Bristol County, Massachusetts - Chapter 45, 1883

Chapter 45

Public Schools. - Among the early votes of the towns in Plymouth Colony we always find the record, "The meeting-house shall stand in the midst of the town." So it was in Rehoboth, whose inhabitants two hundred years ago were the lawful owners of Attleborough and Cumberland, and whose votes furnished all the schooling that the children enjoyed down to the incorporation of the town. Our ancestors were determined to lay the foundations of a religious commonwealth, and as often as they were without a pastor, so often they " voted and agreed to seek

But our forefathers were no less earnest to found an intelligent commonwealth. Whenever lots were drawn for a division of land among the proprietors, the schoolmaster, as well as the pastor or teacher, had allotments assigned to him. Hardly did they fix upon the territory for their habitations ere they began to plant a college for the education of their sons. Rehoboth was not behind other towns in this respect, for we find one of her townsmen was instructed to write to the young gentleman at Dorchester " to signify to him that it is the town's desire that he would be pleased to come up and teach a school." Not long after the townsmen acquainted the town that they had agreed with Mr. Edward Howard to teach school " at twenty pounds a year and his diet, besides what the court doth allow in that case." In the spring of 1699, Thomas Robinson kept a reading and writing school, it is inferred, for boys only, since in December following the selectmen agreed with Robert Dickson to keep school for six months, " he engaging to do his utmost endeavor to teach both sexes of boys and girls to read English and write and cast accounts. In consideration of such service the said selectmen, in the town's behalf, do engage to pay him thirteen pounds, one-half in silver money, and the other half in good merchantable board at the current and merchantable price."

Ten years afterwards the course of study was enlarged, since we find the record that " the schoolmaster agreed to instruct in reading, writing, grammar, and arithmetic." All these votes were in accordance with the law of 1647, providing for the taxing of the people of the towns for the support of free public schools, to which every child might have access, - the first legislative act in the world affording free public instruction, through a general taxation of all the people, to the children of all the people.

In 1744 it was made imperative on towns containing one hundred families or more to support a teacher who, in addition to all the English branches, had a competent knowledge of the Greek and Latin languages. This was the origin of the famous grammar school. Rehoboth complied with the law, and voted thirty pounds " for the upholding of a grammar school in town."

Thus far the history of our public schools is intimately connected with the ancient town once embracing Attleborough in its limits. The first record in relation to schools after the incorporation of the town is March 20, 1716, as follows : " It was voted and agreed upon that Deacon Daggett should be schoolmaster." In the same year it is also recorded, " At a town-meeting Lawfully warned the 17th of December, 1716, for to Consider and Resolve what they will do with Respect to the Hireing of A School-master and see whether they accept of Mr. Josiah Jacques as school-master on any of those terms Mr. Freeman has agreed for him the said Jacques, it was voted to hire Mr. Jacques of Mr. Freeman for one year for a School-master, and to pay Mr. Freeman twenty pounds, in current money of this province, or proportionally for less time, if he should not stay so long.'' As the Mr. Freeman here referred to was David Freeman, who lived near the graveyard at South Attlehorough, it is evident that the school was kept in that section of the town. At this time, and for nearly one hundred years afterwards, the schools of Attleborough were kept, not in school-houses, but in the dwellings of the inhabitants.

During the year 1717, Thomas Cathcart, of Martha's Vineyard, served the town as schoolmaster for thirty pounds, for which he gave his receipt, closing with the emphatic words of the time, " I say received by me, Thomas Cathcart." At this time the population of Attleborough, including the Gore, as Cumberland, R. I., was then termed, did not exceed five hundred, and only one school was kept. The records always speak of it as the school, and the teacher is invariably called the school-master.

Dec. 5, 1818, it is recorded, " The meeting then held to consider what may be done respecting the school, to see where the town will place it ; whether by a committee that may then and there be chosen to manage that affair, or any other way that may be thought proper. The Town voted and agreed that ye school should be kept seven months in one quarter of ye Town at a time, and that Quarter shall have power to place the school as they shall think most proper and convenient." The town likewise chose a committee of five men to divide the town into four quarters, - H. Peck, Ensigns Whipple and Read, John Lovell, and Samuel Day. This committee had power to order which quarter should begin, and which quarter next should have the school, till all have had their proportion, viz., seven months.

There is no record that this committee ever reported, and it is probable that no considerable change was made in the method of public instruction until the year 1737, when the town was divided into four districts, Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, and Southeast. It appears from the records of the orders on the treasurer that George Allen was the schoolmaster during the years 1724, '26, '28, and his compensation varying from thirty to fifty pounds. Besides, it is inferred that he was entitled to conveyance to the scene of his labors, inasmuch as Mr. Ebenezer Tiler was paid several times for "horse hire going to fetch ye schoolmaster." He had likewise "his diet," for the warrants for town-meetings in those days frequently called upon the town " to see if they will do anything towards boarding the schoolmaster." What branches of study the youth pursued does not appear, but probably reading, writing, and casting accounts. Some years, notably in 1735-36, no school was kept, the record being, " In ye first place, it was put to vote to see whether the town will hire a schoolmaster, and the vote passed in the negative." The teachers at this time, as far as known, were John Gratrax, Benjamin Ide, and John Robbins, Jr. The latter was evidently a prominent man in his generation, as he held the office of town clerk and selectman several years.

The next advance in education in Attleboroug-h was in the spring of 1745. This was the year following the act of the Legislature authorizing the division of towns into school districts, and making it obligatory upon towns to provide a teacher for all English branches when the number of families equaled fifty, and adding Latin and Greek when the number of families reached one hundred.

The record says, "At a town-meeting lawfully warned and held ye 14th day of January, 1745, voted to choose a committee to divide the town into five parts and the Gore to be one part. Voted also that the school be kept in two places, six months each in each part, during the next two years and six months." This committee made the division and named the houses where the school should be kept. This was the first step towards the district system, though its inception was still in the future. By this plan the school " ambulated" from quarter to quarter, and when one quarter had had its six months' schooling, three months in each of the two places, it waited two years and six months before its turn came again to drink at the fount of knowledge.

Besides this districting the town, another action occurred at the same time indicating that the cause of education received a new impetus from some source. The record says the warrant contained the following article : "To see if the town will vote any money to be expended in keeping women schools." That so important an innovation might have due consideration, the article was laid over to an adjourned meeting, when it was " voted to raise thirty pounds old tenor money to encourage ye keeping of women schools."

During several years the records contain but little in regard to the subject of schools. Some years appropriations for their support were not apparently made. The usual item for " diet" disappears. In 1771 the east part of the town was granted, for some unexplained reason, one week's additional schooling. But what women schools were taught, and with what success, we are left in the dark.

With increasing population and enlarged areas of occupied territory, increased facilities for educational advantages were required. In November, 1771, the town voted to choose a committee "to divide the town into twelve parts, and appointed the places where the school shall be kept." This committee attended to the duty assigned them, and after careful consideration of the territory and the wants of the people they decided to divide the town into thirteen parts. They performed the work, and submitted a report to that effect Oct. 14, 1771. In accordance with the committee's recommendation, the voters, then assembled, rescinded the vote to divide the town into twelve parts, and then agreed and voted to divide into thirteen parts, naming the houses wherein the schools should be kept.

The schoolmasters of the time were men not unknown to fame. Prominent among them was Elisha May, who often held public office, both civic and military, during the Revolution, and was the friend of Washington. His name appears as schoolmaster as early as 1768. The term dollars appears in the town records for the first time in connection with the payment of his salary, but at the same time the amount received is stated in pounds, shillings, and pence.

In 1769, Ephraim Starkweather kept the grammar school one year. He was a native of Rehoboth, where he did duty on the Committee of Correspondence in the early days of the Revolution. He served two years - 1775 and 1778 - as representative to the General Court, and was three years senator from that town.

In 1776 the record is, " Voted to divide the school money, that each one may have his equal part. Voted that no person shall send out of his own quarter. Voted that any quarter that neglects to improve his money within the year shall lose it. Voted that each quarter shall draw one-thirteenth of the money raised for schooling." But what sum of money was raised for that purpose does not clearly appear.

For ten years the division of the town into thirteen parts was accepted with but little dissent, then agitation commenced. The old thirteen districts lost prestige with the close of the Revolution, and in 1787 the town " voted to make twenty quarters." Before this action was put into practice, and at the next town-meeting, it was " voted and agreed to let the quarters stand as they be, and the money shall be divided among the quarters according to the number of children in said town from four to sixteen years old." This is the first time that school money was apportioned according to the number of pupils in a district, - a method of division which obtained with some interruptions and various modifications until the abolition of the district system.

The question of increasing the number of quarters, as they were persistently called, did not rest, and in 1789 the town was divided into twenty quarters. This arrangement continued until 1808, when the town chose a committee and "districted," according to a late law of the commonwealth, into eighteen districts. The " metes and bounds" are accurately entered in the records in the words and over the signatures of the committee.

The records give no clue to the time when schoolhouses were erected, or of the erection of any previous to 1804. The town then voted authority to the quarters to raise money to build houses, to select " a

This authority seems to have been first employed by the Old Town district. The district at the falls soon after took steps to erect a house by a warrant over the signatures of the selectmen, and after 1808 most of the quarters received at different times similar dispensations at the hands of the town fathers. The town annually elected prudential committees for the districts, who received and disbursed the school money, and previously to 1827 contracted unconditionally with teachers. At this time committees were chosen by the town, sometimes one person from each district and at other times two persons, '" to view and inspect the schools." But their actions and reports have not been handed down to this generation.

In 1804, for the first time, a committee was chosen to select and recommend a uniform list of text-books for all the schools. ' This committee consisted of Rev. John Wilder, Rev. Nathan Holman, Rev. James Read, Ebenezer Bacon, John Richardson, Jr., Dr. William Blanding, Joel Read, Elijah Ingraham, and Peter Thacher. This supervisory committee was reelected, with some resignations and changes, two or three times.

The appropriations for "tuition and schooling" after the Revolution for forty years were made per capita, the children from four to sixteen years of age being numbered usually the 1st of November. The sum voted and allowed increased from fifty-eight cents to each child in 1798 to seventy-five cents in 1801, and one dollar in 1807, at which sum it continued until 1820. The several districts received an amount of money determined by the number of scholars in the district, except in 1815, when one-half was divided equally among the eighteen districts and the other half distributed by the scholars. But how much money was raised or the number of weeks' schooling it furnished is not made evident by the town records.

Since 1827 the history of the public schools is written in the reports of the several superintending committees the town has annually elected. The details would fill several pages. The gradual increase of the appropriations for educational purposes from one dollar per scholar to eight dollars, the erection of school-houses, the interest or lack of interest in the cause, the increase of the number of scholars from six hundred to more than two thousand, are facts known to every citizen. The pertinacious adherence to the district system established in 1789, and continued modified and perfected during seventy years, until, outliving its usefulness, it was abolished by the State at the commencement of the year 1883, and the early withdrawal of pupils from the grammar and even the intermediate schools, to the manifest injury of the child, are equally well known.

Attle Borough

1867, was the most marked advance in this period of the town's school history. These schools furnish all who wish and are qualified to enjoy their advantages thorough instruction in the higher branches of learning, according to the laws of the commonwealth. During the fifteen years of their existence they have continued the even tenor of their way, not always with full ranks, but with steady beneficial influence.

The East School has had during this time four principals - Calvin G.Hill, William Wilkins,A.F. Wood, and J. Osmond Tiffany, and is now in a prosperous condition. Its average membership has been about forty-five. The assistant teachers have been Mrs. C. G. Hill, Misses Tonks, Kelton, Sheffield, Hawes, and Helen W. Metcalf, the present efficient teacher.

The North High School has had two principals, - Burrill Porter, Jr., from May, 1867, to July, 1879; and Henry M. Maxson, from 1879 to the present time. There have been six assistants, - Miss Lucy L. Holden, Mrs. Sarah Austin, Mary'I. Hinkley (now Mrs. E. A. Hall), Elizabeth K. Goss (now Mrs. Albert Dodge, of Minneapolis, Minn.), and Miss Agnes Peirce. Its average membership has been fifty pupils, and its graduates, numbering about one hundred and fifty, are among the best scholars in town.

The appropriations for the support of schools have increased from eight thousand dollars in 1867 to twenty-four thousand in 1883. The State has abolished the school districts. The town erected two new high school buildings in 1881 and 1882 at a cost of thirty-one thousand dollars. The town has taken possession of the property of the former districts, which, exclusive of high school buildings, is valued at one hundred thousand dollars. A superintendent of public instruction has been chosen, and the schools are in a fair way to enter upon a new career of prosperity.

The present superintending committee are Samuel P. Lathrop, chairman; Charles E. Bliss, secretary; Henry Bice, George A. Adams, Rev. John Whitehill, and Rev. George E. Osgood; Superintendent, Francis E. Burnett.

In closing this monograph of the public schools of Attleborough, I would not forget to record that some of the old school districts have funds whose income is applied to prolonging and otherwise benefiting the schools. The school recently known as District No. 8 receives annually the interest of seven hundred dollars, devised nearly fifty years ago by a Mr. Richards. He was born in Marseilles, France, came to this country, and settled in South Attleborough, where he kept a store for nearly a century. He was never married, and this property was given to the district, provided it should not be called for within six years by a nephew, supposed to be living in France. In sentiment he was a deist. His will, dictated by himself, disavows a belief in the divinity of Christ and the Christian religion. He declared also a disbelief in

Mahomet, and asserted a reliance in the only living and true God, to whom he commended his spirit. He was warmly attached to republican democracy, and of choleric temperament, and quite eccentric.

In 1843, Mr. Abiather Richardson died, conferring a legacy of eleven thousand dollars upon the ten districts in the East parish. His will requires real estate security for the invested fund, and provides for a triennial election of twelve trustees, in whom the management of the fund and the distribution of its income are vested. By careful management the legacy has been considerably increased, and its income materially prolongs the schools. His gravestone bears the inscription, " His legacy to common schools is his best epitaph and most enduring monument."

Thus the record shows that true progress has been made along the years whose flight has brought us hither, and it may still continue to be made provided we observe the Baconian apothegm and " make haste slowly."

Industries - The means and energies of the first settlers were devoted to clearing up their farms. In the wilderness which then covered the territory of Attleborough, our fathers had neither time nor need in their simple living to turn themselves to manufactures. Only the arts necessary to living and farming got a footing in town until near the close of the last century. At that time new industries commenced which have had an important influence upon the character and prosperity of the town.

While the war of the Revolution was still in progress, and its results not foreseen except in the faith of the patriots who carried it ou, the manufacture of jewelry was begun by a simple Frenchman in the year 1780. This pioneer in the business was known as " the foreigner," - perhaps he was the only alien in town at that early period, - and his name cannot now be ascertained.

From this humble origin the manufacture of jewelry has received yearly more and more attention, until now, in 1883, Attleborough is one of the chief places where this industry flourishes.

Although a hundred years have passed since the commencement of making jewelry, yet as its most rapid strides have been made during the last twentyfive years, or more accurately during the last decade, antiquity, never at peace with growth, has not yet incrusted anything connected with it. Its success has been reached not by the aid of united capital under the corporate system, but by the organizing ability and most intelligent personal direction of individual enterprise. The industry has grown by a process of evolution from the handicraft of the shop until it has become a rare combination of mechanism and manual skill and dexterity. Human ingenuity is taxed to its utmost to devise new lines of novelties and new styles of staple goods, and the most cunningly-devised machinery is employed in their production. Hence the well-paid masters of this art have always displayed a marked intellectual activity, which exerts a beneficial influence upon the history of the town, a result which always accompanies wellremunerated labor and the better conditions of life.

Progress has not always been made with equal step, but it has always brought large returns. Intelligent judges have estimated the value of the product during the year 1882 at nearly ten millions of dollars. Certain it is that during the' past five years this industry has made an unusual stride. During this time the number of firms engaged in the manufacture of jewelry in some of its numerous branches has doubled, and the value of the products has increased in still greater ratio. The goods produced find a ready market all over the country and across the Atlantic. Whatever the varying demands of the market may be, whether for solid gold work or for that class in which " all is gold that you see," they are here speedily met.

H. F. Barrows & Co. is one of the oldest firmnames now engaged in the jewelry business in Attleborough. Mr. H. F. Barrows, the senior member of the firm, began business in 1853 in the old shop south of the braid-mill, Attleborough Falls. The next year he associated with him James H. Sturdy, under the style of Barrows & Sturdy. They moved to the Richards manufactory, North Attleborough, in 1856, and in 1857, Mr. Sturdy withdrew, and L. A. Barrows and E. S. Richards associated themselves with H. F. Barrows, under the name of H. F. Barrows & Co. The members now are H. F. Barrows and H. F. Barrows, Jr. For the last twenty-one years they have occupied their present factory on Broad Street. He was one of the first manufacturers of rolled-plate jewelry in this section of the town, and continues to make the finest goods of this class, of all varieties and patterns, which the market demands. They employ an average of one hundred and fifty hands, with a yearly payroll of seventy-five thousand dollars. New York office, 177 Broadway.

F. G. Whitney & Co. began business in 1849, when F. G. Whitney and E. W. Davenport formed a partnership to manufacture jewelry in the building which now stands on East Street. In 1852 they built and used for a shop the building now occupied by John Stanley & Son for a carriage-shop. Mr. Whitney, after several changes in the firm, moved, July, 1856, to E. I. Richards & Co.'s factory, where he did a successful business, often employing from one to two hundred operatives. In 1876 he built the brick factory on Chestnut Street, one hundred and fifty feet in length by thirty-five feet in width, and three stories in height, recently destroyed by fire, but now rebuilding. The old firm manufactured fancy brass-work, novelties, specialties, and fancy goods, which the market in its varying needs calls for. The same business is now conducted by his sons, George B. Whitney and Edwin F. Whitney, under the firm-name of F. G. Whitney & Co. They are manufacturing successfully a large line of goods for the domestic and foreign markets.

The firm of Ira Richards & Co. will long be memorable in the history of the jewelry industry in Attleborough. In 1833, H. M. and E. Ira Richards formed a copartnership. In 1834, Ira Richards, then a member of the firm of Draper, Tiff't & Co., withdrew from that firm and entered into partnership with his son and cousin as Ira Richards & Co. The new firm began well. It invested two thousand dollars, ran twenty weeks, and cleared twenty thousand dollars. Then, Dec. 14, 1836, H. M. Richards withdrew, and George Morse and Virgil Draper were received as partners. In 1841 both of the last-named gentlemen in their turn withdrew, and Abiel Codding, Jr., the skillful foreman of the factory, was admitted to one-third interest in the business. Ira Richards died in 1845, and Josiah D. Richards received a one-third interest in his father's place. E. Ira Richards, Abial Codding, Jr., and Josiah D. Richards, with equal interests, under the firm-name of Ira Richards & Co., carried on business together with remarkable success for thirty years, until the firm acquired a national reputation. The number of their employes averaged for many years from two hundred to two hundred and twenty-five. The variety, quantity, and excellence of their goods has never been surpassed by any firm in town.

F. B. Richards & Co. manufacture jewelry in the new factory building of E. Ira Richards, occupying the entire second floor. They make the first quality of rolled-gold plated goods, in bracelets, bangles, sets, and novelties, to meet the comprehensive demands of the trade. They employ one hundred and forty hands, with a yearly pay-roll of sixty-five thousand dollars. The firm-name in New York is E. Ira Richards & Co. They are the successors of the well-known firm of Ira Richards & Co., the members of the firm being E. Ira Richards, F. B. Richards, and E. Ira Richards, Jr.

The firm of Stephen Richardson & Co. dates back to the year 1837, when Stephen Richardson and Abial Codding manufactured jewelry on the south side of Elm Street, near the Ten-Mile River. Here they employed ten hands. In 1840 went into the factory of Calvin Richards, near the present residence of Abial Codding. Here the number of workmen was doubled. Moved thence to the factory of Draper, Lifft & Co., near Barden's store. At this time David Capron, who had been in company with Mr. Richardson, retired, and Samuel R. Miller was admitted as Richardson & Miller. At this time the goods were sold at Western hotels until Miller opened an office in Maiden Lane, New York, but in 1856 he withdrew from the firm. Stephen Richardson continued alone until 1859, when his son, Clarence H. Richardson, became his partner, and the office was removed to 177 Broadway, New York, where it remained twenty years. The firm was now styled Sephen Richardson & Co. Their factory was owned by Stephen Richardson, on East Street. The building was burned in August, 1870, and immediately rebuilt. Stephen Richardson died in 1877, and his son continues the business. During the last twenty years they have manufactured a large variety of goods, chains, and novelties, - gold, silver, copper, or brass, - anything the market calls for. They are the only firm that ever shipped goods to Japan, and were the first to open an export trade in jewelry with Europe.

F. S. Draper was in company with Draper, Tifft & Co. six years before the war of the Rebellion, the other members of the firm being his father, Josiah Draper, John Lifft, and George Horr. George Horr died, and Joseph Bacon became a member of the linn, which was now styled Draper, Tifft & Bacon. In 1862, Mr. F. S. Draper sold his interest to the rest of the firm and entered the army. Returning from th,e war in 1865, in connection with F. S. Bailey and F. G. Pate, he organized the firm of Draper, Pate & Bailey, carrying on business first in E. Ira Richards' manufactory, and then in the stone building of the Whiting Manufacturing Company. In 1875, Mr. Pate withdrew, and two years later Mr. Draper bought out F. S. Bailey's interest, and continued the business. The original firm was located in Plain ville, and employed one hundred and fifty hands in the manufacture of fine gold jewelry. Draper, Pate & Bailey increased from twenty-five to one hundred and twentyfive hands in two years, and did a most successful business. F. S. Draper now employs sixty-five hands, with an annual pay-roll of fifty-five thousand dollars, in the manufacture of plated charms and fire-gilt chains.

Stephen Smith was born in Mansfield, Mass., in January, 1796. He married, first, Ruth Hodges, by whom he had one son, Stephen N. ; second, Mercy S., daughter of Nathaniel Ide, who married Hannah Daggett, daughter of Col. John Daggett, an officer in the American Revolution. Mercy was named after Mercy Shepard, wife of the aforesaid Col. John Daggett, and daughter of John Shepard " the ancient," who lived to the great age of one hundred and five. (Of this John Shepard, we extract from John Daggett's "Sketch of the History of Attleborough," 1834, the following: "John Shepard, who was a native of Foxborough, where he lived until a few years before his death, died in this town in 1809, aged one hundred and five years. He retained all his faculties of mind and body, except his eyesight, to the last, and was able to walk, with a little assistance, till a few days before his death. He lived over one hundred years on his native spot, and during this time lived in two counties and four different towns. He was a man of pious character, cheerful in disposition, jocose, witty, and of a quick undertanding. He was deprived of his eyesight on a sudden during the night, and was not himself aware of it until the next morning, when he sought in vain for the light of day. He had one son and several daughters, two of whom lived to be over eighty years old, another, Mrs. Mary Mann, of Wrentham, died in 1828, aged ninety-seven.")

Stephen Smith was a farmer, purchased the old Joel Read farm of eighty acres, in Attleborough, and resided there during life. He took quite an interest in town and county affairs. He was a Free-Soiler when but three or four in the town advocated those principles. He was strict in his religious belief, Calvinist Baptist, and a prudent, temperate, reserved man, of few words, honest in his dealings, and of sterling integrity. From the small farm of six or seven hundred dollars his thrift accumulated a fine property, valued at his death at six thousand dollars. He had by his wife, Mercy, Ruth A. (deceased), Maria (deceased), Josephine (Mrs. William Gooding, deceased), Hannah D. (married George Crawford, of Pawtucket, and died, leaving one son, Eugene A., who is now clerk for Mr. Smith), Eliza E. (married (1) John Shurtleff, (2) George F. Crowninshield, and died, leaving two children), and Theron Ide.

Theron had the common school advantages of a farmer's boy, working on the farm until he was eighteen, when, feeling that there was a more congenial and profitable life for him than agriculture, he came to North Attleborough and entered the employ of Ira Richards & Co. as an apprentice to the jewelry trade. After remaining one year business became dull, and he only worked eight hours a day at six cents an hour. He then went to work for J. T. Bacon & Co., Plainville, " chasing" jewelry at one dollar per day, which price was soon voluntarily raised by his employers to one dollar and twenty-five cents. Remaining here six months, by illness he was compelled to stop work for several months and entirely quit "chasing." His next employment was work at the bench for Barrows & Sturdy, where he remained until his marriage, May 16, 1856, to Emily C, daughter of Abiel and Chloe (Daggett) Codding.1 She was born Feb. 4, 1839.

In June he commenced work for Merritt & Draper, and stayed until he started in business for himself, June 1, 1859, with D. D. Codding, as Codding and Smith, in a small room on the lower floor of the same building now occupied by them. After one year they removed to Mansfield Centre, and continued in a small way until 1861, when the war broke up the business and they gave up manufacturing. They could collect no money on goods sold, and left their tools idle, and in May, 1861, lost everything by the burning of the building containing them. Mr. Smith obtained employment from William Boyd, of Mansfield, making cap-boxes for the army, and con- tinued there until times began to improve, and, in the spring of 1862, he returned to North Attleborough and resumed work with Merritt & Draper, jewelry manufacturers, and took charge of the shop from July, 1862, to July, 1865, when he started business again for himself in North Attleborough, in jewelry manufacturing, with his old partner and C. H. Ames as partners, under the firm name of Codding, Smith & Co., in S. Richardson's building. This firm lasted two years and made some money. Then Mr. Ames retired, and Mr. A. E. Codding came in as partner, firm-name continuing unchanged. They were now in good tide of business, employing fifty hands. In January, 1867, they removed their factory into Dennis Everett's building, and for three years continued, doing a prosperous business there. They then moved into Mr. Richardson's new building, continued there three years, when Mr. Smith bought the interests of his partners, and for one year conducted it alone; then sold one-half interest to D. D. Codding, and formed the firm of T. I. Smith & Co., which still is in business.

In July, 1880, they removed to their present commodious quarters, and they have had a steadily increasing demand for their goods, and employ from ninety to one hundred and ten hands. Their specialties are bracelets, pins, charms, etc. January, 1881, Henry H. Curtis, who had been salesman for three years, became a partner.

The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Smith is Eva C, born May 16, 1860. She married, Nov. 12, 1879, Henry H. Curtis. They have two children, - Fannie S. and Eva Blanche.

Mr. Smith has always been in the ranks of intelligent and independent thinkers. He has ever been in accord with Republican principles, and voted for Lincoln. Steady and reliable in his business, pleasant and affable in his intercourse with others, unassuming and modest in his demeanor, Mr. Smith is considered one of Attleborough's solid citizens, and a man of unobtrusive worth.

Young & Bennett commenced business in 1876, under the style of Young, Bennett & Co., the members of the firm being Charles P. Young, A. F. Bennett, and E. Sieger, of Pennsylvania. At the end of three years Sieger withdrew, and Young and Bennett have since conducted the business. Their place of business was in Whitney's manufactory until Dec. 28, 1882, when they were burnt out, and moved to Whiting's factory. They employ seventy-five hands, with a pay-roll of thirty-five thousand dollars per year, in the manufacture of fine rolled-gold plated chains.

E. I. Franklin & Co. began the manufacture of jewelry in October, 1874, Elton I. Franklin, Hiram S. Lomes, and Clarence W. Fisher composing the firm. Their first place of business was in the factory of Stephen Richardson, on East Street; moved to F. S. Draper's shop, June, 1876. In June, 1878, occupied their present quarters in the factory of the Whiting Manufacturing Company. Franklin & Fisher purchased the interest of H. S. Lomes in 1881, and now manufacture gold front and plated ladies' goods. Number of hands employed, eighty, with an annual pay-roll of thirty-eight thousand dollars.

Sandland, Capron & Co. started business in E. Ira Richards' back factory in 1876. They moved to the Union Power Company's building in 1881, where they give employment to seventy-five hands, in the manufacture of a general line of plated goods.

" The E. A. Bliss Company," an incorporated stock company, manufacture chains and novelties in the Union Power building. The business was commenced by E. A. Bliss and James E. Carpenter, in September, 1878, at Attleborough Falls. The present location was occupied Jan. 1, 1881. Incorporated July, 1882. This company employs seventy-five hands, with a pay-roll of forty thousand dollars.

S. E. Fisher & Co., in the same factory, commenced manufacturing in Stephen Richardson's factory, the firm then being Demarest, Fisher & Co. In 1877 the firm dissolved and reorganized under its present name, Samuel E. Fisher, William W. Fisher, and Edwin D. Sturtevant being the partners. Moved to the Union Power Company's building in 1881. Specialty, fine gold-plated ladies' goods - bracelets, pins, and drops. Number of hands employed, ninety, with an annual pay-roll of fifty-five thousand dollars.

The history of the firm of R. Blackinton & Co. dates from 1863, when R. Blackinton, T. S. Mann, and Walter Ballou commenced business at Attleborough Falls. In 1867, T. S. Mann retired from the firm, and in 1873 the business was moved to larger rooms in the manufactory of E. Ira Richards. They employ one hundred and forty hands in the manufacture of all kinds of plated jewelry. They are now among our most successful manufacturers.

Oscar M. Draper commenced business in 1862, under the style of O. M. Draper & Co., E. Ira Richards being the company. The firm became O. M. Draper in 1868, and in 1876 occupied the whole of the first floor in E. Ira Richards' new manufactory. His specialty from the commencement of business has been fire-gilt and nickel chains. He was the first manufacturer of " swedged goods.'' His machinery is the most complete and ingenious used in the manufacture of this line of goods. He employs eighty hands, and goods of his manufacture find a ready sale. J. J. and J. M. Richards started business as E. S. Richards & Co., in 1864. The members of the firm were E. S. and J. M. Richards. E. S. Richards died in 1866, and J. J. Richards transferred his interest to his son. They are now located in Totten's shop on East Street, where they give employment to twentyfive hands in the manufacture of the best gold front goods.

commenced business as Merritt & Draper in 1855, the members of the firm being H. D. Merritt and J. B. Draper. In March, 1870, they moved to Mansfield, where Mr. Draper retired, and John Shepardson entered the firm, which was then styled H. D. Merritt & Co. This firm returned to North Attleborough in 1872, and went on doing an increasing business until Jan. 20, 1878, when Mr. Merritt died, and Mr. Shepardson associated with him C. H. Miller. The name of the firm remains the same. They employ fifty hands in the manufacture of silver and plated chain.

Thomas Totten & Co. are now located in a factory of their own on East Street, North Attleborough, near the railroad station. This firm commenced business in 1879, in F. S. Draper's factory, on Broad Street. They moved to Stephen Richardson's factory on East Street, and were burned out in March, 1882. They manufactured rolled-gold plated chains, chain trimmings, and chain bracelets. The first two years they made plated flat chains, and are very successful manufacturers of that form of goods. They employ about sixty hands, with a yearly pay-roll of twentyfive thousand dollars.

The history of the firm of F-. G. Pate & Co. dates from January, 1876, when George O. Cowell, Edric A. Hall, and Albert W. Pherson formed a copartnership for the manufacture of jewelry in the factory of the Whiting Manufacturing Company. In February, 1876, Pherson retired, and F. G. Pate joined the firm under the style of Pate, Cowell & Hall. In July, 1877, E. A. Hall sold his interest to his partners, and the name of the firm became F. G. Pate & Co. In November, 1879, George O. Cowell withdrew, and Anthony H. Bliss and F. S. Gilbert became members of the firm, which occupied the first floor of the Union Power Company building January, 1881. This firm manufactures fire-gilt and nickel chain, and plated charms. They give employment to thirty hands, with an annual pay-roll of fourteen thousand five hundred dollars.

Cheever, Rhodes & Co. employ thirty-five hands in the manufacture of rolled plated chain, with an annual pay-roll of sixteen thousand dollars. The firm started as F. S. Bailey & Co. in 1876. In 1878, J. G. Cheever entered the firm, and E. D. Rhodes became a partner in January, 1883.

Clark & Coombs manufacture rings of all grades from electro-plate to fire-gilt. The firm consists of Oren L. Coombs, William O. Clark, and W. Osmond Clark. They employ twelve hands, with a pay-roll of six thousand dollars a year.

studs, and scarf-pins, and furnish employment for twenty hands. Firm is composed of George Demarest and Bernard Brady. Mr. Demarest commenced business in 1872, with nine associates, on the stock plan, in Witherell's factory, in Plainville. In 1874 sold his interest to his associates, and organized a second stock company, with five associates, as Demarest & Fisher, in the factory of Stephen Richardson. In 1877, Mr. Demarest having again sold out, started in his present location, the manufactory of the Whiting Manufacturing Company. He is the originator of the stock plan, which others have successfully followed.

Barrows, Thompson & Short, manufacturers of plated chains, bracelets, and pins, employ sixty hands, with an annual pay-roll of forty thousand dollars. The firm was formed Jan. 1, 1883, by the union of the firms of E. E. Barrows & Co. and T. W. Short & Co. The former commenced business in 1875, and the latter in 1881. They are in E. Ira Richards' manufactory.

John Etzensperger employs fifty-five hands in the manufacture of rolled plated chains and bracelets, with an annual pay-roll of thirty thousand dollars.

Norteman, Hemple & Co. may be found, with a dozen hands, in the old clock factory, so-called, of the Whiting Manufacturing Company. They make chain, shawl-pins, and novelties.

George W. Cheever & Co. manufacture fire-gilt and nickel chain. They employ twenty-five hands, with a yearly pay-roll of twelve thousand dollars.

John C. Bonnett, electro-plater, carries on business where the old tannery formerly stood, near the Ten- Mile River, North Attleborough. Employs eight hands.

T. G. Frothingham & Co. started in the same manufactory in June, 1879, the firm being composed of T. G. Frothingham and William E. Smith. They employ eighteen hands in the manufacture of studs, drops, and pins.

In the village of Attleborough several large factories have recently been built, and they are occupied by some of the largest and most successful manufacturers in town. The first large building was built by the Steam-Power Company. In 1873, Hayward & Briggs erected a large and conveniently-arranged manufactory, in which they conduct a successful business. In 1872, A. Bushee & Co. built a factory on the Ten-Mile River, on County Street, where they manufacture sleeve and collar-buttons. In 1875, E. A. Robinson, of West Attleborough, came from Providence to Attleborough, and has subsequently erected two large and complete jewelry manufactories. During the last three years J. M. Bates has erected two manufactories.

Among the oldest manufacturers are C. E. Hayward, A. W. Sturdy, A. Bushee & Co., and Bliss & Dean. The firm of W. & L. Blackinton employs one hundred and fifty hands in the manufacture of plated chain, with a pay-roll of eight thousand dollars per month. Their annual production amounts to two hundred 'and fifty thousand dollars.

Horton, Angell & Co. commenced business here in 1860, the members of the firm being Edwin J. Hortonj Gideon M. Horton, and B. J. Angell. Jan. 1, 1881, Everett S. Horton was admitted to the firm in place of his brother, Edwin J. Horton, who was lost on Long Island Sound. They are the original manufacturers of the separable sleeve-button. The average number of hands employed is one hundred, with an annual pay-roll of sixty thousand dollars.

The firm of Sturdy Brothers & Co. commenced business in the spring of 1859, when C. H. and A. W. Sturdy formed a partnership in the steam-power building. In the fall of the same year they moved to Mansfield. Returned to Attleborough in 1862; and Albert W. Sturdy went into the army. Charles H. Sturdy retired from the firm in 1871, and E. G. Webster, of Brooklyn, N. Y., was admitted. They employ from thirty to seventy hands, with an annual pay-roll of forty thousand dollars. Their sales reach one hundred thousand dollars per year, consisting of a general variety of gold plate jewelry. Other large manufacturers here are Bates & Bacon, Bliss & Dean, Cummings & Wexel, Hayward & Witherell, Short, Nerney & Co., Smith, Crosby & Smith, Streeter Brothers, Watson & Newell, W. H. Wilmarth &.Co., and D. H. Smith. They manufacture in great variety a fine line of valuable goods.

Bliss Brothers & Everett commenced business in 1873, C. E. Bliss, E. B. Bliss, and A. E. Everett composing the firm, in the steam-power building. They moved to Robinson's Factory in 1876, where they now make a general variety of ladies' and gents' goldplated goods. They employ forty or fifty hands, with a pay-roll of thirty-five thousand dollars per year.

B. S. Freeman commenced his career as a manufacturer of jewelry in 1846 in a small shop adjacent to the homestead at Attleborough Falls. He then made a cheap class of finger-rings. His business steadily increased, and in 1849 he formed a copartnership with a younger brother, Joseph J. Freeman, under the name of Freeman Brothers, and moved in 1850 to the old shop near the Braid Mill. Here the firm began the manufacture of rolled plated goods, being among the first makers of such goods in Attleborough. They contiuued to make various lines of plated vest-chains and sets during the succeeding five years. About 1855 they took Virgil Richards into the firm, which now became Freeman Brothers & Co. Two years afterwards they bought the Robinsouville property, and moved there Jan. 1, 1858. At this time B. S. &

J. J. Freeman bought the interest of Virgil Richards, and the firm again became Freeman Brothers. They very soon began the manufacture of curb-chain. J. J. Freeman first bought an imported curb-chain, experimented with it, and constructed machinery and finally succeeded in making the first rolled plated curbchain made in Attleborough. These goods were known as " Freeman's curb-chains," and had a wide and extensive sale. In the fall of 1861 the name of the firm was changed to Freeman & Co., and the line of goods manufactured adapted to the exigencies of the times, - war badges, military buttons, and brass chain for the soldiers. Oct. 6, 1879, J. J. Freeman died, and the style of the firm became B. S. Freeman & Co., Jan. 1, 1879, and so continues at the present time, the only change in the firm being the admission of B. S. Freeman, Jr., Jan. 1, 1882. About eightyfive hands are given employment in the manufacture of plated goods suited to the demands of the trade.

In the success achieved by this firm no small share of the credit is due to the extraordinary mechanical skill and ingenuity of Joseph J. Freeman. He was a man of original ideas, an inventor by nature's patent, and several valuable patents and the prosperity of the firm bear witness to his skill.

Rolled stock plated chain has one of its largest manufacturers in R. F. Simmons & Co. The original firm consisted of R. F. Simmons and Albert Briggs, who started business at North Attleborough. The second year moved to Attleborough Falls, and took into partnership E. L. Hixon, and in the following year J. L. Sweet. In 1875 they occupied their present location in Freeman's Factory at Robinson ville. They employ one hundred and fifty to one hundred and seventy-five hands, with pay-roll of ninety thousand dollars per year.

The firm of Mason, Draper & Co. commenced business in 1870, in the manufacture of ladies' goods, bracelets and sets. They give employment to seventyfive hands, all men. The members of the firm are M. H. Mason, C. T. Draper, and S. D. Mason.

Davidson Brothers commenced manufacturing in Attleborough, in the Whiting Manufacturing Company's Factory in 1870. In 1875 they moved to Robinsonville, where they employ one hundred hands in the manufacture of vest and ladies' chain, - fire gilt, silver, and electro-plated. New York office, 44 Maiden Lane.

The firm of Stanley Brothers dates its origin from May 1, 1871, when Stephen Stanley, Benjamin Stanley, and E. C. Knapp, formed a partnership to manufacture rolled and stock-plated chain. July 1, 1875, E. C. Knapp withdrew. They commenced business in the old jewelry-shop near the Braid Mill, Attleborough Falls, and still remain there. They employ fifty hands, and have a prosperous and steadily-increasing business.

silver. W. D. Fisher began manufacturing in 1879, and in 1881 associated with him his son, W. N. Fisher, and A. R. Mackreth. They employ forty hands, with a pay-roll of thirty thousand dollars.

E. Whitney & Co. commenced business in 1871 - the members of the firm being Edwin Whitney and William A. Eead - in the same factory, but moved to Daggett's new building in 1882. They first made album- and Bihle-clasps, then novelties and chains ; now they are making pins, drops, and bracelets. Number of hands, forty; annual pay-roll, eighteen thousand dollars.

J. F. Sturdy & Sons, Attleborough Falls, employ forty hands in the manufacture of curb-chain. The firm consists of J. F. Sturdy and three sons, H. K. Sturdy, F. M. Sturdy, and F. E. Sturdy. The senior member, J. F. Sturdy, and J. H. Sturdy, were the first men who made stock plate in this town. They discovered by experiment the plating process in Providence, and, coming to Attleborough, introduced the manufacture of plated goods. The original name of the firm was Draper, Sturdy & Co., Sept. 7, 1849, its members being J. F. Sturdy, J. H. Sturdy, and Herbert M. Draper. Sept. 6, 1850, J. H. Sturdy retired, and James A. Mason was admitted Sept. 16, 1851. After some changes, J. F. Sturdy, J. A. Perry, and F. Doll commenced the manufacture of curb-chain in 1861, under the name of J. F. Sturdy & Co. This firm dissolved in about a year, and J. F. Sturdy conducted the business alone until 1879, when his sons became partners, as at the preseut time.

Other firms at Attleborough Falls are D. F. Briggs, who makes swivels and rings ; employs ten hands ; pay-roll, five thousand dollars annually; and Daggett & Clap, F. W. Hodges, agent. They make a specialty of bracelets, initial buttons, pins, and drops. Number of hands employed, forty, with an annual pay-roll of fifteen thousand dollars.

V. H. Blackinton has carried on business at Robinsonville since ls">7. He bought the old school-house, turned it into a jewelry manufactory, and began a line of jet goods for ladies' wear. As the business increased additions were made to the shop until the building was hurned, Feb. 15, 1869. He immediately rebuilt, and continued the manufacture of jewelry and novelties, military goods, society emblems, and jet goods. Employs an average of forty hands.

South. Attleborough. - The principal business at South Attleborough is the manufacture of leather. The business has been carried on here for many years. The present manufacturers are William H. Coupe & Co. This firm was organized as Coupe & Knowles, its members being William H. Coupe and F. W. H. Knowles. In a few months Mr. Coupe bought out his partner, and in 1866, Edwin Evans succeeded to his place. In 1869 the senior member of the firm purchased his partner's interest, and Edwin A. Burgess, son of Alexander Burgess, of Providence, R. I., became associated with Mr. Coupe. Under their management the industry has steadily grown in extent and perfection until the goods of the firm have a high reputation.

They were burned out in 1872, but immediately erected a new tannery, to which successive additions have been made until now it is one of the largest buildings in town. The works are supplied with first-class machinery, some of which bears Mr. Coupe's patent, and furnish employment to an average of fifty hands, with an annual pay-roll of thirty thousand dollars. The establishment uses yearly fifty thousand sides of leather. Their specialties are lace leather, picker leather, and belting manufactured from raw hides by a process patented by Mr. Coupe himself.

The oldest manufacturers of jewelry at South Attleborough are White & Shaw, who commenced business in 1852, and have continued without change for thirtyone years. They first manufactured brass jewelry. Their specialty now is jewelers' findings. Employ seven hands.

George W. Sadler and Daniel O. Stanley formed a copartnership here in 1863 under the name of Sadler & Stanley. Stanley withdrew, and A. D. Sadler entered in 1867. Six years after A. D. Sadler died, and George W. Sadler & Co. succeeded. The firm makes gold-plated bracelets. Number of hands, fifteen.

Another industry at South Attleborough is carried on by Orr Brothers. They first com menced business at Smithfield, R. I., but came to Attleborough in 1865. They employ twenty-five hands, with a pay-roll of ten thousand dollars yearly. Their business is dyeing and bleaching yarns, threads, and braids.

West Attleborough. - At West Attleborough, Robinson &Co. carry on the manufacture of jewelry in one of the oldest factories in town, the brick shop built by W. H. Robinson, in 1837. The firm at that time was Daggett & Robinson, the members being S. L. Daggett and W. H. Robinson. William Guild was admitted in 1840, and in 1850 the firm took its present name, Robinson & Co. In 1868 the firm consisted of W. H. Robinson, Jr., D. H. Robinson, and E. A. Robinson. The latter retired in 1870, and \Y. H. Robinson withdrew in 1876. D. H. Robinson now conducts the business, employing fifteen hands.

Buttons. - The first manufacturer of buttons in this town, if not in this part of the country, was Edward Price, who came from Birmingham, England, in 1793, bringing with him machines for the manufacture of metal buttons. He commenced their manufacture in a small shop near the residence of John T. Bates. In a short time he moved to Attleborough, and in 1880 came to North Attleborough, where he carried on business successfully, living in the old " Guild House." He acquired considerable property, and tempted by the general prosperity, went into the manufacture of cotton in 1811, and was unsuccessful.

At this time Col. Obed Robinson was manufacturing carbon jewelry at Robinsonville, and he, in connection with Otis Robinson, employed Mr. Price, and commenced the manufacture of metal buttons in 1812. Thus Edward Price, Obed and Otis Robinson ran the first button manufactory in the United States. Glass buttons were made by their successors, Richard Robinson, Virgil Blackinton, and Willard Robinson, in 1813, under the name of Richard Robinson & Co. This firm was followed by Robinson, Jones & Co., composed of Richard Robinson, Willard Robinson, William H. Jones, and H. M. Draper. In 1826 they began to work on the gilt button. In 1827 they erected the brick factory at Robinsonville, and their business required its enlargement in 1828. In 1832 they built another factory and commenced the manufacture of all the varieties of buttons which the market demands, - the common button, the navy, the military, the fancy, and the sporting button, - all of which were acknowledged superior to any others in the market in the beauty, finish, and durability of the work. They received silver medals and diplomas, and all the contested premiums offered by institutes in New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. The company brought the manufacture of this article to perfection, and the various improvements made in their machinery, under the direction of Mr. Willard Robinson, aided by the skill of their workmen, enabled them to compete fully with all their domestic or foreign rivals.

Cotton Manufacture. - At the close of the year 1809 the number of cotton-mills built in the United States was eighty-seven. Many more mills were in process of erection everywhere, and the prospect of industrial prosperity stimulated speculation, and the war of 1812 gave additional impulse to this branch of manufactures. It is believed that in the rapid extension of this industry Attleborough did her part. The old Beaver Dam Factory, which stood on the raceway of Whiting's pond, was turned into a cottonfactory by Capt. Chester Bugbee in 1809, and he, in company with John Richardson, George Blackinton, David Shepard, Ebenezer Draper, Lemuel May, and Samuel Lifft, manufactured cotton goods, running twenty looms and five hundred spindles. Their business prospered until the panic of 1817, after which time it had a somewhat checkered experience. Lemuel May and Daniel Cobb soon bought the factory, and continued the business ten years, until 1828. They were succeeded by Capt. Bugbee and William Haven. Their factory was consumed by fire in 1833.

by the Falls Manufacturing Company. In the winter of 1811 this factory was burned, but was immediately rebuilt, seventy feet in length, thirty-four feet in width, and three stories high. The company employed forty hands, consumed one hundred and fifty bales of cotton per year, and manufactured two hundred and fifty thousand yards of calico print cloths. An addition was made to the factory in 1831, a stone structure sixty-eight feet long, thirty-eight feet wide, and four stories high, and connected with the establishment were a grist-mill, machine-shop, blacksmithshop, and saw-mill. Work was carried on at this time by Jonathan and George Bliss. Up to 1814 the work of the cotton-factory in New England was confined to spinning yarn, which was woven upon hand-looms in the homes of the people. Such was the course pursued in this factory.

This era witnessed the erection of the Mechanics' Factory, in 1811. Ingraham, Richardson & Co. was the first firm ; the second, Whitaker, Richardson & Co. ; third, the Mechanics' Manufacturing Company; then Samuel and Jesse Carpenter. Under their management it had forty looms, one thousand and thirtysix spindles, and they employed forty hands and produced two hundred and ninety thousand yards of calico prints per annum.

In 1854 the present owners, Lewis S. Foster and John K. H. Nightingale, under the firm-name of Foster & Nightingale, purchased the property, the building being then eighty-four feet long, thirty-two feet wide, and three stories high. They have made extensive additions, and conducted the business very successfully. The mill now employs one hundred and fifty hands, runs seven thousand five hundred spindles and one hundred and sixty-five looms in the manufacture of print cloths and sheetings, consuming four hundred thousand pounds of cotton, and making two and a half million yards of cloth yearly. Superintendent, Nehemiah Hicks.

The Farmers' Factory, now occupied as a foundry, was established in 1813 by the Farmers' Manufacturing Company. In 1834 the factory was owned and the business conducted by Jonathan and George Bliss, who employed twenty-three hands and manufactured one hundred and thirty-five thousand yards of cloth.

On the Seven-Mile River the City Factory was built at South Attleborough in 1813. It was burnt in 1826, but rebuilt immediately, forty feet long, thirty-four feet wide, three stories high. Daniel Reed & Co. carried on business here with twenty looms and seven hundred spindles, making ninetyfive thousand yards of cloth each year.

The Lanesville Mill was built in 1826, on Abbott's Run. In 1834 it was owned by Milton Barrows and others, and, like other mills of that day, was devoted to the manufacture of calico print cloths, ran two thousand spindles and fifty looms, and turned out four hundred thousand yards of cloth. Recently the factory has been owned and occupied by John F. Adams, of Paw tucket, R. I. It was burned in 1880, but he has rebuilt it, and it is now in successful operation.

The embargo of 1807-8 benefited manufacturers at the expense of commerce, and much of the capital and effort engaged in the latter were directed to industrial channels. The effect of the embargo is evidenced by the fact that prior to it there were but fifteen cotton-mills in the United States, running eight thousand spindles, while at the end of the year 1809 the number in operation was sixty-two, with thirty-two thousand spindles. Among the fifteen mills was the Dodgeville cotton manufactory, established in Attleborough in 1801 by Ebenezer Tyler, and running thirty looms in the manufacture of print cloths.

During the period of the last war with England, and up to Feb. 10, 1815, manufacturers throughout the country continued to progress with unprecedented activity. Maj. Tyler pursued his business alone until the protection of the war was withdrawn. About the year 1815 he sold an interest in his business to Nehemiah Dodge, who became a partner, with his son, John C. Dodge, as superintendent. Four years later, in 1819, Nehemiah Dodge purchased Tyler's interest and took in his son as a partner. The firm thus formed continued unchanged until 1840, when the son bought out the father and carried on business alone. He enlarged the factory and increased the number of looms to one hundred and thirty-six, but in June, 1854, his property was sold at auction. B. B. and R. Knight were the purchasers. In 1870, Stephen A. Knight was admitted, and the owners were incorporated, with a nominal capital of one hundred thousand dollars, under the name of the Hebron Manufacturing Company, with factories at both Hebronville and Dodgeville. The first-named factory was during many years known as the Atherton Factory, and was established in 1812 on the Ten-Mile River, at a spot known as Chaffee's Mills, where in early times the saw-mill and grist-mill of the fathers stood. Here the Atherton Manufacturing Company, under the lead of Thomas Harkness and Thomas J. Stead, of Providence, yearly manufactured four hundred thousand yards of print cloths. Number of looms, forty-two; spindles, sixteen hundred.

One of the most prominent manufacturers in town is Handel X. Daggett, and none have had a more varied experience. Indeed, he is the pioneer and founder of one branch of the textile arts in this country - the manufacture of domestic braids. The power-loom was introduced and applied to cotton fabrics about 1815. The braider came some years later, and is said to be the invention of a native of Attleborough named Thorpe. These braiders Mr. Daggett was using in 1848 in the production of shoelacings and stearine candle-wicking. Afterwards he braided covering for hoop-skirts.

In 1861, after the Rebellion broke out, he furnished cavalry sabres and scabbards for the United States government. The sabres were made for him in Maine. The scabbards he manufactured in the steam-power building at Attleborough. He furnished about fifteen thousand sabres.

Up to the year 1861 no one had succeeded in producing a domestic braid of good quality in America. The braids consumed in this country were imported from Germany and England, and American manufacturers could sell their wares only with the greatest difficulty. The war of the Rebellion cut off importations, and compelled the trade to seek American braids. At this time Mr. Daggett entered into an arrangement with John C. Morse, of New York, to manufacture domestic braids. The business was carried on first at Attleborough, then at the Farmers', and since 1865 in its present location, the Falls Factory, at Attleborough Falls. The value of the goods produced reached eight hundred thousand dollars yearly.

In 1869, Mr. Morse retired, and Mr. Daggett formed a copartnership with Austin Dunham, of Hartford, Conn., and George S. Moulton, of New York, which lasted until 1873. Then he conducted the business alone until 1879, at which time the Gold Medal Braid Company was formed. The company, which is incorporated, consists of T. N. Ide and Q. A. Atwood, of New York, George A. Tarbell, of Boston, and H. N. Daggett and Harvey Clap, of Attleborough. Capital, sixty-five thousand dollars. They employ an average of one hundred operatives, and manufacture yearly two hundred and fifty thousand dollars' worth of braids. Their worsted, cotton, and silk braids of the finest quality and all varieties have an extensive sale all over the country. They also do a large business in braided silk, linen, and cotton fish-lines, and make pure mohair goods from the best imported mohair. H. N. Daggett, Attleborough Falls, is treasurer and manager of the company.

For several years silver-ware was manufactured at North Attleborough with great success. In 1866. William D. Whiting organized the Whiting Manufacturing Company, as a corporation under the laws of New York, for the manufacture of standard silver-ware. Their manufactory was at North Attleborough, where for ten years they gave employment to one hundred and fifty hands in the production of the finest silverware. The company was incorporated with a capital of one hundred thousand dollars, which was subsequently increased to one hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars. Some years the value of their products amount to one million dollars. This company now conducts its entire business at Broadway and Fourth Street, New York City.

The first efforts of the jewelers of Attleborough to refine their sweepings was, like the commencement of the manufacture of jewelry itself, through the aid of a Frenchman. This person used to travel through the town to Boston, and he was in the habit of stopping at North Attleborough to collect the material, which he always carried in a pocket-handkerchief. Later the clippings and sweepings were sent to New York for refining, until, in 1855, C. E. W. Sherman, who understood the jeweler's trade, formed a partnership with a Mr. Davis to carry on the refining business in North Attleborough. They built the shop now standing in the rear of the dwelling-house just across the river from F. G. Whitney's factory. Their business was immediately prosperous and remunerative. In two years Mr. Sherman bought out his partner and transferred his business to a new refinery on Elm Street. He was sole proprietor for twenty years, until, in September, 1875, he associated with him his son, W. W. Sherman, under the style of C. E. W. Sherman & Son. They have twice enlarged their accommodations, and they now get out from clippings and sweepings about one hundred thousand dollars' worth of gold annually. They are lineal descendants in the eighth and ninth generations from Miles Standish, the first captain of Plymouth, and in industry, integrity, and square dealing they worthily represent their illustrious ancestor.

Col. Willard Blakinton commenced the manufacture of power-loom shuttles at Attleborough in the fall of 1827, and continued it until his death. In the earlier years of the business he employed twelve hands and made twenty-five dozen shuttles per week, besides a large amount of shuttle-mountings which he supplied to other makers. During the first ten years of the industry the average yearly production of the establishment was about ten thousand dollars' worth of shuttles. But in that time the product secured an extensive sale throughout the United States. In 1842 the firm became W. Blakinton & Sons. The work, at first all done by hand, is now done by machines, and fifteen hands turn out two hundred shuttles per day. The shuttles were sold at first for twelve dollars a dozen. The price since the Rebellion has been four dollars and fifty cents a dozen.

The first known instance of jewelry manufacture in Attleborough was by the Frenchman above mentioned, who carried on the business at a brick forge wdiere the old shop stands on the premises of the late Jesse F. Richards. He also made brass butts. Later, but by a few years, was the manufacture of carbon jewelry at Robinsonville by Maj. Robinson. His shop, said to have been the first built in town expressly for that purpose, is now, remodeled, the Frenchroof cottage directly opposite the residence of R. F. Simmons.

Manning Richards, the father of H. M. Richards, commenced his business career about 1810, on the Cumberland road, but soon moved into North Attleborough, and continued the manufacture with such success as to become the wealthiest man in town.

John Richardson, John Fuller, and William Blackinton. They made all kinds of cut nails, running two cutting-machines and three or four heading-tools. The business here ceased in 1709, two years after Jesse Reed, of Boston, took out his patent for a machine for cutting and heading nails by one operation.

The other locality was at the upper end of the Falls Pond. Here, too, gun-barrels were polished. Some of the persons interested in this work were Sylvester Everett. Jonas Richardson, James Richardson, and Dr. Thomas Stanley.

Bricks have been made in several places in town, but few towns with so large a population have so few brick buildings within their limits. Joseph Eldredge carried on their manufacture from 1860 to 1870, making two hundred thousand per annum.

Paper boxes were first manufactured by Daniel Babcock in a shop below the Farmer's factory. The business is also carried on by his son, Cyrus S. Babcock, in the old high school building near the North Attleborough depot.

Some time about the beginning ot the present century Roger Farnum had a distillery on the south side of Elm Street, between the large elm-tree and the Ten- Mile River. Neither history nor tradition has given the amount of business done. The building was blown down in the gale of 1815 and never rebuilt.

Opposite, on the north side of Elm Street, was a tannery, the vats being in the low ground by the Ten- Mile River. At this period leather gloves and leather breeches were not an uncommon line of manufactured goods, but we are not aware that any of the leather tanned here was used for that purpose.

Near by, on the east side of the river, David Whiting occupied the first shop built on the company's privileges. Here he turned hubs and wheels.

Farther down Elm Street, but northwest of the railroad bridge, iron ore has been quarried within the memory of men now living. The ore was carted to an adjoining town and smelted. This industry soon ceased.

Nails have been made in at least two localities in town. The first was at the old factory at Whiting's Pond, by a firm composed of George Blackinton.

Combs were made in the State in the early part of the century. This industry, having its chief seat at Leominster and West Newbury, was represented in this town, Tifft & Whiting being the leading makers.

Bliss & Dean is one of the leading firms of Attleborough. The business now conducted by them was commenced in 1856, when A. M. Everett, G. A. Dean, R. Bliss, S. L. Morse, and E. S. Capron associated themselves for the manufacture of jewelry in the old car-shop, under the name of Everett, Dean & Co.

When this shop was burned, in 1858, they moved to the manufactory of Archibald Thompson. L. L. Morse and E. S. Capron sold out in 1858, and B. B. Day came into the firm in 1859. The firm-name was changed to Everett, Day & Co., and the place of business was established in its present location, "The Steam-Power Building." A. M. Everett sold his interest in July, 1867, and the firm was now Day, Bliss & Dean. B. B. Day withdrew in 1871, shortly before his decease, and the name of the firm became Bliss & Dean. The class of goods manufactured in the early days of the business was ladies' sets, bracelets, and sleeve-buttons. During the last fifteen years they have made a specialty of chains, lockets, and bracelets, all rolled-gold plated goods. They employ eighty hands.

Short, Nerney & Co. commenced business in the fall of 1876, in the manufactory of E. A. Robinson, near the depot. Moved in September, 1881, to the new manufactory of Joseph M. Bates. The members of the firm are M. B. Short, Philip Nerney, and J. J. Horton. They make a specialty of rolled gold gents' vest-chains. They employ eighty hands.

J. H. Hodges entered upon the manufacture of jewelry in E. A. Robinson's shop in 1874. In July, 1877, P. M. Carpenter was admitted to partnership, under the style of Hodges & Carpenter. In 1881 the firm moved to the manufactory of J. M. Bates, where they now make a specialty of gold Masonic emblems. They give employment to forty hands.

Hayward & Witherell employ twenty hands in the manufacture of collar-buttons and a variety of plated goods. This firm was organized Jan. 1, 1873, when Henry L. Hayward and Kelson Carpenter formed a copartnership. Mr. Carpenter sold his interest to Proctor E. Witherell, Oct. 21, 1879, and the present firm-name was adopted, with an increasing business.

Nelson Carpenter, since withdrawing from the firm of Hayward & Carpenter, has carried on business alone, first in D. H. Smith's shop and afterwards in his present location, the manufactory of J. M. Bates. He successfully employs thirty-five hands in the manufacture of pins, ear-rings, and scarf-pins.

W. H. Wilmarth commenced business in 1872, when W. H. & J. C. Wilmarth entered upon the manufacture of jewelry in Robinson's old shop, under the name of Wilmarth Brothers. In May, 1873, J. W. Luther became a member of the firm, which was then styled Luther & Wilmarth Brothers. Soon after Willard Wheeler was taken into partnership, and the business was couducted under the style of Luther, Wilmarth Brothers & Wheeler. J. C. Wilmarth, Luther, and Wheeler successively retired, and in 1876 the whole business came into the hands of W. H. Wilmarth. They first manufactured rolled plated chain, then brass and fire-gilt chain, afterwards buttons, and the present specialty is sleeve-buttons and electro-plated chain. They employ one hundred and thirty-six hands.

Harris & Fisher are carrying on business in Robinson's Union Street shop. The firm commenced work in Robinson's old shop in 1880. In the same year J. K. Ryder entered the firm, which became Harris, Fisher & Ryder. Ryder soon retired, and the original name of the firm was resumed. They employ fifty-five hands in the manufacture of chains and lockets.

Oct. 5, 1864, Dr. J. R. Bronson, who had previously bought the coffin-trimming business of Mr. Dillingham at North Attleborough, associated with him William D. Wilmarth, under the name of Bronson & Wilmarth. Continuing business there for a few months, the firm moved to the old shop on County Street, Attleborough. Dr. Bronson retired April 4, 1868, and Mr. Wilmarth continued alone until his death, March 6, 1872. The same business is now conducted by W. W. Wilmarth & Co., the members of the firm being William Howard Wilmarth and Louis J. Lamb. They manufacture coffin-trimmings and ornaments, employing an average of twenty-five hands.

A Busbee & Co. commenced the manufacture of jewelry in 1868 in one of the old shops near the station of the Boston and Providence Railroad Company, the firm then being Busbee & Bacon. The partners were A. Busbee and E. Bacon. In three years Charles H. Busbee joined the firm under the present style of A. Busbee & Co. They built and occupied their present shop in 1872. They manufacture gilt and plated jewelry, their specialty being the original separable sleeve- and collar-buttons. They furnish employment to seventy hands, and do a large business.

Smith, Crosby & Smith manufacture fine goldfront plated goods of all kinds. They employ fifty hands and fifteen engravers. Their business was established in 1872, the members of the firm being W. H. Smith, A. R, Crosby, and C. E. Smith.

Streeter Brothers started the manufacture of jewelry in the steam-power building in the fall of 1867. They moved to the manufactory of W. D. Wilmarth. They employ twenty-five hands in the manufacture of gilt jewelry, their specialty being chains.

The firm of S. W. Gould & Co. commenced business in January, 1880, in Robinson's old shop, and moved to J.'M. Bates' Union Street shop Jan. 1, 1881. They employ sixty hands in the manufacture of rolledgold plated goods for ladies' wear, - pins, drops, and sets.

Cummings & Wexel started in 1871, as E. II. Cummings & Co., in Robinson's old shop. They first manufactured fine sets and buttons. Now they employ seventy-five hands in the manufacture of sleevebuttons and charms.

The Attleborough Bank was chartered in 1836, and opened a banking-room at Attleborough. In 1858 it was removed to North Attleborough, where it is now located. The presidents of the institution, with their dates of election, are N. W. San ford, May 9, 1836; Samuel Carpenter, Oct. 2, 1837; L. M. Wheaton, Oct. 4, 1852; E. Ira Richards, Feb. 11, 1856; and Daniel Evans, Jan. 27, 1875. The bank was organized as a national bank in 1865, with a capital of one hundred thousand dollars. The institution is very successfully managed. Daniel Evans, president; Edward R. Price, cashier.

The First National Bank of Attleborough was organized in 1875. Capital, one hundred thousand dollars. The first president was Col. Willard Blackinton. The banking-rooms are in Sturdy's building, Attleborough, where the bank does a good business. President, Joseph M. Bates ; Cashier, Homer M. Daggett.

D. H. Smith commenced the manufacture of jewelry in 1865, in company with S. N. Carpenter, H. Capron, and S. Morse. Within a few years he bought the interest of his partners, and since 1869 has conducted the business alone. He now employs thirtyfive hands in the manufacture of charms and bracelets.

R. B. Macdonald began the manufacture of swivels at his house on County Street, Attleborough, soon after the war, as Edward & John Macdonald. On the death of his father, R. B. Macdonald entered upon the manufacture of swivels at Attleborough, which business he continued until 1881. when he commenced the manufacturing of gold-plated chain in the manufactory of J. M. Bates on Union Street. Number of hands employed, twenty-eight.

Watson & Newell date the commencement of their business from 1873, when C. D. Cobb, S. W. Gould, F. A. Newell, C. L. Watson, and W. A. Battey formed a copartnership under the style of Cobb, Gould & Co. W. A. Battey retired in 1874, C. D. Cobb in 1879, and S. W. Gould in 1880, when the style of the firm became Watson & Newell. They manufacture a large line of gold-plated goods, - cuff, shawl, and lace pins, and collar- and sleeve-butions. They furnish employment to one hundred hands.

J. W. Luther & Co., lapidaries, employ ten hands in lapidary work in Robinson's manufactory. They have been engaged in the business fourteen years.

Aside from Sunday-school libraries the town has the library of the Attleborough Library Association. This is a subscription library of fifteen hundred volumes, and was founded in 1864.

The public library of the Union Improvement District was established by subscription in 1869. In 1876, the subscribers gave their property, consisting of one thousand volumes of standard works, to the Union Improvement District, North Attleborough, and since that time the library has been supported by taxation, and is free to all residents in the village of North Attleborough. The number of volumes is about three thousand. Prudential Committee, Joseph G. Barden, Francis G. Pate, and B. Porter, Jr. Librarian, John Ward.

In addition to these libraries the town enjoys the advantages of two excellent weekly papers, the Attleborough Chronicle and the Attleborough Advocate. They with pen and pencil portray the busy life of Attleborough and furnish memorials on which the future explorer may lean as he takes up and brings forward the chain of history. The former was established Feb. 2, 1872, by Walter Phillips. Before the close of the year E. K. Dunbar was admitted to partnership, and the firm became Phillips & Dunbar. They were succeeded by Dunbar & Quinn. Then E. K. Dunbar became the editor and proprietor. Eliot Hunt became a partner and owner, and eventually bought out E. K. Dunbar. The paper is now published by Eliot Hunt & Co. The Advocate is published by E. H. Sweet & Co., at Attleborough.

Altogether Attleborough is a very busy place, where loafing finds it difficult to resist opportunities for work, and it has possibilities of progress unsurpassed by any town in the State.

Social Organizations. - The social organizations of Attleborough are numerous. The oldest and the only one which dates back into the last century is Bristol Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons. The lodge began its existence June 14, 1797, under a charter granted by the Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, to a membership residing in Attleborough, Mansfield, Norton, Pawtucket, Rehoboth, and Taunton. This charter bears the signature of the famous Revolutionary worthy, Paul Revere, Grand Master of the order at that time. Its speech is thus " of patriotism and courage, of civil and religious liberty, of free government," as often as the eye rests upon the ancient charter.

The lodge was established at Norton, where it held its meetings until Dec. 11, 1811, when it was removed to Attleborough. March 10, 1830, the Grand Lodge authorized it to assemble at North Attleborough.

In 1833 the prosperity of Bristol Lodge waned, and its charter was returned to the Grand Lodge ; but upon the petition of old members the time-honored document was restored Sept. 14, 1859, since which time the lodge has steadily advanced in membership and influence. Its finely-appointed hall was appropriately dedicated Feb. 9, 1876.

The names of the Past Masters since the restoration of the charter are Willard Blackinton, Samuel S. Ginnode, Charles E. Smith, John B. Maintain, Thomas G. Sandland, Obed C. Turner, Francis S. Fairbanks, Samuel H. Bugbee, Arthur E. Codding, and James A. Codding. The present officers are : W. M., Theodore B. Hazzard; S. W., Walter E. Barden ; J. W., Elton I. Franklin ; Treas., George E. Hawes ; Sec, Rev. W. Henry Kling.

Ezekiel Bates Lodge was organized at Attleborough by Master Masons from Bristol Lodge, Jan. 12, 1870, under a dispensation of the Grand Lodge of Massa- chusetts. At the expiration of the dispensation the grand officers came to Attleborough, instituted the lodge, and installed its officers, Sept. 0, 1871. The growth of the lodge has been continuous and rapid, and it now numbers one hundred and thirteen members. Officers: W. M., William J. Thompson ; B.W., D. E. Makepeace; J. W., N. Justin Smith; Treas., Fred. G. Mason ; Sec, 0. P. Richardson, Jr.

All the other ranks known to the craft have flourishing organizations in the Attleborough Council, Bristol Commandery of Knights Templar, and King Hiram Royal Arch Chapter.

The Independent Order of Odd-Fellows commenced their history here thirty-seven years ago, Aurora Lodge, No. 107, having been instituted Jan. 293 L846. The charter members were Abraham Hayward, Thaddeus Phelps, Alfred Barrows, Joseph D. Peirce, Lemuel Bishop, Daniel Evans, Benjamin F. Ham mar, and Samuel D. Forte. The first elective officers were Abraham Hay ward, N. G. ; Thaddeus Phelps, V. G. ; Albert Tifft, Treas.; and Daniel Evans, Sec. The first lodge-room was the second story of a school-house at West Attleborough. The second was Howard Hall, now completely remodeled, the home of Bristol Lodge, Washington Street, North Attleborough. The third and last is Odd-Fellows' building, which both in appearance and construction is one of the best structures in town, and a monument to the works of the order. Its cost was twenty thousand dollars.

The lodge now numbers one hundred and fifty members. Officers: N. G., H. Eugene Coombs; V. G., William D. Wennell ; Permanent Sec, Ambrose Kurtz ; Treas., Thomas C. Sandland ; Sec, David Thompson.

In process of time, with the growth of the town and increase of membership, there came a demand for a lodge of the order at Attleborough, and Orient Lodge, Xo. 165, was instituted Oct. 2, 1873, with nearly one hundred members, zealous followers of friendship, love, and truth. The lodge is making a creditable record in the charities of Odd-Fellowship. The officers are: N. G., Herbert A. Clark; V. G., Frank S. Sweet; Treas., Nehemiah Hicks; Permanent Sec, John Slater; Rec Sec, Charles W. Blackinton.

The Patriarchal branch of the order was organized in Attleborough, Aug. 5, 1840, when Howard Encampment, No. 19, commenced its somewhat checkered existence. Some time after, in the fluctuations of Odd-Fellowship, it weakened and died. The charter was restored and the encampment reinstituted Feb. 21, 1876, since which time it has enjoyed a healthy growth, and now numbers sixty members. Officers: C. P., John P. Bonnett; H. P., John Ward; S. W., David Thompson; F. S., G. Frank Jackson ; Treas., Francis G. Pate; S., Albert Totten.

No. 62, an active lodge of sixty members. The lodge occupies a hall in Barrow's block, North Attleborough, where they have every advantage that such an organization requires. The officers are: Chancellor Commander, Frank A. Bates; Vice-Chancellor, Frank W. Gardner; P., Thomas McAlpine; M. of E., Dexter E. Hawkins; M. of F., Obediah Lyon; K. of R. and S., Thomas J. Halliday ; M. at A., H. R. Packard.

Among the more recently organized beneficial associations are Washington Lodge, No. 1840, Knights of Honor; Magnolia Council, No. 121, and Massasoit Council, No. 270, American Legion of Honor; and Attleborough Council, No. 366, Royal Arcanum. All are of recent origin, but at a reasonable cost afford the best life insurance.

Washington Lodge, No. 1840, Knights of Honor, was organized by the authority of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts with nineteen charter members. The officers are Thomas Schofield, Dictator; F. S. Fairbanks, Vice-Dictator; Gardner Warren, Assistant Dictator; J. J. Morse, Treasurer; L. H. Pherson, Financial Reporter; Rev. W. Henry Kling, Chaplain ; George W. Cheever, Guide ; Henry C. Cowell, Guardian ; W. E. Barden, Sentinel. The present number of members, April, 1883, is twenty-seven.

The Attleborough Council of the Royal Arcanum was instituted by officers of the Grand Council of Massachusetts Aug. 8, 1879, with twenty charter members. The council is in a highly prosperous condition, with a membership of fifty persons. By its laws each full rate member has an insurance of three thousand dollars; half-rate members, fifteen hundred dollars. The officers of the council are Regent, Charles E. Hay ward ; Vice-Regent, S. R. Briggs; Orator, Benjamin P. King; Past Regent, Charles O. Sweet; Chaplain, Warren Parker; Guide, William Nerney ; Secretary, Job B. Savery ; Treasurer, J. Shepard Richards ; Collector, Charles A. Witherell ; Warden, Charles H. Power; Sentinel, Henry B. Linnell.

Magnolia Council of the American Legion of Honor was organized March 16, 1880, with thirty charter members. The present officers are : Commander, William H. Blaney ; Vice-Commander, M. J. Angell ; Past Commander, Dr. George Mackie; Treasurer, Job B. Savery ; Collector, A. F. Thompson ; Chaplain, M. F. Whitney ; Warden, E. A. Fuller; Sentry, George P. Williams.

Massasoit Council, No. 270, of the same order, was instituted at North Attleborough, July 30, 1880, with nineteen charter members. Officers: Commander, Thomas R. Jones ; Vice-Commander, Obediah Lyon ; Orator, Charles T. Guild ; Past Commander, William H. Barnes; Secretary, A. R. Morse; Collector, H. M. Scribner; Treasurer, H. K. Sturdy; Chaplain, H. R. Kendall; Guide, F. W. Holmes; Warden, W. P. Whittemore; Sentry, Samuel B. Hamblin. The number of members has increased since its organization to thirty.

Dionys Lodge, No. 317, is a similar association, composed of citizens of German descent. Officers : O. B., Charles Albert; U. B., Anton Braunwart ; Corresponding Secretary, Martin Klaus; Financial Secretary, Augustus Schubert; Treasurer, Robert Scholtze.

The North Attleborough Board of Trade dates its existence from December 27, 1880. It numbers sixty members, among whom are many of the wealthy and influential business men of Attleborough Falls, North Attleborough, and Plainville. Its officers are: President, Handel N. Daggett; Vice-Presidents, Henry F. Barrows, Samuel E. Fisher, and Edward R. Price ; Secretary, Fred. B. Byram ; Treasurer, Randolph Knapp.

Turning away from these benevolent institutions of the enlightened nineteenth century, but pursuing our research on hospitable thoughts intent, we come to the Attleborough Farmers' and Mechanics' Association. This society was formed in 1869, near the close of the most eventful decade in our country's history. The association soon after purchased grounds and erected exhibition buildings at Attleborough Falls. The buildings and grounds are in excellent condition, and the track is one of the best in New England. The number of members is three hundred and fifty, comprising many of the leading citizens of Attleborough and adjoining towns. The annual fairs of the association are looked forward to as the harvest festival of the year. The officers of the society are : President, Charles E. Hay ward; Treasurer, John Thacher; Secretary, Frederick B. Byram.

In about a year from that time the corporators organized by the choice of Ezekiel Bates as president and W. H. Robinson as vice-president. The corporation became depositors and workmen, and men of business soon recognized the advantages of a secure place for the saving and investing of the unemployed receipts of their industry. The number and amount of the deposits have rapidly increased from the first year of its existence. The corporators are men of business sagacity, and under their careful management this savings-bank has often been pronounced one of the soundest in the State. Total deposits, $500,000. President, Abial Codding ; Secretary and Treasurer, Edward R. Price.

An Ancient Building. - Attleborough owns one historic building, the Old Powder-House at West Attleborough. The building is circular in form, about twelve feet in diameter, and capped with a conical roof. It is built of brick, and the order of the selectmen for payment shows that six thousand were used in its construction.

" Voted to build a house for Keeping the town stock of Ammunition in for the futer, and proseaded to chose a commety for that purpose, namely, Capt. John Stearns, Capt. Daniel Read, and Capt. Henry Sweate ware chosen a Commety for that purpos, and then the commety went and looked a place to set sd house and they said that they found a place in Jacob Newell's land which sd Newell said he would give the land to build the house upon."

To confirm a promise then given, and to secure the rights of " ye People," Jacob Newell, who was at that time town treasurer, made the following entry in the town records in his own hand :

" Where as ye Town of Attleborough have agreed to Bnld a Powder house and set sd house on ye High Hill eastardly from ye Meeting-House on my Land I give liberty to set sd House their, and also for my Heirs and assigns I agree ye People shall have Liberty to Pass to and from sd House to carry their Powder or any other anmiinition and bring of again ye same at any time or times so that they in Passing Regurly Not to Leve Down fence or any Enclosen thing to Do Damage

It is inferred that the committee above chosen had full powers, inasmuch as they proceeded to build the house in October and November, and settled their account in December.

How much ammunition was stored in the edifice the records do not state. In 1775, Col. John Daggett supplied his command from its stores to capture the Tories in the Assonett expedition, and the quantity taken was replaced by a vote of the town the next year. It was a place of security for materials of war during the Revolution and the war of 1812.