Plymouth County, Massachusetts - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 19 of those read), 1884

Chapter with an unread heading (no. 19 of those read)

Burying-Groimds. - The custom of buryina the dead iti public places pi-evailed amon^ the most ancient nations. The Rorauns ob.servcd this custom in the earliest days, and in tiie more flourishing; periods of the republic they burnt their dead, and only buried their ashes in urns. The ancient Germans deposited their dead in groves consecrated by their priests, and with the introduction of the Christian religion consecrated places of burial have been appropriated fur that purpose all over the world. Christians of all deoominatious are beginning to regard the burialplaces of their friends with that reverence due to the departed.

Few evidences of a more refined sentiment can be found more marked than the selection of beautiful and choice grounds for the final resting-place of their friends. The once cheerless and gloomy aspect of our old burying-grounds has become attractive by the removal of all noxious weeds, thistles, and briers, and the yards neatly laid out with walks " round about."

Ill the early settlement of the country burying-lots were selected more witli regard to convenience than for looks. Now beautiful spots of ground are selected in retired localities, in some shaded grove, or in some rural locality. Costly monuments are erected without regard to expense. Formerly, after the bodies were buried, the care of the grave ceased. Now neat headstones are erected, and beautiful flowers are kept in bloom over the remains of loved ones.

Probably the first burial-place in Brockton was that situated on the westerly side of the main street, leading from the Centre to Campello, and but a short distance from the residence of the late William Tribou. These grounds are of small size, and contain one tomb, and that of ancient date. In this yard many of the headstones are broken, or rough and irregularly placed, and some covered with moss, rendering the names quite illegible. This yard shows how little regard so many in the community pay to the final resting-place of their friends. It would .seem as though the friends and posterity of tlio.se buried there would try to improve a spot so exposed as that, on one of the public streets of the town. A few trees set out would change the appearance very much, and a trifling expense in rearranging might make it quite attractive. We hope ere long to see some improvements in that direction.

Another yard was situated nearly opposite the Salisbury House, Campello, which was a very small family yard belonging to a few individuals. The first person buried there was Jonas Keith, the former owner of the land, who died of the smallpox. The occupants or proprietors of this lot have removed the remains of their friends to the new Union Cemetery. There was a family tomb in the yard belonging to the heirs of the late Simeon Keith. This lot uas small, and situated quite near many houses, and was in so exposed a condition that it was given up as a burial-place .several years since.

There is still another quite large burying-ground at the north end of the Centre, funning the corner of Main and Ashland Streets. This is an old yard, and is well filled with graves. How long this has been used for the purposes of burial we have no means of knowing. It is, however, one of the oldest in the town, and, like the first mentioned, needs care and some expense to make it attractive. There is one tomb in this yard erected by Col. Caleb Howard.

There is also another burial-ground near the residence of the late Ezekiel Merritt. This is probably quite an old spot, and is not much used of late, very few families being interested in the lot. The grandfather of William Cullen Bryant and others of the Bryant family lie buried here.

Following Belmont Street to the west till we come near the mill at Tilden's Corner, on Liberty Street, we find a neat little yard, fenced with a substantial stone wall, with but a few graves in it, and those that are there seem to exhibit some care.

There is also a burying-ground in the easterly part of the town, on Pine Street, near the residence of the late Samuel Packard, in very good order.

On Summer Street, near the residence of the late John Thompson, is another small yard, inclosed with a substantial stone fence, in wliich are several graves of comparatively recent date.

Melrose Cemetery. - Traveling on the road from Brockton to Stoughton, on the Taunton tuinpike, we find a moderate-size spot of ground set apart for burial purposes, under the above name. In these grounds is one tomb belonging to the heirs of the late Capt. Lemuel Packard. This yard has the appearance of neatness, and is a very desirable location for a cemetery.

In 1848, Messrs. Chandler Sprague, Esq., and William F. Brett purchased a lot of land containing about fifteen acres, of Azel Packard, extending from

Centre Street ou the uorth to Crescent Street on the south, and bordering upon Sprague's Pond on the west, for tlie purpose of a cemetery. The land was divided into lots, walks, and avenues, and sold to various individuals for burial purposes.

The followiug persons were organized into a corporation under the name of Union Cemetery, Oak Grove, of North Bridgewater, April 27, 1S49, naiucly : Benjamin Kingman, George B. Dunbar, Abel Kingman, George W. Bryant, David Howard, Chandler Sprague, Francis M. Frencli, Bobert Smith, Lorenzo D. Hervcy, William P. Howard, Edward Soutiiworth, Jr., Charles S. Johnson, and William P. Brett.

The cemetery was consecrated by appropriate exercises May 21, 1849, at which Rev. Daniel Huntington, of Campello, delivered an able address appropriate to the occasion.

There is also another cemetery on the north side of Court Street, near Perez Southwortli's, containing about three acres, which is occupied by the friends of the Crttliolic persuasion, under care of Rev. T. B. McNulty, called St. Patrick's Cemetery.

Hearse. - In the early history of towns we find it was customary to carry the remains of departed friends to the grave upon a bier made for that purpose. It was usually carried upon the shoulders of men selected for that service, who were called bearers. Upon tiie introduction of carriages an effort was made to procure a hearse to take the place of the bier.

In a warrant calling a meeting of the North Parish in April, 1818, we find an article "to see if the parish would build, or cause to be built, a hearse or decent carriage to carry tiie dead to a place of interment, and a building to keep the same in." " Voted not to act upon the article.''

Judging by a vote passed in November, 1828, we should suppose that a hcarso and house were built by private enterprise. The vote is as follows : " Voted to accept of the hoarse and house as presented by the proprietors to the town of North Bridgewater, and that said town will pay the balance due to Captain David Ames for building said house, amounting to fifty-two dollars."

The house stood on the old church green until Aug. 10, 1835, when tlie parish voted to have it removed on account of building the parsonage house.

Nov. 4, 1850, a committee was chosen to-day to repair the old or build a new hearse. Franklin Ames, Eliphalct Kingman, and Unci Richmond were the committee. A new hearse was procured during the year, and is the one now owned by the town.

March 18, 1788, at a meeting held this day in the North Parish "to see if the parish will vote to purchis a burying cloath, and choose a man or men to purchis the same," it was "voted that the picciiiet committee purchis a burying cloath, aud the}' use tlicir Discresion in that afair."

Town Pound. - In the early settloment of the towns throughout the province swine were alluweJ to ruu at large, upon their being properly yoked, between April 1st aud October 15th, and '- ringed in the nose uU the rest of the year," under a penalty of sixpence each. Also all sheep running at large, and not under a shepherd, between May 1st and Octuber olst to a fine of threepence each. The several towns could, by vote of a majority, allow them to ruu at large, but when they voted not to have them run there was need of a place to put those who should violate the law and break into corn-fields or private iuclosures. In 1608 a law was passed requiring towns to make and keep a pound, as follows :

"That tUero shall be a suUiciL'nt jiound or pounild made and umintained, from time to liiiio, in every towit and precinct within thi:i province, iu :juch part or places tliercut' as tlie selectmen shall direct and appoint, at a oust and cliargc of such town and precinct, for the impounding or rcstrainin;^ of any swine, neat cattle, horses, or sheep as shall be found dainage-fca:iunt in any corn-tield or other enclosures; or swine, unyuked or unringod, neat cattle, horses, or sbecp guin;^ upon the couimou, not allowed to feed there by the major part of the I'ropriety," etc.

In accordance with the above retiuiremcnt the town of Bridgewater maintained a town pound from its first settlement, and when it was divided into precincts each precinct was required to erect one within their limits. The North Parish (now Brockton) being a law-loving and law-abiding people, erected one upon or near the meeting-house green, which remained till 1828, when, by a vote of the town of North Bridgewater (now Brockton), it was removed. April 7, 1828, the followiug record appears on the town books: " Voted to accept the offer of Benjamin Kingman, which is to furnish the town with a pound for forty years, and remove the stone of the pound for his own use as a compensation."

When the lands of our fathers were wild and unfenced, the "cattell," "hoggs, "sheap," and "bosses" were allowed to run at large in the fields and roads, and then the cattle were usually marked in some way, generally by a slit in one or both of the cars, and the marks were recorded upon the records of the town, and a bell was also attached to their necks. The hogs were either " yoaked" or had " wrings" in their noses to prevent their doing damage, aud the

As the country became settled, people began to fence their lots and farms, and swine were placed in small pens, the sheep placed in fold.s, and the cattle inclosed in lots used as pasture.

Lock-up. - The next thing in order should be the lock-up. Provision having been made for penning cattle and other animals, there was also a need of some place in which persons committing ciiinus, and who could not take cave of themselves, could be placed fur safe-keeping, or be kept until they could have a trial.

The number of such persons was very few previous to about 1852, when the town voted to provide a place for the safe-keeping of criminals. The first place provided was the building that had previously been used as a hearse-house, which was fitted for that purpose, and used till 1857, when the town voted to dispose of the lock-up, and provide a suitable place for the safe-keeping of criminals upon the town farm.

Again, Nov. 30, 1857, the town " voted to ciioose a committee of three to build a lock-up for the detention of criminals, and that said committee be and are hereby authorized to purchase or lease a lot of land within the limits of the Watch District." George B. Dunbar, Elijah H. Joslyu, and Lyman Clark were the committee, who proceeded to erect the same upon a lot of land purchased of \V. Holliston Whitman, a short distance south of Crescent Street. The building is built of brick, with cells fitted with iron bedsteads, bars, and bolts, in a durable form. The building was inclosed by a board fence several feet high. There is now a regularly organized police established in the city, and a lock-up was made connected with the police-station.

Poor. - Until within a few years it was the custom of the different towns of Massachusetts to " vendue the poor ;" that is, to sell the support of the poor to the one who would do it the cheapest. The last vote we find on record in relation to selling the poor in the town of Brockton was April 1, 1822, as follows: " Voted that all paupers who cannot by themselves or friends procure a home, to be put out at public auction or private sale, for one year from the 15th iust., the remainder to be provided for by the selectmen."

In ISUO the propriety of building a house for the use of the town, and to provide a place for the poor, was brought to the attention of the citizens in town-meeting, and a committee appointed to examine and report concerning the expediency of purchasing a poor-house. Mark Perkins, Caleb Howard, Esq., Eliphalet Kingman, Jonathan Gary, and Bela Keith, Esq., were the committee, who reported that the subject of purchasing a town farm was worthy the attention of the town. Accordingly, April 4, 1831, Benjamin Kingman, Micah Packard, and Abel Kingman were appointed a committee with full power to purchase a house and land fur the use of the town's poor. April 25, 1831, a farm was purchased of Benjamin King, Esq., in the easterly part of the town, consisting of ninety-four and threequarters acres of land and buildings thereon, formerly known as the Deacon Jacob Fuller farm, fur the sum of two thousand six hundred and tweuty-Qve dollars. A superintendent was appointed yearly to manage the farm and take proper care of the poor. Deacou Jacob Fuller was the first person placed iu charge. Thcron Ames, Josiah Dunbar, Westou Simmons, Colwell Jones, and the present superintendent, Howard, have had the management since the first. A board of faithful and trusty overseers of the poor are annually elected by the town, who have the general oversight of the poor and provide for their wants, and we are satisfied that the poor of the town are well cared for. This farm, with additions made by purchase at different times, is the present City Farm, consisting now of one hundred and twenty-five acres. The old buildings having been out of repair and unfit for almshouse purposes for some time, the matter of better accommodation has been a subject of discussion for some years.

By vote of the City Council, in 1883, the joint standing Committee on Public Property and the Overseers of the Poor, acting jointly, were authorized to contract for a house and barn, and cause the same to be erected on such a location on the City I Farm as they may select. Acting under this vote, a I location was selected on the west side of Thatcher Street, and June JJth the committee advertised for bids for the erection of the buildings. Nine propo.sals were received. They were opened June 23d. John F. Beals being the lowest bidder, the contract [ was awarded to him July 6th, he contracting to build and complete (excepting heating) the buildings for I eleven thousand three hundred dollars. The contract j for heating was later awarded to R. G. Shepard, for 1 the sum of seven hundred and fifty dollars.

admirably adapted for the business, beioj; heated thioup;hout by steam, ample hospital accommodations in the upper story of the main house (a necessity which has long existed), pleasant, well-ventilated slecpinsr-rooms, complete arrangements for cooking, hot and cold water in wash-room, - in fact, every arranu'ment for the proper care and comfort of forty inmates.

The barn is well fitted, having accommodations for eighteen cattle and several horses, and ample conveniences far their care. The city is to be congratulated upon the completion of these buildings, and that the poor can be well provided for.

Warning out of Town. - The people in ancient days resorted to various means to prevent immigrants coming into town from becoming chargeable upon the public. A custom much iu use in the town of Bridgcwatcr was to notify or warn the parties moving into the town "to depart hence." We insert a copy of one handed to us as a specimen of early notions :

Town-House. - The first town-meeting in the town of North Bridgcwatcr (now Brockton) was held iu the meeting-house of the First Congregational Church, in 1821 . Since that time the meeting has been holdeu ill the various public halls in the village. Several attempts have been luade to see if the town would build a house suitable for holding town-meetings. The first move in that direction was in 18-13, as appears by vote of the town Dec. IG, 1843. At a meeting held on that day to see if the town would purcha.se the Second Congregational meeting-house, it was " voted to choose a committee of three to consider of the matter, and report at a future meeting." LJenjamin Kingman, Jesse Perkins, and Eliphalet Kingman were the committee. In 1847 the subject was brought before the town at a meeting held in ^lay, at which it was " voted to postpone building a town-house at present." Again, " Marcii 11, ISoU, Bela Keith, Esii., Jesse Perkins, Esq., Col. Edward Southworth, Caleb Copeland, Marcus Packard, Isaac Hartwell, and Capt. Henry French were chosen a committee to procure a plan of a building, and the probable cost of the same, also the subject of purchasing a lot of laud, and report at a future meeting." A report was made, and, Sept. G, 1850, the committee were instructed to purchase a lot of land of William P. Howard, which was done. The lot situated opposite II. W. Piobinson's store, corner of Main and Centre Streets, the lot on which Bryant's Block stands, and Brockton's elegant pust-ofiice, was purchased of Mr. Howard for the sum ol' tiftuoii hundred dollars. April 30, 1855, the town voted to authorize the selectmen to sell the town-house lot at public auction within thirty days. The lot was sold to Mr. David F. Studley and others fur three thousand and fifty dollars.

Telegraph. - The first electric current that passed through the town of North Bridgewater (now Brockton) on wires was in 185G. The line was run from Boston to Myrick's Station, on the line of the Fall River Railroad. The proprietors were Messrs. Brewer and Baldwin. At first the nearest olEce to this town was at Bridgewater. A short time had elapsed after ihc completion of the wires when an ell'ort was made to have an office established nearer to this town, and through the efforts of Franklin Ames, lvs.|., oiio was opened to the public May G, lS5(i. The following is the first message to the citizens of the town, and was from the editor of the Barustub/r /'iihiul, to the editor of the Nortli Bridgewuttr GitzcUc : "To Gkoiioe I'uinney:

"We con;;ratuhite you, and others of Nortli lirid^ewatei-, on tho openinj^of a teleyniph-olHce at your plaee. I am hapiiy to skaku hands with you this I'.JI. God bless and iirusper you.

" We reeeive your congratulations upon the oeca^inii of opening a tclegraph-otfiee here witli hcarti'elt pleasure. May the connection this day ert'eeted between North nriilgewater aini Capo Cod never bo severed. With the hope that the Union may be preserved, " I remain youis truly,

Telephone. - The Brockton Telepiione Company's business was started in April, 1878, by building a line from Brockton to Cumpello, one and one-half mihs distant.

Ill 1880 a company wxs organized fur the purpose of establishing a line to Boston and local extensions, with a capital of ten thousand dollars, which was afterwards iucreased to seventeen thousand dollars. Col. John J. Whipple was president ; George E. Bryant, Henry E. Lincoln, Augustus T. Jones, and D. T. Burrell, of Brockton, with C. D. Nash, of South Abington, and C. A. Stearns, of Boston, directors; Charles W. Sumner, clerk and treasurer.

Boston Herald, May 27, 1881, the eveiiiu;.^ on whicli the line was completed. Thus tlie city of Brockton is in coinujuuication with the outer world by telephone to any point within speaking distance.

Stages. - Who is there that does not recollect how the old mail-coach sounded as it rattled over tlie stone roads from Brockton to Boston, first tri-weekly, then daily, carryinjr the mails ? IIow the people gathered around the driver to catcli the latest news on the route, fur a staf^e-dviver was the greatest man of the age. Hoar the crack of his whip as lie reius the horses up to every person's door, and piles on the trunks and bandboxes. Now the iron horse takes the place of horse-flesh, and steam the place of outs and hay.

The first public stage that ran through or from Brockton was about 1820; it was a joint-stock company, of whom Siliis Packard, Esq., of Brockton, SetU Alien, of Halifax, Capt. Nathaniel H. Cross, of East Bridgewater, and Capt. Asa Pratt, of South Bridgewater, were part owners. It consisted of a twohor.se carriage that was formerly used by Governor Phillips as a private carriage. Col. Nathan Jones, of Brockton, was a driver for one year. It started from Bridgewater three time.s a week. After running about two years, the company sold their interest to Messrs. A. M. Withington and Burr, who afterwards sold to Nathaniel Blake and Wheeler. Soon after Mr. Wheeler sold his interest to Jacob Churchill, and he to Newton Hodges, who continued to conduct the line with Mr. Blake. At the time Mr. Withington bought of the company, Col. Jones left the line and started a twohorse coach from Brockton, running from that place on jMondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, in and out from Boston the same day. While Col. Jones was running his coach, Mr. John Madden, of Randolph, put on a coach to run from that place to Boston. Sir. Madden and Col. Jones soon put their teams together and ran from Brockton for two years. At the end of that time they ran their coach to Bridgewater. ^Messrs. Hodge and Blake continued to own and run the line, carrying tiie mails from Bridgewater through Brockton, they running one day, and Mes.srs. Jones and Madden running opposite days. Mr. Blake then sold his interest to Col. Jones, and he to John Long, who continued till the opening of the railroad.

An opposition coach was started in 1837 or 1838 by Jabez Gould, and ran to Boston daily from Brockton Village till the " Stoughton Branch Railroad" was built, when he ran in connection with the cars; he ceased to run when the " Fall River Railroad" began to run their cars, in 184(5. Another line of coaches passed through the " West Shares" in the

S. D. Butler commenced running a line of coaches in connection with the Stoughton cars, from the Sali>bury House, Campello, Oct. 2, 1854, but continued fur a short time only. May 13, 1857, A. S. Porter commenced a lino to Boston three times a week, and in the middle of next month commenced to run a daily line. I. Tisdale, of Stoughton, and Juliii (J. Hudson, of East Bridgewater, ran a coach from Stoughton to Plymouth for a year or more about twelve years since. There was also a line of stag.s connecting at Bridgewater with a coach for New Bedford, owned by Pelatiah Gould, that passed through the town to Boston tri-weekly about the same time.

Post-Offices. - The first po.st-office established in Brockton was in 181G. The following are the names of the postmasters from 1816 to the present time :

Joseph M. Hollywood is the present postmaster. A post-office was established in the west part of the town in 1828, called Northwest Bridgewater, now " Brockton Heights," with the following appointments :

Previous to the establishment of a post-office in the North Parish and the running of a niail-cuacli, the letters and what few newspapers people had in those days were brought to town by post-riders,' market-wagons, and other private conveyances fruin Boston. At the time of the incorporation of the town of North Bridgewater (now Brockton), in 1S21, a regular established line of mail communication having been provided by the government, there was one mail per day from the city, and since the mail has been carried by railroad there are six mails each way daily.

Previous to 1850 the people of Campello had for some time hired the mail for that village brought down to them by a special messenger, for distribution at the store; but finding the business increasing to such an extensive amount daily, a few public-spirited individuals of that place petitioned for the establishment of a separate post-office. This was granted to

Albert Keith has held that office for several years, and is the present incumbent. The post-office at Brockton is one of the best-arranged offices in the country, having the must approved boxes, and in a tine brick block owned by George E. Bryant, Esq.

Public Buildings, Blocks, Halls, Etc Chaptek Xxiii

Masonic. - Paul Revere Lodge op Iuiee .a.nii Accepted Masons. - This lodge was in.-,ticuteJ Feb. 5, 1856, and is in a flouvisliiiig cotiditiuii, with a prospect of exteuded usefulness under iis exeellent officers. The original petitioners were Lueien 1>. Keith, George Clark, Lorenzo D. Ilervey, Koheit Smith, Alexander Hichboru, Jonas 11. Perkins, Esq., Augustus Mitchell, David Cobb, Thomas May, Samuel Howard, and Hiram Packard.

The following were the officers at the foruiatiou of society: Lueien B. Keith, W. M. ; George Clark, S. W. ; Lorenzo D. Hers'ey, J. AV. ; Augustus Mitchell, S. J). ; Alexander Hichborn, J. I). ; Robert Smith, Treas. ; Jonas R. Perkins, Sec. ; Iliram Packard, S. S. ; Thomas Mayhew, Tyler.

Satucket Royal Arch Ciiaptku. - The following persons petitioned for a chapter of Royal Arch Masons, which was granted Dec. 7, IbGi) : Charles C. Bixby, Baalis Sanlbrd, Jr., Francis M. French, Enos H. Reynolds, Loring W. Puffer, Francis B. Washburn, Davis S. Packard, Francis A. Thayer, Samuel B. Hinckley, L. Bradford Howard, Alfred Laws, Rufus E. Brett, Allen Crocker, Jonas R. Perkins, Peter F. Hollywood, Francis ^L Sylve.--ter, E. I. Packard, W. S. Gurney, James H. Cooper, lleury A. Brett, Edgar E. Dean, E. Wilson Morse, William W. Cross, Benjamin R. Clapp, J. D. Mitchell.

The following is a list of the first officers : Baali.s Sanford, Jr., H. P. ; Charles C. Bixby, K. ; Francis M. French, S.; Alfred Laws, C. of H.; Enos H. Reynolds, P. S. ; E. Austin Packard, R. A. C. ; James H. Cooper, M. 3d V. ; Davis S. Packard, M. 2d v.; Charles A. P. Mason, JL 1st V. ; Francis A. Thayer, Treas. ; Jonas R. Perkins, Sec. ; George G. Withington, Chap. ; John Underhay, S. S. ; Veranus FilooD, J. S. ; Hiram D. Keudrick, Tyler.

Bay State Commandf.ryof Knights Te.mplak. - A special assembly of the Grand Coiumandery of JIassachusetts and Rhode Island was called to meet at Brockton, Mass., June 24, IbT-i, for the purpose of constitutiug the " Buy State Conimaudery." The day Was all that could be desired, a gala day for Brockton ; bright uniforms and beautiful banners made a grand display, which, together with fine music, the .scene was not soon forgotten. The assembly met in Music Hall, where were the ceremonies. A banquet was served in Murray Hall, which was in the style for which the citizens of Brockton are famous. This was the first public iutroduction of Knights Templar Masonry into the town.

Veranus Filoon, T. I. M. ; A. Cranston Thunipsoii, Dep. ; Edward S. Powers, P. C. W. ; Davis S. Packard, Treas. ; Baalis Sanford, Rec. ; Charles C. IJi.xhy, C. of G. ; Edward Parker, Jr., Con. ; Rev. Samuel Hodgkiss, Chap. ; Enos H. Reynolds, M. ; James Edgar, St. ; Stephen W. Leighton, Sent. Meet un the third Friday of each mouth, in " Masonic Hall," City Block, Main Street.

Number of members in 1884, sixty-two. Massasoit Lodge of I. 0. of 0. F., No. 69. - This lodge was instituted in June, 184U. Among the members of the society were the following persons, who held some office at its beginning: Robert Smith, Waldo Bradford, James F. Packard, Cephas W. Drake, Ellis Packard, Samuel Webster, Luntnzo D. Hervey, Lorenzo Dillingham, T. S. MiiL-liell, and Aaron B. Drake.

In 187G, Ellis Packard, Noah Chesman, Lorenzo D. Hervey, Horatio E. Paine, Rufus E. Brett, Oakes S. Soule, and George R. Whitney petitioned for a new charter, which was granted, and they were reinstitutcd by Rev. A. St. John Chambre, deputy, Feb. 10, 1S71. The following were the first officers of the lodge : Noah Chesman, N. G. ; Lorenzo D. Hervey, V. G. ; Rufus E. Brett, Sec. ; Oakes S. Soule, Treas.

Membership, two hundred and twenty-five. Meetings every Thursday, in Odd-Fellows' Ilall, Howard Block, Main Street. Nemasket Encampment, I. 0. of 0. F., No. 44. -

Beatrice Lodge, No. 28, Daughters of Rebeccah.. - This lodge was instituted on Tuesday, Feb. 15, 1S7G. Officers of the Grand Lodge officiating.

This organization is established " for the encouragement and support of brothers in sickness, out of employment, or on travel, to the amount of two thousand dollars. For the practice of charity, the inspiration of hope, and the protection ol' all good." Constituted by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, Caleb H. Sprague, 6. JNL W. ; Hugh Doherty, G. R. ; July 8, 1881.

Junior Order United American Mechanics. - Satucket Council, No. 0. This council was instituted at James' Hall, by officers of the State Council, Tuesday, Feb. 1, 1881. There were about thirty members present, and others proposed to join. The following is the list of officers :

United Order of the Golden Cross. - G.vit field COMMANDEUY, No. 158. This eommandery was instituted by J. H. Morgan, Deputy Grand Commander of Massachusetts, on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 18S1. The objects of this order are to unite fraternally all acceptable persons for social pleasure and improvement; to give moral and material aid, by encouragement in business and aid when in distress, and provide a fund for the family of a deceased member. The following were the officers for 1881 : N. C, N. S.

The officers of tliis association are as follows: Joiliua yi. Jeuney, President ; Rufus E. Packard, Vice-Pre^iderlt ; George C. Holmes, Secretary ; Elmer

Knights of the Maccabees. - This order was first introduced into Canada, where it was instituted and organized Aug. 7, 1878, tiie object of which is " Brotheriiood, and to make provision for deceased members. " A " Tent" iu Brockton was orgauized May -IJ, 1879, with the following officers :

United Fellowship. - Star Council, No. 10, organized Sept. IS, 1882. William F. Jones, P. D. ; Dr. E. Arthur Dakin, D. ; Dr. William P. Chisholm, V. D. ; Charles W. Kingman, C. ; Charles D. Fullerton, Sec. ; William S. Noyes, Treas. ; Mary Smith, I. ; E. Bradford Jones, G. ; Eunice Blanchard, W. ; 0. S. Sweetser, Minerva Chisholm, Mary C. Puffer, Trustees; C. S. Simpson, Hattie S. Faxou, Emma Blanchard, Jessie Crooker, Fannie D. Leonard, Mary L. Packard, W. F. Jones, Social Committee ; E. E. Kent, 0. S. Sweetser, N. Hayward, Committee on Hall ; Dr. E. Arthur Dakin, and Dr. William P. Chisholm, Medical Examiners. The object of this society was social and mutual aid, and had but a short existence.

Grand Army of the Republic, Department of Massachusetts. - Fletcher Webster Post, No. 13. This post was named in honor of the colonel of the Twelfth Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers, in which there were a large number from Brockton in the army.

It was organized July 1, 1867, with the following charter members : Uriah Macoy, James A. Packard, Amasa S. Glover, Ephraim Tinkham^ E. Z. Stevens, Howard Keith, Charles L. Sproul, Asa F. Cro.sby, George W. Andrews, Thomas Doyle, Herbert Phillips, Clarence E. Hartwell, L. B. Andrews, William F. Robinson, J. T. Lurvey.

The post have assisted at the followiug ceremonies and celebrations : Dedication of soldiei-s' luonumcnt at Boston, Sept. 17, 1877 ; dedication of soldiers' monument at West Bridj;evfater, July 4, 1879 ; dedication of soldiers' monument at Ea-ston, May 30, 1882; Webster centennial at Marshfield, Oct. 12, 1882.

Memouial To The Patriotic Dead, With Their Resting-Places

The above-named persons, together with thirty-one others, were mustered iutu the order of Sons of Veterans Feb. 19, 1883. Voted to surrender charter and apply for admission to the " Sous of Veterans of the United States of America," May IG, 18S-1. Constituted a camp of the " Sons of Veterans," to be known as Gen. James A. Garfield Camp, No. 17, located at Brockton.

Woman's State Eelief Corps, Department of Massacliusetts, auxiliary to the Grand Army of tlie Republic: S. Agnes Parker, A. H. Dickerman, M. Ada Pratt, Ellen F. Holmes, Margaret Hanson, Susie Trask, Bessie F. Hunt, M. Eates, Ellen Parks, Elizabeth Tribou, Augusta Hunt, Hattie A. Purter, Flora B. Palmer, Sarah E. Osborne, Minnie F. Estes, Susan E. Hall, Amy E. Hall, Mary F. Southwick, Eliza M. Holloway, Eva T. Porcheron, H. A. Grunt, Hattie A. French, Phebe M. Gibbs, Sarah B. Kidder, Olive M. Henderson, Mary E. Davenport, M. T. Hollis.

Brockton Soldiers' Aid Society. - Agreeably to « notice previously given, the ladies of Brockton, feeling a deep interest in the welfare of those who had gone forth to fight the battles of our country, met at the chapel of the First Congregational Church, and organized themselves into a society under the name of Soldiers' Aid Society, and made choice of the following officers : Mrs. George Wilbour, president; Mrs. H. W. Robinson, vice-president; Mrs. Clara C. Wheldon, secretary and treasurer; Mrs.

The society held its meetings every Tuesday, in the Engine Hall, on Elm Street, for the traosactiun of business. The object of the society was the collection of clothing and packages, such as are needed by the suldiers, and forwarding tliem to their proper places. Mucli good was accomplished by them. During the first year of this society's existence, the amount contributed in cash by the diScrent societies was $278.43, the amount of clothing and other goods sent to the Sanitary Comrais-sion at Boston amounted to $800, making a total of $1078.43. Daring the year ending October, 18G3, the amount of goods, clothing, supplies, etc., sent to the Sanitary Commission at Boston was $827.45, the amount of cash contributed was $176.05, making a total of S1003.50. During the year ending October, 1864, the amount sent to the Sanitary Commission at Bos- ton was $1327.11. The amount of cash contributed in various ways, including the proceeds of the Sanitary Fair for Soldiers of $800, was $1034, making a total of $2361.11; the handsome sum of S4443.04 being contributed for the benefit and relief of the soldiers up to October, 1864.

Freedmen's Eelief Association of Brockton. - July 8, 1864, an association was formed under the above name as an auxiliary to the National Freedmen's Relief Association of New York City, having for its object the improvement of the freedmen of the colored race, by raising money, clothing, and necessary material for their relief, and teaching them civilization and Christianity, to imbue their minds with correct ideas of order, industry, economy, self-reliance, and to elevate them in the scale of humanity by inspiring them with sel -respect. The following was a list of the officers : Augustus T. Jones, president ; A. B. Keith, vice-president; Mrs. E. L. Clark, secretary; Frances French, treasurer ; J. R. Perkins, George Copeland, Capt. Henry French, Thaddeus E. GifFord, A. T. Jones, and A. B. Keith, executive committee.

Franklin Debating Association. - A society was organized during the winter of 1836, with the above name, for the promotion of useful knowledge and debating. The last question for discussion was, " Are dancing-schools, balls, cotillion parties, etc., worthy the support and encouragement of the community?" The decision has not as yet come to the writer's notice.

Pi Beta Society. - This society was established Sept. 17, 1844, and was in active operation about eight years. Its object was the mental improvement of its members, for the accomplishment of which, beside the literary exercises of its regular meetings, it had a reading-room, and a cabinet of natural history of nearly two thousand specimens, and a library of two liundred volumes, most of which were presented the first six months of its existence. The society held weekly meetings, and had addresses from distinguished speakers from time to time. During the active term this society was in existence it had gathered one thousand volumes and ten thousand specimens of cabinet curiosities of various kinds.

The officers of the institution, in 1851, were Charles R. Ford, president; Jacob Emerson, Jr., of Methuen, recording secretary ; John H. Bourne, of Marshfield, corresponding secretary ; Caleb Howard, trciisurer ; Silas L. Loomis, librarian ; L. F. C. Loomis, superintendent of cabinet ; Jacob Emerson, Charles R.

Philomathian Association. - Tlie above is the Daiue of an assoeiatiun connected with Mr. S. D. Hunt's academy, the object of wiiieh was luutual improvement. It was formed in 1855, soon after he opened his school, and was in existence till the close. Weekly meetings were held by the members, at which exercises, consisting of debates, declamations, lectures, essays, critif|Ues, and the reading of a paper published moulhly by the association, was read.

Alpha Epsilon Literary Society. - Organized April 14, 1874. This society is composed of graduates of the high school of Brockton, associated for literary exercises and as a debating club. The first five members at its organization were Frank E. Packard, Frederic K. French, Benjamin W. Cobb, Arthur E. Kendrick, and Loyed E. Chamberlain. The meetings of this society are held in the high-schuol room, on Tuesday evenings, and are well attended. Here follows a list of the earlier members : Frank K. Packard (1S74), B. W. Cobb (1875, deceased), Fred. R. French (1874), A. E. Kendrick (1875), L. E. Chamberlain (1875), James Poyntz (1875), W. C. Keith (1875), Edgar B. Stevens (1875), E. Ivingman, Jr., H. G. Severance (1876), J. E. C. Lagergreen (187G), S. E. Foss (1875), John Gilmore, Jr. (187G), George Woodward, E. L. Emerson (1877), Charles F. Jenney (187S), J. Robert McCarty (1877), C. H. Kingman (1877), W. S. Bennett (1878), Edward T. Ford (1878), Horace Richmond, II. N. Packard, E. H. Foss, H. 1. Mitchell, A. C. Gill, Willie E. Porter, George H. Bryant, W. J. Keith (1878), Fred. K. Tribou, R. E. Braytou, W. F. Brooks.

Brockton Athenaeum (organized 1884). - This society meets twice every month for literary improvement and progress of the arts, sciences, and promotion of thinking, and the consideration of current (juestions of the day.

Libraries. - The first public or social library in Brockton was raised by subscription about 1781, and was kept for most of the time in private huu.its. The last librarian was Col. Edward Soutliwoith, and the library was given up.

In 1842 the Legislature appropriated lifteeii dollars for the use of every school district in the cummouwealth that should raise an equal amount fur the purchase of a school district library. With this encouragement many of the districts raised the requisite amount and purchased libraries. They are now, however, nearly laid by.

At a regular town-meeting, held March ol), 1857, the town " voted to purchase a town library, the amount not to exceed S14U0, or one dollar on every poll paid in the town." For this purpose the following committee were chosen, namely, Edward Southworth, Jr., C. C. Bixby, Dr. Alexander Ilichborn, David L. Cowell, Ellis Packard, Jdnas R. Perkins, Lucius Gurney (2d), Jonathan White, and M. L. Keith, who proceeded in the selection and j)urchase of such books as were thought suitable to the wants of the community. The library was well selected, and consisted of many of the best works extant. Many persons, not wishing that the town should have any library, raised an oppositicjn to the plan, and as the result the town "voted. May 1, 1857, that all books, effects, and appurtenances uf the Town Library be placed in the hands of the selectnicn, to be disposed of in the best manner tnr the iiitere.-.t of the town." And in accordance with these instructions the selectmen sold the library of books, that cost eleven hundred and eighty-three dollars, to au a.-<socialion called the North Biidgewater Library Association. The price for the entire lot was six hundred dollars.

North Bridgewater Library Association. - This association was formed by a few individuals lor the purpose of holding a library. It was organized under a statute made for such purposes July 11, 1858. Each member paying five dollars becomes a stockholder, and an additional one dollar annually entitles him to all the rights and privileges of a member of the association. It has over two tliousand volumes, and is in a flourishing condition. The officers at the organization of the association were David L. Cowell, president; Rufus L. Thatcher, vice-president; Augustus Hayward, secretary ; David F. Studley, treasurer ; Henry A. Ford, John L. Hunt, Alpheus Holmes, Charles B. Crocker, Darius Howard, Edward

Library Association. - Prior to the year 1847 the town of North Brid^ewatcr Iiad oot enjoyed tiie privilege of many literary or seientitic lecture.s or social gatherings. During the winter of that year the principals of tlie Adelphian Academy, feeling an interest in the matter, and the want of some elevated and improving intercourse for the multitude of young people ill the town, proposed and finally arranged a series uC social levees or gatherings, composed mostly of members of the school. The exercises consisted of brief essays and addresse.s, interspersed with music and a season of social conversation.

This association was reorganized in October, 1851. or a new one formed under tlie above name; and a series of useful lectures was given by able lecturers, together with excellent musical entertainments.

North Bridgewater Agricultural Library Association. - An association under the above name was formed April 3, 1859, the object of which was to obtain a library of agricultural books, papers, etc., such as Would tend to the improvement of agricultural pursuits. The following persons were its oflScers : Chandler Sprague, Esq., president ; Isaac Kingman, vice-president; Alpheus Holmes, treasurer and librarian ; II. \V. Robinson, secretary.

Brockton Public Library. - The city has a good public library in Saiucket Block, corner of Maiu and Elm Streets, containing upwards of eight thousand volumes. The committee of the library are Warren L. Copeland, David L. Cowell, Loriog W. Puffer, DeWitt Clinton Packard, Preston B. Keith, Jonathan Wliite, Edward Parker, Jr., Alfred Laws, W. W. Wilkins. Myra F. Southworth, librarian ; Lizzie H. Williams, assistant librarian.

Sabbath-Schools. - The first Sabbath-school in Brockton commenced in May, 1818, througli the efforts of Mrs. Huntington, the wife of the pastor. The school consisted of one hundred and seven girls and seventy-eight boys. These were divided into classes of from four to eight petsons, according to their ages, the males under the care of teachers of their own sex, and the females under the care of teachers of their sex, the whole number under the direction of the superintendent. The time allotted for the school was during the intermission between the morning and afternoon services on the Sabbath, and was usually one hour long.

The books in use during the early part of its existence were the New Testament, Emerson's " Evangelical Primer," and " Hymns for Infant Minds." Most of the scholars, during the first term, were well versed in the primer, and in addition to that, for the first sixteen Sabbaths, they had committed thirty-two thousand six hundred and seventy-four verses of Scripture, and twenty-seven thousand three hundred verses of hymns, which were recited.

The first term of the Sabbath-school closed with public religious exercises on the day of the annual meeting of the Bridgewater Evangelical Society. The sacred music on the occasion was performed principally by the scholars.

There are at the present time schools connected with all the churches in the town, together with extensive libraries of well-selected books.

Music. - According to a universal custom in early times there was nothing but congregatinnal singing. Tunes were few, and for want of books the exercises were read a line at a time and then all would join in singing ; then the good deacon would read another line, and thus the service was " deaconed" through the whole of the verses.

The first music-book in the country was brought by the Pilgrims, and entitled " Ainsworth Versiun of the Psalms." This gave way to the " Bay P.<alm Book," the first book printed in America, which went through seventy editions, and in 1758 was revised and republished by Rev. Thomas Prince, of Boston.'

Previous to 1765 or 1770 there were no choirs in the churches, and as these were formed the custom of lining or "deaconing" the hymns grew into disuse, but not till after a great deal of determined opposition. The custom had been introduced by the Westminster Assembly of Divines, and hence could not easily be ! surrendered.

The first choir in now Brockton was established about 1801 under the leadership of Maj. Daniel Cary, a noted singer of that day. Previous to that time there were no seats specially provided for singers. Those persons who had thought of forming a choir in 1801 asked that seats might be provided for them.

" To see if the parish will erect, or suffer to be erected, seats for the singers, in the front of pews in the front gallery." Jan. 19, 1801, " Voted to erect seats in the front gallery for the singers, in front of the front pews." Also, " Voted that the above seats for the singers be erected in a ' surkerler furiue' "

I In 1690 there were but six tunes known in the pruvince, namely, "Oxford," " LitchQold," "York," "Windsor," "St. David's," and " Martyrs," and no new tunes could be introduced without a vote of the churoh. The flrat tuiie-book especially devoted to music was published by Rev. NVitliam Walter in 1721, and ^aa the first music with bars printed iu Auierico,

Maj. Daniel Gary, Moses Gary, and Col. Caleb Howard were " chcseo a cotuuiittee to git the above Seats built." The above seats vfere specially set apart for the use of those who had become " lamed" in the rules of " lausick."

Oliver Bryant, Josiah Brett, Isaac Packard, John Field, John Cobb, and Luke Lincoln were " choristers" in the parish until the town was incorporated. Since tliat time, Thomas J. Gurney, iheo livin<; in Abington, was invited to lead the ciioir and teach them to sinu, in 1829, who was the first person that received any compensation for services in singing. Commencing in 1829, Mr. Gurney continued to lead the choir and teach singing-schools until 1840, when he removed to Abington. From that time the choir of the First Church has been led by Mr. Seth Sumner, who became celebrated for his success in teaching singing-schools in the immediate vicinity, and Messrs. Isaac T. Packard, of this town, Whiting, Brown, and Appleton, of Boston, and Edmund Packard.

When the Porter Church Wiis formed in the town, in 1850, Mr. Gurney was invited to take charge of their choir, which he continued to do till April 1, 1864, when he resigned. Mr. T. Emerson Gurney Was organist at the Porter Church from 1850 to 1855 ; Mr. Jo.shua V. Gurney from 1855 to 1858.

The First Congregational Church had the first organ, in tiicir old church, which was exchanged for a new one in 1854, for their new house. At one time there were four organs in the churches: namely, in the First Congregational Church, Porter Evangelical Church, Second Methodist, and the Catholic Church.

There was a musical society formed in the county of Plymouth, called the Old Colony Musical Society, which was for the benefit of singers throughout the county. Bartholomew Brown, Esq., was leader ; Rev. Daniel Huntington was president. This society fell through for want of support. Mr. Huntington was a man of fine musical talent, and did much to elevate the standard of church music in the first part of his ministry, when so little attention had been paid to rulable music.

The next musical club formed for the purpose of improving the singing was the Calcolt Singing Society, which was about 1827 or 1828, and included the four Bridgewaters. Rev. Daniel Huntington was their first president; Nathan Lazell, of Bridgewater, was leader.

Next in order was the Union Harmonic Society; that was in existence about 1835. From that time to the present it would be impossible to give a full detail of the various singing-schools, rehearsals, clubs, etc. But probably no town in the county has given more attention to music, or been more successful in the production of talented singers and highly entertaining performances than Brockton. The church music of this city is of the highest order, and much time is devoted to the improvement of the singin.; throughout all the societies.

This town has sent forth some cxclUcqc teachers of music and performers of instrumental mu^ic, ainonu whom are Thomas J. Gurney, T. Emerson Gurney. George T. Atherton, and William Faxon, whu have made music a profession.

Band Music. - About the year 1340, a few individuals met together for the purpose of diiU and practice in music upon various brass instruments, drums, etc., under the lead of Samuel JI. Holmes, under the name of the North Bridgewater Brass Baud. They met every week or ofceuer lor practice, and were very successful, so that after a time they were engaged in all the surrounding places to play upon public occasions, and their fame soon sprcarl abroad, and it is at present one of the bu.<t Lauds of the kind in that section. A large delegation of thi-s band joined the Twelfth Massachusetts Regiment iu the Rebellion of 1861.

Soon after this baud was formed, another was organized at Gampello, under the lead of Martin L. Keith. The following persons were among the members of that band, namely : Charles P. Kuiih, Theodore Lilley, Sylvanus Keith, Albert Keith, Bela B. Hayward, Jarvis W. Reynolds, James C. Siiell, Thomas French, Lucius Hayward, and Harrison Bryant. This company continued only about six months, when some of the number joiued the Centre Baud.

About the same period there was another band at the " West Shares," under the leadership of Ellis Packard, which continued about a year, and was then given up, some of its members joining the Centre Band.

The members of this band that joiued the Twelfth Massachusetts Regiment received the highest praise from Gen. Sherman, and it is said that; this was his favorite band, and was conducted under the leadership of William J. Martlaud.

Campello Brass Band. - The Campellu Brass Baud was organized Aug. 7, 1877, with the following seventeen members : Fred. H. Packard, D. Carey Keith, Myron L. Keith, 0. Hayward, H. A. Monk, John Monk, Frank Monk, C. E. Packard, D. C. Berry, J. B. Pratt, Frank Alden, A. J. Guild, II. N. Hunt, Frank Brown, Myron Thomas, Lyman Carlson, T. H. Loring. Mr. S. C. Perkins, of Brockton, was engaged as leader and teacher, and for about two mouths regular meetings were held. The majority of the players were young and inexperienced, several of tbem knowing nothing of reading music, and meeting with unforeseen difficulties, the interest died out, and from Nov. S, 1877, to May 17, 1878, no general gathering of members took place. About the latter date, however, Mr. George E. Kinsley was employed to direct them, and a good number of the original company, with others who were unwilling to see the experiment end in failure, commenced a second series of iueetini;s for practice, which bus been continued with pleasant results. The membership comprises the following players: William Swanson, 1st E-flat cornet ; Otho Hayward, 2d E-flat cornet ; Arthur Peckham, 1st 6-flat cornet; Lyman Carlson, 2d B-flat cornet; Frank Alden, 1st B-flat clarionet; M. L. Keith, solo alto ; John Monk, 1st alto ; Wendell White, 2d alto; Daniel Berry, 1st tenor; Aug. Hellburg. 2d tenor ; Andrew Guild, baritone ; Frank Brown, trombone; Charles Martin, tuba; Corydon Andrews, Jl-flat bass ; Frank Monk, E-flat bass; Melvin Washburn, bass-drum; Norman Cobb, snare-drum; William Joyce, cymbals.

Thespian Society. - In February, 1836, a company of gentlemen and ladies were organized into a society, under the above name, for the purpose of giving dramatic performances. The orchestra consisted of fifteen members, and was under the leader- .ship of Sihon Packard. The songs, duets, and choruses were of a high order, and were performed before crowded as-semblies. A slight fee was asked, to pay expenses of scenery, and expenses only.

Union Musical Association. - About the Lst of May, 1S64, a new musical association was formed, under the above title, for the purpose of improvement in singing, practicing choruses, oratorios, etc. It was regularly organized, with a constitution and by-laws. The following were the officers: Henry W. Robinson, president; Ch;irles R. Ford, vice-president; F. A. Thayer, secretary ; Sumner A. Hayward, treasurer ; James Porter, librarian ; Charles J. F. Packard, William II. Faxon, Samuel McLauthlin, Thomas Leonard, S. Franklin Packard, D. B. Lovell, trustees; William H. Faxon, musical director.

Union Musical Society, organized April 6, 1869. Sumner A. Hayward, president ; Ziba C. Keith, vicepresident ; Charles J. F. Packard, treasurer and librarian ; Hiram Wilde, of Boston, musical director. Consisted of about two hundred members. Met Friday evenings in the vestry of the First Church.

This Union was organized by Rev. C. M. Winchester, Oct. 9, 1875, who was, by its constitution, umde its perpetual president, and who, until February, 1877, managed its affairs. On the 17th of that month Rev. S. L. Beal was chosen president; Rev. C. M. Winchester, vice-president; R. F. Eaton, Miss Eva M. B.ites, Herbert L. Willis, secretaries; Thomas Keith, organist. Music, readings, speeches, temperance discussions, and kindred exercises formed the basis of the meetings, which attracted a large number of young people, and the signatures to the pledge amounted to three hundred and fourteen, and a membership of two hundred and fifty- five was secured under and during Mr. Winchester's management.

On the 3d of February, 1877, Mr. Winchester, being about to leave town, resigned, and on the 17th of the same month a committee consisting of Lewis Ford, Mrs. W. W. Packard, Mrs. L. B. Willis, and C. F. Woodbury, were elected, Feb. 10, 1877, to ravise the constitution. On the 17th a new constitution was adopted, among which are the following articles :

" Ut. The object of the Union shall be the rcforiuuliun of any und all persons who sell or ase into.xicating drinks, and to bclp uauh other to watch and guard against the encroach uients of a couuuon foe. We will diligently labor, using mch lawful Diean:i and measures as may seem to us must eri'cctive in creating a healthful public sentiment which shall rout this inun^iler cneuiy, Intemperance, from our firesides and social circles, the Church and the State. And while we deem it important to guard against any partisan or sectarian feeling or discussion in our deliberations, we believe it the right and privilege of any one to proclaim against any and everything standing in the way uf theonward march of tbecause we have espoused. And we invoke the help of Almighty Qod that wu may be euabled to attack the enemy whenever or wherever we may find him, without fear or couipromise.

'* 2d. Any person may become a member of the Uuion by assenting to the constitution, taking the pledge, and paying the sum of twenty-five cents, each member contributing to the fuudsof the Union from week to week, as his or her means will allow.

"3d. Pledge: I solemnly promise, with the help of the Lord Jesus Christ, that I will not make, buy, sell, or use any spirituous or malt liquors, wine, or cider as a beverage. And 1 will use my best endeavors to induce all others to I'orm and keej) tho same good resolution."

For some reason the Union met at Concert Hall, Nov. 30, 1879, when the Union was dissolved, as appears by the following resolution, which was adopted :

" JieiolveJ, Thiit In view of the present condition of the Teuipcrancu cuuse in our uiiUsC, and in view uf the iuit)Ort:ince of conccntnited ciVort, wc, as :l douiety, disbaud, Iiojjini^ by oneness of action in tlie general movement already inuugurotud in Brockton to cfl'ect tlio more speedy triumph of our cause."

Woman's Christian Temperance Union of Brockton. - This association was organized Feb. 28, 1878. Tiie first meeting was held in the Methodist Church. Tlie following were the officers : Mrs. E. Bailey, president ; Mrs. A. Gurney, secretary ; Mrs. Aldeii Gushee, Mrs. E. Bailey, Mrs. H. Mcrritt, Mrs. E. Holmes, vice-presidents.

'- The cliief object of this union shall be to inaugurate effective measures whereby the traffic in intoxicants shall be banished from among us."

St. Patrick's Total Abstinence Society. - This is the title of a new organization formed in the interests of the temperance cause. The principal and leading spirit in this movement was Rev. Patrick II. Clark, an assistant curate (now in the West) in St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church, of which the Ilev. Thomas B. McNulty was the pastor, now a resident in the West. His earnest efforts in this direction, and in promoting the welfare of the young people of Brockton, are well remembered by all those with whom he became acquaiuted. The officers were Rev. Patrick H. Clark, president ; Daniel Conclly, vicepresident ; John J. Morton, recording secretary ; Matthew Morris, financial secretary ; Patrick Kent, treasurer ; Arthur Diamond, Charles L. McCann, Patrick Gilmore, Joseph Murphy, T. J. Smith, directors.

St. Patrick's Total Abstinence Cadets is a collection of two hundred or more boys under fifteen years of age who signed the pledge to abstain from all intoxicating liquors until they arrive to the age of twenty-one years. They were organized on Sunday, May 15, 1881, by Father Doherty.

Good Samaritan Society. - This was au organization established October, 187G, in the interest of general reform work, particularly temperance, lectures, and entertainments, literary and musical ; a readingroom was established, and regular club meetings were held in the reading-room on Wednesday evenings. The different religious societies have kindly co-operated in their efforts at reform work of every kind with this society. The society had the names of over six hundred on their pledge, very few of which have ever been violated.

A similar organization was establi.->hod at Campello, doing the same kind of work, having the same object in view, viz., that of general reform work, in which political or sectarian discussion is prohibited by their constitution.

The Swedish Benevolent Society of Brockton, organized Jan. 3, 1882. - The aim and object of this society is to promote friendship and true patriotic love between all of Scandinavian birtli or natioiialir.y, to encourage virtue and honesty, to promote honor for ourselves and our native and adopted countries, to advise and assist each other in need and sickness, according to circumstances governed by a code of bylaws adopted by this .society Jan. 11, 1882.

The following are the officers of the society, elected March 29, 1882 : Frank II. Lawson, preHdeiit ; Sophia Johnson, Andrew Benson, vice-pre>ideiits ; G. H. Olstrom, secretary; Charles Ilellberg, assistant secretary; A. J. Rydi[vist, treasurer; Iliig<i Slettengreen, Gus. A. Hellberg, Sigrid Weiin.^trdni, reception committee; Martin Lul'striiin, mu->ieal director. Meet in Clark's block the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, at eight o'clock P.m.

M. C. 0. F. (St. TiiOM.A.s Court, No. 2'Jl organized and constituted on Thursday evening, Feb. 17, 1881, in Hibernian Hall, by the Worthy High Chief Ranger Sullivan, of Boston, with the following officers: Patrick Gilmore, C. R. ; Daniel Connolly, V. C. R. ; James P. Conley, R. Sec; Philip Mc- Donald, F. Sec. ; Patrick McCarthy. Trea.-^. ; Thouias

The Miissachusetts Court, Order of Foresters, above [ named, is similar in its objects to the Knights of Honor, one thousand dollars being secured to the heirs of the j deceased member or whoever is designated. There wore about thirty members belonging to this organization, who met in Hibernian Hall twice every month. Tlie name of 'St. Thomas" W;is given in lionor of Rev. Thomas B. McNulty, who has for a long time been the pastor of St. Patrick's Church.

Sanctuary Society is composed of several hundred female members, and through their personal ettorts liave collected a large library. Any person belonging to the Catholic Church can have the books on payment of one cent per day for each book taken.

Spiritualist Society. - A society under this name has been organized in 1884, having the following officers, viz. : Rev. Samuel L. Beal, Pres. ; William Osborne, Vice-Pre.s. ; James A. Kent, Sec. and Treas. ; Theodore Loring, Charles Delano, W. Dickerman, and James A. Kent, Exec. Cora. ; Mrs. M. A. Dickerman, Mrs. Rogers, and Mrs. Arabel Ames, Aud. Cora.

Society of Progressive Spiritualists. - A society with the above narae was organized on the seventh day of April, 1878, with officers as follows: H. F. Bird, Pres. ; Dr. F. Webster, Vice-Pres. ; E. G. Sparrow, Sec. ; Nelson nuckin.s, Treas. ; Nelson Huckius, Dr. F. Webster, and A. Ames, Trustees ; L. W. Hill, Collector. Meetings in Cunningham Hall.

The Woman's Mission Society is connected with the Congregational Churches of the city. President, Mrs. Albert Keith ; Vice-Presidents, Mi-s. George E. Martin, Mi-s. F. A. Wardeld, Mrs. John T. Blades; Secretary, Mi-s. George C. Cary ; Treasurer, Mi.ss Mary K. Keith ; l^Ixecutive Committee, Mrs. C. Bradford, Mrs. 0. Grossman, Mi.ss Cornelia Eddy, Mrs. S. Foss ; Collectors, Mrs. Jane P. Reed, Mrs. Minot Niles, Jlrs. Charles Curtis, Mrs. Almiron Li-acli, Miss Annie Moors, Miss Mary C. Keith.

Brockton Woman's Suffrage Association. - On Monday, Oct. 2, 1876, the friends of female suifrage met in Lower Music Hall, David L. Cowell, Esq., presiding, to listen to an address by Miss JIatilda Hindman, after which a form of constitution was presented, which set forth the objects of thi.s organization, whose principles may best be told in the two following articles :

" 1st. Believing in the natural equality of the two sexes and their consequent right to e(|ual elective and legal privileges, and in the wrong inflicted upon woraen by withholding the same, resulting in incalculable lo.ss to society, the undersigned agree to unite in an association to be called ' The Brockton Woman's Suffrage Association.'

" 2d. The object of this Association shall be to effect by moral and political eflfort, changes in public sentiment, resulting in the acknowledged right of suffrage for woraen, and placing her in all respects on an equal footing with man."

This constitution was adopted, and twenty five names placed upon the list of members. The officers elected were Mrs. Lydia B. Willis, president ; Mrs. Milley Estes, Lewis Ford, Rev. S. L. Beal, Mrs. Jason Packard, vice-presidents ; Richard Humphrey, treasurer ; Rev. C. M. Winchester, secretary. The president, treasurer, secretary, Edward E. Bennett, and Ellen Slade constitute the executive committee.

Enterprise Association, Campello. - This is an association of persons leagued together for the purpose of beautifying and ornamenting the village with shade and ornamental trees, and otherwise improving the appearance of that portion where they reside, aud in which they have a deep interest.

Campello Sportsmen's Club. - Several parties interested in shooting and practice in glass-ball matehos met together and formed a club under the above name. President, Henry F. Thayer ; Treasurer, Frank P. Keith ; Secretary, J. D. Fiske. The secretary, treasurer, president, Howard P. Keith, and J. E. Carr, were executive committee. Members: Henry F. Thayer, Frank P. Keith, J. D. Fiske, J. K Carr, Howard P. Keith, Manuel P. Nevis, Charles E. Tribou, Charles E. Martin, Paul Hartwig, Henry B. Wood, Alton M. Thayer, Charles J. Turner, Walton E. Keith, Joseph A. Jennings, Harry A. Copcland, Stephen M. Thresher, W. Dexter Pierce, William F. Ryder, Japhet B. Packard, L. Sumner Packard, Warren R. Thayer, Edmund Baker, 0. G. Tinkham.

City Bicycle Club is the largest organization of the kind in Southeastern Massachusetts. It was formed in 1881. President, William Briggs; Captain, George P. Johnson ; Secretary and Treasurer, Fred.

M. Bixby. Their present headquarters is in Theatre Building, Eaat Elm Street, which was opened to tlieir use Jan. 1, 1883. Starting with fourteen original members, it has increased to forty, and growing in numbers.

Brockton Bicycle Club, organized June 1, 1879, twenty-two members. William IT. Bryant, prosidoiit ; Fied. B. Howard, secretary and trca.suier ; F. II. Johnson, captain.

Brockton Fanciers' Club was formed Nov. 11, 1S7S. It is an association of persons interested in the improvement of poultry, pigeons, and pets, etc., and in holding exhibitions for the purpose of encouraging the special raising of the best varieties. President, William llaukin ; Vice-President, J. W. Freeman ; Corresponding Secretary, Abbott W. Packard ; Recording Secretary, 11. W. Shaw ; Treasurer, W. F. Field ; Executive Committee, Bradford Wild, G. T. Eaudall, W. H. Sylvester, L. A. Tower, of Brockton, and Ozias Millett, of South Abington.

Fire Department. - Water is the grand agent that nature hits provided for the extinguishment of flames, and the difl'erent ways and means for applying it with eftect have been sought for in every civilized country. In the absence of more suitable implements, buckets aud other portable vessels of capacity at hand have always been seized to throw water upon fire, and when used with celerity and presence of mind in the early commencement of a fire have often been sufficient, but when a conflagration extends beyond their reach the fate of the burning pile too often resembles that of the ships of "^Eneas," -

Hence the necessity of some device by which a stream of water may be forced from a distance on flames. Ingenious men of former days were stimulated to an unusual degree to invent machines for that purpose. The first machine used for throwing water upon fire was the common syringe. Fire was the most destructive agent employed in ancient wars, hence every effort that could be made by ingenuity for protection from the as.saults of pitch, oil, and fire, that were thrown from the ramparts, was made.

The introduction of fire-engines was an important event in the country, and indicates a certain degree of refinement in civilization and an advanced state of the mechanic arts. If we review the progress of fireengines in modern times, from the syringe to the splendid engine of to-day, we cannot fail to observe that progress marks the age. At first was used the

Fire-Engines. - The first fire-engine in Brockton was purchased by subscription iu 1827, and was owned by a private company. The following is a copy of the original subscription paper :

"This proposes a method for obtuiniu;,' a tire cn^jinc, to bo kept near the road betwixt the Old Meeliu;^ House jnJ Mr. Whitmau's oBioc, for the use of the inhabitants of N'unh Bridgcwater who are liable to suflcr loss by liru. .\iu\ i.. accomplish said objeei, twenty-three shares, v:iIulU at Iwcniy dollars each, are offered to those who uiay feel interested to become proprietors thereof. Kaeh subscriber will aniie.v to his name how many shares he takes, and if less than one, what part. And we, the subscribers, do severally feel under obligations to pay, agreeably to our subscription, to the jiroprieturs, treasurer, or agent duly authorized by ,i majority of proprietors to receive their money, and to procure their engine.

This engine was called the " Union, No. 1," and was a bucket-tub to be filled by hand. The machine passed out of the proprietors' hands to the town, on condition that the town would put the engine in perfect order, and keep it in order lor u.se at fires. They also furnished a hook-and-ladder carriage, with tirehooks, ladders, chains, etc.

The above constituted all the facilities for extinguishing fires previous to 1845. At that date the town, finding the alarms of fire growing more numcrou.s as new buildings were erected, and were so near together, " voted to procure two new and improved suction fire-engines." This vote passed Feb. D, 18-10. Tlie town appropriated one thousand dollars, provided the citizens would subscribe one thousand dollars more. The subscription was promptly raised, and Benjamin Kingman and Aniasa Edson appointed a committee to purchase the machines. Previous to this time the management at fires wa.s under the direction of "fire wards" appointed by the town.

T. & E. Thayer, costing seven hundred and fifty dollars each, and were coiupletcd and received Fob. 6, 1S47. One of them was called " Protector," and was kept in the Centre Village ; the other, called " Enterprise," was located at Cainpello.

The -'fire department" of 18G5 was organized by an act of incorporation by the Legl-^lature of Massachusetts, March 18, 184(1, and at the time of the receipt uf the two new engines consisted of the following: one old engine, the " Union," Capt. Henry L. Bryant; "Protector, No. 3," Capt. B. P. Lucas, - motto, " We will endeavor ;" " Enterprise, No. 2," Capt. Aaron B. Drake, - motto, " Always ready ;" one hook-and-ladder carriage, with the fixtures, and one old and two new engine-houses.

In 1S50 the town purchased a large engine of John Agnew, of Philadelphia, Pa., costing seventeen hundred dollars, which was called the " Protector, No. 3." The old engine of that name was changed to " Relief, No. 4," - motto, " Our aim, the public good." In May, 1853, a new machine was purchased by private subscription, by the name of "Independence, No. 5," - motto, " Still live." About the same time, the " Relief Engine, No. 4," was sold to the town of Randolph, and located at South Randolph. In the fall of 1853 a new engine was purchased of L. Button & Co., of Waterford, N. Y., named " Mayflower, No. 4," which name was changed to " Columbian, No. 5," - motto, " On the alert."

In the spring of 1861 the town voted to sell " Protector, No. 3," which was done during the year, by exchange with William Jeffers, of Pawtucket, for one of his engims, using the same name and number. In 1854 " Enterpri.se Engine, No. 2," was transferred to the '- West Shares," or Northwest Bridgewater, and the name changed to " Niagara, No. 6." During that year a new engine was purchased of L. Button & Co., of Waterford, N. Y., to take the place of the old engine, adopting the same name, and was located at Campello. In 18G5 the "Niagara Engine" was sold to go to South Easton, and a new engine was purchased at Charlestown, named " Hancock, No. 1."

In 1865 the fire department of Brockton consisted of "Hancock Engine, No. 1," Capt. Isaac H. Hartwell, located at the " West Shares," - motto, " Our aim, the public good ;" " Enterprise Engine, No. 2," Capt. William Stevens, located at Campello, - motto, " Always ready ;" " Protector Engine, No. 3," Capt. Henry B. Packard, located in the Centre Village, - motto, " We will endeavor ;" " Columbian Engine, No. 5," Capt. E. Z. Stevens, also located in the Centre Village, - motto, " On the alert ;" and one hook-and-ladder carriage and three engine-houses.

On Saturday, the 21st of October, 1865, the fire companies made a trial of fire-engines for a silver trumpet. " Protector" took the prize, playing horizontally two hundred and twenty feet.

The fire department, as constituted in 1884, con- of three steam fire engines, with fifteen men each, three extinguishers, one hook-and-ladder company, and one hand-engine.

The board of engineers are Davis R. Eldrod, assisted by Nehemiah S. Holmes, Charles Eaton, Zenas L Marston, and Alexander Fanning. Nehemiah S. Holmes, clerk.

The fire department of Brockton has ever had a good reputation for efficiency, and when it Ls cunsiderud how many wooden buildings are compactly located, the city has been remarkably fortunate in not having many conflagrations.

Brockton Special Fire Police. - This is an organization of persons appointed by the mayor and aldermen, whose duty it shall be, as .soon as an alarm of fire is given, to repair to the spot designated by the fire-alarm, and take charge of the personal property in and around the burning buildings, subject to orders from the chief engineer.

Eailroads. - March 25, 1845, the Legislature of Massachusetts granted a charter to Messrs. Artemas Hale, Nahum Stetson, Aaron Ilobart, Solomon Ager, Benjamin B. Howard, Dwelly Fobes, Edward Southworth, Benjamin Kingman, Henry Blanehard, Ebenezer Alden, Royal Turner, and David Blanehard, and their associates and successors, to build a railroad from the Old Colony Railroad at South Braintree, running through Randolph, Stoughton, and Brockton, to Bridgewater, to connect with the Middleboro' and Bridgewater Railroad, under the name of the " Randolph and Bridgewater Railroad Corporation." The road was finished and commenced running cars to Brockton in 1846. Previous to this the " Fall River

Blanch Railroad" had been in existence for some time fruni Myricii's Station, on tlie "Taunton Branch Railroad," to Fall River. Anotlier short road was chartered to mn from Bridgewater to Myrick's Station, to connect with the " Fall River Branch Railroad," thus iiuiking a continuous route from the Old Colony Road at South Braintree to Fall River, and three different corporations. These were united in one, under the name of the " Fall River Railroad Corporation," by which it was known until by an act of the Ley;islature, March 25, 1854, the " Old Colony Railroad Company" and the " Fall River Railroad Company" were made into one corporation, under the name of the " Old Colony and Fall River Railroad Corporation." The road has since changed its name, upon the completion of the road to Newport, to " Old Colony and Newport Railway Company." The city has now direct communication with Boston, Fall River, Newport, Middleboro', and towns on Cape Cod, and also to Fairliuveu. Mr. Joseph O. Bennett was tlie first station agent at the Centre, who was succeeded by George W. Bryant, Calvin Keith, and J. Herman French, who is now the superintendent.

There is another depot at Canipello, one and a half miles south of the Centre. Varanes Wales was the first station agent, and he was succeeded by Isaac T. Packard and Nelson J. Foss.

During the year 1845 a charter was applied for, to build a branch road from Stoughton to North Bridge- Water (now Brockton), with a capital of two hundred thousand dollars.

Brockton Gas-Lig^ht Company, - During the year 1858 several of the citinens in the thickest settled portions of the town began to discuss the sub ject of a better means of lighting the stores, factories, and dwelling-liouses ; or, in other words, the people wanted more light, and as is always the case when people wish for light it can be had. For this purpose a few public-spirited individuals were called together July 22, 1859, to see what measures it was thought best to adopt. Subscription papers were opened, and stock taken to the amount of twelve thousand dollars, divided into shares of one hundred dollars each. A company was organized Sept. 5, 1859, with the following otficers : William F. Brett, president; David F. Studley, trea.surer ; Nouh Chesman, II. W. Robinson, and Jouas R. Perkins, Esq., directors.

The present oflScers are Noah Chcamao, president ; Henry W. Robinson, treasurer; Jonas R. Perkins, cleik ; David Brayton, superintendent. Ofiice on Muutello, near School Street.

The Edison Electric Illuminating^ Company. - This company organized March 5, 1883, with a capit.il of one hundred thousand dollars, for the purpose of conducting business in Brockton. The following is the list of ofiBcera : President, Charles G. White, of Boston ; Clerk and Treasurer, William L. Garrison ; Directors, George P. Denny, James P. Tolman, Frank J. Coburn, Calvin B. Prescolt, and F. G. White; Manager, W. J. Jenks.

On Monday evening, Oct. 1, 1883, at quarter-past six o'clock P.M., the above system of lighting was successfully introduced into the city of Brockton, and has now become one of the principal institutions of the city. The reputation of Brockton is second to none in introducing the best and newest of all improvements and in sustaining all well-directed enterprises. That there ia a growing feeling in favor of electricity in Brockton is evident by the increased demand for its introduction into private houses and stores, and that it will come into general use we liave no doubt.

The central station or head(|uarters of this company is at the corner of Moutello and Lincoln Streets, where the company are provided with a commodious brick building and steam-power of the most approved kind.

Jenny Electric Light and Power Company, of Brockton, organized May 2, 1884, capital fifty thousand dollars, located at the corner of Montello and Crescent Streets. George E. Keith, president ; Henry E. Lincoln, elerk and treasurer; George E. Keith, Henry E. Lincoln, Ziba C. Keith, Col. John J. Whipple, directors. Works in a building one hundred by thirty-five feet, on Moutello, south of Crescent Street.

Lights have been placed on the streets by this company within a few weeks, and have proved highly satisfactory. There are a large number of prominent firms who have signified their intention to use this light.

Brockton Street Railway Company. - This corporation was duly organized Jan. 8, 1881, with the following officers : George F. Hall, Henry Towle, and Fred. Nourse, of Boston, Charles R. Ford and Ziba C. Keith, of Brockton, directors. George F. Hall was elected president, and Fred. Nourse clerk. j The capital stock was forty thousand dollars.

The cars ran over tlie road for the tiist time on Wednesday, July 6, 1881, and commenced regular trips from the beginning, being well patronized. Cars were decorated on the occasion of opening of the road, which at first extended from Clifton Avenue, near the southerly boundary of the town in Campello, through the uiaio thoroughfare of the city as far 08 the uuuufactory of Edoji H. Reynolds, at the Dorth end. Trips were made every twenty minutes. At first six box aud three open cars, and thirty-nine horses, were required to run the road in a proper manner.

At tlie commencement of running the horse-cars, there was a line of large omnibuses running from Campullo to Brockton, which tlie railroad company purchased, including the horses, coaches, harness, etc., beluiigiug to Peudar & Rogers. The company also leased the stable of the proprietors for five years fur the purposes of the new railroad. Horace B. Rogers immediately took the management uf the road us superintendent, for which position he was admirably qualified, and under whose direction the road has proved a success. In the early part of 1884, the people of East Stoughton wishing for accommodations and convenient connection with Brockton, the company extended their track to the Randolph line, thus making a complete line from Randolph, through the main streets of East Stoughtou aud Brockton to West Bridgewater. This corporation is very judiciously managed, aud has proved remunerative to the stockholders, and tends very much to equalize the difierent sections of the city, by opening up the vacant lands, and adding to the growth of the same.

North Bridgewater Board of Trade. - This was an organization having for its object the following : '- In order to promote tiie efficiency and extend the usefulness of the business men of North Bridgewater, and in order to secure unity and harmony of action in reference to any initiated or prospective enterprises afl'ectiug its welfare, and especially in order to atford a fund of counsel to secure the proper consideration of all questions pertaining to the financial, commercial, and industrial interests of our community, this association on this 29lh day of March, 1871, is hereby formed." Meetings were held in Mercantile Building.

in the temperance cause were according to the methods of the Independent Order of Good Templars. Every representative of the Good Templar ideal is an apostle of temperance ideas and principles, and their influence is more widely felt than that of most any other order.

This lodge was constituted Sept. 22, 1860, by the Grand Temple of the Independent Order of Good Templars of the State of Massachusetts, who granted unto the following members to be a lodge, located at North Bridgewater (now Brockton), under the name of Fraternal Lodge, No. 24 :