Sharon Town (part 1 of 3)

Massachusetts How To Reach Sharon

Sharon is seventeen miles from Boston and twenty-five from Providence, on the Providence Division of the Old Colony Railroad. There are eleven trains from Boston each week day, including a theatre train, and two trains out on Sunday. Time of trains from Boston, thirty to forty minutes. This road is one of the oldest, best equipped and most carefully managed roads in the country. It crosses no drawbridge, the trains are almost invariably on time and have plenty of cars, so each passenger can have a seat. It is double tracked with steel rails it? entire length.

Its Boston station on Columbus Avenue and Park Square is convenient and comfortable, and architecturally, the most beautiful in the United States. It is said by those who have travelled extensively, to be unequalled in the world, when convenience, comfort, looks and surroundings are taken into account. Single fares from Boston to Sharon, forty cents ; five tickets, one dollar and seventy-five cents, or thirty-five cents each. Season tickets for three months, twentythree dollars, or about fourteen cents a trip. Single fare from Sharon to Providence, sixty cents. One thousand-mile tickets, good on any portion of the Old Colony sj'-stem, 820.00. Passengers from New York can reach Sharon by the all rail Shore line, or bv the Providence

Steamboat line. To drive from Boston to Sharon take Brush Hill turnpike and come via Canton. From Jamaica Plain come via Dedham and Norwood. From New Bedford, Tauuton and Fall River via Easton Furnace, or come by rail via Mansfield.

Sharon has three mails a day to and from Boston, and two to and from Providence. The Western Union Telegraph Company have an office in the railroad station, and the New England telephone wires enable us to talk with all the country.

Providence Division Old Colony Railroad Description

Sharon, Norfolk Count}', Massachusetts, offers great inducements to the farmer, the poultry keeper, the gardener, , the manufacturer and the invalid, as also to those seeking a quiet, pleasant home. Its attractions as a suburban residence, especially to those doing business in Boston, Providence and neighboring towns and cities, are unequalled by any other place within fifty miles of Boston.

This book is intended to make Sharon better known and appreciated, and not as a catalogue or advertisement of the property that is for sale or to let here. I have a large number of farms for sale, varying in price from $600 to $12,000, also houses furnished and unfurnished for sale and to let, and various kinds of business for sale. As this work is only issued once or twice a year, and such property is constantly changing hands, it is obviously impossible to catalogue a correct list in this book. Write me your wants and I will cheerfully inform you what there is in the market here.

Pure Air, Perfect Drainage

Sharon is the most elevated town in eastern Massachusetts, and from its situation and the nature of the soil the natural drainage is almost perfect. It is at the summit of the watershed of three rivers, and it is a singular fact that though a very large town in extent, yet not one drop of water runs into it from any other town, but water runs out of Sharon into each of the seven adjoining towns. Thus it will be seen that the air and the water of Sharon can never be polluted by the drainage of any other town.

The town is from two hundred to five hundred and thirty feet above sea level It is sheltered on the east by the Blue Hills of Milton. The soil is grayelly and contains iron and there is a great deal of pine wood growing in the town. All of these things with the perfect drainage, tend to make the air of Sharon pure and healthy; but in addition to all this, some, as yet undiscovered law, causes a large amount of ozone to always exist in the air here, making it at all times soft, balmy and extremely agreeable. Even the much and justly abused east wind is deprived of its harshness here and is not disagreeable.

In 1871 the Boston Traveller said : "In a work on local causes of Consumption by Dr. Bowditch, published in 1852, he speaks of Sharon as likely to be free from lung diseases. "The correctness of his opinion is now shown by the official records, from winch it appears that one* fourth of all who have died in the town in the last five years were over eighty years of age, and more have died from old age than from consumption."

old age, and were of persons over eightyseven. It should be added that Sharon is a growing town, with twenty per cent. of its inhabitants between five and twenty years of age."

More than fifty years ago, when the Boston & Providence Eailroad was being built, Maj. McNeil, who was then the most eminent civil engineer in this country, spent some time in Sharon. He published an article calling attention to the remarkably pure air of Sharon, but at that time the influence of climate on health had not received attention, and the matter was forgotten until twenty years later, when the late A. D. Bacon, M. D.. of Sharon, called the attention of other physicians to the subject.

Dr. Bacon said: "I have never seen contagious or infectious diseases become epidemic here. I have had cases of small pox, diptheria and scarlet fever in their most virulent forms among my patients, under circumstances where we should suppose they would spread fearfully, but those most exposed did not take the disease." He also said : "All diseases seem to yield more readily to medical treatment here than in any other locality with winch I am acquainted."

Careful tests made under the direction of a scientific man, have shown more ozone in the air of Sharon than in any other place where tests have been made east of the Rocky Mountains.

Ozone exists here in such quantities as to destroy all disease germs in the atmosphere, so that no infectious or contagious disease ever has become epidemic hero, and probably none ever will. The New York Medical Tribune says: ciAir loaded with putrid or miasmatic exhalations is immediately purijied by contact with ozonized air, and again a development of such exhalations cannot well take place in the presence of ozone. The action of ozone on such impure air is extremely powerful. According to Schcenbein, sn atmosphere containing only 1-3,240,000 of ozone is capable of destroying all noxious matter contained in an equal volume of miasmatic air. Where or whenever there is a deficiency of this quantity of ozone, there will occur zymotic and contagious diseases, such as typhoid, scarlatina, measles, small pox. miasmatic fevers, yellow fever, etc., as well as all sorts of skin diseases."

Water

The Sharon Water Company supplies the town with an abundance of pure water, taken from an immense spring near the head waters of the Neponset, the Charles and the Taunton rivers. The spring, from its great elevation, is in no danger of ever being contaminated, and there is sufficient water for fifty thousand people.

This water is raised by steam power to a standpipe. from which it is distributed under sufficient head, to not only enter the highest rooms in the village, but also to extinguish fires, the town being supplied with well equipped and well managed hose companies and a hook and ladder company.

Cold Cured

The pure air of Sharon has already been spoken of. It is of such a peculiar nature that invalids feel its curative effects at once, and I most earnestly advise the sick and the convalescent to give it a trial. I can give the addresses of people who have been cured by a residence in Sharon, of what was pronounced by the best doctors to be the last stages of consumption, and can assure everyone afflicted with lung trouble that they will be sure to find relief here, if they are not fully cured.

There have been many cases of Hay Fever and Rose Cold cured here. The air of Sharon has been found beneficial for very young children and the seveial charitable institutions in Boston, that have charge of babies, send many of their wards here to board. Though these waifs are usually orphans who have inherited diseases from one or both of their parents, and are necessarily while here fed from a bottle, yet with Sharon air and Sharon milk, the great majority of them live and thrive.

Physicians in Boston and in towns nearer Sharon, having seen the eftects of Sharon air on these babies, are beginning to also send the weakly children of their wealthy patrons here to board.

land and New York have learned the beneficial effects of Sharon sir, and send their chronic and convalescent patients to me, to get them boarded, and though this part of my business is of no benefit to me I am always happy to aid such people to get places suited to their requirements and their purses, and from my long and varied experience I am often able to make valuable suggestions on the subject.

No person who is sick should go to anj' far off land in search of health and rest, until they have given Sharon a trial, since here one is not necessarily deprived of any comfort, luxury, or medical attendance, that can be obtained in any city in our land. Remember, the air of Sharon is entirely different from that of any other town in the vicinity. Invalids will almost always feel its beneficial effects as soon as they arrive here, and the trouble and cost of giving it a trial are merely nominal.

I can give the addresses of doctors of all schools in Boston, New York, Newport, Fall River, New Bedford, and many other places, who have had patients sick with most of the diseases that flesh is heir to, who have derived benefit from a residence here, but reference to them is hardly necessary, since the best of the medical profession throughout the country are enthusiastic in their praises of Sharon air. But many times they find it hard to convince their patients that so simple and easy a change as a journey to Sharon will effect their cure.

long ago: "If I could make my wealthy patients believe in Sharon air as I do, I could fill every house in your little town, but they think they ought to go way off' somewhere." Again we say to all invalids, give Sharon air a trial. It won't cost much and may and probably will benefit you, as it has hundreds of others.

Owners of fancy animals have found that the air of Sharon is as beneficial to beast as to man, and send their valuable dogs and horses here to board. There are several establishments devoted to the care of dogs. In 1872, when almost every horse throughout the land was sick with the epizootic, our horses in Sharon escaped though used every day, thus showr ing that the ozone in the air here does kill disease germs. In one case at that time, a horse driven into town by a pedler, died of the disease, while an expressman's horse in the next stall did not take it, though no special precautions were used to prevent it.

Taxes And Town Affairs

Those who would reside where the public affairs are carefully managed and the public money judiciously spent, and would dodtje those towns and cities where recklessness and extravagance prevail, will find in Sharon a desirable home.

The voters of Sharon are liberal in making appropriations for all objects that are supported by town taxes, but so carefully and judiciously is the money expended that the tax is kept low on a low valuation. Politics never enter into town af- fairs, the best man being chosen to office without regard to political parties. This town was the first one in the state to supply free text hooks to' scholars. It supports a High School, though not obliged by law to do so. and the schools are all kept forty weeks in a year. The schools are partly supported by the income of an invested fund, which was given for the purpose many years ago. The town debt is small and being rapidly diminished. The schoolhouses are ample for the needs of the town and in good repair. There is a very good Town Hall, good fire apparatus well housed, and the few town's poor are well cared for on a large farm. The appropriations recommended by the different boards of town officers, are generally yoted without a dissenting voice. Yet with all this liberality on the part of the town, the tax rate averages only ten dollars on one thousand dollars, and that, as has been said, on a low valuation.

There is a reasonable hope that even this low tax rate will soon be considerabry reduced. The valuation of the town is but little more than one million dollars. Should a few rich people gain a residence here, as they talk of doing, the valuation of Sharon would be more than doubled, and the tax rate be reduced in the same proportion.

Standing of its people, and its benevolence and public spirit, it will compare favorably with other towns. When a law was' passed permitting towns to furnish text books free to schools, it was just like Sharon to be the first town in the state to adopt the plan. It was just like Sharon to support a High School, though not compelled bjr law to do so. For thirty years it has been just like Sharon to vote all the school money the school committee asked for, and these votes are generally passed unanimously. In other towns and cities their appropriations are usually higgled over and cut down. For thirty years it has been just like Sharon to vote without question almost every cent of money that has been asked for, for every reasonable purpose, and it has been just like Sharon to spend that money so judiciously that we take good care of our poor, have good roads and as low taxes as any town in the state. It is just like Sharon to have a fine town hall at a moderate cost ; a good Public Library ; to have its lake well stocked with fish ; to have the telephone and telegraph, and to have railroad accommodations unsurpassed by any town of its size within a like distance of Boston. More than fifty years ago, a few citizens of Sharon supplied themselves with pure water from Sharon Springs, by forcing it up to an elevation of one hundred feet, which was something they had never seen accomplished, and which wise men told them could never be done. This was? just like .;. and unlike any town in the vi- cinity, and now, when the old wc inadequate, it is just like Sharon to ue unanimously a liberal sum to supply the whole village with pure water. We might mention many other commendable things in which Sharon is unlike other towns, if our space wTould permit."

Stores And Markets

Sharon being a farming town with milk farms, market gardens and poultry yards, fresh and nice vegetables, poultry, milk and eggs are always to be had. Physicians say that milk from cows kept in Sharon is healthier than that from cows kept in less healthy towns. This will not seem unreasonable to those who know how sensitive the nursing infant is to the health of the woman who gives it sustetance. The stores and markets of Sharon supply meats, groceries and fruits, equal in quality to the best sold in Boston, and the vast woodlands of Sharon supply an abundance of that fuel to those who would enjoy the healthy luxury of an open wood fire:

Society

Though a very rural town, Sharon is so closely connected with Boston and Canton as not to be isolated or lonesome, even in winter. The Masons, Odd Fellows and Grand Army members meet with lodges in Canton, which is only three miles off. In fact, the people of the two towns are intimately and pleasantly connected in all the relations of life. Social- ly, Sharon is like most well ordered New England villages, somewhat enlivened, however, by the presence of families who have come from neighboring towns and cities, to find pleasant, healthy here. Four churches furnish religious instruction. There is a good Public Library, free to all. The Town E all is used for lectures, concerts, entertainments, and assemblies, and a late train from Boston every night, summer and winter, gives an opportunity to attend lectures, concerts and theatres, in that city. The town always votes no license, and no rum shops or disreputable houses are allowed. New comers to the town are sure of a cordial welcome from those already here. It is characteristic of Sharon people to like to see their neighbors have a pleasant and enjoyable time.

Sceneky, Walks And Drives

The scenery, walks and drives of Sharon are unsurpassed, and we think unequalled in any other town in eastern Massachusetts. They cannot be adequately described, but must be seen to be appreciated. Usually where the scenery is wild the roads are poor, if not absolutely unsafe. It is not so here. The roads are good in all parts of the town.

In the following drives you are supposed to start from the post-office : Everv one will wish to drive around Massapoag pond ; from the post-office and back it is six miles. Another drive you must take to see Sharon is to Moose Hill. The nearest town road is the one past the depot, but it is very hilly. There is a very romantic road to Moose Hill, but it is not a town way. It is through the yard at Sharon station and across the "old dam." It is beautifully wooded, nicely shaded and not very rough. To return by easier grades, come down the "Moose Hill road" to Main street. From the summit of this hill may be seen the residences of onequarter of all the inhabitants of Massachusetts. The following interestingsketch of wdiat may be seen from Moose Hill, was prepared for me by E. G. Chamberlain. Esq., of Auburndale, Mass., who is a member of the Appalachian Club :

"Moose Hill is 5:30 feet above sea level. The tower affords an additional elevation of 20 feet. The tower is square, the sides facing precisely to the four cardinal points. Let us take the views in order from left to right. All elevations are reckoned from sea level and all bearings from the true meridian.

"Due north is West Dedham Unitarian church, six miles distant, quite conspicuous on a hill. A little to the right is Arlington Heights, twenty miles, and under it the Theological Seminary on Institution Hill in Newton. More to the right is Norwood village, five miles, and Dedham with its court house dome, nine miles. About N. N. E, is Boston, the State House dome bearing X. 25° 27- E., 18 miles. Just at its left is the white tower of Ro.xbury standpipe, and bet veen and beyond them is Bunker Hill Monument. A trifle to the right is the large village of Hyde Park, ten miles. N. E. is the Blue Hill range, Great Blue at the left being eight miles distant and 635 feet high. A little left of it we may get a glimpse of tide water near Winthrop, while nearer we look down on the meadows of Neponset River. Next to Great Blue is Hancock Hill, then Hillside Street Gap, Bugbee Hill and the peak of Chickataubut, 518 feet high, under whose left flank is Bear Hill, hardly separable. In line with Chickataubut is Cautou Corner church, five and one-half miles. A little to the right is Canton Village, four miles, and nearly over its left hand steeple is Strawberry Hill, twenty-one miles, crowned by a standpipe. To the left of this and nearer, is the tower on Penu's Hill (in Braintree?). To the right of the right hand of ^anton steeple is the tripletowered Atlantic House at Nantasket, twenty-one miles. Between Strawberry Hill and the Atlantic .House may be seen Massachusetts Bay, the sea horizon line being SO 1-2 miles distant. A little to the right, nine miles oft", are ths three tall spires of Randolph, about three degrees apart, the left hand one bearing E. N. E. Due E. is Sharon, two miles, and over it the large village of Stoughton, six miles. Considerably to the right, ten miles oil', is Brockton. Just right of its tallest spire is the Standish Monument, on Captain's Hill in Duxbury, 28 1-2 miles. The large pond, two miles S. E., is Massapoag. Nearly over its left end is East Bridgewater, fifteen miles. About over its centre is Bridgewater, fifteen miles, and over its right end Middleboro, twen- ty-two miles. Due South (S. 0° 20- W.) is Great Meadow Jlill inRehoboth, seventeen miles, crowned by a group of trees. Nearly under its right base is Mansfield, seven miles. About S. S. W. are the two spires of Foxboro, 4 1-2 miles. Half way between Great Meadow and Foxboro, appears a very small sharp peak, Oak Hill, in Attleboro, fifteen miles, and nearer at its right, the village of East Attleboro. Turning nearly to W. S. W. we see, three miles off, South Walpole with its short white steeple. Nearly over its left is the summit of WoonsocketHillin Rhode Island, twenty miles. To the right of W. S. W. is the tall cupola of Dean Academy in Franklin, with steeples at its right. "Turning nearly to W. N. W. we see the low-pointed ridge of Asnybumskit Hill, in Paxton, 1407 feet, thirty-seven miles ; and more toward N. W. the very conspicuous Waclmsett Mountain in Princeton, of the same range, 2018 feet, forty-three miles, is seen over Walpole village, 2 1-2 miles oft1. Midway between Asnybumskit and Waclmsett is seen Rice Hill in Rutland, forty-one miles, a little left of which are three steeples, nearly in line, one above the other, viz : Hopkinton, seventeen miles, Shrewsbury, twentyeight miles, and Rutland, forty-two miles. Somewhat to the right of Waclmsett is the low ridge of Monoosnook Hill in Leominster, forty-one miles, seen over Medfield village 6 1-2 miles off. Still to the right is Grand Monadnock Mountain, in Jaft'rey, N. sixty-eight miles, 3170 feet high, a sharp peak falling oft* very gradually to the right. Between Monoosnook and Monaclnock, just N. W.. is Sherborn church, eleven miles. Against the right flank of Monaclnock is the round knob of Watatick Mountain, in Ashburnham, Mass., 1847 feet, fifty-two miles a peak of the Wachnsett range. This range we follow to the right of New Hampshire, by Mt. Kidder in New Ipswich, Spofford and Temple Mountains in Temple, and the noticeable twin summits of Pack Monadnock, near Peterboro'. The latter are about 2280 feet high, and sixtytwo miles distant. Between Watatick and Kidder, the near round hill, nineteen miles off, is Nobscot, inFramingham, 602 feet.

"To the right of the Pack Monadnocks, eight miles off, is a group of hills in Dover, through a gap in which we get a glimpse of Lyndeboro' Pinnacle, sixtytwo miles off. Turning far toward the North we see Prospect Hill in Waltham, eighteen miles, with little Prospect on its left flank, and further left, the village of Lincoln, twenty-one miles. I have identified some prominent buildings in about fifty villages, some of them requiring the telescope. Many other villages have been observed but not yet fully identified. The spire at the right of Poxboro may prove to be in Pawtucket, E. I. The calculated bearing of Brown University at Providence. 22 1-2 miles, places it midway between the Foxboro steeples, but I have never been favored with a view of it. It is probably not visible."

and persons with weak lungs enjoy it much. Invalids, by carrying a lunch and spending some hours on the hill, are often benefitted. I regret that there is no boarding place there. Perhaps some time there Brill be a sanitarium or hotel on the hill. It would be well patronized.

On your return, on Moose Hill Street, you will pass the barn of Henry L. de Bussigny, where are kept in summer some of the -finest saddle horses in the country. His stable is worthy of a visit from all lovers of fine bred horses.

The poultry house that you pass on returning is over eight hundred feet long, and has a wing, not in sight of the road, four hundred and eighty feet long. It pas intended for ten thousand fowl.

For a short drive, take Main Street to Foxboro, turn the first left through "Gun House Lane" then next left home. In "Gun House Lane1' formerly stood the gun house in which was stored the cannon to protect the inhabitants from their enemies. Elm Lawn, near the corner of the lane, was formerly the Randall homestead, and here died not many years ago, "Boston Randall", a very aged negro, and probably the last slave owned in Massachusetts. He was brought from Africa and kept as a body servant, until he finally became a family pet. He refused his freedom and was kindly cared for by the family while he lived. He was buried, as was his master's family, in the Chestnut Tree cemetery.

For a very romantic drive, take Mai Street and Walpole Street to Mr. Benja min Rhoades' house, turn sharp to th1 left, and follow County Street until conies to Main Street, near Paradise crah berry meadow. County Street is full o sharp pitches, aud not much travelled, bu it is decidedly wild and has a history. I is one of the oldest roads in Massachu setts, having been called "the path t( Bristol." It was over this road MadamJ Knight rode on the first night of her fa mous journey to New York, and tin1 "Wayman's Ordinary," where she spen* the first night, stood near where thecranj berry store-house now stands. Here Ebe! nezer Billings is supposed to have buil his tavern about, 1658, many years before there was a white person in what is nov\| Canton.

For a variety of ferns, drive througl; the Pigeon Swamp road. Maiden liaii ferns grow here. You will have a romam tic drive to go past Leonard's mill, turn' ing sharp to the left at the cemetery anc taking the first right and then the nexi right. Near the house of J. M. Bullard on this road, you get a splendid view anc an assortment of ferns.

Drive to Wolomolpoag Pond, and turn, to the left and the next left home. If you; care for places of historic interest, whenj on this drive take the right at Mrs. T. eJ Clark's, and go to Clapp's saw-mill. Here was the foundry, where, under General

Not far from Mrs. Clark's, King Philip ticl his warriors camped the night they urned Medfield, in 1(170. They passed ,ie "Wayman's Ordinary" just at dusk, ,at spared it because one of the chiefs aid. "Billings is Indians' friend."

It is six miles to Foxboro and six to outh Walpole. On the South Walpole )acl, Mr. Lyman Plympton has a cultivaid cranberry bog and a cultivated white ine grove, both equal, if not superior, to oy others in the State. To Walpole it 5 five miles, six to Norwood and three to lanton. At Canton go and see the large, olid stone viaduct, by which the railroad cosses the highway and Neponset River, t used to be considered one of the woners of the age. Also call and see a modlof the famous Strasburg clock at Hawes' Bwelry store. It was made by Mr. lawes and h,e kindly shows it to all who all.

To Declham it is ten miles. Here on last Street is the old Fairbanks house, vhich has been occupied by the same ainily for two hundred and forty years, twenty-five cents Miss Fairbanks will how you many curious relics and heirooms of the family.

To Stoughton it is six miles and to K>rt h Easton it is seven. At the latter ;he , Unitarian church, the other public raildings, and the magnificent grounds of L. Ames, which are open to the pubic, are worthy of a visit. To Easton Furnace, seven miles, is a pleasant drive, and a little off the road in East Mansfield are Austin's poultry grounds. Here a1 times may be seen as many as five thous and geese fattening for the market, as well as immense quantities of hens, duck and turkeys. Mr. Austin sometimes feeds1 sixty bushels of grain a day to his fowl. To East Foxboro is six miles. Much of the way this road runs beside the railroad track.

Lovers of wild flowers and ferns will find a great variety here. Those who delight to see farming operations will be interested in the market gardens and greenhouses on Sharon plain and the cranberry meadows farther west. The woods and] ponds of Sharon furnish game for the hunter and the numerous ponds and brooks furnish fish for the angler and the ponds also furnish ample opportunities for boating and bathing. Besides numerous mill ponds in Sharon, there are two beautiful sheets of water, called ' Wolomolpoag and Massapoag. Though only one mile apart, they are at the head of different rivers ; one flows to the west and the other to the east. Massapoag contains four hundred and sixty acres of water and is three hundred feet above sea level. There is a drive completely around it. Formerly the water flowed from this pond into both the Taunton and the Neponset rivers. The early settlers used to liken it to a leaky barrel, from which the water flowed in all directions.

ndians, while Wolomolpoag flowed into ;he Taunton and belonged exclusively to Bug Philip's tribe. The name Wolomoltoag is Indian and signified pleasant wat- :r, or sweet water, and it was most truthully named, being a beautiful sheet of vater.

Houses, Farms Akd Woodland

Within a reasonable walking distance )f Sharon station are hundreds of acres >f eligible building sites, which can be Jarchased at reasonable prices, and which jnust surely rise in value. l\eal estate iiere has never been boomed, neither has it ever been depressed, and sales under ,'oreclosure of mortgage are almost unknown here.

i Since the introduction of water in 1885, liere has been a marked growth of the jplage and a gradual rise of improved u'operty, which I have reason to believe vill continue. Within a half hour's drive ?>f the two railroad stations in Sharon, mere are some farms to sell, much below ;heir value, which if intelligently maniged by one able and willing to work, vould be sure to pay a handsome income, farming in Sharon can be made unusualy profitable, as the summer people furlish a new market for produce and the mmerous manufacturing tonus and cites in the vicinity take all the surplus at -enumerative prices.

There are some large tracts of wood- Mads and unimproved lands for sale at bargains and some of them are ceraiu to become more valuable soon. Just

I have farms of all sizes and prices fo: sale, houses for sale and houses to let furnished and unfurnished. I also hav< various kinds of business for sale. A; this book is only published once, or a the most twice a year, and as property ii my nands is constantly changing, it i: useless to catalogue it in this work and do not attempt it, but if those in want o: a house, a farm or any business willwrifl and describe their wants, I will try t( suit them. As I have lived in Sharoi more than thirty years, the last nineteer of which have been devoted to the buy< ing and selling of real estate on commit sion, and to making the town bettei known. I know all the property that is in the market, and the customers, and arc generally enabled to serve my patrons in a satisfactory manner. In the spring I have a large variety of furnished houses to rent, the prices varying from $150 or $200 to $1,000 for the season. I have also a few unfurnished houses and tenements to let, but the supply is limited, and does not equal the demand.

There is a large and sure opening in Sharon for hotels and boarding places,! the demand being almost unlimited and far exceeding the supply. Persons of! some means, who are adapted to the business, can find here an excellent opening. There is also a good opening for a good1 country tavern, where one can get enter-

I am always pleased to show the town "and the property in the market without expense to those seeking a home, whether they become customers or not. It is ino trouble to show the property ttiere is !in the market. My carriage is at the Sharon station every pleasant day except Saturdays, on arrival of the 9.25 A. M. End the 2 P. M. trains from Boston. If you wish to come any other day or on Sany other train please notify me by mail, i telegraph or telephone. I have a telephone in my house and parties can always talk direct with me from any telephone in : Boston or on any of the suburban lines. ('My name and number will be found in the (catalogue, which each telephone subscriber in Boston or any suburban town has.

Hotels And Boarding Houses

There is a large summer hotel by the of Massapoag, called the Massapoag Lake House, which will accommodate about one hundred and forty guests. Elm Lawn is a farm boarding house on the west shore of Massapoag. There are lalso four cottages of four rooms each, . which are let in connection with the house, t He can accommodate some forty. The -Sharon also accommodates about forty. All these houses set good tables and have good accommodations for horses. There are also a number of houses where from two to a dozen boarders are taken at prices varying from five to ten or twelve dol-

I intend to keep thoroughly posted in regard to those who have vacant rooms, their location, prices, etc., and am always happy to give information and make suggestions to those seeking board, and am often enabled to save them time, trouble and money. If those seeking board will write, enclosing stamp, I will cheerfully! furnish them any desired information. Please state what you require, how many rooms, whether there are children, and! what price you expect to pay. "Reasonable prices", if from a stranger, conveys no information to me, since thirty dollars a week from some of my patrons would | be reasonable, and others find it hard to pay five dollars. Generally good board cannot be obtained for less than seven dollars a week. This branch of my business is of no pecuniary profit to me, but it is my desire and for my interest to see people located in Sharon, to their own satisfaction. Good carriages, with careful drivers who know the boarding places will be furnished on application to me at not to exceed one dollar an hour. Come by the 0.25 A. M. or 2 P. M. train; if coming on any other train, give previous notice by mail, telegraph or telephone, and my carriage will be at the station. No charge for information or suggestions.

Low Taxes

Many persons who pay taxes on a large amount of personal property in cities where the rate of taxation is high, are proposing to change their residence to some place where tine burden of taxation is lighter. The attention of such is respectfully called to a few facts about Sharon. The present valuation of the town is about $1,000,000, and the tax rate for all purposes is $9.40 on $1,000. Several wealthy people talk of changing their residence to Sharon, the coming season, and should enough do so to increase the valuation to another million, - and there is reason to hope such will be the case, - the tax rate will not exceed $5.00 on $1,000. If this rate is once established, enough more will no doubt be added from year to year to make the tax rate of Shakon lower than it is in any other town or city in the state.

The present low tax rate has not been reached by niggardly appropriations, but by careful management and judicious expenditures of the money raised- There is no probability that the expenses of the town will be much increased for some time to come, as the town hall, schoolhouses and other public buildings are all new or in good repair, and amply sufficient for the needs of the town ; the town debt is small and is being rapidly extinguished under the present rate of taxation ; the

Sharon is very pleasantly situated on the Boston & Providence Railroad. 35$ feet above tide water, on the highest land between the two cities. It is thirty-live minutes' ride from Boston, frcm which there are nine trains a day, including a late train for lectures and theatres, which with the telegraph and telephone, and five mails a day, give ample communication with all the world. Sharon has long been celebrated for its fine drives, lakes, streams, pine groves, and healthy air. Of late years it has become" quite a resort for invalids and convalescents, eminent physicians having recommended it to their patients and pronounced it the Healthiest Town in the State. Chemical tests of the atmosphere have found in it a larger amount of ozone than has ever been found at any other place east of the Rocky Mountains, and to this fact is attributed the healthy and curative effects of the air of Sharon.

The markets of the town supply all that is needed in the line of groceries and provisions. There are four churches, yearly schools, and a well selected public library. In short, Sharon, from its accessibility to Boston and Providence, its i churches, schools, public library, scenery, healthy air and Low Taxes has advantages as a suburban residence unequalled by any locality near Boston.

Persons wishing further information will be waited upon at their residence or place of business if desired. Address the TOWN TREASURER, Sharon, Mass.

Sharon Improvement Association

The object of this Association as set forth in its constitution is, "To improve and ornament the streets and public grounds of Sharon, by planting and cultivating trees, cleaning and repairing sidewalks, and doing such other acts as shall tend to improve the town."

Since its organization on the twentyeighth of February, 1881, it has put street lights on the principal streets, has built a passable road to Moose Hill and erected an observatory on its summit, has placed a Howard clock in the tower of one of the churches, and has been the means of the chartering and formation of the Sharon Water Company and the introduction into the village of an abundance of pure water.

The annual membership fee is one dollar; twenty-live dollars paid at onetime makes one a life member. Contributions to the funds of the Association are respectfully solicited, and will be carefully and judiciously expended by the executive committee, Make checks payable to

Sharon Spring Water

For drinking and all culinary and do-, mestic uses, our water is unequalled by few and unsurpassed by water from any other spring in the State.

We are prepared to furnish, at reasonable rates, power for running sewing machines, coffee grinders, ice cream freezers, churns, and other purposes where small power is needed.

Moose Hill Property

rpen acres of Wood Laud, overlooking hun- J. dreds of miles of territory and many villages Will be sold for $300. A little two and one-half acre place with an apology for a house, ought to bring $350. The Dixey place of 30 acres, a good cottage house and a poor barn will be sold for $2 700, on easy terms There is a splendid lot of wood land on the place, and the views are magnificent. Near the above are several lots of Wood Land, for sale cheap, and at the foot of the Hili, on the edge of Beaver Meadow, arc other lots of wood land for sale. Also some Trout Streams and Cranberry Bogs. Moose Hill is a very desirable location, and property there is sure to rise in value.

1>he Dixey farm on Moose Hill, has a good seven-room cottage house, a poor barn and 30 acres of good land, with plenty of wood, including a very nice grove. The situation is one ol the pleasantest and healthiest in this beautiful town. The view is just splendid. Price $2,500, on very easy terms. Mrs. Patten has only eight and one-half acres in her little farm, but it is all good land, finely situated on the b rders of Massapoag, and is well stocked with fruit and shade trees. There is a square two-story house and a small, cheap barn, $3,000.

I' or $7,000 or less, I can sell a modern built, large 12-room house, plenty of land and shade, house built by the day, cemented celiar, hot and cold water, bath room, and all improvements. No pains or expense were spared in building, but circumstances compel the owner to sell at once.

For $4,500, the C. D. Hixon house, right in the heart of the village. All modern improvements, cheaper than cheap. The Butler house, 18 rooms, set tubs, gas, water closet, bath room, and all that can be desired. Elegant stable, three acres of land, stocked with fruit. Good drainage, splendid view. Cost nearly $-20,000, and I hope to get $15,000 for it, but if I can't will sell for $12,000. Come and see it.

Half a house on our best street. The other part is owned and occupied by nice people. Fruit and land enough for a garden, for $900. This is a good place for two ladies or an old couple. On the same street is a double house, with four tenements, near pine wood. Price, $3,000. You can let them for 12 per cent, on your money. It is a desirable neighborhood.

T/or $4,0(0, I will sell the Lucas Johnson house, _T a stable and one acre of land, lots of fruit. It is a pretty place in the heart of the village. An old two-story house, and one acre of land, will be sold for $2,500. The best business location in the village.

On the Bav Road I have several farms to sell. One is a small vegetable and milk farm; the milk route will go with it. Another is a nice cottage house and barn, and one acre of land. As good a neighborhood as there is the world. Nearer North Easton, is a cheap little farm, and another just off of the Bay Road, in Stoughton.

At Sharon Heights I have a neat cottage house and one acre of land. Half mile from the station I have a French-roof house and one acre of land for sale cheap. Near the station at Sharon Heights is a 30-acre farm, for $1,500. There is a good barn but no house. Will sell most of the above with a very small amount down.

One of the best farms in Sharon for grass, poultry or vegetables. Will be sold with one or two houses as desired, and from 10 to 100 acres of land. Price from $1,000 to $3,500, according to what you take, but any or all of it at a big bargain. If you want a big stock farm with 140 acres of land, plenty of fruit and wood, a good old house, splendid barns, come and see me. On the edge of the village, I have a 60-acre farm, with a large modern house, suitable for a dude, and a good big barn.

The Johnson farm has buildings out of repair, but the land is finely situated to cut up into building lots, beiug high, dry, near station, and commanding a fine view. There is a demand for such lots.

A splendid small fruit farm, well stock- -^*- ed with a variety of small fruit and plums. Large house and barn; this is elegantly located near station, and will be sold at a bargain.

A good farm of sixty acres, right in -^*- Sharon village. Land will some day all be wanted for house lots. High, dry, healthy, fine scenery, and perfect drainage. Large two-story, square house, open fires and furnace, Sharon water, good barn. Will sell less land if desired. Near the above I have a 40-acre farm, land situated in same way, but the house is not quite so good. Both are good invest ments.

Elm Lawn

This splendid farm boarding house is now offered for sale. There is 40 acres of good land, extending from Lake Massapoag to the railroad track near Sharon Heights station. A part of the land is covered with pine groves and a part of the remainder is stocked with small fruits and plums. There are three thousand raspberry and blackberry plants also strawberries, asparagus and rhubarb. The buildings consist of a large mansion house, of some twenty-five rooms, four cottages and a large barn. The house has been successfully run for several years as a summer boarding house, and can always be filled at good prices. It will be sold low to the right party and on easy terms. The houses are now fully furnished, and all the furniture, linen and crockery will be sold with it.

jly the borders of a beautiful pond, I have a good 70-acre farm, which I must sell to settle an estate. There is a good barn and an old but good two-story square house. The place is good enough for you when you get worth $1,000,000, but I will sell it for $4,000. on easy terms. Two places to settle an estate, one of 45 acres and one of thirty; both have good houses and barns, both are good market gardens or poultry or grass farms. One has a cranberry bog. One of these will be sold with a small amount clown. Near the above is a neat, productive 25-acre farm, with wood enough to most pay for it, neat cottage house of seven rooms, piazza and blinds, barn and four poultry houses. $1,700, half cash or more.

On the shores of Massapoag, I will sell you a sixty-acre farm, for $5,500. Plenty of fruit, large, old cottage house, large barn. Near the above but not bordering on the lake, is a good farm, with a new cottage house ; will be sold cheap.

Mill And Farms

T you want a 100-acre farm with saw J-fand shingle mill, come and see the CI pp farm. It is a lonesome place, but very pretty and romantic. I will sell it with a little money clown or trade it. If you want a 120-acre farm with old fashioned buildings of not much account, but commanding a beautiful view and capable of being made an elegant place, come to Sharon and see me. I can sell a huge tract of building lots, cheap for cash. It is level, near station and well situated for any business, but you need money to develop it. I can sell you the best apple farm in Sharon, 70 acres of land, lots of wood, large barn, small house, splendid view and tony neighborhood. Owner wants all cash.

frihe Sharon Heights Poultry Farm, the J- largest poultry establishment in the State, is now offered for sale, because the owner has other business and can't attend to it. There is forty-five acres of land, well stocked with apples and plums, plenty of wood, a large cottage house in good repair, a small house for help, large barn, 1,300 feet of hen-houses, suitably divided. It is only one-half mile from the station and is in every respect admirably adapted to the poultry business. Will be sold for less than the cost of the buildings, on easy terms. I have some smaller "hen farms" to sell.

Some 300 acres of house lots, laying directly on the railroad, will be sold cheap to anyone having means to develop them. In the edge of Foxboro, I want to sell 40 acres of wood and pasture, to settle an estate. On the line of the Railroad I will sell fourteen acres of hard wood. It will be built on some day. On the shore of Massapoag, I can sell some nice unimproved land cheap. Part of it is covered with white pine. I have a small wood lot to sell on Main Street, near the village.

Tf you will agree to build a nice house -"- on it, I will sell you a splendid house lot on the "Ball Ground", the highest and best land in the village.

On Pleasant View, I have eight acres of house lots, to sell at a bargain. Also at the same plat, two eligible house lots, belonging to a Worcester man.

Tn Canton, on the railroad and near sta- tiou, I can sell you a big lot of land cheap. If you have got money and snap you can make a little fortune on it, for house lots.

Tn an adjoining town, I have for sale an -*- elegant estate : has cost probably, nearly $30,000. Would make a good place for a school, or some tony institution, or a gentleman's residence. What will you £'ive for it?

To Let

A nice, fully furnished house of nine rooms, furnace heat, Sharon water, ample grounds, near pine grove. Will be let for the summer of )889, or longer.

\ furnished house, of eight rooms, and -£*- one of nine rooms, will be let furnished. Both have Sharon water and the grounds of both adjoin a pine grove.

The Choate house will be to let in the Spring. There are eight large rooms, heat by a furnace, a large stable and several acres of land, Sharon water. It will be let furnished or unfurnished for the summer or by the year. It is right in the village. The view from the house is splendid.

jl/Tore than a mile from the station, is a JJJ_ good little farm, nice two-story house, barn and poultry house. Will keep two cows and a horse. A splendid chance to raise trout. $3,000.

]Vrear North Sharon sehoolhouse is a -^ good little farm, with house, barns and sheds, all are nice but need repairs. One mile from the station is a neat little farm, cottage house, small barn, and nice poultry house. Apples, peaches and grapes in abundance. $1,500; only $400 down.

For Sale

rilo settle an estate, a fine grass and veg- -*- etable farm of 40 acres, neat cottage house, fair barn and splendid shade. Price $2,000. It ought to bring more.

IVTear the above and belonging to the -^ same estate is another farm about the same size. It ought to bring $3,000, !>ut will be sold for less.

Tn the village, a house of 13 rooms, pi- J- azza, blinds, shade, sets high and has perfect drainage, 50,000 feet of good land and plenty of apples and pears. Price $3,500,

A n 80-acre farm, land level, easily -^ worked and free from stones, plenty of wood; large two-story, well kept square house, nice large barn. This is one of the prettiest places in Norfolk County ¥or a gentleman's country seat, or is a productive farm for a laboring man! It belongs to two ladies who cannot work it and will sell very low, on easy terms. Price $4,000.

TClourteen acres of woodland, directly -*- on the line of the railroad, high, dry, suitable for building land and will some day be valuable. Price .$700.

In Sharon, an 80-acre farm on the shores of a Tine lake, large two-story house and good barn. Near the above are 40 acres of pasture and woodland.

On the shore of Lake Massapoag, I can sell you an elegant house, with all modern improvements, a barn and fifteen acres of land. This is a place suitable for any gentleman. In the village is a modern built 13-room house, and one acre of land. Furnace heat; $4,000. Near the Knife Works, I have two cheap houses. Will sell them separate or together. One is two-story. At Sharon Heights, I will sell you the Clarke estate, of over sixty acres of land, close to the station. There are five houses and a barn. Will sell a part or all. It is a good investment, being close to the station. Welch's Grove, a beautiful pine grove, with 10 1-2 acres of land, directly on the railroad, commanding a fine view, will be sold for $1,200, and it is cheap.

Source changes here: from Annals of Sharon, Massachusetts, by Gould, Jeremiah. [from Old Catalog], published 1904; 18,614 words in this source stream.

Introduction To Reprint

A reprint is here given of the pamphlet published in Dedham, Massachusetts, in 1802, containing an address delivered by Mrs. Deborah Sampson Gannett of Sharon, Massachusetts. The pamphlet is now rare, and thanks are due to the Dedham Historical Society for the loan of its copy. The courtesy also is acknowledged of Miss Frances M. Mann of Dedham, for the use of the original copper plate from which was printed in 1797 the portrait of Deborah Sampson in the somewhat fanciful biography entitled "The Female Review, or Memoirs of an American Young Lady." Miss Mann is the librarian of the Dedham Public Library, and the granddaughter of Herman Mann, who wrote the Female Review.

The address was delivered by Mrs. Gannett in 1802, in many towns in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New York. It treats of her experience as a soldier of the American Revolution.

Deborah Sampson was born in Plympton, Massachusetts, December 17, 1760. Plympton is near old Plymouth, of which it was formerly a part, and Deborah's ancestors were some of the foremost Pilgrim settlers. In a note in John A. Vinton's edition of the Female Review (1866), pp. 45, etc., the descent of Deborah is traced from Abraham Sampson, Miles Standish. John Alden and William Bradford, as well as from Alice Southworth and Bathsheba Le Broche.

son enlisted in the Continental army as a soldier, and served in Capt. George Webb's Company in the 4th Massachusetts Regiment commanded by Col. Shepard, afterwards by Col. Jackson. She was wounded in an engagement at Tarrytown, New York, and was honorably discharged in the fall of 1783.

In the following spring she was married to Benjamin Gannett, the son of a patriotic citizen of Sharon, Massachusetts. Here she lived until her death, April 29, 1827, and reared a family of three children, Earl Bradford, Mary and Patience. Mary Gannett was married to Judson Gilbert and Patience Gannett to Seth Gay.

In recognition of her military service, the Massachusetts Legislature in 1792 granted her thirty-four pounds. The resolve recites "that the said Deborah exhibited an extraordinary instance of female heroism by discharging the duties of a faithful, gallant soldier, and at the same time preserving the virtue and chastity of her sex unsuspected and unblemished, and was discharged from the service with a fair and honorable character." On the nth of March, 1805, she was allowed a pension of four dollars per month at the pension ofitice in Washington. The pension commenced from January i, 1803, and was increased in 1816 to $6.40 per month. From 1819 she drew a pension of eight dollars per month during her life.

Eleven years after her death. Congress passed a special act (Statutes at Large, vol. 6, page 735), directing the secretary of the treasury to pay to the heirs of Deborah Gannett the sum of $466.66. The committee in reporting the bill, remark: "As there cannot be a parallel case in all time to come, the committee do not hesitate to grant relief." The act reads as follows: -

Erratum. - The reference in the text to the time of the marriage of Deborah Sampson was based on Mr. Vinton's notes in the Female Review ; but the original town records of Stoughton give April 7, 1785, as the date.

Introduction To Reprint 5

be, and he is hereby, directed to pay, out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated, to the heirs of Deborah Gannett, a revolutionary soldier, and late the wife of Benjamin Gannett, of Sharon, in the State of Massachusetts, now deceased, the sum of four hundred and sixty-six dollars and sixty-six cents, being an equivalent for a full pension of eighty dollars per annum, from the fourth day of March, eighteen hundred and thirty-one, to the decease of Benjamin Gannett in January, eighteen hundred and thirty-seven, as granted in certain cases to the widows of revolutionary soldiers by the act passed the fourth day of July, eighteen hundred and thirty-six, entitled "An act granting half pay to widows or orphans where their husbands or fathers have died of wounds received in the military service of the United States in certain cases, and for other purposes."

In preparing the foregoing facts concerning Deborah Sampson's military service, use has been made of the introduction to Vinton's Edition of the Female Review already referred to.

Deborah Sampson Gannett first delivered her address in the Federal Street Theatre in Boston, in March, 1802. Advertisements of the performances are found in the "Columbian Centinel," in the issues of March 20, 24 and 27. The places and times of some other deliveries of the address by her in the same year were : Providence, May 5 ; Worcester, July 22; Holden, July 30; Brookfield, August 9; Springfield, August 13; Northampton, August 18; Albany, August 31 and September i ; Schenectady, September 7 ; and Ballston Springs, September 9.

On her lecturing tour Mrs. Gannett lodged at the following places : - Robert Williams, Liberty Square, Boston; Widow Jones, Providence; Capt. John Seamons,

O Introduction To Reprint

The fact of the W'orcester address w^as furnished by Hon. Alfred S. Roe of that city, who discovered in the "Massachusetts vSpy" of Worcester, in its issue of July 21, 1802, the advertisement of the proposed address "in the Court House, tomorrow, at 5 o'clock P. M." The other names and dates above given, later than the Boston engagement, appear in a short diary kept by Mrs. Gannett, containing entries from May 3, 1802, to January 6, 1803. They are given here, partly with the hope that some readers may follow up a clew thus afforded, and from diaries, newspapers or family traditions may reach results of interest to be communicated to the Sharon Historical Society. For such communications the thanks of the Society will be given.

"1802, May 3d. I took stage in Dedham. Rode to Providence in company with Mr. William Billings and lady. This polite gentleman and lady showed every mark of genuine friendship. They invited me to take tea with them at our arrival. I informed these generous people of my wishes in making a public appearance, either in Mr. Amidon's hall or in the theatre. Mr. B. informed me that he wished to do everything that lay in his power to assist me, and appeared to be much pleased in reading the bill of my performance in the theatre at Boston.

"I conveyed my letters of recommendation to Mr. Wheeler, and this gentleman - Mr. Wheeler - came immediately, and he advised me to perform in Mr. Amidon's hall ; and finally I gave him my bill of the performance in Boston. He printed my bill, and they were set up in the most public places in the town, and Wednesday evening was to be the first of my performance. But I was quite unfortunate, indeed, for I was taken quite unwell, and of course was obliged to postpone my exhibition until Thursday evening.

"May 5. When I entered the hall, I must say I was much pleased at the appearance of the audience. It appeared from almost every countenance that they were full of unbelief - I mean in regard to my being the person that served in the revolutionary army.

"Some of them which I happened to overhear swore that I was a lad of not more than eighteen years of age. I sat some time in my chair before I rose to deliver my address. When I did, I think I may with much candor applaud the people for their serious attention and peculiar respect, especially the ladies."

The animated, flowing style and love of incident displayed in the foregoing extracts make one wish that Mrs. Gannett had penned her own address, and not "procured" it to be written, as stated in her editor's introduction.

In the Albany Register for August 31, 1802, was the following notice, a copy of which was furnished by Miss May Childs Nerney, who is in charge of the history division of the State Library in Albany.

"MRS. GANNET'S EXHIBITION "The ladies and gentlemen of Albany and its vicinity are respectfully informed that Mrs. Gannet, the celebrated American Heroine, who served nearly three years with great reputation in our Revolutionary Army, will, at the request of a number of respectable characters, deliver an Address to the inhabitants of this city and vicinity, in the Court House, this evening at Yz past seven o'clock.

Mrs. Gannett visited her captain (George Webb) in Holden, near Worcester, where she staid three weeks. She also visited her general (John Paterson) in Lisle, New York, where she staid a month. Of the latter visit she says: - "November 11 [1802] I arrived at Judge Paterson's at Lisle. This respectable family treated me with every mark of distinction and friendship, and likewise all the people did the same. I really want for words to express my gratitude. They often met together in the neighborhood and had the most social meetings. They seemed to unite in hearty congratulations with my old friend, Judge Paterson, on our happy meeting."

As General Paterson, now Judge Paterson, was a member of Congress, 1803 to 1805, and as Mrs. Gannett's pension was obtained in 1805 and ran from 1803, it would seem probable that he had a hand in procuring it. If so, it was a good pecuniary result of her lecturing venture. She also obtained from her lectures enough money to enable her to forward some to Sharon, "which I hope," she writes, "my family will make a good use of."

Concerning the contents of the address, it must be admitted that it contains little narrative, being largely apologetic. The speaker alludes to adverse criticism of her act in enlisting as a soldier, which she owns to be an act of presumption. But she had pondered on the injustice of the war, and wished to be an avenger. Seizing an opportunity, she enlisted, and then determined to stay to the end. A few scenes of the war are named. Of the engagement of White Plains, she says: "I was there." The motive that caused her to enlist is referred to. which she seems to decide by attributing it to her fate. If a man had done it, he would have achieved immortal glory and fame. But she was a woman, and so contents herself with claiming her hearers' indulgence, as she is conscious of the approbation of God. She closes the address with expressing her high respect for her own sex - -a respect increased by her rough experience.

To make the reprint more exact, the spelling of the original is preserved, such as the careless omission of a letter in the word "ADDRSS" on the title page. This

The lecturing- tour of Deborah Sampson Gannett in 1802 forms a most interesting chapter in her life, as it shows her to be a pioneer in this field. It may be diflficult to name a woman before her time who earned money by travelling alone from town to town, attending to her own business details and delivering an address. The writers of her career, however, have scarcely touched upon this subject. The first public notice of Mrs. Gannett as a lecturer appears to have been taken in her own town of Sharon, April 3, 1902, at a banquet in the town hall commemorative of the centenary of the event. On this occasion, afterdinner speeches were made by Mrs. Mary A. Livermore of Melrose, Hon. Alfred S. Roe of Worcester, Mrs. Myra B. Hatch of Whitman, Edmund H. Talbot and Rev. Almon J. Dyer of Sharon. Frank E. Burbank of Sharon read an address written by Rev. A. A. Berle, D. D., now of Salem. Selections from Mrs. Gannett's diary were read by Mrs. Susan G. Moody, a great-granddaughter, who resides in the old homestead.

1'he house where Deborah Sampson Gannett lived, somewhat changed, still stands in good preservation on East street, a mile from Sharon village, and her grave is in Rockridge cemetery, on the same street, one mile southw'esterly from the house. A street near by is named Deborah Sampson street. Many of her descendants reside in Sharon and the adjoining towns. The honored name of their ancestress is often pronounced, and visits are often made to her home and her grave. A new tribute to the memory of Mrs. Gannett will appear on the soldiers' monument soon to be erected a short distance from her grave, from funds bequeathed for the purpose in the will of her grandson, George Washington Gay, late of Sharon.

Intkoouction To Reprint Ii

He was son of Seth and Patience Gay above mentioned. After providing for the monument, the testator says: "I further request to have the name Deborah Sampson Gannett, with proper reference to her service in the war of the revolution, inscribed on the same memorial stone."

Published At The Request Of Thk Audiences

The character and achievements of Mrs. Gannett, late Deborah Sampson, the Americajt Heroine^ have excited niucJi curiosity in the United States. At the close of the revolution, she retired to an obscure part of Massachusetts, selected, or rather was selected, a partner of an indtistrious farmer. From her Memoirs, since published, and the best, nearest information., she continues to support, with reputation, the offices of Wife., MotJier and Friend - affable in her disposition, courteous in her manners,, and universally benevolent.

It is from her naturally ambitious disposition, and taste for a more elevated stile of life, that she is ifiduced to re-visit some of the principal places, zvhich were the theatre of her personating the soldier - to appear in public, to open the eyes of the incredulo7is, and to wipe off any aspersions, which the whispers of satire, caprice, or jnalevolence may have zvantonly thrown upon her.

This resolution being communicated to a tiumber of respectable Character's, she received invitations from thevi, to make her appearance oji the Boston Theatre, and to give a recital of some of the principal traits of her life. This proposal caught both herfaticy and her wishes, honorably to enhance the pecuniary interest of her family ; zvhich she is said industriously to economize.

dition since of about three pages. Under the superititendence of Messrs. Powell a)id Harper, she was ushered on to the Stage in a very polite manner ; luhere, before a croudcd assembly, perfectly unabashed, she very audibly recited her Jiaration. In the Manual Exercise, being in complete uniform, and during the Soldier's Festival, she acquitted lierself with peculiar ease and grace. - An attendant has since introduced her to the Audience by the follozving

Ye Guardian Friends of Liberty and Peace, Our surest hope of merit, power, increase, Mark here those traits so rare in Female's name ; She does not speak, nor do I ^x'\\.e:, for fame. Her boldest claim is simple, geninc Truth ; Her humblest plea is for her Sex and Youth. May not base calumny her deeds supplant ;

OT unlike the example of the patriot and philanthropist, though perhaps perfectly so in effect, do I awake from the tranquil slumbers of retirement, to active, public scenes of life, like those which now surround me. That genius which is the prompter of curiosity, and that spirit which is the support of enterprize^ early drove, or, rather illured me, from the corner of humble obscurity - their cheering aspect has again prevented a torpid rest.

Secondary to these are the solicitations of a number of worthy characters and friends, too persuasive and congenial with my own disposition to be answered with indifference, or to be rejected, have induced me thus to advance and bow submissive to an audience, simply and concisely to rehearse a tale of truth; which, though it took its rise, and finally terminated in the splendor of public life, I was determined to repeat only as the soliloquy of a hermit, or to the visionary phantoms, which hover through the glooms of solitude.

A Tale - the truth of which I was ready to say, but which, perhaps, others have already said for me, ought to expel me from the enjoyment of society, from the acknowledgment of my own sex, and from the endearing friendship of the other. But this, I venture to pronounce, would be saying too much : For as I should thus not respect myself, should be entitled to none from others.

I Indeed recollect it as a foible, an error and presumption, into which, perhaps, I have too inadvertantly and precipitately run; but which I now retrospect with aiiojuish and amazement - recollect it, as a Thomson, or any other moralizing naturalist, susceptible to the like fine feelino^s of nature, recollects the howlinor blasts of wiiiteT-, at a period when Floi^a has strewed the earth with all her profusion of delicacies, and whose zephyrs are wasting their fragrance to heighten our sensations of tranquility and pleasure; - or, rather, perhaps, I ought to recollect it, as a marriner, having regained his native shore of serenity and peace, looks back on the stormy billows which, so long and so constantly had threatened to ingulph him in the bowels of the deep! And yet I must frankly confess, I recollect it with a kind of satisfaction, which no one can better conceive and enjoy than him, who, recollecting the good uLteutions of a bad deed, lives to see and to correct any indecorum of his life.

But without further preliminary apologies, yet with every due respect towards this brilliant and polite circle, I hasten to a review of the most conspicuous parts of that path, which led to achievements, which some have believed, but which many still doubt. Their accomplishment once seemed to me as impossible, as that I am author of them, is now incredible to the incredulous, or wounding to the ear of more refined delicacy and taste. They are a breach in the decorum of my sex, unquestionably; and, perhaps, too unfortunately ever irreconcilable with the rigid maxims of the moralist; and a sacrifice, which, while it may seem perfectly incompatible with the requirements of virtue - and which of course must ring discord in the ear, and disgust to the bosom of sensibility and refinement, I must be content to leave to time and the most scrutinizing enquiry to disclose.

Unlettered in any scholastic school of erudition, you will not expect, on this occasion, the entertainment of the soft and captivating sounds of eloquence; but rather a naration of facts in a mode as uncouth as they are unnatural. Facts - which, though I once experienced, and of which memory has ever been painfully retentive, I cannot now make you feel, or paint to the life.

Know then, that my juvenile mind early became inquisitive to understand - not merely whether the principles, or rather the seeds of war are analagous to the genuine nature of man - not merely to know why he should forego every trait of humanity, and to assume the character of a brute; or, in plainer language, why he should march out tranquilly, or in a paroxism of rage against his fellow-man, to butcher, or be butchered? - for these, alas! were too soon horribly verified by the massacres in our streets, in the very streets which encompass this edifice - in yonder adjacent villas,* on yonder memorable eminence,* where now stand living monuments of the atrocious, the heart-distracting, mementous scenes, that followed in rapid succession !

This I am ready to afifirm, though it may be deemed unnatural in my sex, is not a demoralization of human nature. The sluices, both of the blood of freemen and of slaves, were first opened here. And those hills and vallies, once the favorite resort, both of the lover and philosopher, have been drunk with their blood ! A new subject was then opened to the most pathetic imagination, and to the rouzing of every latent spark of humanity, one should think, in the bosoms of the wolves, as well as in those of the sheep, for whose blood they were so thirsty.

But most of all, my mind became agitated with the enquiry - why a nation, separated from us by an ocean more than three thousand miles in extent, should endeavor to enforce on us plans of subjugation, the most unnatural in themselves, unjust, inhuman, in their operations, and unpractised even by the uncivilized savages of the wilderness .f* Perhaps nothing but the critical juncture of the times could have excused such a philosophical disquisition of politics in woman, notwithstanding it was a theme of universal speculation and concern to man. We indeed originated from her, as from a parent, and had, perhaps, continued to this period in subjection to her mandates, had we not discovered, that this, her romantic, avaricious and cruel disposition extended to murder, after having bound the slave!

Theatrical Address

Confirmed by this time in the justness of a defensive war on the one side, from the most aggravated one on the other - my mind ripened with my strength; and while our beds and our roses were sprinkled with the blood of indiscriminate youth, beauty, innocence and decrepit old age, I only seemed to want the lice^ise to become one of the severest avengers of the wrong.

For several years I looked on these scenes of havoc, rapacity and devastation, as one looks on a drowning man, on the conflagration of a city - where are not only centered his coffers of gold, but with them his choicest hopes, friends, companions, his all - without being able to extend the rescuing hand to either.

Wrought upon at length, you may say, by an ethusiasm and phrenzy, that could brook no control - I burst the tyrant bands, which held 7ny sex in aiue, and clandestinely, or by stealth, grasped an opportunity, which custom and the world seemed to deny, as a natural priviledge. And whilst poverty, hunger, nakedness, cold and disease had dwindled the American Armies to a handful - whilst universal terror and dismay ran through our camps, ran through our country - while even WASHINGTON himself, at their head, though like a god, stood, as it were, on a pinacle tottering over the abyss of destruction, the last prelude to our falling a wretched prey to the yawning jaws of the monster aiming to devour - not merely for the sake of gratifying a fecetious curiosity, like that of my reputed Predecessor, in her romantic excursions through the garden of bliss - did I throw off the soft habiliments of my sex,

Thus I became an actor in that important drama, with an inflexible resolution to persevere through the last scene; when we might be permitted and acknowledged to enjoy what we had so nobly declared we would possess, or lose with our lives - Freedom and Independence! - When the philosopher might resume his researches unmolested - the statesman be disembarrassed by his distracting theme of national politics - the divine find less occasion to invoke the indis^nation of heaven on the usurpers and cannibals of the inherent rights and even existence of man - when the son should again be restored to the arms of his disconsolate parent, and the lover to the bosom of her, for whom indeed he is willing to jeopard his life, and for whom alone he wishes to live!

A NEW scene, and, as it were, a new world now opened to my view; the objects of which now seemed as important, as the transition before seemed unnatural. It would, however, here be a weakness in me to mention the tear of repentence, or of that of temerity, from which the stoutest of my sex are, or ought not to be, wholly exempt on extreme emergencies, which many times involuntarily stole into my eye, and fell unheeded to the ground: And that too before I had reached the embattled field, the ramparts, which protected its internal resources - which shielded youth, beauty, and the delicacy of that sex at home, which perhaps I had forfeited in turning volunteer in their defence. Temeritis - when reflections on my former situation, and this new kind of being, were daggers more frightful, than all the implements of war - when the rustling of every leaf was an omen of danger, the whisper of each wind, a tale of woe! If then the poignancy of thought stared me thus haggardly in the face, found its way to the inmost recesses of my heart, thus forcibly, in the commencement of my career - what must I not have anticipated before its close!

The curtain is now up - a scene opens to your view; but the objects strike your attention less forcibly, and less interestingly, than they then did, not only my own eyes, but every energetic sensation of my soul. What shall I say further? Shall I not stop short, and leave to your imaginations to pourtray the tragic deeds of war? Is it not enough, that I here leave it even to unexperience to fancy the hardships, the anxieties, the danarers.even of the best life of a soldier? And were it not improper, were it not unsafe, were it not indelicate, and were I certain I should be intitled to a pardon, I would appeal to the soft bosom of my own sex to draw a parallel between the perils and sexual inconveniences of a girl in her teens, and not only in the armour, but in the capacity, at any rate, obliged to perform the duties in the field - and those who go to the camp without a masquerade, and consequently subject only to what toils and sacrifices they please : Or, will a conclusion be more natural from those who sometimes take occasion to complain by their own domestic fire-sides; but who, indeed, are at the same time in affluence, cherished in the arms of their companions, and sheltered from the storms of war by the rougher sex in arms?

Many have seen, and many can contemplate, in the field of imagination, battles and victories amidst garments rolled in blood: but it is only one of my own sex, exposed to the storm, who can conceive of my situation.

We have all heard of, many have doubtless seen, the meteor streaming through or breaking in the horizon - the terrific glare of the comet, in its approach towards, or in its declension from us, in its excentric orbit - the howling of a tempest - the electric fluid, which darts majesty and terror through the clouds - its explosion and tremendous effects! - Bostonians, and you who inhabit its environs, you who have known from experience your houses and your hills tremble from the cannonade of Charlestown, - your ears are yet wounded by the shrieks of her mangled and her distressed - your' eyes swimming in a deluge of anguish at the sight of our butchered, expiring relatives and friends; while the conflagration of the town added the last solemnity to the scene!

This idea must assimulate with the progress of this horrid delusion of war. Hence you can behold the parched soil of White-Plains drink insatiate the blood of her most peaceful and industrious proprietors - of freemen, -d^wdi oi slaves! I was there! The recollection makes me shudder! - A dislocated limb draws fresh anguish from my heart!

You may have heard the thunderings of a volcano - you may have contemplated, with astonishment and wonder, the burial of a city by its eruption. Your ears then are yet deafened from the thunderings of the invasion of York Town - your eyes dazzled, your imaginations awfully sublimed, by the fire which belched from its environs, and towered, like that from an eruption of Etna, to the clouds! Your hearts yet bleed, from every principle of humanity, at the recollection of the havoc, carnage and death that reigned there!

Three successive weeks, after a long and rapid march, found me amidst this storm. - But, happy for America, happy for Europe, perhaps for the World, when, on the delivery of Cornwallis's sword to the illustrious, the immortal WASHINGTON, or rather by his order, to the brave Limcoln, the sun of Liberty and Independence burst through a sable cloud, and his benign influence was, almost instantaneously, felt in our remotest corners! The phalanx of war was thus broken through, and the palladium of peace blossoming on its ruins.

I WILL not hence urge you to retrace with me (tranquilly you surely cannot) all the footsteps of our valient heroic Leaders through the distraction both of elements and of war. I will not even pourtray an attempt to reinforce the brave Schuyler, then on the borders of Canada; where, if the war-whoop of infernals should not strike you with dismay, the tommahawk would soon follow!

You have now but the shade of a picture; which neither time nor my abiHties will permit me to show you to the life. The haggard fiend, despair, may have stared you in the face, when giving over the pursuit of a favorite, lost child: And it is only in this torture of suspense that we can rightly conceive of its situation.

Such is my experience - not that I ever mourned the loss of a child, but that I considered myself as lost ! For, on the one hand, if I fell not a victim to the infuriate rabble of a mob, or of a war not yet fully terminated - a disclosure of my peculiar situation seemed infinitely worse than either. And if from stratagem and perseverance, I may acquire as great knowledge in every respect as I have of myself in this, my knowledge, at least of human nature, will be as complete as it is useful.

But we will now hasten from the field, from the embattled entrenchments, built for the destruction of man, from a long, desolating war, to contemplate more desirable and delightful scenes. And notwithstanding curiosity may prompt any to retrace the climax of our revolution, the means, under a smiling, superintending providence, by which we have outrode the storms of danger and distress - what heart will forget to expand with joy and gratitude, to beat in unison, at the propitious recollection.? And I enquire, what infant tongue can ever forget or cease being taught to lisp the praises of WASHINGTON, and those of that bright constellathp:atkical address. 27 tion of WORTHIES, who swell the list of Columbian fame - those, by whose martial skill and philanthropic labors, we were first led to behold, after a long and stormy night, the smiling sun of Peace burst on our benighted World! And while we drop a tear over the flowery turf of those patriots and sages, may she unrivalled enjoy and encrease her present bright sunshine of happiness! May agriculture and commerce, industry and manufactures, arts and sciences, virtue and decorum, union and harmony - those richest sources of our worth, and strongest pillars of our strength, become stationary, like fixed stars in the firmament, to flourish in her clime!

But the question again returns - What particular ijiducenient could she have thus to elope from the soft sphere of her own sex, to perform a deed of valor by way of sac rile s;e on unhalknved oround - voluntarily to face the s tor 7ns doth of clcniciits and war, in the character of

And dost thou ask what fairy hand inspired A Nymph to be with martial glory tired ? Or, what from art, or yet from nature's laws, Has join'd a Female to her country's cause? Why on great Mars's theatre she drew Her/z-w^z/^ pourtrait, though in soldier's hue?

Then ask - why Cmcinnatus left his farm ? Why science did old Plato's bosom warm? Why Hector in the Trojan war should dare? Or why should Homer trace his actions there? Why Newton in philosophy has shown? Or Charles, for solitude, has left his throne ? Why Locke in metaphysics should delight - Precisian sage, to set false reason right ? Why Albion's Sons should kindle up a war ? Why Jove or Vulcan hurried on the car ? Perhaps the same propensity you use, Has prompted her a martial course to choose. Perhaps to gain refinements where she could, This rare achievement for her country's good. Or was some hapless lover from her torn - As Emma did her valient Hammon mourn ? Else he must tell, who would this truth attain, Why one is formed for pleasure - one for pain : Or, boldly, why our Maker made us such- Why here he gives too little - there too much!

I WOULD not purposely evade a a pertinent answer; and yet I know not, at present, how to give a more particular one than has already been suggested.

and presumption, because I swerved from the accustomed flovvry paths of female delicacy, to walk upon the heroic precipice of feminine perdition! - I indeed left my morning pillow of roses, to prepare a couch of brambles for the night ; and yet I awoke from this refreshed, to gather nought but the thorns of anguish for the next night's repose - and in the precipitancy of passion, to prepare a moment for repentance at leisure!

Had all this been achieved by the rougher hand, more properly assigned to wield the sword in duty and danger in a defensive war, the most cruel in its measures, though important in its consequences ; these thorns might have been converted into wreaths of immortal glory and fame. I therefore yield every claim of honor and distinction to the hero and patriot, who met the foe in his own name ; though not with more heartfelt satisfaction, with the trophies, which were most to redound to the future grandeur and importance of the country in which he lives.

But repentance is a sweet solace to conscience, as well as the most complete atonement to the Supreme Judge of our offences: notwithstanding the tongue of malevolence and scurrility may be continually preparing its most poisonous ingredients for the punishment of a crime which has already received more than half a pardon.

Yet if even this be deemed too much of an extenuation of a breach in the modesty of \.\\^ fe77iale world - humilized and contented will I sit down inglorious, for having unfortunately performed an important part assigned for another - like a bewildered star traversing out of its accustomed orbit, whose twinkling beauty at most has become totally obscured in the presence of the sun.

But as the rays of the sun strike the eye with the greatest lustre when emerging from a thick fog, and as those actions which have for their objects the extended hand of charity to the indigent and wretched - to restore a bewildered traveller to light - and, to reform in ourselves any irregular and forlorn course of life; so, allowing myself to be one or the greatest of these, do I still hope for some claim on the indulgence and patronage of the public; as in such case I might be conscious of the approbation of my God.

I CANNOT, contentedly, quit this subject or this place, without expressing, more emphatically, my high respect and veneration for my own sex. The indulgence of this respectable circle supercedes my merit, as well as my most sanguine expectations. You receive at least in return my warmest gratitude. And though you can neither have, or perhaps need, from me the instructions of the sage, or the advice of the counsellor ; you surely will not be wholly indifferent to my most sincere declaration of friendship for that sex, for which this checkered flight of my life may have rendered me the least ornamental example; but which, neither in adversity or prosperity, could I ever learn to forget or degrade.

in virtue and in vice, that the uniformly virtuous and reformed in Hfe can derive the greatest and most salutary truths and impressions, - Who, for example, can contemplate for a moment, tho. prodigal - from the time of his revelry with harlots, to that of his eating husks with swine, and to his final return to his father - without the greatest emotion of disgust, pity and joy? And is it possible to behold the effects of the unprincipled conduct of the libertme, the bacchanalian, the debauchee, and what is more wretched of all, of the emaciated, haggard form of a modern baggage in the streets, without bringing into exercise every passion of abhorrence and commisseration? And yet, happy, those, who at the same time receive a monitor which fixes a resolve, never to embark on such a sea of perdition; where we see shipwreck of all that is enobling to the dignity of - all that is lovely and amiable in the character of woman !

I CANNOT, indeed bring the adventures, even of the worst part of my own life, as parallels with this black catalogue of crimes. But in whatever I may be thought to have been unnatural, unwise and indelicate, it is now my most fervent desire it may have a suitable impression on you - and on me, a penitent for every wrong thought and step. The rank you hold in the scale of beings is, in many respects, superior to that of man. Nurses of his growth, and invariable models of his habits, he becomes a suppliant at your shrine, emulous to please, assiduous to cherish and support, to live and to die for you! Blossoms from your very birth, you become his admiration, his joy, his eden companions in this world. - How important then is it, that these blossoms bring forth such fruit, as will best secure your own delights and felicity, and those of him, whose every enjoyment, and even his very existence, is so peculiarly interwoven with your own!

On the whole, as we readily acquiesce in the acknowledgment, that the field and the cabinet are the proper spheres assigned to our Masters and our Lords; may we, also, deserve the dignified title and encomium of Mistress and Lady, in our kitchens and in our parlours. And as an overruling providence may succeed our wishes - let us rear an offspring in every respect worthy to fill the most illustrious stations of their predecessors.

Historical Society Gatherings

April 19, 1904. At the invitation of the Canton Historical Society, some members of the Sharon Society and of the Stoughton Society joined in a Patriot's Day outing. The forenoon was spent in a walk down Billings street and East street to Rockridge cemetery, and thence to McElroy's grove near Massapoag pond. Here a lunch was served and the company then walked through Gun House street to take the electric car homeward on South Main street. Remarks were made by Eugene Tappan at the site of Gen. Benjamin Tupper's birthplace, and by Solomon Talbot at the supposed grave of Edmund Ouincy. The day was warm, but in the evening a small blizzard covered the ground with one or two inches of snow.

April 2<S, 1904. Quarterly meeting of the Society. Vice President D. Webster Pettee in the chair. Twentyfive new members joined. The by-laws were so changed as to hold the summer meeting on the Thursday of Old Home Week, and also to create the office of auditor. Annual reports were received, and the annual election of officers took place. The first publication of the Society was distributed, consisting of a pamphlet of 36 pages, entitled "Publications of the Sharon Historical Society of Sharon, Massachusetts, No. i, April, 1904."

Its leading article is "Annals of Sharon, by Jeremiah Gould, 1830." William R. Mann read a paper giving reminiscences of Sharon, 183 1- 1850. James N. Pringle read a communication to the Society from President John G. Phillips about an Italian passenger whom he met on his voyage to Europe. Tea was served at the social half hour.

April 30, 1904. The Corresponding Secretary attended, as delegate, a meeting of the Bay State Historical League at 12 Somerset street, Boston.

June 4, 1904. Several members attended the outing of the Bay State Historical League at Lexington. An address was delivered in the Unitarian Church by Prof. Hart of Harvard College. Rev. C. A. Staples escorted the assembly over the Common and to the house of the Lexington Historical Society, and explained matters of interest.

Aug. 4, 1904. Old Home Week, outing in the forenoon to Moose Hill. Forty-five persons were in the party, having 7 carriages besides a barge. An abandoned burial ground (Lothrop) was examined. At the cellar of the old Morse house, Henry F. Talbot read a description of the place, and of the Smith place on Moose Hill, w^ritten by Solomon Talbot. Leonard Billings came out on to his piazza at the foot of the hill and played on a violin manufactured by himself.

In the evening, the quarterly meeting was held in the upper Town Hall. Vice-President D. Webster Pettee in the chair. Sixteen new members joined. Resolutions were passed on the deaths of two members, Frederick L.Holbrook, who died June 1 6th, and William Oscar

Historical Society Gatherings 35

Arnold, who died July i8th. Henry F. Talbot read a description of old Sharon homesteads written by his father, Solomon Talbot. Miss Elmira S. Winship read a a paper written by her mother, Mrs. Adaliza A. (Johnson) Winship, entitled "Trip over Moose Hill Road." Both writers were in the audience. Rev. T. Frank Waters, President of the Ipswich Historical Society, delivered an address on the value of an historical society. Music was furnished by Reach's orchestra of Boston.

September 22, 1904. The ofificers of the Society called in the evening upon Vice-President Solomon Talbot, at his house on Maskwonicut Street, to congratulate him on reaching the age of ninety years. Timothy F. Quinn made an address presenting a Doulton ware pitcher marked " Solomon Talbot, 1904." On the side is a picture of a vessel sailing, and Mr. Quinn referred to Mr. Talbot's still being at the helm. Response was made by Mr. Talbot, who afterwards spoke about the ancient families of the town. Refreshments were served by the ladies of the family.

October 27, 1904. Quarterly meeting of the Society in the upper Town Hall. President John G. Phillips in the chair. Fourteen new members joined. A resolution was passed on the death of a member, Mrs. Eunice L. Gay, who died September 5th, aged 86 years, 9 months, 19 days. During the intermission, Eugene Tappan, addressed the President in a congratulatory manner on his return home with his family from a prolonged visit in Europe, at the close presenting him with a gavel made from the newel post of the staircase in the house of his birth. Mr. Phillips responded in a