Westfield City (part 1 of 4)

Fred Schmidt George T. Slauter

Owing to the numerous inquiries concerning accommodations, it early became apparent that housing was an important part of the work of this committee. The accompanying information slip was therefore sent to thousands of possible visitors.

While the celebration was in progress the committee had its headquarters at the Town Hall and the duties of the Information Bureau were manifold.

Please Reserve For Me

Evening. August Slat Historical Address. September Int Historical Pageant, (caat of 800 people). September 2nd Community I'ienir. September 3rd Unveiling of General Shepard Monument.

Westfield, Massachusetts

street being closed to traffic by order of the Selectmen. Here, from 10 in the morning until 10 at night, visitors might obtain an idea of the diversity of Westfield's manufactured products.

Charles J. lies had general oversight of the exhibit and someone was always present to assist in the reception of guests, or to furnish information. Representatives of the various manufacturers were also on hand to explain their products. Twenty-five entered exhibits:

Fred E. Beals Frank L. Squire

"Garbed in a riot of color, which has never been equaled in the town's history, Westfield rested tonight, after strenuous days of endeavor, on the eve of the greatest festival of its community life, the four days observance of the 25Oth anniversary of its founding, which begins tomorrow and ends Wednesday night.

"Centering on Park Square, every thoroughfare which leads into it is a canopy of flags, pennants and bunting. The Square itself is a fairyland with hundreds of banners, streamers and decorations. The centerpiece of it all is the huge flagstaff towering above the trees of the town Green and the Honor Roll of those who entered service, which stands at its base.

"Festoons of pennants in long strings radiate from the staff across trees to every corner and to fixed points along the side. Crisscrossing beneath these are lanes of flags and the Welcome Home banners dedicated to the town's soldier sons. Intermingled with the national colors are the flags of all the Allies, blended so that all form a brillianthued mass. Viewed from the Shepard Triangle, Elm Street and other highways leading to Park Square seem to be a series of arches which out-rival any rainbow for kaleidoscopic coloring.

"To carry out this effect still more, every telephone, telegraph and trolley pole is bedecked with arms of bunting, and the cornices, sides and copings of buildings are blooming with red, white and blue. Symmetry in the scheme of decoration rules. It shows on every hand the result of care- ful planning. Now and then on the larger buildings there are centerpieces consisting of paintings of men famous in these and other times. These range from pictures of Washington to that of Major-General Clarence R. Edwards, former beloved leader of the Fighting Yankee Division, which decorates the headquarters of Westfield Post of the American Legion.

"Private homes, public buildings and even bridges have not been forgotten. Westfield is in holiday attire from its outermost limits to the heart of its business district." - The Springfield Union, Saturday, August 30, 1919.

Mrs. Frederic Goodwin

The brick house just south of the High School was selected. It was built about forty years ago by Noah Strong; but being acquired by the town it has recently been used for school purposes.

Here tea was served every day to thousands of guests, who were received by hostesses in quaint, old costumes. Mrs. E. R. Hawley was in charge of this department, assisted by the following committees :

Two Hundred And Fiftieth Anniversary

"Many groups of children came without guardians and the hostesses made up 'personally conducted' parties, telling the children the story of the bit of an old Continental flag, in the upper hall ; of the landing of the Pilgrims, bringing the primitive family treasures as shown in the early colonial interior, such as the Governor Carver chair, pewter, etc.

"One group of Italians were so impressed with the fireplace in the old cabin interior, its kettles and griddles, its spinning wheel, etc., that they exclaimed: 'Why! This is just as it is in our own country now! All is just the same at home ! ' An old foreigner pointed to the spinning wheel and said: 'My mamma she do this just same." - The Springfield Republican, September 3, 1919.

Mrs. Henry D. Chadwick

I think, to many of us, the celebrating of the 25Oth Anniversary of the settlement of Westfield was a glad time ; a time of inspiration that brought with it a sense of pledge to all those splendid New England settlers, the imprints of whose lives we are constantly coming across in all our doings.

We were glad too to unite with this feeling a joy in the home coming of our soldier boys and the end of war. We felt all through the celebration the spirit of the splendid past of our New England and were glad to turn from the tumult of war to do honor to those ancestors handing down to us such a heritage of loyalty and right living.

And so we entered into all the plans with great enthusiasm and the great things accomplished did not seem burdensome in the doing. I think it might be called Americanism that possessed us and Americanism written large!

To me the idea of an historical loan exhibit seemed the very first and closest expression of our nearness to, and interest in, the early days of the settlements. I felt that we should bring together and gaze once more upon those souvenirs, utensils and belongings which had really been a part of the life of old Westfield, used and lived with, by those people once peopling the town as we do today.

So it was with real delight and pleasure that I carried on this work with the sanction of the General Committee of the Celebration, and the enthusiastic promise of support from the Westfield Woman's Club. The plan as developed was to unite the Loan Exhibit with a Hostess House project or Welcome Home House, where the many strangers and returning Westfield people could find a touch of welcome, and a large bit of the old town gathered together again for all to see and enjoy.

The brick building next to the High School, built by Noah Strong as a home about forty years ago, and lately used as a vocational school, the building belonging to the town, was decided upon as the place for this combination of work to be carried on by the Woman's Club during the celebration.

Now it devolved upon me to fulfil my promise to get together such an exhibit, prepare the building for it and have all in readiness for the Woman's Club to take it over and "carry on " the five days inclusive of Saturday, August 30 to September 3. Then the darkest hours of the project dawned for me, for the committee did not think I needed very much money and the building proved to be in a very sad state after its occupation as a sort of machine shop and trades school. It was a worrisome time then to watch the precious dollars leak away to pay plumber, painter and cleaners. But slowly cleanliness and freshness crept over the old house and soft grey walls replaced the unspeakable paper and paint. Then came the delightful days of hunting about the old homes and garrets and treasure chests for the wealth of material to fill the bare rooms. I shall never forget the happy hours spent with some of the older people and listening to their stories and memories of other days; in climbing dark and dusty stairs to old garrets, storehouses, etc., to bring forth many priceless, almost forgotten, treasures to the light. One of our most precious old homes in Westfield is the "Moseley Mansion" on Union Street and to few families is given the privilege of keeping safely together under one roof so many wonderful old heirlooms of the long ago. Mrs. Maria Moseley Whitney, living there today, and her sister-in-law, Mrs. Thomas Moseley, joint owner of the place with her, were so generous and so appreciative that the treasures from this house alone made a fine exhibit. This old house has the spinning-wheels, chests, etc., of the seventeenth century; the Revolutionary relics; even portraits brought over from England. It is a shrine for all old Westfield lovers and long may it stand and the famous Moseley hospitality be offered to us there.

Mrs. Holland, though an invalid, gave from her treasures with the traditions of other days about them. Dr. Burge, with his memories of Indian wars, as well as the Civil War, gave generously of both treasure and story. Indeed before the exhibit was announced closed to further loans from lack of space so many treasures from so many notable and old families came forth we were really amazed at the quantity Westfield could show if she really tried. As it was the Strong house, filled as it was, showed only a little beginning of what the town might have shown with more time and space, even using careful selection.

As the work on the Loan Exhibit progressed new problems developed. Where I had hoped to make candlelight do for lighting I found it would be impossible as we would wish to keep open long evenings and even in the daylight the house proved dark, so it seemed necessary to add electrical fixtures. Then it seemed right to insure so valuable a collection against burglary and theft. When, however, I brought these troubles before Mr. William Reed and other officials of the General Committee they were troubles no longer as they assured me funds to cover these added expenses. Then again when it was found best to have watchmen stay in the Hostess House nights, as the value of the exhibit grew, offers came to me from several men to arrange for that. And so the way smoothed out.

Mrs. Lewis B. Allyn, president of the Woman's Club, called a meeting of the Executive Board, where plans were formulated for committees to take charge of the tea rooms in the Hostess House through the five days we planned to keep it open, namely from Saturday, August 30 to September 3 inclusive, with Mrs. Hawley as general chairman. Mrs. Lillian Avery was appointed chairman of the host- esses to act as guards and guides as well in the rooms containing the Loan Exhibit. These hostesses took charge in three shifts of six each, from 9 to i, I to 5 and 5 to 10, each day. All hostesses were to wear old fashioned costumes and carry out the spirit and the flavor of the past as far as they could, which they succeeded in doing most admirably. Other members of the Woman's Club volunteered to help in the arranging and cataloguing of the articles as received. Miss Florence Smith acted as secretary and clerk and did much valuable work in marking, cataloguing and listing everything as far as possible. Others loaned their cars to go for small and fragile things. Mr. George D. Roe, as chairman of the Transportation Committee, helped tremendously by sending trucks for heavy furniture. Also he, as well as other newspaper men, helped by notices in the papers.

Having gotten the material promised, the house ready and the first day of receiving the loans having arrived, another delightful phase came to me, the arranging of all these beautiful and precious things to the best advantage and with the best effect. It was like painting a picture to arrange the rooms. The large room on the first floor was to be a colonial parlor. Against the grey walls the raspberry damask hangings from the James Fowler home, which is now the Atheneum Building, and which were loaned by Miss Lucy D. Gillett, granddaughter of James Fowler, gave a delightful touch to the windows and room. Then, as a glowing center, the beautiful gilt mirror from General Shepard's family, loaned by his direct descendant, Mrs. Ronan, hung over the mantel. There were two old corner cupboards filled with precious china, glass, silver, pewter, etc. One of these cupboards was from the Moseley house on Union Street and one was from the old Day- Spencer house, now remodelled and standing on the State Sanatorium grounds. The first piano brought into West- field, and loaned by the Prout family, was a thing of grace and beauty but age had removed its music. Some very fine and priceless loans came from the family of Congressman Gillett, descendants of Samuel Fowler, Esq. One was a letter from Paul Revere to Mr. Fowler about the Academy bell which he had cast in his foundry and the tone of which had been criticized in Westfield. This bell fell later, during the burning of the Academy Building and a few pieces of it are still owned by people in Westfield. Another Gillett loan was a "licquor case" of fine inlaid wood, delicate flasks, bottles and glasses handed down from the old days. Also a mahogany piece which may have been a "licquor cooler" in the early days but since has been a "washstand" and now is a beautiful little cabinet, whatever its use might be.

From this family also came remarkable portraits of very early work. A very interesting high backed, black walnut chair, in which Captain William Moseley or "Captain Bill" used to read family prayers; a Windsor armchair once owned by General William Shepard; chairs from the Gillett, Gaylord, H. B. Smith, Harold Moseley, Holland and other families, representing several periods, graced this beautiful room.

A very fine Chippendale "chest on chest" loaned by Mr. J. J. Carl, collector and connoisseur of old furniture, added a great charm and dignity to this room. The family of Mrs. John R. Reed of Court Street loaned a portrait of Norman T. Leonard for many years a prominent attorney in Westfield. There were other fine pieces of furniture, old tables, etc., as well as portraits, candlesticks, fireplace fixtures, first oil lamps, the silver baptismal bowl of the First Congregational Church, date 1824, dainty snuff boxes, little boxes containing sand for blotting letters and wafers to seal letters in those old, old days. There was a pewter ink-well and goose quill, the old "toddy-glass" and mixer brought out to entertain the minister when he called way back before 1800. There was a King George "toby" or mug from the family of Lieutenant- Colonel Edwin Van Deusen, of the United States Army. There was a very remarkable communion service of lead, the old jug-like pitcher and little mugs coming from Granville and loaned by Mrs. Ralph S. Brown. On one wall hung a piece of hand woven tapestry, a part of the large collection loaned by the collector and dealer of antiques, Mrs. Willard S. Fuller of Franklin Street. Lamps and candlesticks hung with the old time crystal pendants added grace to the room. Lustre ware pitchers, egg shell china, old glass, wrought silver, wine carafes, all kinds of pewter; in fact more than one can ever describe made this room a most perfect ensemble to greet the visitor on his or her first entering the house.

Then on the right were two smaller rooms opening the one into the other which were used as tea rooms, where refreshments were served by members of the Woman's Club. Each day several groups of ladies attended to this part of the Hostess House activities, which was greatly appreciated by many visitors. These two rooms were also furnished with old furniture and heirlooms of Westfield, as well as garnished with lovely flowers. In one was a great old sideboard which once belonged to the family of Governor Hale; a wondrous tall "grandfather's clock" loaned by Dr. A. Fowler Noble; also two other fine old clocks from Mr. James Brown, one a French banjo or hour glass clock, the other a still older shelf clock.

One of the interesting things in this room was a strange old painting in water color loaned by Miss Lucy D. Gillett; another was a group of four Westfield sisters, of the Kneil family.

Some very fine old lacquered trays were used to decorate the walls in the next room, as well as unique oil paintings from the Van Deusen family. In this room was an old serving table from the Moseley home; a low-boy of the Silas Root family, from the home of Miss Frances T. Boise and Miss Elizabeth M. Hooker; candle stands, folding tables, old chairs, clocks, etc. Some very fine mirrors and a huge old pewter communion service loaned by Mrs. Charles Cooley added much to these two most attractive tea rooms, where it was a delight to sit and rest and taste the viands offered by the gracious hostesses.

Upstairs was reserved a rest room. In the hall was a remarkable collection of Indian relics from this locality, loaned and in charge of Mr. Henry Miller of Southwick. He showed types of stone receptacles, arrow heads and hatchets, making a most instructive and interesting exhibit.

One of the very best and I think quite the most popular feature of the whole Loan Exhibit was the pioneer or Puritan interior or kitchen. In planning this I made use of a stage setting which I had painted for a group of Puritan scenes presented one Thanksgiving Day on the stage at the State Sanatorium. The scene depicted a log interior with small high windows, a little wall cupboard and a rough stone chimney and fireplace, as well as old heavy doors with great iron hinges, as we know those earliest cabins were built. By putting up this whole scene in a rough old shop in the "ell" of the Strong house and adding logs and a red light to the fireplace, a most gratifyingly real effect was given as a background for the heirlooms of the days as far back as the seventeenth century. Dried apples and herbs were hung upon the walls; about the fireplace were the old implements - tongs, shovels, "slices" (long handled shovels used in the brick ovens), toasters, "grids," a crane upon which hung kettles of copper and of iron ; little three-legged iron skillets; the old bellows to blow the fire; ladles, etc., etc. A huge brass kettle loaned from the old Greenough house and the Bates family, as well as a fine Governor Carver chair were in this quaint and ancient appearing room. One of the old wooden cradles, spinning and flax wheels, as well as winding wheels, an old rush broom, a Revolutionary flintlock musket, ancient snowshoes and threadbare very old rag carpet of lovely hues added their interest here. In this room were two very, very old wooden chests, the leather covering hanging in tatters from the brass headed nails. One of these is marked 1672 in brass nails and came from the Moseley garret. The other came from the old Dr. Mather garret and was once used by the sheriff to hold the town records of West field. There too was the old painted, wooden tall clock brought up the Connecticut River on a schooner from Saybrook before 1750 to the Moseley family.

Here also were very old leather saddle bags used by Westfield doctors and farmers; the queer, round, first tin bathtub of old Dr. Mather's time; the stone mortar and pestle, heavy beyond words, used by Dr. Holland ; a queer, most unusual and mammoth cheese basket of reed, used to make cheeses in old Granville. In a set of shelves against the wall were many curious relics of those very early days, such as candle moulds of many kinds ; wrought iron shears and "frizzles"; iron candlesticks; a compass carried by Colonel David Moseley before the Revolution. Here were old stone jugs; foot-stoves for charcoal, which kept the feet of colonial dames warm in heatless churches; Paul Revere lanterns of pierced tin; later square lanterns with glass; both crockery and wooden butter churns of the ancient kinds. This room certainly stirred one's imagination and one's interest to the depths and appealed to all ages and classes of visitors. It was most interesting to see the children, of both American and foreign birth, sit or stand here and brood over these primitive furnishings

Some of the foreign born were happy here to see things so much "like we do at home." Some of them said that "Mother used the spinning-wheel now, just the same," or the fireplace was like that in the home "in the old country." One dear lady of one of our old Westfield families, whose eyes are growing dimmer, made me go back with her to prove the walls were not real logs nor the bark real bark. This interior seemed to make us all long to linger and reconstruct in our minds the customs and the life of our old New England ; the days of few and simple things all made by hard work and effort. Perhaps life was the bigger and fresher for that.

Perhaps when we compare that restful quiet interior with those of our more complex life of today we feel a little weary and wonder if we are not missing something after all, that belonged to those other days.

But opening out from this came another room and more precious things to study. Here were gathered the souvenirs of my lady, the dainty as well as the ruder fabrics. There were home spun linens; hand spun and woven blankets of wool; woven counterpanes and later marvelous quilts. There were all kinds of samplers worked by tiny hands of those far-away days but so real to us today, bringing up pictures of tired little maidens toiling over daily "stints" of fancy stitches. Here also were the ruffled shirts and "small clothes" of ye gentleman of past days; his embroidered satin waistcoats and silk stockings. There were bonnets of many quaint and lovable styles worn by Westfield girls of 1750 to 1850 perhaps. In glass cases in this room were wonderful glimpses of the belles of the seventeenth, eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. From the Fowler and Gillett families, from the Nobles, Shepards, Aliens, Moseleys, Topliffes, etc., were laces, wedding things, dainty high-heeled slippers and riding boots, old high backed combs and lockets; all my ladies' finery, even corsets, or as they then were called "stays." Wonderful things were these with stiff board or steel placed in the front and which we are told were used "to spank the children sometimes." Here were the great old carpet bags and queer high hats of the early nineteenth century. And here we see so many of the fine old treasured things loved by us as well as the dear little grand dames who first put them in their "dower chests" so long ago. And baby things of daintiest gossamer, and even dolls! Yes, little, queer, old dolls and quaint little wardrobes for them to wear!

Then came the colonial bedroom with its great four poster of curly maple and hand-carved posts, loaned by Mrs. Willard S. Fuller. But drawn out from under that was the object that the children all loved best! This was the trundle-bed, loaned from the Reuben Noble garret, with its hand woven tick, blanket, sheets and all. So many of the visitors to the exhibit could remember sleeping in one of those over fifty years ago, while so many younger ones were so amazed at it, never having heard of such a thing as a bed to be drawn out at night from under mother's bed to tuck the children in. And then the set of steps to climb up to the big bed piled so high with feather beds and all the rest! It seemed as if nearly every one, young or old, must climb those steps.

In this room too were quaint old pictures and mirrors, a fireplace, old bureau and washstands, with a real old willow ware pitcher and bowl, as well as a very quaint pewter bowl and a pewter "pig" or hot water bottle, besides the copper warming-pan we know much better. This room appealed as a lovely picture of the peace and rest of earlier days; much like the bedrooms at Mt. Vernon and other colonial houses preserved for us to see today.

Westfield, Massachusetts

Last came the "museum room" where were shown the relics of our wars; the precious documents relating to the history of families of the town, etc., etc. Here were not only a tomahawk from the French and Indian Wars; swords, sabres and guns from the Revolution; spurs from the War of 1812; relics from the Indian Wars of the West; swords, haversacks, canteens, guns, mess-kits, etc., from the Civil War; souvenirs from the Spanish War in Cuba and Porto Rico; but also souvenirs of our great World War just ended. This room the boys loved and specially the drum of 1812.

A very remarkable incident happened just before the celebration, which brought to us one of the choicest bits of the exhibit. This was an old spoon unearthed by ploughing on the J. Wells Loomis estate, the site of the first settlement of Westfield near the river on Main Street by the first bridge out from the center of the town. This spoon had the date 1670 on the bowl. It is of copper foundation with the silver plate worn off in places. It was cast in a mould. How strange that just now this spoon should come to light! It seems as if the spirits of those old settlers guided the hands that found it.

Here too were priceless papers from the Royalist days of the Colonies; through the Massachusetts Bay settlement days of Colonel Pynchon and Elder Chapin; through the Revolution and the great deeds of our hero General William Shepard; through the days of the churches and ministers, doctors and lawyers and farmers of old Westfield by deeds, writs, ledgers, letters, etc., which will remain as a most precious heritage to all future descendants of old Westfield families. Many were loaned by Rev. John H. Lockwood, who is writing a history of the town.

In fact as we describe this Loan Exhibit of 1919, for the 25Oth Celebration of the settlement of the town, we cannot but feel we are writing this for the benefit of those future generations who will celebrate the 3OOth and again the 350th anniversary of this eventful date. And for that reason I have dared to test the patience of those future readers by so minute a description of the articles, heirlooms, relics and souvenirs shown at this date, because it may be that fifty and one hundred years hence many of these things will be gone past recall into the decay and destruction which time most surely brings to all things.

We can only hope that the cherished plan that some of us have for some safe place to guard and keep many of these relics will yet come to pass for we realize that so much is already lost.

Today we think we can feel and say that the Hostess House with its Loan Exhibit was a great success in every way. Four thousand people registered at the door and two thousand more at least were hindered from registering by the crush and crowd that surged in at times. Several times we were obliged to close the doors to the public until the crowd thinned out.

Another thing that showed the appreciation of the public was the request to keep the exhibit opened longer, which was done, extending the time to nine days in all. Many have expressed regret that it could not have remained a permanent exhibition. I myself feel most grateful and happy that the undertaking was so well furthered and appreciated by the people of Westfield and for the many kind and most gratifying expressions from so many people as to its merit and success.

Anniversary Celebration

7.3Q P. M. Historical Meeting in the Methodist Church. Addresses by Frederick H. Gillett, Speaker United States House of Representatives, Rev .Lucius H.Thayer, Judge Michael H. Sullivan, Edwin W. Smith.

Three entrances to the Pageant Grounds. 1 - End of Mill Street Trolley Line. 2 - Highland Avenue (Highland Cars) 3 - Junction Western Avenue and the Granville Road. Cars leave Park Square 2.52, 3.00 3,07, 3.20, 3.22, 3.37, 3.40.

12.30 P. M. Luncheon and Band Concerts. 1.30 " Community Singing. 2.00 " Folk Dancing and Aesthetic Dancing. 2.00 " Program of Sports. 3.00 " Championship Baseball game.

2.00 P. M. The line of March is through Elm Street to Court Street, to Day Avenue, to West Silver Street to Broad to the Post Office. No Traffic allowed on these streets during the parade.

The Hostess House, containing the historical exhibit, is located in the old Strong house, Broad Street, next to the High School. Open 1 to 10 P. M., Saturday and Sunday. 9 A. M. to 10 P. M. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Thomas J. Cooley Rev. Robert Keating Smith

"Leaking skies early Sunday morning, followed by occasional showers even as late as noon- time, served not to dampen the ardor nor the enthusiasm of the hundreds of guests who arrived for the celebration period. Nor did clouded skies at church time prove a deterring feature to large congregations. All the citizens, former residents and guests were urged to attend divine service at the churches of their choice, or the churches of their fathers, and the clergymen had been requested to prepare sermons appropriate to the occasion.

"In the afternoon the sun broke through the clouds and as a result Westfield was visited by thousands of residents of this section, traveling both by trolley and auto. Most of these stopped and became imbued with the holdiay spirit occasioned by the festive appearance of the town. The Hostess House on Broad Street was the mecca of large numbers, who visited the Loan Exhibit. The industrial display in Holland avenue was closed for the day.

"Family reunions without number were recorded and there was hardly a Westfield home that did not have some returned member to take part in the celebration of the town's birthday anniversary.

"The arrival of the Fort Ethan Allen Third Cavalry troop machine gun company early in the day resulted in many townspeople visiting the playgrounds to see Uncle Sam's seasoned fighting men in a miniature of what Westfield witnessed during the time that Camp Bartlett was occupied in preparing fighting men for overseas service, two years ago.

"In the evening long before the church bells began to chime their welcome and invitation to the meeting, streams of residents and visitors began to wend their way to the church. Some time before the opening of the program, every choice seat in the vast assembling-place had been taken. Had it been possible to secure an auditorium twice its size there is little doubt but that this too would have been filled. The auditorium of the Methodist Church was selected because it is the largest one in Westfield; but for once in its long history it was entirely inadequate to comfortably house the crowds which sought admission. Nearly two thousand persons came to the opening of the town's 25Oth Anniversary Celebration, and to greet its four native sons who spoke.

"Speaker Frederick H. Gillett of the National House of Representatives was Chairman and spoke to his fellowtownsmen. Rev. Lucius H. Thayer of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, delivered the historical address, his subject being 'The Spirit of Old Westfield.' Edwin W. Smith, secretary of the executive committee of the 25oth Anniversary Celebration, presented the welcome of the committee and the townspeople to the guests. These are Westfield's native sons. Judge Michael H. Sullivan of Boston, Chairman of the School Board in that city, also spoke, his subject being 'Westfield's Future.' Although a native of Granville, his early life was so identified with the history of Westfield as to make it proper to class him as one of its own sons.

"An appropriate musical program was given. Mrs. William B. Reed, of Westfield, sang 'Home Sweet Home'; and the 25Oth Anniversary Chorus under the direction of Frederic Goodwin, with Mrs. Harriet Shaffer of Springfield as soloist, sang Charles Gounod's 'Jerusalem, O Turn Thee to the Lord.' In the latter part of the service it sang the 25Oth Anniversary Hymn which was written by Miss

Mary S. Thayer, a sister of Rev. Lucius H. Thayer. The congregation also took part in the singing of this hymn. Miss Lena J. Bartlett, the church organist, gave an organ recital previous to the opening of the meeting and again at its close. Rev. William S. Ayres of the Baptist Church offered the invocation, following which the chorus sang Sir John Stainer's composition 'Sevenfold Amen.' Rev. Conrad Hooker, pastor of the Methodist Church, pronounced the benediction." - The Springfield Republican.

We have read the valiant story of the founders of the land, For their home the trackless forest, with fierce foes on every hand, Men and women of stern fibre, here for truth and God to stand, For faith was marching on.

We have seen their children's children in their conflict over fate, High of heart and strong of purpose, rise unconquered and elate, Having won their independence, and in justice reared a state, For right was marching on.

Here have lived the many thousands, men of brawn and men of brain, Giving faithful, loyal service, recking little toil and strain, So they wrought some goodly labor, so their town and state made gain, For hope was marching on.

We have known the awful sorrow of a nation crucified, We have thrilled with holy fervor o'er its heroes who have died, We have seen the gates of freedom, here forever opened wide, For truth was marching on.

We have lived thro' days of anguish, while lads' souls were passing on, All aflame with love and ardor, that a world might be new born, They the crown of all our service, in the century's glad morn, When peace is marching on.

And we sing the wondrous vision of the days that are to be, When the angel of His presence hovers over land and sea, And all men shall live as brothers, ruled by love and equity, For God is marching on.

We thank Thee with great rejoicing, O God! thanking Thee for the large place in which Thou hast set us. We thank Thee for our beautiful homes, for the spirit of fraternity which prevails in our midst. We thank Thee for all the prosperity of these days. And we thank Thee that even in the midst of bitterness and grief we have come to know how wondrously Thou art verifying Thy kindness in the lives of Thy children.

We thank Thee for the hardy race who have gone before us. Do Thou grant that the memory of all these things that are gone may idealize the upbuilding of our lives in all that is strong and noble and good. May it be our joy more and more to try to found our community life upon those great principles of righteousness and fraternity which shall enable us to realize something more of the blessedness of the Kindgom of God on earth.

So when we turn to Thee this evening, in the midst of our rejoicing, with deep gratitude for the blessings of the days that are gone, that through these things we may have a clearer vision of the better life into which still Thou would lead us, let Thy serenity rest upon our community, make Thee more and more dear to us, that we have come to realize what it has meant in all the years that are gone, in the training of our own lives and the fitting of ourselves for the fullest realization of the divine purpose among men.

Edwin W. Smith

It is not possible to translate into human speech the voice of welcome, nor to explain the attachment of humanity for a particular spot of the earth. Your welcome was being made ready for you when first these mountains which we love and cherish were brought forth and when the streams first made glad the valley. For the hand of Nature had much to do in moulding the character and lives of the people that have lived here. Your welcome is found in the treasured memories of the past, in the associations so dear to your heart, and the influences since removed.

We have not summoned you here for joy alone, nor to simply mark the passing of time, but we have gathered you here in order that we might express to you our heartfelt gratitude for all that you have done to make the Westfield of today. For we are the happy inheritors of all the past. And rather than to the years that have gone we ask you to join with us in doing honor to the character, and to the conditions that produced that character, that made the Westfield men and Westfield women.

Your welcome will be what you bring here in your own hearts. To that we will try to add as hearty a handclasp and as warm a heart as was ever extended to a homereturning people.

Our forefathers in the fifty years that have passed since our last gathering built so securely and well that thousands have come from distant shores to join us and to share our civilization with us. We trust that you will find in returning home that in our citizenship with them you perceive the best that is in them, and that you have remained con- slant to something of the inheritance of the idealism which is New England. If you have not done this you have not kept the faith. But we believe you have kept the faith, and that before you leave us, like the watch of old, you will cry "All is well!"

Our summons to you went out in love for Westfield and all the things that have ever been Westfield, and in the loyalty of your affection have you responded. Let us, then, in the light of the fire kindled by our common love make glad.

Fifty years ago, at the bicentennial celebration, an honored and eminent citizen of the town delivered an address full of the gracious sentiment that expressed his mind and his heart toward his fellowmen. We of a later generation have seen that attitude expressed in a descendant resident among us in works of good. Other gifts had Edward Bates Gillett than that of eloquence. One of those gifts has given a life of service to the republic. To few sons of Westfield is it given to occupy the seats of the mighty. Why I know not, unless it is that the supply exceeds the demand. But when they do achieve the heights Westfield loves to honor them.

Hon. Frederick H. Gillett

It is very difficult for me to leave Washington nowadays, and this is the first time I have been home since the session opened in May, but I did not feel that I could miss this celebration. On the similar occasion fifty years ago my grandfather was president of the day and my father delivered the address of welcome, and although I have not lived here for many years it has always been home to me, and tenderer ties draw me to it than to any other place.

for as I stand here if that window in front of me was plain glass I could look across the street and see the window of the room where I was born, and this whole area just about us is impressed on my memory probably as indelibly as any spot on the globe. In front of the academy where the statue of General Shepard is to be dedicated was the scene of my schoolboy sports. So little traveled was Broad Street in those days that we considered that football and baseball had the first right and that every passing team was an unjustifiable intruder upon our preserves. Never, I believe, was there a happier boyhood than I passed in the country village which Westfield then was, and seldom, I believe, have there been healthier and wholesomer ones.

A boyhood in a New England town was then the purest education in democracy. There was an absolute democratic equality, without a thought or suspicion of difference because of wealth or occupation. The qualities of the boy himself were the only elements of popularity or leadership. I think all of us, as we advance in life, as we see the future growing shorter and the past stretching out longer behind us, indulge more and more in retrospect and turn back far more often and more fondly to the childhood days and to the old home. The changes which I see in the Westfield of today are only symptomatic of the changes which have swept over all America. In the last fifty years there has been more change in the methods of life than have occurred in a thousand years before, except perhaps for the introduction of steam. The development of electricity for street cars, for light, for power, the telephone, the typewriter, the automobile, all these have so revolutionized life that we seem to be living in an entirely different age.

We are wont to complain of present conditions. It is human nature never to be contented and indeed I think it is fortunate that we are so constituted, because it is that spirit of discontent which makes us ever strive for something better and is a perpetual promoter of progress. But the inventions of this last century and the mastery which man has achieved over Nature have put in the hands of every citizen amazing possibilities. Our mechanic of today, who lives in the ordinary tenement house, has more comforts, conveniences and luxuries in his daily life than Queen Elizabeth, with all her wealth and power, could command.

And so, while we are discontented, let us occasionally think of what we have to be happy over. I suspect that any of the residents of the Westfield of two hundred and fifty years ago, or a hundred years ago, or fifty years ago, if they could only come back today and see it in its decorated loveliness, its fine buildings, its commodious residences, its broad and trim streets and lawns, they would be amazed and astounded and wonder what sons of theirs had created such a magnificent domain. Certainly, as we look at West- field today any native or any stranger may well feel proud that it seems to be representative of the very highest type of the prosperous progressive modern town.

But after all the supreme test of our achievements is their effect on man himself. Have all these triumphs over Nature improved our race? Is the environment of Westfield today developing a better character of citizen than it did at our last anniversary fifty years ago? We are bigger, the appearance of our streets and buildings and grounds is much finer, greater luxury is evident, but is the atmosphere better for the upbuilding of character?

and I confess that I am not sure, despite all of which we can justly boast, that when we come to the core of our problems, the upbuilding of a better race, how much our country has advanced.

The old New England town had much that was unlovely and yet its very poverty and the struggle and self-denial which that compelled developed sturdy character. It was the life of the small town that naturally stimulated those qualities which have made the greatness of America - selfreliance, enterprise, equality and respect for law - and as a country grows in population and wealth, produces large and congested cities, new problems arise which are far more difficult than the simple hardships of country life.

Those are the problems which our country is facing today. Just now not only our country but the whole world is in a state of ferment. This greatest war of history has so disjointed production and stimulated special activities that it has left industry unbalanced and we are striving now to attain an equilibrium. The process must necessarily cause great inequalities and many just complaints and hardships. The enormous cost of living bears hard on every one, and yet I am disposed to think that those who suffer most have not been loudest in their complaints. It is the salaried men, the men whose regular but small allowances have not been raised in proportion to the rest of the country, who I believe have the justest grievance. There never was a time when a workman was so certain of employment or at wages so high, compared with his living cost, as today. Of course there are exceptions, but that is the rule. Today any man who is industrious and reliable can be assured of remunerative employment. But the unrest occasioned by our extraordinary conditions, the temporary shortage of labor, and the selfish profiteering by every class have constituted a consistently increasing occasion for alarm. It may be that only by a general crash, which will make the innocent and the guilty alike suffer the pangs of loss and unemployment, will we be awakened to the instability of our present condition. It will be suicidal and cruel if we do not develop now the self restraint to cure gradually our temporary ailments instead of letting them bring us to a sudden general disaster in which we all must suffer and from which we must emerge slowly by building up from the bottom again the industrial structure which we allow to be demolished.

It is, I believe, by exercising the dominant spirit of the old New England town that our present threatening condition can be remedied. Thrift and self-denial, work and saving, is what our country needs, and that is what our hard-headed, determined, sometimes unattractive nationbuilders developed. They could sacrifice the pleasure of the moment for permanent future enjoyment. It is such self-denial that builds character - it is that which we need today. I believe that by harking back to the old town spirit of Westfield and the other towns like it, which not only developed themselves but sent out to the rest of the country a strong tide of enterprising, thrifty life, we shall learn a lesson. The people, a dangerous number of the people, are today living a life of excitement and pleasure, of restlessness and extravagance. And this is abnormal living and abnormal thinking. It is far from the homely New England methods of life and of thought which first made America. We must go back to those methods.

Those men looked life as it was in the face and found it good. They respected themselves and each other and their fellowmen, and were in turn respected. They owned their houses and there made homes for their families. With no prospect of immediate wealth, their point of view was not embittered by the fact, and they watched their savings accounts grow with pride and satisfaction. They were not ashamed of their work, knowing it to be a useful contribution to society. They were democratic in their point of view, took a keen and intelligent interest in politics and lived the life of free men to whom that condition meant high responsibility fully met.

The women folk, wives of these men, met life with no less healthy a point of view. They took the home which their husbands' earning capacity builded for them and put their minds and their hearts into the problem of managing it efficiently. Theirs was the task of finding contentment in what was theirs and they found it. Their happiness lay in their healthy children, in their pleasant homes and in the consciousness that they were aiding their men folk in the work that was theirs.

Together such a couple lived in happiness. They furnished and insisted upon education for their children which would enable them to win any success their individual ability might make possible. Satisfied with their estate, peace was in their hearts instead of restlessness. Their ambitions were conceived in reason and they pursued them with a healthy appreciation of the fact that steady and sober methods are in the end more effective than rash and spectacular gambles.

Westfjeld, Massachusetts

We see men clamoring for the immediate attainment of extravagant ambitions - restless and discontented in the estate which is theirs. We see their women aggravating the condition by seeking costly and ephemeral excitement under the misconception that they constitute the source of true happiness. We see the boys and girls of today emulating the mental attitude of their parents toward life, thinking far more of the "movies," the soda fountain, the dances and so forth, than of how they may develop sound minds and healthy bodies for the life that lies ahead of them.

I shall not attempt to analyze the whys and wherefores of this condition today. It is sufficient that it is here. Any thinking man or woman is conscious of its presence. The citizens of the land must discard the abnormal for the normal. And the old ideas, the ideas that we of New England are proud to call our own, the ideas of soberness and thrift, are the ones that will see the nation through the crisis of the present to a secure and prosperous future.

How shall we reduce the cost of living is the question on everyone's lips today. There is but one way in my opinion, the old New England way, produce more and save more, increase supply and you will reduce the price. But today the tendency is all in the contrary direction. Every one wants to work less hours - to reduce his production but to increase his expenditure and live better. The war has begotten great extravagances both in expenditure and expectation. Until the world's stock is again made good every nation ought to economize, and the nation can only do it through its individual citizens. We ought all to pare our expenses and stimulate our productive energies, be stingy in our living but liberal in our work. That is what this emergency demands, that is the only way to meet the world problem that is staggering us. If we will all take a lesson today from the old New England town like Westfield, it will invigorate our national life and promote our national safety.

The Story Of A Democratic Community

We are gathered here with a common consciousness of a history covering two hundred and fifty years. There is central in it a great purpose, tenaciously held and honorably developed. It is characterized by a spirit which that purpose evoked. It is marked by the homely and interesting features of the changing customs of eight generations. It is replete with entertaining and revealing incident. It has to do with the careers of many men and women whose names ought to be recited and whose stories might well be told. It rests down upon the daily fidelities and the humble services of a great body of simple folk whose names are forgotten and who have left no memorial. It is colored by the hopes and fears, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and defeats, the aspirations and failures, the sins and repentances of men and women of like passions with ourselves. It is the narrative of one countryside but it may not be understood or interpreted apart from the great movements of world history.

I am conscious as are you of the scope and interest of the field that opens before us and, as I face the summons of this hour, I recall the story of a convert of John Eliot in the early days of New England who, when asked to give his religious experience, said, "I am only a poor Indian. I know but little and therefore I will say but little."

The significant material, laboriously gathered by the early historians, has been so set forth in detail in recent newspaper articles and in the official program that he who runs may read. For those who would be more fully informed there are available the classic address of my predecessor, William G. Bates, the competent sketch of James C. Greenough, the invaluable papers of that devoted and painstaking son of Westfield, Louis M. Dewey, and we are promised soon the full and connected history from the pen of Rev. John H. Lockwood. We shall leave then to the historians their work and their meed of praise, and rehearsing some features of the long story, hope to lay hold upon the purpose that underlies it and to receive a portion of the spirit that animates it.

This preliminary gathering and the well planned events of the days to follow are justified by four ancient records from which we quote. At a meeting at Woronoco, January 21, 1668, it was:

"Voted, that James Cornish, George Phelps, Thomas Dewey and Tho. Noble shall goe to Springfield the first Tuesday in February next, at a towne meeting, to propound to the town for the settlement of our place and affayres, ... to lay out the bounds granted us by the Honor'd Gen'll Court, and to allow us to be a township of ourselves and signify the same to the honored Genl. Court."

"Springfield att a Towne meeting ffeb. 2nd 1668. Upon ye motion of ye inhabitants at Woronoco This Town being willing to promote and further their desire to be a township of theirselves, . . . Deleave the Inhabitants there to themselves to manage their own matters . . . and we hope the Corte will cause to order them to be a Township and that they through the favor of God may grow up into a comfortable society, and bee a happy neighborhood to us and Our f friends and Theires."

"There being a motion made to this Court in ye behalfe of ye inhabitants at Woronake belonging to Springfield, that they be a township of ymselves: Springfield being willing theretoe . . . This Court (therefore) Doth hereby grant them to be a Township, and allows them all Privileges ac-

"These preasants testify that Alquat the Indian Sachem of Waranoake and pochasuck for and in consideration of the sum of forty Pounds . . . fully satisfied and contented hath Given, Granted, Bargained and sold . . . unto Capt. Aron Cooke, Mr. James Cornish, Mr. Joseph Whiting, George Phelps, Tho. Noble, David Ashley, John Roote, of Westfield, alias Warranoke, For themselves and ye Present Inhabitants of ye aforesaid Place or Plantation and theire successors and assignes From time to time and unto their hires forever,"

It was an orderly and honorable beginning, but not the good- will of neighbors, or the purchase of land, or even the act of a General Court could constitute a town or assure the two hundred and fifty years of worthy community life which we recall today. The future was in the hands of a little group of men and women whose courage, whose patience, whose fortitude, whose cheerful labor and unremitting toil, whose prudence and sense of justice, whose mutual good-will and trust in God would alone enable them to endure the difficulties, dangers and privations necessary to subdue nature to the uses of civilization, to meet the assaults of a savage life challenged to a death struggle, and, in spite of natural self-seeking and inexperience to accommodate themselves to each other, and in parts remote from constituted authority to lay the foundations and develop the institutions of a just and authoritative civic order.

acteristics guaranteed because they were inherent in a purpose that so possessed its founders that it had led them forth from fair countrysides and well-loved hearthstones beyond the sea. It was the very purpose that declared itself in the cabin of the Mayflower, and brought out of England the great Puritan migration, made up of sturdy middleclass folk, shepherded by godly university men, for whom England, then, had no place. These people settled the Bay Colony, established themselves along the Connecticut River, and in time, some by the way of Dorchester, some by the way of Windsor, some by the way of Springfield and Northampton came to this pleasant valley. Here, their wanderings over, they well endured the tests to which their purpose subjected them, building and occupying as free men, fearing none but the God who spoke to them in their own consciences and vindicating their right to be named among those who were the fore-runners of a new day. That purpose, never fully apprehended, often uncertainly held, sometimes disowned, yet really dominated these Westfield men in common with the other settlers of New England. That purpose was central in their spiritual experience. It determined the form of their ecclesiastical life and the expression of their religious feeling. It disclosed itself more and more in the form and quality of their citizenship. For this purpose had been awakened by the principle of liberty, growing strong in the seventeenth century. It involved the determination to realize the fact that all men are born free and equal. It was nothing other than the urge of Democracy that was at the heart of this purpose. It was the glory of these men that they felt the urge, and their greatness that, according to their light and for the purposes of their day, they were obedient to it.

A Habitation And A Name

When in 1669 Westfield became a habitation and a name, it was made up of three small settlements in distinct localities. The oldest was on the north side of the river in the region of Union Street. It was called the "Cellar Side," for here the contour of the land enabled the settlers to make their houses larger and more snug for the winter by excavations in the earth. Here in 1663 George Saxton, and Walter Lee of Northampton bought land of one Ensign Cooper who had received a grant in 1658 ; and here in 1664 JohnSackett of Northampton bought the second early grant, farther east, of Deacon Samuel Chapin. The oldest highway, that from Northampton to Windsor, laid out in 1662, ran through this first settlement, connecting it with the so-called "South Side," where had been a trading house in 1639, which had involved Massachusetts and Connecticut in a contention as to jurisdiction. This was the Little River District and here in 1668 Captain Aaron Cook had opened the first tavern, having for neighbors James Cornish, Thomas Dewey, John Osborne and John Ingersoll. The third locality, shut off from the main route of travel and enclosed by the meeting of the waters, was called the "Fort Side." Settlers had been established here for a few years, dwelling in home lots near together. In 1668 the meadow land, through which the street of that name runs, and the two divisions of the plow land extending away to the river and up to Squawfield, were allotted to some thirteen men. The Fort Side grew in importance and became the center of the town life. Here, near the old Indian fort, was built the meeting-house in 1672, and the schoolhouse hard by in 1700. On the same north side of the Great Street Joseph Whiting had opened the first store, selling out his holdings in 1677 to John Moseley of Windsor. It was during this year that the increased activity of the Indians brought the order for "Compact Dwelling." The home lots were divided in a spirit of co-operation, and except two households in forted houses, Westfield was for a period an enclosed village, some two miles in circumference, protected by the rivers and a high palisade.

In these days when the old Indian names are much in vogue, it at first seems strange that the designation Woronoco, spelled in various ways in old documents, was not given to this town. Woronoco flows sonorously from the lips. It has dignity and was significant for this fertile valley. But in common with all the early settlers, our fathers had no liking for the Indian vocabulary of names, and seemed determined to christen the lands converted to the uses of a new civilization in good Anglo-Saxon terms. In a record of August n, 1668, the town was called "Streamfield," a natural and pleasing designation for the region of two rivers, of Tomhammuck stream that turned the early mills, and of the town brooks that then meandered through the meadows or seemed to tarry in the sluggish spruce swamps. The name Westfield is in itself prosaic enough. It obviously designated a settlement west of Springfield and of the meeting place of the General Court; but with this fact was connected another fact that gives to the name a deeper significance and invests it with real dignity. For fifty-three years this town was the frontier of civilization in the old Bay Colony. The first inhabitants were not only pioneers but frontiersmen in the name of liberty. The men and women of Westfield were the responsible keepers of the outposts of civilization both against the Indians, those outward foes who threatened the whole enterprise and against those inward powers of darkness which ever assail the souls who under discouraging conditions seek noble ends.

The Period Of Testing

During the period of King Phillip's War and of the Indian raids that followed, the people of Westfield gave a good account of themselves, but it must be confessed that in actual loss of life and property the settlement suffered little in comparison with others. When we read the records and realize the dangers that threatened, we accept reverently the judgment of the first pastor who records that "this handful was sorely pressed yet sovereignly preserved." The hindrance to the growth of Westfield in this period is evident. Settlers were not likely to flock to the frontier, and the natural expansion of the town's life was impossible to men who sowed and reaped under fire. The anxious days of men, women and children, whose fortitude made possible this day, must not be forgotten, but for our purpose we turn with special interest to two occurrences in connection with these trying days, occurrences which reveal the democratic temper of mind.

One of these incidents makes evident that these settlers possessed the qualities of independence and hardy self reliance, qualities that fit men for citizenship in a democratic order. In March, 1676, the General Court, evidently in a state of panic, advised the inhabitants of Westfield that they could not supply them with ammunition or with men to protect the settlement and called upon them to remove to Springfield. A town meeting was held and a vigorous letter of protest, cogent, convincing and high spirited, written by Rev. Edward Taylor and signed by an Ashley and a Dewey, was sent to the Council. It was "generally thought strange that Springfield should be judged a better place for fortification than Westfield." To remove to Springfield that "hath been sorely under ye blasting hand of God," they said, "seemed such a strange thing that we find not a man among us inclining thereto." The selectmen made a canvass of the town, "to see who are willing to depend upon God in the use of means for our own defense here." And as I read the record and remember the decision, I think of that early settler, the Miller from Weymouth, whose name was Fearnot King. It was during this period, on March 26, 1676, that the action of the town gave evidence of an appreciation of the common weal without which no democracy is possible. The record tells us " that the town considering the hand of God upon us in having or letting loose the Indians upon us" they find it is not a time for them to carry on their affairs as before or to extend their private enterprises, but rather to give up their former personal advantage, "that so we may carry on something together for the good of the whole, that so by God's blessing on our labor we may be in the way of getting food for our families . . . and we agree to plow and sow and carry on improvements of this field in general." To this agreement were appended ten names, all but one of which are known in this community today. As a still further evidence of the same spirit was the compliance of the settlement in the compact dwelling order of 1677, whereby some gave up their beginnings outside the "Town Plot," and those within "yielded to break their home lots and foregoe part of their interest in them to such other persons as should come to settle on them."

Paths To Dwell In

The territory granted Westfield at the first was nine miles long and from four to five miles wide. Additional land was granted in 1713 by the General Court, and in 1737 the New Addition of 6,000 acres to the west was granted, the town being desirous of a good supply of building stone. The district to the south of Poverty Plains was incorporated as Southwick in 1775, and the great grant of 1737 was later divided between the other daughters of Westfield,

Montgomery born in 1780 and Russell born in 1792. From the beginning and of necessity the fathers were road builders. They first opened up paths for feet to tread in and then laid out streets, some of them so wide that we, who rush about in the unforeseen motor cars, have reason to bless these men for their liberality. The streets were finally named in 1832 by a committee of which James Fowler was chairman. But very early South Street was opened up to the plow land, and the present Silver Street led out of it to the west, going in time on to Squawfield. The center of town life crept slowly up the Great Street, now Main Street. The second meeting-house was built on the corner of Meadow Street in 1721. The brick schoolhouse was located quite beyond this in 1753, and finally in 1805 the great white meeting-house, with its fine lines and comely spire, crowned the new and permanent center at the Green where long before the Great Street had found an end. The present Elm Street ran away north to Franklin Street along which went the way to Pochassic. Not knowing its great destiny, Elm Street did not venture on its way to Meadow Street and the river until 1716. Our Court Street started west at an early date, making an entrance for the Sheffield Road in 1 736 and the end of a way of great service to the traders and warriors of the eighteenth century. Broad Street completed the four great ways as it went south to find the road that perpetuates John Ponder 's name, going out by way of the hollow to Southwick. The county road to Springfield was laid out in 1673, but the bridle path that allowed communication with Boston did not become an open way until late in the eighteenth century. For nearly a century the trade between the Bay and Western Massachusetts went by water around the Cape and passing Saybrook Fort, where it was wont to evade toll, came to Windsor or Hartford where the merchandise was loaded on carts and brought up the country road. Thus town roads be- came streets, along which in time new homes were built and the evidences of a diversified industrial life appeared, while the trails became highways connecting a growing community with the larger centers.

Set at the crossing of the ways, then as now, Westfield even in frontier days kept in the main currents of contemporary life and thought. The information which formed the citizen life and gave direction to its democratic purpose ran more swiftly and surely than one might suppose. The policies of arrogant and unsuspecting autocrats of Europe were known and discussed by these men who lived far from courts and kings. They recognized their own unnecessary suffering caused by the personal pride and ambition of far-away rulers. When the time came the colonial bands made quick steps along the trails to oppose the aggression of France from the north. Later on the Continental troops hastened along the highways to every front where the folly of their so-called "Rightful Sovereign," George the Third, summoned men who had learned to live orderly under law quite independent of kings.

The experiences of the French and Indian War served as a training for the greater events of the Revolution. In the first war, Westfield did her part, added to her honor roll of men dead in the name of liberty, and had ready at hand, Captain Warham Parks, Lieutenants John Shepard and Richard Falley* to lead a company of their fellow- townsmen to Boston when the news came from Lexington, while Lieutenant-Colonel William Shepard found opportunity for such talents as rightly make him the central figure in the present anniversary.

It is a significant fact that in every crisis Westfield has developed a competent leadership. Eldad Taylor, Elisha Parks, Captain John Moseley, John Phelps, Dr. Samuel Mather, Daniel Fowler and John Ingersoll were among those who so guided the community in determining "what measure may be best done to secure our privileges and whether it is advisable to take up government," that appropriations were duly made for carrying on the Revolutionary struggle, and that 250 men of Westfield, all the able bodied men of military age, were at one time or another in the war. In addition to this the town was kept steady in those most trying experiences of exhaustion and impoverishment that came in the period after the war. When mob rule threatened and some well-meaning patriots became a menace to the public order, Westfield furnished in General Shepard the man of sufficient command and civic wisdom to meet the crisis. He persuaded men having just grievances to further patient endurance, in order that they might prove themselves worthy of the estate of freemen, and by legislative enactment and constitutional procedure make secure that liberty for which they had fought.

With an independence characterizing democratic assemblies to this day, the town, in 1786, voted to accept the state constitution, excepting certain articles objected to by its committee; and in 1788 the town objected to the proposed constitution of the United States. Finding itself, however, possessed of a larger and more important citizenship the political consciousness of the town seems to have awakened. Party feeling ran high at the beginning of the nineteenth century, when it is recorded that the democratic or Jeffersonian party, under the leadership of Hon. Samuel Fowler, was usually victorious over the Federalists. This fact, in itself, is an indication of the radical type of political dissent which characterized the community.

The Town Meeting

field for all town purposes on week days, and equally free for all and each Religious Society or denomination in town." In 1837 the original part of the present town house was built on this land at an expense of $3,000, the building being designed for a high school as well as a town hall.

From the beginning the public business of the community was carried on in that most natural, fundamental and democratic of all assemblies, the town meeting. There, in open and free discussion, the affairs of the little community were considered, and the decisions were made by majority vote. Special committees were often appointed, but in general the business of the town was entrusted to selectmen. As we read over the long list of the town fathers, it is apparent that Westfield was a wise democracy, accustomed to select strong men who became their title to carry on its affairs. Five men constituted the board in the years from 1730 to 1844, but the earlier custom like the later has been to elect three.

A fine sense of the responsibility of the citizenship of freemen is evident in the record of 1698 when it was "voted, anyone failing to attend town meeting shall be fined one shilling for each neglect." Because of present conditions we read with interest of a vote in 1771 whereby, in accordance with an act of the General Court, there is established a scale of prices for merchandise and for labor. It was an evidence of early co-operative action, but we wonder whether the difficult problem of the relation of wages to the cost of living and the cost of living to wages was satisfactorily solved. Much attention was given to the rivers in town meetings. They are our well loved rivers and sources of our pride. But it is to be confessed that they have proved themselves to be avid, vagrant and unruly. Unmindful of the life upon their banks they have seized upon the deep loam that would fain enclose them and have hurried it out to sea. Unrestrained by old landmarks, they have made new channels for themselves or demanded that new ones be made for them if they were to be controlled. Impatient of the bridges, they have carried them away with great frequency. Several times breaking out of all bounds (1692, 1819, 1839, 1869, 1878) the Great River has searched out the heart of the town to its great loss. There have, then, been frequent appropriations to restrain the river, to rebuild bridges, to repair dikes, until by the wise engineering and large expenditures of 1879-1880 it is believed that the river has been taught its place.

There is evidence that the town meetings in general have been conducted with dignity and decorum, that they were attended in earlier periods by the body of the citizens, and that they were marked by serious and forceful discussion. I venture to speak especially of the town meetings in what I shall call the closing period of old Westfield, when among others Reuben Noble, H. B. Smith, Thomas Kneil, Joseph M. Ely, E. B. Gillett and L. F. Thayer were heard. Then we had the democratic forum at its best. I doubt if in any halls of legislation the conduct of business has been more efficient or the utterance of opinion surpassed in argument, effective illustration and real eloquence.

The purpose which animated the settlers of Westfield had its roots in religion. They felt that it was by the hand of God that they had become pilgrims and strangers in a new land. They sought the conditions of both civil and religious liberty. We are not surprised, then, to find church and state closely allied at the beginning. The town as such acted on the business affairs of the church, and on the town records are spread the votes that had to do with the material facts of the early religious history. The town meetings were held in the place of worship for many years.

The town called the minister, appointed him house and lands, and was responsible for his salary. Committees of the town built three meeting-houses and at the first assigned seats to the people. Some less important but interesting items may be noted. In 1678 Widow Noble and Edward Noble were to be paid two pounds, five shillings, for sweeping the house and beating the drum. In 1795 a committee of five was named "to confer with the singers and endeavor to revive and ameliorate the singing on the Sabbath." What happened to these rash men is not recorded. In 1812 $100 was voted for singing, the Baptists and the Methodists to be exempt from the tax. By a vote decided by the moderator the town voted in 1823 to furnish stoves for the meeting-house. A corporation was formed in 1816 to administer the ministerial fund, resulting from the sale of the "Ministry Lot" off Elm Street, which Samuel Root left to the ministry in 1712. It was as late as 1829 when the old church was made separate from the town.

One of the conditions of becoming a town was the seeking out and settling of a godly man for minister. Mr. Holyoke of Springfield ministered for six months and was invited to settle, but "as Mr. Holyoke did not give satisfaction he was allowed twenty pounds for his prayers, labors and charges." Moses Fiske was then minister for three years, but the first settled pastor, Edward Taylor, was waiting at Cambridge to be found and brought to Westfield in 1671 by Thomas Dewey, by a four day's horseback ride guided by the marked trees. It was eight years later when the church was organized with seven foundation men whose family names continue with us.

Mr. Taylor had been educated at an English University. He had been a vigorous advocate of Oliver Cromwell and of civil and religious liberty. An ardent anti-monarchist, he was a man well fitted to nourish and inform the spirit of democracy in the settlement. For fifty-eight years Mr. Taylor gave a leadership as preacher, doctor, educator and publicist that well became his office, leaving an impress that remains to this day.

Five men of such quality that they lived and died in the service of the parish brought the succession in the ministry of the old church down to 1866. The last of these was Emerson Davis, whose practical talents and genial personality won the regard of men. When his body was borne to its resting place on Pine Hill, some of us walked in the great procession of children who carried flowers to lay on the grave of their friend.

During the pastorate of Dr. Davis in 1856 the Congregational fellowship became so large that a new church was desirable. The second Congregational Church was formed by a colony of sixty- three from the old church. A church building was erected in 1862, since when this church has continued to serve the community with numbers and prosperity equal to that of the mother church.

It is one of the anomalies of history tha't dissenters from England developed an established church in New England. An ordered and vital religious organization was undoubtedly a necessity for the full realization of the purpose of the Puritan migration. Yet it remains true that the establishment bore hard upon the new groups of dissenters, and in time the old church failed to afford certain people a type of religious life that was grateful to them. Hence sprung that opposition and those contentions that accompanied the rise of sects in New England. These troubles seem to have been less evident in West field than in many places. The town, however, did drive out its first doctor, one George Filer, "who did confess that he entertained Quakers for the reason that none else would, and further that he would own before the world that he was one of them." He was ordered to pay a fine of five shillings or to be well whipt for venting his heterodoxy, absenting himself from public worship and scandalizing the community by his contemptuous speech of the word and work of the ministry, in saying "that they turn over twenty or thirty authors in a week to patch up an hour's discourse or two on the Sabbath."

The Baptists in early days often served as a needed irritant to the establishment in New England. In 1784 a First Church of that denomination, with a building near the County bridge, was organized by a group of people who had been members of the church in Suffield. This First Church, together with a Second Baptist Church which had been organized in 1787, in the district soon to become Russell, lived but a few years. In 1806 we find a reorganized First Baptist Church which later built a meeting-house near the Iron bridge and in 1819 a second one at West Farms, continuing as a united church until 1830 when the people at West Farms organized as a separate body, under the name Second Baptist Church. After an experience of division and a period of unrest, we find in 1833 the members of the First Baptist Church united and well established, as the Central Baptist Church, at the corner of Elm and Church Streets. In their new home, occupied in 1868, they became one of the four strong churches of the town.

Methodism came in by the way of *" Hoophole," where a church of that order has existed since 1794. The Methodists so recommended themselves that in 1830 the unusual step was taken of the town's purchasing a site for them on Main Street, where they became an independent church in 1836. In the commodious building with stores beneath on the corner of School Street, they so grew and flourished that in 1875 they dedicated this great building in which we are gathered where, as the largest Protestant body in the city, * West Parish, - now Mundale.

Episcopacy had little opportunity in the average New England settlement for a century and a half. [It is recorded that about the time of the Revolution, Episcopal Church services were held in Southwick which was then included in the township of Westfield. But the Tory sentiments of the officiating clergymen led to the determination that "Episcopacy shall never be established in Westfield"]; and it is some evidence of the persistence of the original Puritan type in this community that there was little demand here for an Episcopal Church before 1863.

The reinforcement and change in population, and some change in thought, have finally given that church a real field of service and established it on permanent foundations.

By the organization of an Advent Church in the Bicentennial year and its recent occupancy of its new church home the circle of Protestant churches in the city has completed itself, and this, happily, with less diversity of name and with a larger unity than prevails in most towns of the size of Westfield.

Education In The Democratic Community

In that remarkable and forward looking program of the English Labor Party put out last year the ideal of the opportunity for a full education for all was set forth convincingly. This was the noble democratic idea of the Puritans. They desired to provide the best possible instruction for all. They set the school beside the meeting-house symbolizing the importance of education. The law of 1647 in Massachusetts contemplated a great and wise system of public schools for the education of the whole people. Where there were fifty families there must be a school, and where there were one hundred families there must be a grammar school to fit for college. The early settlers undertook to carry out the provisions of the law as best they could. Before 1678 parents taught their children under penalty of a fine for neglect of duty. Their education was to include perfect reading of the English tongue, a knowledge of the capital laws, the grounds and principles of religion, and the bringing up of the children and apprentices in some honest, lawful calling, labor or employment, profitable to themselves or the commonwealth. As one considers these requirements he has before him a program of education that the present day might well emulate.

To the first schoolmaster, who evidently did not remain long, the town assigned a home lot and two tracts of outlying land, with an allowance for teaching. There was a provision that in order to secure proper respect the wife of the schoolmaster should be accommodated with a pew next to the magistrates. The first schoolhouse was built in 1701. The second was built near the old Main Street school in 1753. A grammar school was opened in 1724, with Mr. Bull for teacher. Mr. Bull was the assistant minister and was allowed Friday and Saturday in which to get his sermon.

But it must be confessed that in Westfield, as in all the commonwealth, the ideal while cherished was very imperfectly realized. Not until the last decades of the nineteenth century was the educational system at all adequate. The lack of schoolmasters is given as one reason for the founding of academies, so generally done at the end of the eighteenth century. The Westfield Academy opened in 1800 was the first in Western Massachusetts, and evidences the sincere purpose of this town to advance education as they "rejoiced that this happy lot has fallen to us that we have an opportunity to impart a small portion of our property in laying the foundation of so useful an institution." For many years this school provided unusual advantages for the youth of West field and added to the life of the town that interest which attaches to an educational center. Emerson Davis, later a member of the first State Board of Education, was preceptor for fourteen years, and of William Goldthwaite, a later principal, men of the last generation were wont to speak with gratitude. In 1867 the Academy, yielding to changing conditions, was practically merged into the High School, where for many years Abner Gibbs, that great teacher and rare spirit, awakened and inspired youth, ably seconded for a time by Sarah M. Kneil whose helpfulness to the young people of an earlier day will not soon be forgotten.

The selectmen had been the School Board until 1826 when a separate school committee was elected. The lower schools struggled on under the district system until 1863, when the town system was adopted and two grammar schools were opened. The establishment in 1844 of one of the State Normal Schools was of special advantage to the local enterprise of education. In recent years the High School, in an enlarged building and competently led, has become an important institution. By the adoption of modern methods in the schools at large, by enlarging appropriations and equipment, the New Westfield is gradually achieving the main features of the democratic ideal of education which the fathers cherished but were unable to realize.

Industry In A Democratic Community

The first settlers left the pleasant scenes and accustomed occupations of England for far other than economic considerations. They did not adventure the sea and the wilderness to hunt and to fish, to appropriate new acres, or to buy and sell and get gain. But the success of any ideal undertaking involves an adequate material setting. It should never be forgotten that the fathers' purpose was achieved only as the result of such hard and protracted labor as the temper of the present seems to disdain. Their success depended upon a thrift, a self-denial, and a simplicity of life such as this self-indulgent, pleasure-seeking age appears to scorn. It may well be that the nation they helped to found, and the newly created democracies which are its associates, may be compelled to learn that a democratic world-order cannot succeed except as honest and sustained labor produces and self-denial and thrift conserve the material resources sufficient to appease physical hunger and to make possible the satisfaction of the soul cravings.

Beaver skins, turpentine, rosin, tar and bricks were the first products marketed by the settlers, but the rich alluvial soil made Woronoco in more senses than one "fat hunting." Its first real development was as a village of independent and prosperous farmers, a type of citizen naturally tenacious of an ordered democratic life. Farming has remained a leading industry, although great areas of tobacco have appropriated the acres where once diversified crops grew. The farms long remained centers of varied industries which largely supplied the wants of the household. In time the little shops of the blacksmith, of the wheelwright and other artisans appeared by the wayside. In these shops master craftsmen, with honest pride in their work, turned out products warranted to last. As industrial life changed, the country store became more of a feature in the town and in 1813 the splendid structure of the "Brick Store" appeared at the center among the less pretentious wooden buildings, forerunner of much other brick construction in which has been carried on the lucrative trade of the enlarging town and the outlying communities.

Saw and grist mills (Vi4 of wheat and l/u of corn for the miller) were built very early on the streams and then on the rivers. Some of these mills continued to be of importance far into the nineteenth century. At Springdale, at Morton's mill and at Cowles' mill the older industry made way for the manufacture of paper, while the power at Great River was appropriated for the use of varied industries. Westfield like many other villages in New England developed a characteristic industry, the manufacture of whips, which continues with full success. This business gave scope for the abilities of a competent group of men like Hiram Hull, Jasper R. Rand, Hiram Harrison, Henry J. Bush and Reuben Noble. As the whip salesmen went through the land, first with their peddlers' carts and later with sample cases, they carried the name of West field far and wide. About 1840 the manufacture of cigars was begun. The business grew to relatively large proportions and the letter heads of some old firms read "Whips and Cigars." The piano leg factory disappeared and we failed to maintain the interesting business of building organs, but other lucrative industries have been established so that the farming village has become a manufacturing community, with the evident problems of industrial democracy.

The Coming Of The Celt

One of the most important features of the story of the town in the last century was the coming of the Celtic people to this region. It was a part of the great migration of the Irish stock to this country. As the early settlers had cleared the land and built the roads, these new people, forced out of their own land by the hard experiences of overlordship and famine, came with their brawn and willing minds to do their share of foundation laying, by building the canals, the railroads and other public works of their adopted country. These young and active men and women also lifted a part of the work which had become too burdensome for the shoulders of the farmers in their cleared fields and of their wives in their busy kitchens. Westfield like other places waited for the coming of these Irish people and their service has been invaluable. And here I am constrained to pay a heartfelt tribute, in which I am sure not a few of my generation will join, to an early group out of Ireland, who by their friendly interest, their honest toil, their unfailing loyalty found a sure place in the affection and home life of many Yankee families, and did much to make that home life possible.

The first Irish immigrants came in the second quarter of the last century as builders of the canal and the Western Railroad. By the middle of the century they were well established here. By immigration and a high birth rate the stock has increased until it has become a strong people, who by talent and industry have enriched themselves and added to the prosperity of the town.

The devotion of these people to religion has been evident. The first mass of record was said in 1851 in the town hall, on the site free for all religious societies. The first Catholic Church was occupied in 1853. Father Carroll became the first resident pastor in 1862. By the long pastorate of Rev. Thomas Smythe the parish wa's greatly extended and strengthened ; today the English-speaking Catholics of Westfield number some 3,500, in two parishes, with large resources, and having a full equipment of worthy ecclesiastical buildings. These people, in accordance with their genius, have become influential in the civic life of the town. They have taken a full share in the wars of the republic. They are a people desirous of liberty and we trust them to maintain with the older stock the traditions of a democratic community.

The Ancient Names And The Growth In Population

We are interested in the spirit that animated them rather than in the numbering and naming of the independent, liberty-loving Anglo-Saxons whose intention it was to help form a Christian commonwealth, all the members of which should understand and obey the laws of God and of the state. Yet there is an interest in noting how "the little one became a thousand," and it is a matter of true sentiment that leads us to record and cherish their names.

In 1669, the year of the incorporation of the town, twenty-four names are given of those who were landholders, and in 1676 the population was estimated to be 150. A study of the early lists of grants and the table of selectmen gives us with very few exceptions names that have been perpetuated to this day. These important and enduring names are: Ashley, Dewey, Fowler, Ingersoll, Loomis, Lee, Moseley, Noble, Phelps, Root, Sackett, Taylor, Weller. The names Kellogg, Shepard and Bush were added early in the eighteenth century. The Board of Selectmen for one hundred and fifty years, with only here and there an exception, was made up from these families. These were the names usually appended to important documents. They predominate in the lists of soldiers who went to the French and Indian and of those who fought in the Revolution. There are other names of great significance to the story of Westfield, some of which happily are being perpetuated as family names, but these that have endured for two centuries and a half in this countryside are of special interest at this time.

Fifty years after incorporation Westfield consisted of 107 households. The Massachusetts census in 1765 made Westfield the second town in the region with 1,324 inhabitants. At the time of the first United States census in 1790, Westfield with a population of 2,204 was larger than Springfield. For some twenty years the population was stationary. Then the town, assuming the features of a pleasant and prosperous village, grew steadily to a population of 4,180 at the middle of the century.

Westpield, Massachusetts

outlets for trade. Industries, employing native stock for the most part, grew in importance. Public improvements were begun. The challenge of the Civil War was adequately met and sixty more sons of Westfield gave up their lives that the principle of liberty might more fully prevail. Aspects of village life remained after the war, but by the end of the second century Westfield with a population of some 6,500 had been transformed into a town.