Bristol County, Massachusetts - Biographical sketches (5 of 5 so headed), 1883 (part 1 of 2)

Biographical sketches

Hervey M. Richards was born on the 11th of July, 1812. His father, Manning Richards, owned and worked a small farm about two miles from the village of North Attleborough, and at the same time, having considerable knowledge of the business, augmented his income by the manufacture of jewelry, for which purpose he had erected a small shop on the farm. He subsequently removed to the village, and while keeping a small country store, continued in a small way the manufacture of jewelry, with others laying the foundation on which the town has since became the principal seat of this industry in New England.

In 1S26, Manning Richards died, and, having met with reverses, left his family without means, and upon the son, then a lad of fourteen years, devolved the duty of supporting his widowed mother and his sisters. Cheerfully essaying the task he apprenticed himself to his uncle, Ira Richards, who soon after became a partner with Draper, Tifft & Co., with whom he finished his trade at the age of eighteen years. Having learned the art of jewelry manufacture, and having during that period saved a little money, he entered into business for himself. Supplying in energy and industry what he lacked in capital, the prospects of his success and the ultimate enlargement of his business were very promising, but disaster overtook him. His little shop was burned to the ground, and nothing remained for him* but to begin the struggle anew. He immediately entered into partnership with George Morse, a good mechanic, under the firm-name of Morse & Richards, and continued the manufacture of jewelry. In this second venture he was more successful, realizing handsomely on the goods manufactured by the firm, a result largely due to his sagacity as a salesman. It was the custom in those days for manufacturers personally to carry the products of their labor and skill to the commercial centres of the country, and there find purchasers for them. This course Mr. Richards pursued with excellent success. Subsequently, Ira Richards, his son E. Ira, and H. M. Richards, formed a new firm under the firm-name of Ira Richards & Co. About 1837, H. M. Richards sold his interest and removed to Philadelphia, where he was at first very successful, but owing to unfortunate speculations he lost all his property.

In 1843 he returned to North Attleborough, and, with the assistance of his uncle Ira, again entered into the business of jewelry manufacture with success. From that time until 1857, Mr. Richards did much to promote the growth and general prosperity of Attleborough. But in the latter year, having built the extensive stone factory at Attleborough Falls, now owned and occupied by H. N. Daggett, and holding a large amount of real estate on which he could not realize, he was obliged to succumb to the panic of that eventful year.

After recovering in a measure from this misfortune, Mr. Richards, in 1863, removed his business to No. 7 Green Street, Boston, and receiving his son, E. H. Richards, into partnership, under the firm-name of H. M. Richards & Co., a large and prosperous business in the manufacture of jewelry and fancy metalwork has been established. In 1856-57, Mr. Richards was elected to the lower branch of the Legislature of Massachusetts, and in 1862-63 he was a member of the Senate.

Mr. Richards has been twice married ; first to Juline, daughter of David Capron, June 3, 1833. They had no children of their own, but they kindly adopted Eugene H. Richards, a notice of whom appears in this work, and Marion Fell Richards, wife of Charles A. Gilchrist, a jeweler at 43 Haverhill Street, Boston. He was at one time in business with Mr. Richards. They have four children, - Ellen J., Carrie L., Juline C, and Grace M. Mr. Richards married for his second wife, November, 1857, .Mrs. Anjanett P. Balcom, daughter of Remember Carpenter, of Pawtucket. R. I.

Stephen Richardson

The Richardson family, originally of Scandinavian origin, came from England to America among the settlers of Massachusetts and Plymouth colonies, and has been a numerous one in Attleborough. Several different families of this name settled here early. Four brothers - Stephen, John, William, and Seth, - were of this line, coming probably from Woburn, as we find the name Stephen and Daniel prominent for several successive generations in that town. From Stephen came Daniel, born March 1741-42. He married Sarah Read, and had three sons, - Daniel, Alfred, and Noah. Noah, father of the subject of our sketch, was born June 27, 1780. Noah was a farmer and nailmaker in fair circumstances, and lived on the east road from East Attleborough to North Attleborough, almost immediately opposite the present residence of John T. Bates. This old home of his ancestors was his residence during life, and is still in possession of the family. He had children, - Sylvester, Alfred, Silena (married Charles P. Day), Stephen, Charles B., Eliza (married Angus McDonald) and Mary C. He died, aged fifty-five years. His wife survived him long, dying in 1864, aged eighty-four. Noah was an unpretentious, quiet citizen, liberal withal, and well liked. He was buried at Attleborough, but the remains of himself and wife were transferred to Mount Hope Cemetery.

Stephen remained with his father until he was past fifteen, when he went to learn the jewelry trade with Calvin Richards, at North Attleborough, in the factory located on the grounds adjoining the Calvin Richards homestead, now occupied by Abiel Codding. Here he remained acquiring a good practical knowledge of his trade for several years, when he formed a partnership with Abiel Codding to manufacture jewelry. This was in 1836. They first occupied a small building on Elm Street, near Ten-Mile River, opposite the old Bark house, belonging to Samuel Draper; second, a small building adjoining the Preston Draper house, opposite the Wamsutta House. This firm was Richardson & Codding, and continued one year. In 1837, Mr. Richardson married Ann Janette F., daughter of Manning and Susan (Everett) Richards. She was born in North Attleborough. The young couple resided with her mother, a widow, until some time after the birth of their oldest child, Clarence H., who was born Jan. 18, 1838. They then removed to a tenement owned by Dennis Everett, located on Washington Street, in the rear of Richard Everett's residence on Elm Street. Here Frank was born in 1841. After Mr. Codding's retirement from the firm, Mr. Richardson continued business alone. When C. Richard retired from business, he took his shop, and removed his residence at the same time. He associated with him in business David Capron, under the firm-name of Stephen Richardson & Co. While here Edgar was born. Their business extending, after some time they moved their factory to the building previously occupied by Draper & Tifft, on the site where now stands C. B. Thompson's store. Mr. Richardson then changed his residence to a part of John Tifft's house. Here Janette Everett, his daughter, was born. She married Eugene K. Dunbar, son of Rev. Melzar Dunbar, of Machias, Me. Her husband was the founder of the Attleborough Chronicle, which he conducted successfully for some time. They now reside in Boston.

Stephen Richardson & Co. continued here in business until 1848 making goods, and, as was then the general custom, traveling around the county to dispose of them, sometimes selling and sometimes trading for other articles. They were fortunate. They made good work, were lucky in their designs, which were quite popular, and made money. On one " hit," a new style of ring, they made about ten thousand dollars. Their limited quarters becoming far too small, in 1848 Mr. Richardson erected a factory two stories high, forty by thirty feet, and moved thither the same year. This building necessitated the opening of a new street, which was called East Street. The same year he built the beautiful residence on the front of the same lot, which, altered in some respects, is" now the residence of his son Clarence. This was at that time the finest residence in the place. His family removed thither on its completion, and this was his home during life, and here was born his youngest son, Stephen, who died early. The partnership with Mr. Capron continued several years. They employed about forty hands, and did the largest business in their line, which soon compelled doubling the capacity of their factory. After Mr. Capron's retiring from the firm, Mr. Richardson continued alone, and with Samuel R. Miller, as Richardson & Miller, until 1856. Previous to this nearly all the representatives of manufacturing jewelers in New York City were exhibiting their goods in rooms in the Western Hotel, well remembered by those in the trade of those days. Mr. Richardson was among the first to make the new departure of a separate office and a constant supply of goods, and the firm opened an office at No. 21 Maiden Lane, corner Nassau, changing its location to 177 Broadway about 1857. In the first of his business career Mr. Richardson manufactured a variety of rino-s, pins, and chains. Afterwards a line of novelties was taken up, and this house was perhaps the very first to depart from the legitimate jewelry business and take up the making of novelties. Besides their own make of goods they handled the work of one factory at Attleborough Falls, two at South Attleborough, one at Wrentham, and became one of the largest, if not the largest, importing house of French jewelry in America, employing a resident buyer in Paris. A Philadelphia office was also established. From 1856, Mr. Richardson continued alone, confining himself to domestic goods, and giving the importing business to others. July 1, 1859, Clarence became associated with his father, and they formed the firm of Stephen Richardson & Co., which soon employed one hundred and more hands in factory, besides many outside. While in the full tide of successful and remunerative business, in August, 1870, their factory was totally destroyed by fire. This, until 1856, had been supplied with horse-power, then steam-power had been introduced. After the fire Mr. Richardson, with characteristic energy and promptitude, took rooms in the Whiting Manufacturing Company's building, and in ten days' time was at work in those quarters, and immediately began a new building on the site of the burned factory, to be three stories, main building with an L. The length of the main building was one hundred and fifty feet, width thirtythree feet, containing a twenty -five horse-power engine. This building was vigorously constructed, and they occupied it Feb. 1, 1871, with one hundred and thirty-five operatives. The business continued prosperous. They established a large export trade in Cuba and European ports, and to this business all Mr. Richardson's active efforts were given until his death, March 1, 1877. His first wife died in July, 1862, and in 1868 he married Mrs. Sarah M. Richards, widow of Egbert S. Richards, who survives him.

Mr. Richardson was a public-spirited citizen, and did much to build up the various worthy enterprises of his town. He was a large owner of real estate ; opened up Fisher Street and built several buildings. He was one of the promoters and a director of the Gas Company ; also of the Branch Railroad ; was also stockholder and for many years director of the Wrentham Bank ; was a stockholder of the Northern Bank of Providence; and purchased the site, and, with his fellow-members of the North Attleborough Building Association, erected the Wamsutta Block. We can give no better tribute to his character than that contained in the following extract from an article written by H. N. Daggett, who knew him intimately for years as boy and man: "He received from his parents, who were in humble circumstances, no property, and was compelled to struggle during his minority for the support of himself and parents. He was schooled in all the trials of poverty and want in his youth, and arose, unaided, superior to both. He was truly and in every sense of the word a self-made man. His early educational advantages were limited in the extreme, compared with the advantages and facilities of the present day. Notwithstanding these deprivations he acquired, by contact with the world and self-culture, a good business education. He possessed good natural abilities, a mind active and evenly balanced, a kind and generous disposition. At his majority he became anxious to rise in the world and improve the talents God had given him. Without money or friends »to help* him, by dint of energy, perseverance, and honesty of purpose, he succeeded in attaining a fortune and a good name. He used his wealth for his own and others' good. He possessed one virtue which was pre-eminent, charity. He was truly benevolent and generous to a fault, and was a dispenser of charity all the days of his life. Many a poor plodder of earth will sadly miss his heneficence. He was unostentatious in his distributions to the poor and needy. Of these he kept no record on earth, but are they not recorded in the book of God's remembrance ? His fellow-citizens, reposing confidence in his integrity and honesty, selected him for places of honor and trust. For nearly twenty years he was a director of a banking institution, and held many other offices. As a friend, he was constant and sincere ; as an adviser, he was conscientious and true ; as a neighbor, kind and obliging. . . . No business man has gone from earth leaving a purer record, a nobler work finished, a name more beloved, or a character more unblemished than he."

After Mr. Richardson's death his son Clarence continued the business under the same name. In April, 1882, the factory was again burned, and the business was removed to the Whiting Manufacturing Company's building, where the business is continued prosperously, awaiting the erection of a new factory.

Willard Robinson

Willard Robinson was born in Attleborough, Mass., June 15, 1799. He and his father, Obed Robinson, were for years identified with the pioneer manufacturing of Attleborough, and a personal history of the family seems not inappropriate in this connection.

Obed Robinson, one of the founders of the now extensive jewelry business of this town, was at first a blacksmith. On the outbreak of the American Revolution, however, he began the manufacture of gunlocks, under a sub-contract to furnish them for the Continental army. This did not prove remunerative, and at the close of the war he began to make kitchen clocks. He first established himself as a manufacturer of jewelry at Attleborough in 1807, employing David Brown, a skilled workman in that art. From this he began to make gilt buttons, which business soon became very prosperous. His three sons, Otis, Richard, and Willard, learned of their father his trade, and Willard, the youngest, bringing to the business a natural aptitude for mechanics, entered his father's workshop, and manifested much skill and paid special attention to the manufacture of gilt buttons. In 1821 he started in this branch for himself, and ultimately became very largely engaged in the button industry, and formed a partnership with his brother Richard, under the firm-name of R. & W. Robinson. Their operations were extended, and prosperity followed their earnest and skilled labors. Willard constructed new dies and introduced improved machinery, and having seen an "iris" button, he set to work to discover the method of producing it. In this he succeeded, and its manufacture was added to the features of the enterprise. Mr. Robinson gave the name of " opal button" to his new product. Richard Robinson died in 1838, and Willard Robinson continued the business under the old firm-name for the five succeeding years. In 1843 the fashion of gilt and brass buttons passed away, except for military clothing, black buttons becoming the style. This deprived Mr. Robinson for a while of a market, and he was forced to suspend operations.

Before Mr. Robinson's failure, Mr. Hatch, a skilled mechanic in his service, had conceived the idea of a machine capable of doing all parts of the work on a trowsers-button, beginning with the tin in bulk and following step by step to completion, without alteration in the adjustment or automatic working. By the combined study and experiments of Mr. Hatch and Mr. Robinson, a machine was perfected and patented. When the style of buttons changed, Mr. Robinson saw that this " Hatch pantaloon-button machine" might come into profitable use, and, forming a partnership with Mr. Hatch, he entered into the manufacture of trowsers-buttons with it. During the civil war they filled many contracts with the United States government for these buttons, one great advantage of which lies in the fact that they do not cut the threads by which they are attached to the garment. On the death of Mr. Hatch, Mr. Robinson, purchasing his interest, conducted the business alone on a large scale until his death, Dec. 24, 1879. It is now carried on by his son Arthur. During his life Mr. Robinson received five medals from different exhibitions, testimonials of value to the merits of his goods.

He married, Oct. 25, 1825, Rebecca W., daughter of Edward and Amy Richards, who was born at Attleborough, March 31, 1805. Their children were Ellen B. (married John C. Douglass, of Leavenworth, Kan. She died Nov. 8, 1880, leaving two children, Willard R. and Harriet R.), Jarvis W. (married J. Amelia Williams, of Pawtucket. She died Dec. 24. 1873, leaving four children, Gertrude A., Willard H., Edith J., and Ellen L.), Isabel E. (married Joseph Cushman, and has one child, Willard R.), Arthur B. (married Abby B. White, of Fall River, who died Oct. 2, 1867), Adelaide R. (married M. B. Mackrith. and has one child, Fannie).

Mr. Robinson was not only a representative manufacturer, he was more. He made his mark in every sphere with which he was connected. A publicspirited citizen, he did much to benefit and improve his town. The beautiful village of Robinsonville is largely indebted to him for its growth and prosperity, and had he been willing to sacrifice private interests for public positions, he could many times have occupied them, for he was often urged to accept them. A kind husband and father, it was in the home life that his nature blossomed in fullest perfection, although when he passed from life a large circle of friends sincerely mourned his loss. In political creed Whig and Republican, he stood with earnestness by the Union and the cause of humanity, and never deviated from the support of law, order, and justice. His widow survives him, and, like her lamented husband, occupies a high place in the hearts of the community.

The Blackinton Family

THE BLACKINTON FAMILY. William Blackinton, son of Col. Willard and Clarissa (Sweet) Blackinton, was born June 10, 1822, in Attleborough, Mass., where for several generations his ancestors have been prominent and honored citizens.

Pentecost Blackinton, the first of the name in Attleborough, came from Marblehead about 1700. His wife's name was Mary. He had at least four children attaining maturity , - Pentecost2, Mary, Benjamin, born in Marblehead, Hepzibeth, born in Attleborough in December, 1702. He had two acres of ground, cottage, and orchard on Nine-Mile River in 1711. He was a man of push and decision, and served his day and generation well, dying Sept, 24, 1715. Pentecost2 married Rebecca Figgett, and had eight children, - Pentecost3, born 1716; Rebecca, born 1717; George, born 1720 ; Anne, born 1722 ; Mary, born 1724 ; John, born 1727; Othniel, born 1729; Peter, born 1731. The father of Deacon William Blackinton, grandfather of the present William Blackinton, was Peter. He was a farmer, and was possessed of prudence, thrift, and economy, and was a good citizen, lawabiding and God-fearing, and died at a good old age. William Blackinton, born Nov. 2, 1758, was a manufacturer of guns during the Revolution, in which he also was a soldier, and wounded in battle of White Plains. After the war he became interested in cotton-mills with his son William, first at North Attleborough, next at Falls village. He was a farmer also, with quite an estate in Wrentham, on which he always resided. He was known to every one as Deacon Blackinton. He married, Nov. 29, 1781, Elizabeth Babcock, of Westerly, or Hopkinton, R. I., born Jan. 29, 1764. Their children attaining maturity were William, born Sept. 20, 1782 ; Virgil, born May 12, 1796, married Hannah, daughter of Obed Robinson, and was connected with Willard and Richard Robinson in manufacturing buttons; Jason, born Aug. 24, 1798, a graduate of Brown University, who, after receiving a legal education, passed most of his life as teacher in Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee; and Willard. Deacon Blackinton died of the terrible disease, the "plague," about 1816. He left his sons about three thousand dollars each, a handsome property for those days.

Col. Willard Blackinton, born Oct. 26, 1800, after his father's sudden decease, remained with his brother William, a farmer, on the old homestead ; received the advantages of a common-school and academic education ; had a mercantile taste, and early commenced business for himself as a merchant in general country trade at Attleborough. Continuing this a few years, he began in 1827 the manufacture of power-loom shuttles. This soon became an extensive business, filling, as it did, a long-felt want, and furnished goods to parties not only throughout New England but all the way west to Ohio, and south to Georgia and Alabama, He married, in 1821, Clarissa, daughter of Amos and Sally Sweet, of an old and honorable family of Attleborough. They had six children, - William and Willard (twins), Clarissa E. (married N. C. Luther, and lives in Attleborough), John, Charles A., Amos S.

Mr. Blackinton was not merely a manufacturer, he was more. During fifty years of his life he was one of Attleborouo-h's most active and honored citizens in almost every line of enterprise, business activity, and public service, and few of her sons have ever been more successful or so fully executed public trusts. In early life he took great interest in militia matters. Of active and vigorous temperament, large, and physically well proportioned, with a resonant, full voice, he presented a fine appearance, and held the position | of adjutant and colonel of a regiment of troopers for years. The same qualities brought him into position I as moderator of town meetings, and chairman of I popular or political assemblages, and these places he was almost universally called on to fill. He held at various times every office in the gift of his fellowtownsmen, served with credit in both branches of the State Legislature, and never did malice breathe one word against his honor or integrity. In politics a Whig and Republican, he was ardent in support of his convictions, and probably no better evidence can be given of his personal popularity and the esteem in which he was held than to state the fact that whenever there were doubts of the success of his party in \ an election he was the one to be given the nomination, and never was he defeated. He was a valued member of the Masonic fraternity, was Master of Bristol Lodge in the dark days when the Morgan excitement spread anti-masonry like wild-fire across the country, causing an almost entire suspension of lodges; and when, after a long torpidity, his lodge was revived, he was again elected to the same position. ! In these days, when chicanery, malfeasance in office, embezzlements, breaches of trusts, and frauds are so prevalent, it is pleasant to write of such a man as he who kept himself free from any kind of stain on his integrity. Of great business capacity and pre-eminent ability, he was of a social nature, a perfect gentleman in his intercourse with others, a tender husband, a loving father, and none had a greater number or stronger friends than he.

He was postmaster at Attleborough for years, receiving his first appointment in 1835, and was universally popular. He was cautious in adopting new ideas, weighed all matters in the balance of a fine judgment, and after forming an opinion was very de- cided, rarely rinding any reason to alter it. He was liberal to suffering, and in support of religious and charitable objects, and both he and his wife were worthy members of the Second Congregational Church. He was often requested to advise in business affairs, and was a valuable counselor, and always in the interests of peace. He was successful as a financier, was a director and one of the chief originators of the old Attleborough Bank, and one of the promoters of the First National Bank of Attleborough, of which he was at once elected director and president. He died suddenly of heart-disease while sitting in a meeting of the board of directors at the bank, and acting as president, Jan. 1, 1877.

William Blackinton had an academic education, and early engaged with his father in shuttle manufacturing, which was carried on for ten years as W. Blackinton & Sons, the sons being William, John, and Willard. (Charles afterwards bought an interest, and now (1882), as sole proprietor, conducts the business under the original firm-name.) About 1834, William struck out for himself, and went into cotton manufacturing, and for three years continued this at Attleborough and Pawtucket. This was not remunerative, and in 1857 he commenced to make jewelry at Attleborough. His business was small until 1869, when he took up the making of plated chains, and originated a new line of these goods, which speedily proved popular, and was in great demand, increasing his business rapidly. From this small beginning, under Mr. Blackinton's personal superintendence, it has grown to be one of the largest and most profitable businesses in the town, with an office at No. 11 Maiden Lane, New York City. The specialties are chains and lockets. It was conducted by Mr. Blackinton alone until 1873, when his oldest son, William S., became a partner, and the firm was changed to W. & S. Blackinton. In 1881 his son Lewis became a partner. His two other sons are also engaged in the shop. They employ about one hundred and sixty-five operatives, and do a business of nearly four hundred thousand dollars. This has been built by the careful attention of Mr. Blackinton, and he has shown great business ability and sagacity in bringing it to its present high standing as a firm. He has worked himself, always saw that his goods were the best of their kind, personally superintended each department, was always prompt to meet every engagement, was truthful and honest, and won the esteem of all with whom he dealt. This is the key to his success, and shows that honesty, skill properly applied, and personal industry and business integrity will always deserve and win success. He has been a man of one work, has never had time nor inclination to drift into politics or speculation, and stands to-day one of the most liberal and publicspirited citizens of his native town. In home life he is a loving and kind husband and father, and his home shows the evidences of refinement and taste.

Mr. Blackinton married Rebecca C, daughter of Josiah and Rowena (Tingley) Allen. Her mother was a Cushman, of the family of that name so prominent in the annals of Plymouth. She was born Oct. 3, 1825. Their children are William Sumner, Charles F., Harry C, Louis A., and Ada R.

Mr. Blackinton, true to his education, has never deviated from the political creed of his father, but has been a Whig and Republican through life. He has a polite address, a quick discernment of men and things, and stands high in the regards of the best element of society. He is now, with unimpaired faculties, in the mature prime of life, with many years of business life before him, and is of too active a nature to think of retiring and passing his time in idleness. Almost the only recreation he has taken was the trip to California, which he, in company with his family, enjoyed the past summer.

George Price

George Price was born in North Attleborough, Nov. 14, 1806. He was the second son of Edward and Sarah (Daggett) Price. Edward Price was born in Birmingham, England, Nov. 19, 1776, came to America in 1794, and two years later married Sarah, daughter of Daniel and Margaret (Woodcock) Daggett. He was a skilled button manufacturer, and established at Robinsonville the first button factory in this country. He founded the business now carried on by D. Evans & Co., manufacturers of brass military buttons. He lived in different houses, but various circumstances point to the house that stood on the site of Wamsutta Block as the birthplace of his son George. He acquired a considerable property in real estate.

The early death of his father made the boyhood of George Price a laborious one. From the night when his father was suddenly stricken down, and he ran out, jacket in hand, after a physician, his life was one of care, activity, and responsibility. One year in the common school constituted his educational advantages. He carried on the farm in his early years, and found time as well to work at brass-founding.

He finally chose the jewelry business, which was then becoming a prominent industry, and served his apprenticeship with Draper, Tifft & Co. For a few years he carried on the manufacture of jewelry with Calvin Richards, under the firm-name of Richards & Price. In 1830 he built the shop which now stands opposite the homestead, a very large structure for those times, and the third jewelry factory erected in Attleborough. Here Mr. Price took as partner S. S. Daggett, and began the manufacture of fire-gilt jewelry. He retired from the business in 1856, and devoted himself to his farm, to which he had been adding acre after acre. From that time forth he was largely identified with town affairs.

old. His career shows that twenty-five years after fifty is just as long as twenty-five years before, and that some men can employ both to equal advantage. In 1855 he was chairman of a committee appointed to consider the expediency of dividing the town. This committee reported the next spring in favor of such division, urging as a reason the fact that there were more than one thousand voters in town. Mr. Price could not see that the town was so populous as to be unwieldy, and the report did not receive his signature. From 1856 to 1860, Mr. Price served on the boards of selectmen, assessors, and overseers of the poor. From 1860 to 1863 he was town treasurer, to which office he was re-elected in 1869, and held until his death. During the winter of 1877-78, Mr. Price represented his district at the General Court.

From its start Mr. Price was one of the most earnest members and workers in the Attleborough Farmers' and Mechanics' Association. He was the first president, which office he held until January, 1877. He was among the first to move in the direction of securing a hall and grounds where to hold annual fairs, and labored untiringly to secure for the association the most of its present accommodations. As earnest, also, was he ever in his endeavors to rid the association of its indebtedness, and much of his time and means were devoted to its wrelfare.

So far we have u-poken of George Price only in his business and public life, but, as is ever the case, that life is the most real and important of which the public sees but little, and can know but little, the life each man lives in his own family. In October, 1829, Mr. Price married Martha Galusha Grant, of Swansea, Mass., with whom he passed more than fifty years of happy wedded life. Their children were Martha S. (who married Rev. J. D. Pierce), George G., Sarah A. (Mrs. S. N. Newcomb), William M., Corisande (Mrs. George A. Brock, deceased), Mary G. (deceased), Edward R. (cashier of Attleborough National Bank), Caroline T. (Mrs. Roswell Blackinton), and Alice M. Such are the salient facts of Mr. Price's family history, but how much a husband's and father's love has done to weave about each life influences, principles and aspirations that have served to elevate, comfort and control, they who stand in the deepest shadow of bereavement can best say.

If we were to select any traits of character for which Mr. Price was especially remarkable, it would be his activity, honesty, and fidelity to what he believed to be right. His mental activity was wonderful, and ceased only with his life. His honesty made him not less exacting with himself than with others. His accounts were always correct, his dealings always square. Crookedness in others he considered absolutely without excuse, and dishonesty of any kind he despised beyond measure. He was not hasty in his judgments, but a conclusion once reached by what seemed to him sufficient data was rarely abandoned. He was faithful to his convictions. This is illustrated by his adherence to the doctrines of the old Whig party ; he voted the Republican ticket as the least objectionable alternative, but at heart he was a loyal Whig to the last. In religion Mr. Price upheld the fundamental principles of Christianity, yet took exception to the partitions of sect, and never accepted the dogmas of any particular denomination.

Sylvan Stanley, who spent a long time in searching for the genealogy of the Stanley family, says the first American Stanley, Matthew, came from England to Martha's Vineyard, from whence some of his family went to the Connecticut Colony, and one branch to Topsfield, Mass. This last produced the immediate line of ancestry of Stephen O. Stanley. " Thomas, Nathaniel, Joseph, Samuel, Jacob, and John came from Topsfield, Mass. The last three were brothers, and settled near the Falls (Falls village, Attleborough). Thomas and Samuel were here in 1707." Jacob came about 1717, married Elizabeth Guild, and had children, - Jacob, Benjamin, Elizabeth, Deborah, Jonathan, Eliza, Solomon, Abigail, Rebecca, and one other. Benjamin married Abigail Spear, and had three children, - Jesse, Stephen, and Abigail. Stephen Stanley was born in Attleborough, was a cabinet-maker, carrying on farming also, and was agent for the Attleborough Falls Manufacturing Company for many years. He married Martha, daughter of Jonathan Stanley and Martha Pond, and had three children, - Herman, Stephen 0., and Marietta. He was an energetic and successful man, and lived to be old. His wife survived him several years.

Stephen Olney Stanley was born June 11, 1801, in Attleborough, in the house opposite No. 5 schoolhouse, where his widow still (1883) resides. He was educated at common schools and academies, but early became clerk for his father in the company's store at Falls village, aud continued in that occupation for some years, working during the summer at farm labor. He commenced housekeeping in the house where he was born, his parents living in the same house, and resided there all his days. He married, Sept. 28, 1830, Betsey S., daughter of Artemas and Betsey (Daggett) Stanley. She was born Nov. 24, 1808. Her father was born 1795, and represented Attleborough in the State Legislature in 1841-42. His father, Jonathan Stanley, son of Jacob Stanley, was deacon of the First Congregational Church of Attleborough. Mr. Stanley and his father closed their connection with the company, and Mr. Stanley devoted himself to farming, taking charge of, and finally securing the ownership of, his father's farm, and for the greater part of his life was in this avocation. Farming in New England means plenty of hard work, which the sterile soil does not reward with much more than a bare subsistence, and this was the experience of Mr. Stanley. He was an honest, upright man, perfect!}' " square" in all his dealings with mankind, and was said to be " too honest for his own good." He was an unassuming and useful member of society, reserved in demeanor, and enjoyed the esteem of all, and probably had not an enemy during his entire life. He attended divine service regularly, but was not a church member, as he did not consider himself good enough to belong. He died in 1875 or 1876. His children were Martha and Mary (twins), born Feb. 11, 1836 ; Stephen 0. (died young), Abby (deceased), Stephen, born June 11, 1842; and Benjamin, born June 3, 1848. Martha married Edward C. Knapp, lives in Attleborough, on the old homestead, and lias six children ; Mary married Andrew J. Thomas, and died in 1863. Stephen lived at home until 1861, when he enlisted as musician in the Seventh Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, and served fourteen months, when, with all other musicians, he was discharged. He returned to Attleborough, and after a few months' stay went to Taunton, then to Yonkers, N. Y., to work in an armory, next to Waterbury, Conn., where he learned the machinist's trade, and alter following that about four years, went into a large brass factory there as tool-maker, and stayed until 1871, when he returned to Attleborough, and with his brother Benjamin and E. C. Knapp started the jewelry manufactory of Stanley Brothers & Co., now conducted by and known as Stanley Brothers. This has been the title since the purchase by them of Mr. Knapp's interest in 1875. Benjamin has always lived near the old home. He married Ella Briggs, and has three children. Stephen married Sylvia A. Stanley, and has two children.

They have a well-established and prosperous business, but, like all things of value, it has been of slow growth, and has required of both of them close and persevering labor for years, but their energy and industry met with its appropriate reward, and they are doing well, with bright prospects for the future.

Samuel P. Fisher

On the old records we find Joseph Fisher, in 1664, one of the commissioners appointed by Plymouth and Massachusetts colonies to run and establish a boundary line between the two. The noted angle line was the result of their labors, and the angle tree marked by them was long standing. It was .succeeded in 1790 by a stone monument, which was erected to mark the boundary of Attleborough and Wrentham. Samuel Fisher was selectman of Wrentham at this time, and the monument was built by Samuel Fisher & Son. Thus from early days the Fisher family has been a factor of civilization in this section.

Richard1 and Samuel Fisher, probably sons of Joseph, the commissioner, came to Wrentham from Salem about, or prior to, 1700. Richard died in 1748, leaving two children, Samuel2 and Abigail. Samuel2, born in 1732, was astone-cutter by trade ; was a captain of militia in the Revolution, being called to the field while attending church with his company. He married Sibyl Farrington in 1764, and had five children, Samuel3, Darius, Schuyler, Betsey, and James. He died in 1816, aged eighty-four years. SamueP, born in 1768, became a stone-mason, and, like his father, was a diligent, hard-working man of honesty and thrift. He married, in 1789, Olive Ellis, daughter of Capt. Jabez Ellis, who was a brother soldier of Capt. Fisher in the Revolution. Both he and his wife died in December, 1815, of the terrible plague (spotted fever) which proved fatal to so many. They had nine children, Ellis, Susan (died young), Samuel P.*, Amanda (married Elijah Bacon), Sally (first wife of Hon. Elisha May), Olive (second wife of Hon. Elisha May), Schuyler, Lucy (married D. Hall), Caroline (married Albert Miller). Ellis, born 1791, married Hannah Williams, of Taunton, had four children ; Mary (married Edward Rhodes), Frances (married Joseph Sherman), George E., and Sarah M. (married (1) Egbert Richards, (2) Stephen Richardson). His descendants are numerous in this vicinity. He was one of the pioneer jewelers and a valued citizen. Schuyler became a prominent manufacturer and citizen of Exeter, was a man of great ability, candidate for Lieutenant-Governor on the Democratic ticket, and filled numerous trustworthy positions. He is now living at Hopkinton, R. I., aged seventyeight. Many of the facts of this sketch were given by him.

Samuel P.* was born in Wrentham, Mass., Aug. 4, 1795. His education was derived from the limited advantages of the common school of those days, and learned the blacksmith's trade of Enoch Arnold, under the old system of apprenticeship ; and in 1818 moved to Attleborough and commenced a long and busy life as a blacksmith in a shop near Hatch's tavern. He married Charlotte, daughter of Othniel and Chloe Blackinton, in 1820. They had two children, Harriet (deceased) and Ann (died young). Harriet married Milton W. Blackinton and had three children ; Juline F. married E. B. Waldron, of Rondout, N. Y. ; Laura F. married C. M. Thompson, has one child, Hattie ; and Anna G. Mrs. Fisher died in 1832, and the next year Mr. Fisher married Susan G., daughter of George and Judith (Guild) Blackinton. They had five children, - Win. W., Carrie A. (Mrs. H. S. Somes), Samuel E., Charles E., and Mary E. (Mrs. T. E. Sloan).

Mr. Fisher carried on blacksmithing until 1851, when he gave it up to attend to his farm and real estate business. His blacksmith-shop on Main Street, North Attleborough, was one of the old landmarks, and in stage-coach times was a common stoppingplace, and the only place of the kind in this part of

Attleborough. He was a man of strong convictions and fixed principles. It was hard to convince him that he was wrong, but when convinced he yielded at once. He was a pronounced and active temperance advocate, and consistent in his practice with his principles. He was a kind husband and father, and did for his children all that his means would allow. He inclined towards Universalism in religious belief, but never connected himself with any church. He was an old-line Whig, and a Republican from the first. He was an honest man, much respected by his acquaintances, and straightforward in everything. No one ever had difficulty in denning his position on any subject, or could accuse him of the least dissimulation or deceit. He died Jan. 6, 1863, aged sixtyseven.

William W.5, oldest son of S. P. and Susan (Guild) Fisher, was born in Attleborough, July 19, 1834, had a common school education, early learned the jeweler's trade, and has worked at it ever since, with the exception of two years passed in working in Springfield Armory. He married, Dec. 22, 1859, Nettie, daughter of William B. Pilcher, of Norfolk, Va. She died in December, 1863. In 1870 he married Lizzie E., daughter of George Miller, of East Hampton, L. I. They have two children, - Mattie L. and Susie M. He is a member of Hampden Lodge, F. and A. M., Springfield, Mass., and of Massachusetts Charitable Association. He is a member of the firm of S. E. Fisher & Co.

Samuel E. Fisher5, second son of S. P. and Susan Fisher, was born at North Attleborough, Mass., Nov. 9, 1839, and educated at the common schools of his native town and Green Mountain Liberal Institute, South Woodstock, Vt. He was clerk in employ of T. A. Barden five years and until 1861. During the Rebellion he was employed by the United States government as clerk in quartermaster and commissary departments in Virginia and Texas. In 1869 went to New York City as clerk in the office of H. F. Barrows, and continued there until he commenced business on his own account in 1874. (This business, now S. E. Fisher & Co., manufacturing jewelers, was begun in July, 1874, with a capital of seven thousand five hundred dollars, as Demarest, Fisher & Co., which, in 1877, was succeeded by S. E. Fisher & Co., with S. E. Fisher, W. W. Fisher, and E. D. Sturdevant partners. The specialties made are fine ladies' sets, pins, drops, lockets, and bracelets. Their New York office is No. 2 Maiden Lane, and they employ from seventyfive to ninety hands. They are doing a successful and flourishing business.) S. E. Fisher married, in 1872, Georgie S., daughter of Henry Clark, of New Bedford. He is a member of Bristol Lodge, F. and A. M., North Attleborough, and King Hiram Chapter, of Attleborough.

Charles Everett Fisher, third and youngest son of Samuel P. and Susan G. Fisher, was born in North Attleborough, Mass., Jan. 7, 1842. Received a common i school education at his birthplace and at the Providence Conference Seminary at East Greenwich, R. L, for about one year. Was employed in dry-goods house for about two years, and on the outbreak of the Rebellion enlisted in Company I, Seventh Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, serving the full period of enlistment in the Army of the Potomac. On discharge (in July, 1864) was employed in the War Department in various capacities until April, 1868, when he was appointed an internal revenue officer in Virginia. Resigned September, 1870, and went to Arizona, employed by the War Department in the quartermaster's department. Left Arizona in 1874, and went to Washington, D. C. (in same capacity), and remained in service until August, 1882. Resigned and went to Wyoming Territory, and engaged in cattle business, which is now his present occupation.

Joseph W. Capron

Joseph Willanl Capron, son of Otis and Hannah Capron, was born at Attleborough, Mass., Sept. 24, 1802. He belongs to one of the oldest families of the town, Banfield Capron, his first American ancestor, coming, a youth of fourteen, from England about 1675, and settling, after his first marriage, in Barrington, Mass., whence, after a residence of twenty years, he moved, with a large family of children, " away back into the woods," to what is now Attleborough, where he purchased a large quantity of land, becoming a large land-owner. Here he resided until his death, Aug. 20, 1752, at ninety-two years. He had eleven children, - Banfield, Joseph, Edward, Walter, John, Jonathan, Betsey, Mary, Hannah, Margaret, Sarah. These all married and reared families. He was married (1) to a Miss Callender, (2) to Elizabeth Blakinton, (3) to Mrs. Sarah Daggett, widow of Deacon John Daggett. Both of the last wives were Attleborough women.

Capt. Joseph Capron was a farmer and a man of repute in Attleborough in his day. He was born Sept. 12, 1691 ; married (1) Judith Peck, (2) Bethiah Burt, (3) Mary French, who survived him. He died Oct. 14, 1776, in his eighty-sixth year. He had nine children, - Amey, Diedema, Judith, Joseph, Rhoda, Judith, Hezekiah, Ebenezer, Elijah.

Joseph Capron, Jr., son of Capt. Joseph and Judith Peck, was born in Attleborough, November, 1722, and died Aug. 1, 1784. He was twice married, (1) to Sarah Robeson, by whom he had seven children, - Ezra, Samuel4, Samuel2, John, Judith, Sarah,

Joseph; (2) to Sarah Foster, by whom he had eight children, - Asenath, Susannah, Otis, Tabitha, Sabra1, Sabra3, Esther, Milla (five of these died young).

Otis Capron was born in Attleborough, April 17, 1767, and died March 3, 1845. He was a farmer and an honored and useful citizen, and served his day and generation well. He was honest, industrious, and simple in his habits, and unostentatious in his life. He was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, serving at Newport. He married (1) Rachel Sweet, who died Dec. 15, 1799, leaving three children, - Sally (Mrs. T. French), Nancy (Mrs. Lucius Daggett), Otis (died young) ; (2) Mrs. Hannah Bliss, widow of Jonathan Bliss, whose maiden name was Kent. Their children were Joseph Willanl, Maria (deceased), Sabra A. (deceased), Hannah K., Rachel Cemantha.

Joseph W. Capron, of whom we more particularly write, had the educational advantages of the common schools of Attleborough, supplemented by attendance at the preparatory department of Brown University. He was an apt student, paying particular attention to surveying, and when but seventeen years old began to teach school at sixteen dollars per month. As a teacher he was successful, but he soon was employed, even while a student, as a surveyor, and from 1818 to the present has every year done more or less in that capacity, and early won a valuable reputation for thoroughness and accuracy. He has made it his principal business through life. In 1827 he surveyed all the roads in Attleborough, Pawtucket, Seekonk, and Rehoboth, and in this work he was engaged about a year. The same year he was elected and qualified as town surveyor. In 1828 he was employed by the State of Massachusetts as assistant surveyor on the route of what is now the Boston and Providence Railroad. He has ever been a Democrat, and unswervingly has followed the teachings of the great apostles of that faith, Jefferson and Jackson, and has ever believed that the perpetuity of the republic depended on a strict adherence to the principles enunciated by them, and has voted for every Democratic candidate for President since his first vote, which was cast for Jackson in 1823. His fellow-citizens have honored him not infrequently with important trusts. He has been justice of the peace (appointed) for over fifty years, was elected county commissioner three terms, selectman, overseer of the poor, and assessor several terms. He has been a careful and shrewd financier, and enjoys a handsome competency to supply the needs of life's last years. He has been president of the Attleborough Mutual Fire Insurance Company for years, was president of Loan and Fund Association of Attleborough, and is now the president of its successor, "The Loan and Savings Association of Attleborough," and is treasurer of the Norfolk and Bristol Horse-Thief Detective Society, and president of the Gas-Light Union Company of Attleborough since its organization. He married, in 1824, Adeline Bliss, granddaughter of the reputable Dr. James Bliss. She died March 19, 1872. Their surviving children are Isabella A. (Mrs. Amos Ide) and Ellen Maria married (1) George E. Payson, (2) George W. Curren. He married, Oct. 14, 1872, Cynthia, daughter of Joseph and Betsey Blossom, of Fairhaven, Mass.

Mr. Capron has ever possessed vigorous health, which has largely been promoted by his active life. He has never employed a physician for himself, and never has known a sick day. He will now, at eighty years, with his favorite instruments, go out, and, without apparent fatigue, do days' works that would appall much younger men. A short time since he walked from Pawtucket to his home in Attleborough, nearly nine miles, after eight p.m., and he says " could have walked back easily without resting."

For over half a century Mr. Capron has been personally identified with the public interests of his native town, and largely instrumental in its prosperity, and, to-day with much of the vigor and elasticity of early manhood, is actively engaged in whatever may tend to elevate or improve its business or its population. He enjoys the esteem of all the better elements of the community for his personal worth and business integrity and ability.

Lyman W. Dean

In slightly tracing the biographies of most of the men of whom special notice has been taken in this department of our work, we have had occasion to note the fact that many eminent among them were much more indebted to their own unaided efforts than to adventitious circumstances, not of their own direction, for the high social and political distinction to which some of them have been called.

We have also explained what, in our opinion, has been the influencing cause, namely, that the genius of republicanism creates the will to do homage to the aristocracy of mind alone, while the advantages of family or wealth are held as nothing if not blended with an intelligent virtue in the possessor. Mind makes its own elevation, commands its own recognition and admiration, be its source from among the depths of poverty or cradled among the down of wealth and luxuriance. It is the glory and strength of this great republic. Its power is ratified by the people, whenever its object is seen to be good and properly directed, and the case of the gentleman whose name heads this article stands as a prominent evidence of a popular appreciation of a self-gleaned intelligence, honorable alike to the possessor and those who have recognized it.

Ephraim Dean, grandfather to the subject of our sketch, removed from the town of Taunton in early life, and became one of the pioneer settlers of the district now known as Attleborough. The place where he pitched his tent in the then wilderness is now known by the name of Deanville, of which he became proprietor, as also of a large surrounding tract of land, on which several very valuable water privileges were to be had. This patriarch married a lady (Martha Balcomb) worthy to be a helpmeet to a man of enterprise such as he proved himself, and bore him children, Asa, Ephraim, Patty, and Sarah. The sons long conducted a manufacturing business upon the estate alluded to, under the name of Ephraim and Asa Dean, the latter of whom was the father of Lyman Washington Dean. Asa Dean was born at Deanville in 1759, and died Dec. 25, 1815. He was twice married, first to Phebe Wilmarth, by w7hom he had six children, five of whom are living; second, to Chloe Bourn, daughter of Andrew Bourn, and had seven children, four of whom were living at his death. Asa Dean was a leading business man in his day, and a Democrat in politics.

Lyman W. Dean was born on the 22d of February, 1805 (the birthday of the immortal Washington), consequently he was seventy-seven years of age last birthday. When eleven years of age his father died, leaving him and three sisters, two younger than he, to the care of a surviving mother, who also had devolved on her the charge of a large and unproductive real estate. Mr. Dean remained on the farm, spending his time in rural pursuits until he was about seventeen years of age, when his mother gave up the care of the estate and removed to a factory in the vicinity, where two members of the family found employment. The only pride Mr. Dean was taught to possess was that which arose from the exercise of an honest industry, and he found full scope for its indulgence during eighteen months when he worked in the mill at the trade of a mule-spinner, which was then a more lucrative business than it is now. During that period, although not then of age, he was permitted to act for himself and to dispose of the fruits of his own industry. Every subsequent step he thenceforth took in life exhibited to him the disadvantage of very much neglected education he had received, and which neglect he attributed solely to himself and his unwillingness to profit by the privileges he had at one time within his power.

Thus seeing his neglect, he set about regaining lost ground with a diligence characteristic of the future man. For one year he devoted himself to a varied course of study in the common school primarily, and latterly in the seminary at AVrentham. Such was his natural ability to study, aptitude to learn, and commendable diligence at his tasks, that on leaving the academy he had a recommendation from the principal to teach the English branches in the common schools. He taught school first in Rehoboth, where he conducted his duties much to the satisfaction of his constituents. In the spring of that year his mother returned to the farm, and he left his situation as instructor to undertake its management. From that period up to 1835 he continued to labor at farming during the open seasons, and to teach in the winter months. In the intervals he taught school in Attleborough, Taunton, Canton, and Dedham, where he was peculiarly happy in giving satisfaction to the parties interested. A more important duty, also, meantime devolved upon him. He married Maryette Ingraham, daughter of Ezra and Eloisa Richardson, April 8, 1833. She was born May 31, 1807, in Attleborough. They had four children, - Henry L., born April 17, 1834, died July 3, 1857 ; he left one daughter, Mary W., who died at sixteen ; Frank, born Dec. 29, 1837 ; Sebra, born Dec. 9, 1839, died Dec. 11, 1842 ; and Sebra Ingraham, born Nov. 4, 1849, died Nov. 24, 1849.

The temperance cause found in Mr. Dean one of its most enthusiastic advocates, and in 1835 he was solicited by the proprietors of a temperance hotel in Attleborough to take charge of the establishment. This solicitation was founded on a thorough knowledge of the sterling character for integrity he possessed, as well as on his reputation as an unwavering supporter of the temperance movement. He was induced to accept the offer made him, and entered upon his occupation in connection with the hotel, which he now owns and manages.

It is but justice to Mrs. Dean's reputation to state here that her peculiar qualifications to manage the domestic details of a large establishment of the sort furnished a liberal share of the inducement prompting the proprietors to offer the charge of the hotel to Mr. Dean.

Soon after entering on this business the post-office was placed under his charge in 1837, and this he continued to hold for twenty-four years except a short interval. He was also appointed agent at the railroad station, and held the same for thirteen years. A freak of fortune, as a friend of his designated it, enabled Mr. Dean to make a purchase of his hotel in 1837, which transaction involved a large sum of money, as the estate was then very valuable, and is much more so now. Up to 1850, Mr. Dean continued to fill his offices of host, station agent, and keeper of the postoffice, from the latter of which he was removed, in opposition to the almost unanimous remonstrances of his fellow-townsmen, in the year mentioned. The situation was Avorth about three hundred dollars per annum. The station agency he resigned on account of the pressure of his other duties. The propriety of this step will be recognized when we state that, besides the above occupations, he kept a livery-stable in connection with his hotel establishment, ran the first line of stages eight miles from the railroad station (it takes a railroad to do the business to-day), and acted for fifteen years as a bank director. He received the appointment as a notary public, which appointment came unsolicited by him from the late Governor Briggs, and which he held for more than forty years. Receiving such an important privilege from a party opposed to Mr. Dean in political matters, must be considered highly complimentary to him as a citizen. With such a variety of offices, and the responsibili- ties they included, it is not wonderful that Mr. Dean refused to accept various local public offices offered him. So soon, however, as his leisure seemed to tolerate the hope of accepting his public trusts, his friends nominated him a candidate for the Senate in 1848. The divided state of political parties at that period hardly held out even a remote hope of success, and disappointment was consequently not great on account of failure. In 1849 he again received the senatorial nomination, but was compelled to decline the honor. He was a third time nominated for the same office in 1850, shortly after having been removed from the post-office, and when public interest was excited in his favor to a more than usual degree on that account, and was elected, and accepted the honorable position assigned him by the citizens of his native county.

We have now to add a few words relative to his political character, as it is appreciated by all parties. One prevailing feature in the public conduct of Mr. Dean was strict, open-handed honesty of purpose. He was appreciated as a Democrat of the most liberal stamp, and was well known as not ashamed or afraid to utter his sentiments in behalf of his party tenets. His advocacy of the more important questions before the Senate while senator was on behalf of a Democratic principle which he desired to ramify all his public acts. In expressing his views on any article of public policy he had peculiar facility in the choice of language, and a very happy mode of applying it. His general knowledge of the details of public affairs enables him to speak often and always with acceptance. Some may argue more logically, and construct their theories on a more strictly mathematical basis, but few have the power of rendering their arguments more plain to the general comprehension. He was sheriff of Bristol County under Governor Boutwell for the years 1851 and 1852 ; justice of the peace more than thirty years ; collector of internal revenue three or four years, and collector of pensions and bounties till the present time. He voted for Abraham Lincoln for President of the United States in the fall of 1860, and has since acted and voted with the Republican party, though he still maintains the same general principles he always advocated. He is one of those who holds that the Democratic party has left him, and he not the party. In 1871 he settled in the house where he now resides. He has made his money principally in real estate and stocks, and is now considered one of the wealthy men of Attleborough.

Mr. and Mrs. Dean are members of the Congregational Church, of which she has been a member for more than fifty years. The accompanying portrait represents him in the prime of life.

Lyman White Daggett

The subject of this sketch, like most of the name in this town and in Connecticut, are descended from John Daggett, who came to Attleborough from Chilmark about 1709 with a family of nine children, consisting of Mayhew, Ichabod, and others.

Deacon Mayhew was the father of Elihu, who became a very respectable elder in the Baptist Church. He also held a commission as captain in the provincial militia, and with two of his sons, Mayhew and Ichabod, was engaged in the fight in 1758 of Col. Bradstreet, which resulted in the capture of Fort Frontenac, together " with nine armed vessels, sixty cannon, sixteen mortars, and a vast quantity of ammunition." The circumstance of the elder's participation in this battle is given, as frequently related by his son Elihu, then a lad of some thirteen years. The two sons had been absent some time in the war, and no news had been received from them. The father said, in his anxiety, " If I hear nothing in a week I will go and find them." Nothing was heard. He shouldered his musket, reached the seat of war, found a battle raging, entered the action, and after the victory discovered his sons as participants with himself in its glory.

From the elder sprang Adjt. Elihu Daggett, born Dec. 4, 1745, an industrious and upright citizen, for many years a faithful teacher of youth, long engaged in the culture of his estate, where, in 1796, he erected the dwelling-house lately so beautified and improved by its present occupant, H. N. Daggett, Esq. The adjutant was a minute-man in the Revolution, and as such started for the field at the alarm given from Bunker Hill. He died June 14, 1833.

Capt. Elihu Daggett was the son of the above named, born Feb. 24, 1785. He pursued for years the culture of the soil as a means of his livelihood ; was a faithful husband and a tender parent. He was a devoted member of the Masonic institution, walking in its light and rejoicing in its promises. Nov. 28, 1810, he married Miss Lucinda White, of Pembroke, Plymouth Co., Mass., a lineal descendant of Peregrine White. Her father was Capt. William White, a faithful soldier of the Revolution, present at the surrender of Cornwallis, and engaged in many battles during that fearful struggle.

Capt. Elihu Daggett was exceedingly fond of mili- I tary exercises. Few employments afforded him more pleasure than trainings and the discipline of soldiers. In the war of 1812 and 1815 he commanded a company for a brief period, stationed at Plymouth, Mass., and after the close of that strife, on his return home, ; was instrumental in the formation of the Washington Rifle Company, for some time under his command, distinguished as one of the finest and best-disciplined companies in the brigade. He died Jan. 25, 1871.

Lyman White Daggett was the only son of Capt. Elihu, born July 28, 1812. He was educated in the schools of his own town, eagerly seeking the benefit ot

After availing himself of all the advantages afforded at home for an education, he became a member of Phillips Classical Academy, at Andover, Mass., enjoyed its rich opportunities, faithfully improved the facilities there afforded the honest, struggling student, and left with the. respect, benediction, and warm recommendation of its renowned principal, the late Osgood Johnson, Esq.

For some eight years subsequent to this period Mr. Daggett was successfully engaged as a teacher in public and private schools, then he became pastor of the Universalist Church and parish in Holliston, Mass., and June 8, 1842, married Miss Nancy G. Fuller, daughter of John and Nancy Fuller, a leading and influential family of Wrentham, Mass. Mr. Fuller's mother was Mary Maxcy, a daughter of Josiah Maxcy, and a near relative of the distinguished Jonathan Maxcy, president of Brown University. Three children have been born to them, of whom only one remains, since two have been already called to the home above.

Subsequently Mr. Daggett preached in Andover, Mass., and in Woodstock and Hartland, Vt. As a preacher, he was regarded clear and sound in the exposition of his subjects, apt and close in the application of truth to the hearer's heart. His faith was strong and unchanging in God, Christ, and immortality. In pastoral labors he was ever faithful, visiting his people to do them good, seeking their homes in periods of sadness, misfortune, and sickness, to perform labors of love, to spend and be spent in their service.

On the death of his mother, in 1848, he resigned his place at Hartland, Vt., removing to Mileton Falls., Mass., where he has since resided, engaged in the successful pursuit of agriculture.

Like many others, Mr. Daggett has been to a moderate extent in public life, having filled the offices of selectman, overseer of the poor, assessor, and town clerk for several terms. He has also often been a member of the school committee. In 1851, 1852, and 1853 he represented the town in the Legislature. As a member of the Legislature, he was a friend and advocate of prohibition, of the mechanics' lien law, of homestead exemption, of the secret ballot, in fine, of all enactments calculated to promote home rule, free votes, and honest counts. He has always been true to temperance, speaking on all suitable occasions in its advocacy, and living in the practice of total abstinence from all intoxicants for more than fifty years past. It need hardly be added that Mr. Daggett voted for Mr. Sumner for United States senator with hearty pleasure, and contemplates his act with everincreasing satisfaction.

The subject of this sketch is now in the enjoyment of good health, pursuing his peaceful calling as a cultivator of the soil under his own vine and fig-tree, " having none to molest or make him afraid," while he awaits the summons of the Divine Spirit.

W. D. Whiting

The earliest recorded mention of a member of the Whiting family is that of " William Whytyng," who was in the year 1333 taxed as a citizen of Boston, in England.

John Whiting was mayor of that borough in 1600 and in 1608 ; he also held the office of vice-admiral of Lincolnshire in 1602. His son Samuel was a minister of the Established Church, but being unwilling to conform to all the usages of that church, and being complained of therefor to the Bishop of Norwich, finally emigrated to the American colonies, and settled (1636) in Lynn, Mass. His posterity constitute one branch of the American family of Whitings.

Most of those bearing the name of Whiting originating in Wrentham, Hingham, Plymouth, etc., as well as all the Dedham stock in that line, have descended from this Nathaniel.

He was undoubtedly related to Samuel, above mentioned. He (Nathaniel) was one of the sixty-eight proprietors of land in the infant settlement of " Contentment," afterwards called Dedham, the land being described in the deed or grant of conveyance (1642) as " upland ground, fit for improvement with the plow."

He was one of the first settlers of the town (1635). In 1641 a foot-path was laid out to the first " watermill" that had been established in the precinct, and soon after the mill, and all lands, privileges, and appurtenances thereto belonging, were conveyed by deed to Nathaniel Whiting by Rev. John Allin and John Dwight. For more than two centuries gristand saw-mills located on this same site have been owned and improved in propria persona by lineal descendants of the grantee.

In Mann's "Annals of Dedham" repeated mention is made of members of the Whiting family. Isaac Whiting was town clerk at the beginning of the Revolutionary war. His term of service was continued for six years. Others were selectmen, assessors, and overseers of the poor, and were continued in these responsible positions for many years. As a general thing, the family have been devoted to agricultural pursuits, and some of the finest tracts of lands in the town have been owned by them for many successive generations. Nov. 4, 1643, Nathaniel Whiting married Hannah Dwight. The Dwights were among the original settlers, and presumably of considerable note, from the fact that the stream connecting Charles River with Neponset had from the first been known as Dwight's Brook. The ancient church records say of Capt. Timothy Dwight that " he was a gentleman truly serious and godly ; one of an excellent spirit, peaceful, generous, charitable, and a promoter of the true interests of the church and town." His son Timothy was a much-respected president of Yale College.

David1 and Mary, his wife, came from Dedham to Attleborough, probably in 1733 or 1734; they bought a farm and woodland, which remained in the Whiting family until a few years ago.

William Dean Whiting, son of Lemuel and Nancy (Blackinton) Whiting, was born in Attleborough, Mass., Dec. 23, 1815. His father was a farmer, was an industrious and hard-working man, who prided himself on the superiority of his cattle, of which he had very fine ones, mostly oxen, with which he did a large amount of moving buildings. He married Nancy Blackinton, of the honorable family of that name which has from 1700 been prominently connected with Attleborough. They had four children, - Mary A. B. (Mrs. Samuel Kent, of Seekonk, deceased), Nancy (died young), William D., and Levi Willard (deceased). He died when William was about seven years old, leaving his wife in limited circumstances to bring up her young family, which, like a true New England mother, she succeeded in doing. Young William was early compelled to rely on himself for support, and commenced a life of many years of successful labor when eight years of age by doing chores, riding horse, etc., for his uncle, Artemus Stanley, for his board. Here he stayed one year. When ten years old he engaged with Mr. Whittemore, a farmer, to work for his board, and remained with him two years. Returning then to his mother's home, he began to work by the day, as opportunity offered, for twenty-five cents a day until he was fourteen. He was then apprenticed to Draper & Tints, jewelry manufacturers, to learn their trade, and for six years he steadily applied himself to thoroughly master it. Mr. TifTts, his uncle by marriage, pleased with his attention to their interests, took especial pains with him, and he became very proficient in all departments.

After learning his trade Mr. Whiting remained with the firm one year as journeyman, then dull times came on and work was scarce, so he employed himself in chasing gilt buttons for R. & W. Robinson for a time; then for a short period was employed by Draper & Blackinton in chasing gilt jewelry. In or about 1837 he had acquired such a reputation for skill, steadiness, and reliability that he was offered, and accepted, the position of foreman in the shop of H. M. Richards, at East Attleborough. Mr. Richards made enameled jewelry, imitations of French goods. Not long after this he removed his business and machinery to Philadelphia, Pa., and thither Mr. Whiting accompauied him, superintending the removal and setting up the works in the new location, and continuing as superintendent. He stayed two years in this capacity with Mr. Richards and his successor, Mr. Garrett. He then began business for himself in a modest way, manufacturing jewelry, principally hearts and crosses. This was in probably the most depressed financial times this country ever saw, and there was almost nothing done, and that poorly remunerated, so in a few months he had come fully to the conclusion of removing to St. Louis and trying his fortunes in the great West. This he was not to do, however, for just then Albert C. TifTt, an old Attleborough acquaintance, made him a proposition to return to that town and join him as partner in the jewelry business there, Mr. John Tifft (of the old firm of Draper & Tifft) to be their financial backer. Up to this time, owing to the dullness 6f the times, the labor of Mr. Whiting had not given much substantial result; but the value of faithful working and systematic economy had been so strongly impressed upon his nature as to affect his whole subsequent life. This time was doubtless the pivotal period of his life. After careful thought and mature deliberation he gave up his contemplated Western trip, and accepted Mr. Tifft's proposal. In 1840 they formed the firm of Tifft & Whiting, manufacturing jewelers. Two aspiring, honest young men, "chock full of day's work," with a joint cash capital of five hundred dollars, they despised not the day of small beginnings, and laid the foundations of future success by industry and care. They began to make gold goods, - hearts, crosses, ladies' and gentlemen's finger-rings. Their shop was a small room in an old blacksmith-shop on the bank of

Ten-Mile River, on the Boston and Brovidence turnpike, in North Attleborough. Mr. Tifft wasamachinist, and knew nothing of practical work in jewelry, so Mr. Whiting had all the responsibility of the shop. They had two workmen, - Willard, brother of Mr. Whiting (who had previously learned his trade of him), and Peter Bishop, a former employe of his in Philadelphia. As a contrast to the present, we would say that all Mr. Whiting paid Mr. Bishop, a skilled workman, on first hiring him, was five dollars per week. Mr. John Tifft first sold their goods, but after a short time Mr. A. C. Tifft would go to New York as salesman, and on his return Mr. AVhiting would go to Boston and other markets in New England. They determined not to run in debt. All the monetary aid they received was from Mr. Tifft, as promised before they entered into business, and all he did was to get one note of one hundred and fifty dollars discounted at the Wrentham Bank, and this they paid out of their business when it matured.

Their trade soon became too large for their small shop, and in eighteen months' time had assumed such proportions that they were forced to build a new building. This they were determined to build large enough to contain room for their work for all time, and they erected a two-story building twenty-five by forty, for which they paid eight hundred dollars. Into this they moved, and soon found they needed some power to supersede the slow process of hand labor and facilitate the manufacture of goods. By this time they were employing thirty to forty men and doing a good business. Previously to this the Beaver Dam Cotton-Mill and Factory of Draper & Tifft had burned, and in February, 1847, Tifft & Whiting purchased the site and water privilege, paying two thousand dollars for it. They at once put up a portion of the present Whiting Manufacturing Company's building, making it of stone, ninety feet long, forty feet wide, and three stories high. Mr. Whiting gave this building his personal superintendence, and put in improved machines for polishing, rolling, etc., by power. They occupied it the same year, opening it with seventy-five operatives, which soon became one hundred and one hundred and fifty.

Wishing a safe depository for their goods, they added forty feet more in length to their building, and in one corner constructed a strong stone safe eight feet by twelve and the height of the building, with doors in each story. Mr. Tifft, after some years' continuance of the firm, was satisfied with the fortune he had amassed, and wishing to retire sold his interest to Mr. Whiting, Jan. 1, 1853, for which he was paid ninety thousand dollars in cash. The business was in the full tide of success, and was very profitable. It stood in the front rank of the business firms of the country, and with Sackett, Davis & Potter, of Providence, was the first jewelry manufactory to establish an office in New York City. These firms took offices side by side. In his own name, and afterwards as W. D. Whiting & Co., Mr. Whiting continued to do a flourishing business for years, with offices in Philadelphia and Boston also. Soon after removing to the stone building he had added the manufacture of silver combs for ladies ; gradually other articles were added, until this branch became an immense business of itself, and resulted in what is now one of the largest houses in the country, the Whiting Manufacturing Company. This was organized as a stock company of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars capital, and afterwards the capital stock was increased to two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. Mr. Whiting was elected president, and the manufacture of silver entirely superseded the jewelry business, which was closed. The duties of his position kept Mr. Whiting busily employed, and he had but little leisure. After the burning of their works in 1875, the building was rebuilt as it now stands, two hundred and fifteen feet in length ; but they soon removed to New York City, whither Mr. Whiting removed also to give his personal attention to the fitting up of shops, removal and putting up of machinery, engine, and boiler, etc. Commencing Jan. 1, 1876, in February of the same year the new works were occupied and rapidly turning out work. After a residence of five years in New York, Mr. Whiting returned to North Attleborough.

He married, Dec. 17, 1839, Rebecca Damon, daughter of Pitt and Lucy (Damon) Butterfield, of Dedham, Mass., where she was born May 8, 1818. They had three children, - William Osborne (a beautiful child of brilliant promise, who met an untimely death by drowning at four years of age), Frank Mortimer, Josephine S., and Florence R.

With the exception noted above, Mr. Whiting has all his life resided in his native town, and, known of all men, is universally esteemed for his sterling worth, honesty of dealing, integrity, modesty, and unostentation. He has stood on every round of Fortune's ladder, and in his old age, with all the wealth his faithful labor and business ability of years has brought him, can look back and proudly say that not one dollar has been acquired unjustly. He is one of the best types of a self-made man ; has started many " boys" on the same road he has trod, first, by taking them as apprentices; secondly, by his kind and fatherly advice, giving them more valuable aid than that of money; and to-day many of them hold a loyal friendship for the kind old friend whom they reverence almost as a father. Mr. Whiting is in accord with the highest elements of society, and is one of Attleborough's most valued citizens. His success is the result of steady industry, careful economy, business thrift and enterprise reaching over a long period of years, coupled with a determination to give honest value to whatever he made. He has never had time to meddle either with politics or speculation, and has steadily refused all public positions, but is a Republican in political belief.

Frank M. Whiting, born April 21, 1849, was educated at Norwich Military University, at Northfield, Vt., and graduated in the class of 1868. He entered his father's shop, where he worked about a year, then he was called as assistant in the office, first in Attleborough then in New York, and afterwards was traveling salesman for several years. He started in business in North Attleborough, in 1878, with two others, in the manufacture of jewelry, under the firm-name of Holbrook, Whiting & Albee. This firm continued two years, when his father bought the interests of Holbrook and Albee, and the firm became and still continues Frank M. Whiting & Co. Its specialties are small silver-wares, novelties, and jewelry. They employ about forty hands. While Frank attends to the traveling and selling, his father superintends the shop.

Frank married, June 21, 1881, Florence L., daughter of Edwin and Dorcas (Doane) Hancock, of Wrentham. They reside with his father in the beautiful home he built on the William Blackinton homestead in North Attleborough, where he has lived since October, 1857. They have one daughter, Marion D., born Dec. 17, 1882. "

Abiel Codding

Abie/ Codding, eldest son of Abiel and Cloe (Daggett) Codding, was born in the town of Rehoboth, Mass., Jan. 29, 1817, and at one year of age came with his parents to the eastern part of Attleborough. His paternal grandfather was James Codding, a native of Taunton, Bristol Co., Mass., whither his ancestors had come at an early day. James was a farmer by occupation. He was a true American, and fought for our independence in the Revolutionary war. He married Joanna Eddy, and had three children, viz. : David, Abigail, wife of Wheaton Barrows, and Abiel, father of the subject of our sketch. Both Mr. and Mrs. James Codding spent their last days with their son Abiel in Attleborough, Mass. They lived to be far advanced in years, and their children attained the remarkable age of nearly ninety years. Abiel Codding, youngest son of James, was born in Taunton, Mass., Oct. 27, 1792, and died in Attleborough, Oct. 3, 1881. His boyhood was spent at home on his father's farm till he was fourteen or fifteen years of age, when he came to Attleborough, and worked on a farm by the month for Seneca Sanford. He was very industrious and frugal, and strictly temperate in all his habits. He married Cloe, daughter of Elihu Daggett, and to them were born thirteen children, of whom eight grew to maturity, viz., Cloe (deceased), Abiel, Almira (deceased), Joanna (deceased), Mary Ann, David D., Harriet N., and Emily. Mr. Codding was a wellto-do farmer in Attleborough, where he lived for more than sixty-three years, leaving an example of industry and sobrietv well worthv the imitation of the present generation. In politics he was a Democrat of the Jeffersonian school. He was a soldier of the war of 1812, and drew a pension for his services. His name will long be remembered as one of the most upright and honorable men in town. His wife, born Dec. 12, 1792, died March 22, 1855.

Abiel Codding, the immediate subject of our sketch, was reared on the farm in East Attleborough till he was sixteen years of age. His advantages for an education were such as the common schools of his town afforded. Being of a mechanical turn of mind, he early turned his attention to the jewelry business. Hence at sixteen we find him in the employ of H. M. Richards, one of the pioneers in the jewelry business of this town. He remained with him some three years, when he formed a copartnership with Stephen Richardson (deceased), under the firm-name of Richardson & Codding, and was thus employed a short time when they dissolved partnership, and Mr. Codding continued his trade as a journeyman, making valuable improvements in the different kinds of tools used in the jewelry business. In 1839 he went to Philadelphia to work for his old employer, H. M. Richards, but remained but a few months, when he returned to North Attleborough and entered the employ of Ira Richards & Co. In 1842 he formed a copartnership with Ira Richards & Co., the firm retaining the old and well-known title. This firm had a house in New York City, and was there known as Ira Richards & Co., but their interest in Attleborough was known as Richards, Codding & Co. This firm manufactured all kinds of jewelry, besides " hooks and eyes." It grew from a very small beginning to be one of the largest, if not the largest, manufacturing interest in Attleborough, employing some two hundred and twenty-five hands some of the time, and their sales amounted to many thousands every year.

Mr. Codding was naturally a mechanic, and by close application to his business he attained a degree of success acquired by few. He made valuable improvements in manufacturing, and obtained several patents for new tools. About 1850 he built his present fine house in North Attleborough, where he has since resided.

In politics he is a Democrat, but seldom takes a lively interest in political matters. He is a director of the First National Bank of North Attleborough, and president of the Savings-Bank of Attleborough ; also president of the North Attleborough Gas-Light Company. It will thus be seen that the people of his town repose confidence in him.

He married Ann Maria, daughter of Calvin and Olive (Blackington) Richards, Oct. 28, 1841. She was born in Attleborough, Aug. 16, 1819. Of this union the following children have been born, viz.: Arthur E., Ella M. (deceased), James A., Edwin A., and Ellen L. (deceased). All the sons are in the jewelry business, under the firm-name of Codding Bros.

The subject of this sketch was born in Attleborough, Jan. 27, 1821. His father, Hon. Ebenezer Daggett, was largely interested in the manufacture of cotton goods, was prominent in local affairs, and at the time of his death represented his district in the State Senate. The son, after completing his education at Wrentham Academy, moved to Boston, where he served a short, unprofitable apprenticeship with a relative, after which he returned to Attleborough, formed a partnership with his brother, H. M. Daggett, and together they purchased the mills at the Falls and carried on the manufacture of print cloths for a number of years. This partnership terminated in 1856. About this time Mr. Daggett conceived the idea of making braid in this country, and started a few braiders at the Power Company's shop in Attleborough. Requiring more room, he had moved into the mill at Farmer's, and was also occupying the shop atrDeantown.

The braid business had never before been attempted on this side the Atlantic, but now the time seemed most opportune for it. The civil war seriously interfered with the importation of these goods, but the demand for them was constantly increasing. Mr. Daggett saw his golden opportunity and grasped it. He must have more room. He repurchased the mill property at Attleborough Falls, which he had sold to H. M. Richards in 1855, and filling it with the best of American braid machinery he commenced the work which has resulted so advantageously to both the individual and the public.

On moving to Falls village, as it was called, Mr. Daggett's first business was to establish order. Previous to his coming it was no uncommon thing for the rowdy element to take possession of streets, sidewalks, stores, or public meetings, to the terror and exclusion of better people. Under his energetic treatment the roughs either left town or subsided into peaceful citizens. Through his influence a post-office was established, and with his aid a church was built, and other public improvements pushed to completion.

Up to 1868 a stage-coach was the only passenger conveyance between North and East Attleborough, and all freight for the former was hauled over the road in teams. In January of that year Mr. Daggett requested a few gentlemen to meet at his residence, the purpose being to secure a railroad between the two villages. This was the origin of the Attleborough Branch Railroad. Within one year from the time these gentlemen held the meeting the work was completed, and the cars were running over the road.

In the mean time American braids had outgrown the prejudices of the consumer, and the demand for them had so increased as to require the mill to be run both day and night, employing, of course, two sets of hands, and the annual product had reached to upwards of sixty thousand miles of braid. At this time Mr. Daggett had an arrangement with J. C. Morse, of Boston, under which the manufactured goods were sold by Mr. Morse on joint account, he supplying the yarn and Mr. Daggett furnishing labor and machinery. In 1869, Mr. Morse became seriously embarrassed, necessitating an abandonment of this arrangement. Mr. Daggett's fortune went down with the wreck, but he had an ample capital in his energy, courage, and determination. He at once formed a partnership with Austin Dunham, of Hartford, and George S. Moulton, of New York. This connection, a very happy and successful one, terminated in 1873, and thereafter until 1879, Mr. Daggett conducted the business alone, when, feeling the need of relief from the engrossing cares of business, he disposed of the stock and machinery to a company, in which he retains a large interest, and of which he is president and treasurer.

Mr. Daggett has added largely to the value of his mill property, and improved the appearance of the village by building a number of tasty cottages and three large jewelry-shops, and one fine store.

The shops get their power from the mill, which is equipped with a powerful steam-engine, although its main dependence is upon the water-power, which for ten months in the year is one of the best in the State.

Mr. Daggett's home is one of the most attractive in the town, from without giving evidence of taste and refinement, and from within of healthful home and social influences.

The Richards Family

Thomas Richards, the first of his name in New England, was born in Dorchester about 1590, and according to Rev. Abner Morse, who compiled a history of the Richards family in 1861, was a man of standing in the mother-country and one of the principal men in the new. He was a merchant and dignified by the title of " Mr.," a high honor in colonial days. He was a lineal descendant in the seventh generation of James Richards, of either Somerset or Devon County, England, and hence a descendant of Sir Richard Richards, " Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer and often President of the House of Lords," an inheritor of the Richards manor in Wales, and whose ancestors were spoken of, says Mr. Morse, as the " ancient possessors" in 1550. This old mansion is still standing, and with it is connected an extensive estate.

Thomas Richards' children were John, " Worshipful and Major/' who married a daughter of Governor Winthrop, and who was one of the most eminent men of his time in the colonies (Judge Richards died in 1694); Thomas, "Esq.," who died in 1648-50; Mary, who married Thomas Hinckley, Governor of Plymouth; Alice, who married Maj. William Bradford, Deputy Governor of Plymouth, and several others.

Edward Eichards, a nephew of Thomas, Sr., came to Dedham in 1635-36, when that place was colonized by the "principal planters" from Cambridge and Watertown. Mr. Morse says, " He was received as one of the proprietors of Dedham in 1636-37, then embracing the territory of nine present townships, and became the sixty-second signer of her social compact. On ye 17d. of ye 5 mo., 1640, he was received into ye church, giving good satisfaction," and his wife Susan was received 19 (11), 1644. With this church they walked blameless through life.

In 1641 he took the freeman's oath, and in 1646 was chosen selectman, and by annual elections served nine years. Edward Richards began life with more means than most of the planters of Dedham, and left his descendants good estates. The proprietors having adopted the rule of dividing their lands generally according to estate, he drew an uncommon amount in no less than fourteen lots. In 1648 his county rate was above the average, and in 1651 his house was valued at eighteen pounds, when only twelve in Dedham were valued higher. He died in 1684.

John Richards (2d) son of Edward, was born in 1641 and died in 1688. In 1667 he was received into the church in Dedham, and took the freeman's oath in 1670. In 1672 he married Mary Colburn, of Dedham, a daughter of Nathaniel and Priscilla Colburn.

John Richards (3d), first-born of "the seven children of John (2d)," the Rev. Mr. Morse says, "married Judith Fairbanks, had the homestead of his father in Dedham." Of one of their sons, Mr. Morse says, "Joseph, Col., A.M., M.D., settled in Dedham and became her principal citizen. He married, Aug. 10, 1726, Mary Belcher. She was born July 23, 1701, died Jan. 19, 1746-47. She was the daughter of Rev. Joseph and Abigail Belcher, a minister of Dedham. He married second, March 2, 1748-49, Elizabeth Dudley, daughter of William and Elizabeth Dudley, of Roxbury. She was born May 16, 1724, died Nov. 1, 1805. Joseph died in 1761. John Richards (4th generation), son of John Richards (3d), was born June 12, 1698, and married Abigail, daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Avery. He had two sons - Edward and Nathan - who were the first of the name to settle in Attleborough. He had other sons and daughters.

Edward Richards5, the first of the name in Attleborough, was. born in Dedham in 1724, and married, in 1756, Mary, daughter of James and Hannah Fisher, of Dedham.