Merrimac Town (part 8 of 9)

Since the dismissal of Rev. Ilenjamin Sawyer in the l'«ist parish no minister had been settled, although occasional preaching had been obtained and lay brethren had held services during warm weather. Deacon Ilezckiah Colby was a constant and faithful exhorter, collecting a few of the older people who were strongly attached to this ancient house and unwilling to change their place of worship. The attendance, however, grew less each succeeding season and the house was evidently growing worse for wear, for a deserted building is always a target for mischievous boys and evil-minded j)ersons. To allow it to remain to be riddled by stones and torn j>iece-meal away was hardly desirable, and, accordingly, a meeting was called and a vote passed aulhorizini; its sale. Thus in one hundred and thirty-three years iVom its (Irsl ere< tion at the parsonage and eighty-eight years after its rebuilding at Sandy Hill, this venerable house was removed to be seen no more. A single sketch by Mr. Daniel Nayson is all that has saved its once familiar form from oblivion. The site is now owned by A. S. .'Vdams, l^s<|., and Robert W. Patten, Est],

A company was incorporated at West Amesbury for the manufacture of wheels, with a capital of ^40,000. Thomas T. Merrill was aj)pointed agent, f litherto wheels had been made by hand process, and its slow wt^rk gave employment to many wheelwrights. At this factory nicely adjusted machinery performed nearly all the work. At a later date the manufacture of carriage parts was added to the business. The factory was locate<l on C'obler's brook, near Humphrey Nichols* mill.

The town luving ilecidcd lo purchase a )MK>r-fann, <:h(>sc a committee consisting of William Nichols, Robert I'atten and lA>well Bagley to carry the measure into effect. After due examination of various localities they decided to purchase part of the homestead of Deacon Isaac Tuxhury, at the Lion's Mouth. The premises were properly fitted for an almshouse by the town, and the poor removed to their new home where they have been kindly cared for.

The new Free Ikiptist meeting-house on I'riend street being conn)leted was dedicateil September 26th. This house was built on the site occupied for many years by the Triends. The old house was sold and removed to Pond street, where it has since been occupied as a tenement house. The church has had fourteen pastors, viz. : Rev. Messrs. Hanscom, M(:Muq>hy, Merrill, Davis, I^Iurling, Rand, Haines, Baker, Blake, Locke, Houghtaling, Maddox, (ieorge and Waldron.

Ship-building to a limited extent was carried on at the Ferry by Osgood & McKay, and the town granted them part of the landing for their accommoilation.

.At the November meeting the sum of ^2000 was appropriated to pun:ha.se four fire engines, lo be located at the four villages, to protect them from fires. This was on condition that the villages furnish suitable buildings to keep them in. This action on the part of the lown was indu* eil by llie burning of the house of William Cha.se, at South .Aniesbury, the preceding October. The town was awakened to the fact that no protection had been given to the four villages against fire and also to the necessity of such protection.

Mr. J. H. havis having erected a commodious school room at the Mills on I'nend street, removed his school from the Academy to his new room, where he continued to labor with ahimdnnt success for many years.

The so<icty of I'riends having disposed of their old meetinghouse nnd lot, imrrhased a lot of {''.Hphalcl llnrnanl, on I'ViiMid street, ;unl built the present convenient house this year.

In itS^f) Thomas llailey built a mill for grinding and other pmposes sotuh of the road near the Merrimac Hat factory, as now located, and the road was changed over the hill, running close by the north side of the mill, where a heavy dam was built. A second dam was built a little north of the house of Ira Miles, whirh formed the large meadow into a reservoir containing a large body of water. ICarly this spring (April 2d) a sudden heavy rain swelled the pond to an unusual height, when the seconti dam gave way, precipitating the water against the first one near the river, and mill and dam were washed into the Merrimac. The road was restored to its ancient location, where it has since remained.

The (piestion of calling a convention to revise the constitution was acted upon at the November meeting and decided in the negative by a \*ote of two hundred and one yeas and two hundred and ninety-eight nays.

The road located at West Amesbury by the selectmen, from Kumphrey Nichols' past the wheel factory to the new highway, and, also, one at South Amesbury, from the house of !^phraim doodwin to that of Charles L. Rowell, were accepted by the town and became public highways. Also, one other road from near the house of William H. Haskell on Main street to the last mentioned street.

were swept by the rapid current. 'ITie old " Buttonwood tree " standing snug by the tide, on a little Kink near 'l*hoina.s Piige*s, was swept away, floating down the river with its roots upwards. This had been a famous tree, and mentioned as a bound nearly back to the year 1700. It had lieen somewhat decayed for many years, the top branches gradually falling off, and the river had washed nearer and nearer its roots till it yielded to the tide. It was, probably, (juite a tree when the town was first settled, and gave name to the district.

The Perry built a new school-house this year and located it on the homestead of the late Benjamin Lurvey, Ks(|. 'I1ie old brick house built in 1796 was taken down and the lot sold.

A stringent code of by-hws in relation to dogs was |>assed and approved by the court, which re(]uired all dogs to lie mu/.- xled and collared under a penalty of not less dian five dollars nor more than ten, and to continue in force till rescinded by the town.

The most prominent anil saddest event of the year was the strike of the operatives in the Salisbury mills. Mr. Derby, the agent, al>olished the ancient privilege of leaving the mill at luncheon lime and thereupon a very general diss;Uisfaclion arose, which siwn ended in a general stoppage of business. 'Ilie privilege was trifling anil worth no contention, many of the workmen seldom availing themselves of it, and yet it was determineil to contend for the right.

The town took sides with the o|)eratives and, at a meeting held for the purpose, strong resolutions were passed and the sum of $2000 appropriated to assist those out of employment. The company refused to yielil and the contest was finally given up, but not till great damage had resulted to the village. And to-day the population of the village is not what it would have been but for the strike.

History Of Amesrurv

Mr. .Alfred Uailey built a c.arj)enlcr's shop on the brook near the old location of "Ctoodwin's mill," which was subsequently sold to the Merrimac flat Company and used Jis a dye house after being enlarged. Mr. Bailey during the fall placed another building on the stream, nearer the river for mechanical puq>oses.

The state having ilecided to call a convention to revise the (.Constitution, it became necessary to choose a delegate for .Vmesbury, and at the annual March meeting Jonathan Nayson, I'^sq. was chosen. The work of revision was completed in time to be submitted to the towns at the November election. Eight pro|K)sitions were laid before the town, No. 1 receiving 255 yeas and 255 nays; No. 2, 257 yeas and 252 nays; No. 3, 255 yeas and 254 nays; No. 4, 258 yeas and 251 nays; No. 5, 264 yeas and 241 nays; No. 6, 278 yeas and 230 nays; No. 7, 258 yeas and 251 nays; No. 8, 257 yeas and 251 nays. The Constitution was rejected by the state, and the great expense it occasioned was a perfect waste.

May 17th. Rev. Rufus King was dismissed from the pa.storate of the Congregational church and society at the Mills, and Rev. N. I^selle was engaged as supply November 6th.

A new and important branch of business was this year introduced at the Mills by Jacob R. Huntington, Rst}., who commenced the manufacture of carriages on a small scale. Carriages of the usual exj)ensive kind had already been built here, but this new departure of Mr. Huntington's was calculated to supply a new demand. A class of less expensive work was needed to enable all to ride. 'I'he great expense of carriages has hitherto confined this luxury to the few, but now a change <:ou»es which is soon destineil to fill our streets with carriages and extend the much coveted privilege of riding, to young and old. Mr. Huntington began business in the attic: of Mr. J. N. Clark's bark mill, where the large Colchester mill now stands in Salisbury. Here, although somewhat troubled by the dust from the mill below, he managed to spread his varnish (he was a painter) and give the fmishing touch to a few carriages which found a ready sale in the vicinity. Hut soon better accommodations were re(|uired for his increasing business and he built a nirriiige factory on Lincoln court, where the business was continued till the establishment was burnt in April, 1869. in May of the same year he commenced building his present large factory at Salisbury Mills (now occupied by Mr. James Hume), which, when completed, enabled him to do a very large business. From this small beginning the business has increased till more than twenty manufactories have been established, turning out more than twelve thousand carriages per annum. In the workshoi^s here may be foun<l all descriptions of work, cosily and highly fmished or otherwise, as the purchaser may desire. Much modem machinery is now in use, and the k)ng experience of those now engageil in this business has enabled them to put u))on the market a su|)erior class of work capable of doing gootl service.

May 20lh. Two young men wore tirowncti in KimUdl's l)ond. They had obtained a lx)at and were sailing across the |>ond when a flaw of wind upset them and although good swimmers they were unable to swim iushore ihrough the surf. These young men - Mosely an<l Porter - were familiar with the sea, having sailed nearly all over the world, and inissed through perilous limes, but were prcsci>ed lo perish in a small pond.

John S. Morse and others petitioned the commissioners to lay out a road from New Hampshire line to Merrimac river. This was intended to avoid the sharp hill at the west end of Hear hill by a new route over the north cant of the hill, entering the old road near the house of Zacheus P. Thurlow and continuing with little change to Johnson's comer, where a new way was to be opened to South Amesbury, connecting with the River road near the stone bridge.

Rev. Albert Paine, of the Congregational church at West Amesbury, was formally dismissed April nth, and Rev. I/ean- <ler Thompson installed as pastor September 20th.

The town, by leave of the legislature, sold the ancient landing at the Mills to the Salisbury Manufacturing Company for the sum of $2045. This again brought up the question which caused the bitter strife of 1837, viz.: the division of the money among the inhabitants. This subject came up at the annual mcoling, and the divisionists had their own way and ordered it to be divided "e(iually among the inhabitints (paupers excepted.)" Hut this vote was destined to be short lived, as on the 15th inst. a second meeting was held and the former vote reconsidered. 'Hie money was put into the treasury to help j)ay the town debt.

This disposition of the money was not acquiesced in by a portion of the citizens, and on the 29th inst. a meeting was held, when the divisionists met with a signal defeat, the vote standing sixty-six in favor of division and two hundred and thirty-six against.

May 23d. A town meeting was held to act upon six articles of amendment to the constitution of Massachusetts. The vote stood twculy-fivo in favor and five against.

The first article embraced the plurality system in elections, which has since become very popular and beneficial. The articles were all rejected, however, by the commonwealth.

vote at the fall election was very large. Henry J. Oanlner, who \v;is the Know Nothing candidate for governor, receiveil four hnndred and twenty-eight votes and all others one hundred an<l fifty- three.

A town meeting was held to make a new api)ortionment of the school money, and a plan was adopted, but changed at a subsequent meeting. It was found very difficult to make a just apportionment.

.Articles of aniendment to the constitution were submitted to the March meeting and approved by a large majority. These were the 20th, 21st, and 2 2d articles. The 20th is the one requiring the reading and writing qualifications for voting, and was designed to distpialify illiterate persons. The 21st and 22(1 were in regard to a new organiz;Uion of the Senate and House of Representatives.

In 1856 a law was passed for the preservation of fish, one retpiirement of which was the building of a sufficient sluiceway over the I^wrence dam for fish to pass. Amesbury was interested in this matter on account of the shail which were annually caught on the shores of the Merrimac, and which, without the means of reaching their spawning grounds, would, prol)ably, leave the river, 'i'he Essex company at I^wrence was loth to build a fish- way and petitioned for its repeal. The annual meeting passed a lengthy remonstrance against the re|)eal. The fishing in the Merrimai hail, from lime immemorial, been carried on and was really of much im|)ortance to the town. It had been restricted to three days per week, but these had afforded a good supi)ly of sliad and sometimes salmon. .\i

Pleasant Valley, Huttonwood and other places on the shores of the river, fishing grounds were owned, which were valuable during some three months of the year. But the erection of the I.awrence dam was destined to damage, if not wholly destroy this vnlunMc privilege, unless a good and sufficient fishway was built.

From the days when old John Hailey had the exclusive control of fishing in the Powow till the present time, the spring fishing ill the Mcrrimar has afforded a gocxi supply of shad to the adjacent country.

Jan. 2oth. Hezokiah Challis, a well-known resident of the Ferry, died at this date. He was bom at the Buttonwood April 13th, i77«S, and the house now owned and occupied by Miss 10. C. 'iVussell, was built by him and his brother Timothy. He was a skillfiil mechanic, and, when manufacturing first commenced at the Mills, he was employed in constnicting looms and other machinery. He will long be remembered for his sterling integrity and faithful devotion to duty. After his death there were but two male descendants of Philip Watson Challis in town bearing the family name.

The "Salisbury Mills Co." was organized this year, the whole ])roperty of the fonner company being purchased by the new company for J2 25,000. Work was again resumed and continued I prosperous throiigh the war, the stock ranking very high in the market.

On the 27th of February, Robert Patten, Esq., died, ageil eighty-one years and four mcmth.s. He was Iwm at South Amesbury October 28th, 1776, when the great stniggle of Inde-

|>endence was progressing. About 1807, he bought the original homestead of John lloyl, sen., of one of his desc:emLuus and removed to the Mills, where he spent the remainder of his life. He was frequently called into town business, holding the* office of selectman nine years and was three times elected representative to the General Court. In 1841 he was elected county commissioner for three years and he served the town in various capacities during his long life. His principal business was farming and brick making, which he pursued for more tlian half a century. For many years he furnished all supplies in that line, there being no other brick-yard in this section of the town. No doubt this is the oldest yard in town, and was first used by John Hoyt, sen., and, in fact, the remains of an ancient yard was to be seen when Mr. Patten removed there, so ancient thai the ''oldest inhabitant" knew nothing about it.

The well-known physician, Israel Balch, died at the Ferry this year, aged sixty-nine years, ten months. He was born in 'ro|)sfield, Mass., in 1 788. When a lad of thirteen he went to Salem to live with Capt. Benjamin Hodges. He there showed a decided taste for study and was encouraged to prosecute his studies. He recited in I^tin to Rev. Dr. Bently during his three years* slay. Returning home at the end of that time, he <:ontinucd his studies, although receiving but little help from his parents. While preparing for college, he recited to Rev. Mr. Huntington, but unfortunately neglected navigation, possibly from his inability to buy *' Howdich on Navigation," and was obliged to supply the deficiency by his mechanical genius. He set himself about manufacturing various small articles, which he sold for enough to purchase the desired lH)ok. Having completed his preparatory studies, he entered Dartmouth college in 1807 and graduated in i8ti. He studied medicine three years with Dr. French, teaching school a portion of the time in various places. About 1820 he commenced the practice of medicine in town and soon became known as a faithful physician and eminent surgeon.

successful and gained a wide reputation. Many of his surgical instruments were of his own invention, and he received four patents on that accomu. He occasionally lectured on electricity, chemistry and galvanism, as well as other subjects.

At one period he devoted his spare moments to clock making. One of them was of singular construction, noting the year, months, weeks, days and hours, and, also, the phases of the moon and changes of the tides. The venerable "Master Walsh" (who taught private pu])ils for many years) purchasc<l one of his noted clocks.

His practice extenrled over a period of nearly forty years. His house, now occupied by his daughter, was, probably, built by (lidcon IaiwcII at an early date.

A piece of new road was laid out near Patten's creek, which rendered the old bridge and road useless, and it was subse- (juently discontinued.

At the November meeting the high school (piestion again came before the town, and was referred to the selectmen to establish such school if deemed proper.

The Congregational church at West Amesbury was this year sold and removed, to be fitted for a public hall, and a new house built, larger and more costly. It is a very fine, tasty building.

The town established a high school this year and ordered it to be kept ten months, five months at each end of the town. The first term was kept at the Academy and the west end alternated between the River and Corner.

There were several cases of small-|M>x at West Anu*sl>ury this s|)ring, three of whi<:h proved fatal, viz. : Mr. lOzra I J. Clark and Elizabeth M. Clark, his daughter, and Mrs. Rhoda Nichols, wife of Hon. William Nichols. At the Ferr>', Nirs. Dolly Hoyt, wife of Thomas Hoyt, formerly of Pond Hills, ilied of the same disorder.

The iMipulation of the town, by the census Liken this year, is three thousand eight hundred and seventy-seven, an increase of seven hundred and thirty-four in ten years. The numlier of houses is six hundred and twenty-seven, and of families seven hundred and forty-eight.

Open rebellion against the authority of the United States in the South was now causing great excitement and alarm, especially as a call for seventy-five thousand volunteers had been made by the l^esident to restore peace and enforce the laws of the country.

A town meeting was called April 27th to take measures to raise volunteers to meet the call, and the |kU riot ism and sen.se of the meeting was very fully expressed by the following preamble and resolutions offered by William C. Hinney, K.s<|., and unanimously adopted by the meeting : -

" Whereas the constitutional government of our l)eloved country is in danger of being overthrown by the assaults of anned traitors who, having solemnly sworn fealty and allegiance to that glorious Constitution, formed by the wisdom of our fathers, and having entered into a solemn compact with all the jHJOple of the United States *in order to form a more |>erfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tran(|uility, provide for the <:ommon defense, promote the general welfare and secure the blessings of lil)erty to themselves and their posterity,* without any legal or justifiable cause, have attempted to annul tliat solemn compact and transfer their allegiance to a Confederacy of S^)uthern traitors. And, whereas, the President of the United States has, by proclamation, commanded those engaged in this unholy insurrection to submit themselves to the constitutional authorities within a limited time, now almost expired, and has, also, called upon the governors of those states which still remain Iruc to the* Constitution and the Union, to furnish aid and assistance to put down this wicked and unnatural rebellion.

And, whereas, the governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which now, as ever heretofore, has been foremost to rally in defense of constitutional liberty and to shed the precious blood of her noble sons upon the field of battle in support thereof, has called upon all those of her patriotic citizens disjwsed to offer their ser\'ices as part of the volunteer militia of Massachusetts to respond to any re(|uisition of the Resident in this national crisis.

Therefore be it resolved by the citizens of the town of Amesbury in legal town meeting assembled, that we pledge our united aid and assistance to our beloved Commonwealth and to his l^xecellency the Covernor to the utmost extent of our ability, both men and money, to enable him to respond promptly and efficiently to the present or any fiUure requisition of the Covernment of the United States to put down rel>ellion against its authority and to enforce the laws of the land.

Resolved, that we hereby vote to raise or hire, as the selectmen think most expedient, a sum not ext.eeding five thousand dollars, to be expended under the direction of the selectmen or a committee specially chosen therefor, for the purpose of ec|uipping, uniforming or assisting such of the inhabitants of this town as shall enlist and be accepted and enrolled as part of the volimteer militia of this Commonwealth, and for the support and maintenance of their families during the time they are called into active ser\'ice by command of the governor thereof."

the (lOvernment emoluments, to every single man and $20 to every married man that joins the Militia, and that the Selectmen be authorized to advance one month's pay as soon as a company is organized and commences to drill."

The greatest enthusiasm prevailed and the proceedings were harmonious, evincing a most conuucndahic spirit of patriotism. The ])eople were fully awakened from their dream of peace by the bombardment and capture of Fort Sumpter on the 12th of .April and the call of the President on the 14th for seventy-five thousand volunteers. The Sixth Massachusetts regiment wils attacked while passing through Baltimore on the 19th and three soldiers killed and eight wounded.

Under the excitement caused by such startling events, volunteers were forth-coming, and already a company had been formed, which marched to the meeting in fine style under the command of Capt. Joseph VV. Sargent. After pretty thorough drill the company was mustered into service July 5lh and attached to the lourteenlh regiment.

Dr. Benjamin Atkinson, of West Ameslniry, died Octol)er 2 2tl. He was a graduate of Bowdoin college, Bnmswick, Maine, where he commenced the study of medicine, which he afterwards completed at Newburyport with his brother Dr. John .Atkinson. He commenced the practice of medicine in town about 1830, and by his gentlemanly bearing and good success soon gained the confidence of the public. For many years his fiekl of labor embraced the entire surrounding country west of the parish line for several miles. His lal)ors were such as to "wear him out" before old age had firmly set its seal u|)on him.

"Resolved that the town pay each volunteer who may enlist in the service of the United States to serve for the term of three years if not sooner discharged, the sum of one hundred dollars in addition to the bounty offered by (lovernment to be

The selectmen were instructed to procure the men as soon as possi])le and were authorized to hire the needed money. The bounty, however, proved insufficient, and a meeting was held August 14th, when an addition of ^200 was made to the bounty of the diree years* men.

In the mean time a call for nine months* men had been made, and it became necessary to provide some bounty to procure the men to fill this call. The bounty was fixed at J5150 and the selectmen were authorized to hire the money to pay ihis bounty. Under this offer a large number joined the FortyiMghth regiment, conunanded by C'ol. I*".. K. Stone of Newburyport, and served near New Orleans.

Dec. 4U1. Two boys were drowned while skating on Patten's pond. One was a son of Mr. William Foot, aged nine years, and the other a son of Mrs. Schofield, aged ten years.

On the !??th of September it was voted to extend the bounty to as many more in addition to the forty-two men in camp as might enlist, to be reckoned on the next call. Tliere was no lack of dctcrmifiation to supply all the men needed for the suppression of thi^ monster rebellion.

'Hie commissioners having issued an order for the re-building of I'owow River bridge, a town meeting was held October 13th and the selectmen ordered to act with Salisbury in carrying on the work.

July 30th. Rev. 'I'. I). P. Stone was dismissed from the pastoiate of the ( *on,i;regational church and society at the Mills, and November ?d Rev. Oeorge K. I'Veeman was engaged.

The brisk demand for woolen goods induced the Salisbury mills to extend their works by removing the old Nail Factory and Rolling Mill and erecting the large mill now known as No. 8. The mill was dedicated by a soldiers* levee, which called out a very large assemblage, nearly filling its spacious rooms. This was, ])robably, the largest entertainment ever held in town. Jonathan Morrill, Fs(i., died June 29th, aged seventy-two years. lie was a descendant of Abraham Morrill, who built the first corn mill on the I'owow, and, like most of the family, was a blacksmith by trade, being fomicrly connected with the Iron Works at the Mills. In the war of 1812 he sailed as masterat-arms in the privateer Decatur, which his father (Jonathan Morrill, 1^s(j.,) built at the Mills landing. This fme little vessel was fitted out at Newburyport with fourteen guns, and put in charge of C'apt. William Nichols, and did good scn'ice against the enemy. lie was in several sharp engagements and assisled in taking many valuable prizes.

He was, also, interested in the factory built in 18 13 by *' Knsign Morrill and his two sons" on Mill street. Al)Out 1825 he became a resident of Amesbury, locating on the I^iley farm, and residing there till the house was burnt in 1843. He was chosen representative in 1833 and again in 1835, ^"^^ serve<1 on the board of selectmen several years. For many years he was engaged in fishing at the Shoals and at the eastward. He was a firm, unwavering Democrat, believing and practicing the doctrine he professed, but no politician in the modern sense of that word.

April 6th. A town meeting was held to take into consideration the propriety of issuing town bonds to secure the large town debt. The meeting decided to i.ssue lx)nds to die amount of ^20,000 at five per cent, interest, payable semi-annually, and redeemable at any time after five years, and payable in twenty.

Many of the prominent citizens at the Mills felt the necessity of greater facilities for extinguishin;^ fires, and accordingly petitioned the town to set off school district No. 2 ( Mills ) into a fire district. The petition was ni)l granted, and the citizens proceeded acconling to law to or^.iui/.e .such district and to take such precautionary measures as were deemed necessary.

The alinshoise at the Lion's Mouth, not being large enough to conveniently aiiomuioilate tlu: town paupers, was enbrgad by the addition of a large wing.

Dec:. 14th. A meeting was called to devise some measures for raising the town's ])roportion of three hundred thousand men called for by the Government. It was voted to advance money to recruits, anrl a committee was chosen to assist the selectmen in procuring them.

On the 15th of June the Mills school district held a meeting and appropriated S3500 to ])urchase a lot and build a new school-house, and the present high school building was soon after built.

S. S. Tuckwell. Patten Sargent, Willis P. Sargent and James Whitlior obtained leave from ihe legislature to build a wharf at South Amesbury, to extend into the river a distance "not exceeding one hundred and fifteen feet from high water mark,** and to collect wharfage Vxm\ dockage. 'Phis was a move in the right direction.

Thus far during the war, manufacturing business has been remarkably good, the [)rofits being very large. Under this condition of things a company was formed for the manufacture of woolen goods and oiganized by the choice of Elbridge G. Colby, Robert Fowler, O. S. Patten, N. M. Horton and Joseph N. Clark as directors. E. G. Colby was chosen president and L. F. nurrill agent. This company commenced immediately to build the mill now known as " The Hollow Mill.*' It was completed during the winter and went into operation soon after, rumii?ig eight sets of woolen machinery, which were driven by an engine of one himtlred hoi-se power.

The death of Lowell Bagley, F>sq., occurred February 26th. He lived at the Ferry and was widely known for his ability as a justice and conveyancer, which, with settling estates, constituted his principal business. He held the office of selectman five years and served as rc|)resentative to the General Court two years.

Aniesbury Hat Company for the manufacture of wool hats. The company purchased the town kmding ami, also, the estate on the corner next Powow River bridge, and erected a large factory on the wharf for this purpose. Previous to going into operation, the company was consolidated with the Merrimac company, becoming part and parcel of the same.

M the annual meeting it was decided to purchase two hearses for the use of the town. Additional by-laws for the protection of sidewalks, etc., were, also, passed.

April 1 8th. A meeting was held to authorize the selectmen to hire money to pay recruits, who might be called for previous to March 1862, at the rate of $125 each, and they were s(i authorized. It had become very difficult to fill the repeated (uills of the (lOvernment and a draft was ordered, being the last resort to sustain the Union amiy. It was reganled with fear and alarm and carried dismay into many families. 'Ilie following is the list of persons drafled from Amesbury : - Charles Lehman, Alvah H. Currier,

May 25th. A town meeting was held to take measures to fill the town's ipiota o?i the next call. A conmiittec, consisting of Joseph W. Sargent and John O. Currier, was chosen to assist the select?nen in enhsting recruits.

A tract of land purchased for a cemetery at West Amesbury being found unfit for that purpose, it was voted to sell it and purchase land of Jonathan B. Sargent adjoining the old cemetery.

Abner L. Bailey was authorized by the legislature to continue his wharf at the I'Vrry and extend Ihe siune easterly on tlic Merrimac and l^owow rivers to low water mark, and to lay vessels at its head and receive wharfage.

An effort was made this year to unite the towns of Amesbury and Salisbury. An act was obtained from the legislature for that purpose, authorizing the union under the name of Merrimac. But, as the act recjuired the consent of both towns at a meeting held for that purpose, the project failed. lk)th towns decided against the union. This was the second attempt to alter the limits of these towns.

A charter was obtained for the construction of a horse railroad from Newburyport to Amesbury with a capital of $120,000, to be divided into shares of Jfioo each, and the road was subsequendy built and has proved a profitable investment.

The Horton Hat Company was organized this year by Mr. Alfred Bailey and others, and commenced the manufacture of hats in Mr. lkiiley*s building at the Ferry, which was fitted for that purpose.

A national bank was this year organized at \Vest .Amesbury with a capital of Jf50,ooo, which has since been increased to $200,000. The directors were Patten Sargent, Thomas T. Merrill, John S. Toycn, Benjamin V. Sargent, William (lunnison. President, Patten Sargent; cashier, William H. Haskell.

Aug. 2d. A town meeting was held for the purpose of purchasing hose for the engines, and the selectmen were instructed to purchase one thousimd feet.

The Great Rebellion closed in the early part of the year and the soldiers, who had so nobly fought, "came marching home" crowned with victory and honor. But in the hour of triumph there was sadness, for some came not again and many hearts now realized their great loss. Amesbury furnished about four hundred men. As near as we can ascertain, her officers were one colonel, one major, four captains, seven lieutenants and one sergeant-major. y\t the draft in 1863, sixteen hired substitutes and eleven paid 2^300 each as comnmtation money. From the record it appears that twenty died of sickness, seven were killed, thirteen wounded and six were confined in Andersonville prison. Two of these died from the effects of dieir long imprisonment and starvation after reaching home.

The four grammar schools were raised to the grade of high schools and the committee were instructed to hire teachers cjualified for teaching the re(|uired branches. This was the first permanent establishment of the high school system in town, which has since proved of great value.

July 6th. A meeting was held for the purpose of audiorizing the selectmen to purchase fifteen hundred feet of hose for the four engines, and to make an appropriation for the sufferers by the great Portland fire. The selectmen were authorized to purchase the needed hose, and $1,000 were appropriated for the poor who suffered in that terrible conflagration, which destroyed nearly half of the city of Portland, Maine.

(IrcLMiuood street, as laid out by the selectmen, was acce|)ted by the town. Several nice houses had already been built here and the !';'*ality bids fair to become one of the best |X)rtions of the town.

Rev. E. A. Rand was dismissed from the pastorate of the C^ongregational church and society at the Mills May 3d, and Rev. W. F. liacon was ordained September 26th.

Cynis IHaisdell, son of James Ulaisdcll, jr., at the Ferry, was found dead on the morning of June 15th on the hill north of Pleasant Valley. He went out gimning the day before, and, getting over the wall, his gun was accidently discharged, killing him instantly, it was thought.

At a meeting held June 30th, Aubin street was accepted as a public highway. Also, a i)art of the landing at the Ferry was sold to the Merriuiac Mat C'om|>any. The selectmen were, also, ordered to sell the town's wood land in the West parish and to purchase a pasture for the town's use. A large tract of pasture and wood land was accordingly purchased of Page Ring, lying near the house of Moses Flanders in Southampton, N. H. It was a wise exchange.

The town being unable to purchase land to enlarge the Kast Knd cemetery, directed the selectmen to petition the commissioners to lay out the lot owned by Patrick Spillane as a cemetery, which was accordingly done. At the same time the road near S:unuel llolscr's was wiilened and straightened and, also, at the Pond Hills, near John lllackslock's at (lill's lorner.

This year will long be remembered for the ait of the U'gislature orilcring the briilges to l>e maile free, like all public highways. Hut to ilo this a large expense must be incurred, to l)e borne by the adjoining towns and the county. Amesbury objected to being burdened with this tax, as no one of these bridges toucheil her territory.

counsel in defence of the views of the town. At an adjourned meeting the town fimily refused to raise money to pay her ix)rtion of the cost of the bridges, according to court order.

The River district decided to build a new school-house this year and the sum of ^5,000 was raised for that purpose. A lot was purchased adjoining the old school premises, and the present co?nmodious Gramnriar School building was erected.

Hon. William Nichols died at West Amesbury November 30th. Mr. Nichols was by trade a plater and pursued that calling for many years, until becoming the owner of considerable valuable land, when he nearly abandoned the business. He was for many years a justice of the peace, writing deeds, wills and other legal papers, and frequently surveying land and roads. In 1831 he was elected state senator, and afterwards served on the board of selectmen ten years. He was frequently elected moderator of town meetings and served on many important committees. Mis homestead was purcha.sed of David Moulton and was known as the " Moulton house." Many years ago he purchased the "Merrill" orchard, then the largest in town. He was a man of large executive ability and highly esteemed.

The West Amesbury Branch R. R. was incorporated May 8th, with a capital of {114,000. TTiis road was intended to connect with the Boston and Maine railroad at some point on that road.

The legislature, by act of March 24th, summarily abolished the school districts in the state, and it became necessary to call a town meeting to take measures for appraising all school property in the districts, the amount of which the town must pay for. This being done, the town a.ssumed control and it came under the supervision of the school committee.

School accommodations at West Amesbury were insufficient for the large number of scholars there, and a town meeting was held May 24th to take some action toward enlarging the old house or building a new one. It was decided to enlarge the old house by a largo addition in front, and the sum of ;^8,ooo was appropriated to carry the vote into effect. The house was completed and accepted by the town, and is a very line building.

'I'he project of a railroad from the Mills to West Amesbury was pretty freely discussed at this time and a petition presented to the legislature by William C. Hinney and others, asking for a charter, which was readily granted. The act authorized the town to subscribe for stock to the amount of two per cent. on the town valuation.

Oct. 13th. A meeting was held to see if the town would thus subscribe, but the measure was defeated by a vote of two hundred and fifty-nine yeas to two hundred and seventy nays.

Josiah B. Gale, William C. Binney and others petitioned the legislature to be incorporated under the title of "Amesbury and Salisbury Academy Incorporation," with power to hold real estate to the amount of j( 10,000. The ancient academy and beautiful lot on which it was built needed some legal protection to prevent its being appropriated to private uses. Already the premises had been plowed and planted under assumed title and some of the heirs of the original owners thought it time to move in the matter. Umler the act of incorporation now obtained, the proprietors organized and have continued to hold annual meetings.

'i'he present post-ofhce building was built this year by the Sixlisbury Mills Company and, also, the block of stores occupied by J. F. Johnson and others at the Mills.

Mr. Jacob R. Huntington's carriage factory in Lincoln court was burned April 23d. Mr. Huntington commenced building his large factory in Siillsbury the following May.

The number of scholars at the Ferry having largely increased, it was found necessary to provide additional accommodations and the town appropriated fS.ooo to be expended under tlie direction of the school committee and selectmen in building a new house. A lot was purchnse<l near the late James Blaisdell's, and the present convenient and substantial house built during the year, 'llie expense was about {7,000. including furniture.

Ferrv Sciiooi.-Iioush

The catlle disease made its appearance in the Commonwealth, spreading alarm among the farmers on account of its fatality. .At the NovemlK-r meeting precautionary measures were taken to prevent its introduction into town.

Jan. 1 2th. '11)6 new Baptist church at West Amesbury was this day dedicated with appropriate services. It is located on ("hurch street and is a very neat and tasty structure.

May nth. The old house of Capt. John Currier, which was, probably, built by his father, David Currier, about 1720 at the I'ond Hills, was this day torn down to give place to a modem structure. It was an oaken frame.

This year the old store occupied by J. W. IJriggs, lOsq., ami formerly by Rilxion and Stacy, at the Mills, was removed and the present brick block erected by the Salisbury Mills Company on the site.

The death of Abner L. Bailey, P^sq., at the Ferry, on the 15th of September, was a loss not only to his family and friends, but to the public. Mr. Bailey was bom at the Ferry very near the spot where he died, and was a descendant of John Bailey, I St, whose location will be found on the map of the town as laid out at East Salisbury in 1639. By trade he was a mason and for a while followed that occupation, but, about 1853, he commenced the experiment of manufacturing hats, which eventually proved a success. Subsequently the Merrimac Hat Company was organized and large additions made to the factory at the Point, which enabled the company to enter largely into the business. Before his death Mr. Bailey had built up an extensive business, which kept three mills busy in filling the company's orders, and aflbrded employment to a large number of workmcMi.

At one period Mr. Bailey became somewhat noted for his abolition principles and was in 1844 a candidate for Congress from this district. He was energetic and persevering, and objects which would have discouraged most men were but small hindrances to him. He was not forgetful of the (x^or, but always ready to aid them. As a financier he was eminently successful, the stock of the company ranking very high in the market. He was strongly attached to the Union Iwangelical church at the Point and gave it a liberal support.

His-I-Orv Of Amesbury

the adjoining buildings, were burned to the ground, together with wheels and carriage parts in all stages of manufacture, and a large lot of seasoned lumber. A large amount of valuable machinery was, also, destroyed. The total damage was estimated at $28,000. The fire was accidental.

The subject of organizing a fir^ district at West Amesbury was laid before the town and rejected, which gave the proix>sed district the right to organize, which was accordingly done.

June 2d. 'I'he stable of Mr. C. W. Little was entirely consumed by fire set by boys in the hay loft. The contents were mostly saved. Several members of the Agile Engine Company were badly hurt by falling timbers.

July 2oth. Sometime during the night there was a slight shock of an earthquake, which is thus described by one who heard it : " It came as a heavy rumbling noise, which shook the windows and made things rattle for a short time. It awoke me out of a soimd sleep and was quite heavy."

Rev. Henjamin Sawyer, pastor of the Rocky Hill church at Salisbury, died Mnrch 26th. He was born in Hoothbay, Maine, September 22d, 1782, and pursued his studies there preparatory to entering Dartmouth college, from which he graduated in 1808. He studied theology with Rev. .M)ijah Wines, of Newport, N. H., and was ordained at Cape Elizabeth, where he continued in the ministry till 1814, when he came to Amesbury as a candidate at the First church and continued to supply till

1816, when he was installed pastor. His labors were continued at Sandy Hill till 1835, when he resigned, llie new Congregational church at the Mills drew largely on this ancient society, and, in connection with that at the Point, was the principal means of destroying it. He removed to layman, Maine, where he preached five months, when he returned and was engaged at Rocky Hill, where he labored faithfully during the last thirty years of his life. In his fiftieth anniversary sermon. May 5 th, 1859, he stated that all the members who officiated at his settlement were dead, except one, and that all the members of the First church in Amesbury were, also, dead. During his labors in Amesbury and Salisbury he attended eleven hundred funerals and officiated at fourteen himdred marriages.

Tic rc[)rcscnlcd Siilisbury in the legislature in 1844 and 1845 and served on the school board there twenty-one years and several years in Amesbury. Although in his eighty-ninth year at his death, his hair was hardly s[)ecked with gray and his memory and reason he retained to the bst. His eye sight was remarkably good, so that he used no glasses for several of his last years, either in the desk or elsewhere. He was a faithful laborer in his Master's vineyard.

Capt. Thomas llailey ilied at the Ferry May 30th, aged eightytwo years. He was a native of Deering, N. H., and settled in town about 18 10. In early life he taught school in town and at a later period, was engaged largely in building vessels at the Ferry. He served on the board of selectmen nine years and was elected representative in 1828.

By a recent act, towns were authorized to choose road commissioners to take the place of highway surveyors and to exercise all the powers of selectmen and surveyors. The town adopted the act and chose Nathan Huse, David A. Moulton and Charles A. Nayson as commissioners. It was an experiment and an unsuccessful one, and short lived, lasting but one year.

At the presidential election in November there were four hundred and seventy- five Republican and one hundred and ninety-five Democratic votes cast.

The Salisbury Mills Company commenced building a dam late in th(* season last year and completed the work this year. It is a massive dam, substantially built, and will not be likely to wash away soon. It is situated a little below the Joppa dam, crossing the Powow river at the base of Powow hill, and is of sufficient height to flow back to the state line, making a pond of some three hundred acres, known as lake " Gardner." The erection of this dam affords the company an opportunity to build one or more mills, which if built would greatly advance the price of real estate in that section. A long period of pros- [)er()us business had enabled the company to lay by a large surplus, some JI6o,ooo of which was expended in the erection of this dam and expense of flowage.

]^ke Gardner in the summer season is a beautiful sheet of water and a place of very general resort. It is well stocked with fish of various kinds.

The Merrimac Opera hall at the Mills was built this year by Messrs. Kelley and Woods at an expense of {19,242. It is very generally used for lectures and exhibitions, and is of sufficient capacity to hold a very large assembly. Town meetings are, also, held in it and it supplies a want not before provided for.

The interior of the Congregational church at the Mills was greatly improved this year by new walls, frescoing and reseating. 'Hie exterior was, also, repaired and the whole expense was al>out ^7,000.

The history of this house is not without interest at the present time. It was built by the Unitarians, some of whom had been holding meetings in the Academy and, probably, some time in the year 1836, as the subscription paper bears date "March agth 1836," Rev. David Damon was engaged lo preach and was retained about two yeais, when the society, finding itself hardly able to support preaching, sold out lo a new Congregational society, which had been holding meetings in Franklin hall. Some of those previously worshipping here remained with the new society, and among the number was James Hotton, Ks(|., who became a very valuable member. The house was originally much smaller than at iMreseni. 't^e spire was added in 1840, the bell in 1843, and In 1849 it was greatly enlarged, since which time the exterior has undergone but Utile change.

May nth. The Amesbury and Salisbury Christian Society organized a chnrrh under the charge of Rev. («eorge T. Ridlon, and I). L. Ikirtlctt and Stephen Dickens were chosen deacons. The society holds meetings in Merrimac Opera hall.

The road commissioners were discharged and the highway tiistricts re-established, one year's trial having satisfied the town that the measure was expensive and but poorly calculated to promote its interests.

May 15th. On petition of the school committee a meeting was held to provide additional school accommodations at the Mills. The selectmen and school conunittce were authorized to purchase a lot and build a house suitable to the wants of the schools, and the sum of {6,000 was appropriated for that purpose. An eligible lot was accordingly purchased on Friend street and the present convenient house built at a cost of about {^5,000, including furniture.

The town l)cing called upon to assist in building the "Amesbury Rail Road," voted to do so in a sum not exceeding S5 0,000, but the road has not been built.

Nov. 3d. This evening at thirty minutes past nine o'clock, the Town house was discovered on fire and beyond the power of those who first saw it to extinguish. Several engines were soon on the ground, but the advanced state of the flames and the scant supply of water rendered the efforts of the firemen of little account. In a few minutes nothing was lefl to mark the spot but the ashes and black remains of timber.

The West Amesbury Axle Company having suspended operation, the machinery and stock on hand was sold October 25th. This branch was started many years ago by Jonathan B. Sargent, l^s(].. and subseciuently a company was formed and prosecuted a large and profitable business.

November 4th was the annual election, and the destruction of the Town house the night before left the town without a place to hold the meeting, but the people were notified to assemble on the niins, which they did, and adjourned to the house of Joseph Merrill, the clerk, and there completed the election in due form. The fire was the work of an incendiary, without doubt, but no clue has been found to lead to detection.

llie Representative district was composed of Amesbury, Salisbury and West Newbury at this time, with the right to choose two representatives. At the annual election but one was chosen, and it became necessary to hold a second meeting on the 24th of November for the choice of a second representative. The meeting was again held at the town clerk's house.

Dr. Thomas Sparhawk died at Newbury|x>rt May 17th. A short time before his death he removed from town against the wishes of his numerous friends, who were unwilling to lose his valuable services. After his removal, his generous nature would not permit him to turn away from the numerous calls here, and he continued his practice over town till stricken with paralysis while riding through the Pond Hills. When suffering humanity called for his services he could never refuse, and not only his professional services, but his purse and whatever he might have was freely given to the needy. He was emphatically the poor man's doctor and ever at their service. Uut he was popular with the rich as well as the poor, his long and successfull practice having endeared him to all. A monument has been erected over his grave in Amesbury by his friends, and very properly inscribed "To the memory of our beloved Physician."

An appropriation of I$5(k) was this year made by the town for the erection of a Soldiers' monument. The monument was procured and placed in a central position in the cemetery with appropriate dedicatory services.

l*'or reference, the entire appropricitions for the year are given, it lieing the last one which the town was destined to enjoy, as originally incorporated : -

On the nth of October Rev. IatwIs (Iregory was dismissed from the pastorate of the Congregational c:hurc;h and society at West .Aniesbury, where he was called to labor in 1868.

The most noted event of the year was the division of the town by the legislature. The net received the approval of the governor April nth. Kor two hundred and ten years the town had maintained its corporate existence with no material change of territory, although several attempts had been made to change its boundaries. The present dividing line was drawn from the month of " l'ressey*s Creek to the most northerly point of land on the southerly side of Kimball's Pond and thence north-westerly to a point on the line dividing Amesbury and Newton, N. H., 2050 ft. west from the monument on the State line near Arthtir Robertshaws.*' This act reduced the territory of the old town about one- half, or to three miles scpiare. Strong opposition to this measure was felt by the old town, and measures taken to defeat the scheme, but without success, as the event shows.

The annual election had been postponed from March 6th to April 1 7th, when the following appropriations were made, viz. : Schools, 56,200; highways, 5 1,800; poor and town charges, 52,500; town debt, 5i,ooo; interest on debt, 53,500; town officers, 5550 ; incidental expenses, 58oo ; state and county taxes, 54,550; fire companies, 51,500, making a toUil of 522,400 for town exi>enditures.

general stagnation of the ordinary branches of business, l^he farmers' market, the grocers' business and most trades were greatly depressed, and the outlook was of a gloomy shade.

The general depression of business was felt severely in town this year. The ordinary business was at a stand and help could be obtained at less than living prices, and many were unable to find employment at any price. The carriage business, how> ever, was a fortunate exception to the general stagnation, continuing active through the whole period of depression.

On the 17th of May Mr. E. M. Huntington, a native of Amesbury, but for many years a resident of Philadelphia, died at his home at the Pond Hills. For many years he had charge of the Friends' Institute, at Philadelphia, and was a successful teacher. He will be remembered as a teacher in this town and vicinity, previous to his long services there. He was sixty years of age.

During the latter pail of 1877, the Merrimac Hat Company commenced laying the foundation of a new mill on the river road at the small stream where (xoodwin's mill once stood.

'ITie old mill at Salisbury Point, where A. \,. Ikiiley, Ksi\., commenced business many years ago, had become unfit for the present wants of the company and it was deciiled to buikl on tins stream, which is supplied in part by large springs on tlie north side of Ikiiley's |K)n(l. The building was completed in the early iKirt of ihc year and dedicated Mart:h 21st by holding a fair for the benefu of the Old Ladies' Home. It was largely attended and the net proceeds were alx>ut ]$ 1,000. The mill is built of brick ami is a most substantial building. Iwerything about it is well arrangeil, anil its neat, tidy appearance adds greatly to the beauty of the locality. The value of property in this vicinity has greatly increased since its erection and already several houses have been built in that section.

In May the Salisbury mills were sold to John (Gardner and others for $160,000, biu the change of hands was of no benefit to the operatives, for they were still allowed to stand iille. These were now designated ** Kssex Mills."

Ang. 9th. A fearful hail stonn passed over the Poiul Hills and northern part of Merriniac, doing great damage to the crops. It swept over Mr. Mason's hill, nearly ruining all the corn and other vegetables. Apples were so bniised as to be inifit for market, and dents thai were made on buildings and fences may yet l)e seen.

Two of the graduates of the Amesbury high school, viz. : Herbert W. and VVillard P. lioyd, entered Oberlin college in September, passing the prescribed examination without conditions. This fact speaks well for the reputation of the school. The al>ove were sons of Rev. F. S. Boyd and aged seventeen and sixteen years respec:tively.

Dr. Henry S. Dearborn died August 25th, aged sixty-six years. He was a botanical physician, and by his skill and attention to his profession ac(|uircd an extensive practice, not only here but in adjoining towns. He was born at Wakefield, N. II.. and came from Maine to Amesbury about thirty years ago, where he practiced medicine some time i)revious to his removal here.

On the 20th of March two small boys, Harry and \\'illic Habb, sons of Thomas R. Habb, were drowned in Bailey's pond within a few feet of the road at the Merrimac Hat Factory. They were playing on the rotten ice and fell through.

Jonathan Nayson, l^scj., died April 23d. Mr. Nayson was born in Weare, N. H., but early in life removed with his father to this town and served as an apprentice in a clrng store. This business he afterwards pursued for nearly half a century. He was a jefTersonian Democrat, and in that notnble campaign of (layton P. (Xsgood against Caleb (lushing he did good service fc»r his ])arty. lie and his brother in-law, John Caldwell, started a paper c:alled the "Amesbury Chronicle." which was spec- ially devoted to the election of Andrew Jackson to the presidency and Mr. Osgood to Congress. He soon retired from the editorial department of that paper and took the stump for his party. In 1836 he was elected to the legislat\ire, being but twenty-seven years of age and the youngest member of the House. In 1852 he was again elected, and by his devotion to the interests of the laboring classes gained the hearty approval of his fellow citizens, who subsequently elected him to the constitutional convention, of which he became a prominent member. He was twice called to the chair and was, also, placed on important committees.

Under Pierce's administration he was appointed weigher and gauger in the Boston custom house and served in that capacity till the close of Buchanan's term of office. He served a short time as assessor of internal revenue in this district and, also, on the board of selectmen several years. To those too jKMir to employ a lawyer, he freijuently volunteered his services and was well posted in legal affairs. He, also, held the office of postmaster under Van Buren's administration.

On the 3d of May Dr. Thomas McAllister died at the age of thirty-two years. He was born in lx)ndonderry, N. H., where he attended the common schools until entering the Derry academy, where he ciualified himself for his medical studies at Bowdoin college, Maine, from which he graduated in 1872. Soon after that date he commenced to practice in this town and his strict devotion to his professional duties gained for him a large share of public patronage.

On the 1 6th of last March the F^ssex mills, including the entire property, were sold for {300,000 to the Hamilton Company. This event was hailed with joy by all, as being the forerunner of more prosperous times. Nor was the public disappointed, for a large number of hands were at once set lo work making thorough repairs and getting ready as fast as possible to commence operations. Under the careful and skillful management of M. D. F. Steere, Ksq., who for more than

Carriage manufacturers generally are enlarging their business and making preparations to turn out more work the coming season than ever before. Amesbury will, no doubt, soon become what it was ten years ago : a busy, thriving town with something for all to do.

General Matters Amesbury And Salisbury Newspaper

The first paper was the "Amesbury Chronicle," published every Thursday morning by Nayson and Caldwell. The first numl)or was printed January 28th, 1832, at ^2.00 per year. It was a six-column page paper and advocated the election of Gayton P. Osgood to represent District No. 3 in Congress. June 6lh, 1833, Mr. Nayson dissolved his connection with the paper and Mr. John Caldwell continued its publication under the title of the "Evening Chronicle," and was neutral in |K)litics. In 1834 the j)apcr changed again to the "Morning Courier," J. Caldwell, editor and proprietor, and was cut down to a five-column page paper. November 23d, 1837, the name was (hanged to "News and (.'ouricr," C. K. Patten, editor, and John Caldwell and T. J. VVhittem, publishers, being published simultaneously at Portsmouth, N. H., and Amesbury, so continuing until January 4th, 1838. In 1839 ^^' Caldwell again resumed full control of the paper and changed its name to the "Evening Transcript," continuing its publication up to near 1840, when he sold out to Robert Rich. Mr. Rich published a few numbers and sold his interest to Mr. Joseph M. Pettengill, who took control in Febniary, 1840. September, 25th, 1840, the paper changed to "Village 'IVanscript."

Mr. Pettengill retained the management of the paper up lo 1845, when he formed a partnership with J. IC. Hood and the paper was changed to the "Essex Transcript" and made the organ of the old Liberty party in Essex county. Mr. Hood withdrew from the editorial chair after a few months and G. J. L. Colby was announced as the editor, but after a few months he left. In 1848 Mr. Pettengill sold the paper to Daniel F. Morrill, now of Vineland, N. J., who continued the Transcript for one year and changed its name to "Villager." He published six numbers and, failing to secure due support, stop|)ed its publication. 51

'llie present publisher, then a printer in the office, was urged by the citizens to continue its publication, but declined at first, then finally consented to try the experiment. Commencing May 24th, 1849, ^^ ^^ continued as editor and publisher up to the present time, a period of thirty-two years, 'ilie pai)er, it may be said, has had a continuous existence, under its various titles, of forty- nine years.

In the intervening years several attempts to start competing journals have been made, but all have failed. The first of these was the ''Essex Mirror," by Page and (jilman in 1839. It had a brief existence of four weeks. About this time the .same parties started a litde daily sheet, which found a competitor in "The Sheep's Foot," and "Reservoir of Science." Mr. ('urrier, of The Villager^ also published a ilaily |)ai>cr for four weeks, which failed of support.

Amesbury had no post-office till aliout 1820, the nearest office being at Salisbury Point. This was in the time of mail stages, and the one running from Newburyport to Portsmouth, N. H., came through the Point and over Rocky hill to the Mills, and all mail matter belonging there was taken from the Salisbury office by this stage and left at Clark Maxfield's store, where the Powow National Ikuik building now sUinds. Nfr. Setb Clark was for many years postmaster at the l*oinl, which, at that time, was a place of extensive business. About 1820 an office was established at the Mills and Capt. JonaUian Morrill wiis appointed postmaster. A writer in the Villa\^er some years ago said: "We remember well the advent of the first mail into our village. The mail-rarricr, a mere youlh, mounted (m horseback, with saddle bags slulTcd full of letters and pai)ers, drove up the yard of Capt. Morrill's, (now enclosed in the grounds of Mr. .Steere's residence,) dismounted and |x>nred the same on the floor of the old-fashioned kitchen. I'hey were there sorted and then displayed in the window, the superscriptions facing the yard, into which people step|)ed to see if they had letters or papers.

of the establishment were safely kept." Capt. Morrill's son, Nathaniel, succeeded him and established a more respectable office in the basement of the next building; and he, also, farther improved the service by causing the mail to be brought from the Point in a two-wheel chaise, which he kept for that pur))ose. The salary of the office at this time, including bringing die nmil from the Point, was about ^50 per annum.

.'\bout the year 1836 Jacob Carter was ap|)ointed postmaster, and he removed the office to the northerly end of Wadleigh's block, where it remained during the last of Jackson's administration. President Van Buren appointed Philip Osgood as Mr. Carter's successor, and he removed the office to a small building on the comer of Main and Friend streets, which ha<l formerly been used as a counting room by the Rolling Mill and Nail j'actory C(mipany. Near the close (»f Van Huron's administration, Mr. Osgood resigned and Jonathan Naysonwas appointed postmaster, he removing the office to a room built on to the factory at the bridge, opjwsite its present location. When Harrison was president, John Walsh was apiK)inte<l ixjstmaster ami the office was removed to a building .standing where No. 7 mill now stan<ls. After the accession of John Tyler to the presidency, Daniel Blaisdell was appointed postmaster, and he removed the office to the small building on the comer of Friend street again.

David Pagley was appointed postmaster by President Pierce in 1853 and retained the office until Lincoln's election, when r^avid Balchelder was appointed and held the office through Johnson's administration. He removed the office to the store of David French, opposite the hotel. In 1869 ^- H. B. Currier was a])pointed postmaster and the office was soon after removed to its present location. On the 15 th day of March 1870, the mails were brought to town by the cars for the first time. J. T. Clarkson was appointed postmaster in 1873 *"<' re-appointed in 1877 by President Hayes.

His'Iurv Ok Of The Ijarriage Business In

Mr. Williain K. Biddle & Com|)any, of Ameshury, comnienceil the manitfacture of carriage (laris at their planing mill in SalLshury, and in 1880 the., whole amount of their liusinesa was * Including Ae liiiiidied and dlty ileighh.

#125,000. During the year, five thousand sets of carriage parts wore completed, in addition to a large amount of other work, giving employment to sixty workmen. Their business was established in 1869.

'I'he Merrimnc Hat Com])any at the Ferry are doing a large business and employ a large number of workmen. The capital stock is J 1 00,000. The amount of business done in 1880 was ;^4oo,ooo. The nmnber of hats made reached fifty-one thousand dozen. One hundred and eighty males and fifty females are employed. Oi)erations were commenced in the new mill in 1878. R. H. Hawley, agent.

Amksiujrv And Samshurv Kxi'Rkss

In 1840 Mr. David Batchelder commenced this business by nnining a stage to Newburyport to coimect with the ICastern railroad, and continued the line till the complolion of the S.\lisbury Hranch railroad in 1848, when the express business was transferred to the cars and the stage line sold to Stei)hen H. Hagley. Mr. Hatchcldcr continued in the business till 1859, when Joseph T. Merrill succeeded him. Mr. James H. Wells started an (*xpress in 1858 and c^onlinues on the route. There arc now two express lines, viz. : ** Wells' ** and " IVevaux's.'*

The whole amount of deposits is J 1,26 1,7 76.61. The number of depositors is three thousand, seven hundred and fifty. The interest on hand amounts to $31,057.63. The guarantee fimd is $28, 7 76.65. Mr. Alfred C. Webster, treasurer.

mills, laid the foundation for the library in 1856. This is not a free library, those taking books l)eing reciuired to pay one dollar per year for the privilege.

It now numbers four thousand, nine hundred and sixty-one volumes, embrac:ing a wide range of subjects. The officers for 1880 are J. W. Briggs, president; John Hume, vice president; F. W. Merrill, secretary; William Allen, treasurer; C. M. Brown, Aaron Sawyer, J. H. Swett, G. W. Cate, J. A. Perkins, H. L. Kingsbury, executive committee ; Miss Fannie M. Binney, librarian. The rooms are on Friend street. In connection with the library is the collection of the Natural History Society.

Amksbukv And Salisuukv Aladkmv

This institution was organized in 1804 and incorporated in 1869. Its fund amounts to $565.98. Its officers are president, Patten Sargent; clerk and treasurer, James H. Davis; trustees, O. S. Bailey, Joseph Merrill, J. N. Clark, 0. S. Oearliorn and David M. Tcwksbnry.

The total amount of risks reaches $365,648. The amount of premium notes outstanding is $22,838. Officers: Joseph N. CMark, president; C. L. Allen, secretary and treasurer.

'Iliis l^ost was established in 1869 and now numbers about fifty members. Officers: L. Frank Currier, commander ; Albert Morrill, senior commander; Moses M. Denndtt, jimior commander; John O. Currier, officer of ihe day; Michael Monihan, officer of the guard ; Henry P. Wells, quarter- master ; Charles Cook, adjutant; R. W. Wells, t|uarter-master-sergeaiU ; Knoch Morrill, sergcanl-major ; John \. Douglas, surgeon ; J. W. Cioodrich and K. (iowen, chaplains; Ceorge Thurston, sentinel. Its funds amount to $259.

The Post was named for lulward P. Wallace, a resilient of Amesbury, who, although not physically able to endure the hardships of a soldier's life, devoted his whole influence to the cause. When the war broke out he immediately collected his money, which he had earned by hard labor, and freely gave it to tlie Government to help sustain the Union. His small gift of 5 1 00 was accepted by the treasurer at Washington, and, very uncxi)ectedly, the first lx)nd issued by the Government was forwarded to him. Mr. Wallace had the honor of holding lx)nd No. I. Through the war he was aiding and assisting by his whole influence the cause which was dear to him.

Reform Club

officers for 1880: Jason K. Cowden, president; Daniel Worlhen and Charles Cook, vice-presidents; Mrs. (Jeorge Collins, secretary ; John (). Currier, auditor ; Stephen Woodman, treasurer. The membership numbers one hundred, and Veteran hall is their place of meeting.

This Home was organized December 31st, 1874. In 1878 the Pickering estate at the Ferry was purclixscd for the purpose of erecting suitable building for a home. In 1S78 a fair was held in the new Merrimac Hat l«*act()ry for the benefit of the Home, from which :^ioii.28 were realized. In 1879 a second lair was held for the benefit of the Home, in Mr. Riddle's new block, from which J 1206.32 were realized. It may be proper to state that of the latter sum, f\vG hundred dollars were donated by the following persons, viz. : Messrs. Seth Clark, Nathaniel (!urrier, J. G. Whittier, Stephen Woodman and Mrs. George W. Morrill, Jioo. each. Its present funds amount to ^2159, and its officers are Stephen Woodman, president ; (ieorge F. Itagley, treasurer ; O. S. Haley, clerk.

This Lodge was chartered December nth, 1822, and now has a membership of one hundred and twenty-five. Henry \'\ Carey is the W. M., and their meetings are held in Union block.

This Chapter was organized in September 1870, and now has a membership of fifiy-fivc. Their place of meeting is in Union block, and Morton Ii. Merrill is High Priest.

Powow River L0Ix3E Of Odd Fellows

This Ix>dge was organized August 23d, 1845. ^^ ^^ ^>i^' hundred and ninety- two members, and Odd Fellows hall, Friend street, is their place of meeting, (leorge W. Currier is N. (;., and their funds amount to $9000.

This Ix)dge was organized June 28lh, 1877. I'here is a membership of sixty-four and the meetings are held in Turner's hall. Joseph O. George is Dictator.

This I^odge was organized October 23d, 1874, and has a membership of fifty-nine. Masonic hall is their place of meeting. Their funds amount to $393. 28. Thomas M. Hush Is C. i\

This lx)dge was organized April 13th, 1866, arid there is a memlxirship of forty-six, with funds amounting to ;$250. G. W. Titus is W. C T., 'Mm\ the meetings are held at Turner's hall.

This w;is organized April 21st, 1868. \V. K. liiddle is chief engineer, Otis C. Hardy and George J. Hunt, assistants. 'l*he amount of assessments for 1880 was $1500.

Merrimac Engine Company, No. I.

This company was organized in May, 1851. (ieorge F. Huntington is captain, and there are twenty-nine members. The mcotings are licid in the engine house at tlic Ferry.

Society

This Society was organized in 1856 and is now in a flourishing condition, having a fund of more than one thousand dollars and a valuable library. A petition has been presented to the legislature for an act of incorporation. President, J. Henry Hill ; treasurer, Aaron Sawyer.

Veteran Artillery

A few years ago a company was organized, including several who had been members of the old artillery company, but the uniform adopted did not correspond with that of the latter company. The company usually holds an annual parade.

The Amesbury and Salisbury Artillery Company was formed in 1794 and William Lurvey was the first captain. In 1821 John Colby, jr., was captain, serving till 1825, when the company was under the command of Isaac Whittier, first lieutenant. In 1826, Zebedee Morrill was chosen captain and, probably, ser\'ed till 1831, when James C. Currier was chosen, and held command till 1834, when Hiram Collins was chosen and was the last captain in command.

There are five religious societies in town, viz. : ('ongregational, Catholic, Free Baptist, l*4)iscopal an<l Friends. There are, also, many Methodists in town, who attend the Methodist chunli on Pond street, Salisbury. At the Ferry, many attend the Union Kvangelical church at Salisbury Point. Many Universnlists, also, attend the Salisbury church. Present pastors : Congregational, Rev. P. S. Hoyd ; Catholic, Rev. John Brady :

Benjamin C. Atkinson, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three /ears in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment : was promoted to first-licutcnant in Company C, May 28th, 1862, and to captain, October 8th, 1864. Bounty, $60.

Webster Allen, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment. He was son of Jonathan Allen and born in Amesbury. Bounty, $60,

Richard S. Ikiiley, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment. Bounty, $60. Re-enlisted November 30ih, 1863, for three years in Company E, First Ma.ssachusctts regiment.

llonry V, IJadgcr, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company 1% Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment; died of fever February 2d, 1862, at Fort Albany.

John Hrown, enlisted November 26th, 1861, for three years in (Company H, Eleventh regiment; badly wounded July 2d, 1863, at (Gettysburg, by a bullet through the top of the lung; discharged l)eceml)er 3d, 1863, for disability.

Thomas S. Bradley, enlisted December 2d, 1861, for three years in Company A, Nineteenth Massachusetts regiment ; wounded before Richmond and discharged March 12th, 1863.

John F. 'Bailey, enlisted October 27th, 1861, for three years in (?om[)any B, Flecond Massachusetts regiment ; discharged for disability December 5th, 1862.

Robert J. llnrnett, enlisted for three years in Company H, Fortieth Massachusetts regiment ; killed in the batUe of Fair Oaks, June ist, 1862.

Robert M. Hoody, enlisted April 20th, 1861, for three years in Company B, Fortieth Massachusetts regiment; promoted to corporal, Ai)ril, 1862, to sergeant, October, 1862, to secondlieutenant, June, 1863, and to first-lieutenant, October, 1863.

James W. Hartlett, enlisted August 5th, 1862, for three years in Company A. Thirty-Fifth Massachusetts regiment; promoted to corporal ; was in the battles of South Mountain, Antietara anil l«>e<lericksburg : died Jime 6th, 1864, of wound received in battle.

John Bahan, enlisted August 14th, 1862, for three years in Company I, Fortieth Massachusetts regiment ; promoted to lieutenant. Bounty, $300.

Michael Bahan, enlisted August 2 2d, 1862, for nine months in Company C, Forty-eighth Massachusetts regiment; was in l)attle of Port Hudson. Bounty, {150.

George E. Blaisdell, enlisted August 6th, 1862, for three years in Company A, Thirty-Fifth Massachusetts regiment ; was in battles of South Mountain, Antictam, siege of Vicksburg, Knoxville and the last fight at Petersburg.

John H. Brown, enlisted August 24th, 1862, for nine months in Company C, Forty-Eighth Massachusetts regiment ; died August 19th, 1863, at Centralia, Illinois, from sun stroke, while on his way home. Bounty, {150.

George Bocock, enlisted October nth, 1862, for nine months in Company C, Forty- F2ighth Massachusetts regiment ; lK)unty, )$i5o; re-enlisted August nth, 1864, in Company E, First Massachusetts Battalion of Heavy Artillery. Bounty, ^125.

Richard F. Briggs, enlisted July nth, 1863, for three years in Company B, Second Massachusetts regiment of Heavy Artillery. Benjamin I^oth, enlisted December 8th, 1863, ^^^ three years in the Second Massachusetts regiment of Heavy Artillery. (]corge F. Bailey, enlisted September 4th, 1862, for nine months in Company C, Forty-eighth Massachusetts regiment. Bounty, Si 50.

Timothy J. Breene, enlisted August 14th, 1863, ^^r three years in the Ninth Company, Third Massachusetts regiment; was finally in Company E.

I^wis V. Caldwell, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Compnny E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; promoteil to second- lieutenant May 28th, 1862, and to first-lieutenant July 26th, 1863, and transferred to Company F; died of wounds June 1 7lh, 1864. Bounty, S30.

Charles W. Currier, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; promoted to corporal. Bounty, $30.

William Crane, enlisted June 34th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; promoted to corporal. Bounty, {30.

Augustus Cunningham, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment. Bounty, $60, Re-enlisted November 30th, 1863, for three years in Company E, First Massachusetts regiment.

Edward Cartier, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment. lk}unty, {60. Re-enlisted August 31st, 1864, in First Massachusetts regiment. lk)unty, $125.

Charles Christially, enlisted in Company C, Twentieth Massachusetts regiment ; wounded at Balls Bluff and discharged after being seven months a prisoner at Richmond, Va., and Salisbury, N. C.

George W. Christian, enlisted October 4th, 1861, for three years in Company D, Thirtieth Massachusetts regiment ; discharged for disability.

Daniel M. (Jurtis, enlisted April, 1862, in ('ompany H, Fortieth New York regiment ; promoted to orderly-sergeant ; was in battles of Fair Oaks, before Richmond and Antietam ; also> taken prisoner.

Rcxlney H. Currier, enlisted August 5th, 1862, for three years in Company A, Thirty- Fifth Massachusetts regiment; discharged for disability.

Alanson St. Clair Currier, enlisted August 14th, 1862, for three years in Company I, V'ortieth Massachusetts regiment ; was in Iwenly battles, including those of Coal llnrlH)r and l)cfore Richmond ; taken prisoner at the latter one. Hounly, ^300.

John O. C!urrier enlisted August i8th, 1862, for nine months in (Company C, I'^orty-lMghth Massachusetts regiment ; resigned and discharged March roth, 1863. Bounty, ^150.

John O. Connor enlisted December 31st, 1863, for three years in Company D, Fourth Massachusetts regiment; promoted to orderly sergent; in Andersonville prison two months; also in Florence.

William L. Dorsett, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment; promoted to sergeant; died at Annapolis, Md., December 8th, 1864, from the effects of starvation in a Confederate prison. Bounty, J530.

Daniel ('. Davis, enlisted in 1862 for three years in Coijnpany ('. I'ourleenth Massachusetts regiment. Hounty, ^100. Re-enlisted in Massachusetts Heavy Artillery.

James McDonald, enlisted August 23d, 1862, for nine months in Company C\ Forty- lOighth Massachusetts regiment; was in all the battles at Port Hudson. I'ounty. ;^i5o.

Fdward Dorsey, corporal, enlisted for three years in Companx K, P'ourteeuth Massachusetts regiment ; wounded in the battle of Sharpsburg and died at Washington September i8th, 1862. hounty, 30.

Albert N. lulwards, enlisted August 14th, 1862, for three years in Company I, Fortieth Massachusetts regiment: ihed at Fort Schuyler October 13th. 1863. Bounty, ^300.

Mdwin t'ollanslMjc, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; promoted to corporal and then to sergeant. Bounty, S30.

William I*. Foster, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company K, Fourteenth ^ Massachusetts regiment ; promoted to corporal. Bounty, $^0,

Charles L. Flanders, enlisted June 24th, 1 iScj 1 , for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; taken prisoner at Richmond and confined at Andersonville ; died. Bounty. $30.

Jones Frankle, captain, enlisted in 1861 in the 17th Massachusetts regiment; promoted to major August ist, 1861, and lo colonel of Second regiment December 28lh, 1863.

John W. (tray, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in ( ompany !-!, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment. Bounty, ^30. Re-enlisted November 2 2d, 1863.

Ceorge F. (rowen, enlisted August 14th, 1862. for three years in Company I, Fortieth Massachusetts regiment; di.scharged .March 2gth, 1863, on account of wound. Bounty, ^300.

George S. Gorden, enlisted in 1862 for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; died of dysentery August, 1863. Bounty j$ioo.

William M. Hamilton, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company K, i**ourteenth Ma.ssachusetts regiment; promoted to second-lieutenant of the Second Massachusetts regiment of Heavy Artillery, August 14th, 1863. Bounty ^30.

John W. Hunt, enlisted .August 14th, 1862, for three years in Com[)any 1, fortieth Massachusetts regiment ; promoted to corporal ; was in siege of Fort Wagner. Bounty, $300.

Albion Hayford, enlisted August 20th, 1862, for nine months in (Company C, Forty- Eighth Massachusetts regiment ; was in battle of Plain Store. Bounty, $150.

Henry Hnines, enlisted Atignst i8lh, 1864, for one year in Company Sixteenth. Konrth Massachusetts regiment of Heavy Artillery. P.omily, ^125.

Charles H. Kennett, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company K, Innirteenth Massnchusetts regiment. Bounty. 530. Re-enlisted November 6th, 1863. in Company (-', First Massiichusetts regiment of Heavy .Artillery.

Enoch M. Kendrick, enlisted November nth, 1 861, for threeyears in Company I), Seventeenth Massachusetts regiment ; dis charged for disability September 4th, 1862.

(leorge F. Little, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Com|>any E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; promoted to sergeant. Bounty, $^0.

Simiuel McKaughlin, enlisted August, 1862, for three years in Company I), Seventeenth Mas.sachusetts regiment ; promoted to corporal. Bounty, $,\oo.

Josiah 1). Little, enlisleil September 8th, 1862, for nine months in Comi)any C, Forty-Eighth Massachusetts regiment ; wounded in the hand at the battle of Plain Store. Bounty, ;$i5o.

Henry McQuestion, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company IC, Fourteenth Massa( husetts regiment : discharged in 1863 l(»r disability. Hoimty. S30.

James Murphy, enlisted Augu.si 14, 1802, for three years in Company I), Seventeenth Mctssachusetts regiment: promoted tt) < orporal : wounded and discharged. Bounty, $u>o.

John McNanie, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E. Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment. Bounty, ^60. Ke-enlisted in November, 1863.

Stephen (1. Morse, enlisted September, 1862, for nine months in C'ompany C', I'^orty-l eighth Massachusetts regiment ; dietl at Ikiton Rouge, July 8th, 1863. Bounty, )$i50.

John S. Manley, enlisted in August, 1864, for one year in Company Twenty-Sixth, Fourth Massachusetts regiment of Fleavy Artillery. Bounty, <i25.

(.'liarlcs Vj, Osgood, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in (Company K, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment; i)romoleil to second-lieutenant ; wounded severely and discharged Fehni- . ary 14th, 1865. Bounty, J30.

Allen Osgood; enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company K, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; taken prisoner June 22d, 1864, and confined in Andersonville prison ton months. Bounty, S30.

Moses M. Ordway, enlisted August 14th, 1862, for three years in (Company I, Fortieth Massachusetts regiment ; promoted to corporal, sergeant and sergeant-major. Bounty, J^oo.

IClbridge .\. Ring, corporal, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company 10, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment : promoted to sergeant, l^ounty, J30.

Williiun 11. kand, enlisted December 2d, 1861, for dircc years in Company B, Second Massachusetts regiment of Cavuhy ; discharged for disability December 5th, 1862.

Richard Robinson, enlisted August 26th, 1864, for one year in Company Sixteenth, Third Massachusetts regiment ; appointed nuisician. Bounty, {$125.

Joseph W. Sargent, captain, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Com|>any K, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; this company was transferred to the First regiment of Heavy Artillery January ist, 1862, by order of the War Department; resigned December 24th, 1863, by reason of ill health.

Alexander Smart, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment; promoted to second-lieutenant November i8th, 1862. Bounty, $^0.

Warren Spear, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in ( 'ompany 1% Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment ; discharged for disability. Bounty, $30.

William Smeatli. musician, enlisted June 15th, 1861, for three years in the Second Massachusetts regiment ; discharged October 6lh, 1862. Bounty, S30.

William (I. Thompson, orderly-sergeant, enlisted June 24th, 1861, for three years in Company E, Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment; June 18th, 1862, promoted to second-lieutenant; I'cbruary 9th, 1862, promoted to fu'st-lieutenant ; January ist, 1864, promoted to captain; died of wounds May 20th, 1864. Bounty, $60.

John (1. Tuxbiiry, enlisted Se])lenil)er, 1862, for nine months in Company F, Forty- Kighth Massachusetts regiment; promoted to lieutenant December 29th, 1862. Bounty, $150.

ICzckiel F. Tuxbury, corporal, enlisted October 3d, 1862, for nine months in Com])any F, T'orty- Kighth Massachusetts regiment : was in the battle of Plain Store. Hounty, J 150.

John (!. Tucker, musician, enlisted October 31st, 1861, for throe years in Company F, !''ifth Massachusetts Battery ; wounded in the leg and discharged.

(Jeorge Taylor, nuisician. enlisted August 17th, 1864, for three years in Company F, First Massachusetts Battalion of Heavy Artillery. Itounty, ^125.

William H. H. Prescott, enlisted July 29th, 1863, for three years in Company B, Second Massachusetts Heavy Artillery: died at Newburn, N. C, January 26th, 1865.

William Wilson, enlisted June, 1861, for three years in Comliany B, Fortieth Massachusetts regiment ; discharged I^eceml>er loth, 1862, for disability.

Warren Whit<:oml), enlisted August 14th, 1862, for three years in Company I, Fortieth Massachusetts regiment ; die<l November 7lh, 1862, of tyj^hoid fever. Founty, 1^300.

Thomas Welch, enlisted August 8th, 1862, for nine months in (Company IC, Forty- I'lighth Ma.ssachusetts regiment. Ik)unty, ;Si50. Re-enlisted November, 1863, in Company M, Second Massachusetts regiment of Heavy Artillery.

Charles I''. York, enlisted March 6th, 1862. for three years in Company L. Fourteenth Massachusetts regiment. ( I'.ntered Company I), Seventeenth Massachusetts regiment, August, 1861. and discharged for disability Ortobcr 2<l, the same year.)

History Of Merrimac

One of the marked events in the history of Amcsbury was the incorporation of a new town, embracing that portion of the old one commonly known as the West parish. Several attempts had previously been made to change the limits of the town, h\\\ without nccomplishing the desired rcsnlt. (icncrally the West parish had been unfavorable to any change, but within a few years various questions of much importance to this section had arisen, which had met with little favor at the cast cm] of the town. One of the most prominent measures was the eonstrurtion of a railway from the Mills through the western part of the town, and connecting with the Hoston & Maine railroad. The town refused its ( redit to this measure, fearing to assume so heavy a responsibility in that direction. After the burning of the Town House, the meetings for town l)usiness were held alternately at the I'last and West ends of the town, which was somewhat inconvenient. These and other considerations, in connect i(»n with the very generous offer of William V. Sargent, Ms<|., of I'oslon, but a native of West Amesbury, to build the new town an elegant Town Hall, united the people in favor of a new town.

A public meeting was held at Coliseiun Flail January i8th, to consider the matter, which kindled much enthusiasm in its favor. A mass meeting was. also, held at South Amesbury on the 26th inst. for consultation with citizens there, which resulted in the determination to proceed without delay for the incorporation of the new town of Merrimac. Immediate action was taken by the presentation to the legislature of petitions numerously signed.

Strong opposition, however, was shown in the Kast parish, most of the citizens disa))proving of any change in the limits of this anc ient town. Wanting one month and thirteen days only of two himdrcd and ten years had the town remained intact, and the associations of more than two centuries had grown to be very strong upcm the minds of many people. T^ut the mea.s lire was now in the hands of the legislative committee for inves tigation. U was now found lluit ihc petitioners had failed to do what Amesbury did in 1666 when " Phihp C*hallis was chosen to give the old town notice of our petition we send to (leneral Court," and it became necessary to call a town meeting to see if the town would waive the notice. The result was four hundred and nineteen yeas to two hundred and ten nays.

On the 2d of March a committee from the legislature visited the town to examine the locality and ascertain the necessity for a division. They were taken through the villages and shown the situation of the town. Their report was favorable, and April loth the act incorporating the new town of Merrimac passed the legislature and was signed by the governor the next day.

Thus, as by magic, sprang into existence a new town to l)c hereafter ranked among the numerous family of towns in this ancient Commonwealth. The event was hailed with joy in the new town and general good feeling prevailed.

The line of separation was : ** Heginning at a |>oint on the Merrimac river, at the middle of the mouth of I'ressey's creek, (so called) and thence running northerly in a straight line to the most northerly point of land on the southerly side of Kimball's pond, thence north-westerly in a straight line to a point on the town line dividing .Amesiniry and Newton, N. 11., two thousand and fifty feet west from the monument on the state line dividing Massachusetts and New Hampshire, situated on a road leading from Newton, N. H., to Amesbiuy, and near the house of Arthur Roi)ertshaw." This gave Merrimac a territory not far from three miles s(|uare and a population of two thousand, one himdred and seventy-one by the last census.

April 2oth. \ town meeting was held for the election oi' town officers, which resulted as follows : Town clerk, IJaile) Sargent; selectmen, William H. Haskell, S. S. Blodgett and Alexander Smart; school committee, O. V. Seavey, C. N. Dinsmore and W. H. Hubbard; treasurer and collector, liailey Sargent. Thus, in ten days after incorporation, the town was organized and in working order.

The most suitable location for the Town Hall was found on the corner of Main and School streets, and the following gentlemen generously puK hasvd tlu> premises at an expense of alxHit

July 27th. 'Vhc corner stone was laid by Right Worshipful Wy/.cman Marshall. Acting (iraiul Master of the Massachusetts (Irand 1 xxlge, assisted by Worshipful V. K. Jones, Acting drand Marshal, and liothany Ix)dge of Free and Accepted Masons, of Merrimac.

The first floor contains the public library, selectmen's office, post-oflice, peril ulical store, shoe store and the National l>ank rooms. The entrance to the hall, very i)ro|)erly designated "Sjirgent's Hall." is through the large lower on the left, by a broad flight of stairs, which opens into it on the second floor. It is a well-furnished hall, capable of seating about six hundred persons. The tower is sunnomited by a handsome clock, the gift of Tatlen Sargent, ICscj., of MerriuKuport. Standing on an elevated spot, it is a very conspicuous object when entering the town.

In less than four months this substimtial and finely constructed building was completed and ready for occu])ation. C)n Monday afternoon, November i3lh, the dedicatory services took place. James I). Pike, l^s<|., was appointed master of ceremonies and opened the exercises with appropriate remarks. Hon. (fcorge H. l/)ring, of Salem, delivered the address, which was listened to by a crowded assembly, and was one of this popular orator's best efforts. Its length forbids its insertion here. The remarks of William P. Sargent, ICsq., were very appropriate and worthy of remembrance by alb Remarks were, also, made by Dr. James R. Nichols, Mr. Prastow, of the (lovernor's Coimcil. J. W. Silloway, the architect, Rev. Albert Paine, Patten Sargent. I«'.s(|., and Mr. Wingate V. Sargent. Prof Marshall read an original poem written for the occasion by Harriet Prescott Spofford.

A social entertainment was given in the evening, which was made interesting by readings, speaking and a promenade concert, which close<l the services of this interesting occasion.

Hisiorv Ov Mk.Ruimac

William \\ Sargent, ICsq., the liberal donor of the public hall, was born in Amesbury November 24th, 18 19, and was the oldest son of Patten Sargent, V.m]. Mr. Sargent received a good education, attending the public schools in his native town and, also, the academies at Atkinson, Hampton and Derry, N. H. After thus completing his education, he served an apprenticeship at carriage building in his father*s shop. After completing his term here, he entered his lather's store as clerk, and was subse(|uenlly admitted to a partnership in the carriage business with his father, which arrangement continued for several years. Subseciuently he entered a firm for manufacturing carriages and dealing in supplies at Providence, R. [., and Taunton, Massachusetts, of which he became the principal manager. He now formed an extensive acriuaintance widi the dis tributors of the products of carriage factories throughout the country, and obtained that kind and amount of information, which gave him abundant mental capital for the establishment of his own great enterprise.

In 1 85 1 Mr. Sargent estalished himself in Boston, and, procuring a depot at the corner of Sudbury and Friend streets, formed a copartnership with Mr. William Gunnison and Mr. William H. Haskell under the firm name of Sargent, (Umnison i'^ Company, and, as the result of hard work and great experience, built up a large business and established an enviable reputation.

His main office still reniains at the same place, although the premises have been enlarged from time to time, as his increasing business required, until they now show a frontage of one hundred and seventy feet on Sudbury street and one hundred and thirty feet on Friend street.

Just previous to the war, Messrs. Ounnison and Haskell retired from the firm. Hefore the close of the war Mr. Sargent found his business extending and new markets constandy opening.