Spencer Town (part 1 of 2)

Spencer Town

died August 7, 1860 ; Wilder D., born April 19, 1866. The latter having completed a course of study in the American Veterinary College, at New York, received his degree in 1887, and is now practicing as a veterinarian in Woonsocket, R. I.

Chapter Lxxxv Spencer

History whex a Part of Leicester. - As Spencer was originally a part of the town of Leicester, its early history would be incomplete without speaking briefly of the mother township, from its purchase until the separation between it and Leicester took place. In the latter part of the seventeenth century certain gentlemen, known as "proprietors," purchased large tracts of land within what is now Worcester County, to settle " plantations " thereon, and it is reasonable to suppose, as a speculative venture also. These purchases were made upon conditions that a "certain number of families, within a certain number of years, shall there be located, and a sufticieut quantity of land thereof shall be reserved for the Gospel ministry and a school." In this manner, and upon like conditions, was purchased a " tract of land, eight miles square, lying near the new town of the English, called Worcester, to be called Leicester and to belong to the County of Middlesex." The deed of this tract was from the heirs of Oraskaso, "sachem of a place called Tontaid," and was dated the twenty-si.xth day of January, Anno Domini one thousand six hundred and eightysix.

This, then, was the first step taken towards settling this wilderness, and the history of Spencer must necessarily date from this purchase, although it was fifty years or more before the division was had which made it a separate and distinct town.

For more than a quarter of a century there was nothing to encourage the "proprietors" to go forward, settle and develop the tract, as the depredations by the Indians in the surrounding towns were of such serious nature that a postponement of the project seemed the only alternative. A few years previous to this purchase, King Philip and his warriors were raiding the territory in this immediate vicinity, murdering the inhabitants, laying waste the towns or causing them to be abandoned, through great fear; and since these incursions were more or less frequent until 1713, it remained a wilderness up to this date, without a "single white inhabitant."

At the conclusion of peace, in 1713, another and successful attempt was made to put the original plans into execution. Inasmuch as the "proprietors" had not been able to fulfil their part of the contract, viz., to settle the number of families in the time required according to conditions imposed by the General Court, their right to proceed further without permission from the said General Court had lapsed. Accordingly, as early as possible after this period, application was made to this body for carrying into eftect the spirit and letter of the first-named agreement, and consent obtained. This they did by a petition, praying a "confirmation of the said tract to them and their associates," and their prayer was granted upon conditions similar to those made in the previous contract.

An early meeting of these gentlemen was called to enter into and consummate arrangements for settling a part of this grant, and it was decided that the East half should be used for this purpose, while the West half should be retained by the " proprietors." Thus, early in the history of the town, the two sections came to be known as the East, or settlers' half, which is now Leicester, and the West, or proprietors' half, now Spencer.

A survey was made of the East half, house-lots were laid out and inducements to settlers were offered similar to those in other localities, viz.: that one shilling an acre, a nominal price, should be charged, "provided the purchaser should agree to settle a family thereon within three years from the date of purchase." As a further inducement, every houselot should be supplemented with an additional one hundred acres in some other part of the town, for every ten acres of house-lot. Thus, by paying forty shillings, the purchaser became possessor of four hundred and forty acres of land. These lots were made accessible by public highways, running north and south, east and west, abutting upon each. Lots were also set apart for the Gospel ministry and school purposes agreeable to the original contract. With fair prospects now of a more lasting peace between settlers and Indians, the proprietors again indulged the hope of locating a settlement here that might yet rival, in population and business enterprise, many of the older towns in the county.

Yet, a decade passed before the number of families necessary to the carrying out of the original conditions were located, but within twenty-five years from the planting of the first habitation " the town had increased rapidly in population and wealth." The entire interest of the proprietors now being transferred to the West half, early preparations were made by them for further development of these lands and favorable inducements offered to settlers for this purpose. They caused a survey to be made of the tract, dividing it into eighty lots of two hundred and fifty acres each, and two of these lots were set apart for ministerial and school purposes. They also entered into an agreement with the purchasers, that "as soon as twenty-five families were settled within the limits of the said eighty lots, the proprie- tors, as an encouragement to the settlement of religion among them, will advance and give the sum of forty pounds towards building a meetinghouse."

First Skttlers. - Later these original lots were sub-divided, and the first one of them sold was in 1717, to Nathaniel Wood, containing one hundred acres, and was situated near the Brookfield line, on the old County Road. Up to 1725 but two other lots had been sold to families who had located thereon, viz., to Samuel Bemis and John Graton. The land of the former adjoined that of Nathaniel Wood, while that of the latter was situated in the southeast part of the plat or near the "Styles reservoir," now so called.

The process of settling this half was a slow one, and as late as 1740 it contained i)robably not more than one hundred and fifty inhabitants. For more than twenty years these sturdy pioneers struggled manfully against poverty and want without complaint in regard to their condition, but there was a growing feeling that they had been neglected, on the part of the town authorities in repeatedly refusing to grant them " roads for their better accommodation." Both church and school were located in the east half, and although they contributed_by tax towards their support, yet, practically, they were deprived the benefit of them. The records show that when they asked that " roads might be laid out, at the just expense of both parts of the town, so that the inhabitants might get to meeting,'' the request was not only refused, but was "regarded as an injustice." The need of roads appeared to be a constant source of grievance to these people, and up to 1736 little or nothing had been done in this direction to relieve their pressing wants. Under these circumstances the minister and highway tax had become burdensome to them, and it is not surprising; perhaps, that they should early seek some measure, or measures, that would, sooner or later, relieve them from such an embarrassing position. At this time the town was about to settle a minister and provide for his support; therefore a tax of one penny per acre was laid upon all the lands of the proprietors and individual settlers. This act was so unsatisfactory to the people of the west half that they forwarded a petition to the General Court, asking that they might be exempt from paying this tax " unle-s their proportion might be applied towards the support of preaching among themselves." The House of Representatives was inclined to grant the request, but the Council opposed the petition, alleging an "error in directing the petition, &c.," which was in all probability a pretext only, as upon this and other subsequent occasions they too plainly indicated that they had little or no sympathy in common with the people. The petitioners had entertained strong hopes that this request would be favorably considered by the proper authorities, and that, ere long, the difficulties in regard to both meeting and minister would be obviated. In this they were disappointed. But the dawn of a brighter day aw dted them, for closely following this event the proprietors came to their assistance with pecuniary aid and a Mr. Cunningham donated them land for a meeting-house and other ])urpo8es, which in time was erected, and by these gifts they early came into possession of a place of worship and minister.

Now that this institution had become a fixed fact for this part of the town, and consequently a centre around which a settlement might sooner or later develop, it was not a surprise to the people of the "settlers' part" that a division of the town should be seriously agitated. Whatever might have been said by the people of the west half about distance from the church or school or bad or no roads, their objective point was undoubtedly that they be "set off" into a new town. The first move in this direction was in 1741, when a petition was presented to the town, in town-meeting, asking that they be made a separate and distinct town, and there seemed to be no objection to granting this request. Stimulated by this success, a petition was now prepared and forwarded to the General Court, asking that a legal division might be had, and a bill favorable to the petitioners passed both Houses, but when it came to the Governor - Shirley - for his signature he refused it. This action was disappointing to both sections, as each had now come to feel that the interests of the whole would be best subserved by a separation. With this feeling now dominant, it is singular that so important a matter should be allowed to rest, but for nearly three years following there is no record showing to the contrary, and the supposition is that no further action was taken during this period. But early in 174.3 the subject was again agitated with renewed enthusiasm. It was then decided that a committee of both proprietors and settlers request of Governor Shirley a personal interview "that they might lay their case before him in a more friendly way," and induce him, if possible, " to reconsider his recent decision." But their efl^brts were fruitless, and Hij Excellency could not be induced to change his former opinion, much less consent to any measure or bill to form a new and distinct town. At this juncture, in his judgment, it was not politic to do so. This action of the Governor's towards these people was a very unpopular one for hira, and did much to strengthen the feeling of dislike that was taking root in their hearts for royalty, whether in Governor or subordinates.

It was thought that further effort looking towards separation must be abandoned for a time until a new expedient presented itself, which, if successful, might be made an entering wedge in the near future for more satisfactory results. It was that application be made to the (ieneral Court to be created into a precinct, as this would give them an ecclesiastical government at least, independent of the east half. Accordingly, on the 31st day of May, 1744, Mr. James Ormes was chosen to present a petition to this body, representing " that the difficulties which moved him to apply, that they should be a distinct township, do still subsist, and may in a great measure be removed by their being made a precinct." In this they were successful, and an act of incorporation, as such, was granted the 18th of June following.

Precinct. - In compliance a warrant was issued, calling a meeting of the " Freeholders and other Inhabitants of the Precinct, or Parish, Qualified by Law to vote in Town affairs, which as yet has never been had," and on the 10th of September, 1744, the following precinct officers were chosen, viz.: Jonathan Lamb, moderator ; John Stebbings, clerk ; Samuel Bemis, John Newhall and James Willson, assessors; David Adams, collector; David Allen, treasurer; Samuel Bemis, John Cunningham, Jonathan Laml), John Stebbings and James Willson, committee for calling precinct meetings. From this date and until April 12, 1753, all calls for parish meetings were dated " Leicester West Parish," etc.

The advantage derived by this new order was to give them the liberty of action in parish matters, as they could now choose officers to regulate their church affairs, but in all things else they were subject to the town, as heretofore.

The perplexing question of better roads was yet a matter of serious consideration, and five years after the above proceedings an earnest appeal was made to the selectmen "to lay out suitable roads for their accommodation," and while this request was not now considered unreasonable, inasmuch as the town had expended considerable money for the same purpose in the East half, yet they were not disposed to grant the request. Further appeals to the town authorities were regarded useless, but still believing their claims to these improvements to be valid, they resolved to take their case before the Court of Sessions for adjudication. They, therefore, petitioned this body, asking " that they cause certain roads to be laid out." The selectmen were cited to appear and " show cause why this request should not be granted," and the town chose a committee of citizens to appear with the selectmen in support of their position. The case, however, did not reach the court, as before the day appointed for a hearing a compromise had been arranged between the parties, the result of which was that before the close of the year eleven of the muchneeded roads were laid out and constructed. This was very satisfactory, as the roads contributed largely to the comfort and convenience of the West Parish, but the feeling still existed that the differences between the two sections were again liable to arise under the same regime, and that the proper remedy, under the circumstances, would be found in a division of the town. This view of the matter was now entertained by the East Parish, and they not only gave their consent to a dissolution, but expressed a desire to unite with the West Parish and work harmoniously together to accomplish that jiurpose. Accordingly, on the 22d of November, 1749, the following petition was presented to Acting Governor Phipps, viz.:

Petition to the Itonorable Spencer Pbipps, Lieut. Governor, by the siiliacribere, a committee of the town of Leicester, stating that the inhabitants of the westerly part of said town have built a meeting-house, and settled a minister, and stating further, that about Eight years ago, moved to tlie town of fjeiceeter to be set off and made a distinct town, which was readily granted, whereupon application was made to the court, about three years afterwards, for the same, but instead of being made a town, was made a Precinct only, which was very grievous to both, nor had the town any opportunity given them to offer any reasons to the Honorable Court to the contrary, although they have many to give, and one was that the west partcalled upon the selectmen of Leicester to lay out roads for them, upon the joint expense of both parts of the town, so that the inhabitants of the west part might get to meeting, Ac. They further state that when the hinds of the easterly part were laid out, sufficient land was appropriated for roads, but when the west part was divided, it was laid out into lots, and no land left fur roads, and now the east part was called upon to be at their proportion of the expense, which tliey considered unjust. That the inhabitants of the west part preferred a complaint to the court of sessions, for a committee to lay out roads for their accommodation. They therefore pray the Court to erect the west part of Leicester into a distinct and separate town, &c.

The matter was now pressed upon the General Court by the people of both sections, and as a result, this body, as it had done on two former occasions, passed a bill in compliance with the request as set forth in the petition, but again His Excellency vetoed it, giving as his reasons for doing so, that he would not consent to this or any other bill " unless provision be made that the number of representatives be not thereby increased, or a clause suspending the execution of the act until His Majesties pleasure shall be known thereon, be inserted in the said act." This shallow message exasperated the House, as the only conclusion to be reached by them was, that their combined judgment in this matter was entitled to little or no weight by him, or that he had not manliness enough to assert the authority vested in him until lie should first learn "His Majesties pleasure" thereupon.

This position of the Governor did not, however, change the sentiment of the House in relation to the equity of the prayer of the petitioners, and they at once addressed a communication to him setting forth their views in regard to the relations of His Majesty to his subjects, also stating that " the number of Representatives the town of Leicester, by charter and laws of the Province, are entitled to is not enlarged by this bill," and in closing, they " flatter themselves that your Honor will give his consent.'' But His Excellency was immovable, and this appeal had no effect. This, and the previous experience of the people in this direction, taught them that the House of Representatives was the only branch of the government that had a common feeling with them, and this was accounted for because it was made up of the people, and for the people, and they could better appreciate their condition and necessities. Notwithstanding this last attempt resulted in failure, they were not discouraged, as the cause for which they were laboring was as vital to them now as ever, and there was no good reason why they should, at this time, retreat from the position taken. They did, however, allow it to rest for tliree years, at the end of which time it was renewed with their old-time energy- A parish meeting was called March 6, 1753, and a committee, consisting of Benjamin Johnson, Lieutenant John White and Deacon John Worster, was chosen to again petition the General Court to be incorporated as a separate town. The action of the House of Representatives, on this occasion, was endorsed by the Council, but again the result was a failure for want of His Excellency's signature, although an act was finally passed, which received his consent, erecting the precinct into a separate and distinct district, to be known as Spencer, " with all the powers, privileges and immunities that towns in the Province may enjoy, that of sending a Representative to the General Assembly only excepted," but giving the said district " full liberty and right to join with the town of Leicester in choosing a representative," they paying their proportional part of the expense of the same. This, then, was another step secured towards the one great object and aim of these people, yet it did not, by this act, dissolve entirely the relations existing between Leicester and Spencer. There were other districts in the province, similarly situated, subject to the same restraints, etc., which remained in force until 1775, at which time they were removed. In 1780 tlie ''right" of representation was guaranteed under the Constitution.

Town Origin. - The birth of the town then, really, dates from this act, - although by it, it did not attain the full dignity of a township, owing to the terms imposed. By this act one Thomas Steel, Esq., was "empowered to issue his warrant, directed to some principal of said district, requiring him to notify and warn the inhabitants of said district to meet at such time and place as shall be therein set forth, to choose all such officers as shall be necessary to manage the affairs of said district." In accordance with this authority, in him vested, he issued his warrant to Captain Benjamin Johnson, and a meeting for the above purpose was called, at which the- following officers were elected, as directed by the law, viz. : Captain Benjamin Johnson, moderator; Captain Benjamin Johnson, town clerk ; Deacon John Worster, John Cunningham, John Muzzy, Deacon James Willson and Captain Benjamin Johnson, selectmen ; Captain Benjamin Johnson, treasurer; Samuel Bemis and James Ormes, constables ; the selectmen were voted assessors ; Ensign John Stebbings, Samuel Garfield, John Prouty, Caleb Bridges and Robert Griffin, highway surveyors on the north side of the county road; Jacob Stoddard, Jonathan Lamb and David Adams, highway surveyors on the south side of the county road ; James Richardson, highway surveyor on the county road ; Joshua Draper and Benjamin Woodard, hogreeves ; Deacon John Worster and Thomas Bridges, fence-viewers; Israel Holton, sealer of leather ; Lieutenant John White, sealer of weights and measures ; John Draper and Jacob Stoddard, tythingmen. One of the first acts passed by the district was to " allow Lieut. John White the sum of £2 ISs. 4d. for his services in going to the Grate and General Corte in order to git us to be a District."

The town was never made such by any special act of incorporation, but it became one, virtually, by an act of August 23, 1775, which made all places, incorporated originally by the name of districts, "towns, to every intent and purpose whatsoever." Agriculture was the only occupation known to these people, at this early period, and the cutting away of the forests, sowing and gathering the fruits of the ground, were the only sources of revenue with which to meet the wants of the family and various taxes. The plow, hoe and other like implements assisted largely in supplying the scanty food, while the spinningwheel and loom, with industrious hands to guide them, furnished the family clothing " fit for mill or meeting." The district at this date, 1753, numbered about five hundred inhabitants.

Location. - The town lies south of the centre of the county, and about midway between the eastern and western boundaries. On the north are the towns of Oakham and Paxton, on the east Paxton and Leicester, on the south Charlton, and on the west Brookfield and North Brookfield. It is quite regular in shape, forming nearly a parallelogram, being about eight miles long by about four miles wide, and containing thirty-two square miles, more or less, or rising twenty thousand acres.

Situation. - It is pleasantly situated upon the "Great Post Road," running from Worcester to Springfield, twelve miles from the former and thirtysix miles from the latter. Its villages, aside from the main or central one, are Hillsville, northwest; Upper and Lower Wire Villages, northeast; and South Spencer, southwest.

POMDS, Rkskrvoirs anp STREAMS. - It is fairly well watered by ponds, reservoirs and small streams. Among the latter, the principal one, known as Seven Mile River, enters the town at its north boundary, and, emerging from the Browning Pond, takes a southwesterly course through the town. It is swollen to a river of moderate dimensions before reaching Podunk Pond, in the town of Brookfield, and thence its waters pass into Long Island Sound, by way of the Connecticut River. In addition to the water it receives from its main supply, it is fed by numerous small brooks, and a principal tributary called Turkey Hill Brook.

This stream enters the town at its northeast corner, its source being Turkey Hill Pond, lying in Paxton and Rutland. It runs in a southwesterly course, and makes a junction with the Seven Mile River near the old " Daniel AVniitteniore " place, so- called. A small stream which takes its rise in Shaw Pond, Leicester, connects with the Turkey Hill Brook near the main mill of the Spencer Wire Company, upon which stream the extensive works of this company are situated, the same being about two and a quarter miles northeast from the post-office.

Another small stream passes through the centre of the village, and connects with the Seven Mile River at the " Great Meadows," its source being Whitteraore, or Moose Pond. A tributary from the south is Cranberry Meadow Brook, which rises in Cranberry Meadow, and flows north, through " Howes Pond," connecting with it a quarter of a mile north of the South Spencer Station, on the Boston and Albany Railroad. The streams, or brooks, in the southeast part of the town iiow in this direction, and eventually reach the Blackstone River, which runs to Narragansett Bay. Although most of these streams are unimportant, yet in "ye olden tyme " they furnished the power for various small mills and factories located upon them, for grinding grains, manufacturing powder, wire, hoes, scythes, etc.

The principal body of water (natural pond) within its borders is the Whittemore or Moose Pond. It is situated in the centre of the township, and covers about eighty acres of land, is very pure and wholesome water, being fed almost entirely by springs, and yields in the winter a harvest of excellent ice for summer consumption. In winter, also, it is a fine sporting field for persons of piscatorial habits, as it contains hard, luscious pickerel, that sustain a wide reputation. Brooks and Browning Ponds, lying on the north, are quite large bodies of water, but they are principally in the towns of Oakham and North Brookfield. There are two large reservoirs - one the "Sugden," lying wholly in Spencer, and situated near the Upper Wire Village, and the other the "Styles," situated at the southeast corner of the town, and lying one-half in Spencer and one-half in Leicester. Cranberry Meadow and Burntcoat Ponds cover over a considerable territory, the former lying between Spencer and Charlton, and the latter three-fourths in Leicester. The other ponds, or small reservoirs, contain water enough to make them an important auxiliary to steam, and are made fairly remunerative when used in this connection.

Soil. - The soil, when properly cultivated, yields abundant crops of grass, grains, potatoes, &c., and compares favorably with the average farming lands of the county.

Surface. - The surface is very irregular, but not abrupt, is diversified by hills and valleys, some of the hills forming the highest points of land between Springfield and Worcester, on the line of the Boston & Albany Railroad, and are very symmetrical in form. They overlook a large extent of country to the north, west and south, and from the summit of some of them the eye takes in an extended sweep of country, dotted with houses, ponds, streams, valleys, other hills and

Geological. - The geological formation of the town consist? mostly of gneiss rock; mica and chlorite slate are found, and the rock is generally unfit for building purposes. The highest ledges retain a horizontal position, while in the low river bottoms they are tilted about one-third, showing that the disturbing force has been a sinking, rather than an uplifting one. Trap prevails to some extent in the north part; the boulders correspond with the native ledges, and scratches of glaciers are found.

The Village. - The village spreads out over a very uneven surface. The original streets are crooked and narrow, but in the more modern portions they are laid out with more regularity, wider and more convenient for travel and business.

Railroads. - The railroad accommodations are limited to one line, viz. - the Boston and Albany, which is located two and one-quarter miles from the business centre, the station being at South Spencer. This was a long distance to transport the large number of passengers and amount of freight laid down at this depot, and numerous coaches and heavy teams were constantly employed for this purpose. In 1870 a route was surveyed from the Boston and Albany Railroad at South Spencer to the central part of the village, and in 1872, at a town-meeting, the town was called upon to subscribe to the capital stock in a railroad to connect these two points ; but at this meeting it was voted " to pass over the article." Various surveys were now made, covering this and other routes, but the matter was not brought before the town again until April 7, 1877, when the article was again passed over. Several more meetings were held for this purpose, but with like results, until, at a meeting April 3, 1878, the town voted to subscribe to two hundred and fifty shares (twenty-five thousand dollars) of the capital stock in said road, which action caused the road to be forthwith constructed, greatly to the relief of the increasing traffic and to the convenience and comfort of the traveling public.

Meeting-Houses. - CongregaHonalista. - The Jint care of the settlers here, as elsewhere, was to arrange for such shelter as would meet the wants of their families ; then, as they invariably carried .their religion with them, it became their next duty to provide for a metting-house and minister, that their spiritual wants might be properly cared for. April 2, 1739, Samuel Bemis and John Stebbiugs were chosen a committee by the settlers of the west half to proceed to Boston for the purpose of meeting the proprietors, then and there, "to come into some arrangement about the building of a meeting-house and having the gospel preached to them." At the meeting held for the purpose it was voted " to lay a tax of three pence per acre on their lands the following year, and two pence per acre for the next two years, to assist the settlers in building a good, substantial meeting-house, forty- five foot in length and thirty-five foot in width, and towards the minister's support." As a further assurance that the undertaking should be a success, Nathaniel Cunningham, of Cambridge, donated to them by deed, February 26, 1740, two acres of land " for the accommodation of a meeting-house, a training-field and such other public uses as the town shall direct, forever." In all probability they were about erecting this house in the year 1743, although the records do not indicate that such was the case, as on the 30th of November of that year it is recorded that the proprietors held a meeting at which a report of the parties who contracted for the building of the same was considered by them. That the house was occupied when in a very crude condition, the records, further on, give conclusive evidence. It was covered with rough, unplaned boards, having a ground floor and loose flooring for the galleries, the inner walls unfinished, the interior lighted by a few small windows, the glass set in leaden sash. Yet. notwithstanding it was a rude and uninviting structure, it afforded the inhabitants shelter from the sun and storm, and furnished them an altar around which they could gather for religious worship and instruction.

It became necessary now to make some arrangements for seats, or pews, and on the 7th of November, 1744, a meeting of the inhabitants was called, "to see if they would come into any method in order to build the body of seets," and also " to see what method they will come into to dispose of the pews." The " body of seets " was located in the centre of the house, on either side of the centre aisle. The wallseats, on the west side of the house, were for the elderly men without pews and those on the east side for the elderly women without pews. The galleries were for the younger people and the sexes were separated in the same manner as below. At the last meeting a " comity " was chosen to build the "body of seets" and to " mark out. Dignify and set a prize on the pew spots." This work having been completed, the following plan was adopted for disposing of the "spots," viz. : "The man that shall be highest in valuation of real-estate shall have the first choice, and the next in succession until the pews are all taken up." According to this plan Samuel Bemis was entitled to the first choice, and it was voted that " he have the Pew Spot on the Rite hand side of the Coming in of the South Doore, prize £5 Os. Orf. ; Left. Jonathan Lamb shall have the Pew Spot on the easte end of the polpet ajoining thereunto, prize £4 Os. Od." And so on until twelve spots had been assigned and located. The sum of two pounds was the lowest price paid.

One year later the sura of £25 was voted " to defray the charges of building a polpet. Deacon's sect, body of seets and ministerial pew." For nearly five years the "doors" had been without proper fastenings, and on the 28th of March, 1748, a committee of three, viz. : Lieutenant White, Deacon Worster and Daniel

From this time until March 2, 1767, the subject of finishing the building had Ijeen discussed and voted upon at nearl)' every district meeting held, and small sums of money appropriated to finish or improve some part of the same, and at a meeting held this day it was voted to raise the sum of £50, "to finish the meeting-house decently." This sum, however, was never raised, but four years later, or at a meeting held February 13, 1771, it was decided to build a new house, the size of which should be fifty-six feet in length and forty-seven in width, " and upon the spot where the old one now stands." After the usual preliminaries had been arranged and details decided upon, as far as possible, the contract was awarded to Daniel Baldwin, " to build it in a proper manner," for the sum of seven hundred pounds, he taking the old building as part pay. As he declined to take the responsibility of raising the new one, the selectmen were m.ade a committee to attend to it, with authority to expend an amount which had been appropriated for that purpose, and in their report to the town they certify that it was expended for " Liquor, ropes and other things." The house contained sixty-eight pews, forty-six being located on the floor and twenty -two in the galleries, and the same system was adopted for disposing of them as in the previous house. The appraised value of these pews was fixed at five hundred pounds. In 1801 a tower and cupola were added to the house, and three hundred dollars was voted for that purpose. This improvement suggested a bell, and the sum of $426.87 was secured by private subscription for one, and in town-meeting it was voted " that the names of the generous subscribers be entered upon the town records."

Up to 1821 no means had been provided for warming the meeting-house, but this year it was decided to introduce stoves, " under the inspection of the selectmen." For two years their experience with this " innovation " was not wholly satisfactory, because of the propensity of these stoves to smoke, and a committee of three was accordingly appointed " to take into consideration the subject of stove-pipe, or funnel, in the meeting-house ... to remedy their smoking." This committee attended to their duty and recommended alterations " at the outlet by carrying the funnels out at the east and west windows."

In 1838 this meeting-house was repaired by turning a quarter around and fronting it to the south, with new inside finish, new pews, etc., making it to conform, .as nearly as possible, " to the meeting-house recently fitted up in Paxton." It was completed and dedicated on the 14th of November of this year. May 1, 1843, during a high wind, the spire of this church was blown oft', and passing down through the roof, damaged the ceiling and interior to some extent. On the 1st of January, 1862, it was entirely destroyed present.'' To frame a Constitution for a great State, under these circumstances, they felt to be a matter of grave import, and, in their judgment, the people should be allowed more time for its consideration.

Prices of Commodities. - Prices of all commodities were high, a depreciated currency was the only available money, and people were put to their wits' ends to meet their obligations, and trade generally was in a demoralized condition. Early in 1777 the General Court sought to remedy one feature of this evil, viz., the exceeding high prices, and an act to prevent monopoly and oppression '' was passed by that body. A committee for the purpose, together with the selectmen of the towns and districts, wtre required to fix prices upon agricultural laborand products ; also upon all goods, wares and merchandise necessary to the support of the people, or in use in the various trades. The following are some of the prices " fixed " for the tow n of Spencer, viz. : "Farming labor not to exceed 3s. per day ; a day's work for a yoke of oxen Is. 6rf. ; wheat 6s. per bushel ; corn 3s. ; rye 4s.; beef 20^. per pound; shoes 3s. per pair; meal of victuals 9(i. ; West India rum 8s. 2(/.' per gallon ; New England rum 5s.; W. I. flip lid. per mug; N. E. flip 9rf., etc." This scheme, however, was not a success.

A Credit Measure. - During the years which immediately followed the Revolution the people here, as everywhere else among the colonies, were greatly crippled financially, and it required the united wisdom and watchfulness of the General Court to de- Tise means and measures for the best interests of the people and for bolstering up the currency and credit of the country.

Near the close of the year 1777 an act passed the House and Council calling in the State's money or bills of credit and putting the same on interest, which act appeared to be an oppressive one, and the inhabitants of this town instructed their representatives to " use every effort in their power to procure a repeal of the said act, as they considered it injurious to the poorer sort of people." A still further objection was, that " it would become payable about the same time that a large amount of the Continental money would be called in " The act, however, was not repealed, and, at a meeting December 29th, they proceeded to arrange for their proportion of the " called money," and voted "that £991, 17s. be assessed upon the Polls, Real and Personal, Estates of the inhabitants, for the purpose of paying the town's proportion of Four Hundred Thousand Pounds, which is now called in by way of Loan." This assessment represented about thirteen hundred dollars in hard money, and was a burdensome tax for the people to meet at this time.

Articles of Confederation. - January 5^ 1778, a meeting was called to hear read the "articles of Confederation for a perpetual union between the United States of America," and a committee was chosen for the purpose of examining said articles.

This committee reported that " we find them to be, according to our best judgment, a well-concerted plan for the rule of government for the United States of America," and without further comment it was voted that "the representative be, and he is hereby directed to give his consent in the General Court to authorize the delegates of the State to ratify and confirm the said articles of confederation." At a meeting called May 4th, following, to hear the form of government proposed for Massachusetts Bay, a committee was chosen, consisting of Joshua Barton, Oliver Seagerand Elijah Howe, to consider the same. Their report was unfavorable, and, after a long debate, the question was put, "whether, or not, the town would approve of the Constitution," and it passed in the negative, one hundred and two voting against it, and none voting for it. They also sent to the General Court a remonstrance against adopting the instrument, and, from the tone of their "long debate," their reasons, in sustaining their vote, were, in substance, that the fundamental principles, in such a form of government, should originate with the people, through their delegates in convention for the purpose, as such a method was more in harmony with the great principles that underlie a free government, and eminently more democratic ; and then, that the doings of such a convention be submitted to the people for their acceptance or rejiction.

Aid to Soldiers and their Families. - AII though at this time the people were absorbed in discussing matters of state, as they understood them, they were not unmindful of the wants of the soldiers in the field, or their dependants at home. At this meeting aid was voted to their families, and a supply of shoes, stockings and shirts was forwarded to the soldiers in the camp or field.

Early in 1778 nine men enlisted into the army for nine months, and each received, as bounty, a note of thirty pounds, given by the selectmen, and on the 8th of June, of the same year, the town voted the selectmen authority to draw the sum of two hundred and ten pounds and interest from the treasury " to pay the said notes when they shall become due."

In 1779 six soldiers were furnished to go to Rhode Island, and eighty-four pounds in bounties was voted them for this service, and at the same time sixty pounds was voted to " provide for the families of the soldiers who are in the public service.''

Returned Tories. - The spirit of self-sacrifice that actuated these people was a noble one, and during the years of anxiety and hardship through which they had already passed their deliberations were marked by an earnest regard for the welfare of the country and their posterity. Actuated by this ardent love of country, they demanded that cowards in it be disgraced or otherwise punished, and traitors to it hanged.

ton, by resolutions, in regard " to certain Inimical persons Lately Returned into the State." .January 21, 1770, resolves were offered in town-meeting, the third of which read as follows, viz. :

IieiioIve{1, Tlmt we will, to the utmost ut" our power, aid and assist the j ciTil magistrate in tlie execution of all laws made fur the purpose of exfludinjj all such hntefid creatures from among ns.

The persons referred to were Tories, or Loyalists, as they styled themselves, who fled the country at the commencement of the Revolution, but were now appearing again in Boston and other towns in the State, and their presence was as obnoxious now as at the commcncementof thetroubles with Great Britain, to which country they preferred to give their allegiance. Although their appearance again was so dista-teful, the magnanimity of the people, after the conclusion of peace, not only allowed their return to their homes, but even invited it, and they freely forgave them the heinous sin of disloyalty.

More Soldiers and E(}uaijzing Expense. - During the year 1779 the energies of these people were severely taxed in devising ways for furnishing men to fill up the army, and raising money and material for the support of the same. On the 21st of June the sum of five thousand four hundred pounds was voted to pay for the services of seven men hired for the Continental Army, four for Rhode Lsland and others for guard over prisoners in the barracks at Rutland. This year a committee was chosen " to see if the burdens caused by the expense of the war'' could be equalized, and each made to bear his proportion of the cost; but after giving the matter careful consideration, it was found "that it was very difficult to do each person justice, and we omitted to proceed on sd business."

Instructions to Representative. - On the 7th of August following. Deacon John Muzzy was chosen representative, and instructed "to have particular regard for the United States, the Stale and his constituency, to support the credit of the currency, and not to give his consent to any act for making up the sink of money between debtors and creditors, either public or private, soldiers and officers of the Continental Army excepted."

Prices Regulated. - August 17th, Major Asa Baldwin was chosen delegate to a convention to be held at Concord on the first Wednesday in October, to take into consideration, among other matters, the regulating of prices of the necessaries of life. The following is a partial list of prices, established by the convention, and they indicate the condition ef the currency at that period, viz.: Corn, S14 per bushel rye, $7 ; wheat, $27 ; oats, |6; hay, $5 per hundred; labor, 19 per day ; beef, 92 cents per pound ; butter, $1.83; cheese, 92 cents; men's shoes, $20 per pair; stockings, $12, etc.

Condition of Money. - The condition of the -finances was growing worse daily, and at the beginning of 1780 one dollar in currency was valued at about one-sixtieth of a hard dollar. This situation pressed so heavily upon the people, that many were obliged to ask an abatement of their taxes for this and the past year.

The Constitution. - On the 27th of May, of this year, they were called upon to consider a new Constitution for the government of the Commonwealth, and after earnest discussion, with the exception of one article, the whole document received the unanimous approval of the town. The exception was to article two of the third section of chapter one, relating to the House, of Representatives. In their judgment the small plantation4 were deprived of representation, and "they should be allowed to join two or more of them together, in choosing one or more representatives." This was, in substance, an amendment unanimously agreed upon by them, and language similar was, later on, made a part of the Constitution.

Governor. - In the autumn of this year the town cast its first vote for Governor, and .John Hancock received the whole number of votes cast, viz : sixtynine. The first representative under this new legime was John Bisco, Esq.

During this and the two succeeding years the town responded to the calls for more men for the army, raised money for bounties and other purposes, cared for the families of the soldiers and forwarded requisitions of beef and other supplies to headquarters. The appropriations for 1780, for war and kindred expenses, were : July 11th, £19,000 to pay for services of six and three-months' soldiers; October 12th, £48,-156 for the same purpose ; £3,565 for horses purch.ased ; and £12,000 for beef supplies, aggregating nearly £90,000, or about $4,000 in coin.

Watchful. - In 1780 the General Court passed an act for repealing, or "taking of the new emissions of money," and the people of Spencer thought this to be a " notorious Breach of y° Public faith and a grand Reflection on y* Continental Congress," and they forwarded a remonstrance and petition to that body, asking for the immediate repeal of said act, requesting, at the same time, that the " vote be taken by yea and nay, and published, that the good people of the Commonwealth may have a Greater Opportunity to Guard against Enemies of the Glorious cause of America." They watched closely the doings of the General Court, condemning that which seemed oppressive or unjust, and commending when they felt that the people would be benefited thereby.

In 1781 they were passing through the severest crisis of their existence, the heavy war debt causing burdensome taxes, the resources of the country nearly exhausted, and the Continental money almost worthless. Nothing could procure the men and materials called for but hard money, and the town was in great danger of having executions levied upon it for deficiencies in men and beef. June 20th the sum of £416 hard money was raised for supplies of men and beef, and a committee of three, viz. : John Bisco, Lieutenant John Muzzy and Lieutenant John Worster, were chosen to procure the same. All transactions were now made upon a hard money basis. Spencer filled her last quota in March, 1782, the war being now virtually over; still there were men in the field to be cared for, as it was not yet considered safe to disband the army.

Grievance. - The following five years was a period full of grievances and, sad to relate, of misguided judgment. In the winter of 1781-82 the General Court passed the Valuation and Excise Acts, and the town, upon their consideration, freely expressed their disapprobation of them in a remonstrance as being "unjust and oppressive, and an Infringement on y" National Rights of mankind.'' That part relating to the valuation they characterized as "unjust and unreasonable as Nebuchadnezzar's demanding of his magicians an interpretation of his untold Dream," and they demanded that both be repealed.

April 9, 1782, a meeting was held at Worcester to take into consideration " the many grievances of the good people of this commonwealth," and Isaac Jenks was sent as delegate from the town. On the 16th of May following he was elected representative, and a long list of instructions, suggested by the recent convention, were given him, of which the following is but a fractional part, viz. : " that it shall be unlawful for the Creditor to sue, until the Debtor be notified ; that all state securities, whether notes or certificates, be made Lawful tenders ; that all goods or estates, taken on execution, be appraised to the Creditor, &c., &c."

In 1785 the people were in a most " Distressing and Disagreeable" condition. No cash was to be had; stock and produce, though they had it, would not pay debts, unless sold at too great sacrifice, and they asked the General Court to relieve them, by making paper money pass equal to silver or gold, or real and personal estates a tender in discharge of debts. But this they could not do. The town was now deficient in its taxes, executions had been served upon it for their payment, and they were obliged to pawn their State securities to satisfy these demands. These securities were, however, subsequently redeemed.

On the 26th of June, 1786, a convention was called at Leicester to see if means could be devised which would bring " relief for grievances, done one way or other, occasioned by. the scarcity of the Circulating Medium," and John Sumner was chosen delegate.

Grievances were now, with common consent, the order of the day ; but Spencer was not alone aff'ected by this malady. Other towns and plantations in the State bear record of the same disease, contracted under the same infiuences. Business was at a standstill, while the State and Continental debts were enormous, and the people were called upon, by way of taxation, until their patience was well-nigh exhausted. Property was seized for debt ; people were thrown into jails, and great distress prevailed here and throughout the Commonwealth. High salaries of public officers, fees of lawyers and sherifi's and costs of courts, when compared with their own scanty means of subsistence, and, added to these, their own jealousy towards those officials and courts, were, according to their reasoning, sufficient grounds for complaint, and for a resort to force, if need be. Their animus was especially directed to the courts, and they demanded that they be abolished, as " their existence was a burdensome exjjense." This, and the nursing of the feelings which led to it, were but the wild vagaries of the communistic ideas, better known to the present age than to the people of those times.

Shays' Reeelliox. - It was this condition of the social atmosphere that led to the inglorious Shays' Rebellion, which " began with high-sounding trumpets at Worcester, about the 3d of December, 1786, and vanished like a mist on the hills of Princeton," not far from a month later. Some of the good people of Spencer took part in this unfortunate fracas, among whom were found commissioned officers of the militia. At its close they were temporarily disqualified, and ordered to renew their allegiance to the government, which they humbly did. One Abijah Livermore and six confederates broke into the town magazine and took away the stock of powder, balls, etc., but soon after the insurrection was stamped out, he, with three others, made a written confession to the inhabitants of Spencer, in which they " craved the assistance to live to the Honor of the town and the Glory of God in all our future conduct."

Henry Gale was one of the leaders in this revolt, and after his capture was sentenced to death for high treason. The people of Spencer interested themselves in his behalf, and forwarded a petition to His Excellency, Governor Hancock, asking that he might be pardoned, " as he appears to be very Penitent and Humble for his very wicked crime." He was brought to the g:illows for execution, but was there reprieved and afterwards pardoned.

Committees of Cokrespondence. - The Committees of Correspondence, during and after the war, were: - in 1774, John Cunningham, Oliver Watson, Asa Baldwin; in 1775, Oliver Watson, Moses Livermore, John Muzzy; in 1776 and 1777, Asa Baldwin, Jeremiah Whittemore, Joshua Draper, David Prouty, Knight Sprague, Benjamin Gleason ; in 1778, Joshua Lamb, John Muzzy, Joshua Bemis, John Worster, John Watson; in 1779, James Livermore, Benjamin Gleason, John Worster, John Muzzy, Jacob Upham ; 1780, John Muzzy, Johnson Lynde, John Sumner, Benjamin Bemis, Jonas Muzzy ; in 1781, John Sumner, Jonas Muzzy, Johnson Lynde, Jeremiah Whittemore, Nathaniel T. Loring ; in 1782, Asa Baldwin, Jeremiah Whittemore, Captain Ezz'kiel Newton; in 1788, James Hathaway, Jonas Muzzy, Isaac Morgan.

the military spirit of this town wjs aroused, as in days of yore, and men and means were furnished without stint or grudging, in the grand effort made for the preservation of the Union. The echo of the first gun fired on Sumter, and the clash of arms in the streets of Baltimore, had scarcely died away before the heroic spirit of the people of Spencer showed itself, with but one feeling of sentiment and purpose, viz. : that the government should be sustained at all hazards in this hour of her need. From this moment until the closing scenes at Petersburg the citizens never faltered in their duty to the Union cause ; and the courage and bravery of the men sent out were honorable' alike to the town as her citizens and to themselves as soldier.^. Before the first call of the President for seventy-five thousand soldiers, men were volunteering into the service of the government, and the .sound of the fife and dram resounded through the streets, calling them - not to a holiday festival, as was their wont, but to the stern realities of a bloody war.

On the 2;)th of April, 1861, a town-meeting was called, " to see what measures the town would take to furnish outfits and uniforms for a company of volunteers about to be organized for the service of the government." At this meeting the selectmen and assessors were made a " Committee of Safety," and their duty was to "supervise, expend and lay out such a sum of money, not exceeding ij.5000, as may be necessary," paying the members of the company "seventy-five cents for each one-half day they drill during the next thirty days." The.se men were at first placed under the military instruction of Col. Alonzo Temple, of Spencer, a militia officer of the old school, but later on Capt. J. M. Studley, of Worcester, became their drill-master, and their time was now occupied in becoming familiar with the manrouvres of the soldier in camp or field. When the time for their service should arrive, the town stipulated that they should be paid a further sum of ten dollars per month, in addition to their government pay. This company left town for camp at Springfield, arriving there .June 20th, and on the 21st were mustered into the service of the United Sta'es for the term of three years. It numbered fifty-one men, and formed parts of Companies F, G, H and K, of the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment.

At the above-named meeting a committee of eleven citizens was chosen for recruiting purposes, and the ladies were invited to procure a flag for the volunteer company. The Committee of Safety were also ordered to purchase a flag, to be erected on the town-house." This committee, according to instructions, purchased the uniforms for the company in training. For these, together with a flag and staff, and the drilling of the volunteers, they expended the sum of .12463.75. One of their important duties was the care of the soldiers' families, and this they attended to most carefully and conscientiously.

At a town-meeting held July 19th, measures were discussed for offering bounties, and it was decideil to pay the sum of $100 each " for thirty-two persons who shall enlist into the service of the United States at such a time as the committee of safety shall prescribe," and a further sum of .f 50 each " to all who remain in the service more than one year," and an additional sum of |5 "to all who shall enlist to-day." This number was the town's quota under the President's call. May 29, 1862, for 300,000 troops, to serve for the term of three years, or until the end of the war. On the 4th of August fellowing, another call was issued for 300,000 men to serve for nine months, and in response to this a town-meeting was held, to make provisions for their quota under it, and a bounty of SlOO was voted to each volunteer, together with aid to the families of nil such.

At an adjourned meeting, held September 11, 1862, eleven persons were chosen to notify the enrolled militia to meet at the town-house for medical examination, preparatory to a draft, "if one is found necessary." On the 17th of October, 1863, a call came for 34 men more, and on the 25th of February following, an additional one for 25 men. In the meantime a draft had taken place, and by it 28 men were secured, either by voluntary enlistment, furni-hing substitutes or paying a commutation fee of $300. This number was further increased by ten soldiers reenlisting and 49 new recruits, and the town now had a surplus of 23 men, which could be applied on future calls. August 20, 1864, a meeting was held to arrange for 39 soldiers to fill the quota of the town, under the last call of the President, and a bounty of $125 was ottered to such as would enlist. December 24th the selectmen were authorized "to procure all the soldiers that, in their judgment, they think the town will need." April 26, 1866, the town refunded the sura of $5955 to such of the enrolled militia as had previously subscribed to the war expense account.

lilany of the soldiers, at the expiration of their long or short terms of service, having a desire to witness the closing scenes of this gigantic Rebellion, re-enlisted "for the war," with an enthusiasm all the more earnest for the hardships they had endured or dangers encountered in behalf of the cau<e. Spencer furnished 319 men for the war, which was a surplus of 32 over and above all demands, among whom, at its close, were eight commissioned officers.

The first regiment forwarded to the seat of war, in which were Spencer soldiers, was the Tenth Massachusetts, and they were engaged in the battles of Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, Malvern Hill, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station, Wilderness, Spottsylvania Court-House, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, &c. The Fifteenth Regiment contained five men from Spencer, who went into camp June 28, 1861, and were under fire the first time at Ball's Bluff, October 21, 1861. This body of troops went into the engage- ment with six hundred and fifteen men and came out with only three hundred and eleven fit for duty. The Twenty-first contained twenty-six Spencer men, and went into camp July 19, 1861, on the agricultural grounds, Worcester, and they reached Annapolis, Md., on the 29th of August following, and on the 6th of July, 1862, embarked in the Burnside expedition to North Carolina and took part in the battles of Roanoke Island, having fifty-seven men killed and wounded. In one year the regiment had lost one hundred and thirty men, in killed, disabled by wounds, prisoners and discharged. At the expiration of their term of service all but twenty-four men re-enlisted for a term of three years, and nearly all the Spencer soldiers returned with there-enlisted. Besides Roanoke Island, they were engaged in the battles of Newbern, Camden, second Bull Run, Chantilly, South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Wilderness Spottsylvania and Petersburg. The Twenty-fifth, with nine Spencer men, followed the Twenty-first on the 7th upon the same expedition, and their lo.ssat Roanoke Island was six killed and 42 wounded. It was also in the engagements at Xewbern, Port Walthall Station, Arrowsfield Church, Drury's Blufl, Cold Harbor, Point of Rocks, &c.

The Thirty-fourth went into camp June 3, 1862, with forty-three Spencer soldiers. Their first year's experience was garrison and picket duty in front of Washington. From the time of its first engagement it passed through the battles of Newmarket, Piedmont, Lynchburg, Winchester, Fisher Hill, two battles at Cedar Creek, Petersburg and Richmond. June 16, 1865, the original members were mustered out of the service and the remainder transferred to the 24th. The o7th contained sixteen Spencer men and was raised in the spring of 1864. It left the State in April and "fought its way from the Wilderness to Hatcher's Run, bearing a part in nearly every battle which occurred between these two points." For three months, following January 1, 1865, they were in the lines before Petersburg, marching and fighting until Lee's surrender. The (JOth was a one hundred days' regiment, and in it were fifteen men from Spencer ; also twenty-five men were distributed through the 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th and 5th Cavalry and ten men in the 2d and nth Heavy Artillery. Spencer was also represented in the Ist, 9th, 12th, 19th, 24th, 28th, 36th, -50th, 54th Massachusetts Regiments, the 154th New York, the California Artillery and the navy.

Tablets erected in the town-house bear the following names of those brave and true men who gave their lives in defence of the liberties of their country, viz. : Oscar R. Bemis, 10th Regiment, died in hospital at Baltimore, Md., August 22, 1862 ; Harry F. Adams, 21st Regiment, died at home on a furlough, May 19, 1863 ; Frederick A. Bemis, 21st Regiment, killed at Chantilly, Va., September 1, 1862; Elbridge C. Barr, 21st Regiment, killed at Fredericksburg, Va., December 13, 1802 ; Frank Bird, 57th Regiment, killed at Wilderness,

Va., May 6, 1864; Dwight Chickering,34th Regiment killed at Snickers Ford, Va., July 18,1864; Henry C. Chickering, 34th Regiment, lost from transport. May 2, 1865 ; Isaiah Crosby, 10th Regiment, killed at Malvern Hill, Va., July 1, 1862; Thomas Carney, 10th Regiment, died in hospital, Washington, D. C, August 30, 1861 ; James Crook, 2d Heavy Artillery, died at home on a furlough, April 25, 1865 ; Freeman Davis, 15th Regiment, killed at Wilderness, Va., May 6, 1864; Louis Dana, 2l8t Regiment, killed at Newbern, N. C, March 14,1862; Nathan S.Dickenson, 25th Regiment, died in hospital, Philadelphia, Pa., August 18, 1864 ; Lucien Fogg, 10th Regiment, killed at Wilderness, Va., May 12, 1864; William A. Frink, 25lh Regiment, killed at Drury's Bluft', Va., May 1(), 1864 ; George Farrel, 5th Cavalry, died at Point Lookout, Md., July 29, 1864; Joel W. Green, 1st Cavalry, died at Potomac Creek, Va., January 22, 1863 1 David Green, 3d Cavalry, died in hospital, Louisiana, July 28, 1864 ; Gardner M. Gage, 34th Regiment, killed at Berryville, Va., October 18, 1863; George W. Henry, 21st Regiment, killed at Roanoke Island, N. C, February 8, 18(i2 ; Otis M. Hunter, 34th Regiment, killed at Harper's Ferry, Va., April 10, 1864; Leroy Haws, 34th Regiment, died on transport, April 3,1865; Dennis Harrington, 25th Regiment, died in hospital, New-bern, N. C, September 21, 1862; Sylvester D. Johnson, 10th Regiment, killed at Fair Oaks, Va., May 31, 1862; Daniel Kelly, 9th Regiment, died in hospital, Fairfax, Va., October 20, 1862 ; Waldo H. Luther, 10th Regiment, died at Newbern, N. C, October 23, 1864; Edward A. Lamb, 60th Regiment, died at Indianapolis, Ind., October 31, 18()4; Abraham Luchay, 57th Regiment, killed at Wilderness, Va., May 6, 1864; James Larkey, 21st Regiment, died at Arlington, Va., June 1, 1864; Alfred W. Midgely, 10th Regiment, died of wounds. May 12, 1864 ; Joseph Mead, 21st Regiment, died at Danville, N. C, January 15, 1865 ; George W. Nason, 2d Heavy Artillery, died at Newbern, N. C, April 15, 1865; Nelson Reno, 4th Cavalry, died at Jacksonville, Fla., September 5, 1864 ; Samuel D. Sargent, 21st Regiment, killed at Roanoke Island, N. C, February 8, 1862 ; Jarius Sessions, 46th Regiment, died at Newbern. March 10, 1865 ; Edmund Toomey, 10th Regiment, died at Harrison's Landing, Va., July 19, 1862; John M. Worthington, 10th Regiment, killed at Winchester, Va. September 9, 1864; Horace Wilson, 24th Regiment, died in hospital, Newbern, N. C, April 26, 1862.

Schools. - The advantages for schooling in the West Precinct of Leicester were very limited during its early history as a precinct. Indeed, there were no schools in this part of the town until 1748, when a term of ten weeks was granted them, and three years later another term of six weeks. In 1753 this pre- cinct contained a population of more than two hundred people, and while they were paying taxes for the support of schools in the East Precinct, yet they were of little or no value to them, owing to the great distance to travel and poor roads to reach them. In 1755, two years after being incorporated into a parish, the sum of sixteen pounds was raised for schools, and the annual appropriations for this purpose, up to 1775, averaged thirty pounds. There were, as yet, no school-houses here, but for several years the question of building one or more had been before the parish.

In 176G the town was divided into six school "squadrons," three on the east and three on the west, and it was voted that " schools be kept in such as the inhabitants shall appoint," and private houses were used for this purpose. Two years later, houses were erected in some of these, but, as each was so sparsely settled and embraced so much territory, schools kept in them could not be made either practical or profitable.

In 1786 it was decided to reduce the size of the " squadrons," making them ten in number, and a vote was passed " to build houses in each," but the impoverished condition of the town at this time prevented the carrying out of this vote, and they were not commenced until 1790. In 1792 two hundred pounds were raised to finish school-housps already in process of construction, and also to build more, and in 1795 an additional sum of four hundred pounds was voted for the same object. The houses were now completed and the late divisions were now known as wards or districts, and in 1810 were formally numbered from one to ten inclusive, and duly recorded.

The first School Committee chosen in the town was in 1815, and the member? thereof were required to visit the schools twice each year, to note the progress of the various classes and their standing in reading, spelling and pronouncing, also in writing, arithmetic and English grammar, and "more especially their decent and respectable behuvior both in and out of school." It was also obligatory upon the committee to instruct the scholars in their " duty as to piety and morality." At the first visit of the committee they required each scholar to write his or her name upon a slip of paper, and the same again at the close, "that by this test they might ascertain what proficiency the pupil had made during the year."

The growth of the town from 1795 to 1837 did not require extra school facilities, and annual appropriations ranging from five to eight hundred dollars gave them a fair amount of schooling, both summer and winter.

In 18.32 a school sustained by private subscription was opened in the vestry belonging to the Congregational Church, in which the higher branches were taught, and remained there until a room for school purposes was fitted up on the first floor of the old town-house building, where it was transferred and the same grade continued until 18-57. In 1856, the population having reached the required number named in the school law making a high-school obligatory, steps were now taken by the town to comply with that law. Additional land adjoining that upon which the vestry stood was given them by William Pope, Esq., for a high-school building, and " a large and commodious edifice, 60 x 40, two stories high, with cupola and bell," was erected. The school and ante-rooms were upon the first or ground floor, and the second floor was used as a hall. Mr. Charles E. Denny, a respected citizen of Spencer, bequeathed the sum Of two thousand dollars towards the payment of this building, and in appreciation of this generous act the hall was thereafter to be known as " Denny Hall." In 1888 this building was moved to the south side of Main Street, near the Baptist Church, to be used as a graded or grammar-school, to give place to a new high-school building.

The first important addition to the district schools was in 1867, in District No. 9, when a substantial brick building, three stories high, was erected, which would accommodate three hundred scholars. The rooms were spacious, well lighted and ventilated, and it cost, when built, $22,000. In 1885 steam-heating apparatus was added and in 1887 gas for lighting. From 1865 to 1888 the population of the town trebled in numbers, necessitating a continued enlargement of school buildings in many of the districts, while within a radius of one-half mile from the centre extraordinary facilities were required. Within the latter limits six large brick structures have been built, the last one completed in 18SS, which will accommodate two hundred and eighty scholars, and the aggregate sittings in the six is sixteen hundred and twelve. They are unique in architectural designs and constructed with great care in reference to sanitary arrangements ; airy and well lighted and furnished with all the modern improvements.

The High School building, built in 1888, is the gift to the town of Spencer by David Prouty, Esq., a lifelong resident and honored citizen. The dimensions of this building are eighty-five by ninety-two feet, two stories high, with a basement. It is built of brick andstone, and the style of architecture, above the base- . nient, is Romane:ique in type. Upon a front corner is a tower eighty-three feet in height, and at its base a corner stone, with the inscription: "David Prouty High School."

The basement contains tvvo large play-rooms, a laboratory and library room, heating apparatus, storerooms, etc. On the first floor is the principitl's office, school and recitation rooms, and upon the u]iper floor a large hall used for meetings and entertainments in connection with class exercises. The cloak-rooms.

Spencer

This generous record is indicative of the steadilygrowing interest the inhabitants have manifested over the intellectual training of the younjr.

Datid Prouty. - David Prouty was the fourth of that name in direct descent from Richard Prouty, who was a resident of Scituate, 5Iass., as early as 1667. The first David in the line moved to Spencer early in the eighteenth century, purchasing and settling upon a lot north of the centre of what was, years after, Spencer Township. He had a son David, born in 1739, who was conspicuous as a soldier in the war with the French, a captain in the War of the Revolution, a major in the State militia and for many years selectman and assessor of Spencer. He had a son bearing his name, born in 1772, who also participated in the honors of the town as selectman for many years and Representative to the General Court ; and he had a son of the same name, born October 13, 1813, and is the suliject of this sketch.

Mr. Prouty was reared as a farmer and continued in this occupation until he reached the age of twentythree years. The year following he left the farm and entered the employ of Mrs. Hannah Hatch, widow of the late Eli Hatch, manufacturer of wire, and in 1840 he purchased these works of her. This was his first business venture, and he remained in it until 1846, when he disposed of the works to Liberty Prouty, that he might take possession of the farm inherited by him from his father, who died in 1845. In 1850 he sold this farm and came to "the village" and erected the dwelling-house he now occupies, moving into it January 6, 1851. In 1852 he entered the boot-firm of Charles E. Denny & Co., but in 1853 this firm was dissolved, in consequence of the ill-health of Mr. Denny, and in 1854 a second dissolution occurred, by the death of John G. Prouty, a member of it. John Boyden then became partner, under the firm-name of Prouty & Boyden, until 1857, at which time E. Jones & Co. took the interest of Mr. Boyden in the concern, and the name of the firm was changed to David Prouty & Co. In 1859 Isaac L. Prouty bought out the interest of E. Jones & Co , but the style of the firm remained the same, and in 1862 T. C. Prouty was admitted to the partnership.

There are qualities in the make-up of individuals, which, if well balanced and blended, are a guarantee to success. These Mr. Prouty possessed in a marked degree, viz., prudence, good management and a sound judgment; and they were in a great measure the secret of his prosperity.

Being a man of quiet and unpretending habits, whether in a social or more public way, unnecessary or outward demonstration or show was always carefully avoided by him. He has represented his fellow-citizens in the General Court, has held many offices in the gift of the town, and in any, or all of them, there has been no question raised as to his faithfulness, honesty or capability.

In his business efforts he has been richly rewarded with an ample fortune, and in his quiet way has made it the source from which many charitable objects have obtained pecuniary relief, and no worthy charity has appealed to him in vain. He has merited and still receives the kindest remembrances of his fellow-citizens, and they trust he may live long to enjoy the fruits of his generous charities.

He married Caroline, daughter of Dr. Jonas Guilford, of Spencer, Jan. 14, 1840. She died Nov. 14, 1863. Dec. 16, 1867, he married Mrs. Sarah B., widow of the late Charles E. Denny, sister of his former wife, and she died January 3, 1873. By his first marriage he had but one child, a son, Jonas Guilford Prouty, born September 21, 1844, and he died at the age of nineteen years. Mr. Prouty was deeply afflicted by this loss, as it not only destroyed in him bright hopes for the future, but this death left him childless and alone. Possibly it may have warmed his heart towards other worthy young men, as he has been deeply interested in a number of such, and they have reason to thank him for material aid rendered them. The spontaneous gift of the David Prouty High School Building was a noble illustration of a desire to confer a lasting benefit upon the young of this and future generations who shall seek it for moral and mental improvement.

Roads. - The traveled ways of the early settlers were the foot-path, which led from house to house, and the bridle-path, which led to town. Later on, these ways became roads, and at the present time, after passing through the various changes of straightening, widening and gr.iding, many of these " primitive paths " constitute important highways in this town. There is no record showing when the " Great Post. Road" was laid, but it was a public traveled way previous to 1726, as during that year the town - Leicester - was " presented " at the Court of Quarter Sessions for having no bridge across the " Seven Mile River." If the road had not a recorded location at that time, it must have had a little later on, as in 1728 the town was assessed the sum of £12 2s. 5d., it being their proportion of the expense of locating it.

After having been " presented " the second time at the court for the same oftence, in 1729 they caused a bridge to be built. In 1800, complaint having been made by the attorney-general of the " badness of the Great Post Road," an eft'ort was made to convert it and the North County Roads into turnpikes, but the town successfully remonstrated, by petition to the General Court, against it. In 1807 this road was altered and improved, by straightening easterly and westerly, from the house of Amasa Becnis, near Wescville, now so called. Further alterations, in location, east of this point had been suggested from time to time, and the commissioners called upon to make them, but as late as 1832 no important changes had been made. This year, however, they ordered specific repairs through "the village," and September 10th the sum of eight hundred dollars was voted ''for repairs near the houses of Joseph Mason and Walton Livermore." In 18")6 general alterations were made in the road from Brookfield to Leicester lines, re-locating it in places, widening, cutting and filling it in others, and marking the boundaries by stone posts at each angle along the whole line. The North and South County Roads were located in 1756 and '57 respectively. The Great Post Roatl was the busy one of these three highways, as the principal business between the country towns and Boston centred upon it. It was the main thoroughfare between Hartford and . Worcester, and was the route over which the first line of stage-coaches between these two points plied. This line was established in 1783, and the trip was made in four days.

Tavern.s. - Spencer was a famous stopping-place for these coaches I'rom the days of the " three taverns " in 1788 to the supplanting of them by railroads. It was a relay station for change of horses while its taverns furnished travelers with substantial food and drink, and it was not unusual to see fifteen coaches congregated here at the noon hour, and upon extra occasions, twenty-five. The Centre was early designated as " Upper and Lower Villages," the meeting-house being the nucleus of the former, and the "three taverns" the latter. These taverns, in 1788 the only three dwellings in the lower village, were the " Jenks," which occupied the site of the Massasoit Hotel ; the " Mason House, " beneath the "big elms'' near the boot factory of J. Prouty & Co., and the "Livermore House," on the site of the residence of J. W. Temple. In 1743, Josiah Robinson built a small dwelling upon lot No. 22, which was purchased in 1754 by one John Flagg and kept by him as a public-house for seven years. In 1775 Isaac Jenks became owner of the property and the house was ever afterward known as the " Jenks Tavern," and was the most famous of all the inns in Spencer with the traveling public. A French gentleman who chanced to spend a night under its roof in 1788 spoke in high terms of the manner in which it was kei)t in comparison with French taverns-

He said, " the chambers were neat, the beds good, the sheets clean, the supper passable ; cider, tea, punch and all for fourteen pence per head." Also, General Washington passed the night here October 22, 1779, and Mrs. Jenks, the hostess, was ever proud to refer to the event, as her illustrious guest complimented her at the breakfast-table by saying, " Madam, your bread is very beautiful."

There were but two dwellings in the " Upper Village " at this time, viz., the " Morse House," now standing on the west corner of Main and May Streets, and the " Pope Mansion." This latter, the oldest dwelling standing in town, was built in 1745 for Rev. Joshua Eaton ; and four years after the Rev. Joseph Pope succeeded Mr. Eaton. The former occupied this house with his bride. At his decease it came into possession of his son, William Pope, Esq. ; then was owned by Hon. William Upham, son-in-law of the latter; and since his death, Mrs. Lucretia H., widow of the late William Upham, has owned and occupied the premises.

This building has been carefully preserved for nearly a century and a half, and bids fair to pass far into the twentieth century us a veuerabl-j land-mark representing the birth of the " Leicester West Precinct."

Town Pound. - Upon a small piece of land, "five or six rods square," at the west end of the meetinghouse, was located the town pound, stocks and horse-block. The two latter " fixtures " did not survive the eighteenth century. There is no record showing at what date the pound was built ; but it was undoubtedly of early origin, as in 1768 a new one appeared to be necessary, the town voting then to build "a new one with stone," and appropriated £7 for the purpose. It would seem that they had but little use for it, as in 1772, and again in 1790, articles were in the warraut of these years, " to see if the town would use the stone to underpin the meet- | ing-house," or " to take the stone to fence the bury- ' ing-ground." Previous to 1796 one or more attempts were made to move it; but this year the ground upon which it stood was wanted for horse-sheds, in connection with the meeting-house, and it was voted "to build a town pound on Jeremiah Whittemore's land, at the corner of the town road where it turns to Benjamin Gleason's, of the same bigness of the old one, three sides of stone and one of wood." The contract for building was awarded to Mr. Whitteniore for £11. This enclosure remained until 1877, when the wall was taken down and the pound abandoned.

Post-office and Postmaster.^. - The first postoflSce established in town was on the Ist of October, 1810, and was kept in the "Jenks tavern." Isaac Jenks and his son, Isaac, Jr., were postmasters until December 15, 1825. At this date Charles Bcmis received the appointment, and moved the otiice to the tavem in the "Upper Village." Amasa Bemis, Jr., was appointed postmaster August 12, 1828, and Nathaniel Wilson February 25, 1831. Eleazer B. Draper became postmaster October 24, 1832, and he removed the office to the first location. William Bush, Jr., succeeded him September 22, 1845, and after two years he moved the office to the store of Dr. L. Bemis, now corner Main and Elm Streets, east side. April 3, 1849, Dexter Bemis received the appointment. The next appointee was George H. Livermore, January 13, 1851, and he located the office at "Union Building." The 3d of May, 1853, AVillard Rice became postmaster, and he changed the location to the ell part of the "Solomon Davis" house, corner Main and Elm Streets, west side. May 23, 1845, Luther Hill was appointed, and he removed the office to the "Bemis Store." July 11, 1861, Eli J. Whittemore was made postmaster, and it was again taken to Union Building, where it has remained to the present time. Horace A. Grant was postmaster September 2ii, 1864, and Emerson Stern was appointed May 18, 1869, and no change has been made since his appointment.

Cemeteries. - The first public burial-place in the town was upon about one acre of land, donated by Mr. Cunningham, and was the north part of the meeting-house and training-field lot. In 1791, 1817 and 1857 one-half acre each year were added, making the lot contain about three acres.. In 1872 afurtber addition was made, and at this time a trust fund was raised by parties having an interest in the protection and preservation of the family lots, monuments and other stones that marked the burial spots. The sum subscribed for this purpose was three thousand and thirty-five dollars, and the town was made trustee of the fund. New lots were located, concrete walks laid out and from time to time appropriate monumental and other work erected in memory of the departed.

The first person buried in the original lot was Elizabeth Adams, in 1742. In 1759 John Stebbings and others were given permission to erect tombs on the burying-ground. In 1790 this lot was inclosed with a "Good stone wall, with two Gates for to Pass and Repass." In 1793 it was voted " to purchase a carriage to carry Corpse to the Graves," and in 1794 a house was built for the hearse and a pall purchased. This was the only burial-ground until 1845. On the 20th of May of this year B. H. Kinney, of Worcester, purchased four acres of land lying partly on and forming the west bank of the " Seven i\Iile River," near the "Whittemore Bridge," so-called. He laid this out into burial-lots, avenues, paths, etc , and while it remained in his possession it was dedicated with appropriate ceremonies as " Pine Grove Cemetery." This lot lias been added to at two different times, until it now contains about twenty-five acres. It is owned by an association of proprietors belonging to Spencer, and the spot selected for it shows ability and taste to provide a home for the remains of loved

In 1864 the Catholics purchased three acres of land for a cemetery lying on the west side of the great post road, one mile west of the post-office. In 1868 they bought thirteen acres upon the east side of the road and opposite this lot, and subsequently, four and onehalf acres more were added. The new ground is ! neatly laid out, with a circular drive around a central mound, upon which is erected the Holy Cross. They have considerable fine monumental work, and are doing much each year to beautify the place.

Division of the CouuTy. - As early aa 1798 the question of a division of Worcester County came before the town, but the people were as loyal to the old county at this time as tliey had been to the country during the late perilous times, and did not cast a single vote in its favor. In 1828 another attempt at separation was made by taking sixteen towns from this county and four from Middlesex, and a petition from parties interested was presented to the General Couri, for that purpose. The vote of the town upon the question was two in favor and eighty-five against. A third time, in 1874, the people were requested to vote for or against a division, and they were as decided in their opposition to it as ever, and instructed their Representative " to oppose any legislation tending to make any change in the county."

Connected with State (Jovernment. - The following persons have been cimnected with the State government, viz. : William Uphatn, Councilor in 1878-79. Senators: James Draper in 1831-32; William Upham in 1859; Luther Hill in 1867; Charles P. Barton in 1883, and George P. Ladd in 1888. Delegates to Constitutional Convention : John Bisco in 1779; James Draper in 1820, and Jabez Green in 1853. Representatives to the General Court: Oliver Watson in 1775-76-77-80; John Bisco in 1777-80- 81 ; John Muzzy in 1779 ; Isaac Jenks, 1728 to 1786 ; James Hathaway, 1787 to 1794; Benjamin Drury, 1794 tol811; Jonas Muzzy, 1811-12 ; Phineas Jones, 1812 ;

Spencer, for several years after its incorporation, elected a representative alone ; then a representative district was formed of Leicester and Spencer. In 1866 the towns of Leicester, Spencer, Southbridge, Charlton and Auburn formed a district, and in 1876 Southbridge, Spencer, Oxford and Charlton were made a representative district. In 1887 the district was again changed to Leicester and Spencer.

Physicians. - The physicians of Spencer, previous to 1800, were James Ormes, from 1732, and later on, Asa Burden, William Frink, Benjamin Drury and Jonas Guilford. At the present time they are E. R. Wheeler, E. W. Norwood, F. J. Sanborn, E. A. Murdock. Marc Fontaine, Ishmael Verner and Eli Barnard.

Hox. James Draper. - James Draper was born February 26, 1778. He traces his ancestry to James Draper, of Yorkshire, England, who was born in 1618, and came to this country " between 1640 and 1650,'' and located in Roxbury, Mass. .Tames, the subject of this sketch, was a native of Spencer, as were two generations of his ancestors, and after a long and useful life he quietly passed away at the great age of ninety years, eight months and one day. His early life was devoted to the farm, but as this occupation was not altogether congenial to his taste, by close application to the limited educational advantages of the times, he fitted himself to perform such duties as an adviser or magistrate was expected to be familiar with in those days. With this qualification, and possessed of a good degree of intelligence, he very soon became a leading man in the town, and in the various positions in which he served his townsmen, acquired their confidence and established a high reputation among them and throughout the county. Although of an irascible nature, his kindness of heart and sincerity of motive enabled his many friends not only to overlook this characteristic, but to fully appreciate his abundant good qualities and worth.

In 1810 he was appointed a justice of the peace under Governor Gore's administration, and held the office more than fifty years. He ably performed the duties of it, whether called to act within the immediate vicinity of Spencer, or, as was often the case, in the more remote parts of the county. As a magistrate, his decisions or rulings were made after a conscientious consideration of the case in question, and J by common consent it was admitted they were ren- \ derod in a fair and impartial manner. He was regarded as good authority in matters of common law, and was well qualified for writing deeds, wills, agreements or other legal documents, and being a practical surveyor, was particularly adapted for the work of conveyancing. He was county commissioner for several years, was twelve times elected as representative to the General Court, and twice to the State Senate. j In 1820 he was delegate to the convention for making ' or altering the Constitution and, at times, occupied other positions of importance in the Commonwealth. < In town artairs he was selectman, assessor, town clerk 1 and treasurer for many years. I

In his early life, when church and town were one i and the same, he was prominent in the management of the former and interested in whatever pertained to it, and although a man of liberal spirit, he had a strong sentiment of veneration for whatever was spiritual and sacred. He was a great lover of music, and in his younger days taught singing-school in his na- J tive town. He composed some music, and at his de- i cease considerable in manuscript was found among his effects. At the installation of Rev. S. G. Dodd an anthem, written by iiim, was performed by the choir, and was regarded as a very worthy production.

In 1840 Mr. Draper completed a history of the town of Spencer, relating to " facts, incidents and events" recorded therein, with "brief notices and genealogies of families,'' and three hundred copies of it were published. In 1860 he revised this history with "additions and improvements," to this latter date. The genealogical department contains a list of more than five hundred families, and the history, as a whole^ is a work of considerable merit.

Mr. Draper married Lucy, daughter of Captain Samuel Watson, of Leicester, January 6, 1805. She died July 7, 1848. Their children were four daughters, all of whom lived to be married, but only one survived the father.

Town-House. - From 1744 to 1838 all meetings for the transaction of public business, of whatever nature, ' were held in the meeting-house. At this latter date objections were raised to the further use of this house forthese jjurposes, and the subject of building a townhouse was, at the earliest moment, brought before the town.

At a meeting previous to April 1, 1839, a committee was chosen to purchase a lot of land for a townhouse, and after consideration a lot four by five rods, on the corner of what is now Main and Maple Streets, the same being a part of the present " Union block lot," was bargained for and purchased. Then at a meeting, the above date, it was voted " that the town take measures to build a townhouse, or building for the purpose of transacting Public town business." At a subsequent meeting, however, the purchase of this lot of "4x5 rods,'' and all the business connected therewith, was reconsidered, on account of strong opposition to the location, and the lot upon which the present house stands was substituted. A building was at once contracted for, the same to be " .50x40 feet, 2 stories high with cupola," the first floor to be used for rooms for selectmen, weights and measures and other town purposes, and the second floor for a town hall. While this building was in process of construction, town-meetings were held at the taverns of Eleazer B. Draper and Dexter Bemis.

In 1S59 a bell was purchase<l and hung in the cupola, but in 1803 this became injured to such an extent that the selectmen were authorized to replace it by a new one " to weigh not less than 1800 pounds."