Somerset Town (part 2 of 2)

George H. was one of a family of six. In addition to the common schools of Dighton had the advantage of an attendance of two or three sessions at a kind of select school in Somerset. He had the misfortune to lose both his parents early in life. He was only twelve years of age at the time of his father's death, and three years later his mother died. The elder brother, however, hired a housekeeper, took charge of the family, and thus kept them together until the several members were of an age capable of taking care of themselves. When George H. was fifteen years old he obtained employment in the Dighton Tack-Works, where he remained a few months, when he hired to work on a farm. After a year spent in this occupation he engaged with the Dighton Woolen Company, where he learned wool-sorting. He remained with this company (except an interval of about four months) until their works were destroyed by fire some three years later. During the interval above mentioned he went to West Buxton, Me., and took charge of a wool-sorting establishment. After the Dighton works were destroyed he spent a few months iu the same line of business in Stillwater and Providence, R. I.

In the autumn of 1867 he came to Norton, and took charge of the sorting for Williams & Co., who at that time were doing a small business in that line at what was known as Willis' Mills. About a year later they leased the property where Mr. Talbot's mill is now located, and which was then known as Centre Mills. In 1869, Williams & Co. sold out to Daniel S. Pratt & Co., of Boston, Mr. Talbot here purchasing his first interest in the concern, - a one-ninth share. He had entire charge of the mills, however, from June, 1868.

In January, 1870, Pratt & Co. dissolved partnership, Mr. Talbot purchasing one-third interest in the business, and Mr. Story - Pratt's former partner - the other two-thirds. In February, 1872, they purchased the grounds on which the mills are located, together with all improvements thereon. Their business had been continually increasing from the first, and about 1874 they built a large addition to their w'orks and greatly increased their facilities. About seven years later, owing to failing health, Mr. Story disposed of his two-thirds interest in the business, and Mr. Talbot being the purchaser, became sole owner and proprietor of the entire concern. In 1880 he added another three-story building to his already large works, and by putting in new machinery greatly augmenting their capacity for rapid and effective work. The business is exclusively wool-washing and job-work. Their capacity for cleansing is now one hundred thousand pounds per week. Mr. Talbot employs about forty men, and does work chiefly for Boston and New York markets. Considerable work is done, however, for various mills throughout New England. He is one of the live, progessive, enterprising men of the day, and is a specimen of a type of which Massachusetts is justly proud, - her self-made men. He married, Nov. 18, 1874, Delia M., daughter of George W. and Delia M. Storer, of Norton. They have three children,- - Walter Howard, born August 15, 1875 ; Francis Story, born March 2, 1878 ; and Alfred Pratt, born Oct. 15, 1882. Mrs. Talbot was born May 28, 1849.

Chapter Lii Somerset

Geographical - Sliawomat Purchase, 1080 - The First Meeting of Purchasers - List of First Purchasers - Early Schools - Schoolmasters - Incorporation of Somerset - The First Town-Meeting- Officers Elected - The First Representative to the General Court - Valuation and Tax- List for 1833 - Present Valuation - Somerset in 184S - Representatives - Ecclesiastical History - Society of Friends - The Fil-st Baptist Church - Methodist Episcopal Church - Methodist Ki-iscopal Church, South Somerset - The First Christian Church - The First Congregational Church - Roman Catholic Church - Military History.

Somerset is one of the western tier of towns, and is bounded as follows : On the north by Swansea and Dighton, on the east and south by Taunton River, which separates it from Berkley, Freetown, and Fall River, and on the west by Swansea. Mount Hope bay also touches it upon the south.

The territory embraced within the bounds of the ^ present town of Somerset was originally known as the " Shawomat lands," and upon the incorporation of Swansea became a portion of that town.

The original record-book of the " Shawomat Lands" is still extant, and upon its first page bears the following inscription : " This Book was Begun in y" year', 1680, By Increase Robinson, Clark for The Said purchasers."

At this meeting it was " voted, as their joint agreement, that the said lands shall be divided into thirty and one shares, whereof one of the said shares shall be laid out in a convenient place for a minister, and to be perpetually for the use of the ministry."

" It is likewise agreed that the lands lying in Taunton river from the said neck to Taunton bounds be laid out into thirty- one sliares, each share extending in length from the sd river till it crosses to the high way which is to be left between these lands and the two miles which belong to Swansey." A committee of three men were chosen to call a meeting of the proprietors, viz. : Capt. John Williams, Isaac Little, and Thomas Linkcon.

The First Purchasers of Shatvomat Lands. - In the language of Samuel Sprague, " clerk" for the purchasers, " Heare foloth y' names of y' purchars of Shawomat Neck," viz. : Richard Dwelby, Isaac Buck, Daniel Damon, Nathaniel Winslow, Samuel Prince, W. Briggs, Jr., C. Briggs, Jonathan Aldin, Capt. John Williams, Isaac Little, Edward Grey, M. Halloway, John Briggs, Richard Winslow, Thomas Linkcom, John Swift, Capt. Fuller, John McNuckley, Jonathan Jackson, Richard Pronby, Ephraim Littelle, Samuel Littelle, John Mendall, William Hatch, William Poaks, Joseph Wod, Daniel Wod (Wood?), Cornelius Briggs, Increase Robinson, Thomas Peirce, John James, Governor Winslow, and Capt. Benjamin Church."

The first meeting of the proprietors was held at Plymouth, but after the division of the land and the purchase began to be settled the business was transacted here at meetings held at the house of William Slade, who seems to have been a prominent man in the early settlement of the town. Amongother early names at Shawomat at about this period we find Sylvanus Soule, William Chase, Nathaniel Winslow, Samuel Shearman, Joshua Eddy, William Anthony, John Eddy, Thomas Hemes, John Winston, Joseph Chase, William Chase, Jr., Jonathan Slade, and others.

Early Schools. - The attention of the proprietors was early given to the advancement of the educational as well as the religious interests of the purchase, for in March, 1735, we find that " Wm. Hart, schoolmaster, was paid for boards, nails, and workmanship to repair the house on the fourscore acre lots."

** Received of the Purchasers and Proprietors full satisfaction for my Salary for about fifteen years Last past as a Schoolmaster for Shewanimock purchase only remaiuing due to me the sum of fifty one pounds sixteen shillings and eight pence old Tenor to Dec. 27 last.

In 1746 a " warrant was lawfully called to know the minds of the meeting whether a small addition to the school-house where the master lives is not needful, as many in the Purchase cannot send their great children when the school comes to their turn, and could have an opportunity of having them taught in the evenings if the school-house were convenient, which at present is not." This warrant was signed by John Peirce and Job Chase. It was subsequently voted " to build an addition with a chimney to the house." It was also voted to have a " small cellar under the same," and Mr. Hart was engaged for another year.

In 1751, William Hart was still .the " pedagogue" of the " Purchase," for at a meeting held that year it_was " put to Vote whether William Hart the School-master Should have one Hundred fifteen pounds old tenor for ye year ensuing. Voted in the nir/r/etire," Job Chase, moderator. In 1769 a new school-house had superseded the pioneer structure with a " small cellar," for in that year the purchasers' meeting was held in the " New School-House near to Cap. Robert Gibbs."

Incorporation of Somerset. - The town of Somerset was set oft' from Swansea and incorporated as a separate town Feb. 20, 1790. The following is a copy of the act of incorporation :

"An Act for incorporating that Part of the Town of Swauzey l-uotcn hy the name of Shewamet, in the County of Bristol, into a Sejmrate Town by the Nome of Somerset.

" Be it enacted by the Senate and House of liepresenlnlives in General Court ansemhledy and by the authority nf the same, That the lands hereafter described and bounded as follows, viz.: Northerly, partly on Dighton and partly on the ancient Swanzey line ; Easterly, on Taunton Great River, so-called; Southerly, on Lee's River, so-called; Westerly^ Partly ou Lee's Hiver and partly on the ancient line of Swanzey, including all the lands formerly known Shewamet Purchase, however otherwise the same may be bounded, with all the inhabitants thereon, be and hereby are incorporated into a Town by the name of Somerset, and the said town is hereby invested with all the powers, privileges, and immunities to which towns in this Comnioiiwealth are or may be entitled agreeable to the Constitution andXaws of this Commonwealth.

" And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the inhabitants of the said Town of Somerset shall pay all the arrears of taxes which have been assessed upon them, together with their proportion of all Debts now due from the Said Town of Swanzey, and so in proportion shall receive all dues and town stock w-hatsoever from the said town of Swanzey, and that all persons who were born on the said Shawamet Purchase who may hereafter become chargeable fur support and have not gained a legal settlement in any other town shall be the proper poor and charge of the said town of Somerset, and that in the apportionment of all charges between said Towns, together with the poor now at the charge of Swanzey, the same shall be divided according to their proportion in the present valtiation ; and he it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the inhabitants of the town of Somerset shall forever hereafter support and keep in good repair their pioportionable part of a bridge known by the name of Miles' Bridge in the proportion that the town of Swanzey and the town of Somerset now pay on the present valuation.

"And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that Samuel Toby, Esq., be and he hereby is Empowered to issue his warrant Directed to some principal inhabitant requiiing him to warn and give notice to the inhabitants of the said town of Somerset to assemble and meet at some suitable place in the said town, to choose all such town officers as towns are required to choose at their annual town-meetiugsin the months of March or April annually."

In accordance with the above act, Samuel Toby, justice of the peace, notified Preserved Peirce and other inhabitants to meet and elect town officers.

The First Town-Meeting was held " at the schoolhouse near Capt. Robert Gibbs," Dec. 15, 1790, wheu the following officers were chosen : Moderator, Jerathmel Bowers ; Town Clerk, Jonathan Bowers ; Selectmen, Assessors, and Overseers of the Poor, Daniel^ Wilbur, David Luther, and Theophilus Shove ; Treas- urer, Preserved Peirce; Constables, Jonathan and Aaron Baker ; Fence Viewers, Capt. Job Slead and Allen Cliase; Field Drivers, Philip Bowers and Daniel Chase, Jr. ; Hog Reaves, Peleg and Nathan Chase ; Surveyor of Timber and Plank, Thomas Marbel ; Cutter of Staves, Ezra Chase.

At the meeting, Jerathmel Bowers, Preserved Peirce, and Daniel Wilbur were chosen a committee to settle all accounts between the towns of Swansey and Somerset.

A humane spirit was early evidenced by the many votes which the early records show providing for the poor. One " Black Kate" was the subject of various votes. In 1796 two shillings were voted for a " Cooler for black cate," "six shillings for two shifts for Black Kate," " two shillings for a Pair of stockings for Black Cate," etc.

In 1801 the town voted S(5.29 for the expenses attending the burial of Edward Brayton's negro man. One of the items was " for oxen to Draw the Corps to the grave, .40."

Valuation and Tax-List, 1833. - The following is a list of assessment upon the real and personal estates of the persons herein named, each one his proportion of the sum of one thousand and three dollars and twenty-four cents. Eber Chase, Preserved Read, Gideon Chace, assessors of Somerset. Somerset, July 1, 1833.

Barber, in his " Historical Collections," published in 1848, says, " Somerset is pleasantly situated on the western side of Taunton River, opposite the town of Fall River. Previous to its incorporation, in 1790, it formed a part of Swansea, and was called the Shawamet Purchase. Taunton River, to this place, is navigable for vessels of considerable burden. This place is thirteen miles from Taunton, sixteen from Providence, and forty-five from Boston. Population, 1063. In five years preceding 1837 there were twelve vessels built; tonnage, six hundred and nineysix. This town has about twelve hundred tons of shipping, and seven potteries, where stone and earthenware are manufactured. There are four churches, - two Baptists, one Friend, and one Methodist."

For about ten years, beginning with 1849, Somerset was the scene of considerable activity in shipbuilding. The ship-yard was located on the present site of the Mount Hope Iron- Works. Several government vessels of large size were built here, the yard being under the supervision of James M. Hood.

Society of Friends. - At a Quarterly Meeting held in Rhode Island the 13th day of 8th month, 1732, Samuel Aldrich, one of the Friends appointed to inspect into the capacity and circumstance of Friends having a Monthly Meeting settled at Swansea (now Somerset), made report that he hath been among the Friends there, and find them very unanimous therein, and is of the belief that it may be of service. This meeting therefore agree that a Monthly Meeting be settled at Swansea, to be held on the first Second-day of the week in each month, and that those Friends who dwell on the northward of Tiverton, and are belonging to this Quarterly Meeting, shall be under the care of said Monthly Meeting in Swansea.

And in confirmation to the Quarterly Meeting order and settlement as aforesaid Friends have met. At our Monthly Meeting held in Swansea (now Somerset), the 6th day of 9th month, 1732, and also settled our Preparative Meeting on the fifth day befor^ the Monthly Meeting, and also appoint John Earle clerk.

At our Monthly Meeting held in Swansea the 4th of 10th month, 1732, representatives are Oliver Earle and John Earle, present, and settled a monthly collection, and appoint Oliver Earle treasureman to receive the collection as aforesaid, and the meeting collected to Oliver Earle £S Is. 9d.

The present officers in tlie church of Somerset Meeting of the Society of Friends are as follows : Obadiah Chace, minister; Joseph Estes, Eunice Estes, Sarah Slade, Darius Buffinton, Esther Chace, Charles A. Chace, elders; Darius Buffinton, Benjamin A. Chace, Maria Earle, Rtvchel P. Chace, overseers ; Albert R. Macomber, clerk of the Preparative Meeting held in Somerset ; Darius Buffinton, treasurer.

First Baptist Church.' - In the year 1796, Nathaniel Lyons came to reside in Somerset. He was a poor mechanic, but a consistent Christian and a firm believer in the doctrines of the Bible as taught by Baptists. Finding no church of that faith in Somerset, he held meetings in his own house, where he read and expounded the Scriptures and conversed and prayed with all who came. He also invited, from time to time, the neighboring ministers to his home to preach, as there was no Baptist Church within six miles. These meetings resulted in good, and were soon held in a school-house, and when no preacher could be had they were sustained by laymen. Thus gradual progress was made until it was found that some twenty believers were ready to unite in forming a Baptist Church. Before this, however, Mr. Lyons, who started the enterprise, had removed to Warren, R. I. The church was organized Nov. 8, 1803, at which time there was no other religious organization in town except the Friends. A house of worship was commenced at once and finished during 1804. Mr. Asa Pierce was the first church clerk, and Mr. William Barton the first deacon. In the deed conveying to them the lot upon which the house of worship was built their purpose was cleprly defined, as follows: "To be holden by Asa Pierce, William Barton, and Francis Bourne, and their successors forever, in trust, for the use of the First Baptist Church of Somerset, holding and believing in the doctrine of baptism by immersion only, agreeable to the principles of the churches composing the Warren Association, for a meeting-house lot." The house was dedicated Nov. 8, 1804. For some three years the church was without a pastor, yet fifteen were added to their number, and they were gradually increasing in strength and efficiency. They united with the Warren Association in 1804, and continued with them until 1815, when they withdrew, but were again received in 1821, remaining until they withdrew to unite with the Taunton Baptist Association just forming in 1836. With this Association they still remain in loving bonds.

In 1806 the church appointed Mr. William Barton, Jr. (the deacon), their preacher. For some six montlis he thus served them, when he was regularly ordained as pastor. He continued his services as pastor nearly three years. On March 4, 1809, he was dismissed to unite with the First Baptist Church in Swansea. During his pastorate fourteen were added to the church, seven were dismissed, and three excluded.

In June of the same year Mr. Bela Jacobs was ordained as pastor. Mr. Jacobs was another of the constituent members of the church. He had preached more or less for a year. He remained as pastor about two years, baptizing four and losing one by death. For some five years the church was now destitute of a pastor, yet their meetings were continued with more or less regularity, while but little encouragement was seen. During this time three were added to the church, and ten were excluded, dismissed, and died. It was a time of trial. Difficulties arose, and all their efforts to remove them were without avail. In the early part of 1816, Rev. Wm. Barton, their former pastor, came to town, and by the earnest wish of the church began again regular pastoral work among them. With his return prosperity again smiled upon them, and during his first year he was permitted to baptize twenty-six. He remained with them a little more than two years, and the changes were: Added by baptism, forty ; excluded, dismissed, and died, nine. The church now enters upon another period of discouragement and darkness, and for some five years only ten were added to the church, while twenty-two were excluded, dismissed, and died.

In 1823 they appointed Mr. Elisha Slade, still another constituent member, as preacher. He continued to preach for seven years, when he was regularly ordained as pastor, which relation he sustained for thirteen years. Mr. Slade's whole ministry, therefore, covers a period of twenty years, - years of joy and of sorrow, of hope and of fear, of prosperity and of adversity. At one time there were but four resident male members and about thirty females. But again the breezes of heaven came upon them and they were encouraged and strengthened. There were five precious revivals during this score of years. The changes in the church were : Baptized, sixty-three ; added by letter, fifteen ; dismissed, twenty-five ; excluded, twenty-four, and twenty-three died. It was during Mr. Slade's pastorate that Mr. Nathan Davis was chosen deacon. He was ordained to this service in 1838, and is still holding his office.

On the 1st of November, 1843, Rev. Benjamin C. Grafton accepted a call from the church, and entered at once upon his labors. For nearly three years he served the church, during which eight were added and eleven were dismissed, excluded, and died. In 1846 he resigned, and was followed by Rev. E. K. Fuller, who commenced his pastorate September 10th of the same year. Mr. Fuller continued as pastor for about two and one-half years, during which twenty-two were added by baptism and letters, and three were dismissed and excluded.

On March 25, 1849, Rev. Charles Randall commenced regular work as pastor, and thus served the church for three years. Although there were but few changes during his pastorate, yet he is spoken of as a faithful pastor, and his memory is cherished with interest by those who heard him. In August, 1852, Rev. J. C. Merrill having accepted a call from the church entered upon his work. His ministry proved a blessing, and was continued for nearly two years, during which there were thirty-five additions, and seven were excluded and died. For a little more than two years the church was pastorless, and though preaching was provided for most of the time, the church lost rather than gained.

On Sept. 9, 1856, Rev. Samuel J. Carr entered upon the work of pastor, and for four years remained true and faithful at his post. His was a pastorate of both pruning and fruit-bearing. Sixteen were added to the church, and sixteen were dismissed, excluded, and died. It was during this pastorate that Mr. H. E. Marble was chosen deacon. He entered upon his services in 1SS7, and still continues.

Kev. George Daland was the successor of Mr. Carr. During his pastorate of two years three were added by letter and two died. He closed his labors in 1863, and was followed by Rev. T. C. Tingley. Mr. Tingley served as pastor more than five years, receiving into the church by baptism and letter twenty-seven, and twenty-tliree were dismissed, excluded, and died.

In 1869, Rev. L. L. Fittz entered upon pastoral work. During his ministry the church was much blessed. Assisted by his father, the Rev. H. Fittz, extra nieetings were held, and a precious revival was enjoyed, bringing in many new and important helpers into the church. Fifty-two were added by baptism and letter, while but ten were dismissed and died. His pastorate continued four and one-half years, and there was a net increase of forty-two members.

Mr. Fittz was succeeded by Rev. T. M. Butler in 1874. His was a peaceful pastorate of two years, during which four were added and four died. In about two months from the time of Mr. Butler's leaving, a call was extended to Rev. Gideon Cole, who accepted, and entered upon his regular services Dec. 1, 1876. He is now in his seventh year of labor, and general, peace and harmony prevail. The changes during his pastorate thus far are : Baptized, twenty two; received by letter, seven; by experience, two; total gain, thirty-one ; dismissed, ten ; excluded, two ; and died, twelve; total loss, twenty-four ; leaving a net gain of seven.

The church has worshiped in three different houses. The first place of worship was a school-house that is now occupied as a private dwelling, the second was the present house, but for some thirteen years it was vacated, while they built and worshiped in a smaller house' on Main Street. This bouse was built during the pastorate of Rev. E. Slade, and he was the main agent in doing it. It was dedicated June 30, 1830. In 1844, during the pastorate of Rev. B. C. Grafton, the former house was refitted? and again occupied for their church home. The house built on Main Street is now used for a dwelling. Three times has the present house been dedicated, - in 1804, when first completed, in 1844, when they began anew their worship, after thoroughly renovating it, and in 1855, when again refitted under the ministry of Rev. S. J. Carr. It has also been somewhat extensively repaired and improved under the pastorates of Revs. L. L. Fittz and Gideon Cole.

The church now numbers one hundred and four. It has a good house of worship and a fine parsonage, all in thorough repair and free from debt.

The present oflicers of the church are : Gideon Cole, pastor; Nathan Davis, Henry E. Marble, deacons; F. A. Shurtleff,M.D., clerk; Deacon N. Davis, treasurer.

[Note. - Much of the material for the above history is taken from a history of the church as published in the minutes of the Taunton Baptist Association, and from a history prepared by Dr. F. A. Shurtletf, and read at its seventy-seventh anniversary. - Gideon Cole. J

The Methodist Episcopal Chuixh' in South Somerset, known historically and legally as the First Methodist Episcopal Church in Somerset, is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, church of this denomination in the county of Bristol. As early as the year 1800, Rev. Joseph Snelling, then stationed on the Warren Circuit, was invited by Mr. John Wilbour, then a citizen of the south part of the town of Somerset, to preach in his house. This invitation was accepted gladly and with characteristic promptitude. For several years prior to this the pioneer itinerants had occasionally passed through the adjoining towns of Swansea and Rehoboth on their evangelistic tours, and it is also probable that this section of Somerset had also been prospected by them in search of an opening for a preaching appointment. Mr. Wilbour had heard Mr. Snelling in Warren, R. I., and had become deeply interested in the preacher and in his message, and desirous that his neighbors also should enjoy the privilege, he opened his doors for this purpose. Thenceforward, until the erection of a house of worship, Mr. Wilbour's house continued to be the preaching-place of the circuit preachers. Soon a class, consisting of seven persons, most of wliom resided in Swansea, was organized by Mr. Snelling. It is not certainly known who these persons were, but there are good reasons for believing that James Sherman (afterwards Capt. James Sherman), Nathaniel Lewin, Diana Lewin, Sarah Lewin, Jemima Lewin, and Gardner and Israel Anthony composed this first class, the germ of the future church. Thus Somerset was included in the elastic boundaries of the Warren Circuit. James Sherman, mentioned above, was a man of mark. Inquisitive, intelligent, familiar with the theological questions then most controverted, possessed of considerable dialectic skill, well versed in the Scriptures, fluent in speech, zealous in spirit, he became a local preacher of considerable note, and was especially successful in defending the new " sect, everywhere spoken against," from the assaults of its fury, and often turned their batteries against themselves. Having never married, he became an inmate of the Sailors' Snug Harbor, Staten Island, and died, at an advanced age, in 1862.

In 1802 the church was favorably organized, and other additions were soon made to the little band. Among the most notable of these was Mr. John Brayton, the grandsireof the family of Braytons who have since become such prominent actors in the social, business, and professional life of the neighboring city of Fall River. Mr. Brayton at once became one of the most influential and useful of the members of this little flock, thoroughly identifying himself with all its interests. His means and his liberality enabled him to contribute freely for its support, and his hospitality disposed him to keep open house for the generous entertainment of the weary itinerants, who were always sure of a hearty welcome and of needed rest beneath his hospitable roof.

In 1804, it having become apparent that a house of worship was not only a necessity for the welfare of the church, but that its erection was practicable, this important enterprise was entered upon. Many friends had been raised up who, though not members of the church, were deeply interested in its prosperity. Among these were Dr. John Winslow, of Swansea, and Capt. William Read, who had retired from the sea and devoted himself to agricultural pursuits. At the northwestern extreme of his farm was a beautiful lot of land, ou the summit of the ridge overlooking Mount Hope Bay, the Taunton River, and the magnificent landscape which spread out in every direction, which he generously donated as the site of the contemplated church. Here was erected a substantial structure in the style common in those days. The house was nearly square, with a spacious projecting vestibule in two stories, the upper story conducting to the galleries, which were very deep, and occupying the two sides and front of the audience-room. The pulpit, lofty and circular, witli the chancel or altar, occupied the centre of the rear end of the church. The pews were straight-backed, high, and not constructed for the comfort of drowsy worshipers. This undertaking was successfully pushed forward to completion, and before the year ended the church was dedicated by Rev. Alexander McLane, the circuit preacher.

For forty-five years this noble monument of Christian liberality and zeal stood, one of the most prominent features in the splendid landscape, the gathering-place of the devout not only of the immediate neighborhood, but, on Quarterly Meeting and other special occasions, from the widely-extended circuit to enjoy their spiritual feasts. Here some of the notable pioneers of the denomination, men of national repute, such as Bishop Asbury, Freeborn Garretson, and others, preached the word of life to the multitudes who thronged to hear them.

Somerset was for many years one of the jjrominent societies of the ever-varying circuit, sometimes more, sometimes less extended, to which two or three preachers were usually appointed. The membership of the church was subject, from various causes, to considerable fluctuations, one hundred and sixty-one being at one time reported, but shrinking iu another report to fifty-seven. Some extensive revivals took place, which added largely to the numbers and strength of the society. At a later date this church was recognized as a charge, with a minister stationed as its pastor, which has continued to be the case, with occasional changes, to the present time.

In 1841 the Methodist Episcopal Church in Somerset village was organized, since which time South Somerset has been the name by which the old has been distinguished from the new church.

In 1840, under the pastorate of Rev. E. B. Hinckley, the old church edifice, which had so admirably served the purposes of the fathers, was torn down, and the present modern and tasteful structure was erected upon the same site, the dedicatory sermon being preached by Rev. Daniel Wise, D.D., then stationed in Fall River.

In 1861 the lot of land directly east of the church lot and adjoining it was purchased, and a pleasant and commodious parsonage was erected under the supervision of Rev. Joseph Baker, the pastor, at a cost of about sixteen hundred dollars. This gre.at improvement has rendered this a desirable rural home for pastors not aspiring to heavy city charges, but who prefer the quiet, the simplicity, and the natural charms of suburban life, joined with the pastoral work required by an intelligent and appreciative agricultural though not very numerous flock.

In 1870, Rev. E. L. Hyde being pastor, the church building was subjected to various alterations and improvements, involving an expense of about one thou^ sand dollars. It was reopened with appropriate services. Revs. E. F. Clark, of Providence, E. J. Haynes, of Fall River, and V. A. Cooper, of Providence, preaching sermons suited to the occasion. The next day, Thursday, at about half-past two p.m., during a brief but sharp thunder-storm, the house was struck with lightning, which shattered the stee|)le and the plastering, parted the links of the chain which held up the stovepipe, and in other ways inflicted serious injury to the building. The repairs rendered necessary by this .calamity subjected the society to a heavy and depressing expense. But the spirit of their pastor and the practical sympathy of sister churches encouraged them, so that they speedily placed their beautiful church home in as good condition as before.

The following is the list of pastors who have served this church in the order of their appointment, embracing those who were appointed to the circuit as well as those who have served it as a station, viz. : 1800. Joseph Snelling; 1801, John Finnegan and D. Fidler ; 1802, Reuben Hubbard, D. Morris, A. Cobb ; 180.3-4, Alexander McLane; 1805-6, J. Snelling; 1807, Joshua Crowell ; 1808-9, Levi Walker ; 1810, John Lindsay; 1811, Thomas Asbury; 1812-13, Artemas Stebbius ; 1814, Edward Hyde, W. Marsh ; 1815, Benjamin R. Hoyt, I.Walker; 1810, Richard Emery; 1817, Nathan Paine; 1818, Isaac Jamison; 1819, Isaac Banny ; 1820-21, T. W. Tucker ; 1822-23, Benjamin Hazleton ; 1824, Ebenezer Blake ; 1825, Herman Perry; 1826, C. Virgin, N. B. Spaulding; 1827-28, D. Culver; 1829, N. S. Spaulding, Robert

Methodist Episcopal Church.' - The first regular Methodist services in Somerset were held in a sailloft on Burgess' wharf in 1841 by Bryan Morse, a local preacher traveling under the presiding elder, Kev. Bartholomew Othemau. Mr. Morse held a protracted meeting, in which he was assisted by Kev. George M. Carpenter, of South Somerset, and John Livesey, local preacher, from Fall River. The result of this meeting was an extensive revival. The organization of the church soon followed, and in 1842 a church edifice was erected and dedicated by Rev. David Patten, D.D.

The first Conference appointee was Rev. Levi Daggett, who was followed, in 1844, by Rev. E. W. Stickney. Then followed the appointment of Israel Washburn, local preacher, in 1845, Rev. John W. Case in 1846, and Father Nathanial Paine in 1847-48, whose labors were quite successful. At the close of his pastorate he left a membership of forty names.

In 1851, Rev. Carlos Banning was appointed to the charge, but failing to appear, his place was supplied by Father Filmore and Samuel Jackson, under whose zealous efforts the membership was considerably increased.

From 1852 to 1859 the following appointees served the church with varied success : Revs. E. H. Hatfield, William H. Richards, John Livesey (local preacher), Franklin Gavitt, James McReading, and Edward A. Lyon. The administration of Mr. Lyon was successful and generally acceptable, and the Sunday-school reached the highest number on record, but a ruling minority objected to his reappointment, and the new Conference year brought to the front Rev. C. M. Alvord, much to the gratification of some and the annoyance of others. The consequence was a disruption and the withdrawal of twenty-one members with their families, who formed the Congregational Church in the village, leaving the Methodists with a congregation of twenty-eight members, which, however, at the close of the year numbered seventy-five, with a considerable increase of church membership.

The last of these five years the church was sufl'ering under great depression, but under the labors of Rev. H. H. Smith, who was appointed to the charge in 1870-71, she fully recovered herself.

In 1872-73, Rev. O. H. Fernald received the appointment, by whose energetic eflbrts the church edifice was rebuilt, and at the close of his work the church numbered eighty-four members.

Mr. Shurtleff remained but a short time, and was succeeded by several preachers, each remaining only a few years. Among the number were Revs. Mr. Briant, B. F. Summerhell, and John N. Haley. In 1870, Rev. C. A. Tiliinghast was called, and remained pastor nine years, during which time the church was prosperous. He was called to Broad Street Christian Church, Providence, R. I. In 1879 he was succeeded by Z. A. Past, who remained two years, when he accepted a professorship in the Suffolk Collegiate Institute in Virginia. He was followed by Rev. R. Osman Allen, the present pastor. There has been in the forty-two years an aggregate membership of two hundred and thirty, which has been depleted by deaths and removals, until now the actual membership is one hundred.

First Congregational Church.' - Most of those who at first formed the Congregational Church in this village had been members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

For a long time the Conference authorities had appointed or removed the pastor in entire disregard of, and sometimes in direct opposition to, the wish and vote of the majority of the church. The fact, well understood, was that the action of the Conference was controlled and directed by one or two men, - members of the church (Methodist Episcopal) located in Somerset. To such an extent had this manipulation been carried that many of the people felt it was time for decisive action in opposition to what was termed " one-man power." Accordingly, a remonstrance was sent to the Conference. The Con- ference paid no regard to it. The parties aggrieved felt that there was no redress to be expected from the authorities of the church. After much thought, discussion, and prayer the act of withdrawal was decided on. This was in the year 1860. Those with- I drawing were now homeless as to a place of worship. No definite plan as to the future had been determined upon, either as to the form of church government to be adopted or house of worship. If I have been correctly informed, a second Jlethodist Church was the thought in a few minds at least. The motive in withdrawing was not dislike of the church in which those separating from her had been nurtured, but the right to a vote and voice in the church that would count something in the management of church affairs.

The spirit of those who withdrew may be inferred from the following statement, which I copy from the records: " Although the seceders constituted a large majority of the church and the society, and although they had made large investment in pews, they withdrew, leaving all" with that part of the church and society which remained.

They first hired a hall named Central Hall, and fitted it up as a place of worship. They then attempted to secure a i\Iethodist preacher on their own responsibility. They soon learned that no man connected with the Conference could be induced to accept their invitation.

They therefore began to look in another direction. A minister of the Congregational order was invited to the care of this body of believers and others interested in the new enterprise. He accepted the trust, and for something over a year ministered to this people, who were all this time without church organization. In the early summer of 1861 the decision was reached to form a church of the Congregational order. It will be seen that there was nothing hast)' in the movement. It was one of very serious import not only to the parties immediately concerned, but to the community at large and to the church universal. Time to think, to deliberate, to pray was needed, and it was taken, and a decision reached.

The writer of this article was informed that a goodly number of those who at first withdrew went back to the Methodist Church when it was decided to form a Congregational Church. Possibly they had a dread of Calvinism ; possibly they thought that a house of worship must be erected, and that that would cost money ; at all events they took their departure, reducing the number about to form themselves into the new church.

The body of believers worshiping in Central Hall having determined to organize a church, and having decided what denominational name to assume, issued letters missive to neighboring churches of that name. In response to the letters missive there convened at Central Hall, July 3, 1861, the following-named churches in the person of pastors and delegates : Churches in Taunton, Berkley, Dighton, Assonet,

Kaynham, Rehoboth, and Fall River. I believe all the churches invited responded. A council was formed by the choice of Rev. E. Maltby, of Taunton, for moderator, and Rev. S. T. Fay, of Fall River, scribe. The council having examined all the papers presented, having listened to the statements of different parties, and having carefully examined the church's probable future, decided unanimously in favor of the new movement, "and voted to prdceed in the afternoon with the usual public services of recognition and organization." Twenty-two persons presented themselves, and were formed into and approved as " The First Congregational Church, Somerset."

The church and society (for there was a society acting conjointly with the church in the support of the gospel) continued to worship in Central Hall till 1865. In the mean time preliminary steps were being taken towards the erection of a church edifice. When the pressure of work and of giving began to be felt there were some who lost their enthusiasm.

Thus occurred a second reduction of the number on which must devolve the care of the new enterprise. Such is human experience. There are people in the world who are ready and willing any time to sit by your fire, to read by your light, and to eat at your table if you furnish all the money, take all the care, and do all the necessary labor. They come, not to minister, but to be ministered unto.

In March, 1865, a neat and comfortable church edifice was completed and dedicated. Seasons of adversity and seasons of prosperity have fallen to the lot of this church and society since that time. The people at times adopted a custom which proved detrimental to them as a church and society, a custom not uncommon. I refer to it here because I wish to put on permanent record my earnest protest again.st it. I refer to the plan of liaving pulpit supplies sent from Sabbath to Sabbath for six months, a year, or two years, no pastor on the ground. The man who is sent may have been virtually out of the ministry for ten or twenty years, may be in some other calling; he comes Saturday night in the last train, and goes away Monday morning in the first, and knows as much about the wants of the people as men generally know of what they know nothing. If the sermons are not heavy with age, the paper on which they are written has a color that is suggestive of antiquity, not to speak of fossils.

Churches sometimes follow this plan with the idea that it is economy to do so. It is, in fact, just the opposite of economy. The efiect generally is to weaken the power of the church in her divine work, to loosen her hold on the community, and to empty her coffers. When a pastor is called, provided the church survives the torturing ordeal, he has double work to do. Years are often required to offset the evilthusunintentionally brought upon the church of Christ. Another difficulty that must be encountered in the building of a new church enterprise in a manufacturing village is the ceaseless coining and going of different families. Sometimes it is an actual gain to have certain families go, if tliey would only stay away. In the case of other families a severe and heavy loss is suffered when they go. I speak of these matters because the Congregational Church of Somerset has had large experience in them. Her history would not be complete without a reference to them.

The number enrolled as members now on the church records is fifty-four. The two causes contributing most largely to the slow growth of the church, as it seems to me, have been alluded to, .viz., the fluctuating population and the Sabbath supply. Perhaps a third should be .added, - the many extremely (I had almost said unpardonably) short pastorates; someof tliem indeed do not deserve tlie name of pastorate.

The first preacher, Rev. Charles D. Lathrop, supplied the pulpit for a year and a very small portion of a year. He was followed by Rev. Mr. Butt, of Fall River, who supplied a short time, so short tliat no record was made of the time.

From January, 1862, to June, 1864, Rev. N. Richardson was pastor. He was succeeded by Rev. N. H. Besson, who served the church and society till April, 1865. In the same month of that year Rev. Nelson Clark began his labors in the gospel ministry among this people. He remained with them five years and three months. His work did much to strengthen and increase the church. The years of his ministry were years of prosperity. When the people permitted him to go away, they did a very unwise thing. His labors closed with this church iu July, 1871. He was followed by Rev. L. S. Coau, who remained one year only. Mr. Coan was succeeded by Rev. E. J. Geddings, who remained just as long as his predecessor. In February, 1875, Rev. W. N. T. Dean was installed as pastor of this church. His stay was short, for in July, 1876, he was dismissed, having served the church not quite a year and a half. Rev. John Dodge supplied the pulpit for three months. Rev.

The present pastor, Rev. J. C. Halliday, began work here in June, 1877. He has held the office of pastor of this clinrch nearly six years. Those years have been years of gradu.al growth, numerically, financially, and I may say spiritually. The growth has not been spasmodic, nor has it been remarkable at all, but steady. The transfer of the nail-works from East Taunton to Somerset has added a goodly number of worthy members to the congregation, and given us some good workers for the Master. But aside from that, we can tell of growth in church and society.

The Congregational Church of Somerset has struggled hard with a great many untoward circumstances, and has overcome them. She was organized with a fixed purpose, to continue to be. With God's help, and kindness shown her by other churches and societies and individuals, she has continued until this day, witnessing to small and great the power of divine grace, and seeking to say none other things than Moses and the prophets did say should come. We rejoice in a prosperous Sabbath-sphool, the happy, healthful, helpful child of the church. Home and foreign missions receive attention. The cause of temperance is not forgotten in our church work. The order of services, which gives most general satisfaction in our community, is, Sabbath-school in the A.M., beginning at half-past ten ; preaching at half-pa-st two in P.M., and conference meeting in the evening. The prospects of this church as a power for Christ were never better than they are to-day. There is harmony in her counsels and unity in her movements. No note of discord for the piist six years has reached the ears of the pastor. It is pleasant to sing, - but it is pleasanter to feel the power of the truth embodied, to feel it iu the relation of the people to each other, and in the relation of people and pastor.

St. Patrick's Church' was built eight years ago by Rev. William H. Brie, of Fall River, at a cost of about eight thousand dollars. It is a frame building, eighty-five by forty-three feet, with slate roof. Tlie first resident pastor was Rev. E. E. Nobert, who has officiated to the present time. The church has a membership of about six hundred.

Post-Office. - Previous to 1825, Mr. Isaac Pierce had cliarge of the mail for Somerset, which was left at Swansea village. In 1825, Elisha Slade was appointed postmaster, and held the office until 1853, when John A. Sayler succeeded him, who filled the office until December, 1860, when the present incumbent, Mr. N. S. Davis, was appointed.

In consequence of the loss of records by fire in 1875 the exact date when the post-office was first established cannot be given ; but for some time after Mr. Shide was appointed the mail was carried on a baggage- wagon, which made about weekly trips between Bristol, R. I., and Boston ; the pouch was then left at Nathaniel Mason's, nearly two miles from the present office, and the postmaster had to go or send some one there after it. The office now receives and sends five mails daily.

The Somerset Co-Operative Foundry Company was organized Oct. 10, 1867 ; officers elected Oct. 29, 1867, as follows: President, William M. Bartlett; Trea.surer, William P. Marble; Clerk, E. A. Davis; Foreman, R. C. Woodward ; Directors, R. C. Woodward, T. A. Marble, H. D. Spinner, E. A. Davis, John O. Babbitt, C. A. Davis, J. H. Luther, W. P. Hood, G. W. Nye, and William P. Marble. Capital stock, $15,000; capital stock now, $30,000, with sinking fund of $25,000. First year's business, $25,000,

Somerset

This company has been very successful, and has steadily increased its volume of business ; is well established, and has the reputation of producing the finest goods in the country. Par value shares, one hundred dollars ; has sold as high as one hundred and forty dollars per share; has paid an average dividend of seven and a half per cent., and accumulated a sinking fund, as stated before. Ail goods manufactured are made from patterns made and designed under their own supervision.

" In glancing westward from Fall River across the Taunton River people get a glimpse of the southern portion of the town of Somerset, which portion at this time is entirely devoted to agricultural pursuits, as, in fact, the whole town was mostly until within forty years. This town was originally a portion of the town of Swansea, and is what was known formerly as the ' Showamut Purchase.' It lies along the river mentioned, and forms its west bank for about eight miles, and is very narrow, the town being in one place only about a half a mile from the river to its western boundary, and in no part of it much more than a mile and a half wide. Atone time the principal business done in the town was at the village of ' Egypt,' so called, where quite an amount of ship-building was carried on, and it is within the memory of the oldest inhabitants when ' Egypt' was the important point of the town. But those days have gone, and the people who were most active in the business have, alas ! passed away, and now all that remains is a small cluster of houses, with nothing to remind the passerby that any activity ever existed there. About half a mile north of 'Egypt' is the village of Pottersville, so called from the fact of there being located there a pottery for the purpose of making earthen- and stoneware.

"This industry was begun njany years ago by the Chase family, and formerly a very extensive business was done there, but those who started the pottery enterprise have long since died, and finally the business has dwindled down to a small amount, comparatively speaking, of what it used to be, and the company becoming seriously embarrassed, it was sold, a little more than a year ago, to a new company, composed principally of persons from Fall River, who with an increased capital will, it is hoped, make a success of the enterprise in the future.

William Wilbor (supposed third), son of Samuel, of Boston, settled in Portsmouth, R. I., on lands of his father. It i.s uncertain whom he married, but of his nine children, Daniel, born in Portsmouth, R. I., in 1666, was the first settler of the name in Somerset, on lands purchased by his father in 1680. He was then fourteen years of age, and inherited the property upon his father's death in 1710. His wife's name was Mary Barney. They had several children, among whom was Daniel*, born March 31, 1697. He was a prominent man, and held various town offices. He married Ann Mason, and had two children, - Daniel and Elizabeth. His death occurred in June, 1759. Daniel' w.as born in Somerset, April 26, 1749. He married Mary Barnaby, of Freetown, and had children, viz.: Daniel, James, Ambrose, Elizabeth, Barnaby, Mary, William, Hanan, and Anna. All except Ambrose and Anna, who died in infancy, lived to be aged. Daniel* died March 2, 1821. His wife died Dec. 21, 1826, aged eighty-four. Daniel" was born Jan. 28, 1773, and died Feb. 24, 1844. He married Sarah, daughter of Zephaniah Sherman, of Somerset. She was born January, 1779, and died Feb. 11, 1860. They had children as follows: Ambrose B., Elizabeth (Mrs. Oliver Mason, of Bristol, R. I.I, Daniel, Jr. (died at eight years of age), Mary B. (residing with her brother Daniel), Daniel', and Sarah (deceased), all born in Somerset, Mass.

Daniel Wilbur, son of Daniel and Sarah (Sherman) Wilbur, was born Nov. 14, 1818. His advantages for an early education were such as the common schools of his neighborhood afforded. He was reared a farmer, and remained with his parents till their death. Upon the decease of his father in 1844 he came into possession of the ancestral home, which had been in the family since 1680. As a farmer he ranks among the be.st of his town.

He is a Republican in politics, though liberal or independent. In 1843 he was a member of the State Legislature, and was returned to the same body in 1879, and served on the House Committee on Prisons. While in the Senate, in 1854, he served on the Committee on Engrossed Bills, and as chairman of the Committee on Capital Punishment. In local affairs he has had much experience, having been selectman, delegate to county conventions, and chairman of townmeetings and public gatherings.

Mr. Wilbur has been twice married. First he married Nancy O., daughter of John and Raciiel (Horton) Slade, Feb. 3, 1845. They had four children, viz., Daaiel (residing in Somerset), Angelina (deceased), William B. (a resident of Wisconsin), Roswell E. (deceased). The last named died in 1876, while a student at college. We append the following beautiful tribute to his memory by a committee of the Alpha Delta Phi Society, of which he was a member :

" With sorrow do we record the death of our brother, Roswell E. Wilbur, who died at bis home in Somerset, Mass., on the 20th of September, 1876.

** He entered college in the Class of 1876, and continued as a member until the beginning of his Senior year, when the disease which finally terminated his life compelled him to relinquish the studies he had so ardently pursued. In his college course he distinguished himself by the breadth and accnr^'cy of his scholarship. He had a clear, well-balanced mind, which bespoke for him a brilliant career. ' " But, above all. do we feel compelled to speak of those graces of character which shone so clearly during bis entire college course. Pure, unselfish, kind, and considerate, he made friends of all who came in contact with him.

" We, the members of this society, who have been called to mouru the loss of his cherished classmates, Liucoln and Greene, deeply feel our great bereavement.

"To his family, bowed down with grief, we bear our warmest sympathies. May He who brightened your home so many years with so kind a brother and dutiful a son, grant you consolation in your hour of trial .

Mr. Wilbur married his second wife, Sarah E., daughter of John Mason, of Swansea, Oct. 31, 1861. She was born in Warren, R. I., in 1833. They have two children, Henry E., of Providence, R. I., and Sarah S., living at home.

Avery Parker Slade

AVERY PARKER SLADE. Avery Parker Slade is a lineal descendant from Edward Slade, the emigrant, and from William Slade, the first of the name in Somerset in 1680. (See biography of William L. Slade, of Somerset.) His greatgrandfather was Edward Slade, who had a son ]5aker, who was a farmer in Somerset. Baker married Hannah Pierce, and had nine children, one of whom was Edward, born in Somerset, Jan. 8, 1787, married Mary A., daughter of Capt. Benjamin A. Davis, of Somerset, Mass. They had four children, - (1) Mary A. (Mrs. Edward Edmonds) ; (2) Avery P. ; (3) Eliza D. (deceased), wife of Rev. Micah J. Talbot ; (4) George D., died unmarried, .January, 1863. Edward Slade was a ship-builder for more than forty years of his earlier life, but subsequently was a farmer. Politically he was a Democrat of the old school, till the Republican party was formed, in 18.J6, when he became one of its stanch defenders. He held various offices of trust in his native town during the war of 1812 to 1815, and subsequently till the close of life. He represented Somerset in the General Court from 1819 to 1830, a period of eleven year.s, during which time he served on important committees. Both Mr. and Mrs. Slade were active members of the Methodist Church. She died in September, 1868, and he died February 14, 1878.

Avery Parker Slade, named for Hon. John Avery Parker, of New Bedford, was born in Somerset, Mass., .Tune 13, 1818. He received a common-school and academic education. He began teacliing at the age of sixteen at Bristol, R. I., and his first school numbered more than seventy pupils. He continued teaching until he was married. He was taught the trade of his father, that of ship-building, and followed the same till he was some twenty-three years of age. He married, April 4, 1844, Rebecca W., daughter of Cassina and Clarissa (Walker) Shaw, and has had four children, - (1) Edward (deceased); (2) Edward second (deceased) ; (3) Nathan D., engaged in the manufacture of iron ; (4) Cassina D., a book-keeper in the First National Bank, Fall River.

April .5, 1844, Mr. Slade settled on his present farm, which has since been his home. It contains about fifty acres, which are in a fine state of cultivation. He has excellent buildings, erected by himself He is quite extensively engaged in the growing of small fruits, and has been uniformly successful. He is one of the best and most progressiv-e farmers in Somerset. In politics he is a Republican. In 1847 he, with Joseph Marble and Henry B. Parcels, held the first anti-slavery caucus in Somerset, and they nominated as their representative to the General Court Jonathan Slade, Esq., who was at home sick and unable to attend. Mr. Slade has been justice of the peace for many years, and has held various other town offices. In 186G he was elected a member of the State Bbard of Agriculture, and has continued to serve acceptably till the present time, except one term, when Judge Bennett, of Taunton, took his place. He conducts " Farmers' Institutes," and lectures in all the adjoining counties on farming, and is often called to distant counties. His views on farming and horticulture are considered authority, and his services are always in demand for institute work. He is methodical in his work, and aims to carry out his theories. He is con^ servative in his views on all the questions of the day, and is respected both at home and abroad.

During the great civil war he was enrolling oflicer for Somerset, and though exempt from military duty, yet he put into the field a substitute and paid for the same himself

Mr. and Mrs. Slade are Unitarians in religious belief, though not members of any society. Mr. Slade possesses sound judgment and keen foresight. He is very cautious, and thinks twice before he acts. He seems to enjoy life well, and is surrounded with the comforts of a pleasant, happy home.

CAPT. NATHAN DAVIS (2d). Capt. Nathan Davis (2d) was born in Freetown, Mass., Jan. 17, 1803. He is a lineal descendant in the fifth generation from William Davis, one of the early settlers of Freetown, Mass. At what date this William Davis settled in Freetown, or when he came to America, is not known to the writer of this sketch, but from data contributed to the " Historical and Genealogical Register'' by Gen. Ebenezer W. Peirce, of Freetown, we learn that William Davis (1st) was a grand juryman in 1697 ; that he married, March 1, 1()S<), Mary, daughter of William and Ann (Johnson) Makepeace, of Freetown, Mass. Ann Johnson was the granddaughter of Thomas Makepeace, of Boston. William Davis had twelve children, the fourth of whom was Jonathan-, who married Sarah Terry, and had five children, the second of whom was Jonathan', born May 26, 1736; was twice married, first to Margaret Baggs, of Freetown, March 20, 1757 ; second, to Sa:rah Treadwell, of Freetown, Jan. 16, 1772. He died Jan. 1, 1808. He had by his first wife, Margaret Baggs, a daughter, Margaret, who died young, and a son, Jonathan^, born Jan. 7, 1770.

Their children were Jonathan", Nancy'', Abby', Zephaniah S.^, Eliphatel'', Nathan\ Louisa^, Chloe", Bradley', Sarah", Harret", Russel-', Sarah'' (2d), Sybil P.', and Phebe A.* Jonathan* died.

Nathan" Davis, whose portrait accompanies this sketch, has spent the larger portion of his life on the water. His father was engaged in the coasting busine.ss, and young Nathan was early made acquainted with that business. At the early age of ten years he commenced going on the Taunton River, and after a service of seven years, in which he had become so familiar with the coasting business that he became master of the sloop "Mary" at seventeen years of age, he commanded her some five or six years. Soon after he built the sloop "Ranger," in company with Capt. Joseph Simmons, and ran her between Fall River and Taunton. After a few years he built another sloop, which he named " Temperance." A little incident in connection with the dedication of this sloop is worthy of a place here, as it rears to his memory a monument more worthy and more enduring than i granite or marble. It was customary in those days when a sloop, bark, or vessel of any kind was being dedicated to the purpose for which she was built to break a bottle of rum over her bow, but Capt. Davis departed from this time-honored custom and ventured

\ the experiment of breaking a bottle of pure water over the bow of his sloop. He would have the entire service in h.armony with the name she bore. This was probably the first sloop or vessel of any kind built in this country and dedicated to commerce in the name of temperance. Capt. Davis was one of the pioneer temperance men of this section, and has ever been a consistent advocate of that cause. It is a remarkable fact well worthy of mention that Capt. Davis and his five sons have each commanded the sloop "Temperance," and she has proven to be one of the most profitable sloops that ever sailed.

ness till 1873, when he retired. From 1845 to 1855 he was engaged in the grocery business in Somerset, Mass. He became a member of the First Baptist Church in Somerset in the prime of life, and in 1838 he was ordained deacon, which position he continues still to hold. He has also been trustee of the same for a great many years. Politically, he is a Republican.

He married Clarissa, daughter of John Bowen, of Fall Elver, Jan. 1, 182(5. Their children are: (1) Sarah A., wife of William P. Hood, of Somerset; (2) Nathan S., postmaster in Somerset since I860; (3) William B., died young; (4) Elijah G., a citizen of Fall River, and captain of a steamer on the Old Colony Line; (5) Mary E., wife of John A. Chase, of Fairhaven ; (6) Amos N., lost at sea, March 20, 1867 ; (7) Joseph F., died young; (8) Joseph F.', master of vessels, and one of Somerset's most respected citizens ; (9) Ellen M., died young; (10) William H. H., died young; (11) Jonathan B., died young; (12) Clarissa E., wife of James F. Gardiner, of Somerset; (13) Cornelius A., master of schooner " William P. Hood," and a highly-esteemed citizen of Somerset; and (14) Keziah M., wife of Edward Mosher, of Fall River. Mrs. Davis was born in 1811. In cases of need she was always ready to assist, and having reared a large family herself she was peculiarly well qualified to care for the sick. She was one of the strongest temperance persons in the town, and much credit is due her for the position the town took on that question during her lifetime. She died March 27, 1871, in the sixtyfirst year of her age. She was a faithful wife and devoted mother, and the impress of her Christian character may be seen to-day, not only on her own children, but upon all those with whom she came in contact.

Job M. Leonard

Job M. Leonard was born in Raynham, Bristol County, Mass., Sept. 1, 1824, and is a direct descendant of one of the Leonard families from Wales, who settled in Raynham in 1652.

He was educated at the common schools, and worked on a farm until about sixteen years of age; then he entered a hardware-store in Taunton as clerk and remained until 1844, when he commenced business on his own account. In 1849 he established an office in Boston, which has continued to the present time.

In 1850, Mr. Leonard organized the East Bridgewater Iron Company and continued with them about five years, when he disposed of his intere.st in that establishment and organized, in 1855, the Mount Hope Iron- Works at Somerset. He planned and built the two iron-works in that town for the manufacture of nails and plate iron. The old works were sold to the Parker Mills in 1868, and subsequently passed into the hands of the Old Colony Iron Company. The present works of the Mount Hope Company Mr. Leonard erected in 1872, and employs from two hundred to two hundred and fifty men. LTpon the organization of the company Albert Field was. elected president, and remained as such until his death. Mr. Leonard has been treasurer of the company since its organization. His son, Mr. Henry B. Leonard, is now the agent and general manager of the new Mount Hope works.

The iron business seems to have been an heirloom in the Leonard family. From 1652, when the first iron-works on thi.s continent were established in Raynham by James and Henry Leonard and Ralph Russell, to the present time descendants of the Leonards have been prominent and successful iron men both in this and other States. Not only were Mr. Leonard's father. Job Leonard, and his grandfather, Samuel, iron manufacturers, but his great-grandfather. Russell Leonard, was also engaged in the same industry, embracing, with Mr. Leonard and his son Henry B.,.five generations in direct descent who have been engaged in the iron industry.

James and Henry Leonard and Ralph Russell established the first iron-works on this continent in 1652, in the town of Raynham, on Two-Mile River, so called, where they secured the privilege of cutting wood to make charcoal, and to dig and mine ore at Two-Mile Meadows or any other common property of the town. This business continued in the possession of the Leonards and their descendants for over one hundred years. They were enlarged from time to time, and subsequently converted into a forge for making anchors. Henry and James Leonard, attracted by more abundant ores in New Jersey, removed there and established the first iron- works in that province.

Mr. Leonard has been four times elected to the State Legislature, and has held various minor positions of trust in the State, always discharging his duties with credit to himself and to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, and is justly regarded as one of the leading men of Southeastern Massachusetts.

Darius Buffinton

Darius Buffinton was born in Swansea, Mass., May 29, 1829. His father was Moses Buflinton, who was born Jan. 25, 1799, on the island of Prudence, R. I., and was a son of Moses Bufiinton, born 1768, who married Sarah Chace, and whose parents were Moses Bufiinton and his wife, Isabel, daughter of Daniel and Sarah Baker.

Moses Bufiinton, the third of the name, was a farmer, and lived first in Prudence, R. I, and afterwards in Swansea, Mass. He was a birthright member of the society of Friends, and married Ruth Borden, "wBo was born in Swansea, Jan. 25, 1795. They had five children - Abner (died young), Darius, Abner (deceased), Lois (Mrs. John P. Slade), and

Darius was educated at common schools, and had a short tuition at the Friends' school at Providence, R. I. He became a farmer and resided with his father on the homestead, in Swansea, consisting of about seventy acres, and remained there until his father's death. In 1870 he built liis present neat and attractive residence on the place of seventeen acres, which he purchased in Somerset, and removed thither the same year. He married, Jan. 15, 1861, Julia A., daughter of Frederick and Sarah (Pierce) Whitwell, who was born in Fall River, Mass., March 25, 1843. Their children were Julia E. (died an infant), William S. (died young), and Henry W., an active and promising lad, drowned in his twelfth year while bathing.

Mr. Buffinton has combined the avocation of marketgardener with that of farmer, and has sufficient property to enable him to gratify the correct taste so nicely shown in everything connected with his home. He is a stockholder in Fall River National and Union Banks of Fall River, and also in the Shove Mills. He is a Republican, and both he and his wife are members of the Friends' Society. He stands well in the esteem of the community and is a valuable citizen.

Source changes here: from A History of Bristol County, Massachusetts (Vol. 2), by Hutt, Frank Wolcott, published 1924; 1,787 words in this source stream.

Somerset Town

Again, one finds in Somerset, an eastern river town of the county, one of those old New England settlements whose division was brought about from a mother township, Swansea. Distances seemed longer then, the modes of conveyance being of slow progress; and the petition of the townsmen at Shawomet to the effect that that part of the town along the river be set off from Swansea was evidently made, in part at least, for the purpose of saving extensive traveling to town centre and meeting over those high hills, or by water. The petition for the new town, that was made November 2, 1720, was voted down in town meeting; and again four years afterwards, the petition was rejected. But eventually, Shawomet (and there are many spellings of the Indian name) became the separate town of Somerset, February 20, 1790. On December 15 that year, the first town meeting was held at the schoolhouse near Captain Robert Gibbs' and the first town clerk was Jonathan Bowers.

Massasoit, some years before his death, had granted the Plymouth people the privilege of establishing a trading house on the river at "Storehouse Point" as it was called, within the limits of the present town of Somerset. Originally the territory was known as the Shawomet lands, all of which became a part of Swansea when the latter town was _ incorporated, the first record book of whose purchase is extant as it was kept by Increase Robinson, the clerk. The first purchasers of this section of the county were as follows: Richard Dwelly, Isaac Buck, Daniel Damon, Nathaniel Winslow, Samuel Prince, W. Briggs, Jr., C. Briggs, Jonathan Aldin, Captain John Williams, Isaac Little, Edward Grey, M. Halloway, John Briggs, Richard Winslow, Thomas Lincoln, John Swift, Captain Fuller, John McNuckley, Jonathan Jackson, Richard Pronby, Ephraim Little, Samuel Little, John Mendall, William Hatch, William Poaks, Joseph Wod, Daniel Wod, Cornelius Briggs, Increase Robinson, Thomas Peirce, John James, Governor Winslow, Captain Benjamin Church.

The estimated population of the town of Somerset in 1922 was 3,650, and the number of dwelling houses was 884. The valuation of real estate at the time was $2,469,250; of personal estate $523,383, the total being $2,992,633. 'The town clerk and treasurer was G. Walter Simmons; selectmen, Franklin S. Simmons, Fernald L. Hanson, Adam W. Gifford.

The town's patriotism has stood the test both in war and peace. There were 115 men from here in Civil War service. The town sent 156 men to the World War service, and gave generously for all demands in Red Cross and all other drives. Welcome Home Day, August 28, 1919, presented an extensive programme, with the unveiling of the honor roll.

Schools and Churches. - The first schoolmaster made note of in this part of the county was William Hart, who is first mentioned in March, 1735, and who was teacher here for twenty years. The estimated expenses for the maintenance of Somerset's schools for 1923 was $48,200, the total number attending school being 998. An evening high school for non-English-speaking men was started in February, 1922. A school nurse and a resident school physician were employed that year. The schools in the town are: High school, Elm street, Dublin primary, North primary, Pottersville grammar and primary, Sherman Somerset grammar, South grammar and primary, and Wilbur. Horace Freeman Bates is school superintendent.

Friends or Quakers, were found settled in this town, then a part of Swansea, in the early part of the seventeenth century, but with no meetinghouse. A report was made of that fact before the quarterly meeting in Rhode Island in 1732, and as a result, that year the first meeting was held at the present Somerset. Their meetinghouse is the oldest in this section, the meetings having been held continuously to the present. Rev. Frank E. Jones is the minister.

The first of the Baptist arrivals within the present Somerset was Nathaniel Lyons, who came here in 1796. First of the Baptist meetings were held at the homes of the townsmen and in schoolhouses, but eventually a church of that denomination was organized November 8, 1803, and a meetinghouse was completed in 1804 and dedicated November 8 that year. This Baptist meeting united with the Warren Association in 1804, but in 1836 they withdrew and joined the Taunton Association that had just formed as a Baptist association of churches. The first preacher was Rev. William 3arton. He was succeeded by the following-named: Revs. Elisha Slade, 1823; Benjamin C. Grafton, 1843; Charles Randall, 1849; J. C. Merrill, 1852; Samuel J. Carr, 1856; George Daland, 1860; T. C. Tingley, 1863; L. L. Fittz, 1869; T. M. Butler, 1874; Gideon Cole, 1876. Rev. William Pease began his pastorate at the Baptist church in May, 1884; Rev. D. L. Crafts, January 1, 1887; Rev. Albert D. Spaulding, April 1, 1889-92; Rev. Joseph R. Verry, March, 1893-97; Rev. T. O. Harlow, August 1, 1887-December 31, 1900; Fred W. Webb, February 25, 1900-July 13, 1902; Fred W. Buis, 1902-03; H. Schuyler Foster, 1903-07; Edward L. Krumreig, 1907-10; George Keirsted, 1910-12; Rev. Charles Wheeler, July 28, 1912; Rev. B. Scott, 1915; BenjaminW. Riner, chaplain in World War, 1919; Arthur Eastman, 1921; Kdward A. Mason.

The pioneer Methodist preacher to this section was Rey. Joseph Snelling, and he organized the first Methodist class here at the home of his friend, John Wilbour. In 1804 the first Methodist place of worship in South Somerset was dedicated by Rev. Alexander McLane, a house that did service for this people for forty-five years. In 1849, the old edifice was torn down, while Rev. . B. Hinckley was the pastor, and the present church building was erected and dedicated. In 1861 the parsonage was built. This church was burned in 1889, and a new building erected that year. The Methodist church in the centre of Somerset was organized in 1841, and in 1842 a church edifice was erected and dedicated.

formed a Congregational church, their first place of worship being in Central Hall. Twenty-two persons presented themselves at a meeting of prominent clergymen, July 3, 1861, and formed the First Congregational Church, South Somerset, and in March, 1865, their church was dedicated. The first minister was Rev. Charles D. Lathrop.

St. Patrick's Catholic Church was begun here in the early seventies, and the church was built in 1875, the first pastor being Rev. Father William H. Bric. Rev. Father William F. Sullivan was the pastor in 1923.

A Portuguese Baptist church was organized in 1910. The Congregational and the Baptist churches federated in 1912, and the M. E. Church joined that federation in 1922. Their denominational and missionary interests are separate, but their general treasury and their clerical activities are one. Rev. E. A. Mason was the pastor in 1923.

Through the influence of Mrs. Abby Morrill, president of the Old Colony Branch of the Woman's Board of Missions, a parish and community house was recently established in the town on School street.

Miscellaneous. - The Library building was built in 1910, the gift of Mrs. Sarah A. Hood, through her son, Alfred H. Hood. The librarians have been Miss F. B. Wood and Miss Ella Roberts. Before the present building was erected, the library was kept in the building now occupied by Sonion's Market.

The patriotic and fraternal organizations are as follows: Cyrus M. Wheaton Post, G. A. R., organized October 16, 1885; Cyrus M. Wheaton W.R. C., No. 131; and a camp of the Sons of Veterans. Warren S. Hathaway Post of the American Legion, of which Samuel W. Gibbs was commander in 1923, was named in honor of a soldier who was a Quaker, but who gave his life for the service, in France.

The Masons are represented by Pioneer Lodge, A. F. and A. M., and Star of Bethlehem Lodge, Order of the Eastern Star. The cornerstone of the Masonic building was laid in 1923. Elysian Lodge, No. 73, I. O. O. F., was organized in 1886. Herbert EF. Goff was noble grand in 1923. Somerset grange was organized in 1888, with forty charter members. There were seventy members in 1923. Daniel P. Shove was the master; Louis A. Davis, secretary.

For a long period of years, Somerset was one of the principal shipping ports on the Taunton river, when many men were employed in the business of loading and unloading cargoes of coal and other commodities, the quantity at one time amounting to hundreds of tons annually. For ten years or so, beginning with the year 1849, ship-building was one of the town's leading industries, the main shipyard of the community being situated on the site of the old iron works, where, among others, several large government vessels were built.

The Somerset Iron Works Company, with William S. Ferguson as agent and treasurer, was organized in 1853, for the manufacture of ship anchors, etc., but after running for two years the enterprise came to an end. Albert Field and J. M. Leonard purchased the property in 1855, and began the business known as the Mount Hope Iron Works Company, with its rolling mill and nail factory. This proved a successful venture up to the year 1866, when nearly the entire plant was destroyed by fire. But about a year afterwards, the buildings were rebuilt, and the mill was greatly improved. In 1871 the firm sold out to the Parker Mills of Wareham, this State, the business being conducted with much success to the year 1878. Again, in 1881, the Old Colony Iron Company took charge of the plant, and ran the works for a number of years, employing about 500 men. The New England Shellac Works now owns this property.

The Boston Stove Foundry, organized for the manufacture of stoves and hollow-ware, located here in 1854. Financially, this company did not prove a success. In October, 1867, the Somerset Co-operative Stove Foundry was formed, with a capital of $15,000, soon afterwards increased to $30,000. They manufactured ranges, cooking, parlor and office stoves. A few years ago they went out of business. At Pottersville, members of the Chase family many years ago began the business of making earthen and stoneware pottery. The Somerset Pottery Company was organized there in 1847. The business went into other hands in 1882, and is not now active.

The Montaup Electric Company was organized in 1923, by interests controlling the Edison Electric Illuminating Company of Brockton, the Fall River Electric Company and the Blackstone Valley Gas and Electric Company, to enable these three companies to erect and maintain a large electric plant at Somerset, to supply electricity to them at lower rates and in larger quantities than could be provided in their own plants, the cost of the proposed plant to be in the neighborhood of $7,000,000.