Merrimac Town (part 7 of 9)

Oct. 13th. \ town meeting was held to make provisions for the soldiers whom the town had been called upon to furnish, and who were liable to march at a moment's warning. It was decided to offer a l)Ounty of 12 s., and, in case of marching, to make up their |)ay to eight dollars per month, b'or what pur- |>ose these soldiers were inlisted does not fully appear ; but the country was nearly in open war with Mngland and in actual hostilities with the western Indians.

Rev. I^benezer Cleaveland comnK*nced his labors in the Mast parish in the early part of this year. I''ebruary loth he received ;^6 for preaching.

There are yet many living who remember this noted com- |>any, which always attracted special attention on muster days. The company was organized this year by order of the commander-in-chief, dated Kebruary 20th. Major-CIeneral Fish was authorized to raise one other comj)any of artillery in the secmsiORV OK AMICSntRY. 309 oiiti brigade, and, on the 20tli of March, the officers of the new company were commissioned as follows, vi/. : William Lurvey, captain ; h'phraim Morrill, first lieutenant ; James \x)\\c, scc:ond lieutenant. Syoon after, a battalion was formed in<:lu<ling this company, and Capt. William Cross, of the Newburyport artillery, was elected major and Jonathan Webster, of Amesbury, was appointed adjutant. The uniform adopted was blue, Irinuned and fi<"cd with red, and further ornamented with gilt buttons. The caps were bell-topped antl gla/ed, with more or less trimming, somewhat according to rank, surmounted with a fnie scarlet plume. In 1800 (apt. Kurvey was elected major. The head-tpiarters of the company was at the gun house, near --(lun House" lane at llarllett's corner, where two brass field |)ieces were kept ready for u.se at general musters. From all sections of the towns came these showy soldiers on muster <lays, an<l ** IJarllett's Corner" was then a very lively place.

A conuiiittee was chosen to view the burying place near I )avid Ring's, and to see if it would be convenient to exchange a piece with iMioch Rogers and accei)t the burying place as now fenced in. This was the <emetery adjoining the late Mr. Lunt's on the plain.

Ca])t. Robert Rogers and others petitioned the town to straighten the road from the Hibbert house to the foot of Straw hill. This was on Whitehall street, commencing near the ( ioodhue house, running south to the low ground. The old road wound arountl to the westward near Mr. Skinner's, and over the hill southerly to the low groimd, a crooked and hilly route. It seems that the hill near Joseph Jewell's was fonncrly called *' Stevens' hill." The road was straighlene<l ;ls |)eti lioned for.

'Inhere was a tornado in March which did consiileral>ie damage in various places and unroofed a part of the Sandy Fiill meeting-house. We take the following from the Kast parish I ollector and treasurer's hook : -

"March 25 - 1795. 1**'^*^^ ^^ Joseph Martlett ;^io for limiing material and mending the Meeting house when the wind iVui unroofe part of said house." Also, "jiaid Menjamin Swett ^^6- (>-o hired of him to pay for land the meeting house stands on." I'hirty-eight years ago the [larish bought the land, hut it w«is not paid for till this year.

May 2tl. I'he town met for the purjuise of adopting a memorial to Congress in regard to carrying out the treaty with (ireal liritian concerning the fisheries. The memorial was approved ^nd signed hy one hundreil and thirty persons who were present. This is the largest number on record at a town meeting. There has always been a great ilial of interest shown in the iishing business. It not only brought gain from the s;de of the fish, btit kept the carpenters busy in the shi|)-yards akmg the river. It was an important branch ol business.

At the May meeting a proposition was brought before the town to move the Mills bridge down aboiu twenty feel, and it was approved by the meeting, provided Siili.sbiuy joined in the arrangement. Jonathan Osgood and David Osgood petitioned in 1753 lor leave to move the bridge on their own cost, but the town would not consent. Their reason for the change was that it was ^'difficult to pass said bridge as it now stands with large teaujs." Korly-lhree years later the town virtiially acknowledged that the Messrs. Osgood were right.

'The seleetmen were ordered to apportion the school money in the districts according to the tax they |>ay after the new valuation is taken, which was ordered at the annual meeting.

At the election ft)r governor, Samuel Adams received fifty-two vott^'s and state senators thirty-six votes ea<:h, except (3hristo|>her Sargent, who had hnt thirty. At the presidential election held November 7th, the whole numi)er of votes cast was twentyninr.

David Tnxbnry still lives and comes forward, to the great annoyance of the town, with his favorite idea of a I'reshyterian society. He had fonvarded to the (Seneral Court a petition for an act of incor])oration, and an order of notice had lieen served on the town to show cause why the petition should not be granted.

The town "Voted to choose a Conunittee to give their reasons wliy the prayer of David Tewkshury an<l t)thers should not he granteil." The i<lea of dividing the people into so many religious societies never met the approval of the early settlers.

The I'erry people were this year somewhat troubled alnitU building a new school-house, being unable for some lime to agree how or what shouhl i)e done. The first meeting was calle<l May 6th **to agree on some method to build a new school house." and resulted in an adjournment after choosing a moderator and clerk. Another meeting was warned on the 13th to be held on the i6th inst., at which time a committee was chosen, with (apt. William l^urvey its chairman, to advise on a plan. The conunittee was instructed "to inform themselves of the expense and best dimensions either for a brick or a wooden oni* and inlorm the proprietoi*s at an adjourimient of the meeting." and the meeting was adjourned to the 20th inst.

At the adj()urne<l meetiu'^ it was voted to build, and then inunediately votc<l to do nothing. lUit, presto change. "I'hen again went on and signed for shares to build a new school house and ordered the < onunitlee to go im and purchase materials and workn\en to build s** house." ** An<l the committee went on antl built the house in part, according to the dimensions agreed on by the Dislri<:t." The house was nearly com- pleted hy the last of l)eceml>er, and on the 26th David lx)well, Joseph Morse and Hcnjainin Swett were chosen to receive the key in the name of the (hstrict. The amount rec|iiired was ^'200, and this was divided into shares of ^2 each, making one hundred shares, wliich were taken up l)y subscription. A committee consisting of Nathan I^ng, William Ikigley and James Bailey was chosen to receive the school money from the selectmen and to hire a master. At an adjourned meeting held January 2d, 1797, the committee re|H>rtcd that ihcy luui hired Master "Burrows'* to keep school seven months.

The old habit of selling the |K)or was still practiced, and this year they were "put out to the best advantage," which means I he cheapest, if not the best place.

A brick school-house having been built on the town's land at the Ferry, the annual meeting granted a piece of. land so long as the house remained thereon.

David 'lewksbury again comes to the front with his favorite society, and the representative is instructed to oppose the incorporation of the new society.

river road near ihe creek now owned by John Htnitington, just west of his mill house (then called, as from the first settlement of the town, Indian creek) and northerly to the old Hunt road, near the house of the late Jonathan Morrill, Ksq. Il was never worked and remained unopened till 1828, when it was discontinued in conse(|uence of some discussion about oblifjing the town to open it.

April 2'\. At the st.Ue election to-d.iy sevenly-nve votes were cast for governor, viz. : Increase Sumner twenty-three and James Sullivan fifty-two.

June iith. At the meeting this day it was "Voted That the Selet Imen be a Committee to send an Address to the lYesident of the United States to let him know the towns approlwti(jn of the measures taken by our Executive.*' This vote, no doubt, has reference to the course taken by President Adams in regard to the trouble with France, which came near involving the country in war.

Nov. 5th. A meeting was held for the choice of representative to Congress and Hailey IJartlett received eleven votes, Josiah Smith two, Joseph Wingate three and C'hristophcr Sargent one.

The winter f)f 1797-1798 was very severe, commencing early and holding till late in tlie spring. The river was frozen over November 28th and the ice continued above the Kerry till March 2c)th, 1 79'^.

In Jtily Rev. Klias Hull received $6 for preaching one day. Rev. Mr. Tappan, James Thurston of ICxeter, N. II., Nathan Tilton and Stephen Hull preached during the season. Stephen Hull was settled in the course of the year.

At the beginning of the century it may be well to [lause and briefly note the progress made during the la.st hundred years. One hundred and forty-six years have passed since the famous Agreement of 1654 was signed, and many and great have been the changes during that long period. Within the last century many of the dangers which surrounded our ancestors at its l)eginning have disap[)eared, and many difficulties, deprivations and hardships attendant on pioneer life have vanished and |>eace and plenty everywhere prevails.

The revengeful red man has died out and the fear of the tomahawk and scalping knife no longer terrifies the peaceful inhabitants, nor are they compelled to flee to forts and garrisons for safety and protection. Tradition pcrpeluales the memory of their atrocious deeds and heartless cruelties. As mementos of that "reign of terror" we have numerous stone im[)lements of their time and, also, the Indian ground at the river, where they loved to build their wigwams. We have the " Willows " near Tappan lunery's : their famous workshop, where their arrow heads were made and, perhaps, many of their tools. Their relics and traditions linger, but the race has gone to the '* happy hunting ground" and no one mourns their departure.

New branches of business are becoming prominent and will, eventually, rank as the leading industries of the town. The steady progress of the last century has accomplished much, physically and morally, but only the initiatory step has been taken, leaving much for the present century to complete. lOducation has been established upon a firm basis, being provided for among the annual appropriations of the town, as other indispensible items.

History Of Amrshurv

I'he wild, rough scenery of the first century has given place to cuhivated fields and cheerfiil villages, well-graded highways have taken the place of ** cart paths spotted through the woods," and modem machinery is beginning to supplant the slow hand work of the olden time. 'J'he sons may now reap ihe benefit of the institutions which their fathers founded, and feel thankful that they are surrounded with so many conveniences and comforts.

L'lsl year the Masl parish decided to repair the meetinghouse and a tax of ^402. 43 was now assessed for that purpose and committed to David Weed to collect. The three largest uix payers were Capt. Joseph Hoyt, ^19.18; Nathan I^ng, Esq., 5519.04 ; Capt. John Harnard, 1^6.58. Capt. Hoyt's tax was more than treble that of any other, excepting Long and Barnard. The repairs were not fully completed this year.

May 2 2(1. A council was called to consider the exixjdiency of dismissing Rev. David Smith, pastor of the Second church, and he was dismissed.

Moses Sawyer, Richard K. Sawyer, Benjamin (iuile and Enos (leorge were appointed as teachers. The pay was small, Richanl K. Sawyer receiving but ^28 for thirteen weeks and Moses .Sawyer, an experienced teacher, but $4 per week.

The town was very nnich alarmed at the appearance of the small-pox in the early part of the year, and the selectmen took John Welch's house for a pest-house, paying him $S therefor.

About this time the carriage business was started at West Amesbnry by Michael iMnery and William Little. From this of Massttchusctts, printed in 1828.

smalt beginning the business has gradually increased till Amesbury has l)ecome noted the world over for its carriages. l*Vom Amesbury and Merriniac carriages are shipped to California, Soudi America, Australia and hundreds of other places.

Mr. ICmcry was a wood- worker and Mr. Little a plater, the former living at South Amesbury and the latter at West Amesbury. Mr. Stephen lliiiley wiis the trimmer. i'he several parts were made in different shops and it was ({uite a task to get them together by way of exchange. In fact, it was a slow proi:ess lo complete a carriage. Il is believed dial the firsl (Xirriage was built at West Amesbury, although that |)oint is not fully settled, 'i'he business was commenced at Newbury a few years earlier on a small s<uile.

There seems to have been two parties at this time, as on the election of representative we find Christopher Sargent receiving 79 votes and John Merrill 64. At the ( lovernor meeting Caleb .Strong received 67 votes and IClbridge (lerry 56. There was evidenUy sonie excitement in politics.

July 2(1. The lOast parish held a nieeting and voted to lay out ;^4oo on the meeting-house in conjunction with the pew holders, and a committee was chosen to ascertain what repairs were neetle<l. No doubt work had commenced, biU there was a dilTerence of opinion as to the extent 01' the repairs. This seemed lo have caused most of the trouble. The meeting was adjourned to the iOth insl., when the conunittee were instnu!ted to |)roceed with the repairs, and the Asses.sors in.structeil to \nxy over the tax to ihe c<iinmiltee. At a further adjournment it was decided to hire the money and the committee '* to go on and repair the meeting house as fast as in their judgment may be thought i>eneri< ial to the parish."

Sept. 9th. .\ warrant was issued to notify the parish to meet on the 24th inst. " to see the minds of the parish concerning building a Cubaloe or spire to the meeting house."

The people assemble*! agreeable to <:all and *' voted that the parish approve of what the conunittee has done in building the steeple, and they proceed to build a spire as they shall think best, ever relying on the judgment of the committee, therefore we sulMiiit the whole affair to them wishing them to proceed and finish the mci.'ling house as soon as it can conveniently l>c done."

Kli CJale, Joseph Bartlett and Joseph Morse were the committee, and they took the liberty to build a spire or "cubaloe" without special instructions on that point. 'I'he puritanical spirit of the times was opposed to nil ornamental work, and hence the opposition in this matter. Hut the committee were fully sustained, and their work approved by the meeting, which having pa.ssed a vote of confidence, bade them go on as fast as f>ossiblc. When built at the parsonage in 1715 it was a plain building without porch or spire, the western porch being added when rebuilt in 1761. J'he repairs were not carried forward very ra]>idly and this year saw but a small part of the work done.

At the Mills a tlistrict tax was assessed to raise $249.52 to pay for a school-house. The whole number of persons taxed was sixty-two and the heaviest tax payer was ('apt. John Ikirnnrd. This was probably the oM brick school-house on KrientI street, which is still slMuding near its fii>it location, and occupied as a dwelling house.

('apt. John Siiwyei of the West parish died July 7th. He was a prominent man, having served as sele<tman sevcnil years an<l in various other olliees.

The male teachers this year were Moses Atwood at the Ferry, Moses Sawyer at the River, Josiah Palmer at the Mills, and pM-njamiu (luile at Pleasant Vallev.

The selectmen were ordered to " in(|uire upon what condition the highway by Davis* mill can be exchanged and make report next meeting." This mill, standing very near the site of the present hat factory, was, probably, in grinding order at this time. The writer <an remember il standing in a shalteretl ccm dition some fill v live years ago.

l''eb. 2 2(1. Snow and hail began to fall and la.sted a week, making the crust so hard that teams could ])ass over the fences anywhere. This was one of the winters which old people fifty years ago were wont to tell of, wht-n no roads were broken out ni^cl |>cople went to mill with their hiind-sleds mro^ ihv lie! I Is, throiib'h the woods iinil over the leiiues, which wennowhere seen,

The rei>airs on the Sandy Hill uieeting- house were not yet fully completed, although the appropriation was exiiausied. More ntoney being needed, a meeting was held and the siiin of 1(400 raised to finish ihc work. Mr. Joseph Itartlelt was the (contractor for the work an<l was but poorly ]>aid. 'Ihe total sun) raised was ;f>8oo. The following cut, although not a [lerfeet picture of the venerable church, has a general resemblance of the house and ndjaceut groimds.

ing. It was one of those sultry days of autumn, which seem to linger after summer has gone. As night approached, the clouds hung thick and dark in the west, gradually advancing till overhead, when there seemed no cessation of the rattling thtmder and forked lightning. He drove his team through the I'^erry street, singing some familiar psalm tune, until coming near Sandy Hill mccting-house, when he was instantly killed by lightning nnd, also, his four cattle. The cattle were buried the next day on the sand lot now owned by R. W. Patten, Ks(|.

Oct. 8th. Maj. William Lurvey died. He was a sea captain, having followed the sea in his younger days. He held many offices in town and was elected representative in 1798. He was a son of Benjamin Lun'ey, Ksi\., and lived at the Ferry in the house sui)sequently owned by ICliphalet Oraves, lCs(|., and which has recently given place to Mr. Savage's new house. In 1794 he was elected the first captain of the Amesbury and Salisbury artillery company and major of the regiment in 1 800.

A school district t.i\ was assessed in district No. 2 in the West parish, amounting to ^200.8 7, to pay for a new school house. Of the forty-five persons t;ixed. fourteen were descend ants of Willinm Sargent and bore that name.

Until within some twenty-five years a powder house was standing upon one of the Pond hills, commonly known as -*(!apt. Weed's hill." It was a small round building very much like the one on Brown's hill in Salisbury, which has recently been repaired. About a (|uarter of a century since, the "town stock" (as the amunition was called) was kept in Deacon Orlando Sargent's corn house, but, at this time, it was deemed prudent to place it at a distance from other buildings. William Currier and Rbenezer Weed supplied the bricks to build the new house, which were, probably, made near the brook just west of the house of Mr. (!urrier. This house, now demolished, was last occupied by the late David Blaisdell. The following order was found with the reconis of this year: "Oct. 12th Ordered to Wm Currier Eleven dollars iV 25 in full it being for bricks he supply d to hiiilcl the i)Owder house 11.25." Kl>enezer Weed recived a similar order and the total cost of the bricks was $22.50. Ephraim Weed received j 10.40 for lal>or and hauling materials. William Sawyer received ;^i2 for lime. Maj. Isaac Whittier received **;$20jfor lalH)r and stufT," and this, proltably, included the mason's work.* The total cost was ;|>64.90.

Moses Sawyer kept school thirteen weeks at the River and eleven weeks at the Highbnds. Siunucl Ikilch kept .scIumiI eight weeks and Daniel C Stevens six weeks at the Mills.

A committee was this year chosen to consider an exchange of the highway at Davis' mill and re])ort at a future meeting. Mr. K. Pearsons, the noted "toll keeper" at Deer Iskmd bridge, owned the land here, and the move was i)rol>ably to straighten the road which nm south of the present one, over the north cant of the bluff. This is the date of the present location.

Ship-building was the most importaiU mechanical branch pursued and in connection with fishing was fast building up this section of the town. There was also some shipping owned here, and engaged in the West India trade which was then profitable.

'llicri* was some Iroiihle this year about parish taxes. 'ITic ICpiscopalians wished to pay for the support of Mr. Bass, at Newbnry|>ort, anrl the Ilaptists protested against paying for the support of prearhing which they did not believe in. The East parish voted a cpininittee to inquire into the matter. ITie law recjuiring all to supjwrt the regular church was fast becoming un|)opular and destined to fall before public opinion.

April \i\. Oilando S.Mrgcnl, l'iS«|. died, lie had taken a very prominent part in town affairs, especially during the critical times of the revolution. His first appearance as a town officer was in 1 762, wh('n he was rhosen Warden, and from this date he was re|)eatcflly chosen to fill various positions. He was one of the committee to build the pound in 1772, and held the office of selectman in 1773-4-83, and representative in 1781- 3. He was repeatedly chosen moderator of meetings, and was on various conuuittees. In 1777 he allowed the town to build a place in his com house to keep the powder and other amunition, which was rather a dangerous experiment. He lived a few rods east of the new house built by his grandson, the late Orlando S;irgent. lie was the son of Moses Sargent, and of the fourth generation from William ist.

March 17th. Ichabod March died. He was a descendant of John March, one of the early settlers of Salisbury. In 1 768 he obtained leave and built a house on the corner opposite the residence of (leo. W. liardett, on the spot where the Sandy Hill meeting-house was built, and the hills where he planted his com may yet be seen very distinctly.

There was n school district tax assessed on the Ferry (listriet this year, amounting to ^^681.89, and the largest tax payers were C'a|)t. Jose|)h Hoyt, $67. 15, Nathan Long, ^47.36, Willibee Hoyt, »^i.S.52, Joseph Morse, $18.17, Capt. William Bartlett, 517.9^, David I/>well, 517.79, J^'^cob R Currier, $16.85, John llartlctt, Si 4.10, James Hailey, $13.88, Timothy Challis, ^13.87, Jacob Merrill, $12.49, l»cnjamin Merrill, $11.45, ^^»tiuel Kendrick, :fi 10.26. The school-house was built by subscription a few years since, and it is probable that the district now |)aid for it by this lax. The whole munber of persons taxed was 124. 41

Moses Sawyer kept school in " Esq. Sargent's district," 'ITionias .Archibald at the IJon's Mouth, Moses Merriman at llirchen Meadow, and Solomon Ciagc at the Highlands.

In 1798 the Friends in town began to think about enlarging and repairing their meeting-house, and advice was asked of the Seabrook monthly meeting. A committee was apix)inted to consult with Friends here, and the advice given was " to build new." But the work seems not to have been commenced till this year. The Amesbury preparative meeting now ap])ointed a committee to purchase a suitable lot, and the house formerly standing on the lot now occupied by the Free Bapti.st church was built the latter part of this year or the first of 1804.

The selectmen were this year ordered to take a new valualion and, also, "to put out the poor U) the best advantage," which means the least expense.

Nov. 5th. Presidential election occurred and nineteen electors were to be voted for, to which Massachusetts and Maine were entitled. The Federal ticket received fifty-eight votes and the Republican forty-six. This was President Jefferson's second election, and the excitement which attended his first election had evidently died away, judging by the small vote cast. At this date the i)opulation was more than seventeen himdred, and there may have been three hundred and fifty voters in town. If S4>, less than one Ihini wcw at the meetini;.

The Secon»l church having been without a settled minister since the dismissal of Mr. Smith in 1800, now extended a call to Rev. Samuel Mead, which was accepted, and he was installetl the first Wednesday in June. Rev. Mr. Wadsworth preached the sermon.

built. The sum assessed was ^307.23, of which amount lliomas VVorthen paid 521.77, John Huntington $18.69, Elijah Clough 518.29, John Clough 518.27, Amos Huntington $16.48, Ephraim (loodwin 521.28, Thomas (Joodwin $13.41, Aciuilla Martin $13.66, Isaac Martin $12.56, David Huntington $11.89, William Worthen 5i 1.19, William (loodwin $10.59, and Elijah Huntington $10.05. The Pond Hills district purchased tlie school-house built a few ycnrs ;igo on private ground, and a tax of $203.58 was assessed to pay for it.

iKist year an effort was made to establish an academy at Martlett's C'orner for the benefit of Amesbury and Salisbury. It was proposed to raise $2000 by subscription, as the ca])itil needed to carry out the design of the friends who were interested in the measure. This capital was divided into two hundred shares of $10 each, which were readily taken in the two towns, 'i'he company was organized September loth, 1804, by the choice of Jonathan Ireland, clerk, Nathan Ix)ng, treasurer and collector, John l>arnnrd, Nathan l/)ng, Joseph Moyl, Samuel Nye, David Currier, Isaac Whittier, ('hristopher Sargent, ICbene/er IVarley and l^zekiel lOvnns, conuniltee. The plan was to convert the Presbyterian meeting-house, which was built for Mr. Hibbert some years since, into a school-house for the use of the company. The premises were accordingly purchased of Deacon David Tewksbury and others, and preparations made to fit the church for the use of the school. There was, however, some dissatisfaction in regard to the location, which was damp and thought to be unfit for school puq)oses. Capt. Joseph Hoyt and Nathan lA)ng, Es([., asked and obtained leave of the company to move the building across the road fi*om its location, near the late lOzekiel IJarnard's, to land which they had contracted for of William Barnard and William Hartlett, ])rovided it should be done without expense to the company. An exchange of land was, also, allowed, and the beautifiil location now known as the "Academy lot" thus secured. Hut to remove this large church up the hill on to the desired spot was found to be no very easy or desirable task, and the measure was abandoned.

The company now authorized the committee to build a suitable house, and measures were immediately taken to carry this determination into efTect. In the mean time Messrs. Hoyt and Long had sold the church, and it was subsequently converted into Capt. Valentine Ikigley's bam, a much more appropriate use. I'hus after various changes the right conclusion was reached, and a nice, tasty and commodious building sccureil which was a credit to the town and company.

There is little doubt that C!apt. Hoyt and Mr. lA)ng wcro entided to a large share of the credit of securing this fine location and building for die school. Although the organization was completed last year, the many changes had delayed the work till the spring of this year, and the building was not raised till June 1 8th. It was completed by October ist, when a proprietors' meeting was held in it and measures taken to secure the services of an efficient preceptor. Mr. Jabez P. Fisher was offered the position, but declined, and Mr. Abner Kmerson was chosen, and accepted.

Mr. Emerson was given full charge of l>oth male and female departments, being authorized to employ a preceptress and receive the tuition of lliat |)ortion of the sirhool lo <:ompens«ite him. Thus after a little more tlian a year from the first meet ing, the school was in operation under efficient instructors.

A fire was discovered at 4 a. m. on December 24lh on the premises of the Nail factory, which burnt that l)uilding, a grist mill, two blacksmith iiho\ts and three hundred cords of wood. It was described as the greatest conflagration then known. The damage was esliuKited at ^80,000, which in those tin)cs was a very large sum.

Susanna Goodwin's house was sold by the town for $3.50 and turned into a pig pen by the purchaser. She was a i>oor woman, hel|)ed by the town for many years, and lived on the lank of the river, near 'i'homas Page's.

Dr. Samuel Ordway died July 6th and Dr. Aaron Sawyer on the 30th of August, the fonner living in the I'^ast parish and the latter in the West parish. 'l*hey had lx)th been prominent uicn for many years and popular physicians in town. Their descendants are not numerous, but mostly reside in town.

Capt. John Currier died Dec. 221I, aged 80 yeans, 1 month, 5 days. Capt. Cairrier's first appearance as a soldier on duty was in 1756, when he received a lieutenant's commission from the royal governor to fight in defence of his king at l.ake (Icorge. Here he was faithful to the cause he had undertaken to defend. Subse(|uently when matters between the mother country and colonies grew serious he was one of the first to organize minute men for the preservation of their liberties. Immediately after the fight at Lexington he hastened with his company to the scene of action ready to defend the cause with his life, if need l>e. His company did good service at Bunker Hill, and he was honored anil respected by (jen. Washington. Through the long struggle which followed, his labors and influence were given to the cause which was deiU" to his heart, and he was largely instrumental in obtaining men and money to meet the numerous calls which were made u|>on the town. He was chosen chairman of the board of selectmen in 1768, which was his first term of service, and was again chosen to the office in 1769 ^13~1S''7^~19' ^y occupation he was a farmer and shoemaker, living on the homestead of his fath'er at the Pond hills, where his grandson and namesake, John Currier, now lives. He was of the fourth generation from Richard ist, and married al>out 1751, Mary Wells, granddaughter of Rev. Thomas Wells.

March 28th. Capt. Barnard I^well died at sea on board the* schooner Daniel, and three days aftenvard the vessel was cast away on Plum Island. Tnily this was an unlucky voyage. Capt. Lowell lived at the Terry, and like many odiers there, followed the sea for many years. He was lK)rn Jan. 21st, 1760, and was 47 years old. His father*s name was William.

May 24th. Six men were drowned in the Merrimac. They were going after a freight of hay with a gondola, and, having a fair wind and plenty of it, crowded on all sail, which caused the boat to run under and upset sufficiently to throw all hands into the river. This was Sunday afternoon and happened in the vicinity of Plea-sant Valley. Joshua Weed and William IloyI were among the number drowned.

On the 2(1 of July last year President Jefferson issued his proclamation interdicting all Hritish vessels from the harbors and waters of the United States.* This embargo bore heavily upon the shipping interest of the country, and was felt to some extent in Amesbury, and to give expression to public feeling a meeting was held August 24th, and the following vote was passe<l : ** Voted to petition the President of the United States praying him to suspend the operation of the law laying an embargo on vessels of the United States." "Voted to accept the petition that was then rend in the meeting, and that the Selectmen forward the same to the President." The embargo was anything but popular in Amesbury as it stopped ship-building, an<l the ship-yards were idle and the many car])enters out of employ.

June 27th. A tcm]>cst of wind and rain did much damage to buildings in lown, and hlcw down (wo thirds (»!' dtc pines al the laurel ground across the river.

Ca\)i. Robert Sargent died January 28ih in the 921! year of his age. He was l)om in the West |)arish in 1716, and served the town in various offices, l>eing selectman in 1 758 and 1 76c;. He was a man of some note, having held commission in the militia for some years.

Col. Isaac Whittier died February loth, at the West |>arish, aged 53, having served as selectman in 1791 and ten subse- (^uent years. He was chosen chairinan of the board at his firbt tenn, and served as such six years. He was also ijuite a military man, rising to the rank of colonel, which was a great mark of distinction at that lime. He lived at the River.

April 27th. Capt. Isaac Randall died, aged eighty-two years. He was an innhokler for many years on Water street at the Kerry, and his tavern house is now owned and occupied by Mr. JonaUiun Morrill. He served on the board of selectmen in 1770, 1772 and 1773, itnd was chosen moderator at one or more meetings. Where he was born we have no means of knowing, the only mention of the name on the early re( ords being the ntarriage of **John Randall iS: Lydia Muzzy of Cape Porpos, July 23, 1C89." The name does not ai)pear again till 1751. when a daughter was born to C'ajX. Isaac Randall.

April 2\i\. I>r. Nathan lluse tlied, aged ninety two years. Dr. lluse came from West Newbury about the year 1 739, when he was about twenty-two years old, and settled at the Highlands on the old road south of ls:iac W. lloyt's, where he bought a place and established his home. Towards the middle or latter part of his life he built a large house on the hill not far from his old one, which gave a fine view of the country round about. If is practice lay in all directions, scattered among the sparse inhabitants. For about seventy years Dr. Huse was in practice more or less, respected by all, and dying at a good old age, which few attain. After his death, the house was sold and removed lo Newton, N. H., leaving the cellar to mark the old s|)ot. The Doctor was the father of eleven or twelve children, nnd one of his grandchildren, Stephen Huse, is now living in Merrimnc.

Ship-building had again revived and the cari)enters were busy in all the yards. There were built on the river this year twentyone ships, thirteen brigs, one schooner and seven other vessels of various dimensions, making forty-two in all. This business was building up the Kerry faster than any other section of the town. Ship-yards were dotted along the river, several at the Ferry, one at Thomas (loodwin's - now William IC. VVorthen's - one at Isaac Martin's, near John IJrown^s, one near David Huntington's - now John Huntington's - and one in front of Moses Huntington's. Farther up the river were several yards, where occasionally vessels were built and floated down to NewburyiK)rt for sale.

In 172^ the inhabitants of Jamaco were terribly frightened by the report, which had been suddenly spread, that the Indians were coming clown on the settlement. All fled to the fort for their lives, expecting to be butchered before they got there. Among the number was .Anna Cottle's mother, and while there this puny child was ushered into the workl, where she was destined to remain nearly a century. Who. at that time, could have imagined the scenes through which she lived to pass?

Deacon David Tuxbury, one of the principal men who, some years since built Mr. Hibbert a Presbyterian church, this year sold half an acre of land at the Pond's Mouth, embracing the outlet, to the Nail Faciory company, of which Kbenezer Felton was agent. From this time forth, the flowage of the i)ond has been controlled by the companies owning the water power at the Mills. Mr. Tuxbury lived where Mr. Nathan Wells now lives, and was a very extensive land -holder.

May 31st. One of the most extensive conflagrations known occurred at Newbury port. Hundreds of people were left homeless and destitute. Amesbury people were there, rendering all the assistance possible ; but, with the means of those days, little effective service could be done. The business i)ortion of the town was nearly destroyed by this "great fire."

Amesbury, ready to assist the sufferers, called a town meeting to consider what should be done, and ** Voted that the Selectmen furnish the School Committee of ICach district with a subscription ])aper and that the Committee Man of each ilistrict is requested to go around to the people of his own district and see what they will give towards the relief of the sufferers of Newburyporl by the lale fue."

Jan. 19th. Isaac Huntington died. He lived south of (Plough's hill, back of Pleas;mt Valley, - a beautiful place, com inanding a splendid view of ihe river and surrounding country. The house was torn down nearly liUy years ago.

March 31st. The Kast parish held a meeting to consider the reipiest of Rev. Stephen Hull for dismission. His reasons a.ssigned were : '* ist Because of the ilifficulties and objections which have and do still attend his sup|>ort in this place by which his feelings have been greatly hurt. 2*^ That in consequence of these things he thinks he has great reason to appreins-mRY OF AMKsnuRY. 331 hend th»il his usefulness has been obstructed and will continue to be impeded in this place. Therefore for these reasons ^' others which he will assign at the meeting of the parish he requests a dismission." He requested the use of the parsonage a year, and six month's salary in case of dismission. His re(|uest was fmally granted, with the exception of the six mcmth's salary. His dismission by council was ordered at the expense of the parish. Mr. Mull found strong opposition in the parish for two or three years j)ast, and sometimes his op|X)- nents had control of the meetings. At the annual meeting April loth, 1810, it was voted to raise 1^400, which was his original salary, and hardly enough to live on at the unusually high prices which prevailed, and "not to give Mr Hull one cent." IJut the meanest vote which his enemies could pass was "not to pay Mr Hull for building a necessary house." The majority of the parish were, however, fully aware of the need of raising his salary, and called a meeting July 23d and voted him a salary of ^^500 during his ministry.

At the May meeting, the town ordered the selectmen to provide a dinner for the sohliers on general muster day. Trainings were popular at this time and alTorded a good time for the young and even the aged. May drill, when the company turned out for inspection, was to the boys a great day ; but the regimental drill on " Hen Merrill's plain," or near the Middle cemetery on that large plain, was looked forward to with the greatest impatience.

The first engine men found on the records are Theophilus (Jouhl, ICbenezer Rand, Nathan Nutter, William Tnissell, James Morse, Acpiilla Martin, jr., William Swett, Knoch Wells, Nathan Kimball, Philip Currier, Thomas Currier, Nathan Wells, Charles Hoyles. ()rlan<lo S. Hayley, Joseph Davis and Rphraim Hlasdell, jr. These were appointed by the selectmen.

June 18th. War was declared against (Ireat ISritain. After the declaration of war, the militia was drilled and put in order for any call which might be made. 'The Ferry company was drilled twice each week on the "wolf peet" hill near Goodwin's creek, and the company in the West parish was drilled on their paracle ground near the meeting-house.

There was strong opposition to the war from the Federal party in town, and I he writer has more than once heard the remark that nothing was gained by it. it was, however, exciting times even here, as prei)arations went on for active service. But very few records are found relating to this war, and we are unable to give a full account or complete list of the soldiers in the service at this time.

July 1 8th. The Kast parish "voted to hire Nathaniel Kennedy to preach with them three months on prolxation," anil raised i^ioo to pay him. This was a singular move, as Mr. Hull was not yet formally dismissed by the council, which wa.s not held till early in 1813.

A new branch of business was this year intro<luced at the Mills, which has since become the principal business of the vii hige. A company wxs organized for the manufacture of satinet, and a brick mill built on Mill street. I'he company consisted in part of the following persons : Kzra Worthen, Paul Moody, Thomas Boardman, Jacob Kent, Mr. Rundlett and Mr. Wigglesworth. Itlzra Worthen was the agent. The mill was two stories high at first, but raiseil to three and afterwards greatly enlarged. During war times a good business was done here, and it was a valuable acquisition to the place, ft is now known as No. 6. .According to tradition, when the bri(ks were being made, a young lady and her beau iiad the curiosity to visit the yard, ami the former u.king a little stick wrote her name and the year on several bricks, which were spread out to dry. The bricks were laid in the wall of this mill and the date may yet be seen there.

Widow Judith liagley died at the l*ond Hills .August ist, aged ninety-seven yeai*s, four mi)nths, and four days. She was the great granddaughter of Williau) Siirgent, ist and daughter of Josejih and Judith Sargent, wlio lived at Bear Hill on land now owneil by Mr. Cyrus Sargent. Her birth occurred October ist, 1716, and her marriage with (Japt. John Bagley took place in 1 734, when she was sixteen years oh I. and she became the mother of tliirteen children. Joseph, her second son, died at l.ake (leorge ill 1 760 while in the service of the king, and Philip, her youngest son, is said to have been in the battle of Bunker Hill. He was afterwards sheriff and jail keeper at Newburyix>rt for al)OUt forty years, dying at the great age of ninety-five years. During the last years of her life she wc<5 blind, but retained her memory and hearing. She recollected the time when the road over the Pond Hills was nothing but a cart path spotted through the woods.

The <-ontinManfc of the war with ICngland prevented the imporlntion of n>rcign cloths, which created a demand for home manufactures to clothe the people and army, lliis demand encouraged the erection of a second mill by Jonathan Morrill, l^s(i., of Salisbury, (commonly known as Knsign Morrill.) The mill was located on Mill street, a few rods south of the one buill Inst year, nnd was n two-slory brick btiilding. It was subso«|ucnlly raised to three stories and greatly enlarged, and is now known as No. 5. Large quantities of cloth were made in this mill, more especially designed to clothe the .soldiers, but suitable for all. Mr. Morrill sold out after a few years and the mill became the pro)»erty of the Amesbury company.

('apt. Mntthins lloyt flicd the latter p;irt of ( >«tober or the first of November at West Amesbury. He was a descendant of John Hoyt, ist, and was of the fif^h generation. He was prominent in town affairs for many years about the revolutionary period, holding various offices of trust. Me w:ls somewhat of a soldier, ser\ed as collector for the West parish in 1775, and was on the committee of correspondence and safety in 1777. In 1782. 1783 and 1784 he w«xs on the board of selectmen and was chairman in 1 783. At <me period he kept tavern where the late Capt. J. W. Sargent lived, but finally removed to the Highlands, where he resided till his death.

.\ coimcil was convened in the early part of the year to consider the |)ropriety of dismissing Rev. Ste|)hen Hull, pastor of the I'^irst rhun:h. .\fter due deliberation his re<|uest was granted and the |)arish paid the expense of the council. Several ministers were employed during the remainder of the year, btit no one settletl pennanently.

The idea of building a poorhouse with Salisbury was discussed at the annual meeting «ind a committee chosen to meet a committee from that town, but nothing came of the attempt.

A fearful epidemic fever made its appearance in town this spring. At Pleasant Valley there were eighteen deaths in six weeks. On the West ])arish records arc found fifteen de;Uhs marked "fever," and it was generally believed to be "s|)Otted fever."

The committee chosen by the Irlast parish to supply the pulpit, re|>orted to the adjourned meeting that they had agreed with Rev. Benjamin Sawyer, of Cape lilizal>eth, for the year.

The record of soldiers who served in the war of 1812 is very scant and but few names have been found. The following received pay from the town for services performed mostly at Fort Phillips, Plum island, viz.: Stephen (lorden, (musician) Joseph Chandler, Richard Merrill, William Vickery, Charles Burroughs, Enoch Flanders, John l^essey 3d, James Niirhols, son of Jacob Hoyt, William Colby, Daniel dale, William Siuuulers, Siunuel Ordway, Timothy Currier, Thomas Colby ^d, James Foot, Thomas Huntington and Ihontas (ioodwin. No doubt there were more in the service, although volunteers were not numerous in this section, the war being unpopular, more especially with the Federal party.

On the 1 8th of May, the selectmen ordered "To Hezekiah Colby seventy five cents it being for two quarts of gin for the funeral of Sukey I^ne."

Times change with the years, an<l habits deemed right at one period wonhl be a disgrace at another. To-day the selectmen who should furnish seventy-five cents worth of gin for a fimeral would be politically dead. 'I wo of this board which supplied gin at the funeral were re-elected several times and, also, served as representatives to the Oeneral Court afterwards, and one as county commissioner.

July 2d. A town meeting was held to take some action in regard to a separation from Massachusetts, and, with other towns north of the river, lo join New Hampshire. Willoughbee lloyt, Lowell llagley and John Morse, jr., were chosen as a committee to consider the matter and consult with otlier towns "that recpiest a separation to see what method is most proper to be taken for that purpose." This was no fanciful movement, but there was a strong feeling that the river should be the boundary between the states. It was occasioned in part by the fact that taxes were then lighter in New Hampshire and, in all |)robability, would continue to be so. The measure, however, was not suc<!essfiil.

June 19th. Rev. Benjamin Sawyer was installed pastor of the l^ast parish society, with a salary of ^400 and the parsonage. He was born in Moothbay, Me., in 1782 and graduated at Dartmouth college in 1808.

month in the year. Very little ripe corn was found in the fall. Mr. James Chase commenced the manufacture of earthen ware at the River this year, which business he continued for al)out forty years at the same location on the river's Ixmk. At his death in 1858, his son l^hineas continued the businc*ss at his pottery on the new highway.

The northern tour of IV*sidcnt Monroe was the most noted event of the year. lie passed through the I'crry at 3 o'ttKn-k, p. M., stopping at the Mills long enough to visit the two factories and inspect the goods being manufactured. Southern presidents were very much interested in ship-building and manufactures. In 1789 Washington visited the l«'erry while on his way to Portsmouth, N. H. There was no special provision made for display on this occasion, although the President was treated with due respect and all (locked to see him.

** Voted That a committee be chosen for the purpose of informing themselves relative to the Iron c\: Nail Factory tax or the personal property thereof for the years 1816 & 1817."

It was thought by the meeting that the personal property of the Iron and Nail company was not fully taxed, and in order to ascerlain ihe lads iu ihe case, ihe above couuuillee was chosen. .After due investigation the committee rei>orted that the property was all taxed and nothing niore was done.

At the governor's meeting, held April 6th, it was voted by a poll of seventy-five votes in favor to fifty against, to hokl future town meetings two years at the ICasi parish to one year at the West parish. This arrangement occasioned great dissatisfaction at the west end and, at the rejjresentative meeting in May, the vote was reconsidered and the old alternate system continued.

Benjamin Lnrvey, Esq., died January 24th, aged eighty- three years. He lived at the Ferry, his house standing just north of the old school-house. There was hardly an office in town with which he had not been honored. He had l>een representative five years, selectman twelve years, was a candidate for senator in 1798, was freijucntly chosen moderator, and in short, had served the town and parish in nearly every capacity. His principal business seems to have l>een writing deeds and wills and settling estates, lie was, also, a teacher of navigation to private pui)ils. The diary which he kept for many years up to the time of his death, contains much valuable information.

The policy of allowing a discount for the prompt pajnnent of taxes was inaugurated this year by the allowance of six per cent, for thirty days, four per cent, for sixty days and three per cent, for ninety days.

A new school district was ordered, as follows: "Voted to set off from die Pond School district, the I'ond highway district as a separate school district."

Rev. Moses Welch was ordained pastor of the Second church in June. 'I'he ordination sermon was preached by Rev. Mr. 'I ompkins, and Rev. Benjamin Sawyer, of the First church, made the concluding prayer.

Marchant Cleaves died April 27th. He was by trade a tailor and lived at the ^fills, his house and little red shop standing near the Dr. Sparhawk place. In 1767 he petitioned the town for a piece of land at the I'crry to put a tailor shop on, that section then being the most populous part of the town. In 1787, 1888 and 1790 he served as selectman and seems to have been prominent in parish affairs. During the latter part

The population of the town has increased from one thousand eight himdred and ninety in the year 1810 to one thousand nine himilrcd and fifty-six the present year.

Thomas Huntington, son of the pensioner William Huntington, disapi^eared on the night of November 2 2d and no trace of him could be found. It was thoughl that he had l>ecn murdered and some arrests were made, but no proof was found of foul play.

March 2d. The body of Thomas Huntington, who mysteriously disappeared last November, was found in the Powow river, and it was thought ])robal)lc that he accidently fell in while crossing a plank connected with a foot path over some part of it.

Warren Ix)dge of Accepted Masons was chartcreil this year and the following arc the names of the charter members : Uenjamin Sawyer, Mdward Dorr, Lowell Ibgloy, John Colby, Nathaniel Kifield, Williaui (). Mills, Valentine Haglcy, (leorge W. lUgley, l)aniel l^JUg, James llorton, David Nayson, l>cnjamin R. Downes, William H. Hagley and Samuel Walton.

Oct. 28th. Valentine Colby ( father of the late 1 )eacon Peter Colby) sold the right to flow his land around the pond to the " Amesbury Nail Company, Amesbury Woolen and Cotton Manufacturing Company, Amesbury flannel Manufacturing Company, Salisbury woolen Manufacturing Company - David Nayson, Bar- zilla Ix^mbard and David Currier" limited lo the height of the dam at the Pond's mouth.* Manufacturing had already become an important branch of business at the Mills, and the al)Ove shows the mmibcr of companies in the village.

The "Amcsbury flannel Manufacturing Company" was incorporated this year with a capital of ^200,000, and annually made fifteen hundred pieces of flannel, containing forty-six yards each, five thousand pieces of sntinct, containing twenty-five yards each, imd employed one hundred and sixty operatives. Joshua Aubin, I^s(|., was the agent.

This year the hotel at the Mills, now known as the American house, was built by Mr. John Oilman. The old wooden building, which had been occupied by Mr. Daniel Ix)ng as a tavern, was removed to make room for the new brick building that was needed for the accommodation of the village.

The general muster was this year held at Rowley and embraced a full brigade, as in 181 7. The regimental muster, which was fonnerly held on Benjamin MerriU's plain, Brown's hill, Salisbury, the plain at the middle cemetery. West Amesbury, or at the i>lain below the chain bridge in Newbury, was sujicrceiled by the one muster of the entire brigade. This year the town gave the soldiers fifty cents each towards their expenses.

The common land near the house of Joseph Merrill, where the meeting-house stood, and sul)se(iuently the house of Col. March, was this year sold to David Currier.

The necessity of a bridge across the river at the Ferry was pretty freely discussed, an<l Robert Patten, Kaq., and others, by the approval of the town, petitioned the (General Court for a charter.

The noted event of the year was the arrival of General l«a l*ayette in this country. No little enthusiasui was awakened by the reception of this friend, who had rendered such valuable services nearly half a century since, in the cause of freedom. He arrived at Newburyi^ort August 13th and spent the night there. He was welcomed with every sign of joy. 'i Viuniphant arches lined his way and thousands flocked to see him. Amesbury people were there in large numbers to catch a glimpse of this French general and patriot, who had so nobly assisted their fathers.

April 17th. Dr. Jonathan French died. His practice in town was very successful. He lived in the house now owned by James Follansbee previous to his temi)orary absence at New York.

'i'he town having become satisfied that putting out the i)oor was not the best way to support them, instnicted the selectmen to buy or hire a suitable farm for the purpose, 'i'he farm formerly owned by Matthias Merrill, near S^umders' hill, was accordingly purchased and fitted to acconunodate the |>oor.

Dr. IMiilip Towle couunenced the practice of medicine at the Ferry, taking the place of Dr. Rufus Hill, who removed to the West. He was somewhat noted as a violin player of sacred nmsic, and for many years assisted the choir at the Sandy Hill church, as many elderly i)ersons well remember. He was highly esteemed as a physician.

inent man in the West parish. He served as selectman seven years, representative three years and belonged to the sixth generation from John Hoyt, ist.

The erection by the 5>alisbury company of the large mill on High street, Salisbury, now known as No. 2, gave additional impetus to business at the Mills. Its foundation was laid upon the ledge which underlies the surface in this vicinity, and a great deal of blasting hnd to be dcmr in ]>rcparing the race coui-sc. One person was killed and several houses were damaged by the falling stones, which perforated the roofs and sunk to the ground floor, greatly frightening the occupants.

A proposition was submitted to the annual meeting for the formation of a new county, but the town disapproved of the measure by a vote of one hundred and twelve nays to five yeas.

Alice Colby livetl for many years in a small house standing beside the burying groimd at Bartlett*s Comer, and was helped by the town. She was now dead and the town sold her house at auction.

At the annual meeting it was "voted to raise fifty dollars in addition to the smn already raised to support the poor and be applied towards the support of the Ragley Boys." There were three brothers and a nci)hew non compos^ viz. : William, Knoch and John liagley and Thomas Lane. These were for many years maintained by Susan and Polly Bagley, sisters of the Bngley boys and aunts of Thomas T^ine, and living on Perry street in the house across the lane from J. v.. Cowden, lOscj. Many will remember these simple old men (although always called "Boys") who were always together and always lived in ])eace. They were constant attendants at chuich, occupying the long front seat in the west gallery of the Sandy Hill meeting-house. Their oddities were sometimes very amusing, but jxiople were very kind to Uiem. During the latter part of their lives die town |)arUy supported them.

'llie Second church extended an invitation to Rev. Peter S. Kaion to l)ecome their pastor, which was accepted, and he was ordained September 20th.

John Huntington died at Pleasant Valley March 2d, in the eighty-ninth year of his age. He liveil on the homestead of his ancestors, and some claim in the house built by \Villi;un, ist. The farm is now owned by Mr. Joel H. Davis.

The town held a meeting January 29th to remonstrate against the petition of the Newburyport Bridge comi^any to lower the bridge below the height specified in the charter. A strong resolution was passed condemning the bridge as an infringement upon the rights of the public generally, and a committee was chosen to remonstrate against the petition.

I'he chain bridge at Deer island, which had stood for nearly forty years, broke down February 6th, while being crossed by a team loaded with timber, and precipitated David Jackman and Frederick Carleton with their load anil two yoke of oxen into the swift current below. The men were rescueil, but the oxen were drowneil.

ITie ferry at Patten's creek was rented to Col. Stephen Bailey for dye years at one dollar per year. It was never rented again and has now liecome entirely worthless.

In 179S a road was laid out from Indian creek, near John Huntington's, to the I5ailcy farm on the old Hunt road, running nearly parnllel with the Huttonwood road ; but it was never opened for public use and was this year discontinued.

The Provident Institution for savings in Salisbury and Amesbury was incorporated this year. Jacob Brown, Esq., was chosen president and Robert Patten, l*ls<|., treasurer. Tlie office was i\{ llu- connlinj; mom ol the factory.

At ihe annual meeting the selectmen were ordered to divide the River highway district. Their doings in widening " Daniel Weeds lane'* were laid before the town and accepted.

The famous breakwater across Joppa flats was commenced this year and thousands of tons of stone were boated down the river from Pleasant Valley by Mr. John Huntington and Mr. David (loodwin to fill in between the timbers. Mr. Huntington lived to see it all disiippear.

A committee was chosen at the annual meeting to a,scertain whether or not the burying ground in the ICast parish belonged to the town, and report. The committee reported in the affirniative. The one acre bought of Edmund I'llliott in 1663 had been enlarged from !ime lo time by the town and there could be no doubt nbout the ownership. It needed fencing and the town decided to build the fence.

A meeting wns held .\pril 5th to tak<- measures to make a survey of the town, agrecnblc to an act of the legislature. The selectmen were intrusted to manage the matter.

May T2th. .A meeting was called to divide school district No. 9, and the following vote was passed : "Voted to sett off that part of No 9 school district which lies to the west of the

At the Noveml)er election, the famous contest l)etween C?aleb Crushing and (laylon T. ()sgo<Hl l>cgan. ICach was willing to represent this C'ongressional district in C'ongrcss. 'ITie vote stooil : Cushing one hundred and thirty-nine, Osgood one hundred and thirty-six, and fifty-eight scattering. SOnie twelve or fifteen meetings were held to detemiine the matter.

Christopher Sargent, Kscj., died November loth, being more than ninety years of age. He was the son of Moses and Sarah Sargent and was born May i8th, 1740. William, ist, was his greatgrandfather. For nearly half a century he was a very prominent man, holding all the offices in the gift of the people. He was first chosen selectman in 1771, and subs(|uenUy served the town in that capacity for thirteen years, his kist term l)eing in 1 81 3. He was representative for fourteen years and town clerk for nine years. During the revolutionary stniggle he was one of the few who directed affairs, and gave his whole influence to the cause of freedom. His home was the residence now owned and occupied by his gramlson, Moses Sargent, near lie;u: hill, lie not i>nly managed his large farm, hut, as a justice of the peace, wrote deeds and wills, settled estates and performed many other duties which were connected with the office in those days. He was the owner of the famous negro "Forte," whom he bought at West Newbury for ^30. Forte was a jolly fellow, a good fiddler and |)opular with the yoimg folks, who generally consulted him in regard to the management of their frolics, as without him anil his fiddle hut lit- Ue could be done in that line. Hut his promotion in this direction rather unfitted him for waiting upon the esquire, and, in fact, he finally became more inilependent than his master. His fiddle brought him into such general notice that he found it necessary to buy a horse, which he kept at the esquire's, and, like the old-fashioned aristocracy, generally gave some boy a four-pence half penny to saddle and bring him llie town conchided to fix the compensation of the school committee as follows: "Voted that the School Committee who shall ser\e in future shall each be aUowed six dollars a year as a compensation for his services."

Oct. loth. A town meeting was held to consider the petition before the county commissioners for a new road from Moses Sawyer's, at the River, to Joseph Merriirs. The meeting took strong ground against this new road, offering all the opposition possible, but without effect, as it was laid out by the commissioners nnd ordered to be built.

Jacob Ikigley Currier, a soldier of the Revolution, died August 3d, at the age of eighty years. He owned and lived in the house now owned by John K. Cowden, ICsq., at the Ferry.

On the 28lh <>f Dereniber fCplirnini Wee<l died at the Pond Hills, where he was born December 29th, 1750, being eightyone years old lacking one day. He w»xs town clerk twentyseven years and selectman three years, 'llie old house in which he was born and died stood just south of Mr. O. Everett Sargent's. It wns a very ancient house and may have been built by the first ICphraim Weed, son of John Weed, ist. It was torn down soon after his death.

The organization of the C!ongregational church of Salisbury nnd Amesbury Mills was completed December 6th. Elcazer A. Johnson was chosen clerk nnd held the office more than forty years. Jonathan A. Sargent and Oeorgc Perkins were chosen deacons. No minister was settled at this time.

The "middle road," laid out la.st year by the commissioners, wns mi popular with n large majority of the peoi)le and it was determined to get rid of it if possible. At the annual meeting the selectmen were authorized to build it, but, in May, the selectmen were ordered to notify the commissioners that the town refused to build it. Many i)eo|)le thought that there was no occasion for cutting the farms to tiieir great damage and compelling the town to be at great ex|)ense in working it. liut the town became satisfied that there was no way to get rid of it, and July 2d a meeting w:ls called and Jonathan Morrill, jr., and Lowell Ikigley were chosen a committee to build it. It is really a very convenient road and could hardly be spared at present.

A very general alann spread through the land at this time, in conse([uence of the appearance of the Asiatic cholera in some of the large cities. Stringent sanitary measures were ailoptetl and every precaution taken to prevent its s])read. In this- town a meeting was held and a board of health chosen to take charge of the whole matter. A circular was adoptcil by the meeting and printed for distribution through the town. A very general "cleaning up time" followeil : cellars and rooms were whitewashed, lime sprinkled on ce.sspools and all foul places, and, in short, no such extensive s;uutary measures had l)een enforced since the settlement of the town. The heaUh committee were emi)owered to provide a hospital for the reception of all who might be taken with this plague, and to draw on the treasury for a sum not exceeding ;p3oo. Nothing since the old small-pox days had produced so nun h e\ciu>meiU as this dreaded Asiatic cholera. It iliil not sprea<l as expecteil anil there were no cases in town.

At the i)residential election in November there were three himdred ami fifty-five votes cast, divided as follows : Whigs, one hundred and ninety-four; Democrats, one hundred and sixly-one.

Dr. Philip Towle died March 4lh at Charleston, S. C, whilher he had gone for his health. 1 le was a very amiable pei-son ami highly esteemed by those who knew him.

chased l)y Mr. John C. Bartlett, to l)e removed to Bartlett's Corner; but l)acl luck prevented its arrival there. On its way, near Daniel Weed's lane, Mr. Joseph Boardman was accidentally killed while assisting in the removal. With a great deal of labor it was hauled oi)i)osite the late Joseph Merrill's and there sold to Mr. Jonathan Ring, who took it down and re-built it near Ring's bridge for his son George. It is now owned and occupied by Mr. Jonadian Ring, grandson of the first-named Jonathan King.

At the November meeting the articles of amendment to the Constitution of Massachusetts, in relation to compulsory supjX)rt of any particular sect of religion, came before the meeting and were adoiHcil by a vote of one hundred and thirty- five yeas to two nays.

Nov. i.;lh. This evening is remarkable for the great number of meteors which fell thick and fast to the number of three hundred, causing much alarm.

The selectmen were instructed not to ajiprobate the sale of wine, cider or other fermented liquors, and it was voted to recjuest the conunissioners not to license any person to sell the same in town.

The foregoing may serve to illustrate the change of population which had taken place during the last forty-five years. At this date the River district received ^40 more than the Corner district, but this has long since been reversed. Birch Meadow district received :>4 more than Bear Hill district, but, at present, the latter distri< t has more than treble the number of scholars of the former.

June 9th. Benjamin R. Hutchinson was drowned in the river near the landing while bathing, lie was a teacher, liaving taught at the Pond Hills during the |>ast winter.

A return of the crops in town was this year made to the legislature, from which the following is taken : " raised 8000 bushels of com, 2500 bushels of rye and barley and 900 tons of upland hay." In the West parish five hundred and fifty carriages were built, mostly chaises, eniploying one hundred and fifty hands and requiring a capital of 1^30,000.

For some five or six years past the idea of introducing the cultivation of silk has been entertained by a few persons, and the cultivation of the C'hinesc Mulberry tree has licen commenced in various towns in the county. In this town Capt. Thomas Bailey, a ship-builder, at the Ferry, owning the wharf and buildings recently owned by the late A. S. Bailey, Esq., had planted a large number of trees on land favorably situated for that puqx)se. At this time he had five thousand trees in fine condition, and more than one hundred thousand worms within ten days of maturity. His large store- house had been fitted for feeding the worms and everything seemed to promise success. But some evil-dis))osed ))ei'sons broke into the premises and satisfied their malice by throwing down the benches and destroying nearly all the worms. This was fatal to the silk culture in Amesbury, and only the scattered trees on various farms remained in a few years to preserve the memory of the "silk fever."

Several {>etitions were this year presented to the county commissioners for widening anil straightening roails, one of which was by William Pecker and others for improving the River road from the Ferry westward through Pleasant Valley. The town, as usual, opposed the measure, but without success.

The aged Revolutionary soldier, William Huntington, died February 15th. He lived on the road now known as Highland street in a one-story house, which is yet standing near Simon

Phillips'. He was in the army for some length of time and was present at the surrender of Burgoyne. For many years he drew a pension of eight dollars per month, which was his main support. He was nearly eighty years of age.

The new meeting-house at Salisbury Point was raised September I St and dedicated December 31st, when Rev. John Gunnison was installed pastor. The society adopted the title of "Union Evangelical Church of Salisbury and Amesbury," and is largely composed of Amesbury people.

Rev. Benjamin Bell, for several years pastor of the First church, died December 31st. In his young dajrs he. was an elwjuent preacher and drew full houses. He was a strong Calvinist, believing in infant damnation and seldom failed to preach his sentiments pretty plainly. In old age he was dependent ui)on the town for support and died in the almshouse.

Rev. Benjamin Sawyer resigned the pastorate of the First church in Amesbury, where he had labored since 18 14. Other societies in the villages had drawn away the members to such an extent that money for stated preaching could hardly be raised. Mr. Sawyer was the last minister settled.

The petition of Josiah B. Gale and others, filed la.st year for the improvement of the main street at the Mills and, also, a new bridge, was successful, and the selectmen were ordered to build a new stone bridge, provided Salisbury consented to the arrangement.

'ilie petition of William Pecker and others was, also, successful, and the River road received important alterations in numerous places. The order, however, was not fully carried out, causing some trouble forty years afterwards.

Capt. Thomas Bailey was allowed by the town to build a dam across the brook which divides the Ferry and Pleasant Valley school districts, near the late Ira Miles*, "provided he dont injure the road.** Mr. Ikiiley subsequently built a dam and mill here for grinding and other purjwses, and the road was changed to the south, over the heavy dam.

The town having assisted Aaron Colby while living, agreed after his death to aa|uit all claims to his estate, provided siifllicient security was given for the supix>rt of Abigail Colby, his widow.

The Universalist society of West and South Ainesbury built a meeting-house this year. It was located at West Amesbury, opix)site the residence of Jonathan H. Sargent, Kscj., on the main street.

The Ferry school district at the annual meeting voted that the rear fence be pulled up and sold, and the proceeds laid out on or about the house, and David L. Dearborn was chosen to carry the vote into effect. In 1834 the sum of 1^150 was expended on the premises, and, probably, this fence was built then, and, perha])s, contrary to the notions of some portion of the district.

Wmas Hale, a colored man, died November 2 2d. He was, many years ago, Deacon Orlando Sargent's slave, but where or when he bought him has not been ascertained. He lived at the Pond Hills in a small house nearly opposite the new house of Mr. B. F. Huntington, a while after leaving his master, and the cellar is yet to be seen. He afterwards removed the house to the Ferry, at the foot of (ioodridge's lane, where he lived nuny years. He was a constant attendant at church, occupying the north front pew in the east gallery of the Sandy Hill church. Mrs. Hale died in 1828 and the aged widower lived alone till his death.

Since the resignation of Rev. Benjamin Sawyer at the luist parish, the ])rojcct of dis|H)sing of the old mceting-hou.sc has been discussed, and an article was inserted in the warrant for the annual meeting to see what measures should be taken for the erection of a new house. The decision of the meeting was "that it is expedient to build a new house." The meeting was adjourned for two weeks, and, on re-assembling, it was "voted that the parish take the money that is sul)scril>ed and the jxirmsrroRv OF amfshury. 351 ish meeting house and build a new house and if there is any (lcfi<icncy to soil the jinrish house to make up the deficiency." A committee, consisting of Valentine IJagley, Amos Weed and Robert Patten, l''.s(|., was chosen to carry the vote into eflect. The i)lan was fc:isible and might have been carried out, but it was allowed to fall. through for want of resohition.

Oct. 30th. Rev. Joseph IT. 'lowne was dismissed from the pastorate of the Congregational church at the Mills, and on the 7th of l>c<cmbcr Rev. S(.Mh II. Kcelcr was installed.

The Powow Kiver bank was incoq)orated this year with a cai)ital of Si 00,000. The corporators were Scth Clark, Rol)ert Patten, Jonathan P. Webster and their associates. Seth Clark, sen., was chosen president and Nathaniel White cashier.

St. James Church was consecrated October 2 2d. It was a small building, oc( upying the site of the present church. The society had pre\ iously worshipped in Washington hall, and Rev. Joseph FI. Price was pastor in 1833. Rev. Henry M. Davis was now engage* I to supply the pulpit for one year.

This year people were very much alarmed by the appearance of small-pox in town. Several cases occurred and Jonathan Morrill, l''.s<|., ga\e up his house for a pesl-house. There proved to be but few cases and the excitement soon died away.

The removal of John (Ireenleaf Whittier to Amesbury is one of the |)rominent events of the year. He was lM)rn in Haverhill on the homestead of his ancestor, Thomas Whittier, in 1808. Although l)orn and reared on a fann, Mr. Whittier showed no special inclination to follow the calling of his ancestors, but early manifested a taste for literary pursuits. When but twenty years of age, he became editor of a paper in lUiston entitled the "American Manufacturer," and some two years later he assumed the responsible position of editor of the "New Kngland Review," printed at Hartft)rd, Connecticut, which connection coutimied for two \ears. Stibsefjuently he became corresponding editor ol the W Mslungton "National l'>a," which |M)sitiou he filled with marked ability for several years.

lads a charm which no other poet can claim. In the poem entitled the "Witch's Oaiighter," we find very toiichiiigly jwrtrayed the feeUngs of the dL>graced daughter in consequence of the frowns and jeers or those with whom she Is obliged to associate. His love of toleration and freedom is conspicuous in every line of the "Kxiles." Other |>oems <)f lo<:aI scenery are equally interesting and appropriate, sparkling with gems of thought which endear them to the descendants of those early pioneers, who settled this romantic valley.

Mr. Whitlier estahlished his home on I'riend street, at the foot of "Whitcher's" hill, to which he removed the present year. Most of hb popular |>ocnis have been written since his removal to Ameshury.

This year is specially noted for the sharp contest in regard to the town's share of the " Surplus Revenue." For several years the country had enjoyed great prosperity, business of all kinds had been good, revenue had accumulated in the Treasury, the national debt had been extinguished, and yet many millions remained in the Treasury for which government had no use. Under the apprehension that it might be used for bad purposes Congress very properly decided to deposit it with the states. This state cairicd the idea further and deposited it with the towns. It soon became a bone of contention, dividing the people into two classes, the one favoring an equal distribution, the other strongly oj)posed to any division of the money. Mr. Daniel Sargent, treasurer, was authorized to receive this town's share, having given bonds for the faithful discharge of that trust. The fii-st instalment was received and the (|Ucstion of its disposition at once forced itself upon the town. Excitement ran high, and bitter feeling very generally prevailed.

April 3d. A town meeting was held, and it was decided to deposit the Surplus Revenue among the inhabitants according to population (paupers excepted), and Jonathan B. Sargent, Jonathan Morrill, jr., Benjamin Rowell, William Nichols and Daniel Weed were chosen a committee to carry the vote into effect. The treasurer was, however, opposed to this division, and was not inclined to pass the money over to this committee for such a purpose, and thus the matter rested till May 2 2d, when a second meeting was held and the whole matter reconsidered. It was decided to loan it to voters in sums not larger than $100, good security being taken, with interest, to be paid annually. The ascendant party were of opinion that it might be called for at some future time, and should be where it could be called in.

A strong rally of the divisionists followed June 5th when the whole doings of the last meeting were set aside and the division policy rcaflirnuMl. But here an unexj»ectcd <lifriculty was met. The treasurer had possession of the money, and, backed by the selectmen and a strong party, refused to give it up to agents appointed to receive it. Tlie agents im- mediately commenced a suit in behalf of the " Inhabitants of the Town Amesbury against Jacob (lOve and others, Selectmen of Amesbury," to recover the money. Thus stood matters at the close of 1837.

IJy recjuest of Peter S. ICaton, pahtor of the 2d church, a council was held May loth to consider his recjuest for a dismission. Mr. Eaton's request having l)een granted an invitation was extended by the church to Rc\. Lucius \V. C'lark, which was accepted, and he was installed Nov. ist.

The manufacture of shoes at Irlaverhill having l>ecome an extensive and lucrative business, employment was given to a very great number of workmen in the adjoining towns. 'I1ie work employed a large number of shoemakers in this town, and also binders, and seemed to be one of the chief branches of industry. The town was literally dotted with shoe shops, anil it had really come to be an age of shoemakers. For some years it had been a very profitable employment, but during the latter part of the year a financial crash came which swe|)t away this branch among others for a season. (General bankrui)tcy prevailed among the manufacturers.

The old contest in regard to the disposition of the surplus money was again renewed at the annual meeting, and, the antidivision party being in Ihe ascendency, it was decided to appropriate it to school purposes. The interest was to be paid annually to the prudential committees of die districts. This was a wise measure, but destinetl to come lo naught.

.April 2d. The ilivisionists called a meeting which w;is nearly e(|ually divided. The opi>osing parlies marshalled their forces on the choice of moderator and William Nichols, Ksq.. received one hundred and fifty-six voles, which was just the recjuired number for .i choice, thus giving the divisionists a slight advantage. 'I'his was rather a faint victory, but the meeting proceeded to undo the work of the preceding one, and soon things wore an entirely difTcrent aspect.

For the third time depositing with the inhabitants was ordered and all necessnry measures to carry the vote into effect were passed. A committee, consisting of Jonathan H. Sargent, Daniel Weed nufl IVnjnmin Rowell, was chosen to loan the mcmcy to the inhnbit.nits, taking notes payable when called for by the government.

The contest was given up by the opposing party and two dollars per head (paupers excepted) were loaned to the inhabitants, j^arents taking for those under them. Thus ended this bitter contest, although it was not soon forgotten.

July 12th. Joseph Stockman in attempting to swim across the Merrimac river, near William 10. VVorthen*s, was drowned. In his younger days he followed the sea and was an excellent swinuucr : but. at eighty years of age, he was not able to swim the Merrimae. He lived where Mr. Trustum Hol>son now resides and was a descendant of John and Sarah ( Bradbury ) Stockman, of Salisbury, who were married "lo*** 3 mo 167 1." For many years he lived in the little cottage under "y« Wolf Peet," since occupied by Jonathan (Joodwin, but torn down several years ago.

Daniel Weed, Ks(|., died October loth, having held the office of town clerk for the last twenty years. He was a good I)emnan and the records were neatly and faithfully kept. For many years he taught school winters and occasionally summers. As a disciplinarian he was very successful, and roguish l)oys, who were disposed to play, under his magic influence changed their minds and concludeil to "playjio more." He served as chairman of the selectmen in 1838 and was for many years treasurer and collector. He was a son of Capt. lOphraim Weed, who served as town clerk nearly thirty years previous to his term.

Capt. John Blaisdell, a Revohitionary soldier, died August 21st at the Ferry. He was in the service some time and for many years received a pension from the government. He died at the great age of eight-two years. The old French gim which he used against the "red coats on the nm," and which was very dear to him towards the last of his days, is now in the possession of the writer.

Capt. Valentine Hagley died January 19th. He will be remembered by the older portion of the peo|>le at the Ferry as the landlord of the tavern house at Bartlett's Corner, which he kept for many years in the good old style of those times. The tavern is now the private residence of Mr. Daniel Huntington. A large open yard was then left for public use, and it was a lively place during the May trainings. The sign i>ost with its swinging sign stood at the street end of the house, nearly in tiie roail, warning the weary traveller thai here he might find a home.

In his young days Mr. Tlagley followed the sea and was once cast away on the Desert of Arabia, where he narrowly escaped with his life. His terrible sufferings commenced July loth, 1792, when the vessel was found to be ashore on the sandy coast of Arabia. Hut few of the crew which started to cross the desert lived to perform the journey. The rough treatment from the wandering Arabs, the burning sands and want of water was more than ordinary constitutions could endure. Mr. liagley's strong constitution carried him through this hery trial and he arrived home to spend the remainder of his days in peace anil plenly. It lias been saiil ihal he du^* liis well near the street that all might ilrink auil not suffer as he had done in his wanderings across the desert.

The River district built a new school-house this year and the citizens subscribed a sufficient sum for a hall in the up)>er story for the accommodation of the village. At a later date this hall was purchased for a school-room.

JI1200. At the annual meeting a committee was chosen to consider the expcflicncy of selling the jioor-farm. It was located on Saunders' hill, and the soil was wet and heavy, which rendered it unfit for old people to work on, and hence the necessity of selling it.

The necessity of a Town House was beginning to be felt, and at the annual meeting a committee was chosen to consider the matter and rc|X)rt a suitable location. Hut at the April meeting the town voted to take no action in regard to the matter, and tlir subject was drop|)cd temporarily.

The White Hall road having been widened and straightened to the New Hampshire line by the commissioners, the selectmen were ordered to work and repair the same.

'I'he proprietors of the ICssex Merrimac bridge having petitioned for an extension of their charter, the town authorized the selectmen to em])loy cotmsel to defeat the petition.

This year is more s])erially known for the " hard cider campaign" and elciiion of NNilliam Henry Harrison to the Presidency. The vote in Amesbury was 493, being tlie largest ever cast. Harrison had 269, Van Buren 213, and the Abolition ticket 1 1 .

Spring and was liberally patronized by the public. For several years this school had languished, sometimes l>eing dis<:ontinuccl altogether for a season, and again l>eing revived under some transient teacher. Mr. Davis i)roved a |)opular teacher, ami continued his laliors during the summer seasons until 1850, sometimes having more than seventy scholars.

The new road from the pound winding along under the hill to Orlando Sargent's was built this year. The old one over the hill past Davis Mason's had been a source of great ex|)ense on account of l)eing blocked with snow every winter. Hy this new route the hill and snow were both avoided.

A sad accident occurred on the 13th of January which resulted in the death of Mr. luioch Wells, a highly resi)ectetl resident of this town. Mr. Wells was standing in front of a picker machine which he was tending in the large mill of the Siilisbury (\)mpany, when it .suddenly burst, killing him instantly. Mr. William I'oot was leaning against the side of the machine at the time, but escaped unhurt. Mr. Wells was 53 years of age, and by trade a hatter, but entered the service of the Salisbury Company soon after the completion of the large mill on High street. He was a descendant of the Rev. Thomas Wells, the faithful pastor for more than sixty years.

The report of the conuiiittee chosen in 1840 to consider the propriety of selling the poor-farm was received and accepted and the committee was authorized to execute a deed of sale. It was subsequently sold to John ICvans, ICsq., of Salisbury, who occupied it till his death. Having disposed of the fann, it became necessary to return to the old system of putting out the poor to the "best advantage" for the town.

Iiisiorv Of Amk-Shury

July 27th. Nathan Nutter, Thomas Osgood and Isaac Martin, all living at the Ferry, went out over the bar in a sail boat for a fare of fish, as they had often done before ; but, either by accident or n sudden s(|uall, they were ui)set and drowned. They were well-known residents, somewhat past the middle age and not so well calculated to manage a sail boat as in their younger days. The l><)at was not considered a safe one.

Aug. 31st. A counril wits called for the dismission of Rev. Lucius W. Clark from the pastorate of the Congregational church of West Amesbury. His connection with this church being dissolved, n tmanimous call was extended to Rev. Henry W. Smith, which was accepted, and he was ordained as pastor December 29lh.

This year it was decided to build a town house, and its location was fixed "between the houses of Josiah D. Challis and Thomas Hoyt." One thousand dollars were appropriated and the selectmen were appointed to oversee the work. The ancient meeting-house at West Amesbury had been taken down and no convenient place could be had there for the alternate meetings.

Jonathan Rin« and others, inhabitants of "little Salisbury," as it was called, petitioned the legislature to be annexed to .Amesbur}', and their petition was granted.

James Horton and others petitioned the CJeneral Court for leave to construct a railroad from the Kastem road to the Mills, and leave was granted.

Jonathan MUioH petitioned for leave to construct a railroad from the Mills to New Hampshire line. Hoth of these routes were approved by the town, but only the Salisbury branch built.

cold day with a stiff breeze from the northwest, and in about thirty minutes after the fire broke out not a timber remained standing. It caught from a defect in the chimney in the attic, and had made such progress before discovery that very Httle of its contents were saved. Among the valuable articles destroyed were thirty bushels of wheat, thirty bushels of rye, forty bushels of com and more than one hundred bushels of ix>tatoes and a large amount of furnilure auil clothing. It was a very ancient house, built, ])r()bably, previous to 1700.

Presidential election this year, and the vote stood Whig 207, Democrat 167. The town was divided into three parties which prevented the choice of a representative to General Court, the vote standing Joseph Kingsbury (W.) 149, Joseph Merrill, jr. (D.) 140, John G. Whittier (Ab.) 105. A. L. Ikiiley, Esq. had 95 votes for representative to Congress. Joseph Merrill, jr. was this year chosen town clerk, and retained the office till 1880.

Nov. 5th. Rev. Samuel H. Merrill was dismissed from the pastorate of the Mills Congregational church and society, and Rev. John H. Merdough was engaged as stated supply Dec. 15th, and was retained till 1849.

For some years the people at the Pond ami licar Hill h;ul been discussing the need of a road west of the \x)ni\ to connect the Bear Hill and Pond roads and open direct communication with Southampton. A [>etition was now presented to the Commissioners to locate such road. The town strongly opposed the measure, and by their committee, chosen for the purpose, defeated the petitioners.

At the June meeting the committee appointed to work the White Hall road were instructed to finish it to the acceptance of the commissioners.

wns started in Washington Hall some two years ago, and may he considered a rontinuation of the society which existed here many years ago, prohably as early as 1800. The small house orcnpicd by the l-'piscopal society was purchased and moved to Friend street, where it was refitted and occupied by this society. Kcv. (leorgc ('-. Strickland was the first pastor.

The peculiarity of this year was the mania for building railroads although none were built. The first project was a railroad from the Mills to IMaistow, N. H. which the town heartily endorsed by wax of approving resolutions, and the second was from the Mills by way of South Amesbury to the lioston and Maine. This also received the town*s approval, no preference l)eing given to either route. Both were endorsed and both came to naught.

Stei)hen Kenrlrick was this year appointed to take charge of the l''.ast |)arish burying ground which office he held till his death in 1.S75.

Nov. 5th. The new IOi)isco|)al church was this day consecrated. Its location is on the site of the small church of 1836, on Main street. A committee was appointed last year to commence the work. A stone was taken from the foundation of the ancient church at Pond Hills and placed in the foundation here to denote a continuance of the same church.

May 1 7th. .A meeting was held to consider the petition for ** widening and straightening the road from 'lappan Sargent's to the post-office " at South Amesbury. A committee was chosen to oppose the measure, but without sticcess, and the road was finally worked according to the order of the commissioners.

" Resolved, That the citizens of the town of Amesbury in their collective capacity do agree tliat they cannot under existing circumstances consent to allow any ]>ortion of their territorial limits to be assumed or surrendered for the creation of any new town within her original borders."

"Resolved, "lliat having met in town meeting pursuant to a notice from the State Legislature in reference to a petition to that lK)dy from some of our citizens asking for a new town to embrace a considerable portion of our territory and likewise to embrace the most densely inhabited part of it - we do solemnly protest against the measure as uncalled for on the part of the petitioners and in direct opi)osition to the feelings ami views of a very large proportion of our citizens."

" Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to go l>efore the committee of the Legislature at the time and place appointed and have such a hearing as may subserve the cause and import of the foregoing resolutions."

A code of by-laws was adopted regulating the |>olice affairs of the town, and, also, a stringent dog law re(|uiring every owner to pay $2.00 for a license each year.

The (|uestion of buying a poor- farm was again agitated, and at a meeting held April 7th a committee was chosen to look out a suitable pla(!e. Mut at the November meeting a large «:ommittee was chosen to report to the town the expense of keei)ing the poor ten years with and ten years without a farm. The move, whatever its intention might have been, delayed matters so that nothing was accomplished this year.