Barnstable County, Massachusetts - Town of Provincetown, 1890 (part 2 of 2)

The third meeting house was long known as the " Old White Oak." At a meeting of the town November 15, 1792, it was voted to build a meeting house, and " to set it near north meadow gut." This proposed location was on the margin of a creek running through the beach at the foot of Gosnold street. Following nearly the line of this street to its junction with Bradford street, it flowed easterly and northerly, washing the base of High Pole hill and adjacent territory south - extending as far as the rise of ground north of the Center school house and beyond the railroad station. Persons living have heard aged residents relate incidents of their crossing this creek inboats whose use was indispensable while the tide was in. It wasthe practice to float scows and boats laden with salt grass from the meadows through this " gut" and to make it into hay on its borders, called " the north meadow."

It was also voted that the meeting houses should " be sold in forty shares, that any of the inhabitants of the town should have the liberty to subscribe for building said house and that the pews in the new meeting house should go to the highest bidder at a public vandue." Public notice announced that subscribers would be called upon to pay down twenty-five dollars per share. January 30, 1798, it was agreed by vote " that the subscribers who built the meeting house should set it near Rev. Samuel Parker's residence." Mr. Parker's residence was on the lot now covered by St. Peter's Catholic church, and the meeting house was erected east of Mr. Parker's dwelling, and on the premises now occupied by the Catholic parsonage. A full share of stock in the new meeting house cost £7, 10s., and a half share £3,

15s. Thirty-four full shares and twenty half shares were readily sold, amounting to ;f300, and a subscription by the town, increased the total to ;^400. The highest price was $186, paid by Elijah Nickerson, for No. 20 pew.

The frame of this church was hewn from white oak trees cut in Provincetown woods, and hence the name, " White Oak Meeting House." A portion of this frame, still sound and bright, was used in the construction of the present Congregational church in 1843.

In 1807 the interior of the White Oak church was remodeled at considerable expense to the town and four new pews added to those in the body of the house. These were sold to the highest bidders at the following prices: No. 37 for $190 to Samuel Cook; No. 88 for $350 to Jonathan Cook; No, 39 for $342 to Solomon Cook; and No. 40 for $176 to Stephen Nickerson; the highest not since equaled at any sale of pews in Provincetown. It was the most costly structure, public or _ private, that had been reared in town, its architecture and adornment indicating a desire to impress and please the beholder.

As the meeting house was still the only place of assembly provided, not only for public worship and for religious instruction, but was also the only forum for the discussion and disposition of all social, municipal, civil and political affairs, its maintenance was esteemed a matter of first importance in the welfare of the whole community. About this historic .church, therefore, were centered the dearest hopes, the social and religious sentiments and associations in its life. It was here infants were baptized, the last rites over the dead pronounced, and here, too, the intention of marriage, conspicuously announced, was consummated by celebration of the marriage ceremony.

The Old White Oak church is still remembered by the elder natives of the town with sentiments of veneration, connecting by association their own lives with those of former generations who once joined them in worship beneath its roof. It is remembered, too, that the seats of the large square pews, hung upon hinges, were turned up during prayer and turned down at its close; that it was the delight of the boys in the galleries, despite the menace of tything men armed with long poles, to throw the seats down with a bang that startled the congregation; an annoyance finally ended by enforcing the vote of the town to nail down the seats.

Rev. Jeremiah Cushing, mentioned at page 962 as the first resident preacher here, was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Spear. Rev. Spear was born July 6, 1696, a graduate of Harvard College in 1715, and began his pastorate about 1719, and continued until 1741, when large numbers of his parishioners removing to other localities he also went away. Among those who supplied the pulpit for limited

Their successor, Rev. Samuel Parker, was born in Barnstable in 1741, graduated from Harvard 1768, and came to Provincetown in 1773. The town and parish meeting on December 7, 1773, " agreed by vote to give unto Mr. Samuel Parker for his regular salary £6Q, 13s. 4d., lawful money to settle in this town and preach the Gospel to the inhabitants, also to give unto him the frame of his house and to build one-half of it purposed to be thirty feet in length, twenty-seven feet wide, eight feet in the walls, likewise his fire wood and to give him meadow for two cows." In addition to the salary thus stipulated the general court contributed forty-five pounds annually for twelve years from May 1, 1772. Mr. Parker was installed January 20, 1774. Entering upon his charge at the age of thirty-two years his attainments, his assiduity and cheerfulness in discharge of his religious and secular duties, and the exercise of a tolerant and kindly spirit, acquired for him the confidence and attachment of the town. His April 11, 1811, was therefore felt as both a personal and public loss.

The advent of Methodism into the parish in the latter part of Mr. Parker's ministry was undoubtedly to him a source of grief and agitation, embittering his last days. After the first furious storm of opposition and persecution, raised by a portion of his own parish, against the new and aggfressive sect, had subsided, he saw his flock divided and large numbers deserting to the new fold. So great was the defection that the Methodists in 1810, carried a vote in town meeting placing Alexander McLain, a Methodist minister, "in control of Mr. Parker's pulpit " unless he was able to oflBciate. This action was later requited by the persistent refusal of a Methodist selectman and " keeper of the meeting house key " to open its doors to a regularly warned town meeting, which, after being called to order upon the platform in front of the church, was adjourned to Thomas Rider's store, where the town's business was transacted. The possession of the meeting house was restored to the town only through re.sort to threats of legal process. The strife, long continued, shows that the spirit of retaliation and intolerance was not confined to the ^adherents of either side to the religious controversy.

Rev. Nathaniel Stone, born in Dennis, graduated at Harvard in 1795, began his ministry to the old society March 17, 1813. His installation took place October 16, 1817.

Mr. Stone's reputation, and discourses that survive, indicate menial ability and respectable professional acquirements. But dcgmatic and narrow in his views, he was from natural bent a strict believer in the doctrines of Calvin, and conscientiously accepted their logical sequence. His obstinacy and irascibility of temper, nevertheless, proved as disastrous to the society as they were destructive of his own peace and welfare. A preacher of a different mould would, indeed, at this crisis, have encountered serious difiSculty in allaying discontent and in arresting the exodus from the old church. National independence had awakened throughout the country enlarged views of church polity and creed. It was held that taxation without consent of the taxed was not longer to be tolerated in church or state. Hence hatred of compulsory assessment exacted for the support of thi.s tcciety, and the allurements of a freer faith were elements Mr. Stone was singularly ill qualified to overcome. The excitement produced by frequent desertions of his parishioners to the Methodists induced him to frequently preach about it, when he was wont to turn over the leaves of his sermon with his nose. When defections and refusal to longer attend his Sunday service had suggested to his friendly supporters the wisdom of terminating his pastorship, he refused point blank to listen to any proposal for resignation, or for accommodation of the terms of his settlement. Failing at last, in 1830, to obtain hearers, the old White Oak meeting house closed its doors, and its society, with which the history of the town was from its birth identified, became extinct. Mr. Stone remained in town until 1837, when he removed to Maine, where he died.

In 1841 another Congregational society was organized, and in 1842 measures were begun for building the church in which this society now worships. Rev. Calvin White officiated during this period. Rev. Mr. Eastman followed, and was settled in 1843. The church having been completed, he preached in it the first sermon September 13th of that year. Rev. Osborn Myrick, while in charge of a society in North Truro, was, by unanimous vote, invited to become pastor of the Congregational church in Provincetown November 24, 1845. Accepting the invitation, then a young man, a good scholar, an excellent teacher and of gentle bearing, he earnestly devoted himself to the work of his new pastorate. Identifying himself with all the legitimate interests of the community, whose improvement in secular as well as religious affairs he was ever ready to advance, he won its entire confidence and esteem, which he retained unabated, when, February 27, 1866, after a pastorate of twenty-one years, he tendered his resignation, and removed to Middletown Springs, Vermont, where he still resides.

dist Episcopal society. It encountered furious opposition and persecution. The town had that year voted that a Methodist meeting house should not be built in Provincetown. Timber and lumber designed for a meeting house had been unladen from a vessel upon the beach. The night following the landing an enraged mob, after cutting the timber in pieces and transporting it upon their shoulders to the rear of High Pole hill, set fire to it and crowned the blazing pile with the effigy of the Methodist minister, Jesse Lee. A short time after, however, John Kenney, Samuel Atwood and twenty-eight other respectable and prominent citizens, adopted without opposition, in -open town meeting, the following: " This is to certify that John Kenney and (others named to the number of 28) attend the public worship of God with the Methodists and contribute for their support."

Enraged by the assault upon their rights and convictions, and by the wanton destruction of their property, the Methodists lost no time in procuring another frame and more lumber, and the house was built without further demonstrations of violence. It was a one-story building about forty by thirty feet, constructed and finished in the primitive Methodi.st style, without plaster or paint on the interior.

The fifth church was built by the Methodist society in 1817 and enlarged the same year. It occupied the site on which stands the homestead of Dr. Henry Shortle, at the corner of Bradford and Ryder streets. This was a large building, having the first spire and first church bell in this place. It was superseded in 1847 by the erection of another house of worship, in front of High hill, on lots now covered, in part, by the skating rink and the building of Joshua T. Small, fronting Ryder street. This church contained 136 pews on the floor, with seating for 1,200 persons. It was occupied until 1860, when the present Center Methodist church was erected at a cost of $23,000.

Distinguished among the early settled preachers in the long succession of clergymen who have ministered to this society was Alexander McLain. He was here in 1807 and later. There are living a few of those who were of his congregation, and who yet distinctly remember his person and his preaching. They represent him as of a noble figure and presence and as endowed with a dramatic power and a pathos that were irresistible. Of the preachers of later date there are many who became noted in their denomination and whose memory is revered by the members of this society.

The list of preachers and date of coming is as follows: George Cannon, 1795; Robert Yallalee, 1796; Jacob Ricklow, 1797; Smith Weeks, 179S; William Beaucamp, 1799; John Merrick, 1800; Solomon Langdon, 1801; Edward Whittle, 1802; Allen H. Cobb, 1803; Alfred Metcalf, 1804; Philip Munger, 1805; Elijah Williard, 1806; Alexander

The First Unitarian society was organized in 1829, in " Enos Nickarson's School House." This society, the year it was organized, changed its name to "First Christian Union Society," which it retained upon its records until 1847, when by vote it was called, what in fact it had been since 1835, the First Universalist society. The first settled pastor, 1830, was Asahel Davis, Unitarian, who removed from Portsmouth, N. H.

A church for this society was built by Joseph Fuller and Thomas Lothrop, contractors, for $3,105, land and other items increasing the cost to $4,825, and was dedicated November 3, 1830, upon the premises where the dwelling of Abner B. Rich now stands. The second Universalist church, now standing, was erected in 1847.

Of these clergymen several, especially John B. Dods. exhibited good preaching ability, were impressive speakers and devoted to their calling. Replying to an invitation received at the end of his first year's engagement. Rev. Dods informs the society he will remain another year for $600, the sum received for the first year's service, and then states to the parish committee: "You mention to me that ' $800 would not separate us.' But that is a sum I have not the conscience to ask, nor would I accept it if it were freely offered, as I have no use for so much money annually. I was fearful that even $600 was more than the society could conveniently pay, and had therefore made up my mind to leave here the end of June." Mr. Dods' family at that time consisted of a wife and five children.

The second Methodist church, known as the Wesleyan chapel, was the house originally erected by the Christian Union Society, already noticed. It was purchased in 1848, by Freeman Atkins, Samuel Soper and Rufus L. Thatcher, a committee representing Methodists living in the west part of the town, who desired a place of worship nearer their residences. The church was remodeled and refurnished soon after its purchase, when ninety-five members withdrawing from the Centre church, joined the new society and worshiped in this church. Centenary church was erected and completed in 1866, under the pastorate of Rev. George W. Bridge.

The list of pastors of Centenary church, with year of their coming, is as follows: Samuel Fox, 1848; Azariah B. Wheeler, 1849; John Livesay, jr., 1851; Josiah Higgins, 1853; N. P. Philbrook, 1855; B. K. Bosworth, 1857; J. T. Wright, 1859; Mr. Cooper, 1861; J. F. Sheffield, 1863; George W. Bridge, 1865; George M. Hamlen, 1867; Shadrach Leader, 1868; Andrew J. Kenyon, 1870; John Livesay, 1872; William McK. Bray, 1872; George A. Morse, 1874; George H. Bates, 1877; George W. Hunt, 1880; John H. Allen, 1882; Warren Applebee, 1884; George C. King, 1885; Thomas J. Everett, 1887; Samuel McBurney, from April. 1889. This list embraces men of acknowledged ability and worth, and who were devoted to the care of their charge.

The Catholic society was organized by Rev. Joseph M. Finotti in 1851. The first service was held in the dwelling of Thomas Welch, on Franklia street, previously known as the Freeman House. A Sunday school was early begun by Jeremiah Quean with three pupils, and now numbers over five hundred. In 1853 Mr. Finotti bought the building on Bradford street, formerly called the Wesleyan Academy, and subsequently occupied by the town high school, for a place of worship and pastoral residence. Public services were held in this building until the purchase, in 1872, of Adams Hall, by Father O'Conner, for the sum of $4,500. The society worshiped here for nearly two years when, March 4, 1875, it was destroyed by fire during a terrific northeast snow storm, in which the Italian bark Giovanni was stranded on the outer bar off Peaked hills, and all the crew save one perished. The present house of worship - St. Peters church - located on the north side of Prince street, was consecrated October 12, 1874. A fine parsonage was added to the church estate in 1886.

This society when established was principally composed of natives of Ireland and their children. A very large majority of those now comprising its membership are of Portugese birth and descent. There is a larger regular attendance at this church than is present at any other place of worship in town. The following priests have officiated as pastors: Father Joseph M. Finotti, 1851; Father Haly, Father Cornelius O'Conner, 1860; Father McGough, 1873; Father McGuire, 1874;

Schools. - Allusion has already been made to the application of the revenue from the Cape fisheries to the support of schools. The first reference in the early records to schools at Provincetown is the entry in 1728 upon the town records; "Mr. Samuel Winter's account for keeping school one half year, £'22. 10." His compensation for the remaining half year appears to have been £22, 13. The first record, however, is almost the only reference to schools that appears upon the town books for a hundred years. A town school was certainly kept from the very beginning of the settlement. In 1801, during an epidemic of smallpox, the schools were closed by vote of the town. In 1807 it is certain that the town school occupied a portion of a building jointly with a Masonic lodge. In 1886 six hundred dollars were appropriated for common schools; in 1837 the amount was increased to seven hundred dollars, and in 1840, to one thousand dollars. In 1844 the town erected, at a cost of ten thousand dollars, the three school houses which are still known as the Western, Eastern and Center school buildings. In 1853 thirty-one hundred dollars were appropriated for schools, six hundred dollars of which was for the support of a high school. The upper story of the town hall was used by the high school for many 5'ears until 1877. In 1879 and 1880 the present grammar and high school building was erected, at an expense of over ten thousand dollars.

In 1840 the number of school children between five and sixteen was 562; in 1890 the school children attending the public schools numbered 950, enrolled in seventeen schools, under the stipervision of twenty teachers. The amount of the annual appropriation for the public schools during the twenty years ending in 1890, though varying in amount from year to year, has averaged nearly ten thousand dollars yearly. The desire for good schools is universal, and every effort has been made by the citizens to supply the school officers with the necessary facilities. Since the abolition of the district system in 1870, the schools have been supervised by a committee, generally three in number, who have usually chosen a superintendent, who has the immediate care and responsibility of all the schools.*

The history of the town is incomplete without a brief notice of the men whose prudence, economy and foresight have contributed to its material wealth. To the energy and public spirit of her business men Provincetown owes much of the continued prosperity that has attended the town during many years. It is to be regretted that an even more extended sketch than that which follows cannot be devoted to an enumeration of the prominent business men of Provincetown, with the interesting facts relating to their early lives which might be gathered.

John D. Adams, son of William and Ellen (Darrow) Adams, was born in 1860. He has been in the drug business since 1876. In 1885 he succeeded Dr. J. M. Crocker. He remodeled his store in 1889. He married Jennie, daughter of James M. Holmes. They have three children: Charles W., Jennie W. and James H.

Marshal L. Adams, son of John and Abbie (Sampson) Adams, was born in 1842. He was a merchant for thirteen years prior to 1878. He was county treasurer one term - 1886 to 1888. He was chairman of the building committee- of the new town hall. He married Mary A. Moor, and has one son, John.

Mrs. Mary N. Adams is a daughter of Samuel andTamesin (Brown) Cook, and granddaughter of Samuel, who was a son of Solomon and grandson of Solomon Cook. Her first marriage was with John Adams, who died in 1860, aged forty-five years. Her present husband is Solomon N., son of George M. Adams.

William A. Atkins, son of Joseph and Ruth (Nickerson) Atkins, was born in 1818. His first marriage was with Abigail N. Freeman, deceased, and his second wife was Jane F. Grozier, also deceased. Mr. Atkins was for many years a member of the Central Wharf Company. The Central wharf and store were built in 1839 by Joseph Atkins, who with David Fairbanks conducted a general store for several years. His son, William A. Atkins, and Eben S. Smith, were then admitted to the firm. In 1851, upon the death of Joseph Atkins, William A. Atkins and Eben S. Smith who, after a brief absence (during which his place was filled by Thomas G. Atkins), had returned, continued together until 1858, when John Atwood purchased the business. In 1863 William A. Atkins again purchased an interest in the firm and with Eben S. Smith continued until 1864, when Nathan Young bought out William A. Atkins. Atkins Nickerson soon afterward acquired an interest. In 1867 Abner B. Rich succeeded Eben S. Smith; in 1875 James A. Small joined the firm, which has since carried on an extensive general store under the direction of Messrs. Young, Rich and Small, the present partners. For many years the Central and the Union wharf companies were the chief mercantile firms of the town, each owning many vessels employed in the various branches of the fisheries. With each wharf were connected blacksmith's shops, marine railways, ship carpenter's shops, and other facilities for the fitting and repairing of vessels. In recent years, however, the two wharf companies have lost much of their former prominence in the mercantile afiFairs of the town, though the two wharves are still the headquarters for very many of the fishing vessels sailing frcm Provincetown.

Nathaniel E. AtwooD.* - This highly esteemed and distinguished citizen of Provincetown was born September 13, 1807, and died at his residence, November 7, 1886. He was the son of John Atwood, a fisherman, who, like most of his contemporaries, was poor, and deprived of many of what are now esteemed the necessities, as well as of the conveniences of the household. As he could not afford a clock to tell the hour of the night when it was time to go fishing, it was his practice to repair to the shore and mark the position of the ebb or flood tide upon the beach, and thus determine the starting time. Not including provision for his schooling, the bare necessaries of life were all that could be furnished the son. Few more interesting or pathetic struggles for the rudiments of knowledge have been told of New England men than those he used to relate of his own experience. In 1816, to be nearer the fishing grounds, his father and family removed to Lx)ng point, taking the son with them - the first resident fisherman. Here, at the age of nine. Nathaniel E. began his calling, the father often taking the boy from his bed, at three or four in the morning, for a place in his fishing boat for the day, returning to do other requisite work at night.

Though possessing a natural bias for learning, no leisure, books or schooling could be afforded him. Occasionally, in short intervals of rest, upon returning to the shore the father, who could not read, but could cipher, drawing sums upon the smooth sand of the beach with a stick, gave the son the only lessons in arithmetic he ever received from a teacher. Despite, however, the absence of opportunity, he, by force of native ability and desire for improvement, acquired, not great scholarship, it is true, but an amount of learning and a knowledge of natural history that assured him a creditable position. As a practical ichthyologist, he not only long enjoyed a national reputation in his own country, but his name, in connection with this branch, has for many years been known by scientific men in Europe. At the age of thirteen, graduating from the fish boat, his father shipped him as cook on a fishing vessel for the coast of Labrador. Continuing those voyages, three years later he was trusted to ship himself in a vessel bound to the Grand Banks. Desirous of a change of occupation, he went several voyages as seaman, and subsequently as master in the coasting and foreign fishing trade. A superior navigator, a kind master, a careful, honest agent, he filled these positions efficiency and secured the confidence and esteem of his men and -By James Gifford, Esq.

employers. Returning to fishing, he continued in this calling till the age of sixty, twice encountering shipwreck during this period. Endowed with rare powers of observation, with a retentive memory and a temper favorable to study and investigation, he began in early manhood to acquire knowledge of the characteristics of the sea fishes.

In 1843, when Dr. D. Humphries Storer was pieparing his FisAes of Massachusetts, making inquiry for a fisherman who knew most about fishes on the coast, all concurred in referring him to Mr. Atwood. That this reference was fully justified, appears from the following extracts from the work cited: " During the last six or eight years no individual has rendered me such essential assistance as Captain N. E. Atwood, of Provincetown. * * * For much acceptable information respecting our marketable species I am indebted to him, the best practical ichthyologist in our state." In a subsequent report to the Boston Society of Natural History, he said: " Let his name, who has done so much to enable me to present this final report, be indelibly associated with the science to which he is an honor."

In 1852 Louis Agassiz, impressed with the value of Mr. Atwood's contributions to ichthyology, visited him in his home upon Long point, and there began an acquaintance that shortly ripened into an intimacy and life-long friendship. Their constant correspondence respecting fishes was continued through the professor's life. It was at his suggestion that Mr. Atwood was employed in the winter of 1868-9 to deliver a popular course of twelve lectures upon food fishes before the Lowell Institute of Boston.

In 1847 he was chosen a member of the Boston Society of Natural History. In 1866 he was appointed member of a committee to investigate the feasibility of the artificial propagation of inland fishes, and the same year was elected a member of the Essex Institute of Salem. He was subsequently chosen a member of the Institute of Technology in Boston, and of the American -Academy of Arts and Science.

In 1867, 1868, he was a representative to the legislature, and in 1869-1871 a member of the state senate, serving as chairman of the committee on fisheries. His opinions on matters pertaining to sea fisheries and requiring legislation were received as authority. He was therefore summoned before legislative committees in several states to give his views on pending measures. Candid and thoroughly informed, his judgment was generally accorded decisive weight. He was twice sent to Washington by his fellow-townsmen once to urge upon the war department the necessity of fortifying Provincetown harbor, and later to present the interests of the fisheries to the congressional committee on ways and means. For fifteen.

years prior to 1882 he was a faithful, diligent officer of the revenue in Provincetown. He was also one of the trustees of the Seamen's Savings Bank in Provincetown, and was three years member of the school committee. He was for many years associated with the United States fish commission, and rendered important services that were fully appreciated by that board. Of a serene, cheerful temper, unassuming in manner, charitable to faults, public spirited and benevolent, his whole career was characterized by unselfishness, gentleness and integrity that was unswerving. The death of no man in Provincetown, in this generation at least, produced more general or sincere regret. His character and memory are a legacy to the people of this town.

His first marriage was with Maria Smith of Sag Harbor, L. I. He settled in Provincetown, where Mrs. Atwood died in 1849. Their family of three sons and two daughters were: John E., who died at the age of twelve years; Nathaniel, now a resident of Medford, Mass.; Lydia F. (Mrs. William A. Doyle of Truro); Mary M., who married John Kiley, jr., of Truro and died leaving three children; and Daniel W. Captain Atwood married a second time Mrs. Blake of Boston, the mother of Prof. J. Henry Blake. By this marriage he had three children who reached maturity: Myrick C, of Provincetown, now collector of customs at that port; Maria L., w.idow of Arthur K. Crowell, and Priscilla S., now Mrs. Fish of Brockton.

Nathaniel, the oldest survivor, was born in 1839, and married Olive J., daughter of Nathaniel Hopkins of Truro. He was captain of a whaler eleven years, and for ten years in merchant service. Since 1882 he has been superintendent for Lyon, Dupuy & Co. of Boston, exporters to Hayti. Prior to 1882 he lived in Provincetown. He has one daughter and one son, Edward H. Atwood, the only male representative of the name in this generation.

Solomon Bangs, only living child of Solomon and Betsey (Rich) Bangs, and grandson of Perez Bangs, was born in 1821. He followed the business of sailmaking until 1882, and since that time has been weir fishing. He married Rosilla, daughter of Samuel and Thankful (Bangs) Rich. They have one son, Perez.

John Bell, son of Henry F. Bell, was born in Liverpool, England, in 1838. He followed the sea from 1851 until 1884, the last sixteen years as captain of a whaling vessel. He has lived in Provincetown since 1858. He married Zilpha, daughter of John and Zeruiah (Atkins) Knowles. They have one daughter. Angle.

Stephen Bennett, born in 1824, is a son of Robert Bennett. He came to Provincetown in 1842, where he was a rigger for several years. Since 1871 he has been engaged in the ice business. He handles about five thousand tons per year. He married Sarah M., daughter of Levi and Jerusha (Kilburn) Smith and granddaughter of Daniel Smith. They have two children - Samuel A. and Jerusha K. (Mrs. M. W. Bradshaw). One daughter, Melissa F., died.

John M. Carnes, born in Boston in 1816, is a son of David and Betsey (Rich) Carnes. He came to Provincetown in 1824 and followed . the sea until 1849, when he went to California, returning in 1862, since which time he has been a farmer. He married Eunice C, daughter of Josiah and Sally (Smith) Doane, and granddaughter of Joshua Doane.

Josiah Chase, son of Josiah and Lucy (Wheldon) Chase, and grandson of Josiah Chase, was born at Harwich in 1849. He has followed the sea since he was nine years old, as master since 1867, fishing and coasting. October 8, 1889, with a crew of seven men, he started for Cape Town, Africa, with the hope of finding new fishing grounds. Captain Chase is still at Cape Town. He has found mackerel there andhis voyage will be fairly successful. He married Amelia, daughter of William Doyle. Their three children are: Bessie A., Anna G. and Josiah I.

Henry T. Chipman, son of Thomas and Permelia (Horton) Chipman, was born in 1850. He began going to sea at the age of ten years, and has been ten years master of vessels in menhaden fishing.

Isaac Collins, born in 1823 in Truro, was a son of Michael and Tamesin (Snow) Collins and grandson of Benjamin Collins. He married Mrs. Matilda H.' Nickerson, daughter of Levi,' and Mehitabel (Lombard) Stephens, granddaughter of Levi,' (Richard," Richard Stephens'). They have one son, Isaac S. Mr. Collins, as shipwright and spar maker, began business in Truro in 1867. In 1864 he removed to Provincetown, establishing himself at Central wharf. Upon his death in 1889, Ezra D. Ewen succeeded to the business.

David Conwell, son of David and Eleanor (Perry) Conwell, and grandson of Robert Conwell, was born in 1818. He was a house carpenter by trade, but has been in mercantile and wholesale fish business since 1848. He represented this district in the legislature in 1888 and 1889. He married Elmina, daughter of Amasa Taylor. She died, leaving four children: Eleanor B., Walter L., Robert E. and Amasa F.

Robert E. Conwell, son of David and Elmina Conwell, was born in 1853, and has been in business with his father since 1874. He married Ruth S., daughter of William Hedge.

Alfred Cook, born in 1816, is a son of Samuel and Tamesin (Brown) Cook, grandson of Samuel, great-grandson of Solomon, and greatgreat-grandson of Solomon Cook. He followed the sea from 1824 i until 1869, as master after 1838. For twenty-five years he was in whaling business. Since 1869 he has been engaged in the whaling and fishing business. He married Rebecca M. Bowley. She died and his second marriage was with Caroline Howard. His present wife was Mrs. Emily E. Chapel, daughter of William Law.

Charles A. Cook, born in 1822, is one of the children of Jonathan and Sabra (Brown) Cook, and grandson of Jonathan Cook. His first marriage was with Sarah Dunham,who died leaving one son, Jonathan Y. His second wife was Olive Atkins. They have five children: Charles A., jr., George P., Sarah (Mrs. H. P. Higgins), Angie (Mrs. J. W. Fuller) and Louise (Mrs. W. Williams). Mr. Cook began business in 1855, purchasing the wharf built by Jonathan H. Young, which he still owns. In early life Captain Cook commanded several packets that ran between Bo.ston and Provincetown. He was also largely interested in fishing vessels. In 1855 he established a grocery and outfitting store at 240 Commercial street, which he still continues with the assistance of his son, Jonathan, acting also as the agent of the schooners General Scott, Vandalia and John Simmons.

Emerson D. Cook, son of Lemuel and Mary J. (Weeks) Cook, grandson of David and great-grandson of Jonathan Cook, was born in 1860. He followed the sea from 1863 until 1884. He is now a blockmaker. He married Kathleen O. Lynch. The have one son living, Benjamin L., and one son that died.

Henry Cook, born in 1813, is one of twelve children of Samuel and Tamesin (Brown) Cook. He followed the sea from 1823 until 1850, as master sixteen years. Since 1850 he has been a merchant. He has been a director of the Provincetown National Bank since its establishment. He married Abigail, daughter of Elijah Dyer. They have one daughter, Adelaide O., the wife of A. Lewis Putnam.

James D. Cook was born in 1845 in North Scituate, Mass. His father and grandfather were both natives of North Scituate, Mass. He is engaged in prepairing and packing cod fish. He married Mary S., daughter of Joseph Thomas. Their children are: Chester A., Ebed E., Henry P., May W., Walter T. and James W. They lost three: Nellie M., John B. and Charles.

John J. Cook, youngest son of John and Martha (Bush) Cook, and grandson of John Cook, was bom in 1817. He followed the sea from 1826 until 1883, as master of whaling vessels after 1845. He is now engaged in the fish business with his son. He married Elizabeth S., daughter of William and Eliza S. (Kent) Taylor. Their children are: Emmie (Mrs. C. H. Holbrook), Lizzie K., Richard W. and Fred. They lost two: Martha E. and John J.

Daggett, was born in ]828 in Nova Scotia. He followed the sea for thirty five years, twenty-five of which he was in command of vessels. Since 18S5 he has been engaged in the fish business. He married Helen, daughter of John and Sally (Lancy) Snow. Their children are: Fred W., Allton L., Sarah S. and Cora N. One son, John L., died.

James Daggett, born in 1832, in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, is a son of Lathrop, and grandson of Ichabod Daggett, who was a native of Scituate, Mass., and removed to Nova Scotia. Mr. Daggett came to Provincetown in early life, where for forty years he has been engaged in fishing. He married Mary S., daughter of Atwood Snow. Their children are: Joseph A. and Frank E.

James Engles, born in 1827, was a son of James Engles. He was a tinsmith by trade, and kept a hardware store here until his death in 1887. Since that time his son, Herbert, has continued the business. His wife, Susan, died leaving four children: Francenia, Adella, Carrie and Herbert.

Silas D. Fish, born in Franklin, Conn., in 1823, is a son of Cook and Mary (Cook) Fish. He began at the age of twenty-two as brakeman on the railroad, and six years later he began to run a locomotive, and continued until 1886, since which time he has been in the Old Colony railroad shop. He has lived in Provincetown since 1873. He married Mary J., daughter of Job Courier. They have three daughters: Emma F., Viola D. and Estella F. They lost two daughters.

Jame^ Gifford, born here in June, 1821, is the youngest of the four children - who reached maturity - of Benjamin Gififord, a Quaker,who, about 1807, came to Provincetown from Rochester, Mass. James Gifford was whaling one voyage while a lad, but has during his whole life been closely identified with the business and public interests of this town. He has been two terms county commissioner and five years in the state legislature, and twenty-four years deputy collector of customs at Provincetown. He rebuilt "The Gifford House" in 1869.

Moses N. Gifford, son of James Gifford, was born June 11, 1848. He was married December 12, 1870, to Harriet P. Lovering of Georgetown, Mass. Their daughter is Fannie C. He is treasurer of Seaman's Relief Society and Provincetown Building Association.

Joseph S. Hatch, son of Joseph and Polly (Small) Hatch, was born in Truro in 1841. He is a sea captain in the fishing and coasting business. He married Josephine S., daughter of William and Sarah (Myrick) Holden, and granddaughter of William Holden. They have two daughters: Sarah M. and Annie W. Mrs. Hatch has kept a dry goods store since 1877.

John D. Hilliard, born in 1836, is a son of Jairus and Emily (Cook) Hilliard, and grandson of Thomas Hilliard. He married Rebecca H. daughter of Jonathan Hill. She died leaving three children: Nellie B., Alice S. and John D., jr. His second marriage was with Lizzie H., daughter of Phineas Paine. They have one daughter, Helen J. John W. Hilliard succeeded in 1880 to the wholesale fish business, begun in 1836 by Stephen Hilliard, who in that year opened a store for the sale of general merchandise. In 1840 Hilliard's wharf was erected. Stephen Hilliard afterward sold to Hilliard, Johnson & Co., who were succeeded by T. & J. H. Hilliard & Co. In 1859 Thomas Hilliard retired. The firm of Freeman & Hilliard succeeded and continued until 1880, when Nathan D. Freeman retired and John D. Hilliard continued the business.

Hiram C. Holmes, born in 1861, is a son of Hiram and Nancy (Avery) Holmes. Hiram Holmes came to Provincetown at the age of nineteen and followed the sea in fishing^ and whaling. He was twenty-five years captain of a whaleman. He kept a hardware store from 1865 until his death in 1888. Hiram C. continued the business until January, 1890, when he sold out to William C. Bangs and entered the firm of Wilcox, Crittenden & Co., manufacturers of marine and awning hardware at Middletown, Conn. Mr. Holmes is traveling for the firm. He was married January 16, 1890, to Mary E. Dyer of Provincetown. His two sisters, Susie P. and Hattie F. L., reside with their mother at Provincetown.

James P. Holmes, son of James M. and Salome C. (Soper) Holmes, and grandson of Nathaniel Holmes, was born in 1852. He was for about eight years on the steamer George Shattvck, then four years in Boston, and since 1880 he has kept a fruit and confectionery store at Provincetown. He married Sadie C, daughter of Thomas Lewis. They have one daughter living. Flora M. - and one died in infancy.

Nathaniel Hopkins, son of Isaac and Hannah (Rich) Hopkins, and grandson of Isaac Hopkins, was born in Truro in 1815. He followed the sea from 1823 until 1847, eleven years of the time as master. Since 1847 he has been a ship carpenter. He owns a controlling interest in the Union Marine Railway Company. He married Aphiah Snow, who died leaving four children, three of whom are now living: Olive J., Aphiah L. and Addie. His second marriage was with Mrs. Delia P. Paine, daughter of Benjamin Hinckley. She died and he afterward married Mrs. Margaretta E. Smith.

Philip R. Howes, born in Barnstable in 1852, is a son of Philip and Temperance B. (Ames) Howes, and grandson of Richard Howes. He has lived in Provincetown since 1873. He was express messenger on the railroad until 1888, and since that time he has been express agent

Hezekiah P. Hughes, born in 1839 at North Truro, is a son of John and Hannah (Paine) Hughes, and grandson of John Hughes. He was in the war of the rebellion from August, 1862, until June, 1F65, in the Third Massachusetts Cavalry. He was promoted to second lieutenant in September, 1864. He was keeper of Highland light for 3^ years. He was nine years bookkeeper for the Central Wharf Company, and since 1883 he has been a dry goods merchant in the Masonic Building. He married Orianna F., daughter of Edward Armstrong. Their only daughter is Anna M.

Sylvanus N. Hughes, born in 1820 in Truro, is the eldest son of James and Jane (Avery) Hughes, and grandson of John Hughes. He followed the sea from 1830 until 1886, after 1842 as master. He has lived in Provincetown since 1866. He married Mary S. Collins, who died, leaving one son, Cullen A. His second marriage was with Mrs. Hannah Sparrow.

Joseph P. Johnson, born in 1813 at Essex, Conn., was a son of John W. and Jerusha(Cary) Johnson. He came to Provincetown at the age of thirteen, and learned the trade of a sailmaker, at which he wrought for some time. He has been engaged in several other branches of business here. He served as moderator of town meetings twentyeight years, selectman several years, seven years as representative in the legislature, and two terms state senator. He was agent for the Massachusetts Humane Society for about twenty-five years, several years agent for the Boston Board of Underwriters, and is now a director in the Provincetown National Bank. His first wife, Polly Cook, died leaving no children. His second wife, Susan Fitch, died leaving two children: Mary C. and Susan E. His third wife, Mary Whorf, left three children: Josephine P., George F. and William W.

Samuel Knowles, a carpenter, born in Truro in 1831, is a son of John and Zeruiah (Atkins) Knowles, grandson of Samuel, great-grandson of John and great-great-grandson of Willard Knowles, born in 1712. He was in the war from July, 1862, until May, 1863, in Company A, Thirty-third Massachusetts Volunteers. He purchased in 1865 of JamesChandler the mail and stage route between Orleans and Provincetown. In 1873 he established a livery stable and grain store. Until 1888 he also acted as agent of the Cape Cod and New York and Boston Express Companies. He married Hannah E., daughter of Edward Larkin. Their children are: Emma B. and Carrie E., and one daughter, Virginia (Mrs. Joshua Atkins), who died leaving three children.

Mary (Snow) Lewis, grandson of Eleazer Lewis and great-grandson of George Lewis. He is a ship carpenter by trade, but for the last six years he has been engaged in driving artesian wells. He married Mehitabel F. Avery for his first wife. His second wife was Mrs. Mercy M. Hopkins, and his present wife was Mrs. Mary N. Hallett, daughter of Reuben Brown.

Isaac B. Lewis, born in 1831, is one of eleven children of Nathaniel, grandson of Eleazer, and great-grandson of George, who was a descendant of George Lewis. Isaac B. married Olive A. Baker, whc died leaving one son, Isaac W., who married Laura M. Freeman and has four children: Olsen E., Olive A., Nathaniel E. and an infant. Mr. Lewis married for his second wife Elizabeth A. Boothby. He has an adopted son, Ira A. Lewis. Mr. Lewis is engaged in weir fishing.

Thomas Lewis, son of Nathaniel and Azubah (Snow) Lewis, was born in 1834. He began going to sea in 1844, attained to master m 18.'54, and continued coasting and fishing until 1888. He married Flora A., daughter of John Coan. Their children are: John A.,. Thomas J. and Sadie C.

Adam Macool, born in Ireland in 1823, is a son of Robert and grandson of Adam H. Macool, both natives of Scotland. He came to this country in 1827, and in 1851 he came from Providence, R. I., to Provincetown, where he has since been a ganger and cooper. He is now agent for three whaling vessels. He began the manufacture of oil casks in 1868 near Atwood's wharf, where he has since carried on a flourishing business. He married Sarah Ross. They have had four children, all of whom died in infancy.

Joseph Manta, born in Portugal in 1843, is a son of Francis S. and grandson of Joseph S. Manta. He left home in 1854 and followed the sea from that time until 1876, when he started a grocery .store nearly west of the present wharf which he purchased six years later. He has since become extensively engaged in the wholesale fish businefs, acting as agent for several large schooners engaged in the fresh fish business. He married Phelomina Perry. They have had five children: Joseph, John and Philip, living; and Francis and Phelomina, deceased.

Duncan A. Matheson, born in Richmond county. Cape Breton, N. S., February 8, 1848, is a son of Donald and Flora Matheson. Donald Matheson was the son of Murdock and Anne Matheson, of Loch Alsh, Rosshire, Scotland. Flora Matheson was the daughter of John and Katherine Matheson, also of Loch Alsh, Rosshire, Scotland. Duncan A. came to Provincetown in September, 1872, and opened a shoe store. In 1881 he added a clothing department, and in October, 1884,.

opened a branch store at Wellfleet. In August, 1884, he married Irene P., daughter of William and Rebecca Bush, of Provincetown. They have one daughter, Rebecca Florence Matheson.

William Matheson, born in 1828, in Nova Scotia, is a son of Alexander Matheson. He came to Provincetown in 1848, and followed the sea from that time until 1879, fishing and coasting. He was master from 1853. He purchased in 1882 "Steamboat Wharf" where he conducts the wholesale fishing business, owning largely in fishing vessels, and affording employment to many men. His daughters, Mary S. and Jesse T. Matheson, occupy the building at the head of the wharf as a millinery store. He married Mary, daughter of John Matheson. Their children are: Lottie B. (Mrs. Angus McKay), Georgia D. (Mrs. Orrin Paine), Mary S., Jessie T., John A. and Lizzie W. They lost one infant son.

Edwin C. Mayo, born in 1835, was a son of Stephen and Jerusha (Sawtell) Mayo, grandson of Joshua and great-grandson of Thomas Mayo. He began going to sea in 1848, and from 1856 until 1887 he was master of vessels. From 1887 until his death in November, 1889, he was engaged in the wholesale fish business. He married Alexandrina Kemp, by whom he had three daughters: Ella M., Carrie E. and Almira C.

Roderick Mcintosh, born in 1845, at Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, is the seventh son of Roderick Mcintosh. He has lived in Provincetown since 1862, and since 1866 he has been master of vessels. He married Sarah, daughter of John Matheson. She died in 1885, leaving two sons: John A. and Daniel M.

Angus McKay, born in 1843, at Cape Breton, is a son of Alexander McKay. He came to Provincetown in 1875. He has followed the sea in the fishing business since sixteen years of age, and has been master since twenty-one years old. He married Lottie B. Matheson. They have three children: William A.. Cora S. and Osborn E.

Norman McKenzie, son of Donald McKenzie, was born at Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, in 1845, and came to Provincetown in 1867. Since 1871 he has been master of coasting and fishing vessels. He married Sarah, daughter of Hector McKinon. Their children are: Sadie M., Lorance N. and Maggie A. (deceased.)

Stephen Mott, son of Stephen Mott,was born in 1807 in Nantasket, Mass. He is a shipwright and caulker by trade. He came to Provincetown in 1843. He married Eveline Litchfield, who died in 1883, leaving two sons^ - Silas C. and Atwood.

Charles Nickerson, born 1807, died 1887, was a son of Enos and grandson of Seth Nickerson. He was a tailor by trade. In 1830 he began to engage in the " fishing business," a term which is frequently used to designate the various occupations connected with the prcsecution of the bank fisheries. He continued in active business until his death. He married Eleanor, daughter of Jesse and Thankful H. (Smith) Cook, and granddaughter of Samuel Cook. Their children were: Lucy M. and Ellen C, who died, and Emmie C, who now lives at the homestead with her mother.

Eldridge Nickerson, born in 1797, was a son of Seth, and grandson of Seth Nickerson. He was engaged iij fishing, and kept a small store on Long Point until 184B, when he came to the village where his daughters now live, and kept a store until his death in 1865. Since that time E. and M. Nickerson have continued to keep the store. He married Eunice Snow. Their children were: Eunice S. and Marinda J., and one son, who died in infancy.

Luther Nickerson, born in 1829, is a son of Stephen and Rebecca R. (Dyer) Nickerson, grandson of Stephen, and great-grandson of Seth Nickerson. He married Elizabeth Stickney, of New Hampshire. She died, leaving two children, Rebecca D. (Mrs. Jacob Rood) and Luther B.

Stephen T. Nickerson, oldest son of Stephen and Rebecca R. Nickerson, was born in 1824. He married Ruth S., daughter of Nathaniel and Ruth (Dyer) Covill. Luther and Stephen T. Nickerson succeeded to the business established by their father, Stephen Nickerson, and since 1854 have been engaged in the fisheries, owning extensive flake yards and valuable shore privileges.

Artemas Paine, born in 1815 and died in 1883, was a son of Lot and Olive (Nickerson) Paine. He kept a grocery and ship chandlery store for several years. He was selectman several years, and also president of a marine insurance company. He married Lucy J., daughter of Ebenezer and Temperance (Lewis) Lothrop, and granddaughter of Brigadier-General Ebenezer Lothrop.

James C. N. Paine, son of Lot and Olive (Nickerson) Paine, was born in 1818. He followed the sea from 1829 until 1867, several years as master of vessels. He married Lucy, daughter of David Ryder. She died, leaving one daughter, Lucy A. His second marriage was with Phoebe A., daughter of James T. and Louisa (Sparks) Cook. They have one daughter living, Louisa C, and one that died, Clara H.

Lysander N. Paine, the president of the Savings Bank, and a pros perous business man, is the junior partner of the firm of J. & L. N. Paine, established in 1865, which owns largely in fishing vessels and conducts a general outfitting store. The business was begun first by R. E. Nickerson, Joshua Paine and James Emery in 1853, at which time another wharf was erected. In 1861 the firm became Paine &

Thomas K. Paine, son of Jesse and Betsey (Hopkins) Paine, was born in 1846. He has been in the fishing business since 1860, and since 1882 in weir fishing. He has lived in Provincetown since 1868. He married Lizzie, daughter of Christopher Hussey of Maine. Their children are: George L., May E., and one that died in infancy.

George W. Pettes, son of George W. and Ruth (Nickerson) Pettes . and grandson of Timothy Nickerson, was born in 1831. He has been a sail maker since 1846. He married Elsiaida B. Turner.

A. Louis Putnam united with Enos N. Atkins in 1862 in the purchase of the jewelry and fancy goods store established by A. S. Dudley in 1855. In 1864 Atkins retired. In 1870 Augustus Mitchell became a partner, and the firm of A. L. Putnam & Co. continued until 1888. Upon Mr. Mitchell's death the business again passed to A. L. Putnam.

James A. Reed, born in 1848, is a son of Allen and Eliza A. (Edson) Reed. He came to Provincetown in 1863 with his father, who kept the Pilgrim House five years, and then purchased Ocean Hall and converted it into a hotel known as the Central House. Since his death in 1881, James A. has been the manager. He was assistant deputy inspector and collector of customs from January, 1887, to December, 1887, and from February, 1888, until December 1, 1889, he was deputy collector and inspector of customs. He married Ada E., daughter of Frank A. Paine. Their children are: Ethel A., Lula A. and Earl E.

John Rosenthal, born in 1833 in France, is a son of Jaques Rosenthal. He came to this country at the age of twenty, and at Baltimore, October 26, 1854, he enlisted in the Fifth United States Infantry as a private. He was promoted corporal March 4, 1858; sergeant November 1, 1858; sergeant major December 11, 1863; ordinance sergeant April 30, 1864. He resigned and was discharged September 25, 1885. He was in several important expeditions, and was in the battle of Appache Canon against the Texans March 28, 1862. He married Mary E., daughter of Prince Freeman. They have two children : Mabel F. (Mrs. A. G. Lester) and Irving L.

Benjamin Small, born in 1802, is the son of Taylor and Mary (Lombard) Small. He followed the sea in the fishing business until 1860. He gave five thousand dollars to the Provincetown public library in 1889.

James A Small', born in 1840 in Truro, is a son of Joshua' and Ruth Kenney (Isaac', Francis', Samuel Small'). He was in the war of the rebellion from July, 1862, until 1865, in the Third Massachusetts

Cavalry, and was discharged with the rank of sergeant major. Since 186!> he has been a member of Central Wharf Company. He married Rebecca G., daughter of John and Hannah (Paine) Hughes. Their only daughter is Lydia H.

Joshua T. Small", is the eldest son of Thomas K'. and Maria Jerusha (Baldwin) Small, (Joshua', Isaac', Francis', Samuel Small'). He succeeded N. H. Drie, baker, in 1878. In 1882 he purchased the bakery of Jacob Gross and has continued since that date a successful business at the corner of Commercial and Gosnold streets. He married D. Ellen, daughter of James Livermore.

David Smith, son of Seth and Ruth Smith, and grandson of Seth Smith, was born in 1814. He followed the sea until 1867, and from that time until his death in 1888, he was in a grocery and provision store in Provincetown. He married Lucy Lewis, who died, leaving iive children: Lucinda S., Lucy C, David L., Azubah S. and Richard C. His second marriage was with Mrs. Jurusha A. Lewis, daughter of Nehemiah and Hope (Cobb) Rich. They have two children living: Charles B. and Fred. W., and they lost two. Mrs. Smith had one son by her former marriage, Joseph H. Lewis.

Francis P. Smith was born in 1835 in the Azore islands. He came to Provincetown in 1851, and followed the sea from that time until 1871, as a steward, since that time he has kept the Atlantic House, which was formerly known as the Union House. He married Fidelia P., daughter of Nathan Dunham. Their children are: Nellie B., Belle G., Selena F., Garfield P., Frank P. and Priscilla M.

H. Merrill Smith, born in 1826, in Chatham, is a son of Heman and Rebecca (Jackson) Smith, grand.son of Nathaniel and great-grandson of Ralph Smith. Mr. Smith followed the sea seventeen years. With Thomas W. Dyer he started business in paints, oils and hardware in 1869. Under the name of T. W. Dyer & Co. the business was continued until 1886, when Mr. Smith purchased the business. He married Catharine S., daughter of David Eldridge. Their children are: Heman Francis, Franklin N., and two daughters that died - one in infancy, and one, Eva M., December 9, 1883, aged twenty-one years.

John Smith, born at Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, in 1829, is a son of Donald Smith. He came to Provincetown at the age of twelve and has followed the sea since that time. He has been master since 1848. He was coasting, fishing, and on foreign voyages until 1883; since that time he has run the steamer Longfellow between Provincetown and Boston. He married Mary E. Lavender and has one son, Donald B.

Paine, and has one son, William P. Mr. Smith is a photographer. He was a partner with George H. Nickerson from 1880 to 1883, when he opened rooms at the store of Amasa Smith. In 1889 he purchased the premises formerly owned by George Chamberlain.

Jonathan F. Snow, born in 1846, is a son of Jonathan and Susan (Young) Snow, and grandson of Jonathan Snow. He followed the sea from 1863 until 1875, was then in mercantile business until 1883, since which time he has been clerk of the steamer Longfellow. He married Emeline, daughter of Waters Taylor. Their only son is Fred. R.

Obadiah Snow, born in 1825, is a son of Josiah and Ruth (Dyer) Snow. He was a boat builder in early life and followed the trade twenty-one years. He married Sarah M. Dyer, who died, leaving one son, Elijah O., who is married and has one son. Mr. Snow began business as a music dealer many years ago, upon the site of the present town hall. In 1875 he refitted his present store, and continued a dealer in music, fancy goods, carpets and other goods, assisted by his son.

Reuben S. Snow, born in 1831, is a son of John and Sally (Lancy) Snow, and grandson of Josiah Snow. He has been a house carpenter since 1847. He married Hannah D., daughter of Nathaniel and Sally Paine, and granddaughter of Elisha Paine.

Richard G. Tarrent was born in 1830 in Cork, Ireland. He came to Provincetown with his father, James Tarrent, at the age of sixteen. He was six years in the whaling business, and after spending four years in California, he was boat fishing until 1870, and since that time he has run a seine loft. He married Ann McGregor, who died, leaving no children, and he was afterward married to Ruth A. Seavy, who died, leaving two children: Lizzie A. (Mrs. E. E. Cramer) and Charlotte A. (Mrs. Charles Hopkins). His third marriage was with Susan A. Cofl&n. Their only daughter is Lillie.

Amasa Taylor, son of Amasa and Polly (Gould) Taylor, grandson of David and Susan Taylor, and great-grandson of John an ' Susanna Taylor, was born in 1824. He has been a blacksmith at Provincetown since 1858. He married Rebecca Crosby, who died, leaving two children: Abiel C. and Mary A. (Mrs. E. Wheeler). His second marriage was with Hannah Bush, widow of James Bush. They have three children: Rebecca A., Minnie C. and Lucinda C.

Thomas S. Taylor, born in Yarmouth in 1840, is a son of Charles and Hannah (Ellis) Taylor, grandson of Elijah, and great-grandson of Elijah Taylor. He came to Provincetown in 1853, and followed the sea from that time "until 1886, the last thirty years in whaling vessels. He was master of vessels after 1862. He married Josephine E., daugh- ter of Elisha West, and granddaughter of Ebenezer West, who was a native of Plymouth, and removed to Nova Scotia. They have four children: Charles N., E. Thomas, William W. and Hersey D.

Joseph A. West, son of Elisha and Barbara Ann (Lavender) West, was born in Nova Scotia in 1846, and came to Provincetown in 1848. He married Josephine Hatton. Their children are: Josie H. and Louis J. Joseph A. West and Josiah F. Brown, in 1868, succeeded to the business of C. P. Dyer. During the same year Mr. West became sole proprietor, and continues to keep a large stock of furniture, fancy goods and builder's and hardware goods.

John G. Whitcomb, born in Yarmouth, Maine, in 1834, is a son of Levi Whitcomb. He married Mary J. Fountain and has one son, Charles T. C. Mr. Whitcomb began, in December, 1865, to build vessels upon the shore nearly opposite his present residence. The whaling schooner Alcyone, of 137 tons, the first vessel built by Mr. Whitcomb, was launched in 1866. In 1867 the Cora Morrison, of 129 tons, was launched from his yard. In 1867 the schooner Freddie W. Alton, of 129 tons, was launched. November, 1868, the brig D. A. Small, of 166 tons, was completed. The schooner Lottie Bell, of 131 tons, in 1869, and the schooner Willie Swift, of 137 tons, in 1875, were also built by Mr. Whitcomb at his yard. In 1867, while hastening work upon the Alton, Mr. Whitcomb cut and carted to his yard from Truro woods good white oak timber, which he used in the frame of the Alton. Mr. Whitcomb still repairs a great many vessels, but has since 1875 built no new vessels.

Joseph Whitcomb, born in 1841 in Yarmouth, Maine, is a son of Levi Whitcomb. He came to Provincetown in 1865. He was deputy sheriflF from 1876 until 1889, when he was elected high sheriff. Mr. Whitcomb assisted for many years Robert Knowles, undertaker, and in 1880, upon the death of Mr. Knowles, established himself in business as his successor. He married Susan E. Knowles, who died leaving two children: Flossie M. and Susie E. His second marriage was with Levinia C. Mullen. They have one son, Joseph W.

Andrew T. Williams, born in 1832, is a son of Jacob C. and Mary (Rich) Williams, and grandson of Andrew N.Williams. Mr. Williams conducts the general store formerly owned by the Union Wharf Company, which was established in 1831 by Thomas Nickerson, Jonathan Nickerson, Samuel Soper and Stephen Nickerson. Several changes in the partners followed, but the firm continued until its dissolution in 1879 to do a large fishing business, which Mr. Williams has continued. He married Eveline, daughter of Samuel and Eveline Soper. They have three children: Fred. E., Mary E. and Nina S.

grandson of Eleazer Young, was born in 1823. He followed the sea from 1833 until 1863, as master after 1849. Since 1864 he has been a member of the Central Wharf Company. He married Abbie, daughter of John Freeman. Their only daughter is Millie W.

Paron C. Young, born in 1838, is a son of Elisha and Betsey (Sparks) Young, and grandson of Elisha Young. He entered the war in January, 1864, in Third Massachusetts Cavalry, Company I. He received a wound at Cedar creek in October, 1864, which closed his active service. He married Susan E., daughter of Joseph P.Johnson. They have two children: William H. and Nettie M.