YALE UNIVERSIIY LIBRARY 3 9002 06447 0298 ;Ch27 uo YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY ,* SKETCHES OF TUB] MEMBERS IN THE MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT, NEW BEDFORD, For the Year 1861. NEW BEDFORD; MINTED AT THE OFFICE OF THE " $lIIFrfKG tlSf :' 1861. In the following pages an attempt is made to render a service pertaining to the members of the City Government, the present year, such as might, undoubtedly, with equal propriety have pertained to years past- ! Former neglect, however, should be no obstacle to the performance of existing duty. The writer thankfully acknowledges the kindness of the subjects of hi9 sketches for their countenance and assistance in his labors, and he hopes that this effort to put cm record materials for the future historian of our city, will not be otherwise than immediately conducive to the public instruction and gratification. SKETCHES. „,.- The personal appearance ofthe gentlemen composing the two branches is exceedingly favorable, and we present them to the world as specimens which "our soil supplies," who seem to be mindful of the force of the honicly adage — "handsome is that handsome docs." They arc all "honorable mens" and we have sufEciont reasons to suppose that when "their day is ended" their record will be clean. Turtle soup and Aldermen, so long con nected with the public mind as inseperable, are divorced, so far as, the present Board is concerned, and they stand before their Constituents as moderate sized men. We will how attempt commencing with our worthy Mayor— to give you sonic, Idea of theit.antecedonts. ";. HON. ISAAC C. TABER, Who was taken— unexpectedly to himself— from the walks of private life to fill the high and responsible position which his fellow citizens have placed him in, was born in New Bedford, in 1815, and is, therefore, hi his 4Gth year. He is a thoughtful, prudent man, of good talents and excellent abilities. For ad ministrative tact and executive power, he has hardly an equal ; and his promptness and dispatch'are truly remarkable. In the present emergency of affairs, somo idea may be formed of the yalne of his services. He is eminently imbued with many of those truly manly virtual and happy personal characteristics which are rarely found combined in one individual, and which make him warmly beloved as well as sincerely respected by all who enjoy tho good fortune of his acquaintance; and which also hnvo a constantly increasing tendency to enlarge his sphere of influence iu the whole community. Look over the wholo field of English <1 literature, and see who it is that has brought the art of essay writing to its greatest perfection. Of course you at once say Charles Lamb. Mr. Taber, although actively engaged in mer cantile pursuits for many years — the book store, the hardware store, the foundry, and the rivet factory, has found time to culti vate his literary taste, and has probably the finest collection of old authors in this section of the State. Charles Lamb when writing his beautiful productions was clerk in an India House in London, and we are glad to sec that Mr. Taber can turn himself from his own private affairs, remember the public wants, and yet remember his books. Ward One comes naturally first on the list; and we will there fore try to give you some idea of' . ' "\ " ':'"¦ WARREN LADD, , . Alderman of that Ward. Mr. Ladd was born in the good old town of Bradford, Mass., in 1313', and is consequently 47 years old. At the age of 13 years, we find him in a blacksmith's shop in his native town, where he remained until he was 23 years old, which gave him that strong practical bias that is obvious not only in his business transactions, but in the discharge of more impor tant duties in municipal affairs. In 1840, on the opening of tho New Bedford and Taunton Railroad, he became Superintendent of Transportation, a position which ho has filled cvir' since with credit to himself and great justice to the community. He is well versed in our city affairs, and thoroughly understands all our corporate wants, having held the office of Councilman for 5 years, one of which he was the presiding officer, and sustained himself with ability. There is no position in which his fellow citizens have placed him, but what he has satisfied overy reasonable ex pectation. Ho has opinions of his own, and the courage and language to express them on every proper occasion. He was tho prime mover in the establishment of our Free Library, which was the first planted in the Western World, and we congratu late New Bedford iu having adopted one who is so active, faith ful and cfiicicnt, ever ready to build up hor interests and sustain her institutions. I T ¦r Next we come to JAMES L. HUMPHREY. Born in Jericho, Chittenden County, Vermont, in 1821, and educated as a farmer, but commenced "keeping school" at 16, in which noble vocation he was an ornament for some two years — but the enticements of a whaling voyage brought him to New Bedford, and he embarked on board the ship Mercator. Re turning from an unsuccessful voyage in ten days after, he re sumed his employment of teaching school at the Head of tho River. For many years he taught school there and at the Long Plain, where he distinguished himself for his application and efficiency. In 1847 he came to this city and entered with a rigorous hand into the produce business ; and no one can say that he does not deal justly and honestly. Mr. Humphrey repre sents Ward Two with ability, and is greatly endeared by his fellow citizens in that locality as well as in the whole community. In Ward Three we find ¦'.::•¦ . ,..;J'-, :;,- f'A-:: NATHAN LEWIS, "' Who was born in Barnstable in 181G. At the age of 14 years he came to New Bedford as an apprentice to Mark B. Palmer, in Centre street. Serving out his time with great fidelity and interest to his employer, he took him as a partner, and remained there some 7 years, since which time he has been in business in Water street, and by his cordiality, adaption to business, and fixedness ot purpose, has gained not only a large share of trade, but a wide circle of friends. Tho estimation in which Mr. Lewis is held by his fellow citizens is indicated by tho various offices of 1 trust and honor which have been bestowed upon him. There is no man, we believe, that went from one town to another who is more highly esteemed in the place of his nativity than Mr. Lewis JOHN P. BARKER, Of Ward Four, was born in New Bedford, in 181G. Ho was first employed as clerk in the dry goods storo of Samuel ISouth- gate, in this city, where ho remained about nine years. He was appointed to a clerkship in the Marine Bank in October, 1839, and in March, 1842, was elected Cashier, which position he has since filled with fidelity and satisfaction to the Institution, and with great acceptance to the whole community. The distinguish ing qualities of his mind are correctness, integrity and good judgement, which in a great measure have contributed to his success in life. The perfect uprightness of his daily walk has given him the entire confidence of his fellow citizens. As a Cashier he has acquired a high reputation, and his enterprising ability and good management have greatly promoted the interest and prosperity ofthe Bank with which he has so long been con nected. Mr. Barker is a gentleman of remarkable modesty, and consequently has not sought office of any kind, preferring re tirement and the high satisfaction of discharging his private duties well, to that of serving the public Tho sketch of such a man we write with pleasure, for he is not only an honor to the name he bears, but an example that may be safely followed. Mr. Barker came from worthy stock, being the son ofthe late Joshua Barker, who was highly esteemed in this community as a philan thropist and christian. Few men were more warmly beloved, and when he died the public testified their high regard of his worth, by the erection of a handsome monument in Rural Ceme tery. He was honored and beloved in life, respected and lamented in death. His descendents, and all of the name may well bo proud of his deeds and his worth. / . The subject of.this sketch, MATTHEW HOWLAND, ' Son of George Howland, was born in 1814, in New Bedford,- and received tho principal portion of his education at tho Friends'; Academy, under the supervision of J. II. W. Pago and John F. Emerson. Having applied himself to his books with great dili gence, at the age of 17 ho left school and entered tho Counting House of his father, who was one of the most successful ship owners ever engaged in tho whale fishery in Now Bedford. Mi- Howland in his mental organization, his principles and habits,: 1 was ofthe "utilitarian school," and preferred practice to theory. These characteristics, which were uppermost in his father's mind, he nought constantly to instill into the minds of his children ; and in the subject of this sketch we find his efforts were not in vain. Although the father was possessed of a large share of wealth, 11 young Howland was early taught to rely on his own resources, and that any thing he could do himself should not be done by another. Consequently he wa3 often initiated into many duties which in more aristocratic families are attended to by servants. At the age of 21 he took an interest in the business of bis father, and after his death was chosen Director in Commercial Bank, of which his father had been President, which was not only a mark of respect but showed the confidence which the institution re posed in him. The organization of Mr. Howland's mind, his education and habits arc such that the details of business entrust ed to his care are faithfully and thoroughly attended to. He has therefore, for many years, been a Director or Trustee of the Savings Bank, and was one of the first Trustees of our Free Library. Ho. was the principal executor in the settlement of his father's estate, ,and a Trustee for several of his children and grand-children. , About six years since he was urged to accept the office of Secretary of the New Bedford Bible Society, com posed of members from all the different religious societies of this city, and for the past two and a half years has acceptably filled the station of President in this increasing, useful and respectable body. He was member of the Common Council in 1850, '51, '52 and '53 — the two last years of which he was President, and dis charged tho duties of presiding officer with great acceptance and ability. He was appointed last year, and again this, one of tho Committee on Accounts in Harvard College, and is also Chair man of tho Committee on Public Property, and Chairman of Committee on Accounts in the Boaid of Aldermen, two ofthe most responsible positions in that branch of the Government. In his business transactions Mr. Howland has ever had the reputa tion of perfect integrity and a high sense of honor. lie has therefore, been successful, and has accumulated a competence of "this world's goods." Firmness, reliability, deliberation, and Round judgment, aro among his leading characteristics. Possess ing a taste as refined as it is pure, .lie has reared him a delightful home on the corner of Hawthorne and Cottage streets, which is presided over by a lady of refined sweetness of manner and genial intelligence, and adorned with a handsome library and everything whkjh is calculated to gratify and elevate the taste. . CAPT. WILLIAM H. REYNARD, Was born in New Bedford in 1808, and is therefore the oldest member of this branch of the Government. At the age of 11 years he commenced going to sea, which pursuit he followed until the year 1857 — both whaling and merchant voyages— and has been noted in both capacities as an accomplished Commander. Mr. Roynard has twice been elected Common Councilman, and this is his second term in tho Board of Aldermen. In Captain Reynard wo see a self-made, and yet a full-made man. He has been the architect of .his own fortune, rising as he did from com paratively humble circumstances ; and we yield a thousand fold more respect to such as he, than we can ever feel, for one who owes his wealth and his standing in tho world, to the mere acci dent of birth. COMMON COUNCILMEN. £ h It % JOHN CRANSTON. The subject of this notice, was born in New Bedford, in 1822, receiving his education in the excellent common schools of his native town. ' Of sanguine temperament from boyhood up, he has ever been ardent, energetic,' and indefatigable. Gifted with a physical frame of more than ordinary strength, to him labor has ever been a pastime, and such he has generally made it by leading the van and challenging his comrades to "come up" even in his earlier years; but few of whom could cope with him in achievements. At the age of' 1G, he was apprenticed to Ichabod Chase with the view of learning the cooper's trade, but the business did not suit his taste and at the expiration of five months he changed it for his present employment, and the success which has rewarded his labors, shows that the move was not a bad one ; sonic of the finest whale and jileasurc boats that cut our waters have been constructed by him. His reputation as a builder is so thoroughly established that he is constantly receiving orders from all sections of tho country. Among the monuments of his skill is the famous Bazaar, which has been in successful operation about one year. Mr. Cranston is ardently devoted to the enuso of Republicanism, and is much esteemed in the ward in which he resides for tho manly expression of his principles. 10. HON. GEORGE, HOWLAND Jit. -' This gentleman, is a member from Ward Five and now, for the second time, President of the Common Council. No citizen of New Bedford has been longer before the public as a public man, no one has been called upou to discharge so many and such varied duties. In the discharge of civic, political, educational and charitable trusts, he ! has been for many years a) servant of tho public, and a servant whom the public have been glad to trust and delighted to honor. Twice elected Mayor, after having for several years held an analagous situation as a member of the board of Selectmen, he discharged ' its multiform duties with ability and promptness. He has been a member of both branches of the General Court and of the Executive Council. His labor as a trustee of the State Lunatic Hospital at Taunton have been in a high degree useful to that most successful institution. He is now serving his second term upon tho board. The educational interests of this and other communities have found in; Mr. Howland, an untiring advocate and a judicious and enlightened councillor. He was long n member of our School committee, and in one of his addressed while Mayor, will be found the first recommendation in relation to the ] appointment of a Superinteit- dent of schools. As a trustco of Havcrford College, an Overseer of Brown University and an active adviser in tho offices ofthe Yearly Meeting School at Providence, he has shown his lpvq of aii elevated culture, and of sound learning,^ and his zeal and ability made him a uscfijl and cherished T member of the < various educational bodies ' with < which he" has been connected. As a merchant and man of business he stands deservedly high. No man among us is more intimately and practically familier with the details of the business for which our city has been so long and bo favorably distinguished... As president of tho Five Cents Savings Bank, ho has given a high position to that woll managed and popular institution. : Mr. Howland is about 55 years of age, and his vigorous constitution and temperate habits give promise of many years of usefulness. Ho has no children, within n few weeks his Inst, n noblo young man of 28 years has been taken, and tho household of our esteemed fellow citizen is now U childless. What a manifestation of the love and regard for both father and son, was the multitudinous gathering which on that Jun6 afternoon, assembled to pay the last sad duties to the remains of that' chgrished, honored, and beloved young man. ; How truly may, bo applied to him the oft quoted lines of the poet; / . . .: ¦ "'' r ' "None knew thee but to love thee, ' ¦/ ;,,;',!,'¦ None name thee but to praise." ; - .':¦,. , .. '*.... , ^ ' * The light of that household has not turned to darkness. The mellow radiance which gild the memory of the dear departed will long remain, and associated with it will be the cherishing light that flows from that wide spread and heart felt sympathy which was so deeply and spontaneously manifested by the inhabitants of our city. ^.* > .-. / . y ¦ /V J ' WILLIAM LOGAN RODMAN, , Son of Benjamin Rodman, was born in New Bedford in 1823. He was a student in Friends' Academy five years, with Mr. Wells .in' Cambridge two years, and graduated at Harvard University in 1842. In 1849 he went to California in the Florida, a portion of which he owned, and performed the same hardy services with the ship's company, always doing his share although from youth up accustomed to the luxuries of life. Leaving San Francisco as a matter of adventure and "seeing things" he proceeded to ¦ Calcutta and Europe, the trip occupying some fifteen months. In 1851, he returned to New Bedford, since which time he has been owner, and agent of the Candle Paper Mills at the Head of tho River, also connected with the whaling business. He is president of the Horticultural Society, au institution in which he fakes particular interest, ono of tho trustees of tho Five Cents Savings Bank, and also one of the trustees of Friends' Academy. Mr. Rodman liko his father is a plain, frank, open hearted generous man, wears no disguise, speaks out freely, despising formality and hypocrisy in every shapo and manner. . Ho is economical, and having the interests of his constituents in view keeps his eye constantly on tho tax list. !, . 12 13 JOHN A. PECK, ; : So say the chronicles, was born in the town of Seekonk, in 1 80 7, and resided there until he was 19 years old, when he went to Providence and officiated as clerk in, a Livery Stable, at the expiration of which time, he camo to New Bedford and drove team eight months for I. H. Bartlett. Six months following wo find him hammering stone— getting 'out steps and underpinnings. After which he worked as gardner for Samuel Rodman two years. So that it seems Mr. Peck was a natural genius and adapted to almost anything in the "ring."~-xLeaving Mr. Rodman he learned the cooper's trade of David Chase, who at that time had a shop on Maxfield street just below Purchase,, has beon engaged in this branch of business until tho present timo, living in Fairhaven until within the last seven years. For the last twelve years Mr. Peck has been in business on his own account, having bought out Delano & Case, in whose employ he had been for several years previous. He is a good, plain, common sense man, and distinguished for solid qualities of both mind and heart. He is a faithful, tender and provident husband, a kind and affectionate father, a good citizen, a friend to all, tho enemy of none. , This is the third year Mr. Peck has been in the Government. He sustains. himself well....' SANFORD ALMY,,. Son of Pardom Almy, was born in Little Compton, R. I., in 1830. His pedigree can be traced to a very respectable ancestry. The first member of the large family, whose name was Job, came from England, and settled in New Jersey ; but afterwards moved to Rhode Island. Some 15 years ago the subject of this sketch came to New Bedford, going through tho High School where he graduated with commendation. Ho has since officiated in the capacity of clerk for his brother Charles Almy, until January last, when ho purchased his interest and the business is now carried on under his own name. Mr, Almy' is remarked for much generosity and public spirit, and never fails to show these characteristics on all public occasions. : \i *£¦ "«•¦ -$ ?' A. r SIMEON N. WEST • Was1 bora in New Bedford in 1817, receiving his education at the public schools. At the age of 1G he commenced going to sea, making his first voyage in the ship Fenelon. The next voyage, which was the last, was made in the Maria Theresa) in' 183G.,' Ex-GoVernor Gardner being one of the foremast hands. It appears that his Excellency conceived the romantic idea of shooting Indians in Texas, and proceeded as far as New York with that intention, but a more mature deliberation changed his mind, and he came to New Bedford and shipped for the Pacific, desiring to form some idea of the treasures of the deep- Mr. West next turned his attention to agriculture, in 1840, on a farm belonging to his father, in the north-westerly portion of the city, in which employment he was engaged for a period of fifteen years. Abandoning his farming pursuits, he took the agency of several ships, and has since been engaged in that capacity, in which he has been highly successful. His father, John Pcckham West, was ono ofthe "strong men" in this community, and filled Various offices of public trust with signal ability. He was a man of excellent judgment, cautious, prudent, and of sound sterling common sense qualities, which are possessed in a praiseworthy degree by his son. This is the second year Mr. "West has been a member of the Council, but he represents his Ward with ability, and tho economical views he advances in regard to ap propriations meet with great favor with his constituents. . PELEG BUTTS lf Was born in the good old town of Little Compton, in 1806. At the age of ,12 years his father moved to Warren, 11. 1., where he went to school until he was 1G rears old, at which time he went to Providence and learned a black smith's trade of George C. Brown. In 1827 he came to Now Bedford and work ed as journeyman for Thurston Potter ono rear and Nnilian Taber two years, when he embarked in business on his own ac count, just north of Beetle's spar yard, which he carried on five 14 years, and then entered into a copartnership with Jonathan Smith, which continued until 1854, when he bought Mr. Smith out, and subsequently the firm has been under the style of Peleg Butts & Son. For the first four years after the organization of the City Government, Mr. Butts was a member of the Council ; as also last year, and still continues in it "as good as new." He is much respected for his prompt and correct' business habits, his kind and courteous manners, and a virtuous life. He is a man of great industry and enterprize, and exemplifies the doctrines of his "Lord and Master" in all the duties of life, and is, there fore, much respected and beloved. He is Deacon of the William Street Baptist Church, of which he has been a member forty-two years, and the fact that no stain rests upon his "fait name," is good proof of the earnestness of his piety. FREDERICK S. ALLEN -\ Was born in New Bedford, in 1812, and received the princi pal portion of his education in the New England Yearly Meeting Boarding School, in Providence. At the age of 14 years he went as clerk in a Commission House in Richmond, Va., where he remained two years, when ho returned to New Bedford, and was clerk for Gideon & Thomas Allen, 2d, for one year. Ho then acted as clerk for Dyer & Richmond two years, at the ex piration of which time he entered into a copartnership with Thomas C. Lothrop, which existed about two years. For tho last twenty-five years he has been engaged in the ship chandlery business with Jireh Swift, Jr., at their present location. This is his third year in the Common Council, of which he is an, efficient and influential member. Mr. Allen is a gentleman of activo business habits, and is highly respected by the community in which he resides. Ho has an cxtensivo and valuable business, and is popular and successful as a merchant, He is self-possessed, cautious and prudent ; honest in his own convictions he is fear- loss in tho expressions of his opinions,and speaks out boldly the thoughts within him. . tf* s; 4 . 10 JOHN H. PERRY - • Was born in 1818, receiving his education at the Friends' Academy in this city, and at the Friends' Yearly Boarding School Jin' Providence R. I. At the age of sixteen years, he "gave up his books,"' and acted as clerk for Howland & Hussey some two years. He was then clerk for J. & T. Allen in the ship chandlery business for two years, at the expiration of which time he purchased the interest of J. Allen and the copartnership existed about three years. In 1843, he went into the shoe and leather business with S. M. Burbank. In 184G, sold out his interest to Jacob S. Parker. In 1847, he went into the coal business foot of Walnut street, also the grocery and provision business. In 1850 he associated himself with' George Wilson, carrying on the several interests of the Paint Mill, the coal business and Trucking, a line which Mr. Wilson perfectly understands. Mr. Perry has always been a discerning, frank, generous hearted member of this community, and, stands high in the estimation of his fellow citizons. Perry & Wilson own the Parker House, and in 1857 & 8, Mr. Perry took the supervision of this hotel during tho crisis, feeling and knowing that something should be done to raise the, standard of hotel life in this section of the State. Under his auspices it was conducted in the same manner that he conducts all things— well. '¦' r > SAMUEL b! COGGSHALL ' Was born in New Bedford, on "Johnny Cake Hill," in 1809, where his father lived and also his grandfather. He fulfilled a portion of PollocR's poem as you will perceive above. At the age" of thirteen years, embarked in tho merchant service going two voyages, arid; doubling the number in the whaling sorvice. Was iii the ship Chandlery business with R. A. Palmer from 1833 to 87, after which for consecutive eight years he was in the whalo fishery, commander of ships Midas, and Stephenia. In 1849 California claimed his attention. Like his father and his grand father and the generations which have preceded him, now buried •up; ho has ever boon an intelligent ship master. San Francisco, China, Calcutta, Rusria, and Prussia, he has visited, and under stands tho main street in Loudon, as well as New Bedford. 10 MORRILL RORINSON, Jn. Son of Dr. Robinson, of Middleborough, was born in that town in 1831, and is, therefore 30 years old. , He fitted for College at Pierce Academy, five miles distant from tho paternal roof, a walk which he performed daily, morning and evening, for a period of about three years, in sunshine and storm, seldom missing a reci tation. . It was his intention to have entered Brown University, but circumstances altered his plans, and he graduated at the Classical School in Worcester, under the charge of Professor Burnett. To the thorough drilling he received in these two In stitutions, he attributes anything of success he has thus far achieved in life. Having the profession of the Law in view, he entered the offico of Everett Robinson, in Middleborough, where he remained some four months, and then came to New Bedford, and continued his preparation for the Bar with Judge Colby, whom he considers was tho ablest lawyer and most accomplished scholar that ever claimed a residence in our city. Under his instruction he feels that he learned more than from any one else. Subsequent to which, he was in tho office of T. G. Coffin several months, but completed his studies with his brother, T. D. Robin son, with whom ho is now associated in business, having been admitted to practice at the April term of the Court of Common Pleas, at Plymouth, in 1855. Thby hare two offices — one in New Bedford and the other in New York — the subject of this sketch having charge of the office in this city. When he first commenced his professional career, he was a stranger to almost the entire population among whom he had come to seek patron age and support ; and yet, without the aid of wealth or powerful friends, Iris talents did not long remain unknown or unapprecia ted. Relying on his own resources, and conscious that he must be tho architect of his own fortune, lie has devoted all the powers of his mind to the business entrusted to his care, and thereby has secured a large and constantly increasing practice. Naturally ar dent and enthusiastic, he readily enters into the feelings alid views of his clients ; and the zeal with which he urges their claims and defends their rights inspires them with great confidence in him as a professional advisor. Ho is a safe and valuable. Counsellor ¦ but his varied powers are best displayed' in trials before a jury. l> 17 Here his quickness of apprehension, clear perception and grasp of thought has full play. Ho possesses great skill in so present ing tho facts of his cases to the jury as to make them tell in the manner ho wishes, and produces the effect he designs. He is always strong, powerful and logical, and when the occasion de mands, truly eloquent. We are of the opinion that Mr. Robin son's ability far1 surpasses his reputation, ha-ving never been known to make effort where he did not exceed the expectations of his friends. His father, Dr. Robinson, has an extensive prac tice in Middleborough. Unlike other physicians he cures their maladies, but rarely presents a bill, going to the couch ofthe sick as to the bedside of a friend. Mr. Robinson is a faithful friend, but an implacable enemy. A man of his ability and generosity, always "scares up" personal enemies, who are always On the alert simply from a matter of jealousy, to "thrust and cut" all they can. Notwithstanding all the abuse and obloquy that have been heaped upon him, he stands fearless, like an honest man among his detractors and maligners, and we predict if his life is spared ten years longer, he will be ranked among the most dis tinguished lawyers in the State. JOHN A. WOOD Claims Dartmouth as his birth-plaoe, where ho was bora in 1816. At the age of 17 he left school and went as an appren tice in the carpentering business with Billings Con-, in New Bedford, with whonr^ho remained until he was 21, when he worked as journeyman four months, and then kept a victualing establishment, foot of Union street, some two years, since which time he has been engaged in tho grocery business, on Union street, twenty years, fifteen of which he has been at his present location. This is his first year as Councilman, but he discharges tho duties pertaining to the office with promptness and fidelity. Mr. Wood is an intelligent and much respected citizen, and is distinguished for correct business habits and integrity. Habitua ted to economy in his youth, ho is still of that turn, yet without narrowness or parsimony. 18 ; J. G. W. POPE, , ,r f; Was born in Sandwich in 1813. At the age of fifteen years he went to Boston and engaged in the book store of N. S. Simpkins, & Co. Court street. Then went with Charles Elms on the same street in the same business. Next werit'witli David ; Felt eighty-two State 6treet, where he was stationed in the stationary business about two years. In 183G, he came to New' •Bedford and commenced tho same business in company with C; O. Bartlett. At the1 expiration of which time lie entered into the dry goods business with A. H. Potter corner of Cheapside and Union streets, with whom he continued about two ycarsj and in 1850 entered into a copartnership with William S. Cobh This is the second term Mr. Pope has been called reluctantly into the Council Chamber. His intelligence and sound sterling > Common sense make him a useful member of this, branch. Mr. Pope is, and ever has been, an active, useful citizen, and the varied associations that ho has had in this city and elsewhere has gained him a wide circle of friendship.,. >- !¦ WILLIAM G. TABER, Was born in New Bedford in 1821. Got a good education at Friends' Academy in this city under David Mack, onb of the' most accomplished scholars that ever came to and went /roni New Bedford, Some of the men now standing in high and responsible positions, remember Mr. Mack with a sensible interest Application, and diligence are among Mr. Taber's chief charac teristics. In his classes it was his constant endeavor "to stand well." At the age. of twenty-one,' ho connected himself with Henry Tabor & Co. and tho copartnership still continues. .Mr!'' Taber has been in the Council five -years, and is as well posted in Municipal affairs, probably, as any man in that branch of the Government. In the matter of Steam Engines he took an especial interest, being the the first to introduco tho Order, and the strongest to carry it through. 19 CORNELIUS HOWLAND, Jr. ' 'Cornelius Howland Jr., is a member from Ward Five. The fact that four gentlemen of the name of, Howland have at this time seats in the City Council is significant of the high regard in which the wide spread branches of this family are held. . Three of them are from Ward Five. Few members of that body have been more? usefulLy active in the discharge of their public duties than Capt. Howland. For many years he was a highly esteemed and successful ship master, and since his retirement from the sea has been a merchant universally honored and esteemed. Capt Howland brought into the Council of the City that sagacity, perseverance and unquestioned integrity wliich had been his companion through life. Where qualified he has been a most valuable servant of the city. In the great work of revolutioniz ing, our Fire Department, he performed a prominent part, and now is receiving the thanks of all good citizens for that practical sagacity which at once saw the importance and practicability of the measure, and that unyielding firmness which enabled him to overcome the formidable opposition which it encountered. In the measures which have been found necessary for our harbors defense; Capt. Howland has shown himself a useful and zealous servant of the public. The Home Guard owes many of its comforts and much of its efficiency to his unwearied efforts. Capt Howland is about 59 years of age, and although his health is somewhat impaired, a firm constitution, an heir-loom in the Howland race, will, wo .trust, preserve him to us for many years. < nENRY F. THOMAS ,* Was born in Portsmouth, R L in 1824. Worked on his father's farm until he was 14 years old, and then came to New Bedford and engaged as clerk for Joseph Dunbar & Co., No 9 Middle street When he was 21 years old ho was admitted as partner, tho copartnership continuing until 1850, when he took tho business himself and has continued in the same business at the same store ever since. In the fall of 1853 ho was elected a member of tho Legislature, and the same honor was conferred 20 upon him in 1855. Was a member of the Common Council in 1855, '58, '59, *G0, & '61. Mr. Thomas is a man of excellent abilities, extraordinary perseverance, prompt, energetic, and "up to the mark" in whatever he undertakes. Chimoras ho does not, nor wishes not to understand, but deals with the actual, the real, the substantial. Unaided and relying on his own resources he has risen from a farmer's boy to an enterprising merchant with a competency. For generosity, public spirit and good feeling, ho has but few superiors, which have gained him a wide circle of friends and a large share of public esteem and affection. His word is better than most bank notes for whatever he tells you he means. He is a kind son, a faithful husband, an affectionate father, with hosts of friends, being a friend to all, an enemy to none. Mr. Thomas evinces a' commendable military spirit, and wo predict if the Confederate States should land on our shores they would find that Company A, of the Home and Coast Guard, of, which' he is Commander, would give them a warm reception. EBEN PERRY, ¦.- -';;,:¦ «.'¦ -¦:' ¦ ' ¦-¦?>¦.>,.- Son of Jireh Perry, who was one of pur most influential citizens, claims his pedigree from a long lino of worthy ancestors. He was born in 1823, and during the administration of David Mack and Rev. J. V. Bean at the Friends' Academy, fitted for College, and was a member of Harvard University.) He then went to Philadelphia, where he remained four years, the firm being' Campbell & Perry. In 1848, he returned to New Bedford and took an interest in his father's business, and after his death forriied a copartnership with William C. N. Swift, his brother in law, which still exists. This is the second year Mr. Perry has been called upon to serve in the Council Chamber, and we are happy to say he sustains himself well, and his constituents are hi every way satisfied with his sorvices. Mr. Perry is a man of sound judgment, tact, and a most excellent ability for business, and with these qualifications ho has amassed a larger competency than most mon of his age havo been able to acquire, aud tho largo circle of friends which ho has gathered around him is good evidence that ho is much respected by all those knowing him best esteem ing him most. > \ 21 HIRAM WEBB, } Son of tho Rev. Daniel Webb (now of Barnstable) was born in Newport R. L, in 181G. He came to New Bedford at the age of 16, scrying as an apprentice to Dyer & Richmond about one year ; but this branch of business not suiting his taste he relin quished it and went to Wilmington N. G, as clerk for George R. French of that place, distinguishing himself for application to business and a commendable talent .-Having returned to New Bedford he served as book-keeper until 1836. Was then employed as an accountant by Hon. E. Sawin of Fairhaven, with whom ^c remained several years. In 1846, he associated himself in business in New Bedford under the stylo of Reed & Webb. Energetic and enthusiastic, as ho naturally is, the ' first note of news from California arrested his attention "and off he went" to embark to make his fortune if he possibly could in El Dorado. He was one of the most efficient and prominent men on the Vigilance Committee in that now flourishing city of the Pacific, and his reputation for smartness has never been disputed there or here. At the time of the "general breaking, out" he was chosen Commander of the Executive Guards, a position which he sustained with great tact and a good judgment. Mr. Webb is a firm, efficient, intelligent and enter prising citizen and his services have been, and are now highly appreciated by his fellow citizens. He came from worthy stock, being a son of the oldest, active Methodist preacher in the world. He retains many of tho virtues and personal characteristics of his father, is an unwavering friend, and prides himself upon being an unwavering Democrat of the Douglas school. HIRAM VAN CAMPEN. Was born in Allegany Co., N. Y.,in 1816. Leaving school, he learned the trade o£ carriage maker, and on becoming of ago Commenced prcacliing in connection with the Universalist de nomination. Tho first parish over which he had the pastoral ovorsight was in Cato, N.Y. Subsequent to which ho officiated as preacher in tho following places in that Slate, Phounix, Mexico, 22 Portageville, Gainsvillc, and Middleport; In 1850, lie moved to Rockport Mass., where ho remained about a year, and then cama to New Bedford, occupying the Univcrsalist pulpit about 2 years, at which time ho resigned,, the cause of which was tho increase in the insurance business, in which ho commenced in 1852, This is the business now pursued by Mr. Van Campen, and such has been his promptness and fidelity to the interests of his patrons that each year has found it greatly enlarged, so that now he is considered one of the most reliable and judicious insurance agents in this section of the State. As a preacher, he was noted for soundness and solidity, rather than brilliancy, and sought to convince the mind more than to move the passions..?, In all his appointments he proved acceptable, and his name is a praise among all the churches of his denomination. He was Alderman during the administration of Geo. II. Dunbar, aud has bden twice elected Common Councilman. He is, a bold advocate of the temperence cause and is now Grand Worthy, Patriarch of the, 8. of T. of Mass., Mr. Van Campen is a man of strong mind and solid common sense, possessing a judgment, that, seldom errs, and a resolution that rarely yields. CHARLES IL'SANFORrJ,' •l' Was born in New Bedford, in 1832. He was, educated at the public schools and graduated at the High School with honor in 1817 having pursued his studies with marked application, and deported himself in a manner highly satisfactory to his instructors. Leaving this institution he wont as clerk to John II. Perry, for a year and a half, after which ho was with William F. Drown, five years. In 1857, his valuable services were solicited at the Now1 Bedford Flour Mills, whore he has since been filling a responsible situation to tho entire satisfaction of all concomed. . This is tho first year Mr. Sanford has been called to servo in the Govern ment, and we are happy to say his constituents are abundantly satisfied with his acts Mr. Sanford is a young man of marked activity, sound integrity and most oxoollent abilities, and, wo are glad to find him in the councils of tho city, whore' wc hopo ho may long remain. ; ';-' - : '¦' ' '-": "'¦} ' ' ••' ¦' f: v. : -/-"-; 23 J."AUGUSTUS broavnell, ', Son of Joseph Brdwncll, was born in New Bedford in 182!)< Went through the High School but completed his studies at tho East Greenwhich Seminary R. I., in 1846. He then entered the store of Charles Almy, where he remained three years. In 1849, ho went as an , apprentice to his father, serving until he was 21, when he associated himself in business with his father and Joshua B- Ashley. Joseph Brownell retired in 1856, and the firm subse quently has been under the name of Brownell, Ashley & Co. This is his second year in the Council. His father was in this brancli four years and in the Board of Aldermen one year. Mr. 'Brownell is a young man of more than an ordinary share of ability and intelligence, and gives promise of great usefulness. Ho is a wide-a-wake fellow, full of enterprise and perseverance, believing that a nimble leg makes more money than a lazy one. .PAUL HOWLAND .'- , ,' , "' Was born in Dartmouth, m'181'3. At the age of 15, he came to Now Bedford as an apprentice to Charles M. Pierce, in thb masonry business. On arriving at age, he worked as journeyman several years. In 1838, he took up his residence in Mobile, where he sojourned about 3 years and transacted business on his own account. He returned to Now Bedford, in 1841, where he has since resided doing business in his own name. Rickctson's Block, Fifth strcot School IIouso, aud the Tannery woro built by him, in company with Gideon Sawyer, Mr. Howland has also built some of our finest private residences, aud as a mechanic stands in the front rank in his line of business. Ho can figure as close and do the work as well and handsomely as any other man. Mr. Howland is a plain, sound discriminating man, and sustains jjn excollent reputation in the community. GEORGE F. KINGMAN, Was bora in Marshfield, in 1822, and was educated nt Frankliu Academy, Franklin, Norfolk Co., whore he was remarked for his good scholarship and correct deportment and 24 habits. Ho came here in 1840, as clerk for Enoch Horton in tho dry goods business for ono year, with Palmer & Kollock 3 years, ' and James H. Coggshall in tho ship chandlery business a yoar. In 1845, he formed a copartnership with John W. Sullings, and thoy located themselves at 1 23 Union st where they now are, pursuing a large and profitable business. Having a retiring disposition, Mr. Kingman has never courted office, but has been satisfied with tho consciousness of discharging his business duties well, and the enjoyment of his friends in private circles. He is a young man of commendable perseverance and marked application, whereby he has secured a competency which but few men of his age have the ability aud fixedness of purpose to acquire. GEORGE R. TABER. The above individual, Common Councilman, desired not to have his name mentioned in this book, as he did not wish to make himself illusU'ious. The writer complies with his request and leaves him out. With the exception of one, (the subject of this notice) I have received tho most encouraging sympathy and approxal in the effort which has been made. t. 42 Wholesale and Retail' Dealer in Foreign and Domestic ti Ixrtsr Country Produce, «&o., @® mm ©!»©©% NEWiBEDFORD, MASS.