edward E. Hanley took the entire control of the business. The creamery is on Solomon Hopkins' land, and is run by steam power. William S. Cleaves keeps a general store. He bought the build ing now in use as a store in 1871, and put in a stock, which he subse quently sold to Edward E. Hanley, who remained in the same store for two years, and then fitted a building a few rods to the south, into which he moved. In 1890 he sold the balance of his stock to Cleaves and went out of the mercantile business. Mr. Cleaves stocked this store, and continuing also in his former store. December 9, 1820, a post office was established here, with Jonathan Young as postmaster. James Norris, jun., succeeded him, April 22, 1832, and William Kendall was appointed in the following March. Cyrus Rundlett was postmaster from June, 1836, to April, 1846, when Joel Johnson served until his death, six months later, whereupon Eliakim Scammon was appointed, keeping the office at his residence, where Frank Leonard now lives. He was succeeded, April 10, 1855, by Dr. Harrison Small, in the Cyrus Rundlett house, and he, on Au gust 7, 1861, by George W. Mansir, jun., who held the office 16| years. Lorenzo S. Clark was the next postmaster, keeping the office at his store. Thomas Hanley was appointed January 20, 1886, and the pres ent incumbent, Henry A. Clark, was appointed April 4, 1889, and keeps the office at his store. The meeting house of the East Parish, Methodist church, is located here. Beech Hill is a so-called locality just north of the center of the town, where the town house one stood, and the old stone pound is yet to be seen, though in a dilapidated condition. Doors and town of pittston. 719 even hinges may be removed by the lapse of threescore years; but the stone fence, four feet thick at the base and tapering up seven feet, may yet remain for many years to show the characteristics of the an cestors of present generations. Jonathan Jewett was one of the first to start his clearing on Beech hill, and the settlement was contemporaneous with that of Ebenezer Byram and Major Seth Gay, who cleared the first farm of the town, on Togus stream, on the road to the meadows. Other Localities. — The river road running the length of the town, is a beautiful drive through a rich, thickly settled district, with many historic spots on either side. Here was Colburntown, above Smith's tavern, where Jeremiah. Reuben (who was such an earnest Congrega tionalist), Oliver and Benjamin Colburn settled in 1761, also their four sisters — Lucy, Sarah Elizabeth, Hannah and Rachel Colburn. Below was Henry Smith's tavern, early and opportune built, where the town meetings of Old Pittston were held for so many years. The hogs heads of rum dealt out there have not been lost in tradition. Still further below was Agry's point, where Arnold's bateaux were built for transporting troops and stores up the river; and down along the street, winding with the river, cluster many other spots of early interest. After Randolph was erected another post office, named Pittston, was established, April 16, 1887, and Edward A. Lapham was appointed postmaster. He now keeps it at his store, having been reappointed July 15, 1889. Edward M. Morton was made postmaster in August, 1887, and kept the office nearly two years in his store lower down the road. Mr. Morton built and started his store in 1883, which he still continues; and Edward A. Lapham's store is the outgrowth of the Grange store, the stock of which he purchased in 1887, and removed to his present building. On the Nehumkeag stream, besides the grist mill and saw mill mentioned, James La Plane, an early setter, had a tannery. A ferry was kept up just below Smith's tavern for many years, and the water front, over seven miles along the Kennebec, was an important part of the town. Shipbuilding was extensively carried on at the points where are now immense ice houses, as more fully appears in a previous chapter. In this part of the town is a very flourishing Grange — Pittston, No. 214 — organized March 3, 1876. Meetings were held at East Pittston for three years, when a suitable hall was erected near J. B. Ripley's place. Soon after the organization was effected the Grange opened a store, keeping goods at two places; but when the hall was built, in 1880, a store was established there. The Grange, seventy-six in num ber, meets in the hall on the second floor of their building, the town using the first floor. The presiding officers have been: E. H. Lapham, 720 history of kennebec county. J. M. Carpenter, J. B. Ripley, M. J. Donnell, J. A. Kenney and John Scott. Civil Lists.— The first pages of the original town records have been lost or destroyed. The oldest volume contains the record of the town meeting of 1782, which was held at the " Dwelling house of Cap'n Henry Smith, Innholder, June 6th, at 5 o'clock in the after noon." Reuben Colburn was the moderator at that and the two fol lowing meetings. From then until 1803 six other men, at various times, were moderators: Samuel Oakman, first in 1784, served 10 times; Henry Dearborn, 1785, served 9 times; Jedediah Jewett, 1791, 12 times; Jeremiah Dudley, 1792, twice; Thomas Agry, in 1794, and B. Gannett, from 1797 until the separation, in 1803. Let the reader understand that Pittston then also comprised Randolph, Gardiner and West Gardiner, and that from 1803 until 1887 Randolph was included in Pittston, and no confusion need arise from the localities in which the officers resided. For the management of its civil affairs three selectmen were annu ally elected by the town, and much was left to their discretion. Roads were laid out and accepted until, in a town five miles by less than eight in extent there were over fifty miles of public thoroughfares. Two parishes were formed of the town in 1810, called East parish and West parish. The best men have been kept in the proper offices, and Pittston has steadily grown from its primitive condition to a town of wealth and power. The Selectmen* and their number of years of service, seldom con secutive, have been: Nathaniel Berry, 1781; Henry Smith, 1781; Benjamin Colburn, 1781; Thomas Agry, 1783; Seth Soper, 1783, 2 years; Samuel Berry, 1783; David Lawrence, 1784; Henry Dearborn, 1785, 4; Samuel Oakman, 1784, 14; Silas Clark, 1785, 3; William Bar ker, 1786, 2; Samuel Dudley, 1788, 7; Jedediah Jewett, 1790, 9; David Young, 1790, 3; Barzillai Gannett, 1793, 7; Peter Grant, 1795; Reuben Colburn, 1798; John Agry, Reuben Moor and Isaac Clark, 1799, 1800; Caleb Stevens, jun., 1801, 11; Oliver Currier, 1801; Abiathar Kendall, 1802, 8; David Crowell, 1803, 3; David Agry, 1804, 3; Thomas Eldred, 1806, 4; Thomas Coss, 1808, 13; Eli Young, 1812, 22; Noah Loud, 1815, 1816; Joseph Blish, jun., 1818, 6; George Williamson, 1820, 12; Henry Dearborn, 1825, 3; Samuel Clark, 1826; William Stevens and John Blanchard, 1827, 1828; George Jewett, 1829, 11; Charles Loud, 1829, 6; William Troop and James Harris, 1832; John A. Colburn, 1833; Gideon Barker, 1836, 3; Benjamin Flitner, 1836, 7; George W. Mansir, 1836,2; Dudley Young and Moses B. Bliss, 1839, 1840; Moses Harris, 1842; *Not only are the first pages of the original records lost, but for several years between 1860 and 1870 there appears to be no official record with the offi cers of the town, showing who the selectmen and treasurers were. With that exception the succeeding lists are complete. TOWN OF PITTSTON. 721 Cyrus Rundlett, 1843, 6; John Y. Kendall and Eliakim Scammon, 1844; John E. Merrill and Joel Johnson, 1845; John Coss, 1846, 9; Benjamin F. Fuller, 1848, 5; Augustus L. Call, 1850, 2; Jonathan Clark, 1852, 2; George Williamson, 1851, 2; Amos Merrill, 1853; David M.Cunning ham, 1853, 2; Benjamin Flitner, 1854, 2; Luther Thomas, 1856; James M. Merrill, 1856, 2; George W. Mansir, jun., 1856, 2; Abiel V. Good win, 1857, 4; Robert Hanley, 1858, 5; Wesley Young, 1859; Alphonso H. Clark,- 1860, 8; Samuel S. Ayer, 1860; Seth Palmer, 1861; Asbury Young, 1862, 4; James M. Carpenter, 1866; E. H. Lapham, 1871; Wil liam Grant, 1871, 2; Eben Day, 1872; John Frost, 1873, 2; John Scott, 1873, 4; Cyrus Rundlett, 1873; Lorenzo S. Clark, 1874, 2; B. Flitner, 1875, 2; C. H. Dunton, 1876, 3; Daniel Glidden, 1877, 8; D. H. Moody. 1877, 6; A. Williams, 1879; S. A. Jewett, 1880, 4; H. H. Cary, 1883, 3; Benjamin F. Fuller, 1883, 6; J. R. Goodwin, 1885; Moses J. Donnell, 1885. 4; F. H. Mooers, 1885; J. B. Ripley, 1886, 2; F. G. Sherman, 1886; Francis Nash, 1887; George W. Palmer, 1888, 2; E. E. Hanley, 1890, 2. The Treasurers of Pittston, each serving until his successor's elec tion, have been: Samuel Oakman, 1783; Henry Smith, 1788; William Barker, 1789; Jedediah Jewett, 1797; Seth Gay, 1798; Rufus Gay, 1802; Samuel Oakman, 1803; David Agry, 1804; Samuel Oakman, 1807; Daniel Jewett, 1809; Abiathar Kendall, 1812; Eli Young, 1814; Rufus Gay, 1822; Henry Dearborn, 1830; Stephen Young, 1832; Henry Dear born, 1834; Gideon Barker, 1835; William Stevens, 2d, 1836; Alphonso H. Clark, 1840; Eliakim Scammon, 1844; Benjamin F. Jones, 1847; A. V. Goodwin, 1860; Gideon Barker, 1866; William Grant, 1867; F. G. Sherman, 1872; L. W. Goodspeed, 1873; J. R. Goodwin, 1877; L. W. Goodspeed, 1879; J. R. Goodwin, 1880; John F. Brookings, 1882; L. W. Goodspeed, 1885; G. P. Jewett, 1886; and H. A. Clark since 1887. The succession of Clerks begins with William Wilkins, in 1782, followed by William Barker, in 1783; Thomas Philbrook and Jedediah Jewett, 1788; William Barker, 1789; Seth Gay, 1791; Barzillai Gan nett, 1794; Seth Gay, 1795; Nathaniel Hall, 1803; Benjamin Jackson, 1809; Noah Loud, 1814; Eli Young, 1816; Henry Dearborn, 1825; Daniel Sewall, 1829; Hiram Stevens, 1833; John Dow, 1838; Lorenzo S. Clark, 1843; Alphonso H. Clark, 1846; Benjamin S. Jones, 1858; Lorenzo S. Clark, 1866; B. A. Cox, 1872; William H. Dudley, 1876; L. S. Clark, 1887; J. B. Ripley, 1889; and Frank M. Lapham since 1891. Ecclesiastical. — The religion of the Puritans was not deep- rooted in Pittston. Those of that faith attended at Hallowell, there being but a few here in 1786. It is said that Major Reuben Colburn would on Saturdays, if the weather were suitable, take his family in a canoe and paddle them down the river to Georgetown, thirty-five miles away, attending church Sunday and returning Monday. The church building of 1788 was allowed to stand after the town finished it, and was used for meetings. The eastern part of the town did not 722 HISTORY of kennebec county. favor any faith except Methodism, and in 1810 the town was divided by a central line creating two parishes — West and East. A Congregational society was formed November 12, 1812, in the- East parish, at the house of Major Reuben Colburn, by Isaac Noyes,. Ephraim Hunt, Thomas Jackson, Francis Flitner, Mrs. Jackson, Mrs.. Jackins, Mary Oakman and Sally Oakman. Daniel Kendrick was ordained the minister, and regular preaching was enjoyed for many- years. About 1836 the present neat edifice was erected on the Cap tain David B. Bailey farm. In 1841 Rev. James McCollum was ordained, and continued as pastor till the autumn of 1845. In 184& Rev. J. H. Stratton was ordained, remaining until 1849, succeeded by Rev. Sumner Clarke for two years. Rev. Joshua Gray assumed the- pastorate in the fall of 1851. In 1883 C. S. Wilder filled the desk. In 1884 it was vacant. Jacob- Horton and W. H. McBride officiated in 1885; Rev. Mr. Thygeson in 1886 and 1887; Daniel Evans completed the season of 1887 and that of 1888; William H. McBride returned in 1890, succeeding Lyman Meservis, of 1889. In 1891, during the summer, Rev. Mr. Ferguson officiated. The Methodist Episcopal Society of East Pittston was instituted in 1797, by the efforts of Aaron Humphrey, and included members from Whitefield. The first Methodist preaching in the town was by the pioneer Jesse Lee, about 1794. He was succeeded by Philip Wager, Enoch Mudge, Elias Hull and Roger Searls, before the society was. organized. This church, which included David Young, James Norris„ Benjamin Flitner and Burnham Clark among its most efficient early members, has always been joined in circuit with others in neighbor ing towns. Four efficient ministers have been raised from this. society — David Young, jun., John Young, and Eliakim and Cyrus- Scammon. From the organization until 1810 the other ministers were: John Finegan, Comfort C. Smith, Timothy Merritt, Reuben Hubbard, Joseph Baker, Daniel Ricker, Samuel Hillman, Allen H_ Cobb, David Carr, James Young, Joel Steele and William Frost. The ministers to 1820 were: Daniel Wentworth, David Stimpson,. Caleb Fogg, Samuel Hillman, Joshua Nye, Ebenezer F. Newell, John Wilkinson, John Lewis, Jeremiah Marsh, Henry True, John Briggs,. William McGray and Benjamin Ayer. Ministers to 1830 were: John Atwell, Philip Ayer, Daniel Wentworth, E. F. Newell, B. Jones, Peter Burgess, Caleb Fogg, Francis Drew, William S. Douglass and John Libby. Those to 1840 were: John Young, Samuel Jewett, James Thwing, R. J. Ayer and Josiah Higgins. The next decade brought Reverends Daniel Fuller, S. P. Blake, Sullivan Bray, David Hutchin son, George D. Strout, Mace R. Clough and Daniel Clark. During the next decade the pastors were: P P. Morrill, John S. Pingree, Ben jamin F. Sprague, R. T. Dixon, Oran Strout and J. D. Brown. Durino- TOWN OF PITTSTON. 723' the sixties the pastors were: Otis F. Jenkins, R. R. Richards, P. Hig gins, P. Rowell, C. E. Libbey, John C. Prescott and Albert Prescott. In the seventies: John Bean, J. W. Perry, M. G. Prescott, Moses D- Miller, E. H. Boynton and E. H. Tunnicliff. During the eighties: Orren Tyler, Jacob T. Crosby, Joseph H. Beale, B. B. Byrnes; and, in 1888, Orren Tyler for four years. In 1871 the church edifice was repaired, and in 1878 the parsonage was renovated and painted. A Sunday school was organized in 1832. This society is now joined in circuit with Whitefield. In 1809 a small church building was erected by subscription, and in 1838 the present and better one was built by the society, assisted by citizens. The cost was $2,400, and the building is free to all other denominations when not in use by the Methodists. In 1846 the first church bell of the town was placed in its tower. Schools. — Early attention was given to this branch of civilization, and the town of 1803, when Gardiner was set off, contained nineteen school houses. As early as 1785 the selectmen were instructed " to hire a schoolmaster and fix the wards." In 1787 it was voted to raise £30 for schooling, to be paid in lumber or anything the schoolmaster would take. In 1791 £80 were raised in the old town, of which £20 belonged in the Eastern River district. In 1825 the present territory of Pittston contained eleven districts, which were increased in num ber gradually. Ten of these were given limit in 1815, by a committee appointed for the purpose. The first three districts were on the river front, running back one and a half miles; the fourth comprised the territory north of Togus stream; the fifth was where North Pittston now is; and the others were east of the first three, extending to the Whitefield line. In 1823 the eleventh district was formed in the northwest part of the town. Through these years each district elected its own committee, and all were under a town superintendent, elected at the annual meetings. In 1850 an academy was incorporated. Thirty-one enterprising citizens were the incorporators and subscribers. Dr. H. Small was the first president and Albert N. Clark first secretary. Tuition began in the fall of 1850, under G. F. Jackson, A.M., teacher. This institu tion flourished until superseded by the free, advanced schools of later years. The academy building is now used as a high school in the town system of the last few years. PYom the $400 school appropriation of 1803, the amount has in creased to five times that sum. Cemeteries. — Few towns of like area show more cemeteries than Pittston. This is not to be wondered at when it is known that many of the first permanent settlers were buried on their own lots, and these lots have been held by descendants, who have used the same burial places. 724 HISTORY OF KEXNEBEC COUNTY. On the river road, the Cutts burial ground is the most important. This is held and controlled by incorporation. It is well fenced and kept. The Coss cemetery was originally a private ground, but land has been added and deeded in lots until it is an important, well situ ated, pretty ground, and is substantially fenced. Near where stood the old Congregational church is an antiquated and neglected place of sepulture, overgrown with quite large trees. Tradition cannot fix the occupants of this ancient ground. There are several private grounds along the river road. One is on the Benjamin F. Fuller farm; one on George A. Yeaton's land, formerly the Mooersfarm; one on Eben Day's farm; and another on the E. M. Morton farm, called the LaPlane ground. The Haley family were buried on their own ground, now owned by Frederick Meserve. On Beech hill is an old ground, surrounded by a stone wall, situated in the forks of the roads. It and its surroundings are fast growing up to the bush. On the Seth Soper homestead is an iron-fenced family ground. A slab indicates that Seth Soper died May 4, 1799, aged 69 years. The cemetery at East Pittston traces its beauty to an incorporation which existed in its earlier days; it is near the Methodist church, and presents a pretty appearance. At North Pittston is a well-kept old town burying ground, having a stone fence on three sides and an iron one in front. The individual or family grounds are generally fenced, and sacredly revered by descendants and by subsequent holders of the land. PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. Captain George W. Bailey, born in 1826, is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Barker) Bailey, and grandson of Jacob Bailey. He began going to sea in 1841, and from 1855 until he retired in 1886, he was in command of vessels. He married Philena, daughter of William Brown, and their children are: Sarah H. (Mrs. Charles Lawrence), Augusta (Mrs. A. E. Lewis), and George W., jun., who married Caddie R. Small. Captain William O. Basford, born in 1838, in Augusta, is a son of William P. and Emeline (Colburn) Basford, and grandson of Jacob Basford, who came from New Hampshire to Augusta. Mr. Basford has lived in Pittston since 1839. In 1855 he began a seafaring life in the foreign trade. He was master of vessels from 1873 until 1886, since which time he has remained at home. James K. Bickford, born in Smithfield, Me, in 1844, is the only child of Isaac and Lucretia (Downs) Bickford, and grandson of Moses Bickford. He came to Pittston with his parents in 1851, and settled on a part of the Jackins farm, where he now lives. He married Annie L., daughter of John Price, and their children, all deceased, were: Lucy L., Gertrude and an infant son. TOWN OF PITTSTON. 725 Harrison D. Blodgett, born in 1855, is a son of Jasper and Mary E. (Tyler) Blodgett, grandson of David and Nancy (Marson) Blodgett, and great-grandson of Joseph Blodgett. Mr. Blodgett is a farmer, and is the fourth generation of his family to occupy the home farm. He married Flora, daughter of John and Maria (Mitchell) Marson. Their children are: Jessie E., Florence M., Harrison S. and Fred D. John Blodgett, born in 1833, is a son of Nathaniel and Jane (Choate) Blodgett, and grandson of Joseph, who, with his brother, Ebenezer, came from Lexington, Mass., to Pittston. Mr. Blodgett is a farmer. He married Henrietta, daughter of Daniel Thompson. Their chil dren are: Henry, Almeda, Arthur, Chester, Elmer, Walter, Gertrude and Annie. Charles E. Bradstreet is one of the nine children of Joseph and Ruth (Moore) Bradsteet, and grandson of Andrew Bradstreet, who came to Maine from England. Mr. Bradstreet has been a farmer on the homestead where his father settled. He died April 3, 1892. He married Abigail Smith, who died leaving eight children: Charles E., jun., George W., Delia A., Orlando W., Caroline A., Frederick G., Maria A. and Mary E. Orlando W. Bradstreet, born in 1845, is a son of Charles E. Brad street. He followed the sea for twelve years, since which time he has been a farmer. He married S. Lettie, daughter of Cavalier and Julia (Alexander) Hondlette, and granddaughter of Lewis Hondlette. Frederick G. Bradstreet, born in 1847, is a son of Charles E. Brad street. He is a farmer and is also employed in the ice business. He married Annie M., daughter of Alexander and Maria (Newell) Atkins. They have one daughter, Eva M., and lost one son in infancy, Eugene. John F. Bragden, born in 1836, is a son of John D. and Elmira (Shepard) Bragden, and grandson of John Daniel Bragden. Mr. Bragden followed the sea for fourteen years, and is now a farmer. He married Mary Sullivan. His children are: John, Susan, Raynold and Mary. Eben N. Brande, whose father was captain of militia in 1812, was in the late war one year in Company I, 24th Maine. He married El vira M., daughter of Daniel Butland; her mother was Eliza, daughter of Abner and Margaret (Corney) Marson, and granddaughter of Abner Marson. They have one son, W. Wirt, and lost one, Roscoe W. Mrs. Brande keeps a small variety store in a part of her residence. Ebenezer Brookings, son of John and Harriet (Moore) Brookings, was born in Wiscasset in 1831. John. Brookings was a sea captain. Ebenezer came to Pittston in 1847, where he was engaged in the mer cantile business until July, 1863, when he entered the army and served in Company F, 11th Maine volunteers, until February, 1865. In 1866 he settled where he now lives and engaged in farming and the meat '726 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. business. In 1888 his son, Everett E., succeeded him in the meat business. He first married Huldah Preble, who died leaving three children: Mrs. Augustus Moody, Everett E. and Winfield S. His present wife was Mrs. Hannah Roberts, daughter of Alexander and Maria (Newell) Atkins, and granddaughter of Joseph and Jane (Blair) Atkins. Samuel J. Brookings, son of Samuel and Fannie (Reed) Brookings, and grandson of James Brookings, was born in Whitefield in 1843. He served in the war of the rebellion from September, 1862, to August, 1863, in Company F, 21st Maine. He is now a farmer in Pittston, where he has lived since 1871. He married Jennie, daughter -of Ira and Betsey (Richardson) Elkins, and granddaughter of Jonathan Elkins. They have one daughter, Jessie L. James M. Carpenter, born in 1813 in Massachusetts, came to Pitts ton in 1844. His father, Joseph, was a son of Colonel Thomas Car penter, a revolutionary soldier. Before coming to Pittston Mr Car penter had been clerk for Brown & Ives, at Lonsdale, R. I., for eleven years, and made out the first pay roll on the Blackstone river. His wife, Martha J. R., was a daughter of Henry Bodge, late of Pittston. Mr. Carpenter bought a farm in the south part of Pittston in 1844, which he carried on until his death, March 22, 1892. His wife died the same day. Mr. Carpenter was one of Pittston's most worthy and well known citizens. He was always interested in town affairs, and held various town offices for many years. He was county commis sioner for several years, and was chairman of the republican town committee. He served several years on the state board of agricul ture, and was prominently connected with local agricultural organi sations. From 1836 until his death he represented different insur ance companies. Hosea H. Cary, son of Seth S. and Susanna (Hildreth) Cary, was born at Topsham, Me, in 1847. He came to East Pittston in 1878 from Gardiner, where he had lived seven years. He carries on a wholesale meat business at East Pittston, having abandoned the retail part of the business after the first five years. He married Harriet A. Pray, and has four children: Susan A., Mary H., Eliphalet P. and Gilbert G. Mr. Cary has been selectman of Pittston three years. C. Wallace Church, son of Charles B. Church, was born in Wash ington, D. C, in 1849. In March, 1880, he was appointed paymaster .and agent of the Independent Ice Company, of which his father is president, and since that time he has lived at Pittston. He married Laura F., daughter of Franklin Powers. Their children are: Lewis M. and Charles B. Lorenzo S. Clark, the only surviving child of Samuel and Mary -(Clark) Clark, and grandson of Isaac Clark, was born in. 1818. He.was a merchant at East Pittston from 1836 until 1889, when he, was sue- TOWN OF PITTSTON. 727 •ceeded by his son, Henry A. He has been four times elected select man, and nine times town clerk. His wife is Sarah, daughter of Henry Dearborn. Their children are: Warren D., Samuel, Henry A., Flor- ¦ence, Permelia and H. Augustus, who died. William S. Cleaves, son of Samuel and Eliza (Kies) Cleaves, and grandson of. Samuel Cleaves, was born in 1843. He followed the mer cantile business six years at Windsor, and since 1871, with the excep tion of two years, has been a merchant at East Pittston. He has lost two wives, who were sisters — Nellie and Delia Smith. His present wife was Mrs. Jane Hovey. Richard H. Colburn is a son of Gustavus and Alzina (Knight) Col burn, grandson of David and Hannah (Averili) Colburn, and great- . -grandson of Reuben and Elizabeth (Lewis) Colburn. Gustavus Colburn died in 1886, aged sixty-four years. Richard H. married Idell S., daugh ter of Fred S Blackman. July 5, 1763, Jeremiah and Hannah (Varnum) 'Colburn came to Pittston and bought 800 acres of land on the eastern side of the Kennebec river. On May 6, 1765, he sold to his son, Reuben, 107 acres, on which the latter built the homestead now stand ing. About the time of this purchase Reuben married Elizabeth Lewis. Richard H. now occupies a part of this tract. The house he lives in is the oldest in Pittston. Captain James S. Cooper, born in Pittston in 1825, was a son of Henry and Eleanor (Bailey) Cooper, and grandson of Leonard Cooper. ¦ Captain Cooper followed the sea from 1841 until 1872, after 1851 as master of vessels. He married Mary G., daughter of Captain George Garr, of Hallowell. From 1872 until his death, May 5, 1892, Captain Cooper was engaged in farming and horse breeding. Washington Cutts, born in 1817, is the youngest son of Samuel and Catherine (Woodward) Cutts, and grandson of Samuel and Sarah (Hill) •Cutts. Mr. Cutts' father came to Pittston about 1800 and was a black smith by trade. Mr. Cutts is a farmer. He married Lettiee, daughter of Nathaniel and Hannah Tibbetts, and granddaughter of Abiather Tibbetts. Their two sons are Samuel W. and Alvin; they lost one •daughter, Alice. Moses J. Donnell, son of Rev. Moses and Martha (Cunningham) Donnell, was born at Wiscasset September 27, 1833. He moved to Windsor with his parents November 30, 1839, and moved to Pittston November 24, 1864. He married Ann E., daughter of David and Susan Bryant, of Windsor. Henry Dow, born in Wiscasset in 1801, is the oldest man in Pitts ton. His father, Thomas, son of Henry Dow, of Haverhill, Mass., a revolutionary soldier, came to Pittston in 1813, where he died in 1814, leaving six children. The support of this family fell on this boy of "thirteen years. With heroic will and ceaseless toil Henry and his : noble mother guided the family boat between the awful rocks of 728 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. starvation and the almshouse. " One morning, in 1817, with an empty stomach — not a mouthful in the house for breakfast— I brought with the ox team a half cord of hemlock bark to the river bank, bor rowed a boat, ferried my bark to Gardiner, and sold it to William Bradstreet for $1.25— just enough to buy a half bushel of corn of Mc Clellan, who kept the Great House Tavern— got my little grist ground at the old wooden mill — hurried back, every step quickened by pangs of hunger and the thoughts of a famishing family." In 1825 he mar ried Hannah Jewett. Their children were: Hannah E., Thomas H., Anna D., Ellen A. and George W. The second and last two are still living. Captain Andrew J. Erskins, born in 1834, is a son of David and Betsey (Waltz) Erskins, grandson of Alexander and Betsey (Boland) Erskins, and great-grandson of Captain Robert Erskins, who settled at Bristol, Me, and took up one thousand acres of land, giving each of his nine sons a farm from it. Alexander was captain of a company in the revolutionary war, and in 1812 he had charge of the fort at Bristol, Me. Captain Erskins began going to sea in 1846 and attained to master in 1855, which position he continued to hold until 1881, when he retired. He married Margaret, daughter of George King, of White- field, They have one daughter, Ella (Mrs. Everett E. Brookings). On Captain Erskins' lot in Pittston is a mineral spring which Gen eral Dearborn used. He walled it as it now is, with curved brick burnt for the purpose, and over it still stands the spring house which the general built. James Farreil, born in 1834, is a son of Thomas and Catherine (Finity) Farreil, who came from Ireland to Boston, and in 1830 came to Pittston and settled on the farm where Mr. Farreil now lives. He married Mary Jane, daughter of Patrick Gilson. Their children are: Mamie E., Eugene J. and two that died. Mr. Farreil was several years in the lumber business in California, but since 1870 has been a farmer at East Pittston. William O. Foye, son of James and Harriet (Stickney) Foye, and grandson of Joseph and Polly (Chase) Foye, was born in Pittston in 1865, and is a farmer and milkman. He married Georgia, daughter of S. WTillis Dunton, of Whitefield. Jonathan Gilman, born in Whitefield in 1815, died March 26, 1892, was a son of Jonathan and grandson of Peter Gilman. He was a farmer in Pittston for fifty years; the farm where he lived was owned for many years prior to his purchase of it by Asa Averili. Mr. Gil man married Abigail, daughter of Asa and Abigail (Bickford) Averili, and granddaughter of David Averili. Charles C. Goodwin, born in 1838, is a son of Abial and Susan (Small) Goodwin, and grandson of Samuel Goodwin. Mr. Goodwin was in the late war in Company C, 19th Maine, from August, 1862, TOWN OF PITTSTON. 729 until July, 1865. He married Alwilda, daughter of William T. Blair, and has one daughter, Charlena F. Fred B. Gould, born in 1853, is the only surviving child of William and Lydia A. (Moore) Gould, grandson of Dennis and Elizabeth (War ren) Gould, and great-grandson of Joseph and Ruth (Renwick) Gould (or Goold, as then spelled). Mr. Gould now owns the homestead and occupies the house built by Dennis Gould. He has been a farmer since 1879, and prior to that he was in business in Gardiner. William Gould was a tinsmith and tin-ware merchant at Gardiner several years prior to 1845. Mr. Gould's wife is M. A vesta, daughter of Van Buren Hathorne. James Gould, 2d, born in 1833, is the eldest son of James and Rachel (Rollins) Gould, grandson of Dennis, and great-grandson of Joseph and Ruth (Renwick) Gould. He drove a team for twelve years in granite quarries. He is now a farmer. His first wife was Lucie Moody and his present wife was Cora B. Cunningham. They have one child, Jennette A. Edward E. Hanley is a son of Franklin and Catherine (Doyle) Han ley". He has had charge of the East Pittston creamery since April, 1891, and previous to that he was a merchant four years. He was town auditor in 1888 and 1889, and selectman in 1890, '91 and '92. He has been secretary of the East Pittston Agricultural and Trotting Association. George R. Hanley, born in 1833, is a son of Michael and Effie Han ley, and grandson of Patrick Hanley. He is a farmer and carpenter, and lives on the farm where his father settled when he came to Pitts ton. He married Margaret, daughter of Patrick Gilson. They have two children: George A. and Mary E. Alfred Hanley, son of Michael and Effie (Howard) Hanley, was born in 1836. He is a farmer on the farm formerly owned by Patrick Gilson. He married Catherine, daughter of Patrick Gilson. They have two daughters: Gertrude M. and Tesa I. Van Buren Hathorne, born in 1835 in Dresden, is a son of War ren and Mary (Bickford) Hathorne, and grandson of John Hawthorne. He has been a farmer in Pittston since 1868. He married Joanna L., daughter of Hiram Pottle, and their children are: Maria Avesta (Mrs. F. B. Gould), Jenette M., Jefferson AV. and Herman F. Thomas B. Heath, son of John Heath, married Miriam C. Pottle, and of their eight children only two sons are living. Rufus E., born in 1846, is a farmer, and married Hattie L., daughter of Franklin and Sarah (Smith) Colburn. Their children are: Charles, Ella, Maud, Maria, Amy B., Eugene R. and Clarence. The other son is George P., born in 1856, married to Nellie, daughter of Joseph E. and Abbie 47 730 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. (Marson) Soper, and granddaughter of Joseph and Susan (Woodward) Soper. Their children are: Rena M. and Harold R. Henry W. Hunt, son of Winslow and Mahala (Clark) Hunt, was born in 1851. He is a blacksmith; he worked six years at East Pitts ton, two years at Sagamore, Mass., and is now with the P. C. Holmes Company, Gardiner. He married Emma L., daughter of Daniel Thompson. They have three children: Ralph L., Clarence C. and Florence M. Samuel A. Jewett, born in 1831, is the eldest son of Samuel H. and Mary (Pottle) Jewett, and grandson of Jonathan Jewett, who came from Londonderry, N. H., to Pittston in 1798, with his five children, all of whom lived to be over seventy years of age. Mr. Jewett was in California from 1853 to 1858, engaged in mining. Since that time he has been a farmer. He is now (1892) serving his fifth term as select man. He married Lovina, daughter of Freeman Cooper. Their chil dren are: William B. and Carrie A., living, and three daughters de ceased — Mary S., Hattie L. and Georgia. Benjamin H. Knight is a son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Hodgden) Knight, and grandson of John Knight. Mr. Knight came to Pittston in 1864 and settled on a part of tbe Rev. David Young farm, where he has since been a farmer. The farm and its duties he has now intrusted to his son, Alden. Mr. Knight married Sarah, daughter of John Decker. They have had nine children: Warren R. (died in May, 1892), Benjamin F., Joseph A., Adoniram J., Fred W., Dummer C, Clara E., Allen and Alden, who married Abbie E., daughter of D. C. Little, and is now at the home farm caring for his aged parents. He has one son, Wallace L., born March 31. 1892. Henry Knight, born in 1829 m Pittston, is a son of Robert and Mary (Pratt) Knight, grandson of Robert and Betsey (Davis) Knight, and great-grandson of Robert Knight, of New Hampshire, who was killed by the Indians about 1780. Mr. Knight is a house and ship car penter. He has lived at East Pittston since 1859, where he has been a farmer and kept a mill; from 1864 until 1887 it was a water mill and since the latter date it has been a steam mill. Mr. Knio-ht is a dispenser of viands and his residence is the nearest approach to a hotel that East Pittston affords. He married Rose B., daughter of David H. and Polly (Knight) Howe, the latter a daughter of Robert and Betsey (Davis) Knight, as above. Their only daughter, Lydia A., is now Mrs. Daniel Moore. William Alonzo Knight, son of William and Asenath (Thompson) Knight, and grandson of Amos Knight, was born in 1834. He is a lumberman and lives where his father settled when he came to Pitts ton from North Wayne in 1834. He married Sarah J., daughter of Abner P. McFadden. Their two sons are William W& and Harry C. o»e»*«t 111 III '1 \5oW.3av\.es. » 5 ~ yU \- CVvo.se , o-vvs. .(\WC-OllW.. O o\\v*j v j o vv.es- If- Co/a/* • "Bo«Ag "JSo^vwc^ CocVs O-xx^-teX, SnAVc 'SA.vNas' c!>o ts-oo iL.vs\w; iwxvjV^ Coav^U>.v\-^. The town possesses in fair degree all the resources that, character ize the other farming towns of the county. It is quite hilly, rocky ledges are frequent, and the northeast slopes are strewn with huge boulders. That lumbering here was of later date that in the towns north and south of it is shown by the appearance of the surface of the land, and by the fact that many of the early saw mills were in use within the remembrance of its living middle-aged people. The To gus stream furnished power for most of the mills. Old Mills and Stores.— As Togus stream is ascended from the Randolph line, there was an old saw mill built and run by WTlliam and Robert Moore. Next above was the Searls mill, at the point where the stream crosses the road near the residence of William T. Searls- this was built by his father, Thomas Searls, in 1834. A portion of the wall remains to mark the spot, the mill having been taken down in 1862. Just above the Searls mill was the Douglass saw mill— erected TOWN OF CHELSEA. 751 by the Douglass ancestors earlier than the Searls mill, and abandoned when the latter was established. The Gardner mill was next above, and stood where the road crosses the stream above the present Baker mill. It was built by Joel Gardner, grandfather of A. P. Gardner; Am brose Gardner, his father, ran it till about 1853, when it was sold to Orrin Emerson, who, after a few years, sold to Warren Lewis, of Pitts ton. The mill and privilege were later sold to Oliver Moulton. The Roberts mill was still further above, and was the scene of much activ ity in its day. The present mill, on the stream near H. W. Gaslin's store, is owned by John F. Baker, although reported as sold to the government for establishing an electric light plant for the lighting of the Soldiers' Home. It is an old building, originally a saw mill, then a grist mill and later a saw mill again. About 1850 Nathan O. Mitchell built the Jewett mill, so-called from the name of the person on whose land it stood. This was at Old Orchard, where the upper ice house, owned by the Knickerbocker Ice Company, now stands. A dam at the bridge furnished water for the overshot wheel. It ran two seasons, and was then taken down. James Brown, father of George Brown, farmer and lumberman, built a saw mill on Brown's brook, which flows through the Brown farm and empties into the Kennebec river opposite Brown's island. This mill was built in 1814, and in 1846 it was rebuilt by John Jewett. Just below the Brown brook, about twenty rods, is the old Indian landing used by the Indians as a stopping place in going up and down the river. Fifty rods above the Searls and Brown mill, on the Togus, a saw mill was built about 1799 by Black John Jones. It was burned about 1820 and was rebuilt by John Jewett about 1843. John Jones, known as " Black John," the surveyor, was a tory. His adopted son took his full name and became heir to a good farm on the river road in Chelsea. In the northeastern part of the town were several old stores, patronized by lumbermen. For several years, while lumbering was at its height, Pickering & Frink, a firm from New Hampshire, con ducted one of these stores on land owned by George Woodbury. They afterward retired from the business and left the town. The old building was moved down by the river, about 1856, and fitted up as the dwelling of Bradley Hall. On the corner opposite the school house, where H. W. Gaslin now is, Samuel Lawton opened a store, about 1856. After a few years he was succeeded by Benjamin Run- nell, and he in turn by James H. Covel. In 1885 Henry W. Gaslin bought the place, added a good dwelling to the store property, and still continues in general trade. Industries. — Some vessels were built along the river bank during the first half of this century, which fact appears among the industries 752 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. of the county. About 1850 a man named James Black built a fishing schooner in his door-yard on the river road, and hauled it to the Blanchard wharf— later Brown's wharf— where he launched his craft. Chelsea Heights, in the northwest part of the town, on the river, is thickly settled. Business began here briskly at an early day. A ferry was kept by Joseph Haskell, and on the point near by Daniel H. Weeks opened a general store. Ephraim Rolf has a ferry there now for foot passengers; it is at the Hallowell road, so called. In this part of the town Horace Weeks had a store; the site now belongs to John Bishop. Weeks was, for several years, succeeded by Alden Jackson.. About 1836 a firm, Nute & Durban, built a store just east of the Jackson store. Durban died after a few years and Nute moved away. Then Frank A. Day and Alden Jackson formed a copartnership. The partnership was afterward dissolved, and Day continued the business for several years alone. The building was burned in 1858, after hav ing been remodeled and occupied as a dwelling. A dock was built near here, in the thirties, by Doctor Brainard; but it soon fell into disuse. There are no villages within the limits of the town. The settle ment in the eastern territory of the town is called Cooperstown, from the name of the early settlers of that part. Religious services are held in the school house of District No. 6. Togus is a very important center, being the site of the Eastern Home for D. V. S., of which particulars will be found at page 106. The Kennebec Central railway crosses the town, extending from Randolph to Togus, and affording the inhabitants of the town many facilities. The Hallowell and East Pittston post offices are so near that the Chelseans have been generally well supplied with mail facilities. An office was opened in 1882 in the town, at Grange Hall, with Stephen Cobb as postmaster. He was succeeded in 1886 by Freeman Y. Barker. In 1889 Patrick Hayes, the present incumbent, was appointed. He also keeps the store. This Grange Hall was built in 1878 by a stock company. During the autumn of that year the store was run by the Grange, and in 1884 A. F. P. Collins and Otis Douglass purchased the stock in trade. Mr. Douglass sold to J. M. Richardson, and, later, Patrick Hayes purchased the interests of both. The hall over the store is the place of meeting of the Sons of Temperance and the Grange. Societies. — The Lodge of the Sons of Temperance, No. 5, was organized May 2, 1870, at Togus, by ten charter members. Rev. George B. Barber, chaplain at the home, was the first W. P. He was succeeded by G. D. D'Orsay; then by a Mr. Haney. After about three years the place- of meeting was changed to its present neighborhood, and the successive worthy patriarchs have been: W. T. Searls, Thomas TOWN OF CHELSEA. 753 Searls, Patrick Hayes, Stephen Cobb, Mrs. Julia A. Farnham, H. A. Farnham, E. H. Collins, A. F. P. Collins, Mrs. Minnie J. Libby, Willie 0. Cobb, Edmund Searls, Mrs. Harriet E. Cobb, O. E. Farnham, Maria E. Collins, Mrs. Annie L. Hayes, Mrs. Julia Barker, Miss Lena Mc Kay, Robert McKay, Arthur N. Douglass, Mrs. Nellie Collins, John E. Meader, Miss Eva Searls, Mrs. Frank Cobb, Miss Katie A. McKay, W. K. Thompson, Mrs. N. M. Heminway, Miss Florence E. Thomp son and Thomas Searls. The Lodge now numbers eighty members. Chelsea Grange, No. 215, which meets in the hall, was organized March 4, 1876, by twenty-nine charter members. For two and a half years previous to this the society met in the school house. A store was kept around the neighborhood in different families until the hall was opened, when the stock was gathered there. The master overseers of the Grange have been: William T. Searls, A. N. Douglass, Stephen Cobb, F. Y. Barker, Eugene H. Collins, Hiram A. Farnham and Pat rick Hayes. W. T. Searls has acted as presiding officer for much of the time, and was reelected in 1891. He and F. Y. Barker have been the acting secretaries most of the time since the organization. Fifty members now enjoy the social and business advantages of the order. The strong temperance element of the town is represented by Pleasant Lodge, No. 9, 1. O. of G. T. It assembles weekly at the school house in District No. 9, and contains over thirty active members. The chief templars since the organization, in 1887, have been: James E. Blanchard, Henry Clark, William B. Trask, James A. Clough, H. C. Stevens, John B. Aldrich, Mrs. A. A. Sampson, Frank Stevens, Martin Nelson and Frank Gilpatrick. The Lodge deputy is I. F. Plummer. Civil History. — From the incorporation of Hallowell until the erection of Chelsea into a separate municipality the civil history is inseparable from that of Hallowell, of which the territory was a part. The citizens of the East side (now Chelsea) were chosen as officers, and in every way performed their share in the growth and advance ment of the whole town. The roads were few and poorly worked in those early days. A strip of territory fifty rods on the river was allowed to be set off to Pittston (now Randolph). In 1851, the first municipal year of Chelsea, $200 was raised for the poor, and more especial care was given to the laying out of proper burial places. No pound had been built by the old town on this side of the river, and none was sufficiently needed to require the expense. For several years good men, who had suitable yards, were willing to be pound masters, using their own barn-yards and stables. In 1853 it was voted that William Littlefield, A. Griffin and Rufus Clark be pound keepers, and use their own yards and stables. In 1860 the entire eighteen field drivers were made pound keepers, using their own barn-yards for the purpose. 754 history of kennebec county. A house for the poor has not been necessary, although in 1867 it was voted to buy or rent a house, if the selectmen thought fit. That year $950 was voted for the poor, but the custom of letting the keep ing to the lowest bidder has prevailed, and is yet in vogue, with satis factory results to all concerned. The vote of the town has been for temperance, and in 1867, when called to vote on an amendment, it de cided for the law of 1858, instead of that of 1856. In 1859 the vote was seven to one against aiding to build with Hallowell the bridge across the river; and by a consistent, conservative course the town long ago paid up its war debt, after promptly doing every duty, and is now in an excellent condition financially. Party politics is no hin drance to the good management of town affairs, and the best men are elected as its officers. Since the organization of the town the following have been elected selectmen, the year of election and the number of years of service, although not always consecutive, being given: F. A. Day for 1851; John M. Davenport for 1851, and 5 years; Thomas Searls, 1851, 4 years; F. B. Davis, 1852, 3; Stephen Lawton, 1852; Josiah F. Morrill, 1853, 5; Alonzo Tenney, 1855, 3; Orrin Emerson, 1856, 6; Adoniram Griffin, 1856, 2; N. R. Winslow, 1857, 16; George Brown, 1858, 4; J. F. Morrill, 1859, 6; John Davis, 1860; H. D. Doe, 1861, 2; John Davenport, 1863, 2; Edwin H. Blanchard, 1865, 2; Charles H. Davenport, 1S67, 2; Albert N. Douglass, 1867, 9; E. F. Longfellow, 1868; William T. Searls, 1869, 16; S. W. Barker, 1870; Alfred Davenport, 1872; William W. Hanker- son, 1872, 6; Stephen Cobb, 1873, 2; Almon Carson, 1873; Jonathan Laiton, 1876; J. B. Packard, 1877; James T. Brown, 1878; L. H. Trask, 1879; H. N. Laiton, 1881, 2; James E. Blanchard, 1882, 2; J. S. Tenney, 1885, 2; William E. Trask, 1884; A. A. Sampson, 1880, 4; F. C. Meader, 1888, 3; C. H. Blanchard, 1889, 2; O. W Littlefield, 1890; O. F. Cooper, 1892. The successive Clerks of the town, with the dates of their election, have been: 1851, Ebenezer Freeman; 1863, Frank W. Barker; 1864, Stephen Cobb; 1869, Samuel W. Barker; 1871, J. C. Barker; 1876, Ben Tenney; 1879, J. E. Blanchard; 1880, J. B. Packard; 1884, S. A. Cobb— Stephen Cobb to fill vacancy; 1885, Otis Littlefield; 1889, Isaac F. Plummer; and since 1891, C. H. Watson. The Treasurers, in order of succession, have been: 1851, F. A. Day; 1852, Ebenezer Freeman; 1863, C. H. Davenport; 1864, Thomas Searls; 1867, Samuel W. Barker; 1871, William W. Hankerson; 1875, Stephen Cobb; 1878, J. L. Gray; 1880, William T. Searls; 1885, J. H. Hunt; 1886, James E. Blanchard; 1887, F. Y. Barker; and since 1890, John Hale Yeaton. Schools. — In 1787 one of the school districts of old Hallowell em braced all the territory now included in Chelsea. The growth ofthe community led to divisions and subdivisions of this district, and in TOWN OF CHELSEA. 755 4> 1851 the town of Chelsea re-numbered the districts and appointed a committee in each. In 1852 divisions and alterations were made in district limits to better and more equally accommodate all the patrons. At this time $600 a year was voted for school purposes. In 1860 dis tricts 4 and 7 were consolidated into No. 8. Ten years later, in 1870, the town voted $1,050 for its schools, each district having a competent officer whose duty it was to maintain the best possible school within the amount of money apportioned to that district. Since 1890 there have been nine divisions or districts. No regular high school is kept, as the few who desire the benefits of such an institution can obtain much better advantages in adjoining towns. The school houses are comfortable, and are so located as to best accommodate the pupils. Uniform text books are purchased by the town and used in the schools. Ecclesiastical. — The town contains no separate religious society. The majority of professed Christians are Methodists, and are generally communicants of the church at Randolph. The pastor of the Ran dolph church preaches here once in two weeks, and this people are considered within the Randolph charge. The few Baptists here also sustain services, and a large and profitable Union Sunday school has been organized by the two societies here, and regular services are held. The old church, now a town house, which stood on the river road when built, was of great importance in its earliest days. Forty years ago the audience room would be crowded with listeners at the stated preachings; but death and removals thinned the ranks. About 1866 the church was moved to its present site, it being hoped that this step would resuscitate its usefulness; but in 1883 it was given to the town, if that body would keep it in repair and allow preaching within its walls, as needed. Cemeteries. — There are several burying places in the town, four being in care of the town, and others in care of the families to whom they belong. One, a town ground, is at Togus, on the road to Ran dolph, and is well kept. The government has one for the home, which is in its care. The Stickney ground is on the Augusta road, and is well fenced and cared for. The Goodwin yard, on the river road, is also in care of the town. It is well fenced, but is not used. An ancient burial place on the land of William Chase, near the river, indicates the condition into which a famil)7 cemetery can fall by neglect. No fence surrounds it, the brush and trees on its surface being its only protection from encroachment. The Davenport ground, •on Alfred Davenport's land, contains the remains of the older mem bers of the family. It is walled in, and not used by others. The Lit tlefield ground, on Horace Littlefield's farm, is a well-kept family yard. The Trask ground, on the farm of James Trask, is not only a family 756 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. yard, but others have been buried there. It is surrounded by a sub stantial wall. The father of. George E. Morrill gave a small plot of ground to the town for a cemetery, which is in use on the Morrill farm. It is well cared for. Thomas Searls laid out a small ground on his farm, just be yond the residence of W. T. Searls, where himself and deceased mem bers of the family rest. It is situated on a knoil surrounded by a neat picket fence. It is used by the family only. Across the road from this cemetery A. N. Douglass has opened a burying ground in which lots can be purchased. It is on high ground, and when fenced prop erly will be a pleasant spot. At the annual town meetings for many years past a sexton, with care of the hearse, has been appointed. PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. George H. Ames, born February 15, 1840, is a son of Asa and Bet sey (Hunton) Ames. He was in the quartermaster's department in the United States army from 1864 until 1865. From 1869 until 1884 he was a marble cutter at Hallowell, and since 1884 has been deputy sheriff in Chelsea. He married Pamelia A., daughter of George Evans, and they have one daughter, Carrie A. (Mrs. Fred A.. Hinckley). Edwin H. Blanchard is one of Chelsea's enterprising and success ful farmers. He married August 7, 1853, Charlotte A., daughter of James and Martha J. (Coss) Brown, and granddaughter of James and, Hannah (Meady) Brown. Their only son, James E., is mentioned at. page 94. Eugene A. Brown, born January 30, 1851, is a son of James F. and, Olive (Wells) Brown, grandson of Nathaniel and Nancy (Lyon) Brown,. and great-grandson of Joseph and Charlotte (Tinges) Brown. Mr. Brown is a farmer in Chelsea, though he devotes some attention to- shoemaking. He married June 18, 1870, Jennie L. Dunton, who is overseer of the stitching department of the Hallowell shoe factory. Their children are: Burton, Eugene and Carrie May. George Brown. — John Brown", born in England in 1715, emi grated to America about 1750, and settled in Charlestown, Mass.. where he was a man of wealth and influence. He was loyal to the British at the beginning of the revolution, and refused to take any precaution for the protection of his property from the British invaders, declaring that the fact of his loyalty to the king would be sufficient protection. When Charlestown was attacked his house was the first to be de stroyed, and with it the family silver and other valuables. He soon after removed to Nova Scotia, with those of his sons who favored the Crown, his wife and part of the children remaining in Massachusetts, but none of the large estate was ever secured to them. '-(L>{n-flg/ ^o-tT-^t^-ru- PRINT BIERSTADT. TOWN OF CHELSEA. 757 Joseph Brown3, one of the sons, was born in Charlestown, Mass., in 1754. He married Charlotte Tinges, cf Massachusetts, in 1777, and soon after came to Maine, settling on the east bank of the Kennebec river, opposite the island that has since borne his name. He was a successful farmer and lumberman until his death, in 1825. James Brown", one of his ten children, was born at the homestead April 14, 1782, where he died October 27, 1858. His business and saw mill operations in Chelsea are noticed in the earlier pages of this chapter. His wife, Hannah Meady, bore him nine children: Hannah, Thomas, James, David, John, George, Lucy, Charlotte and Eliza. George Brown", the sixth of this family, was born September 30, 1816. on the farm where he now lives, which has been in the family for more than a century. The common school education which he received served to stimulate rather than to satisfy his taste for knowl edge. The foundation thus laid has been built upon by a thorough course of reading, which he has pursued regularly for the past fifty years. He is thoroughly conversant with the topics of the day, as well as sacred and profane history, of which he has been a close and criti cal student for many years. Being a farmer, he has always been keenly interested in the im provements of agriculture, and has been a prominent factor in various agricultural organizations. He was the first president of the South Kennebec Agricultural Society, and is now serving his fourth term in that position. He is a republican in politics, and though not a politician, he has been several times chosen to fill responsible offices in his native town. He has been a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal church since 1843, and his habits and character are above reproach. His first marriage, May 13, 1841, was with Mary A. Thomas, a sister of Captain J. B. Thomas, mentioned in Chapter XXVII. She died August 6, 1875, leaving one daughter, Araminta T., now Mrs. Green leaf W. Ward, of Vassalboro. Her two children are: Mary Brown and Josephine Thomas Ward. Mr. Brown's second marriage, which occurred March 14, 1877, was with Mrs. Abbie J. Clifford, widow of Captain Edwin W.Clifford. She is a daughter of Green and Sarah J. (Greeley) Longfellow, of Augusta. Mrs. Brown is a lady of genial bearing, a broad, well disciplined mind, and rare courage. She made several sea voyages with Captain Clifford, who commanded vessels in the merchant service. While on these voyages she studied navigation as a pastime, and when the ne cessity came of putting her knowledge of chart and compass to the test, her courage was not wanting. During her last sea voyage, which was on the brig bearing her name, while south of the equator, Cap tain Clifford, his mate, steward, and two of his seamen died of yellow fever. She, the only person left on board who understood navigation, 758 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. assumed command of the vessel on the 10th of April, 1872, and with the aid of her crew brought it with its valuable cargo, to New York, her port of destination, arriving on the 12th of May, 1872. Here, in Chelsea, on the shore of the beautiful Kennebec, Mr. Brown is passing in rural peace the evening time of an active day, enjoying with his estimable wife, the well-merited esteem of a wide circle of intelligent contemporaries. William S. Chase, born in 1846, son of John and Eliza (Maker) Chase, and grandson of Samuel Chase, is a farmer, owning a farm of what is called the intervale of Chelsea. His first wife, Mary Hum phreys, died leaving one daughter, Maud. His present wife was Abbie Winter. Their children are: Fred, Samuel E. and William A. Henry M. Clark, youngest of three sons of Henry and Sarah (Stick ney) Clark, and grandson of Thomas Clark, was born in 1854. His father died in 1859, aged forty-nine years. Mr. Clark is a farmer. He married Mildreth, daughter of Thomas J. Fitzgerald, and their chil dren are: Arobene, Inza and William J. Mr. Clark has two brothers — George T., of California, and James W., who lives at the home stead. Stephen Cobb, son of Benjamin Cobb, was born in 1830 in Pitts field, and died in Chelsea in 1886. He came to Chelsea from his na tive town, where he was teacher and farmer, and held various town offices. He served one year in the late war in Company K, 21st Maine, enlisting as orderly sergeant. He married Harriet, sister of William T. Searls, of Chelsea. Their children were: Stephen A., Charles S., William O., George A., Hattie M., Florence E. and three that died. Alfred Davenport6, born September 22, 1807, is the only surviving child of Jonathan" and Joanna (Bradbury) Davenport (Jonathan4 and Susanah White Davenport, Ebenezer3 and Submit Howe Davenport, Ebenezer2, and Thomas Davenport1, who was at Dorchester, Mass., in 1640). Jonathan Davenport4 came from Dorchester, Mass., to the farm where Alfred now lives in 1762, and was the first town clerk of Hallowell. Mr. Davenport married Almira, daughter of Thomas and granddaughter of Thomas Kennedy. Her mother, Sally, was a daugh ter of Joseph and granddaughter of John Weeks. They have one adopted daughter, Elizabeth S. (Mrs. F. E. Sager). Alonzo P. Gardner, born in 1838, is a son of Ambrose and Lucinda (Howe) Gardner, and grandson of Joel Gardner, who came from Vas salboro to Chelsea, where he owned and operated a saw mill which was afterw-ard owned and run by his son, Ambrose. Mr. Gardner spent five years in California. Since 1864 he has owned the home stead where he now lives. He is a farmer and keeps a livery stable. He married Frances M., daughter of Jacob Pike, and has one son, John H. Henry W. Gaslin, born in 1830 in Vassalboro, is a son of Jacob and TOWN OF CHELSEA. 759 Ann (Palmer) Gaslin, and grandson of John Gaslin, who came from Ireland when two years old and. was among the early settlers of Vas salboro. Mr. Gaslin was a saw mill operator and farmer until 1865, and from that time until 1881 he was at sea, mostly as engineer of a steamer between New York ancl Savannah. He was a farmer in Chelsea from 1881 until June, 1885, since which time he has kept a store at Togus. He married Emeline, daughter of Adam and Betsey (Bailey) Hutchin son. Their children were: Josephine, and one that died, Hettie. John L. Gray, son of Benjamin and Alice (Withem) Gray, was born in Dresden, Me., August 22, 1807. He learned the blacksmith trade with his father and followed that trade in connection with farming and cattle driving until 1874. He lived in China from 1840 until 1863, when he came to Pittston, and in 1874 came to the farm where he now lives. He was selectman of China two terms, several terms juror at Augusta and one term juror in the United States circuit court at Port land; and was twice chosen to represent his district in the house of representatives. His book learning was limited, but his practical knowledge has been demonstrated by the public positions he has held. His first marriage was with Elizabeth Francis. Their children were: John C, Lemuel (deceased), Lydia, Harriet and Dora. John C. is a lawyer at Oroville, Cal., where he was made judge in 1890. Mr. Gray's present wife was Margaret Given. Daniel S. Heath, born in 1847, is a son of Shurbern and Hannah J. (Clifford) Heath, grandson of David and great-grandson of Asa Heath. Shurbern Heath was a cooper by trade and came from New Hamp shire to Pittston in 1836. Daniel S. was engaged as toll gatherer and assistant tender on the Gardiner and Pittston bridge from 1865 until 1890. In 1889 he bought the N. R. Winslow farm, where he now lives. J. Howard Hunt, born November 28, 1840, is a son of Caleb, grand son of Ephraim, and great-grandson of Daniel Hunt, of Wareham, Mass. His mother, Hannah, was a daughter of Philip Bullen, son of Samuel Bullen, who in 1763 came from Billerica, Mass., to what is now Chelsea, and the same year received a deed from the original Ken nebec proprietors for the farm where Mr. Hunt now lives. Mr. Hunt was two years treasurer and collector of the town and has held other town offices. He married Ann M., daughter of Wentworth Hayes, and their children are: Millie M., Chauncey W., Marcia H., Sadie E., Han nah B. and Maurice, who'died in infancy. Joseph E. Lewis, born in Bowdoin in 1843, is a son of Thomas S. Lewis and grandson of Captain Thomas M. Lewis. He served two years in the late war in Company B, 15th Maine; he enlisted as private and was discharged as quartermaster sergeant. He was a bookkeeper in Boston until 1870, and since that time has been a machinist and engineer. Since June 1, 1887, he has been chief engineer at the 760 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. National Home, at Togus. He married in Boston, in 1867, Marcella Rogers, of Windsor, who died June 22, 1892. They had three children: Ralph, J. Arthur and Byron. Otis W. Littlefield, born March 19, 1843, is a son of William and Sarah Louisa (Whitten) Littlefield, grandson of William B. and great- grandson of Seth Littlefield, who died in 1804, and was buried in the family cemetery on the farm where he settled when he came to the town. Mr. Littlefield is engaged in farming and the milk business, and owns and occupies the Major Stickney farm of 125 acres. He was one year selectman, four years town clerk and one year auditor of Chelsea. His wife, Emma J. Turner, died leaving eight children: Ella A., Louie F., A. Belle, Charles O., Fred W., Harry R., Clara L. and Lucy E. Palmer S. Moody, born in 1825, is a son of Richard and Polly (Cooper) Moody, and grandson of Scribner and Martha (Bailey) Moody. He is a farmer, and in 1850 settled on the farm where he now lives. He married Antoinette W., daughter of Benjamin and Eunice (Fountain) Hall. Isaac F. Plummer, born in 1854, at Jefferson, is a son of Isaac and Lucinda Plummer, and grandson of Benjamin Plummer. He has lived in Chelsea since 1869, where he is a farmer. He has devoted some attention to local newspaper correspondence. He served as town clerk in 1889 and 1S90. John Pope, born in 1823, in Windsor, was a son of Edward and Hannah (Tibbets) Pope. He was engaged in various kinds of busi ness in Windsor, where he lived for several years. In 1883 he came to Chelsea, where he died in July, 1887. He married in 1846, Mary A., daughter of James and Betsey (Johnson) Given, and granddaughter of David Given. Their two children were: Algie M., who died, and Lizzie A. Mark L. Rollins, born in 1843, is one of three sons of Washington and Hannah (Little) Rollins, and grandson of Nathaniel Rollins, who was a soldier in the war of 1812. He has devoted his attention to various business enterprises, including the ice, milk and meat busi ness. Since 1889 he has been constable of Chelsea. He was repre sentative from his district in 1890 and was appointed deputy sheriff August 11, 1891. He married Etta S., daughter of Benjamin Flitner, ¦ of Pittston. Ashford A. Sampson, born in 1844 in Bowdoinham, is a son of Cannon and Eleanor (Jack) Sampson. Mr. Sampson was employed from 1864 until 1884 at the insane hospital at Augusta, fourteen years of the time as head farmer. Since 1884 he has lived in Chelsea and is a farmer. He is now one of the board of selectmen. He married Mary Frazier, of Pictou, N. S. Their children are: Ella M., William A. and Donald F. TOWN OF CHELSEA. 761 William T. Searls, whose father's father and whose mother's father both came from Walpole, N. H., to Wilton, Me., was born Sep tember 1, 1833, in Pittston. His father, Thomas Searls, born August 11, 1803, at Wilton, Me., was the second of twelve children. At the age of twelve years he lost his left leg from the effects of a fever sore. When he was fourteen years old he came from Wilton to Pittston, where he learned the tailor's trade, but not liking the business, he afterward learned shoemaking, and followed that business till 1833, when he came to what was then East Hallowell, now Chelsea. April 9, 1829, Thomas Searls married Mary A. Kidder, of Pittston, by whom he had three boys and three girls. Two boys, the younger of whom is the William T. of this sketch, and one girl were born in Pittston. The home of Thomas and his family, the first winter they spent in East Hallowell, was a camp near the Togus stream. One Sunday he found a good water power on that stream, and the next year (1834), in company with Philip Bullen and James Brown, he built a saw mill there, and each of the three men built a house near by, all of which are gone now. In 1850 Thomas Searls' first wife died and the same year he married Malintha D. Towns, by whom he had one boy and three girls. He was active, observing and intelligent. He paid considerable attention to Freemasonry, in which he was well advanced and well informed. He was a strong temperance man. Such a man usually has a taste for public affairs, and we accordingly find him a selectman in 1851, 1858 and 1860, and moderator of town meeting in 1857. He was also overseer of the poor in 1861, school committee in 1863, town collector and treasurer in 1863, 1864 and 1865, and in 1866 he was again a selectman. His active and useful life closed in 1877. Such a father would train his children to habits of industry and mental growth. William T. went to school winters and learned dur ing the balance of the year the routine of farm and mill work, till he was nineteen years of age Two years later, in 1854, he bought fifty- four acres of land of his father, and went to work and paid for it. Later he purchased another farm, cut and sold a great deal of hay, bought a press and helped his neighbors get their hay ready for market. This kind of industry and thrift soon paid for the second farm. Later on, a few years after the decease of his brother, David, which occurred in 1863, he purchased the farm he left, nearly all of which is in his possession now. November 29, 1860, he married Susan R. Tasker, daughter of Ben jamin and Mahala (Savage) Tasker, of Readfield, now part of Man chester. Their children have been: Susan E., born August 16, 1862, now a school teacher; Herbert W., born January 31, 1864. died March 6, 1882; Edmund D., born April 13, 1869; Thomas, born July 31, 1871; Mary A., born May 25,1876; Sadie E., born December 13, 1878, and 762 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC county. died March 7, 1880; and Lettie B., born June 13, 1880. Edmund D., Thomas and Mary A. are all at the Kents Hill school. Successful management of private affairs is one good measure of ability for public service. In this case there was evidently an adapta tion for both. In 1861 Mr. Searls was elected one of the constables of Chelsea, and held the office sixteen of the ensuing twenty years. Between 1868 and 1891 he served fifteen years as selectman, overseer of the poor and assessor, acting as chairman ten of those years. He was collector of taxes and treasurer for his town five years, and was chosen moderator from 1886 to 1891. He has been a member of the board of health since that law was passed and for a while was deputy sheriff. Mr. Searls was elected a member of the legislature, where he served on the insane hospital and on the public printing committees. He has always been a republican, and since he was twenty' years old he has been an active member and for many years an officer in the Randolph Methodist Episcopal church. As soon as his age made him eligible he was made a Mason by Hermon Lodge, Gardiner, to which he still belongs. When the Chelsea Grange, P. of H., was organized he be came its first master, and has been master or secretary nearly every year since. He has been identified for twenty years with the Sons of Temperance and was the first citizen of Chelsea to join Soldiers' Di vision, No. 5. This is a partial record of the life of a faithful man, not yet sixty years old. Mr. and Mrs. Searls have a bright, promising family and a happy home — the greatest of earthly blessings. Alden W. Stevens, son of Reuben Stevens, was born in Northfield, Mass., in 1843. He was in the army three months in 1861, and from December, 1863, to August, 1866, was in the 57th Massachusetts, Com pany F. In July, 1883, he came to the National Home at Togus, where he was an inmate until March, 1890, when he was discharged. While at the home he was employed in the treasurer's office one year and in the post office the balance of his stay there. Since 1890 he has kept an eating saloon and cigar store one mile north of Togus. He married in 1890, Harriet, daughter of John Smith, of England. She came to America in 1872. James S. Tenney, born in 1851, is a son of Enoch A. and Sarah O. (White) Tenney and grandson of Samuel Tenney. He is a farmer • and owns the farm that was owned by his mother's father, James White, and was settled by his father, Benjamin White. Mr. Tenney was two years selectman of Chelsea. He married Ann Elizabeth Chapman. William E. Trask, born in 1837, is a son of Samuel and Alvira Trask and grandson of Edwin, whose father, Joseph, was a son of Samuel Trask. Mr. Trask is a farmer, and in 1870 he bought the farm tijitiN PRINT, E. BIERSTADT, TOWN OF CHELSEA. 763 of one hundred acres where he now lives. He married M. Ellen, daughter of James and Martha J. (Coss) Brown, and granddaughter of James and Hannah (Meady) Brown. Mrs. Trask died March 12, 1890, leaving three children: Etta A. (Mrs. Samuel Packard), William B. and Bessie A. Colonel Ezra C. Stevens, born in Gardiner in 1845, is a son of Ezra A. and Naomi Stevens. He was educated in the public schools and at Hallowell Academy. He served seventeen years as chief clerk in the railway mail service between Boston and Bangor, and four years as post office inspector, having charge of the First division, which includes Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and the northern section of New York. He was postmaster at Hallowell and was appointed by Gov ernor Marble as municipal judge, but declined to serve ; was private secretary to Governors Bodwell, Marble and Burleigh; also commis sioned by Governor Burleigh as aid-de-camp on his military staff, with rank of lieutenant colonel. Mr. Stevens has been a resident of Chel sea for the past six years, where he is trial justice. He is a republican and has always taken an active part in politics. George Woodbury, son of William and Martha (Murry) Woodbury, was born in Windsor in 1824, and has lived in Chelsea since 1840, where he has been engaged in saw mill work and farming. He was several years employed by the government running a steam saw mill on the Togus Home property. He married in 1850, Emeline, daugh ter of John and Jane (Freeman) Dearborn, and granddaughter of Henry and Permelia (McKnight) Dearborn. John H. Yeaton, born in Chelsea in 1826, is a son of John and Abi gail (Rollins) Yeaton, and grandson of Phineas and Pheba Yeaton, who came from Berwick to Chelsea in 1798. Mr. Yeaton went to Bos ton in 1845, where he learned the carpenter's trade, and from May, 1859, until he bought the farm where he now lives in 1879, he was employed at the insane hospital and nearly all the time he had charge of the carpenter work there. He married Cynthia D. Howe, and their children are: Frank H., who is a farmer and contractor on the Pacific coast; George A., who was traveling salesman for several years, but is now at home helping to run the farm; and Sarah C, deceased. Joseph Young, born in 1827, is one of eleven children of Thomas and Rebecca (Kies) Young and grandson of Hezekiah Young, who was born in England and died in Wiscasset, Me. Mr. Young followed the sea for six years and from 1850 to 1866 he was gold mining in California. Since 1867 he has lived in Chelsea, a farmer on a part of the old Davis farm. He married Catherine, daughter of Joseph H. Ellis. Their children are: Allen J., Fannie P., William H., Katie M., Fred B. and George T. Thomas Young was a soldier in the war of 1812. He came from Damariscotta to Kennebec county in 1828. 49 CHAPTER XXX. TOWN OF MONMOUTH. By Harry H. Cochrane. Land Features.— Ponds.— Indian Names.— Area. — Boundaries.— Surface. — Soil. —Settlers. —Civil History. — Churches. — Schools. —Villages. — Post Offices. — Societies. — Military. — Industries. — Personal Paragraphs. WITH its breastwork of hills guarding every quarter, and its out lying moat of ponds and streams, Monmouth, as it appears on the map, is a strong reminder of one of the baronial fast nesses of the days of the Plantagenets. On the north, Mount Pisgah, catching a foothold on the boundary, springs far above all neighbor ing hills, and descends with a long sweep along the Wayne line to the foot of Berry pond, in Winthrop, nearly four miles from its starting point. From the crown of this hill the range of view over-reaches everything in the north and east to Mount Desert, the Camden hills and Mars hill, and the Haystacks of Aroostook county, except the Dix- mont mountains. East from Pi'sgah, a short chain of low hills follows the northern boundary down to the shore of South pond, where it meets another range which passes through the center of the town, swelling up at a point about half its length, and again at its south ern terminus, into two prominent hills which respectively bear the names of Stevens' and Sawyer's. A chain on the east, the highest points of which are known as Pease and Oak hills, follows the line to its southern extremity, where it throws off the shoot known as the Ridge, which, again, clings to the southern boundary. On the west a high range commanding a grand view of the Oxford hills and White mountains rises from the rim of the Cochnewagan, and, bearing a little east of north, gradually descends with a series of bounds until it falls at the foot of Mount Pisgah. From the northwest to southeast angles, five ponds with their tributaries form a complete water line; while the first of these, the Androscoggin, stretches out a long arm which cross-stitches the entire western boundary, and nearly meets the Jocmunyaw on the south. Before the days of dams and bridges, the native boatman could, by carrying his canoe over short portages, aggregating only about two miles, circumnavigate the town— a distance of more than TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 705 twenty miles. Of these ponds, the one lying next to the Androscog gin received the name Wilson, from a white hunter who was drowned in it by Indians. The next two south are Anabessacook, generally called South Pond, and the Cobbosseecontee. Concerning the name of the Cochnewagan, a pond about one and a half miles long by one- half mile wide near the Center village, there is considerable contro versy. Drake, who is considered good authority on questions relating to the aborigines, claims that the literal translation of the word is, " a place of praying Indians," while the natives themselves cling to the inter pretation, " a battle, or fight." From abundant evidence, both tra ditional and circumstantial, we are led to believe that the celebrated Cochnewagas who, in 1690, destroyed the town of Schenectady, N. Y., once made the shores of this pond their camping ground. The Joc- munyaw received its name from John — or " Jock," as he was familiarly known — Munyaw, who made the banks of the stream his principal resort. The town of Monmouth embraces an area of nearly twenty-five square miles. It was originally a part of the Plymouth patent, and when incorporated as a plantation included the territory now the town of Wales. It is nearly square, with its northwest, southeast and southwest angles a trifle acute; although the comparatively recent sacrifice of a few acres on the north and south to the towns of Win throp and Wales has broken the geometrical straightness of the lines. It is bounded on the north by Winthrop and Wayne, on the east by Litchfield and the Cobbosseecontee, south by Wales, and on the west by Greene and Leeds. The surface is generally broken, abounding in rich, gravelly loam, resting on a sparsely covered granite base, which crops out frequently in the northeastern part of the town. The soil is admirably adapted to farming and orcharding, and, in its primeval state, supported some of the heaviest timber ever grown in Maine. It is claimed that of all the lots into which the territory was subdi vided, not one proved unproductive. Early Settlers. — Thomas Gray, an old hunter and trapper, liv ing in that part of Brunswick known as New Meadows, while on a hunting expedition discovered the chain of lakes that encircles the town. He returned to his neighbors with glowing accounts of the wonderful section abounding in fine meadow grass — a product of con siderable importance in those days — and so excited them that they determined to join him in forming a settlement on the new*ly discov ered territory. In the summer or fall of 1774, Gray, accompanied by Reuben Ham, Joseph Allen, Philip Jenkins and Jonathan Thompson, all from New Meadows, came in to cut and stack a quantity of " blue- joint " and fell some trees. The following winter, as soon as the streams were frozen, Gray and his son, James, a lad. of fourteen or fif teen years, drove in the cattle belonging to these men and built a rude 766 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. log hut. This— the first cabin erected between Winthrop and Web ster — stood somewhere on the meadow south of D. H. Dearborn's. All their provisions, as well as cooking utensils and other necessary arti cles, were brought in on their backs. The following spring Gray, Ham, Allen, Jenkins and Thompson moved in with their families. Gray settled on land now owned by D. H. Dearborn, and the others on adjacent lots farther south. The first few years a large portion of 'the provisions had to be pro cured at Brunswick, Topsham and Bath. When the crops failed these men were often obliged to make their way through the tangled forest a distance of twenty-five miles to purchase corn, and then return with it on their backs. It was no uncommon thing for one of them to carry a bushel the entire distance in a day. Wild meat was abundant. Part ridges could be shot from the door-way, and bears, moose and deer captured without difficulty. When Gray took up his lot, there was a family of beavers living in the meadow southeast of D. H. Dearborn's. They had a large dam, the remains of which may still be seen. He set a trap for them, but when, after a few days, he returned to carry away his beaver, he found neither game nor trap. After a long and unavailing search, he cut a hole in the dam, letting the water out, and found his trap on the bed of the brook with a stout beaver in its jaws. On the bog between Monmouth and Leeds beaver-dams were then abundant. The first two or three years after the Brunswick colony was established, bears and moose were killed in large numbers. The last moose killed in this vicinity was discovered by James Gray in Sabattis swamp. The intrepidity of these pioneers was remarkable. Thomas Gray carried to the grave a mangled and w-ithered hand — the result of holding it in a bear's throat while Reuben Ham despatched the animal from behind with an axe. At the end of two years six other families came from New Meadows. They were those of John Welch, Ichabod Baker, Alexander Thomp son, Hugh Mulloy, John Austin, and Benjaoni Austin. Welch built his cabin a few rods west of M. L. Getchell's, and took up nearly two hundred acres of wild land having for its northern boundary the range- way on which Maple street was subsequently laid out, and extending as far south as the northern limit of the land appropriated by Ichabod Baker, who settled on the place now owned by Mrs. Ambrose Beal. Welch was the lineal ancestor of Prof. Rodney Welch, of the Chicago Times, and Lorettus S. Metcalf, founder and late editor of the Forum. Thompson settled on the lot now known as the "Widow Ann Blake place," on High street; Mulloy, on the farm now owned by R. G. Bickford, south of the Center; John Austin, on the Blossom place, which included all the land on the west side of Main street, between Maple street and the town house, and Benjaoni Austin on the "great bog," near the Leeds line. Benjaoni Austin was a man nearly sixty TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 767 years old. He asserted, with evident pride, that his grandfather was a brother of the Indian King Philip. Two years later, or about 1781, Peter Hopkins and Captain James Blossom came in. Hopkins was an Englishman. He came from Bos ton, but probably stopped in Hallowell or Augusta before coming to this place. He made a clearing on the farm now known as the John son place, at North Monmouth, near the Winthrop line. Captain Blossom came from Barnstable, Cape Cod. He bought John Austin's claim, and Austin went over to the " great bog " and made a clearing on the farm now owned by John Plummer. Blossom's cabin did not, as many suppose, stand on the site of the "old Blossom house," now the ell of Brown's Hotel, but beyond the upper dam, north of Cochne- wagan pond. The Blossom farm embraced all the land now owned by the heirs of the late Jacob Shorey. In the course of a few months several other families moved from New Meadows and joined their old neighbors. They were those of James Weeks, Nathan Stanley, Zadoc Bishop, Christopher Stevens, Samuel Simmons, William Welch, Samuel Welch, Edward Welch, Oliver Hall, Timothy Wight and John Fish. Weeks settled on the J. W. Goding farm. His cabin stood about half way between High street and the residence of Miss Charlotte Harvey. He subsequently sold his claim and moved into the edge of Winthrop. From Winthrop he removed to Lewiston, and afterward exchanged places with Josiah Straw and came back to Monmouth. Stanley settled on the place where M. M. Richardson now lives. He sold his clearing to Joel Chandler and removed to Winthrop, where many of his descendants now reside. Zadoc Bishop built his cabin near the Wilson stream, about twenty rods southeast of the south wing of Gorden's mill-dam. When General Dearborn built his mill at East Monmouth, he backed the water up until it covered Bishop's farm almost to the door-stone. He then removed to Bishop's hill, in Leeds. Christopher Stevens settled on the corner lot at the junction of the main road from Win throp with the Academy road, a few rods north of the residence of Benjamin Ellis. The Welch brothers did not remain here long. One of them made a clearing at the head of Cochnewagan pond, near the smelt brook. Timothy Wight settled on the Bishop place, opposite J. P. Richard son's, near the Winthrop line. A few years later he exchanged farms with Caleb Fogg who, in the meantime, had settled at the head of Cochnewagan pond. Fish settled on the place where Benjamin Ellis now lives. He was the first tavern keeper in the settlement. His house was a rendezvous for all the tipplers of the place. He purchased his liquors at Hallowell, and, as his pocket book never carried the equivalent of more than two or three quarts of the " ardent " at one 768 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. time, must have been a valuable assistant in leveling the highway be tween the settlement and Kennebec river. In selecting lots these pioneers almost invariably made choice of land in the vicinity of the meadows. When Gray and his companions were cutting grass on the intervales, the summer before they started the settlement, each man selected the land upon which he afterward built his cabin. Gray, Allen, Ham, Jenkins and Thompson selected the meadow east of D. H. Dearborn's; Austin, Welch, Mulloy, Blos som and Baker afterward settled near the meadow east of the Center, and Bishop and Hopkins near the lowlands irrigated by the Wilson stream. The Austins and James Labree, John Austin's son-in-law, who came through the woods from New Meadows soon after his wife's relatives, drawing on a hand-sled all his worldly possessions, pitched their tents near the Leeds bog. A terrible disappointment awaited these men. It was commonly reported that the land was once owned by one of the Vassals, a tory, of Boston, and had been confiscated during the revolution; so the early settlers called their new home Freetown. Those who came a little later supposed that the payment of a few pence per acre to the commonwealth, to which the estates would, by virtue of the confisca tion act, belong, would satisfy all demands. Great was their conster nation when the proprietor, who had returned to his estates as soon as the treaty of peace was signed, demanded excessive payments on ac count of improvements that the settlers themselves had made. They immediately took action against the unjust claims, and bound them selves together by their " words, honors and the penal sum of one hundred pounds, lawful money," to resist any attempt to recover more than three shillings, lawful money, per acre for the land. Had they purchased their lots when they first settled on them, this sum would have been eagerly accepted by the proprietor; but after protracted litigation and considerable resistance on the part of the settlers who, in some instances, attempted to defend their rights by force of arms, they were forced to succumb to a payment of two or three dollars per acre. Soon after the close of the revolutionary war, General Henry Dear born, whose renown as secretary of war and commander-in-chief of the United States army it is necessary to mention only to distinguish him from his nephew, General Dearborn, whom some of our older citizens distinctly remember, came to look after the 5,000 acres of wild land which he had taken in exchange for some property in New Hampshire. He found, " squatting " on his purchase, Hugh Mulloy, whom he ejected, after giving his note to the amount of " fifty Span ish milled dollars " for the clearing he had made. In this clearing General Dearborn erected the first building in the settlement that could, with propriety, be termed a house. It was, like the abodes of TOWN, OF MONMOUTH. 769 all the early inhabitants, built of logs; but the logs were hewed square, and, in all points, it was far superior to the rude cabins by which it was surrounded. This building was taken down at a date within the writer's recollection, and used in framing one of the outbuildings on the Bickford place. Not far from 1782, two of General Dearborn's brothers — Simon and Benjamin — and six neighbors — Caleb Fogg, James Norris, Josiah Brown, Daniel Gilman, Gilman Moody and John Chandler — came from Epping, N. H., and took up farms, principally on his land. At about the same time, Daniel Allen, Peter Lyon, Josiah Whittredge, Gorden Freas, Nathaniel Smith, Benjamin Stockin and Nathaniel Brainerd came. Simon Dearborn found John Fish, the tavern keeper, on his land. Fish refused to accept a reasonable compensation for his im provements, and defied Dearborn's claim. After considerable con test, in which Fish endeavored to gain by fraud what he could not by right, he was forcibly expelled. Benjamin Dearborn settled on the corner that bears his name, below the Center. He was a shoemaker, as was, also, Josiah Brown, who settled a few rods south of him, on the Wales road, where the ruins of the chimney he built may still be seen. The house was destroyed by fire a few years ago. Caleb Fogg settled, first, at the head of Cochnewagan pond, and, later, on the farm now owned and occupied by B. M. Prescott, on High street. He served many years as an itinerant preacher of the Meth odist connection. Of a large number of descendants, Rev. John B. Fogg is the only one now living in the town who bears the name. Daniel Gilman, the progenitor of all of that name now residing in town, took up the farm now owned by Dea. Daniel Pierce, one mile south of the Center. The lot then included the land of Mr. Stewart on the opposite side of the road. Gilman, like many others, lost his farm, and, at an advanced age, started anew on land opposite E. K Prescott's, west of the academy, where he spent the remainder of his days. His house disappeared many years ago. Gilman Moody made a clearing at the head of Cochnewagan pond, which he exchanged, shortly, with Timothy Wight, for the Bishop place at North Mon mouth. Moody seems to have had a mania for making new clearings. In addition to those already mentioned, he partially cleared the farms owned by George L. King, south of the Center, and that of Phineas Nichols, at East Monmouth, on both of which he lived for a time, and on the latter of which he died. He was a local preacher of the Meth odist church. Daniel Allen settled at the outlet of South pond, Peter Lyon on the Greenlief Smith place, on the main road between North Monmouth and the Center, and Gorden Freas on the place owned by the late Mrs. Nancy K. Prescott, north of the academy. He sold his possessions to Captain Sewall Prescott and returned to New Hampshire. Nathaniel 770 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Brainerd and Thomas Stockin settled near the outlet of Wilson pond, and Nathaniel Smith on the M. M. Richardson place, near Ellis' Corner, which he purchased of Nathan Stanley. He subsequently sold out to Abraham Morrill and moved over beyond Norris hill, where he died. James Norris settled on the place where his grand son, George W. Norris, now lives, on Norris hill. He was a commis sioned officer in the revolutionary army and married a niece of Gen eral Henry Dearborn. Accompanied by his wife, who rode a horse and carried a small child, he walked the entire distance from Epping. John Chandler bought James Weeks' claim— the J. W. Goding farm of to-day — near the academy. It is generally supposed that Chandler built the first framed house in the settlement, and that it afterward became the ell of his mansion, which was destroyed by fire in 1880. It is a well authenticated fact, however, that the first framed house was built by Alexander Thompson, on or near the spot where the small yellow house now stands on the " Widow Ann Blake place," to which previous reference has been made John Chandler lived in this build ing the year after he came from New Hampshire, which gave rise to the supposition already mentioned. There are six different claimants to the honor of erecting the first framed house, and, indeed, the ones raised by Chandler, Josiah Brown, John Welch and Ichabod Baker came into existence so soon after that it is only fair to mention them. Welch's and Baker's were raised the same day. John Chandler's life was an eventful one. When he came into the settlement, he was not only distressingly poor, but illiterate in the ex treme. From a traveling pedagogue he learned to read and write and, possibly, the rudiments of mathematics. All his spare hours he de voted to study, being assisted by his wife, who worked with him in his blacksmith's shop, in the field clearing and piling smutty logs and in planting and harvesting. Wherever a dollar was to be found, there you would find Chandler. He was blacksmith, trader, tavern keeper and general jobber. In General Dearborn he had an influential friend, and it was probably as much his influence as Chandler's ability that placed him, in 1803, among the councillors and senators in the general court of Massachusetts. In 1815 he represented the Kennebec district in congress. Next he was appointed high sheriff. In 1812 he became a major general of the state militia, and, later, the same year, was ap pointed brigadier general of the forces sent to the northern frontier. In 1819 he was a member of the general court, at Boston, and assisted in drafting the constitution of Maine. He was first president of the Maine senate, and was one of the two first United States senators from Maine. His last official appointment was that of collector of the port of Portland, under President Jackson. He was, unless we except General Dearborn, the most prominent man in Maine, and beside his TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 771 state and national appointments, he was more than fifty times elected to public office by the people. Joel Chandler, the- general's brother, soon followed him from Epping. He was drowned only a few clays after his arrival, while en gaged in surveying near South pond. His son, Major General Joseph Chandler, spent the most of his boyhood in the family of his uncle John. He was fond of books, and spent a large portion of his time in reading, studying and assisting the general in his studies. He com piled a reading book entitled " The Young Gentlemen's and Ladies' Museum," which was widely used in the public schools. Soon after General Dearborn built his mill at the outlet of South pond, young Chandler erected a store there and engaged in trade. Later, he re ceived a captain's commission in the United States army and was sta tioned at one of the forts in Portland harbor. After leaving the army he returned to Monmouth and built the house on High street, known many years as the "Newton Prescott stand," and a store a few rods farther north. The house was taken down about six years ago to make room for a modern dwelling. The store was removed to the Center. In 1811 he was appointed clerk of courts for Kennebec county and removed to Augusta. For many years a continual stream of immigration poured from Epping and adjacent towns. Somewhere near 1788 a trio composed of Captain Sewall Prescott and James and John Judkins came from this point. James Judkins had been here prior to that time working for General Dearborn. He returned to Epping in the fall and re mained there until April, when, in company with his brother and Prescott, he started on foot, bearing on his back a pack of about thirty pounds weight, containing all his earthly possessions, as did, also, the others. Thus loaded, and hindered by the natural obstacles of the forest, they managed to cover about thirty miles a day. Prescott took up the claim of Gorden Freas. The latter, deluded by the free-land rumor, had cut a small opening near the spot where the old " gun house " used to stand. He was a poor man and had no prospect of paying for his farm. He returned to Epping, whence he came. Pres cott was a blacksmith. The " Old Fort," which he erected in 1802 for a tavern, stands very near the spot where he built his first shelter. James Judkins made a clearing on the John Barrows place. They took the precaution of shipping a year's supply of provisions to Hal lowell before starting from New Hampshire. After Captain Peter Hopkins and Zadoc Bishop, who, as has been stated, took up a residence near North Monmouth in 1781, the first settler in that region was John Morgan, who cleared the Dea. Peter Blaisdell farm, now the property of Henry Allen. He was followed by Jeremy Hall, who came from Winthrop, and Thomas Stockin, from Mt. Vernon. A little earlier than 1790, probably, three other 772 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. families came from Mt. Vernon and settled near Stockin at the outlet of Wilson pond. Nathaniel Brainerd came first, but was soon fol lowed by Reuben Brainerd and Robert Hill. Thomas Stockin and his cat kept a bachelor's hall in a cabin that stood nearly opposite the upper dam. Hill settled a little farther south. The Brainerds did not remain in this part of the town more than a year or two. The eastern part of the town was the last to be settled. The first men who cut a way into the forest in this section came from Win throp and settled on tbe " Neck." Although Gail Cole was there as early as 1776, many years passed before he had a successor. Daniel Allen, the grandfather of L. L. Allen, was the next to take up land. He was followed by Reuben Brainerd, whose wife was Allen's sister, as was also the wife of William Read, who settled on the George Ma- comber place. Nearly all the " Neck " pioneers were from Massachu setts and Connecticut. Coming by way of Hallowell, they worked their way through into this town by degrees. The first few years they had very little to do with plantation affairs. Their interests were identical with those of their friends and relatives in Winthrop, and although they had crossed the line they were practically citizens of that town. It was not until Phineas Blake, sen., settled in East Mon mouth that that portion of the town was united, socially, with the other settlements. He also came from Epping, and was related by marriage to General Dearborn. He and his sons settled adjacent lots, gaving rise to the appellation "Blaketown," which was for many years used to designate that community. John Blake, the ancestor of Rev. John Blake Fogg, who settled on Norris hill; Asahel Blake, who set tled on the place now owned by Clarence Thompson, and Chase Blake, who took up the Chase Brown farm, in the Lyon district, all came from Epping, but were only distantly connected. John Torsey, the father of Henry P. Torsey, LL.D., D.D., settled a few rods east of Phineas Blake, and, about the same time, Captain William P. Kelly, the ances tor of the Winthrop family of that name, settled on the crown of Stevens' hill. He came from Meredith, Conn., dragging his house hold effects through the forest on a four-ox team. About 1810 serious troubles arose between these settlers and the proprietors of the Plymouth lands. Many of them, after expending years of hard toil on their lots, were forced to relinquish them to the lawful, if not rightful, owners, without remuneration for the improve ments they had made. Others, who bought their lots of the " squat ters " at a fair price, were called upon to pay exorbitant sums for the lands that were all but worthless before being cleared and cultivated. Among others, Alexander Thompson was a victim. Unable to pay the price that was demanded, he left everything — the result of years of weary toil— and pushed his way into the forests of the eastern part of the state to begin life again. TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 773 Being on the border between the rival claims of the Plymouth patent and the Pejepscot purchase, those who lived in the western part of the town suffered more severely than the early settlers of other towns. Many who succeeded in raising enough to satisfy the greed of the robbers on one side, were called upon by the other claimants, after the boundary was established, for another slice, with no redress from the first party. Thus driven to the wall the poor wretches began to show their teeth, and the proprietors, after a time, became convinced that surveying land and expelling squatters was not healthful employ ment. Judge Bridge, of Augusta, who with two others purchased the " Baker right," came to Monmouth to negotiate with his tenants. He came on a spirited horse and, after a remarkably brief visit, returned on a jaded pair of legs, his beast having been shot from an ambush. Civil History. — A committee appointed by the general court of Massachusetts visited the settlement in 1780, to learn the condition of the people and take preparatory steps toward incorporating the terri tory as a plantation. At this time between twenty and thirty families were scattered about on lands now included in the limits of the town, each of which was represented by one or more members qualified by the laws of the commonwealth to vote. Bloomingboro' — now Free town no longer, since it had been discovered that the land was not to be appropriated at the " squatters' " option — entered the realm of offi cial history in 1781. The following records call for no explanation: " By the desire of a number of inhabitants of Bloomingboro', the whole are hereby notified to meet at the house of Ichabod Bakers, on Friday, ye 24th day of August, 1781, at 12 of the clock, in order to act on the following articles. — First, to chuse a Moderator; 2dly, to chuse a Clark; 3dly, to see if the inhabitants will think proper to chuse one man to act as Capt. for the preasant year; 4thly, to see if the inhabi tants will accept the proposals made to them by the committee of the general court; 5thly, to act on any other thing that shall be thought proper by said inhabitants — Signed — Peter Hopkins, Hugh Mulloy, Christopher Stevens, John Austin, Jeames Weeks, Oliver Hall, Tim othy Wight, Nathan Stanley, James Blossom, William Welch, Edward Welch, Samuel Welch and John Fish." " Wales, Aug. ye 24th, 1781. At the above said meeting, voted, as follows, viz: lstly that the Destrict wherein we now reside shall be known by the name of Wales, beginning at the South line of Win throp, and running eight miles or thereabouts; 2dly, voted, that what ever tax or taxes the Hon. Gen. Court shall think proper to lay on said Destrict we levy and raise within ourselves. " Wales, Aug. ye 24th, 1781. Hugh Mulloy, Clark." The plantation was incorporated under the name of Wales, as a mark of respect for John Welch, whose ancestors were natives of the country bearing that name. 774 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Unfortunately, the records of the plantation have not been pre served except in scattered fragments. Enough has come down to us, however, to demonstrate the fact that as soon as the Epping immi grants appeared they assumed entire control of local affairs. The offi cers for the first year were: Peter Hopkins, moderator; Hugh Mulloy, clerk; Peter Hopkins, captain; Ichabod Baker, collector for the com monwealth. The officers for the ensuing decade included: — Modera tors: Captain Peter Hopkins, Major James Blossom, Captain James Blossom and Lieutenant Simon Dearborn. Clerks: James Blossom, 1782; John Chandler, 1787. Assessors: Jonathan Thompson, Peter Hopkins, James Blossom, Samuel Simmons, Levi Dearborn, Ichabod Baker, Major James Norris, Lieutenant Simon Dearborn, John Chand ler, Joel Chandler and Matthias Blossom. Collectors: Ichabod Baker, Thomas Gray, Joseph Allen, Jonathan Thompson, Gilman Moody, James Blossom and John Welch. Treasurers: James Blossom, Jona than Thompson and Levi Dearborn. The bounds of the plantation as determined at the first meeting were very indefinite. The matter was brought before the annual meeting of 1787, when it was " voted, to return as far south as Richard Thompsons, and easterly, so as to take in the Neck." In 1788 the collection of taxes was, for the first time, set up at " vendue," and the collector was required to furnish bonds. The custom then inaugurated remains unbroken. At a meeting held December 21, 1789, it was voted to petition for an act of incorporation and to call the. town Monmouth, in honor of General Henry Dearborn's brilliant and daring conduct at the battle of Monmouth, N. J. Simon Dearborn was selected to forward this petition to the general court. The instrument was drafted by Jede diah Jewell, Esq., of Pittston, and was presented in due time to the general court, which passed a resolve that the officers of the planta tion should define the bounds of the contemplated town, and make a plan and valuation roll of the same. It was therefore voted, at the annual plantation meeting of 1790, " to comply with the Resolve of Court, and raise the bounds of the town petitioned for to be incorpor- ated*by the name of Monmouth." This valuation report, submitted in 1792, shows the number of ratable polls to be 72, while the entire voting list enumerates but 62. This is accounted for by the fact that every male inhabitant above the age of sixteen was subject to taxa tion. There were reported 10 framed houses in town and 12 barns; of tillage land 22 acres, of mowing land 133 acres, meadow land 10 acres, pasture land 8-| acres. The wild land taxed to resident proprie tors was 5,057 acres while 13,269 acres were taxed to non-residents. There were only fifty-five families in the entire territory. The act of incorporation was passed January 20, 1792. All the business meetings were held in the unfinished, unfurnished chamber of John Welch's house. In 1793 it was voted to o-ive him TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 775 eighteen shillings for the use of his house the ensuing year, " he fix ing the same with floors and seats to raise." The " old yellow meet ing house " was used for town meetings from 1799 until 1844, when the town house was erected. To carry out the ancient custom of having a cemetery in close proximity to the meeting house, the town voted, in 1806, to " appro priate and relinquish for a Burying ground " a portion of the land given by Lady Temple, on which the church stood. The lot a6 bounded lay east of the town house. Later it was voted to change the location to the present site, on account of the wet condition of the land. Several bodies which had been buried in the low land were taken up and re-interred, near the street, in the new cemetery. The first victim that the " grim messenger " selected from among the set tlers was a child of Thomas Gray. It was buried on Gray's land, near the Wales line, and surrounding its grave quite a plot was set aside as a burying lot. From twenty-five to thirty bodies were interred there; but as the drift of population extended northward, it became necessary to have a cemetery more centrally located. A spot on the east side of the Wales road, nearly opposite the residence of George L. King, was selected. The land was owned by General Dearborn, and, from an article found in the records of an adjourned meeting held April 23, 1787, to the effect that " Benjamin Dearborn be over seer to keep the obligation that shall be drawn and signed to fence and clear the burying-ground, and see that the work is done," we are led to infer that he gave the land to the town, inasmuch as a com mittee was chosen, at the meeting held twenty-one days earlier, " to consult Col. Dearborn in relation to the burying-place." Not far from one hundred bodies were buried on this spot. Some of these were re- interred in the new cemetery at the Center, but many still lie beneath the soil that is now put to a common use. On Monmouth Neck, on the south side of the highway, opposite the school house, several bodies were buried. These graves have been ploughed over time and again. On Norris hill is a burying lot where many of the Kimballs, Ballous and others of the early inhabit ants of that section were laid to rest. A large portion of these graves are marked by substantial headstones. Cemeteries were established at a comparatively earl}' date on the Ridge, at North and South Mon mouth, on Pease hill, Stevens hill, the Neck, in the Lyon district and in the Richardson district, north of the academy. The one on Stevens hill, which for many years was allowed to run wild, was cleared of its scrub growth a few years ago and the graves of many of the first set tlers of Blaketown brought to light. For a number of years the ceme teries on the outskirts of the town have been sadly neglected. As early as 1814 it was " voted to authorize the selectmen to pro vide a work-house for the reception of the poor who may be able to 776 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. work." The town had in charge at this time a large number of indi viduals and families who were from year to year set up at public auc tion and knocked off to. the lowest bidder. Although the matter was brought up frequently for consideration, another generation held the reins of local government when the Jackman farm, near the Litchfield line, was purchased and stocked for that purpose. The following lists of town officials require no explanation. A moment's critical examination will reveal the plan of arrangement. Selectmen and Assessors. — 1792, John Chandler, served 2 years, Lieu tenant Jonathan Thompson, Captain Levi Dearborn; 1793, James Nor ris, 2 years, Matthias Blossom, 2; 1794, Dudley B. Hobart, 3; 1795, Ich abod Baker, John Chandler, 9; 1796,Simon Dearborn, 3; 1797, Nathan iel Norris; 1798, Captain Levi Dearborn; 1799, Robert Withington, William P. Kelley; 1800, Simon Dearborn, 3, Abraham Morrill, 2; 1802, Matthias Blossom, 2, James F. Norris, 2; 1804, David Marston; 1805, Simon Dearborn, jun., 7, Abraham Morrill, Joseph Norris; 1806, Sam uel Cook, 2, Jotham Thompson, 2; 1808, Thomas Kimball, 4, John Torsey; 1809, Nathaniel Norris, 2; 1811, Jotham Thompson; 1812, Abraham Morrill, 2, Elijah Gove, Gilman Thurston, 3; 1813, Captain Jonathan Judkins, 2; 1814, Simon Dearborn, jun.; 1815, Abraham Morrill, 4, Ebenezer Freeman, 2, John Harvey, 6; 1817, Major Jona than Marston, 3; 1819, Ebenezer Freeman, 4; 1820, Nehemiah Pierce, 3; 1821, Captain Thomas Kimball, 2; 1823, John S. Blake, 2, Otis Nor ris, 2, Josiah Richardson, 3; 1825, Benjamin White, jun., 3, Ichabod B. Andrews, 3; 1826, John S. Blake, 2; 1828, John Harvey, Otis Nor ris, Amasa Tinkham; 1830, Otis Andrews, Benjamin White, 2, John Harvey, 11; 1831, Ichabod B. Andrews, 3; 1832, Joseph Loomis, 2; 1834, Ebenezer Freeman, 6, Amasa Tinkham, 3; 1837, John S. Blake, 3; 1840, Levi Fairbanks, Joseph Loomis; 1841, Royal Fogg, 2, Otis Andrews, 2, David Thurston, 2; 1843, Ebenezer Freeman, John Har vey, 2, Alanson Starks, 2; 1844, Joseph Loomis, 8; 1845, Ebenezer Freeman, 2, William G. Brown, 2; 1846, William H. Boynton; 1847, John S. Blake, Jonathan Folsom, 2; 1848, Royal Fogg; 1849, David Thurston, 7, William H. Boynton, 8; 1852, Benjamin Stockin, 3; 1855, John B. Fogg, Rufus Marston; 1856, Ebenezer Freeman, 3, George W. King, 5; 1858, George H. Andrews, 4; 1859, J. G Smith, 7; 1861, Andrew W. Tinkham; 1862, J. B. Fogg, 7, Ambrose Beal, 8; 1866, G. H. Andrews; 1867, J. G. Smith, 3; 1869, J. G. Blossom; 1870, G. H. Andrews, John O. Gilman, 2, S. R. Simpson, 2; 1871, J. G. Smith, 3; 1872, O. S. Edwards, 5, H. O. Pierce, 3; 1874, S. O. King, 5; 1875, J. B. Fogg, 4; 1877, J. R. King; 1878, C. E. Frost, 3; 1879, J. G. Smith, J. O. Preble, 2; 1880, O. W. Andrews, 10; 1881, J. Cumston, 2, S. R. Simp son, 2; 1883, C. E. Frost, 4, Howard Stetson, 4; 1887, D. P. Boynton, A. W. Tinkham; 1888, C. J. Bragdon, J. P. Richardson; 1889, J. L. Or cutt, 3, D. H. Tillson, 3; 1890, H. C. Frost, 2. TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 777 Treasurers. — 1792, Captain Levi Dearborn; 1793, Ichabod Baker (?); 1794, Ichabod Baker; 1795, James Harvey, 5; 1800, Matthias Blossom, 3; 1803, Abraham Morrill, 2; 1805, Ichabod Baker, 3; 1808, Abraham Morrill, 4; 1812, Simon Dearborn, jun., 2; 1814, Abraham Mor rill; 1815, Simon Dearborn; 1816, Jonathan Jenkins; 1817, Simon Dearborn, jun., 4; 1821, John Harvey, 2; 1823, Abraham Morrill, 4; 1827, Ebenezer Freeman, 7; 1834. Otis Norris, 6; 1840, Nehemiah Pierce; 1841, Charles T. Fox, 2; 1843, Joseph Loomis; 1844, Rufus Marston; 1845, Augustine Blake: 1846, Rufus Marston, 3; 1849, Henry V. Cumston, 5; 1854, Ebenezer Freeman; 1855, Joseph Basford; 1856, William K. Dudley, 4; 1860, Isaiah Donnell; 1861, William G. Brown 1862, C. L. Owen, 2; 1864, William G. Brown, 14; 1878, D. E. Marston 1879, H. A. Williams, 3: 1882, F. H. Beale, 4; 1886, E. A. Dudley, 5 1891, F. H. Beale, Clerks.— 1792, John Chandler; 1808, Simon Dearborn, jun.; 1810, James Cochran; 1818, Samuel F. Blossom; 1825, Isaac S. Small; 1831, Samuel F. Blossom; 1839, Alanson Starks; 1840, Joseph Stacy; 1841, Alanson Starks; 1842, John Arnold, jun.; 1843, Jonathan M. Heath; 1844, William G. Brown; 1845, Rufus A. Rice; 1846, Charles T. Fox; 1855. C. A. Cochrane; 1856, Charles T. Fox; 1858, George H. Andrews; 1874, Ambrose Beal; 1879, C. J. Bragdon. Churches. — At a plantation meeting held March 12, 1787, it was voted " to choose a committee to hire Mr. Smith three Sabbaths, and the same committee to see what conditions Mr. Smith will settle in the place upon, and consult Col. Dearborn to see on what conditions he will convey the land he will give to the minister." Four years earlier than this James Potter, of Litchfield, held a series of meetings in the set tlement, but until 1793, when Jesse Lee began his evangelical work in Maine, nothing had been accomplished in the way of organizing a church or securing regular preaching. In 1794 Philip Wager, a sub ordinate worker whom Mr. Lee had appointed to take charge of the field, organized here the first Methodist class formed in Maine. The class consisted of fifteen persons. Of this number history has pre served the names of only five — Gilman Moody and wife, Daniel Smith and wife, and Nancy Nichols. For many years Monmouth held the leading position in Maine Methodism. In 1795 the second Methodist chapel in the province of Maine was erected on a lot donated by Major Daniel Marston. It stood on the west side of the road leading from the Center to North Monmouth, near Ellis Corner. For want of funds the interior was left unfinished; but on the last day of May, 1796, the rough shell was dedicated. The interior was completed in 1836. Seven years later the building was destroyed by fire. In 1844 a new church was built on the "heater piece," at the junction of Main and High streets, one-half mile north of the Center. The site is now covered by the dwelling house of 778 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Wesley Wheeler. In 1866 the building was removed to the Center. At this time a bell tower and spire were added, the high singers' gal lery at the back of the auditorium removed, the long vestibule divided, and modern arrangements substituted. In 1802 the New England Conference convened, July 1st, at Cap tain Sewall Prescott's tavern, the building on High street, now known as the "Old Fort." This was the second conference held east of Mas sachusetts, and the estimated attendance comprised one-sixth of all the Methodists of New England. Prescott's tavern was chosen be cause it was in the heart of the settlement, and nearer the boarding places of the ministers than was the "meeting house." The tavern was a new one, built only the year before. In the second story was an amusement hall running the entire length of the building and occu pying one-half of its width. On three sides benches were built into the wall to accommodate spectators, and the main floor gave ample room for dancing aud other entertainments. In this room was con ducted the business of the New England Conference of 1802. On July 4th 3,000 people stood in front of the building and listened to the ser mons delivered from the front hall. In 1809 the Conference again met in Monmouth, Bishop Asbury presiding. The first pastors were circuit riders, who visited the churches periodically. The names of many of these have become household words in Methodist families throughout the continent. Beginning with Philip Wager, in 1794, we have within the next six years Enoch Mudge, Asa Hull, Cyrus Stebbins, John Broadhead, Joshua Taylor, Robert Yallalee, Jesse Stone, and Nathan Emery. Epaphras Kibby and Comfort C. Smith came in 1800; Asa Heath and Oliver Beale, 1801; Joseph Snelling and Samuel Hillman, 1802; Joseph Snelling and Thomas Baker, 1803; Joseph Baker, 1804; Aaron Hum phrey, William Goodhue and John Williamson, 1805; Dyer Burge and Benjamin F. Lambard, 1806; David Batchelder and Henry Martin, 1807; Ebenezer Fairbanks and James Spaulding, 1808; David Kilburn, 1809; Caleb Fogg and E. Hyde, 1810; Zacariah Gibson and T. F. Mor ris, 1812; Cyrus Cummings and David Hutchinson, 1813; Samuel Hill man, 1814; Daniel Wentworth and E. W. Coffin, 1815; Ebenezer Newell, 1816; Daniel Wentworth, 1817; Philip Munger, 1819, 1820 and 1822; Aaron Fuller, 1821; Gilman Moody, assistant, 1822; Caleb Fogg, 1823-4; Eleazer Wells, 1825; Benjamin Burnham, 1826; Aaron Sander son, 1827. In 1827 Readfield Circuit, of which this town was a factor, was di vided and Monmouth Circuit established. The first settled preacher was Moses Sanderson. He was followed by O. Bent, 1828 and 1832; D. Crockett, 1829; D. Clark, 1830; M. Davis, 1831; Mr. Tripp, 1832; D.' Stimpson, 1833; B. Bryant, 1834-5; E. Withey, 1836; John Allen, 1837; Obadiah Huse, 1838; S. S. Hunt, 1839 (Mr. Hunt was removed and I. TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 779 Downing supplied the remainder of his term); Richard H. Ford, 1840; Ezekiel Robinson, 1841; David Hutchinson, 1842; Marcus Wight. 1S43; J. Higgins, 1844-5; B. Foster, 1846-7; Rufus Day, 1848-9; S. P. Blake, 1850; I. Lord, 1851; R. H. Stinchfield, 1852; S. M. Emerson, 1853-4; J. Mitchell, 1855-6; Dudley B. Holt, 1857-8; E. Martin, 1859-60; W. B. Bartlett, 1861-2; N. Hobart, 1863-4; J. C. Perry, 1865-6; D. B. Randall, 1867; P. Hoyt, 1868-9 (Mr. Hoyt died in 1869, and J. O. Thompson supplied the balance of his term, and was returned in 1870); E. K. Colby, 1871-2; F. Grosvenor, 1873-4; D. Waterhouse, 1875-6; R. H. Kimball, 1877-8; True Whittier, 1879-80; O. S. Pillsbury, 1881-3; G. D. Holmes, 1884-6; H. Hewett, 1857-9; J. H. Roberts, 1890-1; F. W. Smith, 1S92. The year following the revival under Jesse Lee an attempt was made to secure an appropriation from the town to build a church. Special meetings were called as often during the year 1794 as the laws of the commonwealth would allow, to consider the expediency of building a " meeting house " near the center of the town. After a long series of decisions the house, 50 by 40 feet, costing £200, was erected in 1795 near the spot now covered by the town house. Five years passed before it was completed. The " old yellow meeting house " was first used as a place of public gathering in 1799, when the town meeting was held in it. In 1800 the committee in charge awoke to the startling fact that they had built on land to which they had no title. They applied to the proprietor, Governor Bowdoin, of Boston, and from his daughter, Lady Temple, received a gift of the lot. The building was sold for a paltry sum, in 1844, to make room for the town house, The timbers furnished building material for a barn, and the pew doors were utilized in the manufacture of ornamental (?) lawn fences. The First Baptist Church was organized in the eastern part of the town in 1810. Eighteen members were reported to the Association that year. Rev. Elias Nelson originated in this church, and from it received a license to preach. He was ordained pastor in 1814, and continued in this relation three years. After the close of his pastorate the church gradually fell away, and in 1822 it was dropped from the Association as "having no existence," although it then numbered twenty-four members. In 1827 the Baptist church on the Ridge was organized as the First church. The membership numbered only fifteen. The year following they erected their house of worship. From this time to 1837 they secured preaching a large portion of the time and enjoyed a steady growth. Rev. S. Hinkley was ordained evangelist in 1836. In 1838 Rev. J. Ridley became pastor. He re mained with the society four years. Other pastors who have officiated in this church, with dates of pastorate, as near as can be ascertained, are: William O. Grant, Noah Norton, William Day, Cyrus Case, 1842- 50 780 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. 7; John Upton, 1851; A. M. Piper, 1852-7; Cyrus Case, 1858-61; G. D. Ballentine, 1861-3; O. B. Walker, 1863-7; H. Hawes, 1867; T. J. Sweet, 1868-72; T. J. Lyons, 1872-3; James Heath, 1875-7; S. Powers, 1878-81; Erwin Dennet, 1881-5; Robert Scott, 1888-91. The Freewill Baptist Society of South Monmouth was organized in the eastern part of the town prior to 1839, when, in connection with other denominations, it erected the Union church, which will be men tioned on another page. The early records of this society are so loose and desultory that no accurate information can be gleaned from them. The first settled pastor, in 1853, was Rev. M. L. Getchell. His successors have been: C. B. Glidden, 1860; J. Fuller, J. Keene, Charles Bean, Mr. Andrews, Mr. Baird, M. L. Getchell, L. S. Williams, 1889. The church edifice was erected in or about 1859. An extensive revival in 1837 resulted in the formation of a new Baptist church at East Monmouth, with a membership of seven, which in a few weeks increased to twenty-five. Rev. William Day received the pastoral charge, which he held until 1840, when he resigned. In 1839 a Union church edifice was erected, in which this society held a third interest, another third being taken by the Methodists, and the remaining third by the Freewill Baptists and Christian order in equal shares. Since the close of Mr. Day's term the church has been with out a pastor, and the building, which by the conditions of the com pact, was to fall to the surviving denomination, has been re-dedicated by the Methodists. The Monmouth Center Baptist Church was organized in 1842, with Rev. S. Hinkley, pastor. It has long since ceased to exist. The Christian Church was organized May 20, 1817, with ten names enrolled. The pastor, Rev. Jedediah B. Prescott, was a dissenter from the Methodists, and formerly a class leader in that denomination. He received no salary, but supported himself and family by mending shoes from house to house. Quite an extensive revival resulted from his labors, and soon the Second Christian Church was, for the sake of convenience, organized in the eastern part of the town. In 1818 the members of the First church erected a house of worship on land do nated by Robert Withington. It stood about where Fred. M. Richard son's farm buildings now stand, near North Monmouth. The interior was not finished until 1825. In the meantime a joiner's bench served as a pulpit, and rough benches as pews. It was purchased in 1855 by Rev. Mr. Conant, and remodeled into the dwelling house now occu pied by Albertus R. King, at North Monmouth. Mr. Prescott re mained with the society, as pastor, until 1835. His dismissal was the death blow of the organization. Both societies ceased to exist many years ago. The Union Church at North Monmouth was built in 1852 by a cor poration of twelve members. Under the provisions of the act of in- TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 781 corporation, no ecclesiastical body could assume supremacy of rule; but each pewholder, of whom there were fifty-two, was invested with the right to select, for one Sunday in the year, a preacher represent ing his denominational tenets, whom he should secure at his own ex pense. The pew-holders represented four distinct religious societies — Methodist, Universalist, Congregationalist and Christian. The building was dedicated December 22, 1852, and was re-dedicated about 1860. The Congregational Church at the Center was organized through the efforts of Rev. Mr. Conant, in 1853. Services were held in the town house and Center school house for several months prior to the erection of the church, which was raised August 5, 1856. As the records were burned in 1SS5, it is impossible to secure accurate data. There have been few settled pastors, but preaching has been obtained by supply from theological institutions a large portion of the time. The first pastor was Rev. J. H. Conant. He remained but a short time after the dedication of the church, which occurred in February, 1857. Among the more prominent of those who supplied the pulpit for the following thirty years are: Reverends H. S. Loring, Mr. Gould, 1863-5; Mr. Waldron; Mr. Rogers, 1874; A. M. Wiswall, 1877; C. E. Andrews, 1879; J. B. Carruthers, 1881-3; R. H. Peacock, 1884-7; J. A. Anderson was installed pastor in 1889, and remained two years. The church is now supplied by Rev. Mr. Wade. Schools. — Very soon after the advent of the first settlers itinerant pedagogues appeared. In Ichabod Baker's barn, in the chamber of John Welch's house and from cabin to cabin they taught the rudi ments of an education. Some of the adults, as well as the children, grasped this opportunity to learn to read and write. The first of these " masters " were Smith and Lyford. Other earlyT teachers were Crossman, Patch, Kinsley, Lowney and Magner. The last two were " sons of Erin " and dear lovers of " the ardent." In 1789 the general court granted the plantation a sum of money " to be laid out in school ing and preaching and on roads." As the records have been lost, it is impossible to determine the exact date when the two districts — the North and the South — were formed and the first school house erected; but, undoubtedly, 1790 would not deviate from it to the extent of one year. This house stood on the ledge, a few rods east of the residence of Benjamin Ellis, near North Monmouth. It was burned about the opening of the present century. The. two districts had for a divisional line the Cochnewagan' stream. In 1793 the Center district was formed by taking a section from each of the original districts. For several years after the North district boasted a school house, the scholars of the South and Center districts convened in private houses and barns. The first one erected in the Center stood on the corner now covered by the house of Rufus 782 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. G. King. It was moved to a point nearly opposite the gateway of the cemetery, about where stands the small brick building used for many years as the office of the Mutual Insurance Company. Subsequently it was removed to a spot between the residence of D. P. Boynton and the house owned by Mrs. Benner. It was purchased by R. G. King when the new school house was erected, attached to his buildings, and is now used as a stable. The first money raised by the town for the support of schools was £45 appropriated in 1794. Three years later, the towu was divided into four districts — North, South, East and West — and the sum of $600 raised to be expended in building school houses. The cost of these buildings exceeded the appropriation by about twenty dollars. A committee of one for each district was chosen to act as agent and local supervisor, whose prerogatives were sometimes encroached upon by the election of a general advisory committee of three. The next new district was formed at Dearborn's Corner, a mile south of» the Center, in 1805. This infringed on the South district numerically- only, as the money appropriated for that district was not divided, a sum more than twice as large being privately raised by those who were interested, for the support of their independent school. After one year's trial this district was abandoned. Three years later, the Ridge was set off as a separate district, drawing its quota of money from the town treasury. This, too, was abandoned after a brief trial. In 1803, the East district was practically divided. Although the entire eastern part of the town was still, nominally, the East district, the money apportioned to that section was drawn in two orders, one-half going for the support of a new school in Joseph Chandler's neighbor hood. The Bishop district was set off in 1805. A fair conception of its size may be drawn from the fact that out of the town appropriation of above $400 its share was $4.65. In 1820, the selectmen, agreeably to " a vote of the town at the last annual meeting," numbered the districts as follows: " The district on Norris Hill, No. 1; the district where Lieut. Royal Fogg lives, No. 2; where Amasa Tinkham lives, 3; where Simon Dearborn lives, 4; where the Center meeting house stands, 5; where Peltiah Warren lives, 6; where Joseph Allen lives, 7; where Calvin Hall lives, 8; where Jona than Stevens lives, 9; where Capt. William P. Kelly lives, 10; where Joseph Norris lives, 11; the district of Arnold's Mills, 12; the district of Oak Hill, 13; the district of New Boston, 14." Aside from the change effected by dropping the High Street, Blaketown, New Boston and Oak Hill districts, these divisions remain practically unchanged. In 1801, a petition was presented to the general court by ten citizens of Monmouth calling for aid, in the form of a grant of unappropriated land, to establish a free grammar school. Subscriptions to the amount of above $1,500 had been secured for the object, a large portion of TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 783 which came from the Plymouth Company, Lady Elizabeth Temple, John Chandler and General Henry Dearborn. The act of incorporation was passed in 1803, accompanied by a grant of 1,500 acres of wild land, which was increased to 10,020 acres. A building was erected at once. In 1809, a new act of incorporation was passed, by which the school assumed the dignity of an academy. The first principal of whom we have any knowledge was Ebenezer Herrick, who taught one term in 1810. In- 1851, the building was burned under very suspicious cir cumstances. A new building of brick soon arose on the ruins, and in 1855 the school was re-opened. As one of the oldest and best college preparatory schools in the state, it received for many years a liberal patronage. Members of congress, governors and men of national fame in the military and literary world have here received their edu cation. For a period of several years following 1872 it struggled hard for an existence, and for a time was abandoned and suffered to go to decay. A change has been effected in the past three years, and it is once more in a flourishing state, although its primeval glory has, by reason of the nearness of denominational schools of greater magni tude, forever departed. Villages. — The first settlement, as has been stated, was on the low lands near the Wales line. Gradually the center of population worked northward, until the opening of the present century found quite a vil lage clustered about the crown of Academy hill. Here, on the south corner of the road that leads to Norris hill, was John Chandler's store. Nearly opposite were his blacksmith shop and tavern. A few rods north, on the site now covered by the residence of Dr. C. M. Cumston, stood the blacksmith shop of Jeremiah Chandler. Still farther north, between E. A. Prescott's and the " Old Fort," stood the square, hip- roofed store of Joseph Chandler. This building was, like the store of John Chandler already mentioned, moved to the Center and remodeled into a dwelling house. Not to mention the intervening dwellings, the next in order was Captain Prescott's blacksmith shop and tavern. Down through the hollow and all along the road as far as Ellis Cor ner, where the school house stood, buildings were more numerous than at the present day. At the corner, a store was opened some time be tween 1800 and 1802, by A. & J. Pierce. It stood in the field east of M. M. Richardson's and south of Rev. J. B. Fogg's. In 1804, the junior partner of the firm sold his share to his brother. A year later, we find it occupied by Samuel Cook. Then followed the firm of Strat ton & Cook. Moses Randlet, the next occupant, gave way to the firm of Blake & Morrill. The building was moved to North Monmouth and is now a dwelling owned by Mrs. Lydia King. Another store was erected a few rods east by Major Marston, and occupied by his son, Lewis Marston. It was removed and attached to the buildings of Mr. Clarence Thompson. 784 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. The first post office in town was established January 1, 1795, with John Chandler, postmaster. The mails were brought regularly by Matthias Blossom, who established the first mail route between Port land and Augusta by way of Monmouth. John Chandler's term of office expired April 1, 1807, when Joseph Chandler became the incum bent. The office returned to John Chandler July 1, 1809. Following him were: John A. Chandler, September 25, 1812; John Chandler, Oc tober 7, 1818; John A. Chandler, July 24, 1820; Augustine Blake, Jan uary 5, 1833; Isaac N. Prescott, July 30, 1841; Augustine Blake, De cember 27, 1842. The office was then transferred to the Center. In 1807 Joseph Chandler opened a store near the outlet of South pond, at East Monmouth. The extensive lumber operations of Clark & Arnold had drawn the center of business to this point, and here it remained until the rise of industries at the north village. The bulk of trade has been confined to one store, which has passed through the hands of several proprietors, and is now occupied by S. H. Jones. A post office was established May 12, 1832, with Benjamin White, post master. The office wTas discontinued May 30, 1834, and re-established June 21st of the same year, with David White, as postmaster. Charles S. Norris was appointed September 11, 1839; James R. Norris, January 25, 1854; Charles P. Blake, November 11, 1857; Joseph H. Smith, Jan uary 29, 1859; Silas Emerson, February 15, 1867; Mrs. Selena Gale,. November 12, 1867; Mark L. Getchell, November 29, 1870; Charles W. Woodbury, October 8, 1873; Samuel H. Jones, September 17, 1874. Not far from 1806 Joseph Chandler opened a store at North Mon mouth, in a building that has been removed to the foot of Robinson's hill and is now occupied as a dwelling by S. H. Folsom. Nearly twenty-five years later a Mr. Crowell erected and occupied for a short time as a store the house where R. M. Frost now lives. He was fol lowed by a Mr. Gage, who built the house now occupied by Mr. With ers. About 1834, Daniel Packard built a small store on what is now the door yard of George Robinson, in which he traded about seven years. Near 1845, J. A. Tinkham built the store now occupied by J. W. Foss. It was first occupied by Samuel King. Following him came Ezra Whitman, Bailey Jacobs, Jairus Manweil and Artemas Kimball. A little earlier than 1860 a firm composed of J. A. Tinkham, Seth Fogg, J. B. Fogg and T. L. Stanton, traded in a building which they erected for the purpose. At about the same time Sylvester King remodeled a building which was erected for a boarding house nearly twenty years before, into the store now occupied by W. F. Miller. It was first used as a store by Mr. King; subsequently by Benjamin Manweil and G. W. King, who occupied it about 7 and 24 years respectively, from 1858 to 1889. The store near the Union church, now occupied by Lindsay & Sanborn, was erected in 1886 by C. A. Libby. John B. Fogg was the first postmaster. The office was established December 20, TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 785 1849. Fogg was followed by John A. Tinkham, February 16, 1852; Benjamin Morrill, October 2, 1866; George W. King, May 6, 1805; John W Foss, December 15, 1§82; David I. Moody, January 18, 1886; Charles F. Brown, April 12, 1889. In 1815 the entire territory included in the Center village held but three dwelling houses, all of which are still standing. They are now occupied by A. M. Kyle, H. C. Frost and William B. Brown. On the spot now covered by Woodbury's store stood Daniel Witherell's black smith shop. The old Arnold house, now occupied by Andrew B. Pink ham, was built not far from 1820, by John Hawes, and half a dozen rods north, near the site of the moccasin shop, stood his blacksmith shop. Accompanying the erection of a few dwellings followed a tav ern, built by Captain Judkins, near where the railway station now stands. This building was subsequently removed to the south end of the village, and is now occupied as a dwelling by D. C. Perry. A little west of the spot now covered by the freight depot, on the other side of the stream, was a tannery built by Captain Judkins. The stream originally ran in a diagonal course from a point near the small house back of the Clough store to its point of emergence on the opposite side of the street, Captain Judkins, to accommodate his busi ness, turned it from its course by means of a canal, carrying it south several rods and across the street at a right angle. Near the tavern was a potash factory built by General Chandler. This building was moved back toward the pond and used for a variety of purposes. It is now occupied by Simon Clough as a dwelling. A little farther down the stream, near where Mr. Wadsworth's house now stands, was another tannery and bark mill, built by Ard Macomber about 1812. Between the tanneries was a brick yard owned by John Welch, jun. This covered the ground on which the Edwards & Flaherty store stood before the fire, and that covered by the new blacksmith shop. The first store opened at the Center was built by Ard Macomber for Colonel Jesse Pierce. It stood on the corner of Main and Maple streets. For many years prior to the fire of 1888 it was used for a hotel. That much quoted individual, " the oldest inhabitant," is authority for the statement that, in its early days, a barrel of rum per day often passed out of its doors during the haying season. Among those who afterward traded in the building were Hiram Allen, Alan son Starks, Samuel Brown and Leander Macomber. In or about 1840 Alanson Starks built a store on the now vacant lot, where the store of Edwards & Flaherty stood before the fire. Subsequently it was moved across the railroad and sold to Eben Arnold, by whom it was occupied as a dry goods and grocery store. Since then it has passed through several hands and has served a variety of purposes. It is now owned by Simon Clough. The upper story is used as a Grand Army hall; the lower is now occupied as a grocery by Plummer & Thompson. 786 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. The house south of Brown's hotel, owned by G. W. Norris, was built for a store, and as such occupied by Josiah Richardson. On the school house lot a carpenter's shop built by William Frost, not far from 1840, was remodeled and first used as a store by Hiram Allen. Ebenezer Blake and a Mr. Elwell occupied it later. The build ing was purchased by Daniel Boynton and William Welch and re moved to a site near the railroad. Above was a hall used by the Good Templars and Sons of Temperance. Among those who traded there were Nelson P. Barker, James Blossom, Hendrick Judkins, Rev. S. O. Emerson and C. E. Richardson. A little more than twenty years ago it was again remodeled, and until the fire was used as a dwelling house by H. A. Williams. On the spot where W. W. Woodbury's store now stands Daniel Boynton erected a store a little later than 1850. It was for many years occupied by William G. Brown and others as a store and clothing manufactory, and at the time of the fire, by W. W. Woodbury. The same year Charles S. Norris erected the store in which Gilman & Beale traded in 1888. Some of the firms in trade there were Blake & Judkins, Judkins & Dudley, Daniel Lucas and C. D. Starbird. As a clothing manufactory it was controlled by several firms. A few years before the fire a story was added and fitted for a tenement, while the lower floor was used as a hardware store by- George W., Luther O. & M. E. King, A. A. Fillebrown and Rowe & Morrill. Another old building was the Blossom & Judkins store, which stood a little south of Dr. M. O. Edward's new drug store. Like nearly every other building in the village, it was remodeled and put to another use years ago. With one or two exceptions these buildings, with the Goodwin & Andrews store, which stood about where E. A. Dudley's new store now stands, and was long occupied by William Arnold, and more recently by Ambrose Beal and Dudley & Blake; the store that stood where the meat market now stands, used by Henry S. Blue as a harness shop, and by C. L. Owen and others as a boot and shoe store; the drug stores erected by Alpheus Huntington and Watts & Andrews, all were consumed in the terrible conflagration of April 19, 1888, and the less extensive one of September 18, 1885. William G. Brown was the first postmaster, after the Monmouth post office was removed to this village. His commission dates from June 16, 1849. He was succeeded by: James R. Norris, November 11, 1857; Henry A. Williams, February 24, 1859; John E. Cochrane, April 4, 1861; Henry A. Williams, January 15, 1863; Cyrus L. Owen, April 29. 1863; George H. Andrews, December 22, 1873: Ambrose Beal, March 9, 1874; Frank H. Baale, August 5, 1834; Merton O. Edwards, July 31, 1885; Edwin A. Dudley, April 9, 1889. The first trader at South Monmouth was John Meader, who opened a store in 1834. He was succeeded by Staple Chick, A. Huntington, TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 787 Mr. Smith, W. & B. Witherell, Levi Day in 1854, W. Potter, B.Walker, J. W. Jordan in 1877, Buker Brothers 1884, C. A. Buker 1885, A. F. Tinkham 1887. At " Hall's Mill," the corner where the residence of Joshua Stover now stands, was a store occupied by Robert Randall and others. The first postmaster at South Monmouth was Lafayette W. Witherell, whose commission bears date December 22, 1856; Bar- zillai Walker succeeded him April 22, 1858. The office was discon tinued January 5, 1871, and reestablished May 8, 1871, with L. W. Witherell again postmaster. His successors were: Levi Day, April 15, 1872; John W. Jordan, February 7, 1878; Clarence A. Buker, January 16, 1884; L. W. Witherell, June 22, 1887; Algene F. Tinkham, Decem ber 6, 1887. Societies. — The earliest society of which any authentic account has been preserved, was a temperence organization which was founded prior to 1830, through the influence of Nehemiah Pierce. A division of the Sons of Temperance was organized in 1849. Nine years later a society which admitted both sexes was established with a large membership. These, like the Good Templars chartered in 1879, were of comparatively brief duration. The most far-reaching institution in its influence on the morals of the town was the Reform Club, which was organized in 1875, and in ten years reached an aggregate mem bership of above six hundred. A dispensation was granted Monmouth Lodge, No. 110, A. F. & A. M., May 21, 1861. The thirteen names that appear on the charter are: John A. Pettingill, W. M.; A. S. Kimball, S. W.; Richard C. Dodd, J. W.; Granville P. Cochrane, Greenleaf K. Norris, George H. Billings, John B. Fogg, Henry A. Williams, William G. Brown, Nathan Ran dall, Joseph R. King, Rev. Jedediah B. Prescott and Jonathan Jud kins. The annual meeting is held in September. The successive worthy masters have been: John A. Pettingill, 1861; A. S. Kimball, 1867; Nahum Spear, 1868; S. P. Bamford, 1870; Nahum Spear, 1872; Charles H. Berry, 1874; Nahum Spear, 1875; Jeremiah Gorden, 1876; Charles H. Foster, 1878; Daniel P. Boynton, 1882; John C. Kingsbury, 1884; Timothy F. Flaherty, 1886; Edward A. Prescott, 1887; Edwin A. Dudley, 1890. Monmouth Lodge, A. O. U. W., was organized April 13, 1885, with C. C. Richmond, master workman; H. S. Blue, recorder. Mr. Rich mond's successors have been: George M. Clough, 1888-9; Fred C. Pike, 1890; J. H. Norris, 1891. A local division of the United Order of the Golden Cross was insti tuted in 1888. The presiding officers have been: A. G. Smith, Henry Smith, George M. Clough, E. A. Dudley, and George O. Longfellow. The W. C. T. U. was organized in 1890. A mutual insurance association, which for a period of many years conducted a large business in all parts of the state, was incorporated 788 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. about the middle of this century as the Monmouth Mutual Fire In surance Company. Military History.— The exact date of organization of the mili tary company, whose officers, from the peculiarity of their dress, were known as Captain Tow-coat, Leftenant Bob-coat and Ensign No-coat, is not known, but it is probable that it was formed in 1781, when the military law was passed. A time-stained paper in the hands of the writer, bearing the date July 4, 1806, shows that the cavalry at this time consisted of 144 members, with Captain Sewall Prescott, Lieu tenants James McLellan and James F. Norris in command. Two foot companies, A and B, 3d Regiment, 1st Brigade, 2d Division, continued in regular drill until 1843. Company B, Monmouth Artillery, attached to the same regiment, was organized in 1795. This company sup ported two brass field pieces, one of which was taken by the govern ment at the opening of the civil war. The other, secreted for a long time under a barn, was brought from its hiding place as soon as peace was declared, to keep people from oversleeping on the great national holiday. It burst in 1884, in a premature attempt to ratify Blaine's election to the presidency. The gun house stood a few rods south of Captain Prescott's tavern, on the opposite side of the street. After the " Fogg school house " was burned, in 1851, it was remodeled and used as a school house nearly twenty years. It is now. after a com plete renovation, occupied as a dwelling house by L. S. Goding. Dur ing the war of 1812 the companies called into service are noticed at page 116. In 1839 the few who were not suddenly stricken with sci atica, heart disease and other disabilities were forced to the seat of the bloodless Madawaska war. Industries. — The first intimation of anything in the line of local manufactories that can be deduced from either authentic record or tradition begins with the establishment of a " potash " by Captain Peter Hopkins. About the same time the grist mill that now stands on the Cochnewagan stream, at the Center, was built by General Henry Dearborn, John Welch and Captain James Blossom. In recent years it has been increased in length and apparatus for bolting wheat added. A grist mill was built on Wilson stream by Jeremiah Hall not far from 1780. He sold it, after a short time, to Benjamin Stockin and Robert Hill, who, in the course of a few years, relinquished his claim to Stockin. Prior to 1794 a saw mill was built at the Center, by Wil liam Allen and Ichabod Baker, one on Wilson stream by Robert Hill and one at the outlet of South pond by General Henry Dearborn, Na thaniel Norris and others. In 1794 a saw mill on Wilson stream was taxed to George Hopkins, Caleb Thurston, Dudley Thurston and Jonathan Thurston. The following year Jeremiah Hall was taxed for similar property on the same stream. In 1797 Phineas Blake, Phineas- TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 789 Blake, jun., and Dearborn Blake had a saw mill in operation at East Monmouth. Isaac Clark, jun., who settled in the eastern part of the town in 1804, was a man of much spirit and enterprise. He built mills on the Cobbosseecontee stream and started a plant which, but for his prema ture death, would undoubtedly have developed into a large manufac tory. He built and occupied the house now owned by J. Henry Norris. Through the enterprise of Captain John Arnold, who succeeded Mr. Clark as proprietor of the mills at the " East," business all through the town was accelerated to a pitch unknown either before or since. Mr. Arnold removed from Connecticut to Hallowell several years be fore he came to this town. He drove into the settlement with the first carriage that ever crossed the town line. The roads were not built for fancy vehicles, and but for the assistance of farmers with ox-teams he could never have drawn his chaise through the bog holes. He en larged and made extensive repairs on the saw mill, and established in connection with it a fulling mill and a mill for the manufacture of linseed oil. Raising flax to supply this mill became an industry of some importance, but by no means as considerable as the lumber trade which he built up. From his mill on the Cobbosseecontee he rafted lumber down to the pond and up to the point now known as Hammond's Grove, in Manchester, where it was landed and drawn with teams to Arnold's wharf on the Kennebec, and there loaded on his ships and carried to Boston and the West Indies. Timber cut on the banks of the Jocmunyaw was rafted down to the Cobbosseecon tee and thence carried to Hallowell overland or through intervening streams to the Kennebec. His mill was furnished with a gang-saw arrangement that possessed great advantages over the ordinary saw then in use. A few years later Mr. Arnold built a mill on the Cochnewagan stream a few rods to the right of the bridge that spans it on the road leading from the Center to East Monmouth. This was not a very suc cessful project, as a reservoir could not be constructed with sufficient head to carry a large wheel without flooding a large tract of valuable land near the Center. It was very appropriately dubbed " Mud Mill." This mill was set on fire in later years by men spearing pickerel be neath it by torchlight and totally destroyed. A saw mill was built by Isaac Hall at South Monmouth early in this century. The location was poorly chosen and the mill was, from necessity, suffered to go to decay. In 1808 Major Elijah Wood and Nathan Howard, of Winthrop, built a fulling mill on the Tinkham brook at North Monmouth. Amasa Tinkham purchased it about three years later and converted it into a tannery. The business then estab lished was conducted by his son, John A. Tinkham, until his decease 790 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. in 1860. Since then it has passed into the hands of Jeremiah Gorden, S. H. King and Moses Stevens, who now control it. The mill in this part of the town now used by Mr. Mcllroy in the manufacture of woolen goods, was erected in 1829. The dam was built by Levi Fairbanks four years earlier. In 1835 it was used as a peg factory. Sylvester Fairbanks, about this time, invented a machine for their manufacture. Prior to this they had been made by hand throughout the country. Later, Joseph Fairbanks occupied one half of the building in the manufacture of horse-powers, the other end be ing used by Thomas L. Stanton for weaving tape. The tape industry was started on a small scale by Aaron Stanton. He, for many years, manufactured this article by hand in a small shop that has been moved and remodeled into the dwelling house now occupied by Ed. Donnell. Later, the Mcllroy mill was occupied by George S. Fair banks as a heel-iron factory, and, subsequently, was supplied with machinery for spinning woolen and cotton yarn. The brick mill near by was built by William H. King, in 1846, for a starch factory. Ma chinery for the manufacture of boot webbing was substituted by his father, Samuel King. The grist mill on Wilson stream, long known as " Moody's mill," now owned by Jeremiah Gorden, was built by David Moody in 1834, and for many years operated by him and his son, Rufus G. Moody. The axe and shovel factory now owned by Emery, Waterhouse & Co., was established by Spear & Billings about 1846. In 1841 the mills in this village were destroyed by fire. Catching accidently in a shingle mill owned by Tinkham, Blaisdell & Pettin gill, it spread to a saw mill owned by the same parties, and a webbing mill owned by Thomas L. Stanton. Various manufactories have flourished for a brief period in the eastern part of the town. An oil cloth factory operated by Norris & Blake, subsequently purchased by the Baileys and moved to Winthrop, a moccasin boot manufactory established by Charles P. Blake, a bleachery, and a toy factory have all had their day. Tanneries of minor importance have existed at different periods in all parts of the town. At the Center, the only industries of importance that have ever existed are the moccasin boot and shoe manufactory established about 1870, by Blake, Judkins & Woodbury, and the one started a little later by Judkins, Dudley & Co., and now operated by M. L. Getchell & Co. Nearly half a century ago, a shovel and hoe factory operated by Mr. Earle was erected by Otis Welch on the Cochnewagan stream. Later, the building was used in the manufacture of knobs, and in comparatively recent years, as a sash and blind shop, by Spring er, Owen & Co. and others. It was burned in 1880. A mill for o-rind- ing salt was built on the same power by the Labree Brothers a little earlier than 1870. The manufacture of coats for Boston and Provi- TOWN OF MONMOUTH. 791 dence firms has for twenty-five years furnished employment for a large number of women. The business was established by R. G. King. He was followed, on a larger scale, by the firms of Brown & Luce, Brown, Walker & Co., Starbird & Luce, Luce, King & Woodbury and others, and it is now conducted by W. W. Woodbury. The water power furnished by the numerous ponds is sufficient to run several large manufactories. There are nine powers, any one of which could, with little expense, be increased to double its present capacity. Two of these have been utterly abandoned. From the earliest days until 1860, when the maximum of 1,854 was reached, the population steadily increased. Since that date it has as steadily decreased to the present showing — 1,362*. PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. Henry Allen, born in Monmouth in 1815, is a son of Woodard and Elsie (Alden) Allen, and the only one living of eleven children. He married in 1836, Diana, daughter of Aaron and Sabra (Howard) Wads worth. They had seven children, now all deceased except Sabra and Dasia (Mrs. Henry Norris). Mr. Allen bought the farm where he now lives in 1875. His wife died in 1881, since which time Mr. and Mrs. Norris have lived with him. George H. Andrews, son of Ichabod B. and Margaret (Fogg) An drews, was born in Monmouth, in 1826. He was for over thirty-five years engaged in mercantile business. He has filled various town offices, ably represented his town in the state legislature from 1856 to 1859 inclusive, and has been an efficient member of the board of county commissioners for thirteen consecutive years. He married Sarah H. Safford, and they have had six children. The three living are: Helen F. (Mrs. A. M. Spear, of Gardiner); Charles L., of the law firm of Spear & Andrews, Gardiner; and Lester M., bookkeeper for Emerson, Stevens & Co., Oakland. Otis Andrews, born in WTales, October 7, 1788, bought the farm in 1812 on which he lived till his death, March 13, 1873. He married Rachel Thompson, of Topsham, Me, February 11, 1813, coming di rectly to the farm above mentioned, at which time there was only a bridle path. This section of the town has always been known as the " Ridge." There were born to them ten children, two of whom died in childhood. The others were: Harriet E., Sophia A., Olivia H., Maria C, Lydia A., Jane R., Otis W. and Leonard C. The following are living: Sophia A., now Mrs. Hooker, of Gardiner, Me; Lydia A., now Mrs. Goodwin, of Monmouth; Otis W., who resides on the old homestead, and Leonard C, who lives on the adjoining farm. Jabez S. Ballard, born in Augusta, Me., in 1839, is a son of Eph raim and Pheba (Sawyer) Ballard, and grandson of Jonathan Ballard. * Mr. Cochrane's responsibility for this chapter ends here. — [Ed. 792 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. He married Elizabeth, daughter of John O. and Harriet Gilman, and has one son, Orrin A. Mr. Ballard has been a hotel keeper in Win throp and Augusta. He came to his present place in Monmouth in 1878, where he keeps summer boarders. Mathias A. Benner, born in Nobleboro, Me, in 1832, is a son of Nathaniel and Mary (Barstow) Benner. His first wife was Rebecca J., daughter of Rev. Mark Getchell. She died in 1879. They had three children: Delbert M., E. Merton and Winetta R., who died in 1878. His second wife was Amanda B., daughter of Benjamin Potter. They have two children: Percy G. and Winifred A. Mr. Benner came to Monmouth in 1852, to the farm where he now lives, where he has been a farmer and speculator. Ephraim S. Besse, born in Wayne in 1827, is a son of Jonathan and Acanath (Smith) Besse. He married in 1849, Julia A., daughter of Ebenezer and Sally (Raymond) Besse, of Wayne. She died in 1865, leaving eight children: Julia, Bethiah B., Sarah A., Emily A., Augusta A., Ephraim L., George W. and Charles E.; all deceased except Bethiah B., Emily A. and George W. He married for his second wife Mrs. Mary A. Williams. He is a hoe forger, and worked for twenty-two years for Plimpton, of Litchfield; five years for G. H. Billings, Mon mouth, and one year for D. B. Lord, West Waterville. Since 1882 he has been a farmer on the farm where he has lived since 1864. Charles E. Brown, born in Monmouth in 1856, is one of two sons of Joseph and Lucinda (Bradford) Brown, and grandson of Abraham Brown, who came from Massachusetts and had three sons: Charles B., George W. and Joseph, who was born on the farm where Charles now lives, in 1822. Charles E. has one brother, William R. Their mother died in 1890. Charles F. Brown, born at Kennebunkport, Me, in January, 1836, is a son of Warren and Phebe (Hawkins) Brown. He graduated from commercial college in 1875, was for two years in Washington, D. C, for the government, and at the same time attended medical lectures. He was for two years in business at Kennebunkport, Me, and was one year in Minnesota as bookkeeper. He came to Monmouth in 1881, where he married Mary E., daughter of Seth Martin, and has one daughter, Lillian E. He collected taxes in 1888, '89 and '90, was super visor of schools in 1889 and 1891, has been deputy sheriff for three years, and postmaster since 1889 at North Monmouth. His father was a lawyer and doctor, but was in the government service in Washing ton, D. C, from 1862 until 1877. Lewis M. Brown is the only son of Chase Brown and Rachel, who was a daughter of Jonathan Marston, who came from Deerfield, N. H., to Monmouth about 1770. Chase Brown came to the farm where Lewis now lives in 1859, dying there in 1888, since which time Lewis and his mother have conducted the farm. •-^^:- ,1 f" Cjk^-'J- 9h 6-t>&7^7~r^~ TOWN OF WINTHROP. 833 hotel on the temperance plan for twenty-nine years, during which time many distinguished travellers were his guests, and retired from business in 1850, when he converted his house of entertainment into a private residence. Though a strong abolitionist, Deacon Carr never mingled actively in politics. The church was his sphere of work, and from 1832, when he joined the Winthrop Congregational church, to the day of his death he was an eminently conscientious Christian in his every word and deed. He was made deacon in 1835, and held the office until 1854, when, becoming disaffected with the church on account of " Father Thurston's" dismissal, he resigned. He took letters to the Litchfield Congregational church, attending that house communion Sundays, and in the interim worshipping at the Winthrop Methodist church, in which he was a regular pewholder. Deacon Carr was a man of active, genial spirit and unusual liber ality. His hospitality was boundless, and^was extended to rich and poor alike, with strict impartiality. He might have made more money than he did had he been less open-handed; but his soul was above small things, and whoever sought a favor of him, which it was con sistent for him to grant, was never denied. He was a constant attend ant at church and the weekly prayer meeting, and was always ready to take a part. Against all forms of lewdness, violence and oppres sion his stand was bold and decided, for he was essentially a law-abid ing citizen, and walked fearlessly in the sight of his fellow men. He left an unblemished reputation for fairness and integrity in all his business dealings, and at his death, February 2, 1862, was sincerely mourned by the entire community. His wife survived him until January 14, 1878. Their children were: Mary A., born December 13, 1815, died November 23, 1826; Daniel N., born April 15, 1818, died May 15, 1825; Hartford J., born September 13, 1820, died July 21, 1822; George W., born April 17, 1824, died May 4, 1849; Sarah B., born June 19, 1826, died March 2, 1885; Daniel H., born February 2,1829, died July 1, 1831; and Helen A., the only surviving child, who was born February 3, 1833, and who, as a consistent and beautiful Christian character, and an ardent and liberal supporter of the church, follows worthily in the footsteps of her parents. Jesse Lee, the first apostle of Methodism in Maine, entered on this great circuit September 10, 1793, and preached in Winthrop, probably in the Fairbanks neighborhood, October 21st following. Five years later Lee brought to this town with him the great Bishop Asbury, who thus recorded the event in his journal: " We rode that evening to Winthrop, where meeting was appointed in the Congregational house. As the day was damp and myself sick, Brother Lee preached, and the people said it was a good time. I 834 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. found father Bishop * at whose house we stayed, his son and wife, ex ceedingly kind. This part of the district of Maine is settled with people from the south of Massachusetts and some from New Hamp shire." No good cause could ask for nobler heralds than these two men. A Methodist class was formed in 1794, under the labors of Rev. Philip Wager, in the Fairbanks neighborhood. Nathaniel Bishop and Seth Delano and their wives were the leading members. For the next twenty years the Methodists did what they could, but were not able to sustain regular meetings. During the years 1806, '7 and '8 there was preaching once in two weeks, in the school house in th esoutheast part of the town. In 1811 the Massachusetts legislature incorporated the Methodist Society in the town of AVinthrop, which demanded, in 1816, the interest on the ministerial fund toward the support of their Methodist preacher. The town refused this demand, and in 1819 the parish sued the town and obtained final judgment. This, however, did not settle the matter, the general sentiment of the town being that the money should never go to any one denomination. After over ten years of dispute and bad feeling, the town had the good sense in 1832 to agree on a compromise, by which the interest on the minis terial fund has since been applied to the support of common schools. Through the unremitting efforts of Nathaniel Bishop and a few others, a movement to build a church in the village was brought to a successful point in 1825, when the site of the present church was se cured, and the corner stone laid June 24th. The frame was put up at once, but before the roof was on Bishop Soule, who was on his way to conference, preached there, July 3d. The house was soon com pleted, Rev. Stephen Lovell preaching the dedication sermon Novem ber 23d, and the next year he was appointed to this church. The class at that time numbered twenty-one During the pastorate of Rev. D. B. Randall, in 1842, the Congre gationalists joined with the Methodists in series of union revival meetings, resulting in large accessions to both churches. A parsonage was built in 1849. In 1851 the Maine Conference held its twenty- seventh session in Winthrop. While Rev. J. H. Jenne was in charge, in 1854, the church building was enlarged, and the next year new furniture and an organ were purchased. In the fall of 1886, through the special efforts of the pastor, Rev. C. E. Springer, a fine bell was placed on the church, in a new tower built for its reception. July 8, 1890, Winthrop was touched by a cyclone that swept this new tower from the church, landing it on the corner of Chester Shaw's house, about fifty feet away, fatally injuring Mr. Shaw's mother. The following ministers have been stationed on this charge from 1826 to 1892: Stephen Lovell, Moses Hill twice, E. Crooker, G. Greeley, * Nathaniel Bishop, a local preacher. TOWN OF WINTHROP. 835 D. Fuller, A. Caldwell, C. P. Bragdon, E. Hotchkiss, A. P. Hillman, Abel Alton, J. Cleaveland, D. B. Randall, E. Robinson, A. F. Barnard, George Webber twice, Charles W. Morse, Parker Jaques twice, C. Munger, J. H. Jenne, Stephen Allen twice, C. C. Mason, Ezekiel Smith, James McMillan, P. E. Brown, F. C. Ayer, A. R. Sylvester, James Nixon, jun., David Church, G. F. Cobb, C. E. Springer, T. F. Jones, C. E. Bisbee, O. S. Pillsbury and E. T. Adams. Liberal theology was first preached in Winthrop by Universalist ministers, who came occasionally and spoke in school houses. In 1818 Moses Johnson, John Morrill, Jacob Nelson and thirty-eight others living in the towns of Winthrop, Readfield and Wayne, formed what they called the Union Society, and legally organized themselves into a body corporate. A Mr. Mace was their first minister. The number of members increased so that in 1837 the First Universalist Society of AATinthrop was organized, with Rev. George W. Ouinby as preacher. The neat and commodious church building now standing was built in 1838, and Rev. Giles Bailey was ordained as pastor in 1839. Up to 1842 no regular church had been formed, but in June of that year twelve people perfected a church organization. In the autumn of 1842 Mr. Bailey was succeeded by Rev. Frederic Foster for two years. George W. Bates and D. T. Stevens were the next pastors, till 1853, when O. H. Johnson began a very successful pastorate of seven years, followed by Reverends Goff, George W Quinby, A. Bosserman, who came in 1872, and S. P. Smith, from 1878 to 1882. In 1887 religious services were resumed in this church under the auspices of a religious society organized in November of that year, and named the Church of the Unity. Philip S. Thatcher, of the Unitarian church of Augusta, was the first preacher, and drew large and attentive au diences. He was succeeded by Rev. Charles Burrington, Frank A. Gilmore, F. L. Pugsley and others, all Unitarians. In 1791 Elder Potter, a Baptist, preached at East A\rinthrop a few times, and created a Baptist sentiment there. The number of fami lies inclining to this sect gradually increasing, but not sufficiently to form a church in Winthrop, they became an important branch of the Baptist church in Readfield, and so continued for over thirty years. This state of things could not last. The growth of population, and of substantial prosperity, rendered the demand for a church at East Winthrop imperative. In 1823 the Baptists were joined by the community at large, and a duplicate of the Baptist church on Winthrop street, in Hallowell, was erected, costing $3,000— a large sum for those days. The following are the names of some of the foremost workers and payers: Benjamin Perkins, Captain Jonathan Pullen, Colonel Thomas Fillebrown, Luke Perkins, Jonathan Whiting, Eben, Benjamin and Alden Packard, AVilliam Richards, Isaac Wadsworth, Elder Houghton, Joel and Moses 836 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. White, Thomas Lancaster, Simeon Cary, Deacon Wood, Eben Blake and Oliver Wadsworth. Professor Stephen Chapin, of Waterville, preached the dedication sermon, November 19, 1823, and the singing by the choir had been very carefully prepared. The place had so many excellent singers that it became a serious question who should have the honor of sitting at the head of the soprano seat. A committee decided upon Mrs. Simeon Cary. Years after, her son, Nelson H., married Maria Stock- bridge, another local celebrity in music, and Louise Cary, the world renowned singer, was their daughter. On the 22d of June, 1824, a church was organized, consisting of thirty members of the Readfield church, whose homes were in Win throp. Phineas Bond, a licentiate, preached to 129 members the first year, and in May, 1825, Elder John Butler, the first pastor, was in stalled, and served the church for seven years. He was followed by Rev. Samuel Fogg, R. Lowe, Rev. Joshua Millett, Rev. John E. Ingra ham, 1836; Rev. Daniel E. Burbank, 1839; Franklin Merriam, 1840, and Rev. Sampson Powers, 1849. C. W. Bradbury was the next preacher, and in 1858, during the pastorate of his successor, Rev. Hosea Pierce, the church was altered to its present form. The pastorate of Rev. A. Bryant commenced May, 1869, and closed February, 1874; Rev. W. T. Whitmorse was pastor from May, 1874, to December, 1876; Rev. A. R. Crane, supply and pastor from December, 1876, to July, 1890; and Rev. Joseph M. Long commenced his pastorate in December, 1891. The Catholics of Winthrop. very few in number, were originally attended by priests from Augusta, Waterville, Lewiston and Skowhe gan. They had no regular pastor until 1886, when E. F. Hurley formed the society and held services in the town hall. The erection of St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic church, on Lake street, was be gun under his supervision in 1887, J. W. Matthieu, of Farmington, architect and builder, and cost $4,000. The society numbers thirty-five families — about 235 persons. The present pastor, Rev. N. J. Horan, came in 1888. Metcalf Neighborhood. — This locality received its name by the settlement here in 1789, of Deacon Joseph Metcalf, who built that year the first cabinet shop in Winthrop, and worked in it, making fur niture and chairs, for over sixty years. He died on the old place in 1849. The shingles laid by the deacon's own hands on the north side of the shop roof in 1789, are still a fair protection from the weather, after an exposure of three years more than a century. The shingles on the south side of the same roof have been twice renewed. Deacon Metcalf's grandson, Joseph L. Metcalf, resides on the old family farm. There was, on John Blunt's farm, an old ashery that was run down be fore 1790. TOWN OF WINTHROP. 837 The Metcalf neighborhood, full of historic interest, has the oldest burial place in Winthrop, about forty rods east and a little south of which Squier Bishop, the second settler in town, with many square miles of land to select from, built his house and made his home — the house which became famous as being the first tavern, and in which was held the first town meeting. Only a short distance from Deacon Metcalf's cabinet shop another hardy settler, Colonel Fairbanks, also entertained travelers in a house that is still standing, and it is very probable that Talleyrand and the Due D'Orleans, during their trip through Maine, in 1774, rode one morning from Hallowell and stopped at the colonel's to breakfast on their way to Portland. In this vicin ity is also standing the house in which Livy Morton, grandfather of the vice-president, lived, and where Levi P. Morton's father, Daniel O., was born in 1788. Three-fourths of a mile north of the burying ground stood the first church, built in 1774, but never completed, used several years for meet ings, and torn down in 1786. This was indeed the most central and the most important settlement in town for many years. Some of the second and third generations of these rugged settlers were: Benjamin Southworth, Columbus Fairbanks, William Brown, Lazerus Ramsdell, Captain H. N. Dudley, James Lyon, Joseph Carl ton, Ebenezer Morton, Aden Stanley and his sons Morrell and Lem uel, Moses H., Joseph A. and Isaac N, Metcalf, Cephas Thomas, John E. Snell and his brother Elijah, John Kezer, Asa Fairbanks, Alfred Smith, Benjamin R. Prescott, Gorham and John O. Wing, James B. Fillebrown, Stephen and James Pullen, Isaac Briggs, John Williams, William Bearse, Martin Cushing and Austin Alden. Mills and Manufactories. — The imperative wants of a new country are something to eat and a place to live. To supply these demands saw mills and grist mills are almost indispensable. On the water power between the two ponds in Winthrop village have been built at least six of these useful lumber mills. The first was built by John Chandler, where the woolen factory stands, and was running in 1768. Hushai Thomas built the second saw mill, on the third dam. It had its day, and was all gone before 1820. The next was known as the Sewall mill, and was built on dam No. 3, belonging to the cotton company, of which Stephen Sewall was for many years the agent. This mill stood on the east side of the stream, five or six rods south of the present old grist mill. Samuel Bonney was connected with it more or less for fifty years. William C. Fuller and Noah Currier also ran it. Benjamin Dearborn built on the old Perley canal a saw mill which he afterward moved to the Cole dam, No. 4. Nathan Howard and Isaac Bonney bought this mill of Dearborn. Mr. Bonney ran it till 1834, and three years later Luther Whitman bought it. After the destructive fire of 1853, in which this mill went with the rest of the 838 history of kennebec county. Whitman buildings, he built, on the east side of the stream, another saw mill, which was also burned. The first grist mill in town was built by John Chandler, according to the terms of his land contract, probably in 1768, and stood facing the road, on ground where the woolen mill is. It was removed when the cotton company bought the property, in 1809, and another was built by John Chandler, jun., on the west side of the stream, about five rods below where the present brick building, formerly a grist mill, stands. The third grist mill was built on the Perley canal, and the fourth, now standing, was built by Captain Samuel Clark and Oren Shaw. After being operated by various parties, the last being Reuben Fuller, it was sold by E. Miller Clark to Levi Jones and Philip C. Brad ford in 1871. It contained three runs of stones, with bolts for making flour, which used to be done with profit, but that day had passed. After doing a large custom and feed business for a little more than ten years, Levi Jones sold the property to the Winthrop Mills Com pany, which needed the water right. One of the curiosities in the early history of Winthrop was the canal, which, in 1806, Nathaniel Perley, a lawyer from Hallowell, cut from the North pond, crossing the street just east of the hotel, bring ing water to a grist mill, which he built where dwelling houses now stand, south of Main street. Benjamin Dearborn was the miller till the cotton mills company bought the canal property, when the canal was filled up. The grist mill machinery was taken to Monmouth, and Mr. Dearborn moved his saw mill to the stream about 1830. The only grist mill in operation in Winthrop in 1892 belongs to D. H. & J. W. Maxim, and is only adapted to grinding coarse grain. In one part of it is machinery for making sash, doors and blinds. The mill is situated on the west side of the village, and commenced doing business in December, 1891. On the lower dam Simeon G. Davis built the only saw mill now running in town, in which he also has a shingle machine. Before en gaging in his present business he was a cooper on Union street. In 1880 he put a small steam craft on Maranacook lake, and in 1882 he put on a larger boat. In 1891 he had a small boat on Annabessacook lake. A fulling mill was built in 1791, by Cyrus Baldwin, who sold it to Benjamin Allen, by whom it was sold to Liberty Stanley. John Cole was the next owner, and his son, Hiram Cole, ran it. Then another son, Morrell Cole, owned it, and sold it to Mr. Merrill, and he sold one- half of it to Benjamin & Davis, and the other half to Luther Whit man. After the fire of 1853, in which it was burned, Mr. Whitman bought the water right of S. Benjamin & Co. About seventy years ago, in a building where now stands the stone blacksmith shop, on the south side of Main street, was a pottery, in TOWN OF WINTHROP. 839 which Thomas Fuller made plates, jugs, crocks and jars for family use. Capitalists from Boston and Hallowell, long familiar with the noted water power at AVinthrop village, bought, in 1809, water rights and real estate, and incorporated the Winthrop Woolen and Cotton Manufactory, with Amos Barrett as superintendent. A four story fac tory was built of brick, in which machinery was placed as fast as it was ready, most, if not all, of it being made in the place, and all of it collected so slowly that five years passed before the mills were ready for operation. For a time the new enterprise was fairly prosperous. but for some reason the profits dwindled till at the end of twenty years the concern was closed and remained idle for seven years, in charge of Stephen Sewall, the last agent of the old company. In 1841 Josiah Little, of Newburyport, and Josiah Little, jun., of Auburn; Ephraim Wood, of Lewiston; Mr. Jones, of Portland, and a New York city man, bought of the owners in Boston the entire prop erty for about $22,000. The purchase included a saw mill on the east side of the stream, an empty woolen mill on the west side, and a piece of land that extended up to the street, with a house on it. Seward G. Lee, a skillful machinist and an esteemed citizen of Winthrop from that day until his death, came from Massachusetts and put the mills in complete order for the new company, and remained in charge of the machinery for several years, the factory producing cotton sheet ing most of the time, and employing about ninety people. In 1847 Mr. Lee bought an interest in the business, of Mr. A\rood. During the time Stephen Sewall was in charge of the old com pany's property the saw mill and woolen mill were built, the former being known ever after as the Sewall mill. About 1846 Benjamin Cushman, Seward G. Lee and John Metcalf rented the woolen mill and made woolen cloth the first year. Mr. Metcalf sold out to his partners, and Cushman & Lee bought the saw mill and a house of Littles, Wood & Co., and afterward rented the woolen mill to Luther Whitman. Liberty Stanley, the inventor of the shears for shearing cloth, now universally used, carded wool and fulled and dressed cloth in the old woolen mill when it was first built. Lee finally sold his in terest to David Stanley. In 1850 the firm of Littles, Wood & Co. dis- ¦ solved, Mr. AVood bought his partners' interest and ran the business alone, making twine, cotton warp and bunch yarn. Ephraim Wood died in 1865, and that fall Boston capitalists pur chased the entire mill property and organized the present AATnthrop Mills Company, with a capital stock of $150,000. The new company enlarged the building and thoroughly refitted the inside with new machinery adapted to the manufacture of woolen fabrics. The old woolen mill was subsequently cut in two pieces in 1882 and moved off for dwelling houses. In 1882 the present extensive cotton factory 840 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. was built, and dams No. 2 and 3 combined in one to give the requisite water power. Philip C. Bradford was the first resident agent for the owners until about 1871, when John Mcllroy came to Winthrop as the resident agent for the company, and continued till his death in July, 1891, when he was succeeded by his son, Ronald C. Mcllroy. The woolen mills turn out 125,000 pairs of blankets per year. The cotton mills are making cotton warp, and together the two departments employ 150 people. When the old cotton company bought the upper dam, Samuel Ben jamin owned a water power on one corner of the property, on which he had a cabinet and repair shop, with some primitive machinery in it. The new concern purchased this of Mr. Benjamin, but allowed it to stand for two years after, and employed him to make various fix tures and some machinery for the new mill, till the room where it stood was needed. Mr. Benjamin then built a shop on the north side of Main street, where for twenty years prior to 1834 he turned his at tention to his old trade of cabinet and chair making. In 1834 he made for J. A. & H. A. Pitts, in this shop, the first practical grain thresher and separator ever made, and continued making them until the Pitts brothers left town. In 1838 Mr. Benjamin and Cyrus Davis formed a partnership, and in 1841 opened a machine shop on the Cole dam„ where they succeeded the Pitts brothers in the manufacture of grain threshing machinery. Benjamin & Davis dissolved in 1851 and John M. Benjamin became a partner in the business with his father. S. Benjamin & Co. were burned out in the fire of 1853. The same year John M. and his brother, Albion P. Benjamin, built a machine shop near the railroad, south of the depot, in which, early in 1854, they continued the manufacture of horse powers, threshers and separators- This continued till 1862, when they sold the building to C. M. Bailey for his oilcloth works, and closed up their business. By far the most important manufacturing industry in town is the making of oilcloth by C. M. Bailey's Sons & Co. Their works at Baileyville comprise four very extensive buildings and at Winthrop village thirteen buildings. Steam to the amount of 240 horse power and the labor of 200 people are constantly employed, turning out 1,800 pieces per week. The history of the origin and growth of this business is interesting. Ezekiel Bailey lived at Baileyville and had four sons — Dr. Daniel, Moses, George and Charles M. The two former made table oilcloths for several years by hand, and Charles M. trav eled and sold them. About 1842 Charles M. bought his father's inter est and in company with his brother, Moses, began making floor cloths. After a while Moses bought out his brother, Charles M., and ran the factory alone. In 1847 he resold the entire business to his brother, Charles M., and built a new plant at Baileyville. In 185$ Charles M. Bailey was again burned out at Baileyville, but had pur- TOWN OF WINTHROP. 841 chased the plant of Robbins & Hayward, who had recently built an oilcloth factory at Winthrop village. In 1862 these works also were nearly destroyed by fire. He purchased the large machine shop of Benjamin & Davis at Winthrop, and as soon as possible added other buildings and resumed business. From that time to the present en largements and improvements of his plant, both at Baileyville and Winthrop village, have been made almost every year. In 1870 Moses Bailey's works at Baileyville were burned and re built within a year. Before 1880 C. M. Bailey bought Moses Bailey's entire plant and operated it till 1891, when it was again consumed by fire, but workmen were collected to the size of a small army and in less than three months the buildings were replaced, larger and better than ever before, and the entire plant was again in active operation. At Skowhegan C. M. Bailey's Sons & Co. have other works, making them one of the first, if not the largest, manufacturers of oilcloths in America. The manufacture of boots and shoes for the wholesale trade was once an important industry in Winthrop. Between 1830 and 1840 Joshua Wing, Isaac Nelson, Joshua Trufant and S. Johnson Phil brook, all living on the Monmouth road, had shops at their houses, where they each employed several men making men's boots and shoes. The most of this work was sold in New England, but Mr. Nelson used to take some of his goods to New Orleans, which was re garded as quite a trip in those days. In the village Charles A. & B. F. Wing, S. N. Tufts & Co., Israel Matthews & Co. and E. M. Clark made boots and shoes extensively for those times. The Wing brothers em ployed from twenty to thirty hands, and Benjamin F. Wing took their goods to California after 1849, where also a large part of the products of the other shops found a ready market. C. A. Wing continued the longest, but quit in 1889. For the past twenty years coat making for Boston parties has been an established industry in Winthrop. The business was undertaken in 1870, by Henry Penniman, who had been a dry goods and clothing merchant since 1865. He found it so profitable that in 1874 he closed out his store goods and built a shop by the pond, and gave his atten tion wholly to manufacturing, having in his employ frequently over one hundred people. Since 1884 his son, Edgar H. Penniman, has been the proprietor of the manufacturing business, which gives work to twenty hands. Henry Penniman again became a merchant and moved into the Packard Block in 1878, the year it was built. The first manufacture of brick in considerable quantities in Win throp was for the old woolen and cotton mill, built between 1809 and 1814. These brick were furnished by Isaac Bonney, father of Samuel and William Bonney. His kiln, where more than a million brick were made, stood down by the railroad on land now occupied by the Bailey 842 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. oilcloth buildings. His next brick yard was on land now owned by Samuel Bonney, near the mill stream, south of the village. Major Elijah Wood burned and sold a good many kilns of brick a little north of west from W H. Keith's house. Charles Nelson burned brick on the Pond road, on the west side of the pond. At an early day brick were burned near Francis Perley 's. Oakes Howard and Nathan Cobb burned a kiln for their own use on Howard's land. Two brick kilns once stood on Deacon John Cumming's land, at East Winthrop. Amanda Jackson owns land one was on, and AATlliam Nason owns where the other was. The first tannery in the village of Winthrop was built where the woolen mill is, by Colonel Fairbanks, before 1800. Captain Samuel Clark came from Francistown, N. H., in 1803, and built a tannery on the stream below, which he operated till succeeded by his son, E. Miller Clark, in 1837, who ran the business forty years and then sold the property to Bradford and Levi Jones. AVagon making in AVinthrop seems to have been substantially in the hands of the Stanley family for four generations. Aden Stanley settled in the eastern part of the town in 1795 and made cart wheels and cider mill screws, besides his farm work. His sons, Lemuel and Morrell, became noted wagon and chaise makers. Lemuel and his son, Sumner H., located in Winthrop village, where they had a shop for many years. Morrell succeeded to his father's business, rebuilt the old shop in 1838, and made wagon makers of his sons, Charles and Henry. In 1877 Henry built another shop just north of the old one, where he and his son, Albert A., still follow the old trade. Charles and his son, Oren E., retain the original business founded by Aden Stanley nearly a hundred years ago. Always watchful to keep abreast with the times, several enterpris- farmers in 1875 organized the Winthrop Dairy Association, with a stock capital of $10,000, and built the butter and cheese factory still in operation in the northwestern part of the village. J. R. Nelson was the first president, Rutillus Alden was the second, and for the last seven years Albert C. Carr has filled that office. A. D. King, Rutillus Alden, B. W. Chandler and A. C. Carr are directors, Elliott AA'ood sec retary, and George Howard treasurer. The Portland Packing Company in 1882 leased land at the foot of the lake and put up their present factory, where they filled 250,000 cans in 1891, employing one hundred hands for about a month. Five men are kept the remainder of the year making the tin cans. Old Settlers.— Beginning at the village, on the Portland road, Gideon Lambert was an old settler, owning the land where the rail road depot stands. He was one of Abercrombie's soldiers, and fought in the war that preceded the revolution. Ichabod How, afterward a member of the continental congress that met at Cambridge, Mass., was TOWN OF WINTHROP. 843 his neighbor. Deacon Johnson was another, and further along were Nathan Howard, father of Oakes Howard, a house builder, active in politics and foremost in matters of public concern; Deacon Joseph Fairbanks, a Mr. Orcott, Isaac Nelson and Nathan F. Cobb, a mason by trade. Major Elijah Wood, who had a store on Main street early, subse quently built a store opposite William H. Keith's present residence, about 1815, where he traded for twenty years under a sign reading, " English and West India Goods," the foremost article of which, in those days, was rum. Before 1810 Dr. Peleg Benson, who lived where Moses C. Frost does, built on what was then known as the Sewall Page, but now called the Maxwell brook, a cloth dressing mill on the north side of the road, on what is now the Leonard N. Berry farm. Joseph Fairbanks, in 1814, had a trip-hammer, run by water, in the same building, with shops for iron and wood working. After this James Curtis used the build ing for a cider mill, grinding the apples by water power. On the other side of the road Charles Foss had a tannery, and a water wheel to run his bark mill. John Maxwell continued the tanning business after Mr. Foss, till 1845. The land now belongs to Willard Maxwell. There was also an ashery on Doctor Benson's farm. On the cross road were Captain Barney Haskell, Henry Stanley, Samuel King, Thomas Jacobs, an English sailor, Samuel Harvey, Wil liam Lowell, from Bath, son of Dea. J. K. Lowell; John Lewis, a stone cutter and a great mathematician; Lafayette Chandler, grandson of John Chandler, who built mills in the village; Noah Chandler, Enoch Swift, on lot No. 145, on the top of Pisgah; Barnabas AA7ing, Gideon Dexter and John Frost. On the road from Haskell's Corner were: Richard Humphrey, Jabez Bacon, a great Bible reader; Rial Stanley, Eli Lake, Mordica Morton, Jonathan Buzzell, Captain John Fuller, at Fuller's hill, who came from Cape Cod; and the Hazel ton family, where Rufus K. Berry lives. In the northwest part of the town some of the old settlers were: Mr. Fellows, on whose farm a moose was killed about 1800 (the lot where it was killed is still called " Moose pasture "); John Fuller, and Freeman Dexter, a carpenter, who built the Congregational church. Of the next generation were Jona than Buzzell and ex-Sheriff William C. Fuller. Schools.— The attendance in 1891 was as follows: East Winthrop, 35; Winthrop Center, 31; Snell school, 22; Howard school, 12; Mt. Pisgah, 17; Union school, 13; Kimball district, 15; Maranacook, 9; ATil- lage district — primary department 68, intermediate 38, grammar 47, free high school 40. In 1887 the Knight district was consolidated with the Village district, and in 1890 the Sturtevant district was joined with a district in Readfield. In 1891 the school committee shortened the terms of the Village school and lengthened the terms of some of the 844 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. other districts, making them all the uniform time of thirty weeks each. It is confidently believed the schools of the town of Winthrop have never been in as satisfactory a condition as now, particularly the high school, in charge of Professor Frederic W. Plummer. The number of school children in town who drew public money in 1804, was 685; but in 1891 was only 520. A small family of children was as rare then as a large one is now. Considering the scarcity of money, the taxes must have been burdensome a hundred years ago. In 1792 the school tax was £35; in 1794, £60; in 1797, $333; and in 1807 and for several years following it was $700. Town Reports.— The sixth annual report of Charles A. Wing, chief engineer of the fire department, shows a most favorable, and in some respects a remarkable, series of facts. For the past two years there has been no fire within the village limits requiring the use of hydrant or hose. The entire department is maintained in a condition of continual readiness and efficiency, at a cost to the town of less than $100 a year. The Winthrop water works were constructed in 1883, as the only practical way to reduce insurance rates. After fierce agitation the village raised $1,000 by subscription, and the town voted $3,000, with which 3,000 feet of four-inch iron pipe was laid, ten hydrants were lo cated, a powerful pump was placed in the basement of the woolen fac tory, and a thousand feet of hose and two hose carts were purchased. Since then a hose house, with a drying tower fifty feet high, has been built, and other necessary fixtures purchased, increasing the total cost to $5,000, which is an unusually low figure for the results achieved. To operate this effective fire apparatus, the Payson Tucker Hose Com pany was organized in 1883, with twenty-five active, able-bodied mem bers, which number is still maintained. The latest report of the selectmen shows that when it was made the town farm had but one charity boarder. This farm was purchased in 1837 of Jesse L. Fairbanks, for $2,100, with money received as AArin- throp's share of surplus revenue divided by the general government among the different states that year. This step was in keeping with a growing disapproval of the oft-abused practice of farming out the unfortunate poor to the lowest bidder. In 1887 the house on the town farm was burned, necessitating the expenditure of over $3,000 in re building. Banks. — The Winthrop Bank, incorporated in 1824, with a capital of $50,000, when the only banks in Kennebec county were at Hallo well, Augusta and Gardiner, shows the business requirements of that day. Samuel Wood was president, and Thomas J. Lee was cashier. Its business was done in the southeast corner room of Dr. A. P. Snow's present residence. After a short but honorable career, its owners decided to close its affairs. After redeeming most of its bills TOWN OF WINTHROP. 845 and settling with its depositors, Samuel Wood became responsible for the adjustment of the balance of its affairs. Mr. Lee, who was a teacher and a school book author of some note, opened a school in the room the bank had used, and attended to all the details of final settle ment. The Bank of Winthrop was incorporated under the state laws in 1853. E. M. Clark, Stephen Sewall, Erastus W. Kelley, David Stan ley, Charles M. Bailey, Wellington Hunton, Benjamin Stockin, Ste phen Gammon and Otis Hayford were directors; Charles M. Bailey was president and David Stanley cashier. The capital stock was $50,000, increased to $75,000, and bills were issued. After doing a prosperous business for about ten years, the directors chose to close up their business rather than pay the ten per cent, on their circula tion then required by act of congress. The National Bank of Winthrop was organized with Charles M. Bailey, David Stanley, Ephraim Wood, Philip C. Bradford and Levi Jones as directors. The doors were opened for business November 28, 1864, with Charles M. Bailey, president, and John M. Benjamin cashier. That portion of the affairs of the Bank of Winthrop then unsettled was assumed by the new bank. At the end of twenty years the charter was renewed. In addition to those named, Moses Bailey, Francis H. Mclntyre, Charles A. Wing, Reuben T. Jones, George A. Longfellow and Henry Winslow are, or have been, directors. During all these years there has been no change in the executive officers of the bank. Mr. Benjamin's labors have been particularly arduous and his services eminently satisfactory. The Winthrop Savings Bank was chartered and began doing busi ness in February, 1872, in the banking room of the AVinthrop Na tional Bank. The trustees were: Levi Jones, Charles A. Wing, Moses Bailey, F. H. Mclntyre and Joseph S. Berry. Levi Jones was presi dent and John M. Benjamin was treasurer. This institution was very prosperous till, on the night of July 22, 1875, the building was entered by professional burglars, both safes were blown open, and cash and bonds taken in amounts that ultimately made each bank a loser of -over $10,000. The savings bank closed up its business and paid its depositors seventy-three cents on a dollar. Post Offices. — Winthrop village has one of the five post offices which were established in the county in 1795. The first postmaster, Benjamin Allen, was commissioned January 1st. The successive incumbents have been: Silas Lambert, appointed March 14, 1797; David W. Pierce, April 17, 1823; George W. Stanley, January 27, 1830; David Stanley, December 21, 1835: Cyrus Bishop, June 12, 1841; David Stanley, May 2, 1845; Cyrus Bishop, June 4, 1849; Joseph R. Stanley, May 16, 1853; Cyrus Bishop, August 7, 1861; Charles Morrill, January 17, 1862; Mary M. Stanley, September 1, 1868; Henry Woodward, 846 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. March 10, 1877; Elliott Wood, March 28, 1881; Henry Penniman, De cember 3, 1886; and Charles D. AATood, December 6, 1890. The Winthrop Centre post office has been in care of Levi Rich mond since its establishment, on the 15th of January, 1886. East Winthrop has had a post office since December 26, 1828, when David Eastman was made postmaster. Horace Parlin took the office in June, 1830, and was succeeded in October, 1847, by Azel Perkins, who kept the office twenty years. Lyman White was succeeded in 1871, by George A. AVadsworth. Cemeteries.— One of the first provisions of the infant town of Winthrop was to secure a lot for burial purposes. At an adjourned town meeting, held one week from its first session, the selectmen re ported " A burying place which will best commode the present inhab itants lies upon the highway running by Mr. Bishop's, on Mr. Pullen's lot, bounded southerly on said highway, containing one acre lying in a square form." This well known ground, sacred to the memory of so many men and women who founded Winthrop, is the oldest within its borders. An infant daughter of Stephen Pullen had been buried on this plot before the town was incorporated. The next ground ac cepted by the town was given by John Chandler, and is now the vil lage cemetery. The East Winthrop ground must have been in use very early, from its proximity to the neighborhood that formed the first Baptist society. The Fairbanks grave yard, near the town farm, is also the resting place of many pioneers. Eighty-three years ago Josiah Bacon gave one-half acre of land for a public burying ground. The town took charge of the lot, which in process of time was filled. About 1880 a piece, which is also nearly covered with graves, was taken from the Jonathan L. Stanley estate. Here the tired bodies of a large number of the best known residents have been laid in their last earthly repose. Some of them are: Samuel King, William Lowell, Thomas Jacobs, Jabez Bacon, Rial Stanley, Jo seph Fairbanks, Nathan Howard, Nathan T. Cobb, William Buzzell, Barney Haskell, Nathaniel Kimball and the wife of each. Hotels. — The Winthrop Hotel was built for a two-story residence about 1800, by Captain Barney Haskell, since which time it has been enlarged and remodeled, but the old building is still a part of the present one. Mrs. Miller owned and kept it after Captain Haskell. Since then some of its landlords have been: A. M. Shaw, John Lover ing, Dakin, Cooledge, Zack Morgan, Sherburn Morrell, Almaren Bodge, Crosby Shorey, Orrin M. Shaw, Elijah L. Stanton, W. F. Lovejoy and Richardson & Webb. Joseph Warren Eaton, the present owner, bought it, and after running it awhile, leased it to other parties. Deacon Daniel Carr came to Winthrop about 1814, and succeeded Dean Howard in the hotel business until 1849, in the house now owned TOWN OF WINTHROP. 847 by his daughter, Mrs. Helen C. Flint. Becoming convinced that sell ing liquor was wrong, he closed the bar and kept the first temperance house in Maine. Colonel Fairbanks at one time kept a hotel where now is L. O. Cobb's hardware store. Joel Chandler kept an early inn a few rods east of the present town hall. Societies. — The order of Masonry was planted very early in Win throp. The charter issued by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts reads that upon petition, " Nathaniel Herrick, Thomas Beckett, Josiah Dewey, Abisha Benson, Jonathan Judkins, John Harvey, Daniel Cros man and Jonathan G. Hunton were constituted and appointed The Temple Lodge No. 25, September 8, 1817." The Lodge's first meeting under the new charter, held October 20th following, was presided over by Nathaniel Herrick, the first master. His successors have been: David Campbell, 1818; Dr. Issacher Snell, 1819; Abiel Dailey, 1820; Alexander Belcher, 1822; Lory Bacon, 1824; Isaac Snell, 1825; Jedediah B. Prescott, 1826; Asa Fairbanks, 1827; W. D. Eastman, 1828; Samuel Webb, 1829; Asa Fairbanks, 1830. For the next twenty-seven years there are no records, and probably there were no meetings. David Cargill was elected chief officer in 1858; Sumner H. Stanley in 1860; F. E. AVebb, 1861; A. P. Snow, 1863; F. E. AVebb, 1866; L. P. Moody, 1867; A. R. Sylvester, 1870; P. H. Snell, 1871; Luther Cobb, 1873; El liott Wood, 1874; W. E. Whitman, 1876; W. H. Pettingill, 1878; R. C. Mcllroy, 1879; E. A. AVood, 1881; J. H. Mcllroy, 1883; C. H. Robin son, 1884; Elliott Wood, 1885; E. H. Penniman, 1887; F. I. Bishop, 1889; and J. E. Mcllroy, 1891. The successive high priests of Winthrop Chapter, R. A. M., have been: D. G. White, from 1873; Dr. C. A. Cochrane, 1877; W. E. Whit man, 1883; and Daniel Gordon, since 1886. The Winthrop Grange, P. of H., No. 209, was chartered February 15, 1876, with thirty-six charter members, and has included in its membership many of the most progressive and successful farmers of the town. Montana Lodge, No. 2, A. O. U. W-, was organized May 4, 1880, the second in Maine, with twenty charter members. Dr. C. W. Taggart was elected first P. M. AV., and E. S. French, M. W., which office has since been filled by A. Campbell, C. H. Robinson, J. E. Clark, C. C. Stackpole, L. M. Alley, F. I. Bishop, C. F. Tinker, John T. Clough, J. H. Bates, J. E. Lewis and M. C. Simpson. Winthrop Commandery, No. 240, Order of the Golden Cross, was organized June 18, 1883, with fifteen charter members. John A. Hutchins was the first noble commander, and L. M. Alley was sec retary. Crystal Lodge, No. 94, I. O. of O. F., was instituted November 1, 1882, at Winthrop village, with eight charter members. Henry V. 54 848 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Dudley was the first N. G., and Eugene S. French was secretary. The Lodge numbers ninety members, and the order is in a flourishing con dition. East Winthrop village was a prosperous settlement seventy years ago. It was a natural center for several miles of fine farming country, east, west and north, to come during the week for trade and on the Sabbath to church. On the southeast the Cobbosseecontee lake dis plays a variety of beauties and will always be a permanent attraction to this locality as a place of residence. The one attractive spot in the country hamlet was, at that time far more than now, the country store. W. H. Parlin, who spent his life at East Winthrop, made the following statement in the Winthrop Ban ner, published in that village: " The sign for country stores at that time was ' W. I. Goods and Groceries.' This meant gin, rum, brandy, sugar and molasses for the first part, and everything conceivable for the remainder. Ardent spirits were then used by all, and on all occasions, sacred or secular. Especially were they thought a necessity at trainings, musters, rais ings, in haying time, and when washing sheep." After Zenas Cary, Joseph Cummings and Jesse Follet were the store-keepers, succeeded by the Union Store for ten years. Azel Perkins conducted it for the stockholders, and then bought them out and continued to trade till his death, five years later. Lyman White, Mrs. Lyman White after his death, James Keene, George and Arthur Williams and George A. Wadsworth have been the store-keepers since. The oldest industries, inducing people to form a settlement, were a saw mill, two tan yards and an ashery, all built so early that the names of their first proprietors are not known. The saw mill stood at the head of the Mill pond, the ashery and one tan yard were a little east of the pond and the other tan yard was on the east side of Twelve brook. Alonzo and Joseph Wood had a fulling mill in a building near by, that did business many years. Brick for local use were made near the pond, and for a short time before 1830 William Jameson made wool hats in this growing ham let. But the greatest industry East Winthrop ever enjoyed was founded about 1840, by Horace Parlin, who conceived and put in ac tive operation the plan of making boots by hand on a large scale. His two brothers, S. W. and W. H. Parlin, soon joined him, and H. Parlin & Co. tanned their own stock and made boots at the rate of nearly a thousand pairs a month for several years, giving employment to thirty men. The work done here enjoyed an excellent reputation all over New England, but the perfection of machinery and system in large boot and shoe manufactories finally drove the hand workers from the field. The firm dissolved in 1865, after which E. M. Parlin town of winthrop. 849 and H. M. Packard ran the shops as long as profitable and closed the business about 1887. Perhaps the golden age of East Winthrop was when Rev. John Butler's Female Seminary, noticed at page 103, was drawing to that village young ladies from the best families throughout the state. Benjamin Packard, soon after 1820, built a new house, on one corner of which appeared the sign B. Packard's Tavern, where for many years he was known as an obliging landlord and his house as the center of East Winthrop. This building stood where the resi dence of Virgil C. Jackson was burned in 1891. According to Mr. Parlin, the principal edifices in the vicinity in 1825-30 were located approximately as shown on this plan: — 1, Jonathan Pullen; 2, " Blunt House " ; 3, B. Packard's tavern; 4, church; 5, Josiah Houghton; 6, Z. Cary's store; 7, Rev. J. Butler; 8, James Pullen; 9, school house; 10, John Cummings; 11, William Thomas; 12, David Eastman; 13, H. Parlin & Co., boot shop; 14, Wil liam Richards; 15, blacksmith shop; 16, Horace Parlin; 17, burying ground; 18, John Wadsworth; 19, Samuel Richards; 20, James Brain ard; 21, Oren Brainard; 22, R. Brainard; 23, tannery; 24, fulling mill; 25, brick yard; 26, " Potash " ; 27, saw mill; 28, J. Matthews; 29, Jona than Whiting, 2d; 30, Jonathan AVhiting, 3d; 31, Nathaniel Whiting; 32, Eben Packard; 33, Caleb Jackson; 34, Luke Perkins; 35, Moses White; 36, Nathaniel Lovering; 37, Solomon Easty; 38, Thomas Lan caster; 39, Joel White, jun.; 40, Joel White; 41, Joseph Packard; 42, Alden Packard; 43, Simeon Cary; 44, Enoch Wood; 45, Benjamin Perkins, Simeon Chase; 46, blacksmith shop; 47, Nathan Foster. 850 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Snell Brook.— On this stream, at or near where Pope's wedge factory stands, Jedediah Prescott, jun., who came to Winthrop in 1780, bought land and built a grist mill. He also had a saw mill which, the traditions of that neighborhood say, was built before he came there About 1800 Deacon Elijah Snell bought the property and built the second saw mill, the first being worn out. The grist mill gradually went down, but the saw mill was run by his brother, John E. Snell, for many years. About 1850 the saw mill was again rebuilt, by Bowker & Ramsdell, and kept in operation about fifteen years. In 1865 Jacob Pope moved a building from Manchester and set it on the dam where the old grist and saw mills had stood, fitted it with a trip-hammer, and began making steel wedges for use in granite quarries. J. Pope & Son still continue the business, which has been in successful operation for over twenty-five years. On the other side of the road, and a little further down the stream, Ezra Briggs, about 1830, built a tannery, which was next used by Daniel Coy for a shin gle mill. In 1843 Luther Perkins began the manufacture of hoes there, iwhich he continued till 1849, when the business was dropped and the building was used for awhile as a shop. On the present road from Winthrop village to Wayne, Rufus Berry built on the Berry brook a saw mill that was run until about 1840. Colonel Nathaniel Fairbanks built, on his farm in the Metcalf neigh borhood, a tannery which he was operating in 1788. On J. H. Moore's land are the remains of an old lime kiln built and run by Major Eli jah Wood. On the west side of Meadow brook, that runs from Kezer pond, and on the north side of the road, where it crosses the Daniel Robbins farm, Ezra Briggs had a tannery that had outlived its useful ness previous to 1840. Cider Mills. — Cider mills became plenty in the early part of the century. Nathaniel Kimball, William Buzzell, Jonathan L. Stanley, David Fairbanks, Amasa King, Captain Barney Haskell, Jabez Bacon and Doctor Benson all had cider mills. In the eastern and central parts of the town Stephen Pullen, Amos Woodward, Aden Stanley, John Kezer, Welcome Ladd, F. B. Williams, John Martin, Elias Whit ing, Deacon John Cummings, Jonathan Whiting, Joel White, Stewart Foster, Benjamin Fairbanks and Daniel Allen had mills for grinding the apples raised in their own flourishing orchards, and for extracting the juice from their neighbors' surplus crops of this staple fruit. Centennial.— The completion of the first century of the town's civil life was celebrated May 20, 1871, by suitable public exercises, participated in by the citizens and their guests. The historical ad dress was delivered by Hon. S. P. Benson, and many former residents of Winthrop honored themselves and the occasion by their presence. town of winthrop. 851 Civil Lists'. — The Selectmen elected at the first town meeting of AVinthrop, May 27, 1771, were: Timothy Foster, who served 3 years; Ichabod How, who served 7 years; and Jonathan Whiting, who served 6 years. In 1772 John Blunt was first elected and served 1 year; in 1773, Gideon Lambert, served 3 years; in 1774, Joseph Baker, 1 year; 1775, John Chandler, 2, and William Armstrong, 1; 1776, Joseph Stev ens, 1; 1777, Stephen Pullen, 1; 1778, Joshua Hall, 1, and Eben Daven port, 1; 1779, AVilliam Whittier, 2, and James Craig, 1; 1780, Benja min Brainard, 4, and Solomon Stanley, 5; 1781. Josiah French, 1, and Jonathan Sleeper, 1; 1782, James Work, 3, Nathaniel Whittier, jun., 1, Nathaniel Fairbanks, 9, and Benjamin Fairbanks, 3; 1784, Joshua Bean, 3; 1786, William Pullen, 1; 1787, Jedediah Prescott, jun., 2, Rob ert Page, 1, Philip Allen, 4, Samuel Wood, 15, and John Hubbard, 4; 1789, Amos Stephens, 2; 1791, John Comings, 2, and Jonathan Whit ing, jun., 1; 1794, John Wadsworth, 3; 1795, Enoch Wood, 1; 1796, Elijah Wood, 1; 1797, Charles Harris, 1; 1798, John Kezer, 4, and Andrew Wood, 7; 1799, Moses Wood, 2; 1800, Joseph Metcalf, 5; 1801, Silas Lambert, 3, and William Richards, 2; 1802, Elijah Fairbanks, 2 1803, John May, 14; 1804, Nat. Kimball, 3; 1805, Thomas Eastman, 1 1806, Isaac Smith, 1; 1807, Dudley Todd, 3, and Hushai Thomas, 4 1810, Alexander Belcher, 6; 1812, Peter Stanley, 3; 1814, Asa Fair banks, 2; 1816, Samuel Holt, 1; 1817, Sylvanus Thomas, 1, and Samuel Clark, 4; 1818, Daniel Haywood, 1; 1820, Benjamin Perkins, 1, and Daniel Campbell, 1; 1821, John Morrill, 8; 1823, Wadsworth Foster, 1; 1824, Thomas Fillebrown, 1, and Levi Fairbanks, 3; 1825, Nathaniel Howard, 1, and David Eastman, 4; 1826, Benjamin Dearborn, 3; 1828, Francis Perley, 1; 1829, John Richards, 5; 1832, Thurston W. Stephens, 2; 1833, Oren Shaw, 1; 1834, Benjamin Robbins, 2; 1836, Isaac Bon ney, 1, Moses White, 1, and Oakes Howard, 11; 1837, Noah Currier, 2; 1838, Moses B. Sears, 6, and Francis Fuller, 13; 1839, Thomas C.Wood, 5; 1840, John Fairbanks, 4; 1843, Samuel Benjamin, 1, and Ezekiel Bailey, 1; 1844, Samuel P. Benson, 5, and Jonathan L. Stanley, 4; 1848, Erastus W. Kelley, 2; 1849, James B. Fillebrown, 1; 1852, Zelotes A. Marrow, 2, and Stephen Gammon, 2; 1854, Moses Bailey, 2, and Joshua Wing, 2; 1856, Eben Marrow, 3, George A. Longfellow, 11; 1864, Jo seph R. Nelson, 3; 1865, Luther Whitman, 1, and Albert C. Carr, 1; 1866, J. E. Brainard, 6; 1869, Reuben T. Jones, 6; 1870, R. E. Fuller, 3, and E. S. Briggs, 4; 1871, F. H. Mclntire, 8; 1873, A. G. Chandler, 4; 1874, S. T. Floyd, 1; 1877, D. G. White, 1, and Martin A. Foster, 1; 1878, Elliott Wood, 9; 1880, Rutillus Alden, 4; 1881, W. H. Parlin, 1; 1882, T. H. White, 4; 1884, Levi Jones, 4, and Henry Penniman, 3; 1887, C. D. Wood, 2; 1888, P. H. Snell, 3; 1889, J. E. Lewis, 1; 1890, W. H. Keith, 1, and L. O. Cobb, 3; 1891, Fred. C. Robie, 2. The Town Clerks, each serving until the election of the next, have been: Jonathan Whiting, first elected in 1771; Ichabod How, 1774; 852 history of kennebec county. Josiah Hall, 1776; Ichabod How, 1779; Jonathan Whiting, 1781; James Work, 1782; Nathaniel Fairbanks, 1784; Jonathan Whiting, 1785; Jed ediah Prescott, jun., 1787; John Hubbard, 1789; John Comings, 1.791 Nathaniel Fairbanks, 1792; Samuel Wood, 1798; Moses Wood, 1799 Joseph Metcalf, 1800; Silas Lambert, 1801; Joseph Tinkham, 1803 John May, 1805; Samuel Benjamin, 1815; Seth May, 1824; Cyrus Bishop, 1825; Samuel Wood, jun., 1829; Pliny Harris, 1833; Samuel Benjamin, 1837; Edward Mitchel, 1838; Cyrus Bishop, 1843; Samuel Wood, jun., 1846; John M. Benjamin, 1849; Cyrus Bishop, 1862; Lugan P. Moody, 1870; B. R. Reynolds, 1876; E. O. Kelley, 1877; and E. S. French since 1891. The first Treasurer of Winthrop was Jonathan Whiting, whose successors, with date of first election, have been: John Chandler, 1773; Stephen Pullen, 1785; Nathaniel Fairbanks, 1786; Samuel Wood, 1788; Jonathan Whiting, jun., 1789; Benjamin Fairbanks, 1791; John Com ings, 1792; Joseph Metcalf, 1793; Benjamin Fairbanks, 1799; Nathan iel Fairbanks, 1802; Barney Haskell, 1805; Dean Howard, 1807; Isaac Bonney, 1824; Albert Haywood, 1828; Alexander Belcher, 1830; Sam uel Clark, 1837; Gustavus A. Benson, 1847; Alexander Belcher, 1848; David Stanley, 1852;. Erastus W. Kelley, 1854; David Stanley, 1856; F. E. Webb, 1863; and John M. Benjamin since 1870. personal paragraphs. John P. Allen, born December 1, 1829, in Augusta, was a son of Lemuel and Mary (Philbrick) Allen. He was educated in the schools of Augusta, at Kents Hill and at Hallowell Classical Institute. He was a farmer in Augusta until his death, in 1870. He married in 1859, Lydia J., daughter of John and Sarah (Coombs) Jewett, and had four children: Winfield S., Arthur P., Annie R. (Mrs. M. G. Thompson), and Isadore R. Mrs. Allen owns a farm in AVinthrop, where she has lived since 1885. • Moses Bailey. — Among the citizens of the town of Winthrop who have won a place in the memory of their fellow men, and who, by their exemplary lives and energy and ability for business, have made them selves a part of the history of the town, Moses Bailey is prominent and deserves especial mention. He came of strong English ancestry, his great-grandfather probably coming from England to Plymouth county, Mass., during the oppressive reign of the Stuarts, and the family became settled in Hanover. His grandfather, Jacob Bailey, came from Massachusetts to Leeds, Me., in the year 1786. Jacob's son, Ezekiel, married Hannah Robbins, of Winthrop, and settled at Win throp, where their second son, Moses, was born, the 18th of December, 1817. In 1828 the wife of Ezekiel Bailey died, after a lingering illness, and in 1830 he married Mary, the sister of his first wife. Ezekiel town of winthrop. 853 Bailey lived to the advanced age of eighty years, a man of great vigor both of mind and body. Moses Bailey entered Friends Boarding School at Providence, R. I., at the age of sixteen and remained there part of three years, 1834- 1836 inclusive. He was a careful student and these three years of training in the school were of great value through all his life. After leaving school he began his business life, working for his father, manu facturing oilcloth. When about twenty-one years of age, he with his brother, Charles M., purchased the business, which was then only in embryo. By industry, push and good management they improved the methods of the manufacture and vastly enlarged the business. After working a few years in company with his brother, he finally sold his interest to the latter and built an extensive factory at Winthrop Cen tre. He was always ready both to oversee every part of the work and also to perform any part of the labor with his own hands. The work went on and prospered in this factory until it was destroyed by fire in 1870. Moses Bailey was married in his twenty-third year, to Betsey Jones, daughter of Reuben Jones, of Winthrop. Though they began life in an humble way, they soon found themselves in comfortable circum stances, and in 1856 Moses built the large and commodious house, which has ever since been the family home. Moses Bailey was a birthright member of the Society of Friends, and was an exemplary Christian both in faith and life. For twenty- two years he was clerk of Winthrop monthly meeting, and he was clerk of Fairfield quarterly meeting for the period of thirteen years, while by his influence and ability he held a high place in the work of this society throughout New England. The causes of temperance, peace and education always had his hearty support. In March, 1867, his wife died after a long sickness, and in October, 1868, he was mar ried to Hannah C. Johnston, daughter of David Johnston, of Platte- kill, Ulster county, N. Y. From 1870, when his factory was destroyed by fire, until the autumn of 1875 he was not closely occupied with business, and not being in good health he traveled considerably during these years, but near the close of 1875 he purchased, in Camden, N. J., an oilcloth factory which he enlarged and improved. In 1871 he, in company with J. S. Marrett, had opened a carpet store in Portland under the firm name of Marrett, Bailey & Co. This enterprise, together with the manufacture of oilcloth in Camden, which work he placed under the immediate management of his nephew, Lincoln D. Farr, continued to occupy him until his death, which occurred on the 6th of June, 1882. He left one son, Moses Melvin, who was. born in 1869. Moses Bailey left a large property and his whole career was at tended by prosperity, but he worked hard and faithfully for what 854 HISTORY of kennebec county. came to him and his success has helped make many others successful. He was a quiet, reserved man, but broad minded and liberal, and his life eminently belongs with the class of lives which makes the world richer and better. A. Herbert Bailey, born in 1855, is the eldest son of George, and grandson of Ezekiel Bailey. He was for ten years clerk in a dry goods store in Augusta. April 1, 1883, he bought a grocery business of Charles D. AA^ood, and in 1885 took as partner his brother, Eugene M. Bailey, and did business as A. H. Bailey & Co. until March, 1891, when they were succeeded by Huxford, Webb & Co. Mr. Bailey has for several years been interested in Western real estate, and is now devoting all his attention to that business. He married Mary F., daughter of Dea. Henry AVoodard, and their children are: Sarah W., Janette M. and A. Herbert, jun. Willis C. Bailey, son of George Bailey, was born in 1865. He worked at the jewelry business three years in Winthrop, for A. E. Wheeler, and in August, 1889, bought the business, and has since con ducted it. James Baker, born in 1832 at Palmyra, Me., is a son of Oliver C. and Sabrina Baker. He went to California in 1857, and was mining there until 1866, excepting seventeen months that he served in the army in Company I, 7th California. Since 1868 he has lived in Win throp, and is a farmer and oilcloth maker. He married Mrs. Clara A. Whiting, daughter of Zelotes A. Morrow. She had one son by her former marriage, Will A. Whiting. Horace M. Bearse, born in Turner, Me, in 1826, is a son of Oren and Susan (Harlow) Bearse, and grandson of Asa Bearse. He worked at shoemaking for eight years in Brockton, Mass., and in 1860 came to Winthrop, where he is a farmer. His wife, Sarah A. Alden, died leaving five children: Alice T., Jeffie S., Fred H., Susie E. and Annie L. Frank I. Bishop, youngest child of Ransom and Harriet B. (Wood) Bishop, and grandson of Nathaniel Bishop (1766-1854), was born in 1856, and is a carpenter by trade. His father and grandfather were both traders in Winthrop and Nathaniel kept the Bishop tavern for several years, and was a prominent member of the early Methodist church in Winthrop. Mr. Bishop married M. Theresa, daughter of Lewis Cobb. John E. Brainard, a farmer at East Winthrop, born in 1823, is a son of Oren and Sarah (Earl) Brainard, and grandson of Benjamin Brain ard, who settled the farm where Mr. Brainard now lives, prior to 1770, and was the first school teacher in the town. Mr. Brainard was a school teacher ten terms, and selectman six years, three of which he was chairman. He has represented his district in the legislature, and has been a member of the state board of agriculture three years. He 0- O cc I TOWN OF WINTHROP. 855 married Nancy B., daughter of Elias and Marinda (Hale) Whiting, and has two sons: Arthur E. and Albion H. George R. Briggs is the only child of Benjamin P. and Susan (Snell) Briggs, and grandson of Rowland Briggs, who came from Massa chusetts to East Winthrop. Mr. Briggs was a shoemaker until 1S85, and since that time he has been employed as wedge maker by J. Pope & Son. His father and grandfather were both shoemakers. Mr. Briggs married Harriet Woodman, of Campello, Mass., and they have two children: William P. and George Arthur. Joseph E. Briggs, born in 1840, is a son of Ezra and Pheba (God dard) Briggs, and grandson of Ezra Briggs. He was seven years in the employ of Charles M. Bailey, and from 1867 to 1881 was in com pany with Levi Jones manufacturing oilcloth by the yard for the Bailey Company. January 1, 1881, the firm of C. M. Bailey's Sons & Co. was formed and Mr. Briggs has since been one of its members. He has charge of the Winthrop Centre works. He married October 3, 1866, Emma S., daughter of Charles M. Bailey. Moses Briggs, born in 1813, is a son of Ezra and Mary (Wadsworth) Briggs, and grandson of William Briggs. Mr. Briggs' father and some of the sons were tanners and shoemakers. Mr. Briggs was a blacksmith for many years in Winthrop Centre and other places, and for the past eighteen years he has been a farmer and fruit grower. He married Lucy, daughter of David Burr, Esq. She died, leaving one daughter, Mary W. His second wife was Lavinia, daughter of Elijah Winslow, and their three children were: E. Winslow, Lucy C. (Mrs. R. T. Elliott) and Frank E. Albert C. Carr, of Winthrop, the "apple king" of Kennebec county, was born in East Readfield in 1828. He was the ninth of the family of eleven children of Benjamin and Eunice (Lane) Carr. His grandfather, Benjamin, who was the son of Joseph and Martha (Sanborn) Carr, came from New Hampshire to Readfield in 1779. Albert learned the shoemaking trade at North Bridgewater, Mass., when a young man; and in 1848, when the gold fever broke out on the Pacific coast, he started for California, and was, it is claimed, the first Maine man to start for the mines. After varying success at the " diggings," he returned East in 1851, and in 1855 came to AATinthrop. The following year he bought the Moses White farm, where he now resides, and which he has cultivated from that time to this, with the exception of an interval of three years, from 1857 to 1860, spent again in California. Mr. Carr is a very large and remarkably successful dealer in apples, shipping annually to home and foreign markets from 5,000 to 30,000 barrels of the fruit. He has been selectman one year, deputy sheriff four years, tax collector twenty-six years, and trustee of Monmouth Academy for the last fifteen years. His deceased wife, Mary A. AVatson, bore him seven children, 856 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. three of whom are living: Lestena (Mrs. William H. Lyon, jun., of Manchester), A. Byron and Laura (Mrs. Fred. A.Jackson of Winthrop). Mr. Carr's beautiful farm house at East Winthrop is the subject of the accompanying illustration. Braddock W. Chandler, born in 1827, is one of eleven children of Lafayette and Sophronia (Weeks) Chandler, and grandson of Joel, whose father, John Chandler, came to AVinthrop in 1767, and built the first mills at the village. Mr. Chandler is a farmer and cattle broker, as was his father until his death in 1837, aged forty-five years. He married Sarah, daughter of Amos Shed. Their children are: Marilla G. (Mrs. Fred H. Bearce), Willard S. (deceased), Maria E., Sarah M. and Gertrude S. L. Owen Cobb, born October 5, 1847, is the youngest and only sur vivor of four children of Leonard and Ada M. (Hodgman) Cobb, and grandson of Nathan F. and Patty (Stanley) Cobb. He was educated in the schools of the town and at Monmouth Academy. He began business in 1865 as clerk for L. P. Moody, and in 1878 bought the busi ness from him. He deals in hardware, stoves, builders' and farmers' supplies and crockery. He is now serving his second year as select man. He is chairman of democratic town committee and since 1888 has been a member of the county committee. His wife, S. Lizzie, is a daughter of Charles E. Smith, of Lowell, Mass. Willis Cobb, born in 1848, is one of four children of Lewis and Jerusha (Snell) Cobb, and grandson of Nathan F. Cobb. He is a farmer and dairyman on the place where his father and grandfather lived. He married Susie A., daughter of Sewall B. Page, and their children are: Nathan L. and Edna L. Charles AV. Dillingham, son of Charles K. and Mary (Goodwin) Dillingham, and grandson of John Dillingham, was born in Turner, Me., in 1857. Charles K. had three children: Charles W., Frank E. and Walter S. Originally a shoemaker, he was also a farmer and under taker. Charles W. Dillingham came to Winthrop in 1877, since which time he has been the only undertaker in town, and for the past thirteen years superintendent of Maple Cemetery. In 1879 he married Effie J. Place. Their children have been: Fred, who died young, and Rena M. Henry V. Dudley, born in 1836 in AA^inthrop, is a son of Captain Henry M. and Mary (Whittier) Dudley, and grandson of Benjamin Dudley, who came from Raymond, N. H., to Mt. Vernon. Captain Henry M. came to Winthrop in 1834, and was a blacksmith and veter inary surgeon. Henry V. learned both branches of the business with his father, and since about 1876 he has carried on a blacksmith busi ness and done veterinary work here. His present shop was the first Friends meeting house built in Winthrop. Mr. Dudley married Mary J. Smith, of Prince Edward's Island. They have one child, Fannie M. They lost two— Charles S. and Lena J. n xy erjAs&p^ PHI NT, BIERSTADT. TOWN OF WINTHROP. 857 John Gower. — In 1842 William Gower, a native of Franklin county, Me, married Hester A. Chandler, of Winthrop, and two years later took up his residence in this town. His farm, still in the pos session of the family, is on the western shore of Lake Maranacook, two miles north of Winthrop village. Here were born his five chil dren: Ellen (Mrs. John Doughty), December 30, 1843; John, August 28, 1845; George, May, 1855, who died in infancy; Albert S., May 2, 1859, and Edwin F., March 28, 1863. John, the subject of this sketch, passed his boyhood working on his father's farm, and gleaning in the intervals from labor such learning as could be acquired in the district school of his native town, and later in Towle Academy. When he had reached the age of nineteen he began the real battle of life by teaching for five years in the dis trict schools, in high schools out of town, and, for a short time, in Towle Academy. In 1869 he embarked in the subscription book business, in which he was destined to achieve an exceptional and substantial success. Beginning as a canvasser for A. J. Johnson, of New York, in about two years' time he had acquired such a thorough comprehension of the scope of the business that he himself began to employ agents, whom he sent out over the country, and during the following ten years he was connected with several publishing houses as their general agent in New England and New York state, handling many thousands of volumes of Johnson's, Appleton's, and the People's encyclopedias. In the meantime he had married, in November, 1877, Mary M., daugh ter of the late Dr. A. F. Stanley, of Winthrop, a sketch of whose career is contained in Chapter XV. Shortly after his marriage Mr. Gower settled upon the Benjamin Stevens place, on the Readfield road, and here, since that time, he has actively carried on the busi ness of farming — a pleasant diversion from the cares of his large book publishing business. On this farm were born his two children: Annie B. Gower, December 21, 1879, and Stanley M. Gower, June 25, 1882. For the last eleven years Mr. Gower has been connected with the C. A. Nichols Company, publishers, of the city of Springfield, Mass., handling their regular subscription books in New England, the Mid dle States, Canada and the West. His youngest brother, Edwin F., is his partner in the western business, with headquarters at Ann Arbor, Mich. Mr. Gower was appointed a trial justice by Governor Marble No vember 22, 1888, and in 1890 was elected school supervisor of Win throp for the term of three years. He held aloof from active politics, however, until the summer of 1892, when he was urged by his friends to accept a place on the republican ticket as candidate for representa tive, and was elected to the legislature of 1893-4 for the towns of 858 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Winthrop, Belgrade and Rome. In the promotion of the temporal and spiritual welfare of the community in which he lives Mr. Gower is an earnest and unflagging worker. He has always been associated with the temperance work in Winthrop, and he is a prominent mem ber of the Methodist church, of which for years he has been class leader, steward and trustee. He has also been superintendent of the Methodist Sunday school, and in many ways has aided largely in the advancement of the church society. Mr. Gower is a Mason and member of Trinity Commandery, of Augusta. Silas T. Floyd, born in New Sharon in 1820, is the only survivor, of a family of four children of Samuel and Annie (Thayer) Floyd, and grandson of Nathaniel Floyd. His mother was a lineal descendant in the seventh generation, from John Alden, the Pilgrim. Mr. Floyd came to Winthrop in 1821, with his parents, who settled near where he now lives. He has been a farmer, excepting fifteen years that he was employed in oilcloth shops. He was two years selectman and one year representative. He married Margaret, daughter of Enos Chand ler, who was in the war of 1812 and was confined eighteen months in Dartmore Prison, England. Their children have been: Ada M. (Mrs. Prof. C. E. Smith), Enos F. and Albion C, who died at the age of seven. Martin A. Foster, born in 1834, is the youngest of eight children of Oliver and Lydia (Perkins) Foster, grandson of Stuart, whose father, Timothy Foster, came from Dedham, Mass., to what is now Winthrop in 1764, and the following spring brought his family. The farm where he settled is now owned by Daniel C. Robbins. Mr. Foster is a farmer on the place where his maternal grandfather, Ben jamin Perkins, settled when he came from Dartmouth, Mass., to AA7in- throp in 1800. He married Rosilla, daughter of Ebenezer Morrow. Their children are: Hattie L., who married Charles Kilbreth; Cora M., who married Edgar Parkman ; Edwin M., John A. and Lena E. Eugene S. French, born in Manchester in 1849, is a son of George W., and grandson of Joseph French. He worked seven years at the oilcloth business, and since then has been clerk in grocery and meat stores. He was elected town clerk in 1891 and 1892. He married M. Carrie, daughter of Charles F. Dunn, of Litchfield. They have one daughter, Ada M. Alfred Friend, son of Benjamin Friend, was a farmer in ^Etna, Me., where he died in 1849. He married Betsey, daughter of Amos, and granddaughter of William Tucker. They had seven children, TOWN OF WINTHROP. 8591 three of whom are living: John T., Samuel B. and Amos T. Those that died were: Sarah A., Mary Elizabeth, Warren A. and Daniel W. Mrs. Friend came to Winthrop in 1854, and bought the farm where she now lives with her son, Samuel B. Nathan D. Hamblen, the youngest and only survivor of four chil dren of George and Sarah J. (Elder) Hamblen, and grandson of John Hamblen, was born in 1853, at Windham, Me. Mr. Hamblen is a farmer at Winthrop Centre, where he has lived since 1855. He mar ried Florence I. Nelson, born in Winthrop, Me., in 1854. She is a daughter of Joseph R. Nelson, and granddaughter of Isaac Nelson, who came to Winthitop from Byfield, Mass., and in 1812 married Isabel Rice. Mrs. Hamblen's mother is Abbie H., daughter of David Hill. They have two children: Edna A. and George N. L. P. Hersey, son of Thomas Hersey, was born at Auburn, Me., in 1838. In 1857 he went to Boston and was engaged in shoe manufac turing as an employe and owner for several years, then came to Au gusta and started a shoe store. He is now an equal partner with his son, Fred L., in two leading shoe stores in Augusta, having retired from the active management of the business. He now resides at his country residence on the shores of Cobbosseecontee lake,- and devotes most of his time to the management of one of the largest farms in Kennebec county. He owns what is known as the Fuller farm, In dian point, the three islands in Cobbosseecontee lake, and all the land- formerly owned by I. A. Carr, from Twelfth brook to Richards pond. His first wife, Nancy Harlow, died leaving two sons: Henry H. and Fred L. His present wife was Evelyn P. Wellman. She is a niece of Hon. William P. Whitehouse, justice of the supreme court of Maine. Fred L. Hewins, born in 1850, is one of nine children of John and Roxanna (Rockwood) Hewins, and grandson of Ebenezer and Zilphia (Cummings) Hewins. He spent five years in California in a saw mill,. from 1873 to 1876 was in a saw mill in Manchester, and since 1878 has been a farmer in Winthrop, having bought a part of the Elias Whit ing farm. The house in which he lives was built by David T. Whit ing in 1855. Mr. Hewins married Malista J., daughter of Tabor Lyon. Their children are: Georgia A., Ella M. and Violet E. Oakes Howard is a son of Nathan and Lydia (Copeland) Howard,. who removed from West Bridgewater, Mass., to Winthrop, in 1802, and settled on a farm on the Monmouth road. Here Oakes was born, December 21, 1803, and here he still resides, a remarkable example of hale and vigorous old age. Nathan Howard was by trade a house painter, and at the early age of fifteen Oakes undertook the manage ment of the farm. Success attended the boy's efforts and when, on reaching his majority, he began working the farm on his own account,. ;860 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. he easily maintained a place in .the front rank of the agriculturists of his native town. In December, 1828, he married Hannah A., daughter of Nathan F. Cobb. Of their six children, four are living: Henry C, John R. and Emily S. (Mrs. Leroy Bishop), who reside in Minnesota; and George, who is engaged in farming near the homestead in Winthrop. Mr. Howard's first wife died in 1849, and in 1852 he married his present companion, Mrs. Betsey T. Hahn, a daughter of Joseph Tinkham, formerly a merchant at Winthrop. Mr. Howard has held a number of town offices at various periods of his long career. For two years in the " forties " he was constable and collector, eleven times he was elected selectman, and for eighteen years he held the commission of justice of the peace. In politics he was at first with the federalists, but since the close of the rebellion he has voted with the republican party. He took an active part in the formation of the Winthrop Agricultural Society, about 1825. This society, however, was soon merged in the Kennebec County Agricult ural Society, located first at Winthrop and later at Readfield, of which Mr. Howard was elected president about 1835, and held the office for a number of years. The annual fairs held by this association served as an incentive to Mr. Howard's natural love for pomology, and about 1849 he began raising apples for market in a thoroughly scientific manner. He paid especial attention to the cultivation of the " Bald win " and the " Roxbury Russet," for he found that they kept longer and sold better than any other variety. His fruit growing interests have never been extensive, but probably no orchardist in Maine has realized as large profits per acre as Mr. Howard through the series of years in which he has been engaged. Fred A. Jackson, born in 1855, youngest son of Samuel Jackson, is a farmer and also runs a threshing machine and cider mill. He mar ried Laura, daughter of Albert C. Carr, and their children are: Elvin M., Albert G., F. Irving and Ruby Julia. Virgil C. Jackson, eldest of seven children of Samuel, and a grand son of Caleb Jackson, was born in AVinthrop in 1846. Caleb Jackson came to Winthrop from Bridgewater in 1820. Virgil C. was fourteen years in a boot and shoe factory, and since 1881 has carried on the meat business at East Winthrop, as did his father prior to his death in 1890. He married Alice J., daughter of Richard R. Smith, of Hallo well. Their children are: Archie A., Thomas C, Mary J., Asa C, Robert V., Philip R., and one daughter that died — Edna. Levi Jones.— The early settlers of Kennebec county made work the first article of their creed, and they taught their children to put their faith in strict honesty and hard work. Many of these sons are still alive, and their characteristics are worthy of imitation by the younger men who are longing for success. Sturdy, resolute, self-centered, up- 1>* PRINT, t. BIER8TADT, N. V. TOWN OF WINTHROP. 861 right, and possessed of great capacity for work, they have made wise use of the native faculties of their minds, even if they could not boast of the benefits of a modern education. Levi Jones is a good example of this class of men, and it is be lieved that his active life and its influence on other men give him a place in the history of this town and county. His ancestors were among the pioneer settlers of the state. Thomas Jones and Thankful, his wife, seem to have come from Wales to Hanover, Plymouth county, Mass., about the year 1690. They are th'e first of the name of whom we have any knowledge in Maine, and it is not known in what year they moved into the state. They were active Friends in Falmouth monthly meeting. Their particular meeting was held at Harpswell. Their son, Lemuel, was born in 1730, and was an esteemed minister of the Society of Friends. He married Wait Estes, the 7th of March, 1751. Of their twelve children, Edward was the sixth and was born the 7th of April, 1762. He married Mary Tuttle. Their second child, Reuben, was born near the line between Brunswick and Durham in 1787. He married Lavina, daughter of Abiather and La- vina Richmond, of Greene, November 29, 1810, and settled in Win throp, on a part of the farm now occupied by Daniel Robbins. They lived there a short time and then moved to Temple, Franklin county (then a part of Kennebec county). There Levi Jones, their fourth child and the subject of this sketch, was born September 8, 1816. Reuben Jones was a tanner and shoemaker. He was a prominent member of the Society of Friends. He soon moved to Wilton and afterward to Leeds, and was acknowledged a minister by the meeting in that place. In later life he moved again to Winthrop, where he lived until 1868. Levi Jones lived with and worked for his father until he was twenty-one years of age. A few weeks each year in the common dis trict school was all the opportunity he had for an education. On at taining his majority he began life for himself, working as a farm laborer. As he left home for this purpose, with only a very small bundle of clothes, his father took him as far as Dudley's Corner and there left him, saying: " Thee has done well for me and I hope thee will do well for thyself." In 1840 he married Cynthia, daughter of Noah and Abigail Farr, of West Gardiner (then Gardiner), and settled in Winthrop, where he has lived nearly all the time since. His work as a farmer lasted only a few years. In the autumn of 1843 he began work in the oilcloth factory of Moses Bailey, and re mained there until 1847, when he went to Cape Cod to act as foreman in an oilcloth factory started there under the control of Jacob Vining. After a few months he returned to AVinthrop to accept the position of foreman of the Winthrop factory, which position he held until. :862 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. 1859. In 1860 he, with his brother, Reuben T. Jones, contracted to manufacture all the oilcloth produced in the factory of Charles M. Bailey at Winthrop village, receiving the raw material from the pro prietor and delivering the finished article at so much per yard. Great success attended this arrangement, and through untiring industry and strict economy he accumulated a property which placed him - among the wealthy men of the town. It continued until 1869. Although he had gained a competency, he was not content to re tire from active business, but in 1870 purchased the Winthrop grist mill and engaged in the grain business, continuing therein until 1883, when he sold the property to the Winthrop Mills Company. In 1886 his eldest son became of age and, to give him a start in life, he pur- ¦ chased the grocery business of Newland Bishop, at Winthrop village, in which business he has ever since been engaged with marked suc cess. The firm name is now Levi Jones & Son. His first wife died in 1863, leaving him no children. He was after ward married to Mary, daughter of Joseph and Hannah Winslow, of Winthrop. He has four sons and one daughter by his second wife, all living at the present time. He has always been a consistent member of the Society of Friends, taking a prominent part in the management of the affairs of the church. He was also an influential member of the Young Men's Christian Association during its existence in Winthrop, being its president for six years, and spent much of his time in carrying on the work of the association. He has been active in the business affairs of the town, and was for some years chairman of the board of selectmen and assessors. In politics he was originally a whig, having cast his first presidential vote for Harrison and Tyler. Upon the formation of the republican party he entered its ranks and has steadily continued therein, holding a leading position, as his advice and counsel were constantly sought. For over twenty-five years he has been a director of the National Bank of Winthrop, and the fact that he has been chosen every year a member of the board appointed to examine its books, shows the esti mate which is placed by those who know him upon his honesty and exactness. He was president of the Winthrop Savings Bank during all the years of its existence, and wisely managed the closing out business after the great robbery. Levi Jones has been a generous man, giving liberally to advance worthy causes and for the improvement of society, but in a quiet way with no desire for public applause. In his mature age he is still an active man. He has put energy into everything he has undertaken and has always mastered the business in which he was for the time engaged, not only showing ability for general management but un derstandmg the minute details. His whole career is marked 'by faith 4*9W ' pr^S^ TOWN OF WINTHROP. 863 fulness, energy, uprightness and a just respect for his own opinion, which has won the respect of those who have known him and dealt with him. Success has not been thrust upon him, but he has worked carefully and faithfully and earned it and gained it. Many who have known him have found his advice and counsel wise and profitable, so that he has made himself a successful man and a useful citizen. William H. Keith, born in Auburn, Me., in 1832, is a son of Wil liam and Beersheba Ann (Prock) Keith. He began shoe cutting when twenty years old and after four years began manufacturing shoes and continued until 1874, when his health failed and two years later he came to AA^inthrop and bought the Major Elijah Wood farm of 170 acres, where he has since lived. He was one year selectman and four years a member of the school board. While residing at Auburn he served as councilman and alderman. He married Serena H. Walker, and their children are: Florence Adell (Mrs. Ernest Hayford), Walter E. L., and one infant son that died. Horace Keyes, born at South Berwick, Me, in 1820, was a son of Samuel and Pheba (Shorey) Keyes and grandson of John Keyes. He was engaged in railroad work in Massachusetts from 1836 until 1872, when he came to Winthrop and has since been a farmer. His first wife, M. Ann Dunton, died leaving two children: Henry C. and Emma L. His second marriage, with Martha M., daughter of John Jones, was blessed with two children: H. Arthur and Alice E. Amasa D. King is the fifth of a family of eight, of Amasa and Me hitable (Jacobs) King, and grandson of Samuel and Susanna (Brainard) King. He is a farmer on the place where his father and grandfather lived. He married Elizabeth Orcutt, who died leaving two children: Emma C. (Mrs. George Whiting) and Luella W. (Mrs. Lafayette Chandler). His present wife was Sarah R., daughter of Ephraim Sturtevant. Their only child is Harry E. Mr. King's mother, born in 1798, died in 1892. Benjamin F. King, born in 1821, is one of ten children of Ben jamin and Olive (Rice) King, and grandson of Samuel and Susanna (Brainard) King. He is a house joiner and farmer, having a place of twenty acres, which was a part of the farm of his father. His wife, who died in 1865, was Ann C, daughter of Noah Wing, of Wayne. Their only child, Olive, now Mrs. Henry P. Joy, lives with her father. Nelson N. Knight, born at North Wayne in 1825, is a son of Fran cis and^Martha J. (Norcross) Knight, and grandson of Amos Knight, who came from Falmouth, Me, to North AVayne prior to 1800. He was fourteen years in different places building and operating oil and candle factories, and was the first man to introduce the distillation process for the manufacture of candles, in Ohio. In 1861 he came to Winthrop and bought the place where he has since been a farmer. He married Lucy A., daughter of Jesse Bishop. Their children are: Alice M., 864 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Jessie C. (Mrs. W. E. Moody), Lucy H. (Mrs. G. A. Thomas), and Nel lie M. They lost two— George N. and Martha J. Seaward G. Lee, born in 1817 at Beverly, Mass., is a son of Seaward Lee. He learned the machinist trade, beginning at the age of seven teen, and in 1841 came to Winthrop as superintendent of the cotton mill, and after a time bought an interest in the business and continued as superintendent of machinery until 1849, when he went to Califor nia, where he spent four and a half years mining, then returned to Winthrop, where he has since lived. He married first, Eliza A. Water- house. His present wife was Mrs. Lucy C. Ramsdell, a daughter of Stephen W. Mitchell. Lewis K. Litchfield, son of Jacob and Mary Ann (Webb) Litchfield,. was born in 1831, at Lisbon, Me. He served in the late war — first in Company B, 1st New Hampshire, from April 29, 1861, for three months; then one year in the 5th New Hampshire Band. In Novem ber, 1863, he reenlisted in Company I, 2d Maine Cavalry, and served until the war closed. He was for five years assistant inspector of Commander's staff, G. A. R., Department of Maine, and has been five years secretary of the Kennebec County Grange, P of H. He mar ried Sarah B., daughter of Sewall and Polly Page, died December 4, 1891. Their children are: Charles J., Ida M. and Mary I., who died. Charles H. Longfellow, born in 1834, is the only son of Greene A., grandson of David, and great-grandson of Stephen Longfellow. He was employed in oilcloth making until 1870, when he bought the farm where he has since lived. He served in the late war from March, 1864, until the close, in the 1st Maine Battery. He married Emma E., daughter of Joseph S. Smith, of Hallowell. Their children are: Car rie M. (Mrs. Herbert Healey), C. Everett, Sarah P. (Mrs. Fred E. AVil liams) and two that died — Lizzie P. and Alton S, George Adams Longfellow. — The history of the Longfellow- family in this country dates back more than two centuries. William Longfellow, the first of the name here, was born in the county of Hampshire, England, in 1651, came to this country in 1663, and set tled in Newbury, Mass., as a merchant. In 1690 he was ensign of a company that embarked in the expedition of Sir William Phipps against Quebec and perished by shipwreck off the island of Anticosti, in October of that year. His son, Stephen, was the first of six genera tions of Stephen Longfellows. Stephen Longfellow, 4th, was the father of the great poet, Henry W. Longfellow. Stephen Longfel low, 2d, had a brother, William, who was the great-grandfather of George A., the subject of this sketch. David Longfellow, the father of George A., came from Newbury, Mass., in 1812, and settled on the farm in Winthrop where he ever after resided until his death. On this farm was born George A., May 6, 1813, and here he has always lived. His mother's name was Su- l/ / C<_,C~ I) TOWN OF WINTPIROP. 865 sanna Adams, a descendant of Robert Adams, tailor, from Devonshire, England, who came to Salem, Mass., in 1638, and to Newbury, Mass., in 1640, a member of the famous Adams family of Massachusetts. There were few opportunities afforded the farmers' boys in Mr. Long fellow's boyhood days to acquire an education, compared with the present time. Nevertheless, by attending the district school, a mile or more from his home, in the winter season, and later Monmouth Academy, he fitted himself for a teacher and taught very successfully for several years. He was engaged for several years selling oilcloths, when this great industry was yet in its infancy in Winthrop. For this purpose he traveled extensively throughout the United States. In November, 1841, he was united in marriage with Eveline Foster, of Phillips, Me., a woman of great worth and of most beauti ful traits of character, the daughter of Isaac Foster, Esq.; and for more than fifty years now they have walked hand in hand the path way of life. The prominent traits in his life and character have been his great attachment to his family and home, his rugged honesty, sterling integrity and great industry. His specialty in farming has been orcharding, in which he has been very successful. " Longfellow Russets " are noted throughout New England, being much sought after by dealers and always commanding highest prices. He has demonstrated that farming pays and has acquired a competence. Mr. Longfellow has always been honored and respected by every body acquainted with him, as few men are honored and respected. Of a modest, retiring disposition, he has never sought political honors, and could rarely be prevailed upon to accept them; always a republi can since the formation of that party, yet conservative and fair to those opposed to his political faith. He has been a member of the legislature and eleven consectutive years one of the selectmen and as sessors of his native town. His proudest epitaph will be: " An honest man." In his family and domestic relations Mr. Longfellow has been peculiarly happy and fortunate. Five children have been born to him, of whom four are living: Henry W., a successful merchant in Boston; Walter B., a thrifty farmer residing in Farmingdale; Nellie M., wife of L. T. Carleton, the present county attorney of Kennebec county; and Alice H., Mrs. George N. Waugh, who with her husband lives on the old Longfellow homestead. Thus we see him in his declining years, in his typical New England home, surrounded by his children and grandchildren, with the love and respect of all, looking back over a long life, full of good works, and calmly welcoming the lengthening shadows. Alexander E. Mank, born in 1822, is the ninth child of a family of eleven, of Volentine and Mary (Surgus) Mank, and grandson of Peter 55 866 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Mank, who came from Germany to Waldoboro, Me., and died there at the ripe age of 100 years. His wife, Polly, died at the age of 102 years. Mr. Mank was a cooper by trade; he came to Winthrop in 1846 and bought a farm of Levi Jones, where he has since been en gaged in agriculture, with the exception of seven years, during which he worked in oilcloth shops. His first wife, Clarissa J. Newbert, died leaving two daughters: Lenora (Mrs. R. M. Dexter) and Nellie M. (Mrs. Josiah Snell); they lost one daughter, Harriet. His second wife, Mrs. Abbie Richards, was a daughter of Luke and Rebecca (Melendy) Chandler, and granddaughter of Ebenezer Chandler.^ Their children are: Charles R. and an adopted daughter, Katie F. Richards. John F. Martin, born in Waldoboro, Me, in 1825, is a son of Gabrial Martin, who was a soldier in Napoleon's army. Gabrial Martin was taken prisoner by the English and was given the choice of remaining a prisoner or joining the English army. He chose the latter, but de serted at the first opportunity, and finally settled in Waldoboro, Me. His wife was Catherine Kizer, who was born in Germany. John F. Martin came to Winthrop in 1833, with his father, and settled on the Benjamin Fairbanks farm. The house where he now lives was built in 1777. He married Kate Hammond and they have one son, Harold E., who married Mae. Morrill, of Readfield, and is a farmer near his father. John Morrill, born in 1817, is the youngest and only survivor of eight children of Samuel and Dolly (Blake) Morrill, and grandson of Samuel Morrill, of Epping, N. H. He was a farmer until 1874, since which time he has lived in his present home — the Dr. Prescott Water Cure. He married Saphronia Bolles, who died leaving one daughter, Emily A. (Mrs. James Carson). His present wife, Melvina, is a daughter of Nathan Stevens. They have one daughter, Luretta A. (Mrs. W. F. Fairbanks). Charles E. Moore, who worked in the meat business in Waterville for some time, came to Winthrop in September, 1889, where he is now a farmer. He married for his second wife, Lizzie F., daughter of Franklin M. and Prudentia F. (Mills) Woodward, and granddaughter of Amos and Nancy Woodward. They have one son, Stanley A. Mr. Moore has two children by his first marriage: Charles Albert and Nancy S. J. Henry Moore, born in 1847, is a son of Joseph H. and Mary (Blaisdell) Moore, grandson of George, and great-grandson of George, whose father, William Moore, came from England to Maine. Mr. Moore's father came to Winthrop in 1851, and bought the Levi Fair banks farm of one hundred acres, now called Elmwood farm. Mr. Moore is a farmer and for the last twenty years has carried on a pri vate dairy for butter purposes. He was several years master of the Winthrop Grange, P. of H., and in January, 1891, was chosen master TOWN OF WINTHROP. 867 of the County Grange. He was president of the Kennebec County Agricultural Society two years. He first married Etta, daughter of Thomas L. Stanton. She died leaving two children: Annie E. and Lottie L. His present wife is Stella, daughter of Lemuel Sumner. They have two children: Mary O. and Elsie I. E. R. Packard, the only child of Simeon and Ruth (Leonard) Pack ard, and grandson of Benjamin and Nancy (Richards) Packard, was born in 1857, and as early as 1865 he began to pay some attention to amateur printing, and from that time until 1880 he devoted some time to the craft. In November of that year he issued the first news paper at East Winthrop, and the story of the Banner is told"in Chap ter X. Henry Packard. — The history of the Packard family in East AA7inthrop dates back to 1804, when Ebenezer Packard came from Bridgewater, Mass., and selected a piece of forest which he trans formed into a home for himself aud his children. All the measure ments of his character were fully up to the New England standard gauge of that day. Besides being a farmer he was a worker in iron, and turned the rainy days and long winter months to account in his shop, pounding out hand made nails — the only kind then known. These were sold to his neighbors and in many an old building they still do duty. No branch of his industries suffered for want of timely attention. He made the most of all his advantages, and no neighbors of his got larger returns from their soil. His judgment was quietly sought and his advice taken in many a secular matter. In religious matters he was also earnest and active, serving for many years as deacon of the Baptist church. His father and his grandfather each bore the name Ebenezer Pack ard, and were among the solid families of old Bridgewater. The former, who was born there in 1749, married Content Holmes. Their eleven children were: Meletiah, Philip, Mary, Sarah, Ebenezer, Syl vester, Rhoda, Ansel, Charles, Nancy and Content. Of these Ebenezer was born November 17, 1783, and died in Winthrop, December 20, 1879. He married Zeruah Phinney in 1806, and their fourteen chil dren were: Charles (died young), Charles, Ann, Ebenezer, Nathan T., Sullivan, Emeline, Mary H., Henry F. (died young), Henry, Sarah A., Jonathan and Albert (twins), and Albert H. Henry, the tenth of these children, born in AA^inthrop, November 19, 1822, received his pro rata share of the attentions and advantages that^the parents of such a family were able to bestow. As he grew from boyhood to manhood he attended the common school, the Sun day school and the singing school. He became a thorough farmer, imbibing his father's tastes, learning his methods, and in time taking his place. Together they planted orchards, built houses and barns, and made lasting improvements. He found pleasure and profit in 868 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. growing good stock, making a specialty of raising superior horses, in which line he was widely known. As an example of his thrift, it may be stated that he bought a farm in 1863, which paid for itself in three years. Few sons have the life-long advantage of a father's companion ship and counsel, as did Henry, and fewer still have valued it as high ly, or profited from it as much. From the same paternal source, by precept and example, he learned the habit of industry, the way of rectitude, and the principles of right living. That such lives should be successful is logical and natural. AVhen industry and integrity fail, gravitation and the sunlight may well be doubted. Henry Pack ard went even beyond his father, in untiring application to what he had to do. The greatest criticism of those who knew him best, was that he made himself an incessant slave to hard work, but fortunately he had one hobby, one avenue of relaxation. He loved music, was a good singer, and for many winters taught old-fashioned singing school. His first wife, Caroline F. Waugh, and their child, Lizzie C, are deceased. In 1858 he married Mrs. Betsey (Snell) Howard, to whom was born March 30, 1861, their only child, Sumner Ellsworth. Henry Packard was the victim of a sunstroke, from the effects of which he died December 30, 1876. The old homestead, fraught with so many memories of the past, remains in the posession of his only son. Prob ably the material inheritance is of less ultimate importance than the ancestors' intellectual and moral traits, which seem to have been trans mitted, and are being developed in the present generations. Sumner E. Packard, in November, 1883, married Susie M. Foster, a daughter of Charles O. Foster, and a descendant of Timothy Foster, the first settler of Winthrop. Their only child, Harry E., was born October 24, 1884. Horatio M. Packard, farmer, born in 1840, is the eldest and only survivor of four children of Horatio R. and Eliza R. (Davenport) Packard, and grandson of Alden and Persis (Howard) Packard. He was a tanner and boot and shoe manufacturer in early life. He mar ried Mary E., daughter of Silas W. Parlin. Their children are: Edgar L. (living), and Oscar M. (deceased). Sewall B. Page, one of eleven children of Sewall and Polly (White) Page, and grandson of Simon Page, who with his brother, Robert, came to Winthrop from Kensington, N. H., was born in 1813, and is a farmer. He married Emily D., daughter of Joseph and Jane (Mace) Morrill. Their children are: Charles H., Emma J. (Mrs. C. F. Davis), and Susie A. (Mrs. Willis Cobb). F. Herbert Parlin, born in 1851, is one of four children of Horace and Emeline (Packard) Parlin, and grandson of Silas Parlin. He re ceived his education in the schools of Winthrop, the Waterville Classi cal Institute, in 1873 graduated from Colby, and in 1880 graduated &nA** TOWN OF WINTHROP. 869 from Harvard Law School. He married Nellie M., daughter of Wil liam Nye, of Hallowell. Their children are: Gertrude L. and Horace A. Henry Penniman, born May 6, 1834, at Quincy, Mass., is a son of Stephen, and grandson of Stephen Penniman. He came to Augusta in May, 1851, and in August of the same year came to Winthrop. After working four years at shoemaking, he kept a saloon five years. In April, 1861, he enlisted in Company K 3d Maine, as orderly ser geant, was promoted to second lieutenant, and in the fall of 1862 to first lieutenant. He was wounded at Fair Oaks and Gettysburg, and was discharged November 4, 1863. He has been a merchant and clothing manufacturer in Winthrop since 1863. He was three years selectman and was postmaster from January 1, 1887, until January 1, 1891. He married Mary W., daughter of Andrew P. Batchelder. Their children are: Edgar H., Mabel (Mrs. R. M. Keene), Maggie L. (Mrs. John Foster), and two that died — Mary and an infant son. Alanson Perry was born in Wayne in 1825, and is a farmer. In 1854 he bought a farm of sixty acres, and since that time has bought other lots until he now owns 260 acres. His first marriage was with Rhoda, daughter of John Perry. She died leaving three children: George E., John H. and Mary O., who died, His second wife, Ann, daughter of Jabez Plummer, died leaving one son, Albion S. His present wife was Mrs. Julia A. Gilman, daughter of Stephen Gordon. William H. Pettingill, son of Harvey Pettingill, was born in 1832. He worked at oilcloth making until August 2, 1862, when he enlisted in Company K, 3d Maine, but was soon transferred to Company C, and in 1864 was transferred to Company F, 17th Maine, serving until June, 1865. Since the war he has been a shoemaker. Nathaniel R. Pike, born in 1815 in Fayette, is a son of Benjamin, who came from Amherst, N. H., to Fayette in 1788, with his father, Zachariah Pike. Mr. Pike was a moulder by trade from the age of twenty-one until 1870, since which he has been a farmer in Winthrop. He married Hannah W. Foster and their children are: Charles E., a dentist; George A., who is a farmer with his father; and Helen F. (Mrs. P. H. Snell) who died. George A. married Esther Lawrence and their children are: Emma L., Elsie J., Charles A., Sarah AV., and one son that died, Walter. Charles E. married Sarah A. Lawrence, and has one child, George L. Noah Pinkham, one of ten children of Nicholas and Alice (Parker) Pinkham, was born in Litchfield in 1820. His grandfather, Nicholas Pinkham, lived in Durham, Me. Mr. Pinkham was a blacksmith in West Gardiner until 1866, when he came to Winthrop Centre, where he has been a blacksmith and farmer. He married Eunice B., daughter of AVilliam and Eunice (Briggs) Farr. Their children are: Allen W., Ada C, Herbert E. and P. Ella. 870 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Avery Pitts came to Winthrop soon after 1800 and built a black smith shop where the Congregational vestry stands, where he worked at his trade the balance of his life. His twin sons, John A. and Hiram A., became noted machinists. About 1832 Hiram A., patented an end less chain horse power, and in 1835 invented and caused to be made the first grain thresher and separator combined ever in existence. After a few separators had been made for the Pitts Brothers, John A. went to Buffalo in 1838 and Hiram A. went to Chicago in 1840. Prof. Frederic Weston Plummer, son of William and Eliza B. (Tenney) Plummer, grandson of Thomas J., and great-grandson of William Plummer, of Auburn. Me, was born March 7, 1867. After three years in the Edward Little High School at Auburn, he received the appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, to which he was admitted in 1886. He resigned on account of ill health in 1887 and entered Bates College — graduating in 1891. He became principal of the Winthrop High School the same year, and was married April 12, 1892, to Nellie E. Nowell, of Topsham, Me. Cyrus S. Robbins, born in 1828, was a son of Benjamin and Sybil (Foster) Robbins, and grandson of Asa Robbins. Mr. Robbins mar ried Mary L., daughter of Hiram and Louisa (Case) Rockwood. Their seven children are: Annie M. (Mrs. C. E. Wells), M. Alice, Emma F. (Mrs. Herbert Goddard), Mabel S., Olive L., C. Albert and Margaret S. Mr. Robbins was a farmer. He died in 1880, and since that time Mrs. Robbins has carried on the farm of 120 acres. She keeps a herd of Jersey cows, and devotes her attention to butter making. She has exhibited the Robbinsdale farm herd and butter at several agricul tural fairs and expositions, and has several times carried away the first premiums. Jacob B. Robbins is a son of Aquilla and Sarah (Bailey) Robbins, grandson of Daniel, and great-grandson of Asa Robbins, who came from Walpole, Mass., to Winthrop. Mr. Robbins married Philena B. Briggs and had three children: Daniel C, Charles E. and Elbridge A. Mr. Robbins bought the original Timothy Foster farm in 1847, where he and his eldest son, Daniel C, have been farmers. Daniel C. was born in 1840 and was educated in the schools of the town, at Kents Hill, Oak Grove Seminary, Vassalboro, and at Waterville. He has taught sixteen terms of school. He married Emma A., daughter of Sullivan Kilbreth, of Manchester, and has one daughter, H. Eu genia. Henry Robie is a son of Henry and Mary (Folsom) Robie, who came from Guilford, N. H., to Monmouth, where Henry, sen., died in 1874. Mr. Robie was a manufacturer until 1857, when he came to Winthrop and bought the farm where he has since lived. Pie married Olive A., daughter of James and Hannah (Stevens) Sanborn. Their two chil dren were: James H., who died, and Fred C, who married Nellie A. TOWN OF WINTHROP. 871 Townsend, of South Orange, N. J., and is a farmer with his father. He has devoted some attention to teaching and playing band music. He is a member of the board of selectmen. Hiram Rockwood, born in 1834, in Readfield, is the only son of Hiram, and grandson of John Rockwood, who died in Belgrade at the age of one hundred years. His maternal grandfather was Rev. Isaac Case. Mr. Rockwood came to Winthrop in 1869 and bought his pres ent home — a part of the old Fairbanks farm. He married Ellen F., daughter of Leonard Johnson, of Readfield, and their children are: Nellie F. and Willard H. Patrick Henry Snell, born in 1832, is the youngest of thirteen chil dren of John Elliott and Anna (Follett) Snell, and grandson of Elijah Snell. He was for twenty years a shoemaker, and has since been a farmer. He served three years in the late war from June, 1861, in Company K, 3d Maine. He was selectman three years. His first wife was Francena, daughter of Sands Bailey. His second wife was Helen F., daughter of Nathaniel R. Pike, who died leaving one son, John E. John E. Snow, born in 1858, is the youngest child and only son of John P and Elvira S. (Gott) Snow, grandson of Joseph and Rebecca (Paine) Snow, and great-grandson of Benjamin Snow. He became in terested in the Winthrop Banner in November, 1889. Prior to that he had been in a Boston printing house two years. Several years ago he bought a foot power press and did some job work in Winthrop, and later sold it to Mr. Packard, and the first four numbers of the Winthrop Banner were printed on it. John A. Stanley, only son of Albert F. and Mahala A. M. (Brans- comb) Stanley, and grandson of John Stanley, is the editor and pub lisher of the Winthrop Budget, as mentioned in Chapter X. His father was a graduate of Bowdoin Medical School, and after practicing twelve years in Dixfield, Me., came to Winthrop in 1843, where he died in 1867. Mr. Stanley has three sisters living: Juliet M. (Mrs. Dr. I. P. Warren), Mary M. (Mrs. John Gower) and Jane Elizabeth. Orrin E. Stanley is the son of Charles, grandson of Morrell, and great-grandson of Aden Stanley, a revolutionary soldier, who came from Massachusetts to Winthrop in 1795 and bought the farm on which have lived, and began the business which all the persons named have followed — that of wagon making. Aden had one daugh ter, Eunice, and two sons, Lemuel and Morrell. The latter, for his second wife, married Charlotte Gillman, and had children: Henry A., Charles, Milton and Polly A. Charles was born in 1826, married Kate Wing in 1856, and had children: Orrin E., born in 1857; Hattie A., Nellie D., Henry M. and Cora H. Orrin E. Stanley married Kate O'Neal, of Readfield, in 1890. Charles B. Stanton, farmer, born in 1848, is a son of Thomas L. and grandson of Aaron Stanton, jun., who was born in Coventry, 872 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. England, and there learned the business of tape and webbing maker. He was in the British army in the war of 1812 and deserted while in a New England port, and came to Hallowell, where he married Olive Moulton, and there began to make machinery from memory for the manufacture of tape and webbing. After a short time he came to North Monmouth, where he continued in the manufacture of tape and webbing until his death in 1837, when his only son succeeded him and continued the business until about 1875. Charles B. Stanton married Mittie A., daughter of Hiram and Julia (Dexter) Ladd, and granddaughter of Simeon Ladd. They have two children: Charles A. and Etta Blanche. Charles M. Thomas, born in 1845, is one of seven children of Lloyd and Elizabeth Thomas, and grandson of Captain Hushai Thomas, who came to AVinthrop from Middleboro, Mass. His maternal grandfather was Dr. Peleg Benson, who was for many years a physician of Win throp. Mr. Thomas is a farmer, as was his father. He married Abbie, daughter of Captain Amos Wheeler, and their children are: Charles E., William L., Ray W. and Martha E. Ferdinand Tinker came to Winthrop in 1868 and became a builder, contractor and lumber merchant, which he has followed for the past twenty years. Ferdinand Tinker, his father, was born in Ellsworth, Me., in 1801, and married Hannah H. Pineo, of Machias, Me. Of their thirteen children — six boys and seven girls — Ferdinand, the eldest, was born July 25, 1829, at St. Stephens, N. B. His first wife was El mira J. Scofield; they settled in Baring, Me., where he followed his trade as a millwright. Their four children were: Georgianna, Abbie, Charles and Fred V. His second wife was Elvira Snow, and in 1887 he married his third wife. Delphina Woodman, of Roxbury, Mass. John Jay Tinkham, son of Joseph and Bathiah (Waterman) Tink ham, and grandson of John Tinkham, was born in 1811. He was a farmer until 1881. His farm was one which his father bought in 1812, and where he lived until 1853, when he moved to the village, where he died in 1870. John Jay married Mary S., daughter of Eben Blake. Harrison Warner, born in 1816, in Jay, Me., is a son of Benjamin and Alice (Austin) Warner. He is a painter and farmer, and has lived in Winthrop since 1850. He married Julia Jackson, who died leaving five children, three of whom are now living: Ellen, John and Frank. He married in 1876, Mary A., daughter of Samuel G. and Arabella (Haines) Stanley. Her father was a physician, practicing in Strong, Farmington, Phillips and Weld. He died in 1875, having been a farmer the last few years of his life. He was a graduate of Brown University. Mrs. Warner had taught sixteen terms of school before her marriage. David Webster, born in Rome, Me, in 1826, is a son of David and Mary (Allen) Webster. He was a farmer until 1863, when he came TOWN OF WINTHROP. 873 to Winthrop, and since that time has been night watchman in the oil cloth works. He married Asenath, daughter of Thomas Tracy, and their children are: Thomas D., Almena A. and Grace M. Drewry N. White, farmer, son of James and Nancy (Kenney) White, came to Winthrop in 1869, from Dixfield, Me, where he was born in 1822. He married Sarah Wyman, who died leaving three children: Wallace R., Ella A. (Mrs. A. A. Small), and William N. His present wife was Nancy Bisbee. Charles F. AVhiting, born in 1827, was a son of Jonathan and Amelia (White) Whiting. He was a farmer until his death in 1878, and since that time his widow and sons have run the farm. He mar ried Sarah M., daughter of Francis and Hannah (Wadsworth) Fuller. Their children are: Etta A. (Mrs. M. B. Hewitt), Edwin A., G. Walter, and one that died, Charlie F. Henry Winslow, born in Falmouth, Me, in 1828, is one of a family of six, of Joseph and Hannah (Briggs) Winslow. Joseph came to Winthrop in 1841, where he was a farmer until his death in 1878. Mr. Winslow's business is that of block maker for the oilcloth works, and since 1857 he has run a shop and nearly all the time employs a num ber of hands at the work. His first marriage was with Mary D., daughter of Rev. Isaiah P. Rogers. His present wife was Mrs. Mary G. Maxfield, daughter of Albert Hussey. Samuel M. Witham, son of John and Catherine (Moody) Witham, was born at Bingham, Me., in 1835, and lived in various places in Maine until 1880, when he came to Winthrop where he is a farmer. He served in the late war from January, 1863, to July, 1865, in Com pany E, 1st Maine Cavalry. His first marriage was with Oria E. Prentiss, who died leaving one daughter, Mary E. His second mar riage was with Sarah M.. daughter of Joel and Lucy (Keene) White, and granddaughter of Joel White, who came from Dedham, Mass., to Winthrop in 1784, and settled near where Mr. Witham now lives. Mr. Witham's mother was a daughter of Samuel Moody, of Ossipee, N. H. Charles D. Wood, born in Bath, Me, in 1851, is a son of Captain James N. Wood. He came to Winthrop in 1875 and the following year began mercantile trade here, and has continued it since that time. He sold the grocery department in 1883, and has since done a grain business alone. He was agent for the American Express Com pany here from 1883 until January 1, 1891, and since that date he has been postmaster. He served two years as selectman, has been six years chairman of the republican town committee, and four years chairman of the republican county committee. He married Mary H. Bird, of Rockland, Me. They have six children. Elliott Wood, born July 21, 1844, is the only child of Lewis and Ann A. (Snell) Wood, and grandson of Elijah and Sarah (Clifford) 874 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Wood. Mr. Wood has been for a few years engaged in mercantile- trade He has been selectman nine years, six of which he has been chairman of the board. He was postmaster from March, 1881, until January, 1887; represented his district in the legislature of 1879; in 1887 and 1888 was a member of the governor's council, and in 1889- was postmaster in the United States Senate, which office he resigned after one year's service. In August, 1892, he was nominated for state senator. His wife is Rufina, daughter of Courier Brown. They have one daughter, Abbie E., and lost one son, Lewis Elliott. Fred M. Wood, born in 1863, is the only son of John C. and Julia (Hanscomb) Wood, and grandson of John, who with his father, An drew Wood, came from Middleboro, Mass., to Winthrop. Mr. Wood's father died in 1887, aged fifty-seven years, and since that time he has carried on the farm. He has four sisters: Florence, Alice, Dora and Mary. He married Nettie L., daughter of Nathan Kimball, and their children are: John C, Julia M. and Ruth M. John G. Yeaton, born in Belgrade iu 1846, is a son of John and Ruth B. (Gilman) Yeaton, and grandson of Jonathan Yeaton. He has been engaged in oilcloth making and various business enterprises, and in October, 1883, bought the meat business which he has since run in connection with other matters. He married Ruth A., daughter of Frank E. Brainard, and their only child, Edna M., died. CHAPTER XXXIII. TOWN OF MANCHESTER. Territory embraced. — Settlers in South. — Saw Mills. — Incorporation Act. — Change to present Name. — Settlers in Other Parts. — Surface. — Mills and Tanneries. — Post Office. — Present Village. — Lyon's Mill. — Cider Mills. — Granite Quarries. — Pleasure Resorts. — Civil History. — Schools. — Ecclesiasti cal. — Cemeteries. — Personal Paragraphs. THE territory embraced within the present town of Manchester, although more recently incorporated, was settled contempora neously with Winthrop, Readfield and other surrounding towns. Those who settled early followed the trails from the river, by blazed trees. Joseph Wingate settled opposite the Friends' meeting house, on the pond road. His brother, Frederick Wingate, settled below the meeting house, on the farm of the late R. W. Smart. Alvah Wads worth located where Joshua Brown lives, and opposite — where widow Mary C. Hawks lives — Daniel Haines first settled. Isaac Hawkes set tled where I. W. Hawkes lives; and next south, on the Loren Farr place, Payne AVingate settled. South of the last, Elijah Farr made his settlement, where his son's widow, Sylvia, now resides. Wingate Haines made his first clearing where Otis Foster is, and Joseph Patti son was the settler on the Proctor Sampson farm. The farm just below, rented by Thomas Douglass, was settled by William Hopkins. The farm of Willis H. Wing was cleared by Proctor Sampson, but Daniel Magoon had been permitted to make a clearing and reside there till a sale was made. Where Mark Osborne lives Jacob Sampson set tled, and next south, where E. R. Mayo lives, George Collins located. Where Christopher C. Bowman resides, Thomas Farr settled. Next south was the settlement of Ebenezer Bailey — where Thomas Sinclair lives. Benjamin Howard settled the farm now owned by his son, Benjamin, and where the outlet house stands was early occupied by James Pullen. Across the outlet, where Mrs. Meady lives, was the old settler Job Douglass; and next to his clearing, and opposite on the road, was the pioneer, Timothy Bailey, accompanied by his son, Isaac- A man named Sawyer settled next to Bailey, about where Mrs. Bush lives; and next south was Isaac Haskell — the first on the place. Op posite the last, where Fred Spear now owns and lives, Paul Collins was the first settler, occupying to the present town line of West Gardiner 876 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. The pond road, along which the foregoing settlers located, was a chosen part of the town. No mill could be built at the outlet, for Doc tor Gardiner, who owned the land, reserved all rights to the north bank of the outlet stream. It will be remembered that some of the original lots in Gardiner and Farmingdale were a mile wide, and ex tended westerly to Cobbosseecontee great pond. The Vaughn tract was one of these great lots, and the farm in Manchester now owned and occupied by Proctor Sampson was taken from the northwest cor ner of that tract. On the road leading to Gardiner, along the outlet, other settlers lo cated. The first was Braddock Hathaway, where the buildings were subsequently burned; opposite him was Asa Benson — a large land holder — on the site now occupied by his son's widow, Julia Benson. On the opposite side, Andrew Hutchinson settled where Charles Nick erson is. Israel Hutchinson settled opposite his brother — where Jo seph Spear lives. On the road leading to Hallowell over Meadow hill, and next to the farm of Willis H. Wing, is the Hopkins farm, settled by David Mogan; and where George Wadsworth owns, opposite the Hopkins farm, Samuel Dunn first made his clearing. Where David Douglass lives was settled by Wingate Haines, who sold out his betterment on the pond road and started again. Opposite the last, where the Wilder farm is, Henry Wilder early purchased of a man named Cogswell, who had made a clearing. Samuel Dunn sold his farm on the pond road, and settled where Leonard Dearborn lives, and where' Lindley Pinkham lives Noah Pinkham was the first settler. These settlers of the southern part of the present Manchester being but a few miles from the mills at Gardiner — which had become a con siderable place — were not compelled to undergo such hardships as be fell the earlier settlers in the more remote plantations. The only saw mill in the south part of the town was built in 1848 by Proctor Sampson, on the brook that runs through Willis H. Wing's farm. He ran it a few years, and sold to Sands Wing, who after a short time sold to Joseph Spear. He took it down and used it in the erection of a mill down the outlet out of the town. The town was erected August 12, 1850, from Augusta, Hallowell, Litchfield, Readfield and Winthrop. The text of the act as passed was: " Beginning on the north line of Augusta and on the west line of a gore at the end of the third mile from Kennebec river, thence south erly on the west line of said gore to land of Bethiah Knowles, thence easterly on the north line of Knowles' land to land of Sewell Longfel low, thence to the east line of said gore, thence southerly on the east line of said Longfellow's to land of William Goldthwait, easterly on the north line of said Goldthwait to the northeast corner of said Gold- thwait's land, thence southerly on the east line of said Goldthwait and TOWN OF MANCHESTER. 877 on the line of land owned by Timothy Goldthwait, jun., to the land of the late Salmon Rockwood, thence easterly on the south line of said Rockwood to said Rockwood 's northeast corner, thence southerly to the northwest corner of land owned by Peter Atherton in Hallowell, thence southerly to the southwest corner of a piece of land which Dr. Elias Weld conveyed to Winslow Hawkes. thence southwesterly until it strikes Jimmey's stream at the point where it intersects the north line of the great five-mile lot number twenty-two, as surveyed by Solomon Adams, thence along said stream to Jimmey's pond, thence down said pond to the outlet, thence following the outlet of said pond to Hutchinson's pond, thence S. 224;° W. to the south line of Hallowell, thence westerly on the south line of Hallowell until it strikes Gardi ner stream and across said stream to the south line of land owned by John Collins in Litchfield, thence westerly on the south line of said Collins' land and by that line extended until it strikes a point in Win throp pond due southwest of the S. E. corner of land owned by Fran cis Fuller, in Winthrop, thence running due northeast to said south east corner of said Fuller's land, thence northerly on the east line of said Fuller's land, thence by the east line of Capt. Shaw's land to Richards pond, thence across said pond to the west line of land owned by Samuel Richards on the north line of said pond, thence northerly on the west line of land owned by Oren Brainard, and also by the west line of land formerly owned by James Brainard to land owned by Elisha Case in Readfield, thence westerly on the south line of said Case to said Case's southwest corner, thence northerly on said Case's west line to the land of J. Whiting Winslow, thence northerly on the west line of said Winslow's land to said Winslow's northwest corner, thence easterly to land of the widow Carr, thence northerly on the west line-of said Carr and the west line of land owned by the widow Adams, William Taylor, Joseph Knowles, Eliab Lyon jun., Elisha Prescott, Stephen Hill and William Hill, to the north line of Read- field, thence easterly on the north line of Readfield to the southwest corner of Augusta, thence easterly on the north line of Augusta to the bounds first mentioned 'be and hereby is incorporated into a town by the name of Kennebec." The remainder of the act provided for the poor within the limits of the new town, and placed the town in the representative district with Readfield and Fayette. The territory included the post office known as Hallowell Cross Roads, and after the incorporation of the town as Kennebec, the mail matter frequently addressed to the town was so miscarried to Kenne- bunk at the south that the legislature was petitioned to change the name of the town from Kennebec to Manchester, which was done April 15, 1854, and in 1856 the post office was changed to the same name. The northern portion of the town was not as early settled as those portions along the pond road in the south, which had belonged to Hallowell. On the Augusta road, where Frank J. Hewins lives, Eben Hewins settled. On the Hallowell road, where George H. Kilbreth lives, Isaac Wadsworth settled. Near by, where Isaac Varney dwells, 878 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. was the first settlement of Samuel Stevens, and just beyond was the clearing of Colonel Francis Norris — now owned by Mr. Sanborn, and rented by Josiah Gray. On the Mt. Vernon road, on the farm now owned by Joseph Fifield, Nathaniel Lovering first se'.tled, and opened a tavern. John Day set tled on the Readfield road, where Helen Freeman resides; and next above, where Albert Daggett lives, John Morrill was the settler. Where Jacob Pope resides, George Waterhouse made his first clear ing. The ancestors of Charles Wing settled the place occupied by him. On the Winthrop road, where E. L. Eaton lives, William AVins- low settled; and opposite Eaton's, where Bradford Boynton resides, Samuel Merrill settled. The L. H. Hammond farm was settled by a man named Brainard. This territory was well settled during the first half of the present century, and many residents were compelled to go several miles to the surrounding towns to the town meetings. This fact and the objec tions of some to being included in the two adjoining cities, then being chartered, led to a separate municipality of the present form. It is ten miles long and three wide, the line between it and Winthrop be ing the center of Cobbosseecontee great pond. Jimmey pond and Hutchinson pond are between this town and Farmingdale, while Shed pond is wholly within the town, near the Readfield line. A broad valley at the head of Cobbosseecontee great pond stretches across the town, extending northerly nearly to the Belgrade and Sidney lines. The eastern edge of the town, along the Augusta, Hallowell and Farm ingdale lines, is hilly and broken. The western edge of the town, along the Readfield line, is high: while the southern border, along the West Gardiner line, is the lowest land of the town. No heavy water powers exist, consequently large mills have been the exception. A small saw mill was built in the Fifield neighbor hood, where Edward Bowman lives, and William Thomas operated the mill; he also put in a small tannery, which was more within the power of the stream. Samuel Cummings had a saw mill on the brook ©n the Frank Hewins farm. The old post office, established January 1, 1818, as Hallowell Cross Roads, was kept in the Grinnell tavern by the proprietor, Jesse Rob inson, who was appointed the postmaster. He was succeeded in April, 1830, by Samuel Quimby. The succeeding postmasters, with the year of their appointment, were: September, 1830, Thomas Phillips; Au gust, 1834, Lorain M. Judkins; 1838, Jabez Churchill; 1845. Erastus Shepard Loomis; February, 1853, Abraham I. Thing; June, 1853, Darius Lewis; 1854, Erastus S. Loomis; 1856, Joseph B. Haines; May 28, 1856, the name of the office was changed to Manchester and Wil liam A. Sampson was appointed postmaster; 1859, Alden Sampson; TOWN OF MANCHESTER. 879 1S64, Isaac N. Wadsworth; 1868, Elbridge M. Boynton; 1875, Jesse L. Wood; 1889, George H. Kilbreth; 1890, Augustus M. Bowman. About 1857 Alden Sampson built and opened a store (now Jesse L. Woods') and the office was removed there, where it has since been kept. This one post office has supplied the town. The old Robinson tavern was only one of three. Thomas Phillips opened a tavern nearly opposite the present store, but sold it when he rented the Robinson tavern. The present village, where the store and office is, was locally known as Hallowell Forks, before Manchester was incorporated. John Mulliken settled just east of where the only store stands. Fran cis Day was an old settler on the Readfield road, opposite the old hotel, now George C. Grinnell's residence. Samuel Weston came in 1805, settling where N. C. AVeston lives. Where the large two-story tene ment house is, oppsite George C. Grinnell's, Daniel Day settled in 1793. Many years ago Alton Pope started a carpet factory, which was sold to Alden Sampson. This was on the farm of E. L. Norcross. Joseph Ham carried on an old tannery with a shoe shop on the vil lage brook, near where Noah F. Weeks lives. No industry of any importance is now carried on in the village, which lies in the broad slope at the head of Cobbosseecontee great pond, and could at least be made an attractive summer resort. In April, 1884, Fred L. Hewins and Lovicount S. Lyon, as partners, erected a saw mill in the northeast part of the town. The power is furnished by a forty-five horse power engine, to run circular saw, planer and shingle machine. Lath, pickets, flooring and boxes are also manufactured. The mill is cutting about 300,000 feet of lumber as ¦custom work, and the owner is converting a half million feet of his own logs into lumber each year. In April, 1886, the firm of Hewins & Lyon was dissolved, and since that time the business has been owned and carried on by Mr. Lyon. There are several good cider mills, for the town has many large orchards. The cultivation of apple orchards has received especial at tention, and with substantial results. Another feature ofthe farming is the keeping of good stock. The granite quarries are an important industry of the town. The Central Granite Company, Joseph Arche, proprietor, is located in the east edge of the town, and near the Hallowell Granite Works, both of which are more particularly mentioned at page 184. At the head of the pond, and near the village, is the beautiful pine grove known as Hammond's Grove. In 1879 L. H. Hammond erected several cottages, allowed others to build, and built a cafe on the grounds. He kept boats for pleasure, and the lovely spot has grown into distinction as a healthful summer resort. In the spring of 1891 -Colonel Farrington and others leased the grove conditional to pur- 880 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. chasing, which should lead to the laying out and building up of a cottage city with a large hotel. Manchester, along the great pond, includes already some fine resorts, and bids fair to win a prominent place in the county as a retreat for health and recreation. Several neat cottages have been erected on the Cobbossee shores by Augusta gentlemen. The artist's glimpse at this east shore, as seen from the western or Winthrop side, gives to the reader a hint of the pretty shore and the rolling lands of the town still eastward. ^ ^jclUS^*-^-"^--'-^-^ . s^ms&^M Civil History. — Since the formation of the town the usual town meetings, with occasional special meetings, have been regularly held. The territory of the Hallowell Granite Works was originally incor porated in the town of Manchester, but a few years ago the granite company sought to have it annexed to Hallowell, in order that the roads might be kept to please the company. This was a measure that the people of Manchester strenuously opposed; but the interests of Hallowell prevailed, and the large quarry of the Hallowell Granite Works was added to the city. In 1852 the sum of $450 was raised and used in making a town hall over the school house then being built. In this hall the town meetings have since been held. In 1875 the town added to the hall a suitable office for the convenience of its offi cers. The poor fund voted annually is judiciously distributed; those wholly dependent on the town have been placed in private families for keeping. The affairs of the municipality are in good condition, and care is taken to elect the most conservative and careful to office. The Selectmen have been as follows (the dates preceding the names show the years of first election, and if the same man was again elected the whole number of years of service is indicated): 1850, Eliab Lyon, 4, Isaac Wadsworth, 10, and Albert Daggett, 4; 1851, Richard M. Pinkham; 1852, Henry G. Cole, 3; 1853, Enoch Wood, 11, and James M. Allen, 2; 1854, Proctor Sampson, 6; 1855, John Prescott, 4; TOWN OF MANCHESTER. 881 1858, Paine Wingate, 2; 1859, Carpenter Winslow, 2; 1861, Sullivan Kilbreth, 7, and Jacob Pope, 5; 1864, AVilliam P. Merrill, 3; 1866, Dan iel S. Goldthwaite, 3; 1867, Isaiah Jones; 1868, I. Warren Hawkes, 9; 1869, Albert Daggett, jun., 2; 1870, Henry A. Caldwell, 2; 1S72, Rob ert T. Hopkins, 2; 1873, Hiram S. Young, 3; 1876, Albert Knowles, 4; 1877, Charles S. Pope, 6; 1879, Willis H. Wing, 7; 1881, George H. Kilbreth, 3; 1882, Edwin Caldwell; 1883, Frank J. Hewins, 8; 1884, Lindley H. Hammond, 5; 1885, Thomas E. Jackson, 4; 1890, Alfred W. Hawkes; 1891, Joseph G. Sampson, 2; 1892, O. J. Foster. The Town Clerks, with date of commencement of each man's ser vice, have been: 1850, Isaac N. AVadsworth; 1852, Thomas J. Smith; 1854, Sullivan Kilbreth; 1861, Francis E. Wood; 1863, Jacob B. Thomas; 1865, William P. Merrill; 1866, Daniel S. Goldthwaite; 1867, William P. Merrill; 1870, Charles S. Pope; and since 1871, George H. Kil breth. The Town Treasurers have been: 1850, Jacob Pope; 1851, Thomas J. Smith; 1854, Asa Morrell; 1860, Isaac Wadsworth; 1861, Asa Mor rell; 1866, Jacob Pope; 1867, Proctor Sampson; 1870, AVilliam P. Mor rell; 1873, Charles F. Hewins; 1875, Charles S. Pope; 1876, Charles F. Hewins; 1880, Joseph G. Sampson; 1890, James T. Collins; and 1891, 1892, Wallace M. Prescott. Schools.— The parts of districts of other towns thrown together by the act of incorporation required immediate attention, ancl at the first regular town meeting the town was carefully divided into seven school districts, which, with the occasional change of a family for more mutual accommodation, is the present division. Five hundred dollars was the first sum voted; the amount has been annually in creased as circumstances demanded. Since 1874 the office of school supervisor has been filled in the town, and the result has been bene ficial. About this time a high school was instituted, and, since, a free high school has been supported two terms a year, one at school house No. 6 and one at the village. This, with the town system of uniform books, has raised the schools to a high standard. In 1891, after a trial, Prof. Elijah Cook, A.M., with I. L. Pope, as sistant principal, opened the Kennebec Home School for Boys. The long experience of the teachers, the rural beauty of the village, and the inducements of the pleasant home should make this a chosen spot for the education of young men. Ecclesiastical. — The Friends, who were among the first to estab lish public worship in the town, have their meeting house on the pond road. The Baptist Society of Manchester was organized in 1792, May 10th, as the Baptist Church of Readfield, with the Rev. Isaac Case as pastor. The church edifice was built in 1793, near the old burying ground in Readfield, and in the chapter on Readfield the 56 882 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. early history of this society will be found. After it was removed, in 1838, to its present site in Manchester, the society was strong and prosperous, but for the past few years has not sustained a regular pastor. Rev. William Smith, during whose pastorate the removal oc curred, remained until 1841, and Robert C. Starr preached in 1842, 1843; Lucius Packard filled the desk to 1845, since when supplies have been employed, except for a few years after 1860, when S. D. Rich ardson was settled. Among the supplies were: Rev. Eliphalet Smith, William Goding, Henry Kendall, Benjamin Cole, Joseph Palmer, John Benter and William Johnson. The Union Church is a plain edifice, erected in 1833, in the village. It was built for the use of all societies, but during the first few years the Baptists occupied it almost exclusively. Occasional services only are held there now. Cemeteries. — A large town cemetery is in use just out of the vil lage, on the Augusta road, and is kept in order by the municipality. The Friends' burying ground is near their church — a little distance in the rear — on the pond road. A beautiful cemetery, walled in, is in use by the Baptist church in the west part of the town. Here rest the ashes of some of the settlers of the town, and especially those of the northwestern part. Eliab Lyon died in 1849, aged 86. He settled where W. H. Lyon lives, in 1784. His son, Eliab, born 1797, died 1882; Sanborn T. Fifield, born 1808, died 1878; Dea. AVilliam Thomas died 1855, aged 65 years; Brimsley Caldwell died 1869, aged 82 years; Jon athan Knowles died 1871, aged 78 years; and Joseph Knowles died 1874, aged 74 years. On the largest monument in the grounds is written, " David Sanford, 1806-1849." In the very northwestern cor ner of the town, near the Belgrade line, is a small ground, well cared for but not much used. personal paragraphs. Joseph Arche, born in Spain in 1835, spent his life until 1865 in Cuba, and came from there to the United States. He worked ten years at Westerly, R. I., from 1875 to 1885 was sculptor for the Hallowell Granite Company, and in August, 1885, he opened a quarry in Man chester, where he cuts both ornamental and monumental work. His wife was Mary O. Conol. They have one son, John F. Arche. Martin Caldwell, born in 1843, is one of five children of Henry A. and Ruth (Smith) Caldwell, and a descendant of Stephen and Abigail (Low) Caldwell, who came from Ipswich, Mass., and settled in Man chester. Mr. Caldwell spent twelve years in the West, then returned to the northern part of Maine, where he had been six years, when in 1887 he came back to Manchester, where he is a farmer. He married Marie, daughter of Luke and Mary (Caldwell) Dinsmore. She and her parents were born in Anson, Me, and afterward resided at Solon, Me. /i << PRINT, 3IERSTADT, N TOWN OF MANCHESTER. 883 Joseph W. Emery, born in 1849 at Waterville, is a son of Joseph and Mary (Baldic) Emery. He is a stone cutter by trade, and has worked for the Hallowell Granite Company since 1869. In 1875 he bought the Samuel Collins farm at the outlet of Cobbosseecontee lake, where he has since kept the Lake House as a summer hotel. He mar ried Annie M. Tibbets and has one son, Charlie G Joseph S. Fifield.— John Fifield was born in Deerfield, N. H., in 1804. He was a son of Sanborn, and a grandson of Joseph and Eliza beth (Sanborn) Fifield. John left New Hampshire in 1826 to seek his fortune in the Pine Tree state. He came to Augusta, after he was married to Margaret, a daughter of David Hall, of Chester, N. H. This union was blessed with four children: Eliza S. (Mrs. Albion Nutting), Sarah A. (Mrs. H. S. Roberts), Joseph S.. and a deceased daughter, Mary. Joseph S., the only son, was born on the home farm in Augusta, April 9, 1837. Here he spent his boyhood, attending the public schools of that city. At an early age he manifested a natural taste for business, foreshadowing subsequent success, and at the age of fourteen he began to buy stock, slaughtering and selling to the local traders. This early venture proved successful and, with the exception of three years, has made a part of his large business operations since that time. He resided with his parents in Augusta until his father sold his farm there in 1868. In the fall of that year Mr. Fifield purchased 160 acres of his present home farm in Manchester, of Nathaniel Lovering- He has added to his farm by subsequent purchases, until he now has a farm of 300 acres. It is fair to state that his farm operations are second to none in Manchester. The care, earnestness and persever ance which characterized his early beginnings, coupled with that well directed purpose of more mature years, make his success as a business man and agriculturist a most natural and rational conclusion. 884 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. February 27, 1870, he married Lucy, a daughter of the late Ithiel Knowles, of Manchester, and granddaughter of Elisha and Margaret Knowles. To them have been born four children: Alice H.,IdaC, Grace L. and Herbert J. In the meridian of his life, surrounded by a happy family, he resides in his beautiful country home, in the midst of one of Maine's prettiest rural communities. George L. Fifield, born in 1826, is a son of John and Sarah (Gilman) Fifield, whose children were: Rufus, John A., Eliza, William, Hannah, Sarah, Mary, George L. and Abbie B. George L. is a farmer, owning and occupying the homestead of his father. He married Huldah A., daughter of Richard H. Gilman, and they have two sons: Fred L.and John R. Mr. Fifield's grandfather, Joseph Fifield, of New Hamp shire, married Elizabeth Sanborn, and their children were: Sanborn, Joseph, John, Eliza, Elizabeth, Jacob and Tristram. Marcellus S. Fifield, born in 1849, is one of three children of Hiram and Sylvina (Whittier) Fifield, grandson of Joseph and Lovina Fifield, and great-grandson of Joseph and Elizabeth (Sanborn) Fifield. He is a farmer on the farm where his father and grandfather both lived. His brother and sister are: Winfield S. and Eliza A., who lives in Readfield with her mother. He was married to Emily F., daughter of David C. and Mary Ann (Hunton) Williams, and granddaughter of Joseph and Mary (Clifford) Williams, who once owned a part of the present site of Waterville. Their sons are: Hiram D., Harry C, Charlie B. and Chauncey W. Sanborn T. Fifield, born 1808. died 1878. was a son of Joseph and Lovina Fifield, and grandson of Joseph and Elizabeth (Sanborn) Fi field. He was a farmer, occupying a part of the farm which was set tled by his father, where Mrs. Fifield now lives. He was married in 1830, to Cyrene, daughter of Tabor and Abigail (Caldwell) Lyon, and granddaughter of Eliab Lyon. John Hammond was born March IS, 1801, on the home farm of his father, John, in Sidney. He spent his early life in his native town, where he was a farmer. He married Athiel Butler March 1, 1827. She and her two children died, and March 2, 1845, he married Martha C. Pinkham, who survives him. In 1856 he came to Manchester, where he was a farmer. He died October 7, 1884, and his only son, Lindley H., owns and with his mother occupies the farm home. Lindley H. was born in 1849. He is a farmer and the owner of Hammond's Grove. He held the office of selectman five years, and was a member of the school board one year. He married Flora, daughter of George Wadsworth, of East Winthrop. Their two sons are: Herbert L. and Chester E. Hammond. John C. Hartung, born in 1828, in Germany, came to America in 1842, with his father, Helman Hartung. They came to Manchester in 1845 and bought the farm where John C. now lives. Mr. Hartung TOWN OF MANCHESTER. 885 worked several years in the Alden Sampson oilcloth works, but since they were burned has been a farmer. His father was a locksmith by trade John C. married Martha Kerber, and they have four sons: Herman, Frank, Henry F. and William. I. Warren Hawkes, son of Isaac and Lucy (Jones) Hawkes, born in 1835 on the the farm where he now resides, received his education at Oak Grove Seminary and at Friends School, Providence. He served several years on the board of selectmen of Manchester, was in the state legislature one term, and has been a school officer for a number of years. His time and energy, excepting that necessary for the care of his own business, have been given for several years to church work in the Society of Friends. He is secretary of Oak Grove school com mittee and a member of the official board of Friends School, Provi dence, R. I. He married, March 4, 1863, Sarah A., only daughter of Proctor Sampson, of Manchester. Their children are: Alfred W., a granite cutter and farmer; Lucy J. (Mrs. Prof. Walter S. Meader, of Providence), and Edgar S., a teacher, who graduated in 1891 from Farmington Normal School. Frank J. Hewins, born February 8, 1847, is a son of John and Ro- sanna (Rockwood) Hewins, and grandson of Ebenezer and Zilphia (Cummings) Hewins. Mr. Hewins' maternal grandfather, Solomon Rockwood, son of Solomon Rockwood, of Oxford, Mass., came to Man chester in 1800. Mr. Hewins is one of a family of nine children, six of whom are living: John A., Emma, Harvey G., Sarah, Frank J. and Fred L. Those deceased were: Harriet, died in 1854; Joseph T., died in 1889, and Charles F., died in 1885. Frank J., choosing the occupa tion of his father and grandfather, is a farmer, and a part of his two hundred acre farm was owned byT his grandfather, Ebenezer Hewins. In 1891 he served as chairman of the board of selectmen, having been a member of that board nine previous terms. His wife, Helen M., is a daughter of Alva Cummings. Their children are: Della A., Gracie B. and Gertrude. Albert Knowles, born in 1824, is a son of Jonathan and Sarah (Hall) Knowles, and grandson of Jonathan and Mary (Prescott) Knowles. The elder Jonathan Knowles was a tailor by trade. He was a revolutionary soldier, and came from New Hampshire to Man chester in 1785. Albert Knowles is a farmer on the homestead, which has been in possession of the family 107 years. His first wife, Fannie N., daughter of John Brown, died leaving one son, Alfred M. His second wife is Margaret, daughter of James Wyman. They have nine children: Gardiner M., Anna A., Holden H., Lewis W., Roland F., Arthur W., Gertrude M., Mary L. and Hollis G. Mr. Knowles' grandfather, Jabez Hall, was a revolutionary soldier. He has three daughters now (1891) living, whose united ages make 276 years. John Knowles, born in 1817, is a son of John and Betsey (Powell) 886 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Knowles, and grandson of Jonathan and Mary (Prescott) Knowles. He is a farmer, owning a farm of 170 acres which was originally set tled by Elisha Prescott. He married Sarah A., daughter of James and Keziah (Benton) Wade. Their children are: John A., Josephine K, Charles A., Alden W., Stephen H„ Abbie E., Saphronia S., Mark T and William S. Sullivan Kilbreth.— Among the prominent representative agri culturists of Manchester, the late Sullivan Kilbreth held an unques tioned place. He was born on a farm in Hartford, Me., January 25, 1815, and was the fifth in a family of nine children. His father, James Kilbreth, a native of Casco, Me., was a son of Daniel Kilbreth. He married Rebecca Johnson, of Limington, Me., in 1805, and in 1807 removed to Hartford, where he lived, a farmer and a shoemaker, the balance of his life. It was here that Sullivan Kilbreth lived during his boyhood and early manhood. He had the advantages of the common schools of that time and at an early age he began working, by the month, dur ing the summer season and attending school in the winter. In 1836 he came to Manchester, where by his own efforts and energy he achieved an enviable name and an ample competency. On the 10th of June, 1844, he married Sarah E., only daughter of Isaac and Re becca (Hewins) Wadsworth, and granddaughter of John Wadsworth, jun., who was a musician in the revolutionary army, and soon after that war came from Stoughton, Mass., and settled at East Winthrop. Mr.1 Kilbreth 's four children are: George H., Emma A. (Mrs. D. C. Robbins), Charles F., an oilcloth manufacturer of Hallowell, and Nel lie S. (Mrs. A. E. Brainard). In 1859 Mr. Kilbreth bought of his father-in-law the farm where Mr. Wadsworth settled in 1823, and in 1832 he burned the bricks and built of them the house. Here Mr. Kilbreth passed the remainder of his life. George H., the eldest son, married Martha, daughter of Wil liam Torrence, formerly of Pembroke, Mass., and has one child, Edith L. Since the death of his father, December 15, 1889, George H. has owned, and with his family and mother has occupied, the homestead. Sullivan Kilbreth was an active republican and was several times elected to the offices of town clerk and selectman. In addition to his farming he quarried and cut granite from a ledge on his farm. He was frequently chosen to settle the estates of his friends and neigh bors, and his superior executive ability especially fitted him for these duties, which he always discharged with credit. He was a consistent member of the East Winthrop Baptist church. In the Kennebec Agricultural Society he was an honored and useful member and sev eral years president and trustee, being an intelligent and useful sup porter, of the interests of agriculture. In public and private life he was an unostentatious and genial man, plain in his tastes and domes- HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. tic in his habits. He had a high character as a business man, and his firmness, perseverance, honesty and integrity were worthy of emula tion. Edward F. Lyon, born in 1839, is a son of Eliab and Eliza (San ford) Lyon, and grandson of Eliab and Rachel (Faught) Lyon. He is the only survivor of five children, David S., Sarah E., Charles E. and Catherine R. having- died. He is a farmer and stock breeder, and raises and feeds some very fine steers and other stock. His farm of three hundred acres was owned by his father and grandfather. Lovicount S. Lyon, born in 1855, is a son of Tabor, grandson of Tabor, and great grandson of Eliab Lyon. He was a farmer until 1884, since which time he has been a lumber manufacturer. He owns three hundred acres of standing timber. He married Mrs. H. F. Lar rabee, daughter of Ambrose Mariner, of Augusta. William Harrison Lyon, born in 1813, is a son of Tabor and Abi gail (Caldwell) Lyon, and grandson of Eliab Lyon, who came from Roxbury, Mass., to what is now Manchester in 1784. He has been a farmer, but he has given the management of the farm to his son-in- law, Mr. Jackson. His first wife was Maria, daughter of William R. Sanford. She left two children: William H., jun.. and Ella A., who married in 1873, Thomas E. Jackson, son of Samuel and Julia (Hewit) Jackson, and grandson of Caleb Jackson. The house where the family now live was built in 1813, near where Eliab Lyon built the first resi dence when he settled here. Air. Jackson was born February 25, 1854. James Martin, born in Devonshire, England, in 1849, is a son of John Martin. He is a stone cutter by trade. He came to America in 1872 and one year later to Manchester, where he has been employed at the Hallowell Granite Works. He married Avis Tremills, and their children are: AVilliam J., Eliza J., Mary E., James, Bessie and one son, James, who died. Edwin R. Mayo, born in 1842, at AAT'aterville, Me, is a son of Asa and Penial (Scribner) Mayo, and grandson of Jacob Mayo, whose father came from Cape Cod, Mass., and was a descendant of Rev. John Mayo, who settled there about 1650. Air. Mayo came from Fairfield to Manchester in 1883, where he is engaged in poultry and fruit rais ing. He was in the war of the rebellion for eleven months, in the 21st Maine. He married Mary D. King, of Fairfield, and they have five children: Vaughn M., Oscar B., Asa M., Jennie M. and Alice M. Willard R. Merrill, born in 1836, is a son of William P. and Martha C. (Averili) Merrill. His father was an adopted son of Samuel and Abigail (Plummer) Merrill, and held the offices of treasurer, collector and selectman. Willard R. is a mason by trade, as were his father, grandfather and great-grandfather. 'He married Alary Elizabeth At kins, and they now live on the farm which was settled in 1778 by Samuel Cummings, and have the care of his three aged descendants. TOWN OF MANCHESTER. 889 They have three children: Arthur L., Hattie G. and AVillard Scott. Mr. Merrill was three years in the war, in the 1st Maine Cavalry. Benjamin J. Richards, born in 1836, in Frankfort, Me, is a son of Rev. David and Susan (Ginn) Richards. He began to work for the Bodwell Granite Company in 1854 at Vinal Haven, and ten years later was made superintendent of the quarry there and continued until 1876, when he removed to the Hallowell Granite Works, owned by the same parties, and has been superintendent of the quarries there since that time. In 18S9 he built a neat and substantial residence near the quarries and just within the limits of Manchester. His first wife, Ellen Spaulding, died leaving three children. His second mar riage was with Ella F. Rose, and they have three children. Hubbard S. Roberts, born April 30, 1834, is one of nine children of Jonathan and Ruth (Hall) Roberts, who came from New Hamp shire to Augusta, where Jonathan was a farmer until his death in 1837. He was a son of John Roberts. Mr. Roberts has been a farmer in Manchester since 1869. He married Sarah, daughter of John and Margaret (Hall) Fifield. Their only child, Mary E. (Mrs. Herbert Young), died in July, 1884, aged twenty-six years. Virgil Scribner, born in 1824, in Augusta, is a son of Samuel and Mehitable (Pierce) Scribner, and grandson of Thomas Scribner. He came from Augusta to his present home in 1846, where he has since been engaged in farming and orcharding. The farm, called Hillside farm, was a part of the original Allen homestead and was later owned by Jotham Allen. Mr. Scribner's first marriage was with Isadore R., daughter of Jotham and Thankful (Longley) Allen. His second mar riage was with Mary Catherine Mears. Reuel W. Smart, farmer, born in 1824 at Vienna, is a son of Rob ert and Betsey (Dow) Smart. In February, 1868, he came to Manches ter and bought the ninety acre farm known as the Isaiah Jones place. He married Louisa M., daughter of Stephen Carr, of Vienna. Their children are: Rosetta, Jessie, Willie T., George W. and Robert R. Willis H. Wing, born June 19, 1848, in Monmouth, is a son of Sands and Deborah (Robbins) Wing. His parents, who were mem bers of the Society of Friends, came to Manchester in 1857, where his father was a farmer until his death. Mr. Wing, with his aged mother, occupies the farm which has been their home for thirty-five years. He is an active member of the Grange. He served seven years on the board of selectmen and one term as representative in the state legislature. He was in the clerk's office of the house of representa tives at Washington during the 47th Congress, and during the 51st Congress was clerk for the committee on public buildings and grounds. He was secretary of the republican state committee for 1886 and 1888. He married, November 30, 1871, Sarah E., daughter of James H. and Mary L. Sleeper, of East Winthrop. CHAPTER XXXIV. TOWN OF READFIELD. By Henry D. Kingsbury. Incorporation.— Characteristics.— Early Settlers.— Villages and Post Offices.— Early Mills. — Woolen Factory. — Tanneries. — Manufactories. — Stores. —Ho tels.— Business at the Depot.— Old Mills.— East Readfield.— Mills.— Oilcloth Works. — Stores. — Ashery. — Union Meeting House Company.— Churches.— Cemeteries. — Societies. — Schools. — Town Reports. — Population.— Civil Lists. — Town Meetings. — Personal Paragraphs. READFIELD is perpetual heir to half of the fictions, traditions, facts and settlement of old Pondtown, and to a like proportion of the first twenty years' history of Winthrop, from which she was taken in 1791. Only in the civil adjustments that spring from separate organization did her real life become any different after she became a township. The first significant feature that looms up in her character seemed to crop out soon after her incorporation. It was the moral quality and religious tendency of her people. No higher quali ties or better tendencies exist than these. Here was built in 1793 one of the earliest Baptist meeting houses in the Kennebec valley, and in the same town and at the same time flourished a Methodist so ciety that marches in the van of its denomination, as having built their oldest house of worship in the state. These facts are significant. They indicate a vigor that permeates the entire character. Intellect is quickened, talent is developed, and the possibilities of genius are enlarged by such environments. The air of Readfield seems there fore to have been charged with a tonic, attractive to the tastes and conducive to the growth of lawyers and statesmen. Four governors of Maine, a United States senator and two members of presidential cabinets she reckons with pride as having been her citizens. More men have been admitted to the bar who have prepared in a single law office in Readfield than from any other lawyer's office in Kenne bec county. In 1821 a public spirited farmer at Kents Hill became fired with educational zeal, and with five associates procured the incorporation of the Readfield Religious and Charitable Society. Like many other wise men they builded better than they knew; for only three years TOWN OF READFIELD. 891 later they changed the name of their child to the Maine Wesleyan Seminary — the first Methodist institution of learning in the state. The intellectual and religious life of Readfield has always been characterized by breadth and liberality. In 1827 representative citi zens from every part of the town built of brick a Union meeting house, at a cost of over $10,000, that for more than fifty years was the only house for worship in the village at the Corner, and is still owned by persons of differing religious tenets. Agricultural progress, al ways measured by the amount of brain and thought devoted to its interests, has always been characteristic of its farmers. They were partners with Winthrop in the formation in 1818, of the first agricul tural society in Alaine, if not in New England, and one of their num ber is the present secretary of that body. The names, and what few dates are obtainable of the worthy pioneers of Readfield and some of their descendants, are interesting and suggestive reading. Settlers. — Of the twenty-seven men who signed the petition, dated Kennebec, 1770, for the incorporation of Pondtown Plantation, the eight following were living on territory that is now Readfield: James Craig, lot No. 212;; Elisha Smith, lot 134; Moses Ayer, lot 213; Joseph Greeley, lot 135; Watt C. Emery, lot 23, near head of East cove; Robert Waugh, 1765, lot 98; Moses Greeley and Jonathan Em ery. Others who were contemporary with them on Readfield soil, but whose names do not appear on the petition, were: John Greeley's sons, John, Samuel and Henry, the last two living near the old town house; John O. Craig, who had a son, John P.; Mr. Whittier, who came in 1765 and cleared a farm and sold it to Levi Morrell, and had sons, Levi, Samuel, David, Jacob and James Whittier; Mr. Hoyt, who came in 1770 and had sons, Eliphalet, Hubbard and Levi; Captain Job Shurburne, 1770, and Eliphalet Dudley, who settled Dudley's Plain's in 1770. Some of those who came a little later were: John French, in 1785, who had a son, James; Benjamin Carr, 1785, on lot No. 29, and had sons, Joseph, Samuel, Benjamin, Aaron and John; and William El liott, who came in 1805 and bought of Andrew Blunt the farm on which his son, David Elliott, still lives; John Hubbard, M.D., came from New Hampshire in 1784, settled on lot No. 28, and had sons, Doctor John, who became Governor Hubbard, Cyrus and Greenlief; the Sanborns, who lived just west of Hubbard's; Jeremiah Brown, who lost a son in the war of 1812 and whose other son's name was Jacob; Doctor Sawyer, about 1795; Joseph Hutchinson, 1790, who settled on lot No. 25, and had sons, Joseph, Eben, Henry and Edmond; Levi Johnson, who died in 1814, had a son, Levi; Samuel Page, settled on lot No. 24, had sons, Nathaniel, Simon, Samuel and Madison; Mr. Richardson, 1799; Jonas Packard, 1800; John Lane, sons, Joshua and George; Samuel H. Luce; Taber Lyon, 1800, sons, Taber and Harri- 892 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. son; Daniel Gordon, 1790, sons, William, Daniel and Stephen; Luther Gordon, sons, Luther, Henry, Joseph and James; David Homes; Ben jamin Melvin, 1802, sons, Benjamin, Hiram, Abram and George; Sam uel Melvin, brother to Benjamin, sons, John, Samuel, Benjamin, George and Bradbury; David Sleeper; James Clough, 1800; Captain Judkins, 1805, son, Charles, and John Coombs. Three brothers, Nathaniel, William and Thomas Whittier, came about 1765 from New Hampshire and felled the trees on twenty acres, and the next spring burned the ground over and planted it without plowing. The crop was left to the tender mercies of coons and bears, who did some damage, but enough remained in the fall for a good yield. This surprised the previous comers, who had plowed the new land before planting. One of these brothers carried a bushel and a half of potatoes on his back from Hallowell to his farm in Readfield. Rev. Isaac Case came in 1792 and raised ten adult children. His sons were: Isaac, Ambrose, William and Elisha. When Elisha was seventy years old there were living representatives of five genera tions of the Case family. Robert Page, a very early settler, came in 1767, and had sons, Robert and Jere Joseph, Calvin, Alfred, Daniel, Martin and Margaret Johnson came from Bridgewater, Mass., with their mother, and settled in Readfield in 1800. John Dutton had a son, John, who had sons, John, Reuben, Daniel and Joseph; Shubel Luce had sons, Shubel, Thomas and Atest; William Aiacomber had. sons, AVilliam, Hatch, Sanders, Calvin, Harvey and Martin; Solomon Lombard had sons, Ephraim, Daniel, Benjamin, Solomon and Gor ham; Rev. William Hankerson, a revolutionary soldier, had sons,. William and George; Christopher Turner came from England and built the first frame dwelling in Readfield, now a barn belonging to William Harvey, on the Lombard road; and Peter Hunton had sons, George Washington, Wellington, Napoleon B., Lafayette and Louis B. Hunton. Villages and Post Offices.— The early mills may have located the first village at Readfield Corner, although the first saw mill on the- upper dam is over a half mile distant, and the woolen mill is more than a fourth of a mile from the post office, and is surrounded by a collection of houses sometimes called Factory village. The village of Kents Hill is two miles to the v/estward of the Corner, and was created and is maintained by the wants of the school. The settlement at the Depot was created by the railroad, which ran its first train of cars to this town in 1849. East Readfield used to be a thriving hamlet when the oilcloth fac tory was in operation, but possesses now but few promises of an in crease of inhabitants. A post office was established here, with Amos Stickney as postmaster, March 2, 1827. His successors were: Silas- Leonard, 1828; Abijah Upham, jun.; Joseph A. Sanborn, 1844; David TOWN OF READFIELD. 893 Bowker, April, 1857; Jacob Morrill, November, 1857; and Peter F. Sanborn, 1861, who served until the office was discontinued in Decem ber, 1870. The first post office in Readfield was established April 1, 1798, and took the name of the town. The succession of postmasters, with dates of appointment, includes: James Dalton, appointed April 1, 1798; Samuel P. Gliddens, July 1, 1801; Samuel Currier, August 2, 1803; James Fillebrown, jun., May 23, 1829; Timothy O. Howe, June 12, 1841; John Lambert, July 1, 1843; Francis A. Williams, September 16, 1850; Moses AVhittier, July 20, 1855; William Turner, March 5, 1857; Shubael P. Me s, January 18, 1861; Benjamin T. Richards, Novem ber 16, 1861: Henry C. Packard, November 21, 1872; Augustus P. Tur ner, March 12, 1877; Jere P.Johnson, October 3, 1878; Annie M. Craig, November 13, 1885; and Emma F. Johnson, who was appointed April 2, 1887. Readfield Depot post office was established February 19, 1851. and its postmasters have been: Benjamin F. Melvin, appointed February 19, 1851; Daniel Craig, February 10, 1854; Nelson Pool, August 15, 1861; Samuel H. Morrill, September 21, 1885; and Nelson D. Gordon, appointed August 6, 1889. The Kents Hill post office was established in 1826 to meet the wants of the young Methodist school, then only two years old. Its postmasters have been: Lory Bacon, appointed December 11, 1826; Dudly Moody, March 21, 1829; David Wheelock, February 13, 1851; Charles S. Haynes, January 7, 1854; Robert G. Skofield, January 16, 1855; Gustavus Clark, April 4, 1861; John W. Manter, November 19, 1869; Noah Jewett, April 30, 1875; Samuel McNear, September 15, 1885; and Noah Jewett, appointed April 22, 1889. The offices at Kents Hill and Readfield village are served twice a day by a stage that carries the mail to and from the Maine Central depot. Mills. — On the upper dam about 1770, James Craig built a saw mill, which at his death became the property of John Bean, together with a wood lot. This property was purchased by John Beau, jun., and John O. Craig, who ran the mill awhile and sold it to Dudley Fogg and David Sampson. The old saw mill had been rebuilt, with a grist mill and dwelling house added. Mr. Fogg bought his partner's interest, and kept the mills running till 1855, when his son, Josiah N, became the owner. He kept the mill in operation about ten years and sold it to the factory company. On the upper dam Joel Bean built a fulling mill that was run by his sons, Philo and Reuben, and afterward by Mayo & Bartlett, who in 1825 were carding wool and coloring and pressing cloth there. Dean Smith bought the old factory, which did its last work in 1843. 894 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. There was a tannery and a bark mill, built by Joshua Bean before 1815, on the stream that crosses the stage road at the foot of what used to be called the Cameron hill; they were in operation as late as 1840. The old dam still remains. The first grist mill in Readfield was built by James Craig before 1790, on the site where the present grist mill stands, on the lower dam. After many years Dudley Fogg and Luther Sampson became the owners. Air. Fogg purchased Mr. Sampson's share, and in 1843 built the stone dam, and the next year built the present mill. In 1845 his son, Josiah Fogg, became the owner, and continued to operate the mill till 1889, when the present owner, William C. Record, purchased the property. The mill has three runs of stones, sufficient water power, and has always served a large number of patrons. As early as 1785 to 1790, Robert Conforth, an Englishman, who had sons, William, Robert and Leonard, built a mill on Factory dam, where he made yarn and wove cloth for a term of years. After him a com pany in which Thomas Nickerson was main owner and manager, bought the property and were operating it when the great freshet of 1826 swept away all the dams on the stream. About 1830 cotton yarn was made in the factory by Thomas Ling. At the same time a Mr. Stanton hired a room and wove webbing two or three years. His son, Thomas, went to Monmouth, and made the same kind of goods there. After this, custom cloth was made, the yarn being spun by machinery and woven by hand. Lewis Flanders, who had been an owner and operator, closed out his interest in 1839, and was succeeded the same year by Josiah Per ham, who had bought an interest in the property, of Dudley Fogg. In addition to making woolen goods, Perham fitted up a shop, where he made machinery to manufacture woolen goods. He was from Wilton, where he owned another factory', and after making the ma chines necessary for the mills here, he made another set for the AVil- ton mills, which was just ready for shipment when the fire of 1841 consumed the buildings here with their contents. Flanders & Sherburn rebuilt the mills in 1842 and rented them to Wetherbee & Metcalf, who were the first manufacturers here of cloth for the general market. Perham made cloth for the home market only. They operated two years and were succeeded by Flanders & Sherburn, who did the same line of work till about 1848, when they sold the entire plant to Anson P. Morrell. From this time the con cern became known as the Readfield Woolen Manufacturing Com pany. The new proprietor was just the man for the place. He put wagons on the road, and sold a class of goods to the merchants that the wants of the country and village trade demanded, giving the Readfield cloths a great and widespread reputation. TOWN OF READFIELD. 895 Dearborn & Mills bought the works about 1870, and continued the same style of business for several years, when the firm changed to Mills & Hartwell. A stock company in which they were large owners was formed in 1880, put in steam power, and operated four years as the Readfield Woolen Manufacturing Company. In 1884 the plant was sold to Cowan & Co., who made yarn for about a year, but made no cloth. The concern was organized on a stock basis, and was desig nated the Nawoc AVoolen Company. A moderate business was done the first year, and then ceased entirely, the property since remaining idle and unproductive. Joseph Fogg built, just below the grist mill, a fourth dam, for the benefit of his tannery, about 1815, which business he prosecuted till the fire of 1841. Abram Bachelder bought the site and ran the tan nery till about 1862, then sold it to Charles P. Greeley, who tanned sheep skins tijl the close of the war, when Mr. Bachelder became his partner, and Bachelder & Greeley added a large building to the works, and did an extensive business in tanning sheep skins. They sold about 1872, to John Bickford, who continued the same line of work till 1877, when he was burned out. A most important industry had its beginning in the shop of James Williams, a skillful blacksmith of Readfield. His skill as a worker in steel, and a maker of springs for buggies and carriages had long been known, and he conceived the idea of making them for the trade. The first springs were produced entirely by hand labor in his little shop at the Corner. Their merits were recognized by a demand that caused Mr. Williams to put a trip-hammer in a shop on Factory dam, where the orders for his goods became larger than the capacity of his water power. Hebron Wentworth, a son-in-law and partner of Mr. Williams, moved the works to Gardiner, where they have long been known as the Wentworth Spring Manufactory. This was the first steel spring factory in Maine — a business that has since grown to immense propor tions. About 1834 James Williams built a brick shop on Factory dam, put in a trip-hammer, and made scythes for about three years. He failed to get the temper right, and had to give it up. The building was torn down. Sash, doors and blinds were made, and some cabinet work was done for six years by James Nichols, in a shop built by him in 1867 near the grist mill, on the lower dam. In 1854 land plaster was ground in one of the woolen factory mills, for agricultural uses, from stone brought from NoVa Scotia. The brick for the Union church, which was built in 1827, were made by Francis Hunt on his land on the Winthrop road, and were the first made in town so far as known. The brick for Sampson Hall, which was built in 1859, were made south of the saw mill, about forty 896 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. rods from the upper dam. There was an old brick yard on land near the stream owned by Shepard Bean, where he made brick as early as 1835. josiah Fogg owns the land and made brick there in 1840-41. Just east of the school house was also another brick kiln run by Samuel Currier. The brick for the school house, which was built in 1860, were made in the old Francis Hunt yard on the Winthrop road, by Upham T. Cram. Hotels. — The house where Mrs. Lord lives was kept many years ago as a hotel by Peter Kittridge, and after him by Cromwell Pitts. Timothy Fogg kept tavern where Mrs. Manter lives. Mr. Gaslin, Mr. Webster, Ben Barden, John Masher and Reuben Russell were successive landlords in years gone by on the hill where Mr. Russell now lives, a half mile north of the Corner. Dudley & Hutchinson were the landlords away back in the thirties, in the hotel between the Corner and the Depot. Joseph J. Hutchinson bought his partner's interest and kept the house from 1840 to 1881, when it was burned. The present village hotel on the Corner was built by John O. Craig, who made repairs and built stables in 1836. Mr. Linscott, Mr. Calden, G. M. Fillebrown, Mr. Mace and George Wing have kept it. Stores. — The first store at Factory village was built by Dana B. Fogg near the dam, about 1870. Fogg & Stevens traded in it eight years, then Fogg & Brown in 1880, Stevens & Brown, 1881, and Fred I. Brown till 1890, when he built and moved into the store he now owns and occupies. Anson P. Morrell built a store on the dam, which he carried on in connection with his cloth factory some years and sold to Dearborn, Morrell & Smith. Mr. Smith was a tailor and the new firm manufac tured clothing for awhile. A. P. Morrell bought the concern and closed the business. J. P. Johnson then rented the building and kept a store in it for eleven years. Captain Phineas Morrell bought the stock and his son, Anson, kept it two or three years. In 1886 J. P. Johnson opened another store near the factory, which he kept for three years. Some of the early store-keepers at the corner were: Thomas Smith; John Smith, who had a store where Merriman's store stands; James Fillebrown, where Hatch is; Louis Haines, who was burned out in 1832, where McDonald is; Lory Bacon; John Currier, 1832; Jere Page, 1832; John Fisk, 1836; John Lambert, 1835; J. P. Johnson, 1857; U.L Cram, 1856; and Lewis Davis, who built the store Wilson uses for a harness shop, and traded there till 1862. In 1865 Dr. W. O. Wright succeeded Lambert & Packard, who opened the first drug store in the village. John Smith opened a store in 1840, and was succeeded by his son John, who was burned out in 1856. Daniel Lombard, in the house now occupied by G. W. Manter as a dwelling, kept a store as late as 1832. TOWN OF READFIELD. 897 Lory Bacon, the first postmaster at Kents Hill, was also the first merchant, Dudley Moody the next, and David Wheelock the third. Later merchants have been: Gustavus Clark, Clark & Packard, J. W. Manter, Mrs. Samuel McNear and Noah Jewett. The first store at Readfield Depot belonged to a Mr. Butler, who moved it across the road from where the post office now is; Daniel Craig traded in it and was succeeded by his son, D. W. Craig. Sam uel Cole was the next merchant and G. C. Caswell, in 1880, the last. B. F. Melvin had a store on the west side of the road in 1850. About 1870 Oliver Parsons built the stone house now standing near the rail road and did business in it. Since then the successive traders have been: H. H. Harding, Parsons & Morrell, Samuel H. Morrell, Morrell & Gordon and Gordon & Henry. John Parsons, of Augusta, built a store just south of the stone house, and sold dry goods exclusively for two years, until it was destroyed by fire about 1870. On the brook running through the farm now owned by Lewis B. Hunton, a saw mill was built by Jere Page before 1820. He did a good work with it for fifteen years and sold the farm and mill to Francis Hunt, who in 1848 sold it to the present owner. After four years' use Mr. Hunton rebuilt the mill and sold it in 1854 to David Bowker. Samuel Wade was the next purchaser, and after about three years it was burned. On the same brook John Lane, about 1810, built a mill for grinding flax seed and making linseed oil. The business was abandoned before 1840 and the building moved away for a stable. On the small stream, one and a half miles long, at East Readfield, a grist mill was built by one Carlton as early as 1800. At his death in 1814 his son, Henry, became its proprietor. In the same building was a cider mill operated by water power, and Nova Scotia stone was brought there as late as 1820 to 1825 and- ground into plaster, which found ready sale among the farmers of that day. The old mill site is now owned by David F. Austin. Near the same brook Mr. Johnson built a tannery about 1812, which he ran till his death in 1817, when Peter Sanborn became the owner and did a large business till his death in 1824. Mr- Sanborn, who came from New Hampshire, was possessed of business talent and great activity of mind and body. Upon arriving at a suitable age his sons, Peter F. and Joseph A., in 1834 engaged in the tanning business, ground their bark by water, and for thirty years made leather that was widely known for its su perior qualities. After them a Mr. Horcroft ran the tannery a couple of years, when he died and had no successor. About fifty rods from the old grist mill the oilcloth works that be came the high water mark of Readfield prosperity were built in 1845, by P. F. and J. A. Sanborn, E. S. Case, Abijah Upham and Samuel Jackson. Steam power and all the necessary appliances for the manu facture of floor cloths were put in operation by the new company, 57 898 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. which did business for three years, when the Sanborns bought their partners' interests and two years later built two more buildings, with general improvements. In 1865 Peter F. Sanborn sold to his brother, Joseph A., who was sole owner of the works till 1870, when he sold the entire plant to Charles M. Bailey. In 1877 the largest of the three buildings was destroyed by fire, and Mr. Bailey at once removed the machinery and took down the remaining two buildings, each one hundred feet long. This terminated an industry that employed fifty people for a period of thirty years, compelling them to seek new em ployment or remove to new localities, and extinguished the bright prospects of a thriving hamlet. A store was built by Mr. Carlton at East Readfield, in which his son, Cyrus, was trading as early as 1816. George Gage was there in 1822 and 1823 and Jonathan Atwood for the next twelve years. Then it was changed into a dwelling. P. F. & J. A. Sanborn kept a store for several years when they were making oilcloth. Mr. Carlton also built a large house and kept tavern. His son-in- law, Silas Leonard, succeeded him for two years, after which Abijah Upham bought the property and kept a public house till 1845. No hotel has been kept there since. Near the oilcloth works at East Readfield Dr. John Hubbard, father of Governor John Hubbard, had an ashery, abandoned before 1815. E. S. Case made potash at East Readfield and used the leached ashes on his farm as late as 1868. Colonel Oliver Bean made potash as late as 1850, on his farm, now owned by E. Morgan, using the refuse ashes on his land as a fertilizer. Churches. — The large brick meeting house at Readfield Corner was probably built in 1827. An extract from the first page of its records reads: " The undersigned, owners and proprietors of the Meeting house recently erected at Readfield Corners, hereby repre sent that they are desirous of becoming a legal corporation by the name and style of the Readfield Union Meeting House Company." The petition, dated June 12, 1828, was addressed to William Fuller, a justice of the peace, asking him to call a legal meeting at the school house of district No. 5, to be held July 4, 1828. On August 23d the incorporation was consummated and a constitu tion was adopted, article third reading as follows: " Each religious sect or denomination, individuals of which are members of this corporation, shall forever have the right to supply the pulpit in said house with preaching such portion of the year as shall be equal to the portion owned in said house from year to year." Each owner held a deed of one or more pews " with an undisputed right to occupy the same during all public and private meetings held in the same by any religious sect or denomination whatever." Article eleven provided: " No tax shall ever be assessed on the pews in said house for the support of preaching in the same." TOWN OF READFIELD. 899 These provisions show the fairness and wisdom of the founders and organizers of this most difficult of all co-partnerships — a union meeting house property. Regular business meetings have been held, full lists of officers elected, and the equal rights of all members of the company have been carefully maintained. In 1868 over $8,000 was raised and expended in needed alterations and repairs on the meeting house. About the same time Mrs. Asa Gile gave the society, for a vestry, the old Smith mansion, which was moved to its present loca tion on the Union meeting house grounds and fitted up by the Uni versalist and Methodist societies. After a petition and warrant upon which a public meeting was duly called and held in the school house in district No. 5, September 27, 1823, the First Universalist Society of Readfield was incorporated. By the records it appears that annual meetings were held, and on March 17, 1828, it was voted " to instruct Captain Oliver Bean to engage Rev. George Bates to preach half the time for six months, and a fourth of the time the next six months on condition that he will attend for $6.00 a Sabbath." The regular business meetings of the society continued to be held at the school house in District No. 5, until April 20, 1839, on which date a meeting was held in the Union meeting house, the last entry in the records of which reads: " I have returned into the clerk's office of the town of Readfield a list of the members belonging to said society, being one hundred and twenty. L. Myrick Morrell, Clerk." * All of the names are copied in the records, and no women's names appear in the list. The organization of this society has been carefully preserved from that time to the present, and religious services have been maintained in the Union meeting house. Rev. George Bates, the first pastor, was employed at different times after his first engagement. The follow ing list of his successors may not be in regular order of service, but is as full and exact as has been obtainable: Reverends AA\ A. Drew, Calvin Gardner, Zenas Thompson, O. N. Johnson, George W. Quinby, S. O. Skinner, A. Gunnison, John C. Hinds, Giles Bailey, Costello Weston, 1870; A. Basserman, 1877; W. S. Whitman and F. T. Crane. The history of Methodism in Readfield begins with its first intro duction in Maine. The New England conference of August 1, 1793, made but six appointments— the last one reading: " Province of Maine and Lynn, Jesse Lee." The province of Maine at that time meant from fifteen to twenty thousand square miles of dense forest, dotted with settlements connected by roads marked by spotted trees, and in habited by 97,000 souls, with not a single member of the Methodist church among them. The bare attempt to make a mental picture of this field is enough to stir the dullest imagination, and to surfeit the wildest. Lee was born and raised in Virginia, was over six feet tall, 900 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. of fine proportions, handsome, and possessed of the ready, eloquent speech, wit and fine manners for which Virginians had so long been noted. With perfect health and the most ardent religious zeal, he set foot on the unexplored territory on the sixth day of September, and preached at Saco, on the tenth, his first sermon in Maine. Passing from settlement to settlement, he reached Readfield on the nineteenth and preached the first Methodist sermon ever heard in this town. Before the month was out he had formed the first circuit, and mak ing a journey of exploration with daily preaching, he returned and met the class in this town, Sunday, November 16th — the second class in the province, the first being in Monmouth. December 12, 1794, he preached again in Readfield. But the most memorable event occurred the next year, June 21, 1795, when he came and preached the dedi catory sermon of the Readfield meeting house — the first Methodist church dedicated in Maine. In it the first session of the New Eng land Conference was held in 1798. Bishop Francis Asbury, who pre sided, made this entry in his diary: " Saturday, August 25, we had to beat through the woods between Winthrop and Readfield, which are as bad as the Alleghany mountains and the shades of death." " From one thousand to eighteen hundred," says Asbury, " attended public preaching and ordination." After thirty years of constant use the building became worn and needed repairs. The society thought best to move it about thirty rods to the%south, and so made an old fashioned " bee." Long timbers were put under it, to which fifty yoke of cattle were hitched, and with a pull all together the strong, patient oxen took Jesse Lee's first church to its present location. The house was repaired at once, and re-dedi cated the same year, 1825. In 1857 it was again remodeled and en larged, a steeple and bell being added. The old church has of late years been feeble in membership and has not been able to sustain preaching all the time. The following have served one or more years since 1860: Leroy T. Carlton, Charles Jenness, W. F. Berry, E. R. French, J. W. V. Rich and Professors Frank Robinson, Chase and Edgar M. Smith, of Kents Hill. The pastors of Readfield circuit from 1794 until its division in 1827 are mentioned on page 778 of this volume. Some of the appointments at Readfield since the latter date have been: P. Crandall, 1828; G. G. Moore, 1829; Caleb Fogg, 1829; D. Hutchinson, 1831, '34; D. Cope land, J. Warren and C. Baker, 1830; D. Greeley, 1833; D. Fuller, 1834; C. H. Lovejoy, 1835, '36; H. Nickerson, 1835, '38, '43, '60, '63; J. S. Rice, 1837; E. Streeter, 1839, '42; A. Alton, 1840; J. Milliken, 1841, '43, '44; S. Ambrose, 1S45; S. P. French and J. Lull, 1846; T. Hill, 1849; J. Cumner, 1851; D. B. Randall, 1852, '55; R. J. Ayer, 1853; C. Mugford, 1854; W. H. Foster, 1855; J. Young, 1856, '59; H. M. Blake, 1860, '61; J. Gibson, 1861, '62; A. Sanderson, 1864, '66; J. AV. Simpson, 1868; T. R. Masterson, 1870, '71; J. Colby, 1871, '74. TOWN OF READFIELD. 901 The formation of the first Methodist class at Kents Hill preceded the church, which was built by Luther Sampson in 1800, and dedi cated the same year by Jesse Lee. Under the preaching of Joseph Baker, in 1804, there was a good growth in membership. Kents Hill was then part of Readfield circuit and so remained till 1835, when a new house of worship was built, and in connection with Readfield Corner it was made a separate charge. About 1831 Luther Sampson purchased a lot and built and furnished a double house for the preacher in charge and for the presiding elder. This house was used for a parsonage until 1881, when under the pastorate of L. H. Bean it was sold and a better one purchased. Under the pastorate of S. Allen in 1865, the church was enlarged at an expense of $1,800. The Methodists at Readfield Corner for many years worshipped in the Union meeting house, where they still own several pews, but about 1875 they gained in numbers and built a neat chapel in which the preacher in charge at Kents Hill holds services each Sunday. Some of the appointments at Kents Hill have been: P. C. Rich mond, 1831; E. Crooker, 1835; E. Shaw, 1836; E. Robinson, 1839, *68, '71, '77; C. W. Morse, 1841; Cornelius Stone, 1845; R. H. Stinchfield, 1848; G. Webber, 1847, '51, '58; J. C. Prince, 1852, '53; J. Mitchell, 1857; A. J. Church, 1859; R. C. Bailey, 1865; J. F. Hutchins, 1872; C. C. Mason, 1875, '77; C. Munger, 1878; L. H. Bean, 1881; J. Lapham, 1882; Cyrus Stone, 1885; C. F. Allen, 1888; and D. B. Holt, the present pastor, in 1891. The very year that Readfield became a township, 1791, Parson Potter, the zealous propagandist of the Baptist faith, began preaching in East Readfield and East Winthrop. The next spring Rev. Isaac Case spent some weeks of labor here, and a few months later returned and, meeting in a barn, organized a church with twenty members, of which he became pastor. During the fall of the same year he preached in a neighborhood adjoining Augusta, where a revival added thirty- five more members to the new church. In 1793 this vigorous young society built the first Baptist church in this part of the state at East Readfield. Elder Case soon after resigned his pastorate here and gave his whole time to missionary work. The church had no regular preach ing for several years. Elder Pillsbury came in 1804, and sixty were added to the church during his stay of one year. After two years without a pastor, Rev. Robert Lee was elected to that office in 1807, and remained eight years. Rev. Josiah Houghton succeeded for seven years, and in 1824 Orren Tracy, a student from Waterville College, preached with such power that seventy-seven new members were bap tized — more than making good the loss of members who left and joined the East Winthrop church, which was formed the same year. After that time the church had for its pastors: Reverends Joseph 902 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Torry, 1826; Robert Low, 1832; William Johnson, 1834, and William Smith, 1837 to 1841. In order to locate the meeting house more nearly in the geographical center of the society, it was moved in 1838 and is now in the town of Manchester, where its subsequent history is given. It would be difficult to find a church as prolific in forming new churches as this. Baptist organizations at Mt. Vernon, Belgrade, Hallowell and Winthrop were all inaugurated by members who left the old mother church at East Readfield. James Murphy, Samuel Fogg, Thomas Goldthwait, E. J. White and William Cross, who became Baptist min isters, were previously of its members. The Freewill Baptist Church, composed of thirty-seven members, was organized May 7, 1839. The church building was erected and dedicated in 1844. This church had three preachers: B. Hedge, Joseph Edgcom and S. P. Morse. The society became very much reduced, no services were held for a series of years, and the town bought the building for its public business. Ever since its establishment at Kents Hill, the Maine AVesleyan Seminary has been a strong factor in the moral, intellectual and social development of the town of Readfield. It is an institution in which the community takes a just pride, and its progress from its early days of struggle to its present era of prosperity and wide-spreading in fluence, has been a subject of engrossing attention to all who have lived within the atmosphere of the school. A brief mention of the seminary as one of the institutions in the county, has been made at page 101; but at this point it is befitting that a more extended review of its history should be given. The movement which resulted in the incorporation of the seminary, in December, 1824, was due to the efforts, at first unconsciously di vided, of two men — Elihu Robinson, a Methodist class leader of Augusta, and Luther Sampson, a farmer of Kents Hill. In 1820 the former established a boarding school at his own home in Augusta, and in 1821 the latter was one of five incorporators of the Readfield Re ligious and Charitable Society, to which he donated the sum of $10,- 000. In 1823 it was specified that part of this gift should be appro priated to the purposes of a school at Kents Hill; and in 1824, at the urgent solicitation of Mr. Sampson, Mr. Robinson removed his school thither, into a boarding house that had been erected, and assumed the general management of the institution. A seminary building was soon put up "in a plain and economical style," and, as the institution was opened as a manual labor school, mechanic shops were built, and the students allowed to pay most of their expenses in labor in them, or on the farm attached to the school. Though a large attendance resulted from this feature, it brought financial ruin to the enterprise, the productions of unskilled labor TOWN OF READFIELD. 903 being necessarily unremunerative; and after a trial of about twelve years the system was abandoned. In the early part of 1825 Mr. Asa H. Thompson, of Industry, was chosen principal of the school. He died, however, before entering upon the duties of his office, and Rev. Henry Cushman filled the posi tion for a few months. In September, 1825, Rev. Zenas Caldwell, the first Methodist from Maine who had graduated from a college (Bow doin), was elected principal. Under his direction the school attained a high degree of success, but failing health caused him to resign in the fall of 1826, and in December of the same year he died, at the age of twenty-six. In 1827 the school was under the charge of Dr. Samuel Stevens, a graduate of Waterville College; and in the spring term of 1828 Joshua Randall, a graduate of the same college, acted as principal. In the fall term of 1828 Merritt Caldwell, of Bowdoin, a brother of Zenas, was elected principal, and conducted the institution with marked suc cess till 1834. During his administration a woman's department, which afterward grew (in 1860) to the dignity of a college, was estab lished under the care of Miss Urania Merritt. During this period many young men of rare promise were attracted to the school, among them being: John Johnston, afterward professor of natural science in Wesleyan University; Rev. Joseph Cummings, president of Wesleyan, later of Northwestern University; William H. Allen, late president of Girard College; Bishop D. W. Clark, late bishop of the M. E. Church; and Hon. Timothy O. Howe, late postmaster-general. Though intellectually the school continued to prosper, its finances were in a deplorable state, and it became necessary to employ agents to solicit funds. Among those who acted in this capacity, from 1830 to 1840, were: Reverends Asa Heath, Charles Baker, Gershom F. Cox and Mr. James Dinsmore. During this time about $16,000 was raised. In 1834 Mr. Caldwell, having been elected professor of metaphysics in Dickinson College, Pa., resigned as principal, and the school con tinued during the year under the direction of Charles Collins, James Bell and A. T. Wheelock. In 1835 Rev. William C. Larrabee, princi pal of Cazenovia Seminary, N. Y., was elected head of the seminary, and ably filled the chair until 1840. In this latter year the financial crisis came, the income of the school having continued to fall below its expenses. The institution was bankrupt; all its alienable property was sold for the benefit of its creditors, and still several thousand dol lars were left unpaid. Mr. Larrabee was himself heavily involved in the financial wreck, and accepted a professorship in Asbury Univer sity, Ind. Still a brave struggle for life was made by the school. In 1841 Rev. Stephen Allen, of the Troy Conference Academy, Vt., was elected principal. He remained until 1844, when he resigned to enter the itinerant service in the Maine Conference. 904 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. In this year Rev. D. B. Randall was appointed agent, and succeeded in cancelling the debt of the institution and raising funds for a new seminary building. Rev. Henry P. Torsey, who had served as assist ant during the year 1843, was elected principal, and from the date of his wise and energetic administration began a new era for the school, both financially and intellectually. A sketch of this able teacher's life may be found in this chapter. On August 10, 1860, the spacious and elegant Sampson Hall was dedicated. The financial credit of the institution was restored, a broader curriculum of studies was established, the faculty was in creased in number, the principal became a president, diplomas; in classic style, wTere granted to graduates, and degrees were conferred. This new departure was followed by a large increase in the number of students, to accommodate whom the erection of Bearce Hall was begun. The building was completed in 1871, at a cost of $42,000, largely contributed by Samuel R. Bearce, late of Lewiston, and Hon. William Deering, of Chicago. In 1883, in close proximity to Bearce Hall, a house for the president, Blethen Hall, was erected. A con servatory of music and a commercial college were also established in connection with the institution. In 1882, after thirty-eight years of remarkable service, Mr. Torsey was compelled, through failing health, to resign his position as presi dent. His mantle fell upon competent shoulders, however, his suc cessor, and present head of the school, being Rev. Edgar M. Smith, a graduate of the seminary and of Wesleyan University. The school is healthfully and picturesquely located near the head of Lake Maranacook, and many of its students come from the farms of the state. The policy of the institution is conservative progress and its discipline is strict. Five literary courses of study, a conserva tory of music, an art school, a commercial college and a Normal school are now offered to patrons. Cemeteries. — The different parts of the town were settled so nearly at the same time that there is probably little difference in the years when the first burying grounds were established. That at the Corner has had the most interments and has been enlarged by the town. East Readfield has two and Dudley's Plains and Kents Hill each have one. Across the road from the present town house was a ground that was used after 1800, in which the mounds were distinct over the graves within the memory of men still living. It has been under cultivation for many years. There are private grounds near Armstrong's, near G. W. Hunton's and near George Whittier's. Societies — Masonry had an early planting in Readfield, Lafayette Lodge, No. 48, being instituted here January 13, 1826. Its charter members were: Edward Fuller, Franklin Bean, Josiah Whittier, 2d, Ira S. Chapman, Asahel Brainard, George S. Currier, William C. Fuller TOWN OF READFIELD. 905 and J. S. Fillebrown. The chair of the W. M. was first filled by Lory Bacon, and for the next six years by Josiah Whittier, 2d, James Wil liams, Edward Fuller and Samuel Snell. From the year 1832 to 1849 there is no record. The charter, which had been surrendered, was reissued May 20, 1850. Josiah Whittier, 2d, was again master, and was succeeded by J. F. Taylor, George S. Currier, John Vosmus, Emory O. Bean, Ira S. Chapman, Oliver Parsons and George M. Fille brown. From 1880 to 1892 S. J. Hawes, N. D. Gordon, Phineas Mor rill, jun., H. O. Nickerson, Joseph Gilman, C'. T. Kimball and W. G. Hunton have been masters. The present membership is eighty-one. Maranacook Lodge, No. 345, I. O. of G. T., was organized October 15, 1884, with thirteen charter members. Lee Yates first filled the chair as AAr. C. T., in which the following members have succeeded him, some of them for several terms: Fred Hunton, Charles Folsom, A. H. Wilson, Eva Smith, J. W. Hatch, John M. Williams, Harry Whittier, George C. Hunton, Allen White, Joseph Maswell, E. H. Hatch, Sidney Stevens, Walter Smith and D. M. French. The pres ent membership is sixty-five. Nawoc Commandery, No. 381, United Order of the Golden Cross, was instituted February 12, 1889, with thirty-one charter members. Henry L. Hunton was elected P. N. C, George E. Coleman, N. C, and Miss Annie Coleman, K. of R. There are thirty-seven members and the number is increasing. Readfield Grange, No. 217, P. of H., was organized in February, 1877, with thirty-nine charter members. James O. Butman was the first master, and H. O. Nickerson, F. L. Gordon, L. C. Luce and M. T. Mace have been his successors, holding the office from one to four terms each. The Grange had a cooperative store the first four years, which was closed out in 1882. Of the present forty-seven members, only seven belong to the original number. Readfield Lodge, No. 30, A. O. U. W., was organized April 14, 1885, with twenty charter members. The master workmen have been: AA^. C. Strong, Fred I. Brown, A. H. Yeaton, Eli Merriman, A. H. Wil son, C. S. Kimball, I. L. Hopkins and W. D. Haines. The Lodge has sixty-one members and is prosperous. Schools. — The number of school districts in town is six, in which there were 278 persons who drew public money in 1891, with an ac tual attendance at the different schools of but 143. This is in striking contrast with such statistics a half century ago, when Readfield had fourteen school districts. Judge Emery O. Bean and Miss Elizabeth H. Craig, who afLerward became Mrs. Bean, taught the two depart ments in the village school in 1840, then, as now, No. 5, each having over seventy scholars — as many as the whole town sent to school in 1891. Miss Gertrude L. Stone, an experienced teacher at Kents Hill, was elected supervisor of schools in 1891, and her administration of this 906 history of kennebec county. important department has proved the wisdom of the choice. There was a free high school at the village and another at the Depot, in dis trict No. 14, in 1891 and 1892. Civil History. — It is a matter worthy of record that the first town meeting, after Readfield was incorporated, was held in the spring of 1791, at the house of William Whittier, and again in 1793; the second town meeting convened at Joshua Bean's in 1792, also in 1802; the fourth at Josiah Mitchell's, 1794, also in 1798 and 1800; and the fifth at Joseph Hutchinson's in 1795. The record of 1796 cannot be found, but in 1797 the Methodist meeting house was chosen, and was the place of the annual meetings fifteen out of the next twenty-seven years, the last one being held within its walls in 1824. Eight annual meetings were held in the school house of district No. 5; the first in 1809 and the last in 1823. In 1824 the town voted to build a town house near Ellis Luce's, in which was transacted the town business for about fifty years, when the building becoming old, and the loca tion not central enough, the site was sold, and the present town house at the village, formerly the Freewill Baptist church, was bought. At the first election for the town of Readfield, in 1791, the select men chosen were: John Hubbard, who served 9 years; Robert Page, who served 1 year, and Christopher Turner, who served 1 year. In 1792 John Evans was first elected and served 9 years, and Dudley Haines, who served 1 year; in 1793, Joshua Bean, 2 years; 1797, James Cochran, 6, and Mathias Smith, 9; 1799, John Gage, 1; 1800, Samuel Page, 1; 1802, Enoch Smith, 5; 1803, Abiah Holbrook, 1; 1804, Levi Johnson, 5; 1805, Luther Sampson, 9, and John Sleeper, 2; 1807, Fran cis Fuller, 1; 1811, Daniel Campbell, 3, Eliphalet Hoyt, 10; 1814, John Smith, 5; 1815, George Waugh, 5; 1817, William Taylor, 2; 1819, Sam uel Melvin, 1, and Lory Bacon, 6; 1820, James Fillebrown, 1, and Henry Carlton, 1; 1821, Eli Adams, 2; 1822, Benjamin Melvin, 3; 1823, John Smith, 3; 1825, Dudley Fogg, 4, and David T. Sampson, 8; 1828, Oliver Bean, 20; 1830, Elisha Prescott, 6; 1831, David Wheelock, 1; 1832, John Haines, 4; 1833, Silas Leonard, 1, and Josiah Whittier, 3; 1835, Asahel Brainard, 3; 1838, Dudley Haines, 7; 1840, Thomas Pierce, 1; 1841, Peter F. Sanborn, 1: 1842, Elisha S. Case, 24, and Wil liam C. Fuller, 4; 1845, Joshua Packard, 2; 1851, Abijah Upham, 1; 1852, John Lambert, 4, G. W. Hunton, 2, and Asa Brainard, 1; 1853, Joseph A. Sanborn, 3; 1854, David R. Sampson, 7; 1856, David Bowker, 1; 1857, David Elliott, 3, and Charles Kent, 4; 1860, John Lambert, 2, and Gustavus Clark, 6; 1862, H. O. White, 9; 1864, Alvin Packard, 2; 1870, Milford N. Cottle, 1; 1871, Albion Stevens, 11, George A. Russell, 6, and Samuel Fogg, 3; 1876, H. C. Packard, 1; 1877, W. H. Holmes, 2; 1878, J. B. Lowe, 7; 1879, R. W. Soule, 4; 1883, J. B. Mayhew, 2, and W. C. Record, 2; 1884, N. D. Gordon, 3; 1885, S. S. AVillard, 3; 1886, B. W. Harriman, 3; 1888, F. I. Brown, 4, and David Dudley, 4; TOWN of readfield. 907 1889, Noah Jewett, 1; 1890, W. G. Hunton, 3; 1892, James O. Butman, W. T. Mace. The first town clerk of Readfield was John Hubbard, whose suc cessors, with date of first election, have been: John Evans, elected in 1793; Samuel Currier, 1805; John Smith, 1809; Solomon Stanley, 1811; Edward Fuller, 1812; John Smith, 1813; Edward Fuller, 1814; Jona than G. Hunton, 1825; George Smith, 1828; James Williams, 1830; Lory Bacon, 1836; John Lambert, 1837; Timothy O. Howe, 1840; Emery O. Bean, 1842; James Williams, jun., 1844; J. B. Fillebrown, 1846; Emery O. Bean, 1849; Asa Gile, 1851; Emery O. Bean, 1853; Reuben C. Morrell, 1855; John Haynes, 1856; G. M. Fillebrown, 1857; John Lambert, 1864: B. T. Richards, 1866; F. S. Hartwell, 1873; F. E. Bean, 1875; W. G. Hunton, 1878; G. W. Manter, 1879; F. I. Brown, 1885; and Eli Merriman since 1888. The first treasurer was Nathaniel Whittier, and his successors, with date of first election, have been: Robert Page, 1794; Joseph Carleton, 1810; Robert Page, 1812; Luther Sampson, 1817; John Smith, 1820; Cromwell Pitts, 1821; James Fillebrown, 1825; John Smith, 1827; Dudley Fogg, 1829; Lewis Haines, 1830; John Smith, 1833; Dudley Haines, 1843; Matthew Hayward, 1844; John Vosmus, 1851; Daniel Craig, 1856; John Lambert, 1857; Matthew Hayward, 1860; Daniel Craig, 1864; Moses Whittier, 1868; Gilman Haines, 1870; D. R. Lamp- son, 1873; J. P. Johnson, 1874; J. B. Lowe, 1877; George W. Manter, 1878; F. A. Robinson, 1879; S. J. Hawes, 1844, and W. A. Lord since 1888. In 1858 the town bought a farm on which to maintain its poor. This was sold and another bought in 1861, which was also sold in 1889. The population of Readfield in 1850 was 1,985; in 1860, 1,510; in 1870, 1,456; in 1880, 1,243. The valuation in 1860 was $505,807; in 1870, $589,171; in 1880, $499,089; in 1890, $363,728. personal paragraphs. David F. Austin, born in 1819, in Belgrade, is one of thirteen chil dren of Nahum and Jane (Farnum) Austin, and grandson of Moses Austin, who came to Belgrade from Lebanon, Me., in 1789. Mr. Aus tin went from his native town to Boston, and held a position as mes senger in Tremont Bank from 1849 until 1869, when he came to Read- field, having bought the old Doctor Hubbard farm of three hundred acres. He married Mary J., daughter of Nicholas Weaver. She was born in Belgrade. Their children were: Arthur E., M.D., of Dor chester, Mass.; John B., Mary E., and three that died — Carrie, David and Minnie. Albert F. Bean, born May 5, 1821, is the fourth child and only son of Franklin and Sally (Macomber) Bean, and grandson of Joel Bean. Mr. Bean is a farmer on one hundred and sixty acres of the four hun- 908 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. dred acre tract purchased by his grandfather from the Plymouth Com pany. He married Ann J., daughter of Peabody H. Rice. She died leaving seven children: Emma J. (Mrs. L. G. Lord), Ellen L. (Mrs. C. I. Eaton), Laura A. (Mrs. S. W. Bennett), Anna (Mrs. A. E. Hanny), deceased; Edward F., Cora E. (Mrs. Andrew Chandler, jun.) and Myra L. (Mrs. John A. Larson). His present wife was Bethiah A., daugh ter of Enoch Shaw. Jedediah Bourne was a son of Dea. Rouse and Hannah (Delano) Bourne, who came from Marshfield, Mass., to Readfield, in 1811, and bought a part of the Squire Page farm. Mr. Bourne was a farmer, and since his death in May, 1881, his youngest son, William F., has carried on the farm, and for the past five years has run a hay press and bought and sold hay. Jedediah Bourne married Polythea Turner, and their children were: Mary D., Angela, Jedediah T., Lorenzo P. (died at the age of four years), Hannah, Lorenzo P., Lucy A. and Wil liam F. On the Bourne farm is a vein of slate which was worked some fifty years ago, and from which many grave stones were made. Many of these stones may still be seen in the old cemetery at East Readfield. Frederic I. Brown, of Readfield, is the son of Lauren Brown and the grandson of Isaac Brown, who came from Brentwood, N. H., about 1800, to Chesterville, Me., where he bought land, built a house, changed a forest into a farm, and took rank among the most enter prising men of his town. His son, Lauren, the second in a family of eight children, was raised a farmer, succeeded to a portion of the paternal estate, and married Eliza Ann Stevens. Charlotte M. Brown, the eldest of their four children, has filled, since its organization in 1872, the difficult and responsible position of first matron of the Maine Industrial School for Girls, at Hallowell, to whom " is entrusted the whole care of the inmates, under the advice and direction of the man agers and the counsel and assistance of the superintendent." Her sister, Eliza F. Brown, has for many years been assistant matron. The third child was Henry S., and the fourth and youngest Frederic I., who was born in Chesterville December 26, 1850. He grew to ma turity surrounded by rural influences and engaged in agricultural pursuits, which were very pleasantly and profitably interlarded with a few terms of school at Kents Hill. In 1879 he thought best to ex change farming for a trader's calling, and so came to Readfield and located near the woolen factory as a member of the mercantile firm of Fogg & Brown. The next year there was a change of partnership to Stevens & Brown, which lasted one year, since which time Mr. Brown has been sole proprietor. His business as dealer in meats, groceries, flour and meal has grown under good management to ample proportions for a country village, keeping a wagon on the road five days in the week. m WL-- U_ M LJ LU ~'^9 H Lt ''¦"3^fe T MSi % T^Sj o oh- Q fyj. f~P-1sO^-\_ TOWN OF READFIELD. 909 Requiring larger quarters, combined with the advantages of mod ern appliances, he erected in 1890 the large and attractive building he now occupies, standing about midway between, the woolen mills and the Corner. In connection with other public spirited citizens Mr. Brown is one of the purchasers of the Readfield Woolen Mills, which after several years of inaction bid fair through the efforts of their new owners to enjoy another period of their old time pros perity. In the spring of 1884 Mr. Brown was elected by the republicans to the office of town clerk, to which he was reelected each of the two succeeding years. In 1887 he was chosen one of the selectmen of Readfield, a position from whose duties his townsmen have not yet been willing he should retire, as he is now in his sixth consecutive year of service. In the fall of 1890 he was elected to the state legisla ture, and served on the State Reform School, engrossed bills and the councillor apportionment committees. He was married January 19, 1881, to Miss Annie M. French, of Chesterville. The accompanying view includes a glimpse of their pleasant and attractive home — the old residence of General Robert Batchelder, a noted citizen, for many years high sheriff of Kennebec county, who bought it about 1850 and lived in it till his death. Henry S. Brown, born in 1846, is a brother of Frederic I. Brown. He came to Kents Hill in 1888 and bought of W. C. Record the old Kent farm of two hundred acres, where he is a dairyman and farmer. He married Caroline E., daughter of William F. Morrell. Their children are: Nathalia E., Venessa M. and Harold E. James O. Butman. — One of the most charming sections in the western part of the county is between AVinthrop and Readfield, along the west shore of Lake Maranacook. Here is many a bit of landscape worthy of the artist's pencil— glimpses of the placid lake set like a sapphire in its banks of emerald green; and substantial and inviting farm houses, suggestive of the general prosperity attendant upon agricultural pursuits in this highly favored region. In one of these houses, about a mile south of Readfield Center, lives James O. Butman, whose success in sheep husbandry and orcharding has not been paralleled in the town. Mr. Butman was born in Vassalboro, September 7, 1836. His father, Thomas, removed to Augusta when James was about eleven years old, and here the boy attended school until he reached his sixteenth year, when he went to Lynn, Mass., to learn shoemaking. Having remained in Lynn about a year, he returned to Augusta, entered the shoe business there, and followed it successfully for six or seven years. During this time, on January 2, 1858, he married Ellen F. Hilton, of Augusta, by whom he has two children. The elder, Lizzie, was born February 11, 1860. On her twenty-third birthday she married Frank Rollins, a school teacher ¦910 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. and now professor of natural science in the high school in New Brit ain, Conn. They have four children: Ethel, Mabel, Elsie and an infant son. Mr. Butman's other child is J. Warren, born September 7, 1880. About two years after his marriage Mr. Butman removed to Detroit, Me, and was there at the breaking out of the late war. In 1863 he returned to Augusta and bought a small place, but soon sold it and removed to Readfield, where he purchased the old Johnson farm on the Winthrop road, where he now resides. Here, besides other farm products, he sends to market many remarkably fine Baldwins, but it is in sheep husbandry that he especially excels. He makes a specialty of raising early lambs, shipping them to the Boston markets. He also keeps a small herd of high grade Jerseys, which produce an annual average of three hundred pounds of butter. Mr. Butman, although a staunch republican in a republican town, has never aspired to public office, though in 1892 he was elected select man, after having for several years previous declined to run. He does not believe that farming and politics mix well, and certainly the labor he devotes to farming is productive of more substantial and perma nent results than could ever be derived from tilling the stony field of politics. George E. Coleman, born in 1862, in Augusta, is a son of Barzillai and Amy L. (Greenleaf) Coleman, and grandson of Seth, whose father, Captain Owen Coleman, came to Vassalboro from Nantucket, Mass., in 1800. Mr. Coleman was employed as a printer in Augusta for some time, and in 1887 came to Readfield, where he is a farmer and fire in surance agent. He has been secretary of the Kennebec County Agri cultural Society since 1890. His wife is Jennie, daughter of G. C. Hunton, granddaughter of Samuel, and great-grandaughter of Peter Hunton. David Dudley, born in 1832, is one of eleven children of Henry, grandson of Eliphalet, and great-grandson of Stephen Dudley. Mr. Dudley's mother, Dorothy, daughter of Eliphalet Maxfield, jun., was born March 5, 1795, and is now living. Mr. Dudley was twenty years an oilcloth maker, and has since been a farmer on the original Dud ley homestead. He has been selectman four years, and in 1891 was chairman of the board. He married Mary E. Thompson, and they have one son, Irving C. John Colby Dudley9, born in 1823, is a son of Samuel8 and Mary (Childs) Dudley, and his line of ancestors were: Eliphalet7, Stephen", James6, James4, Stephen3, Samuel2 and Thomas Dudley1, who came to America in 1630. Mr. Dudley is a farmer and orchardist, and resides near where Stephen" settled, in 1780, when he came to Readfield from Brentwood, N. H. He came from Brentwood when a little boy to Hallowell, then called the Hook, and came through the woods to Read- o UJ O TOWN OF READFIELD. 911 field by spotted trees. John C. married Alehitable, daughter of John Dudley, and their children are: Jane C, Martin V. and Amey A. David Elliott, born in 1808, is a son of William and Abbie (White) Elliott. AVilliam Elliott was born in 1777, came from New Hampshire to Readfield in 1805, where he died in 1875. David Elliott is a farmer on the place where he was born, and which his father bought of An drew Blunt, when he came to the town. He married in October, 1832, Sarah S., daughter of Samuel Courier. Their children were: Marilla M. (Mrs. B. T. Richardson), Abbie (Mrs. David Courier), William S. O. and David O. (deceased). William S. O. Elliott, the only surviving son of David Elliott, was born in 1845. He is a farmer and speculator, and lives on a part of the farm settled by his grandfather. He married Annie R., daughter of Gideon Lambert, and their children are: Fred D. and Guy W. Benjamin H. Fifield, born in 1823, is a son of Weaver and Roxana (Curtis) Fifield, grandson of Ebenezer and Mary (Samborn) Fifield, who came to Readfield from Kingston, N. H., in 1805, and built their house in 1806. Mr. Fifield is a farmer on a part of his grandfather's farm. His first marriage was with Lovina, daughter of Nathan Hall. His present wife was Rachel A., daughter of Dan. Hill, and granddaughter of Jepther Hill. Mr. Fifield is the eldest of nine children: Benjamin H., Joann M., William E., Alanson C, Calvin, Lucretia L.,Eben, Mary S. and Harrison, who died April 24, 1879. Calvin and Mary S. occupy the north part of their grandfather's farm and the house that he built in 1806. All of the family except Benjamin H., Calvin and Mary S. removed to California many years since. Josiah N. Fogg, born in 1815, is a son of Dudley Fogg (1782-1855), who came from Raymond, N. H., to Readfield, where he was a farmer. His wife was Nancy Gove. Mr. Fogg is a farmer. He owned and operated the Readfield grist mill with his father for some years, and he owned it from his father's death in 1855 until he sold it in 1888. He was representative in 1875. He married Hannah W., daughter of Cap tain William S. Shaw, of Wiscasset, Me. Their children are: Augustine N. and Charles H., living; and Dudley S. and Annie L., deceased. Samuel M. Gove, son of Elias and Betsey (Johnson) Gove, was born in 1817. He is a farmer, and since 1855 has owned and occupied the Joseph Greeley homestead. His first wife was Sarah, daughter of Henry and Mehitable Greeley. Their five children, all deceased, were: Elias H., Charlotte, Samuel M., Sarah J. and Mary E. Elias H. was in Company H, 8th Maine, and died in 1863; and Samuel M., jun., was in Company H, 20th Maine, and died in 1864. Mr. Gove's present wife was Elmira, daughter of Joshua and Sarah (Sprowl) Maxwell. Mr. Gove's eldest daughter married William P. Bailey, March 2, 1863, and died February 10, 1884, leaving three children: Mary F., Lottie E. and William M. TOWN OF READFIELD. 913 Samuel G. Fogg. — North from the Readfield depot on rolling land overlooking the beautiful Messalonskee, is one of the best culti vated farms in Kennebec county. Here Dudley Fogg, a son of Major Josiah Fogg of Raymond, N. H. (a descendant of Samuel Fogg, of New Hampshire), settled in 1802, with his wife, Nancy Gove, and purchased this farm of 150 acres. The youngest of their eight child ren, the present owner of the farm, is Samuel G. Fogg, who was born in 1823. His first wife was Mary A. Stevens, of Monmouth, who died leaving one son, George O. His second wife is Ann M., daughter of Ebenezer Prescott, of Raymond, N. H. Their children were: Nellie D., Frank P., Chase E., Mary M. and Sarah L. The accompanying illustration includes a glimpse this homestead and its picturesque surroundings. Henry Greeley, son of Henry and Mehitable Greeley, and grand son of Joseph Greeley, was born in 1823, and married Nancy, daughter of Moses Whittier. Their children were: Ella (Mrs. S. H. Morrill), •Charles W., Etta F., died 1852, and O. Preston, died 1860. Samuel Greeley, born in 1823, is the eldest son of Samuel and Nancy (Taylor) Greeley, and grandson of Joseph Greeley, who with his two brothers, Samuel and Noah, came to this part of Maine — one to Hallowell, one to Mt. Vernon, and Joseph settled in Readfield. Mr. Greeley was eight years in Boston, and aside from that has been a farmer on the farm where his father lived, it being a part of the Squire Page farm. He married Harriet, daughter of Gordon Haley, who died in 1889. George Guptill was born in 1840 in Belgrade, on the farm which his grandfather, Nathaniel, settled, and where his father, Nathaniel Gup till, was born and spent his life. Nathaniel, jun., married Sallie Yea ton, of Belgrade, by whom he had ten children. George enlisted in 1863 and served under General Banks on the Red River expedition. He was next in the Shenandoah Valley and lost his left eye at Cedar Creek, on the morning that General Sheridan made his celebrated ride from Winchester. George married first, Matilda Tracy, of Rome, in 1863, and second, Ellen Lord, of Belgrade, in 1876. She died in 1880, leaving two children: George F. and Earl, since which he has lived five years in Rome, and since 1889 in Readfield. Dudley W. Haines, farmer, born in 1834, is a son of Dudley and Rosanna (Hunton) Haines, and grandson of Captain Dudley and Alice (Ford) Haines, who came from New Hampshire to Readfield and had ten children. Mr. Haines married Clara A., daughter of AVilliam Hankerson, and their children are: Emma A. (Mrs. Frank S. Willard), Alice E., William D., Celia J. (Mrs. Eli Merriman), and Clyde B. George W. Handy, born in 1838, in Wayne, is a son of Robert and Kate W. Handy. He served in the late war from November, 1861, to November, 1862, in the 4th Maine Battery. His first wife, Jennie AV. 914 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. Wood, died leaving one son, Bertie A., who since died. He has one son, Charles A., by his second marriage. Aaron Hannaford, born in Farmington in 1817, son of Robert and Keziah (McKinney) Hannaford, came to Kents Hill from his native town in 1877, where he has since been a farmer on the John Jewett farm. He married Calista, daughter of Moses Stevens, and their chil dren are: Eli S., M. D.; Ellen A., Emma B., Hattie Edna, Filmore A., Edwin H. and Howard C, who died. Benjamin W. Harriman. — If consistency is a jewel, so also is per sistency, for the latter quality rightly directly, is the true secret of success. To this salient characteristic is attributable the substantial success in life achieved by Benjamin W. Harriman, of Readfield. His father, James Shepherd Harriman, was born in South Kingston, N. H., in 1785. He was a farmer and cooper and a captain of a cavalry com pany in his native state. About 1810 he removed from Piaistow, N. H., to New Sharon, Me, where he was engaged in farming until his death, in 1843. His first wife, Sarah George, of New Hampshire, died in New Sharon in 1830, having borne him six children, two of whom, Abigail and Ira F., are still living. His second wife, Cynthia, daughter of Daniel Gould, was born in New Sharon in 1806, and died in Gor ham, Me., in 1883. They also had six children, all born in New Sharon: Daniel G.,born in 1833; Benjamin W., 1835; Asa G., 1836, who died in infancy; Mary E. (Mrs. Henry Leavet), 1837; Hannah A., 1839; and Ellen A. (Mrs. B. L. Hammon), 1841. The daughters are now all residing in Gorham. The elder son, Daniel G., lived on the home farm until he was seventeen years old. Shortly after reaching his majority he was sent as delegate to the first republican convention in the county, held at Strong, August 7, 1854. From 1864 to 1866, inclusive, he held a pro fessor's chair in Kents Hill Seminary. Resigning from this institu tion, he read law, was admitted to the bar in 1867, removed to Brook lyn, N. Y., and since that time has very successfully pursued his pro fession in New York city. Being an earnest student of political issues he was active on the stump in support of the republican ticket in the campaigns of 1880, '84 and '88, and possessing a mind of keen per ceptive quality, and strong logical instincts, he contributed much of value to the political literature of his party. In 1888 he wrote a pam phlet entitled Protection vs. Free Trade, which attained the remarkable circulation of over 1,250,000 copies. Another pamphlet, American Tariffs, from Plymouth Rock to McKinley, written in 1892, attained dur ing the first two months after its issue a circulation of more than 150, 000 copies. Benjamin W., the younger son and principal subject of this sketch, was but eight years old when their father died, and he soon, obliged to become self-supporting, went to work with the energy that has ¦X TOWN OF READFIELD. 915 characterized his entire business life. In his leisure hours he gained such education as could be obtained at the common schools of his na tive town; but as in the history of many other successful men, the world was his best school, and experience his greatest teacher. In 1860 he removed from New Sharon to Kents Hill, and attended the seminary there in 1861 and 1862. In the latter year his mother bought the Dudley Moody house, which had long been the only tav ern at Kents Hill. In that and the following year Mr. Harriman, with Gustavus Clark as partner, traded at Kents Hill for eighteen months. In 1863 Mr. Harriman bought the mail route and express Residence of BENJAMIN W. HARRIMAN, Kents Hill, Me. business between Kents Hill and Readfield Depot, and for seventeen years conducted it with marked success. In July, 1870, Mr. Harriman married Mary, daughter of Rev. Parker Jaques, one of the early Methodist preachers of Maine Pie was born in Newburyport, Mass., in 1817. At the age of eighteen he entered the seminary at Kents Hill to prepare for the ministry, sup porting himself while at school. He soon after entered the ministry and in 1837 received his first appointment, at Dixfield Circuit. He died March 31, 1885, after forty-six years of itinerant service, during which he took no vacation. From 1875 to 1881 he served as presiding 916 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. elder. He was a diligent and thorough student, and received from Bowdoin College the honorary degree of Master of Arts. Mr. Harri man is also an earnest and substantial supporter of the Methodist church. In 1875 the house bought by Mr. Harriman's mother was burned and Mr. Harriman purchased the place and built upon it his present attractive residence, as it appears in the illustration on page 915. By his persistent attention to business he has amassed a handsome com petency. He has dealt in agricultural implements and carriages since 1880, and at his residence and at Readfield station has supply depots for various kinds of farming machinery. Probably no man now living in this section of the country has had business relations with as many people of these towns as he. Since 1881 he has been engaged in buying cattle for the Brighton market, shipping by rail to that point as many as sixty oxen in a single week. For the last ten years he has been a large buyer of wool, having in one year bought in Readfield and other places over 50,000 pounds. In connection with his large business in terests he has also since 1870 represented at Readfield leading in surance companies. Mr. Harriman has held various town offices, and in 1879 was elected a member of the- legislature. He has three sons: Mearle J., Benjamin W., jun., and Carl R. William Harvey was born at Readfield June 26, 1841. His pa rents were of English and Scotch extraction. His father, William, was born at North Yarmouth, Me., in 1800, and died at Augusta at the ripe age of eighty. His mother, Dorathy Ann Smith, was born at Mt. Vernon in 1823, and died in Readfield in 1889. Mr. Harvey's early boyhood was passed in Readfield, where he attended the com mon schools and later the Maine Wesleyan Seminary. In 1864 he married Elsie W. Brande, of Readfield, by whom he had four chil dren, three of whom are still living: Roscoe W., James E. and Elsie L. In 1862 Mr. Harvey became interested in the salt industry and has been engaged in it ever since From 1867 to 1875 he carried on ex tensive lumber operations in Lenoxville and Warwick, P. Q. Since the latter year he has been connected with various manufacturing en terprises in the state. The salt business in which he and his sons* are now engaged is carried on under the name of the Dirigo Salt and Soda Company. They also are engaged in the manufacture of edge tools, under the firm name of William Harvey & Sons. Mr. Harvey lived in Augusta from 1865 to 1883, but since the lat ter year has resided in Readfield. He had three brothers: John R., Franklin and Winfield S. John R., of Readfield, is the only one living. John Henderson, son of Thomas Henderson, was born in 1827 in England. Thomas Henderson was born in the county of Kent, Eng land, and died in Pepperell, Mass., in 1842. He was married in Bris tol, Eng., to Sarah, daughter of John Philips, keeper of Market House, -V '. r *~\ . ty v,*,.,^,,,,,, j£C''»:X;\--"°"' -*»**-•» "a**,5£S* -Sw;c$?it Harvey Homestead, half-mile south of Readfield Corner, on Lake Maranacook, where William Harvey was born June 26, 1841. Present Residence of 918 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. at Milford, Milford Haven, Wales. John Henderson came to America in 1839 and was paper maker and manufacturer at intervals until 1876, since which time he has been a farmer. He bought the Jacob Graves farm in Readfield in 1864, where he has since lived. He mar ried Orinda S., youngest daughter of Franklin and Sally (Macomber) Bean. Their children are: Frank T., Alice J. and John H. William H. Hunt, born in 1844, is the youngest of five children of Noah F. Hunt (1802-1882), who came to Readfield from Kingsfield, N. H., when a boy, with his parents, Robert and Betsey (Maloon) Hunt. Mr. Hunt was eleven months in the late war in Company F., 21st Maine, was one year in California, and has since been a farmer in Readfield. He married Frances C, daughter of Moses and grand daughter of Henry Dudley. They have two children: Warren A. and Lillian (Mrs. Albert Stevens). George Washington Hunton, born in 1809, is the eldest of five sons of Peter, and grandson of Jonathan Hunton. Peter Hunton came from New Hampshire to Maine when a boy, and died in 1836, aged sixty-seven years. Mr. Hunton's maternal grandparents were Christopher and Catherine (Carlow) Turner. He is a farmer on the place where Shubael Luce settled in 1789. He was representative in 1856 and was several years selectman. He married Emily A., daugh ter of William C. Fuller and granddaughter of Francis Fuller. Their children were: Nancy, Elizabeth, William G. and Edna, who died. Henry A. Hutchinson (1808-1865) was the twelfth of a family of thirteen children of Joseph and Annie (Whittier) Hutchinson. Jo seph Hutchinson came to East Readfield from New Hampshire and settled where Charles A. Mace now lives. Mr. Hutchinson was a me chanic. He married Eliza, daughter of Benjamin Dudley. They had four children: Sarah E. (deceased), Elmina S. (Mrs. George L. Royall), who has taught about one hundred terms of school, and has two chil dren by a former marriage — Edwin M. and Elizabeth S. Hutchinson; Mary N., now the widow of Albion Stevens; and Henry A., who has been station agent at Walnut Hill, Mass., for twenty-three years. Noah Jewett, born in 1835, is one of four survivors of a family of eleven children of John and Betsey (Barker) Jewett. He was edu cated at Kents Hill. He served fifty-two months in the late war; after two years' service in Company B, 10th Maine, he was discharged as sergeant; he reenlisted as second lieutenant in Company B, 2d Cav alry, and was twice promoted, leaving the service in 1865 as captain. He was engaged in mechanical' work ten years, and since 1875 has been a merchant at Kents Hill, where he also did barber work. He was postmaster from March, 1875, until August, 1885, and was re appointed in July, 1889. He married Sarah, daughter of Zelotes Marrow. They have one child living — Susie M., now a music teacher in Auburn and Lewiston— and two that died — Harry and Fannie. <^2^€^£^ TOWN OF READFIELD. 919 Nathaniel Jordan, born in 1818 at Cape Elizabeth, Me., is a son of Richard and Sarah (McKinney) Jordan. He learned the trade of edged tool maker, and followed it in different places until 1864, when he bought a farm in Readfield, where he has since lived. He married first, Sarah J. Woodbury, who died leaving three children: Etta, Wil liam E. and Arthur D. His second wife was Abigail Dresser, and his present wife is Hannah, sister of Gustavus Smith. Harvey Ladd, of Readfield and Winthrop, was in the seventh generation from Daniel Ladd1, of England, who took the oath of supremacy and allegiance to pass to New England in the ship Mary and John, of London, Robert Sayers, master, March 24, 1633. Daniel landed and settled in Ipswich, where he bought land, and removed to Salisbury, and thence to Haverhill, of which town he was one of the original settlers, and in 1668 one of the selectmen. He was a man of good social position, which was the highest mark society could bestow in the days when the vulgar distinctions of wealth were not possible, because everybody was poor. Daniel Ladd died July 27, 1693, in Haverhill. Nathaniel2, the seventh of his eight children, was born March 10, 1651, in Haverhill, and married Elizabeth Gilman, July 12, 1678, daughter of Hon. John Gilman, of Exeter, N. H., who was a delegate to the assembly, speaker of the house, and the founder of a family that for two hundred years was distinguished in the annals of the state. Nathaniel died from wounds received in fighting the Indians, August 11, 1691. Nathaniel3, his oldest child, was born in Exeter, April 6, 1697. He was a farmer and lived in a brick house, and married Mrs. Mercy Hil ton for his third wife. Paul4, their oldest child, was born in March, 1719, married Martha Folsom, and removed to Epping, N. H., where he was a well-to-do farmer. Simeon6, their sixth child, born January 15,1757, was a farmer and married Lizzie Hines, of Nottingham, N. H., where he lived for a time and removed to Readfield. Simeon, jun.,8 their fourth child, was born February 23, 1780, and married Mercy, daughter of Nathaniel Folsom, of Mt. Vernon. She died in 1820, and he married Lydia San born. The children by his first wife were: Gorham, Paul, Warren, Harvey7 and Hiram. Simeon Ladd' was a farmer and lived one mile north of Readfield Corner, where his son Cyrus, by his second wife, now lives. Harvey Ladd', whose portrait appears in connection with this family sketch, was born January 21, 1814. He was brought up on the old homestead, and with his farming, learned the carpenter's trade of Joshua Packard, whose daughter, Laura Ann, he married September 30, 1839. In 1842 he bought and settled on a farm in Winthrop, which was 920 HISTORY OF KENNEBEC COUNTY. his home for over forty years. Here he divided his time between the arts of husbandry and the art of building, working sturdily at his trade a part of each year during the whole of his active life. Both vocations were profitable under his management. He was a thrifty farmer, a reliable mechanic, a life-long democrat and a good citizen. Harvey Ladd by his first wife had two children: Harriet E., born April 21, 1841, who married Greenwood Arnold, of Augusta; and Laura Frances8, born April 21, 1843. She married, December 24, 1874, Lewis Curtis, son of Atsett Luce, of Readfield. Mr. Ladd lost his first wife in 1846, and in 1850 he married Rebecca Holmes, who died about 1860. His house and buildings in AVinthrop were burned in 1890, after which his home was with his daughter and her husband, Lewis Curtis Luce, at whose house in Readfield he died, June 27, 1892. Kidder R. Linnell, born in Skowhegan in 1840, is a son of Robey K. and Charlotte G. (Clark) Linnell, and grandson of Sturgis Linnell, who came from Cape Cod, Mass., to Belgrade, Me., and later removed to Skowhegan. Mr. Linnell had been a blacksmith at Lowell, Mass., for six years, and in 1878 he came to Readfield, where he is a farmer. He married Ella F., daughter of David Larrabee. They have one daughter, Ada E. Joseph B. Low, son of Stephen Low, was born in 1819 in Vassal boro, and was a farmer there until 1869, when he came to Readfield, where he has since lived. He was representative from Vassalboro in 1864, and was several years selectman there; he has been six years on the board of selectmen in Readfield, and has held the office of town treasurer. He has been secretary, agent and president of the Kenne bec County Agricultural Society. He married Susan A., daughter of John Simpson. She died in 1891. John Edward McCormick, son of John and Serena (Dudley) Mc Cormick, was born in Gardiner in 1856. His maternal grandfather was John Dudley, who married a daughter of Abram Brown, who kept a tavern and was a farmer, being succeeded in 1827 by his son-in-law, Mr. Dudley. In 1884 Mr. McCormick bought the farm and now occu pies it. He married Margaret, daughter of Daniel MacDonald. Their two sons are: John C. and Daniel A. Roderick MacDonald was born in Arisaig, Nova Scotia, August 15, 1826, to which place his father, Donald MacDonald, came from the Highlands of Scotland, and married Margaret MacDonald, who be longed to a family of his name, in Arisaig, and there settled as a farmer. Their eleven children were: Angus, Nancy, Catherine, Alexander, Mary, Ronald, John, Donald, Roderick, John and Hugh. Roderick staid at home, faithful on the farm and dilligent at school till he was fifteen years old, when he began a three and a half years' ap prenticeship at the tailor's trade. When this was completed he < q/l_ c/fctx