Winchendon Town

Winchendon Town

At a legal Meeting of the Proprietors of the Township granted to Mr. Abraham Tilton and others &c., at the house of Mr. Nath'l Tredvvell in Ipswich on Thursday, 27th Oct., A. D., 1737, and continued by an adjournment to Thursday 3d day of November following to meet at the said Tredwell's, and met accordingly.

Voted, That the aforesaid acco't be allowed, and that the sum of six pounds and thirteen shillings be paid out of the Proprietors' treasury to John Choate, Esq. in full discharge of his account.

Voted, That the sum of sixty one pounds and six shillings be paid out of the Proprietors' Treasury to Thomas Berry esq. in discharge of the accounts of Messrs, Wheeler, Parker, Wetherbee, Richardson, Bellows, and the two surveyors, for laying out the first division in the Township. Oct. 27, 1737. The Community of Ipswich Canada Dr.

Voted, That the sum of twelve pounds and fifteen shillings be paid out of the treasury to Lieut. Al)raliam Tilton in full discharge of his acccunt.

Voted, That 13 shillings per day be allowed, and paid out of the treasury, to each of those that assisted in lotting out the Township, being 17 days each, viz : John

To the Committee that went to view the Township namely, Edward Eveleth, Abraham Tilton, Solomon Giddinge, John Martin and Isaac Giddinge, Sept. 28 to Oct. 1736, to 9 days each at I5s pr. day, .£33-15-0 To paid John Bennett the pilot, 3-00-0

Edward Eveleth. Voted, That the sum of thirty six pounds and fifteen shillings be . paid out of the treasury to the Committee aforesaid in discharge of their accounts.

Voted, That this meeting be adjourned to this day three weeks at 4 of the clock afternoon, to meet at this place : And met accordingly. Col. Thos. Berry, Moderator.

The above cited extract, togetlier witli the following note adduced from Mr. Torrey's valuable History of the Town of Fitchburg, will show the value of labor and services about one century ago. The currency and common mode of reckoning then was old tenor.

" As many of my readers, at the present day, would probably find it difficult to determine the difference between ' Old Tenor' and * Lawful Money,' I will here add that in the year 1702 recourse was had in the New England provinces to a paper currency to support the expenses of the government, and furnish a substitute for a circulating medium. The bills purported that they would be redeemed at a certain time, which was done at first, but it soon became customary to redeem them by new emissions. This being done pretty liberally, they began to depreciate in value. In Massachusetts, where their value was kept up better than in the other provinces, the depreciation was at the rate of seven and a half for one in specie. This currency acquired the name of Old Tenor - seven shillings and six pence being equal to only one shilling in silver, which was called ' Lawful money,' orninepence sterling of Great Britain.

In the year 1750, the government of Great Britain made a grant of a sum of money to Massachusetts to remunerate the province for its exertions in the late war with France. Governor Hutchinson proposed that this sum, which was sent over in dollars and parts of dollars, should be appropriated to redeem the whole of the bills of credit of the province. This proposition, after much opposition, was carried into eflect ; and eventually it was productive of much good. Accordingly the circiilcition of Old Tenor bills was finally stopped on the 31st of March, 1750. The last emission of the Old Tenor bills was made by Gov. Shirley in order to defray the expenses of the expedition against Cape Breton in 1745. This he did contrary to the express orders of the king to put a stop to them : but as the plan was successful, no notice was taken of this breach of orders."

The young reader may naturally inquire the reason of this month February being in tiie same year with the previous October. For information this note is inserted. The Old Style was in use and the year began on the 25th of March, until 1752 ; after which the year began on the 1st of January.

Whereas the legal supputation of the year of our Lord in England according to which the year beginneth on the 25th day of March, hath been found by experience to be attended with divers inconveniences - therefore - Be it enacted, That the said supputation, according to which the year of our Lord beginneth on the 25th day of March, shall not be made use of from and after the lust day of

December, 1751 ; and tliat the first day of January next following the said last day of December, shall be reckoned, taken, deemed and accounted to be the first day of the year of our Lord 1752. And that from and after the first day of January 1752, the several days of each month shall go on a«nd be reckoned and numbered in the same order as they now are until the second day of September in the said year 1752 inclusive; and that the natural day next immediately following the said second day of September shall be called, reckoned and accounted to be the fourteenth day of September, omitting for that time only the eleven intermediate days of the common calendar. - Vide Arts and Laws of Massachusetts Bai/,fol. Boston Ed. 1759,2^1). 351, 352.

Voted, That there be a cartway cut from Dorchester Canada meeting house lot, on the nearest and most convenient way that can be found from Dorclicster Canada road, to the center of the lots as laid out in the Township of the said Ipswich Canada, and make such bridges and causeys as are absolutely necessary for making the way passable.

Voted, That 4 acres be cleared in the meeting house lot, in the most convenient place for erecting the meeting house, and be sowed with herds grass; and that Col. Berry, Capt. Eveleth, Mr. Davis, Lieut. Giddinge, Mr. Martin, Mr. Lord, Thos. Brown, or any three of them, be desired to view the meeting house lot, and agree v/hcre to

Voted, That 20 shillings be raised and assessed on each original Right, to be paid into the treasury by the first day of May next, to lie there for the encouragement of such persons as shall build a Sawmill, to be paid out by the Proprietors' order to the persons with whom they shall hereafter agree.

Voted, That Col. Berry be empowered and directed to agree with some proper persons to clear a road that shall be marked out by the Proprietors of Payqueage, from the line of the township to the town road. - Proprietors^ Book.

Voted, That Col. Tho. Berry, Messrs. Wm. Brown and Samuel Dodge be Committee to build a cornmill in the most convenient place, and for the best advantage of the Proprietors, taking the best advice therefor.

Voted, That Col. Tho. Berry, Messrs. Wm. Brown and Samuel Dodge be directed and empowered to treat and agree with Joseph Priest, or his son, or some other black-

Voted, That Messrs. Wm. Brown, Francis Goodhue and Moses Wells, or either two of them, be a Committee to run the line and renew tlie bounds between the Townships of Ipswich Canada and Dorchester Canada and any of the Townships that join on Ipswich Canada,

Ipswich May 25th 1751. We the subscribers being a Committee appointed by the Proprietors of Ipswich Canada Township to run the line and renew the bounds between the Township of Ipswich Canada and Dorchester Canada, and any of the Townships that join on Ipswich Canada. We have accordingly proceeded on said business, and have run the lines and marked the trees between Ipswich Canada and Dorchester Canada : and Ipswich Canada and Narraganset

Voted, That Col. Thomas Berry, Col. Daniel Appleton, and William Brown, be a Committee to assist the Clerk in making a report to the General Court. - Proprietors^ Book.

Extracts from the Proprietors' Book of Records. At a legal meeting of the Proprietors of Ipswich Canada January 29th 1752. Voted, That the sum of one hundred pounds, old tenor, be paid out of the treasury to each of the first families that shall build a dwelling house and settle a family in the aforesaid Township : provided, they shall build and settle by the first of November next : provided also, that they enter their names with the Clerk, at, or before the first of April next ; and give to the Treasurer a good and sufficient bond, with surety, to perform the above conditions; and keep a family there for the space of three years from the said first of November : The number of said families entitled to said hundred pounds, not to exceed ten.

It appears from tradition as well as from the Proprietors' Book of Records, that there were several block houses or buildings made of hewn logs, erected and occupied for garrisons ; viz. one on the plain near Bullard's mill ; one,* near the south end of the meeting house common, which Dea. Moses Hale occupied as a dwelling for some time before removing into his own dwelling house ;

* Mary Holt, the first child born within the limits of wliat is now Winchendon, was born in this house, Nov. 15, 1753. It is said that then there were but six women in the Township. She was married to Air. Jonathan Bosworth of Koyalston. bho was left a widow. i?ho died Jan. 25, 1847, aged 93 yrs. 1 mo. 10 d.

one, near the east line of the farm of Mr. Jacob Hale, senior, which he occupied as a dwelling house within the memory of the writer ; one near where Dea. Desire Tolnian afterward lived, and one where Mr. Benjamin Kidder afterwards lived.

Voted, That Col. Thomas Berry and Mr. Thomas Wilder, or either of them, be a Committee fully authorized and empowered to petition the next Sessions of the Peace in the County of Worcester, in order to establish a way from Lunenburg meeting house through Dorchester Canada, Narragansett No. 2, to Ipswich Canada, and so far as Ipswich Canada extends : and if they cannot be accommodated there, to apply to the General Court for the ends aforesaid.

Voted, That the Proprietors will be at the charge of four days preaching in Ipswich Canada ; one day in August next, and the other three days in October or November : and that Mr. Abijah Smith be desired to take care and procure a suitable person to preach.

Voted, That Messrs. Thomas Wilder and Abijah Smith be a committee to prepare stuff in order to build a meeting house the next spring. - Proprietors' Boole.

This house, built about 1752 by Mr. Richard Day, is the one which stands on high ground west of the meeting house common, and which afterwards was owned by Rev.

Mr. Brown, now owned by Rev. Mr. Bullard. There was a house built, probably about the same time, where Mr. Wm. B. Whitney's house is, which was occupied as a Tavern for many years, successively by Matthew Knight, Samuel Griggs, Francis Bridge, Bemsly Lord, Joshua Gale, Luther Stimson, James McElwain and Phinehas Whitney. And a house was built near the burying ground and occupied by James Mansfield. Also a house was built near the common, south west, and was occupied by Gabriel Pouchey.* And a house was built by Col. Thomas Berry where Deacon Desire Tolman afterward lived.

Voted, That the mill road where it is dangerous, and impossible to pass without, be mended and repaired, and Col. Thomas Berry have the oversight thereof.

Voted, That the meeting house frame be granted to Col. Thomas Berry, to enable him to build a suitable and convenient room, to be allowed as a house for the Proprietors to meet in, on the sabbath days, for public worship. - Proprietors' Jiook.

* Nathan Pouchey was the first male child born in tlie Township. He was therefore entitled to a lot of land in the Township ; which he received when he arrived at the age of 21 years. He died in the revolutionary array. -

Voted, That the sum of three hundred pounds, old tenor, be raised in order to fortify the Township : fifty pounds of which is to fortify Mr. Darling's house, and fifty pounds to fortify Mr. Boynton's house, and one hundred pounds toward defraying the acct. of fortifying Thomas Jewett's house.

Voted, That Col. Thomas Berry's house shall be fortified, and that one hundred pounds, old tenor, be allowed therefor, the said Berry to pay what farther sum shall be needed to complete the garrison, which he agreed to.

From the records of the numerous votes of the Proprietors, respecting the support of preaching in the Township antecedently to the settlement of a minister, one more extract will be here inserted.

Voted, and raised two dollars on each original Right to pay for preaching in said Township. Also, that the Committee be ordered to provide a preacher half the sabbaths. - Proprietors^ Book.

Voted, That for encouragement, two dollars be granted on each original Right, to any person or persons, that shall undertake and build a gristmill in said Township, and keep said mill in repair, and grind for the inhabitants for lawful toll, for the term often years : and that the money shall be paid as soon as the mill is fit to grind. Also 100 acres of land, with the stream, be given by said Proprietors for further encouragement to the person or persons, that shall undertake and build said mill. - Proprietors' Book.

Voted, That the Surveyors already chosen [namely, John Moffat, Jacob Gould and Richard Day,] are hereby ordered to build a bridge in said Township over Miller's river on the county road to Royalshire,* out of the money

Voted, That the Committee be empowered to see that the said meeting house be hewed, framed and raised, the outside boarded, shingled, and clapboarded, window sashes, and glass put up, door heads and doors be made, the lower floor be laid, and the frame be underpinned with convenient stones.

Voted, and chose Messrs. Benjamin Goodridge, Richard Day and Bartholomew Parsons, to be a Committee to view and stake out a meeting house plat.

Laid out five acres of land for a meeting house, training field and burying yard, on the Northwest corner of the lot No. 1 in the South division, beginning at the Northwest corner bound, running south 48 rods, on line of said lot^ then easterly 16 1-2 rods, then running northerly^a parallel line with the west line 48 rods, and then to the place where we began. Benjamin Goodridge,

Voted, That the Proprietors will accept the land laid out by the Committee, on lot No. 1 South Division for the use of the meeting house, training field and burying yard* - there being reference made on said lot for that purpose by the Propriety at their meeting on the 27th of Oct. A. D. 1737 - nothwithstanding a former vote passed by the Proprietors at their meeting held Nov. 1, 1759, to accept of the report of the Committee to set the meeting house on lot No. 30, finding that place not accommodable : And the Committee chosen to build said meeting house, to raise the house on the plat where they judge most convenient. - Proprietors' Book.

Vo History Of Winchendon

Voted, That the Proprietors will join with the inhabitants in a petition to the General Court, that Ipswich Canada may be incorporated into a Town.

June 23, Voted, That a tax of one penny per acre be laid on all the lands that are already laid out in Ipswich Canada, for the term of three years.

Voted, That Benjamin Goodridge, esq. and Daniel Bixby be a Committee to draft a petition in order to send to the Great and General Court, that Ipswich Canada may be incorporated into a Town, and the lands taxed according to the above vote. - Proprietors' Book,

Whereas the inhabitants of the Plantation called Ipswich Canada in the County of Worcester, labor under many difficulties and inconveniences by means of their not being a Town : Therefore,

Be it enacted by the Governor, Council and House of Representatives, That the Plantation commonly called and known by the name of Ipswich Canada, in the County of Worcester, bounded as follows, viz : South twelve degrees west, seven miles and two hundred rods on Dorchester Canada ; west eighteen degrees south, two hundred and seventy rods on Westminster ; north thirty-six degrees west, four miles and two hundred and twenty rods on Ten.* pleton line ; north seventy-eight degrees west, six hundred rods on Templeton line ; north twelve degrees east, four miles and two hundred and sixty rods on Royalshire ; south seventy-eight degrees west,* six miles on Royalshire line ; be and hereby is erected into a Town, by the name of Winchendon : and that the inhabitants thereof be, and hereby are invested with all the powers, privileges and immunities, which the inhabitants of the towns within the province do or may enjoy.

And be it further enacted, That there be laid on the lands already laid out in the said Town of Winchendon, a tax of one penny per acre for the term of three years.

And be it further enacted. That Edward Hartwell, esq. be and hereby is empowered to issue his warrant, directed to some principal inhabitant in said Town, requiring him to warn the inhabitants of the said Town, qualified to vote in Town affairs, to meet at such time and place as shall be therein set forth, to choose all such officers as are or shall be required by law to manage the affairs of the said Town. - Acts and Laws of Massachusetts Bay,fol. Boston Ed. 1759, p. 458.

An English historian states that " In tlie month of December," 1706, -* Her Majesty," Queen Anne, " conferred the following honors, viz: Thomas Lord Wharton"

It has been handed down by tradition that sometime before the township was settled, a hunter by the name of Denison got lost in the woods, which was tall and thick in that region. He climbed a tree with a view to look out, and descried the pond, which from this circumstance, was named Denison's pond.

At a meeting legally warned, Nov. 5, 1764, of the free holders and other inhabitants of Winchendon to assemble and meet at the house of Richard Day : then and there being assembled proceeded in manner as follows, viz :

Extracts from the records. At a meeting legally warned of the free holders and other inhabitants of Winchendon to assemble at the public meeting house in said town on Monday the 1 1th day of March, 1765. Then and there, being assembled, proceeded in the following manner, viz.

Silas \yhitney, |, Ho.-reeves. Samuel Titus, ) Daniel Bixby, Sealer of leather. Richard day, Sealer of weights and measures. Joseph Stirason, Field driver.

Bartholomew Pearson, Surveyor of boards and shingles. Daniel Goodridge, Collector of the land tax. The officers for the present year were chosen and sworn as the law directs.

At a legal meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of Winchendon qualified by law to vote in town affairs, on the fifteenth day of February, A. D. 1773.

Voted to chose a Committee consisting of five persons to prepare a draft to lay before the town, of such measures as may be thought proper for the town to come into, in order to defend their rights and liberties. Chose Messrs. Moses Hale ^

Dudley Perley j Voted, and consented to the proceedings of the town of Boston in their stating the rights of the Colonists, as they are set forth in a pamphlet sent by a Committee of Correspondence in Boston to the Selectmen of Winchendon. Voted, and adjourned this meeting to Monday the first day of March next, two of the clock in the afternoon, at the meeting house in Winchendon.

At a len-al meetincr of the freeholders and other [inhabitants] of Winchendon, upon adjournment from the fifteenth day of February last, the Committee appointed the fifteenth day of February last, by the town of Winchendon legally assembled to consider the letter from the town of Boston, with their statement of rights of the Colonies, and the infringements made upon them, which was publicly read at the said meeting, beg leave to report, That from a full conviction of the propriety and expediency of the measure, they do recommend to the inhabitants of this town to pass the following Resolves, namely :

Province in particular, as men, as christians, and as subjects, and a list of infringements and violation of rights, as specified and set forth by the Committee of the town of Boston. We are of opinion that the rights of this Province are well and truly stated in said list, as they are well supported and warranted by the laws of God, of nature, of the realm of Great Britain and the charter of this Province ; that a list of infringements and violations of those rights and privileges inherent to the inhabitants of this Province are v/ell stated, vindicated and supported by a great variety of uncontestable facts, whereby it appears to us, by a list of the violations and infractions of our liberties and privileges as British subjects, transmitted to us as aforesaid, that the time is speedily hastening when we shall be reduced to the most abject slavery.

2. Resolved, that having consulted our charter, we find that, by the aforesaid infringements and violations, our rights and liberties, thereby derived, are sapped to the very foundation.

3. Resolved, that it is of the utmost importance [that] the Colonies in general, and the inhabitants of this Province in particular, stand firm as one man to support and maintain all their just rights and privileges.

4. Resolved, that this town will, at all times, heartily join with our brethren of this Province, and with every true friend to liberty in all lawful measures which may be proper, salutary and effectual for the redress of our grievances and the establishment of our charter rights, privileges and liberties.

o. Resolved, that this town choose a Committee to correspond with the Boston Committee and the Committees of other towns, to receive and communicate to the town all salutary measures that shall be proposed or offered by any other towns for removing the common grievances of this Province, and to communicate the sentiments of this town to the correspondent Committee of the other towns of this Province.

6. Resolved, that the united thanks of this town and of every true son of liberty and friend to the constitution of the Province is due to the town of Boston for their early and indefatigable zeal in endeavoring to preserve the constitutional rights and liberties of this Province.

Voted, That the Town Clerk be directed to record the foregoing Resolves in the town book of records, and to return an attested copy of the same to the Committee of Correspondence above chosen.

At a meeting of the town of Winchendon, August 4, 1774, Chose Mr. Eli Smith, Moderator for the government of said meeting. Chose Mr. Amos Merriam to join the Committee of Correspondence in the town in the room of John Homer, deceased.

Chose Mr. Moses Hale to meet the Committees that may be appointed by the several towns in this county at the widow Mary Stearns', at Worcester on the 9th day of August instant at 10 of the clock in the morning. Adjourned.

1. Resolved that we acknowledge ourselves true and liege subjects to His Majesty, King George 3d, and that we will, to the utmost of our power, defend his crown and dignity.

2. Resolved, that the charter of this Province is the basis of allegiance to His Majesty, the sacred obligation he is under to protect us his American subjects, and that all Acts of the British Parliament which tend to vacate our charter without our consent, have a tendency to destroy our allegiance to the king, and also the obligation he is under to protect us, his most loyal subjects, which, consequently reduce us to a state of nature.

3. Resolved, that those unconstitutional Acts lately passed in the British Parliament, wherein they claim a right to tax the Americans without their consent, and to alter our free Constitutions at their pleasure, has a direct tendency to break off the affections of His Majesty's true and loyal subjects in America, from the king, and therefore most certainly weaken the British nation, and will, if persisted in, unavoidably endanger, if not actually be a means of the destruction of the king, at the whole British realm.

4. Resolved, that we will, to the utmost of our power, oppose all such unconstitutional acts, which in our opinion are directly against the dignity of the king and the constitution of this Province, and are ready to risk our lives and fortunes in defence of our rightful sovereign, and to maintain our free constitution, in order to save ourselves and posterity from ruin and slavery, which seem, like a torrent, rushing in upon us.

5. Resolved, that we will do all that lies in our power to maintain peace and good order amongst us according to the laws of this Province; and that we will break off all dealings, as far as possible, with all officers who hold their commissions under unconstitutional laws.

6. Resolved, that those men who are appointed Counsellors by a mandamus from England, directly contrary to the charter of this Province, and have taken the oaths required to serve in that office, are destitute of any regard for the good of their country, and ought to be treated as open enemies to the once free constitution of this Province.

Voted and adjourned this present meeting to the third Thursday of September next at two of the o'clock, P. M. ---Town Records, B. \,pp, 184 - 187.

Voted, That every person from the age of 16 to 60 years old appear at the meeting house in Winchendon on Tuesday the 20th day of this instant September, at one of the clock in the afternoon.

Voted, That the town will indemnify Mr. Jer. Stuart, Constable, in his not returning a list of the persons qualified to serve as Jurors agreeable to a late Act of Parliament ; and he is hereby directed never to make such returns.

Voted, That the province taxes granted and levied upon the town of Winchendon, for the years 1772, 1773, and 1774, committed and soon to be committed to Thomas Sawyer, and Jeremiah Stuart, Constables of Winchendon, be paid to Henry Gardner, Esq. of Stow, as soon as conveniently may be : and the Constables are hereby ordered to pay the above said money as above voted ; and the town will hereby indemnify the above said Thomas Sawyer and Jeremiah Stuart in so doing, upon their pro-

Voted, That the town will assist the above Committee in carrying the above mentioned Association into execution, provided they proceed agreeably to the directions of the Provincial Congress.

At a legal meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of Winchendon, qualified by law to vote in the choice of a Representative, on the 4th day of July, 1776.

Whereas this town has been called upon by the Honorable House of Representatives of this Colony to signify their minds in regard of American independency ; being duly sensible of the cruel and oppressive measures which are pursued by the King and Parliament of Great Britain in order to enslave the Colonies, and consequently the difficulty that will attend our being ever again united with Great Britian, therefore.

nental Congress should think best for the safety of these Colonies to declare them independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain, that we will with our lives and fortunes support them in the measure. - Toion Records y B,l,p 206.

It was common, in those days, for towns to instruct their representatives at the General Court, upon the subject of grievances under which they were suffering, and which they wished to have redressed. This direct interference of the people with the State legislation, by means of instructions to their representatives, having been long discontinued, a recital of it now is rather a subject of curiosity.

At a meeting for choosing a Representative, May 27, 1777, the town chose a Committee of seven persons to draft instructions for the representative. The Committee were Ebenezer Sherwin, Thornton Barrett, Moses Hale, Daniel Goodridge, Richard Pearson, Abel Wilder, and Benjamin Brown.

Sir, You being legally appointed to represent the town of Winchendon in the Great and General Court the ensuing year, the town think proper to give you the following instructions, viz. That you use your influence to the utmost, to obtain a repeal of an Act, passed by the General Court in the close of their session in the year 1776, entitled an Act for a more equal represen- tation. And upon the repeal of said Act, to issue writs for the choice of a new House and then dissolve. And in case the said Act should not he repealed, not to proceed to any business, but return home. Toion Records, B. 1, page 349.

It may be interesting at this time, to give a slight sketch of the rate of the depreciation of the paper Continental currency. The bills began to depreciate in 1777. On the first of January 1777, it was at par. First of Jan, 1778, $1.00 specie was worth $4.50 Continental; first of Jan. 1779, $1.00 specie was worth $8.38 Continental; first of Jan. 1780, $1.00 specie was worth $32.50 Continental. In March, 1780, the town "voted and granted ,£5200, for repairing roads," and ''voted that a man have ^9. per day for labor on the roads." In July "^'5000 was granted for the purpose of hiring men for the war, and to defray other town charges ;" also granted $85 per day for 34 days service of the Delegates at the Convention for forming the State Constitution, making =£867." In Nov. following "c£13,598" more was "granted to defray town charges." Jan. 1, 1781, the town "voted and granted <£10,000 to procure beef that is now called for, and to help procure continental soldiers." March, "voted and granted c£8000 for making and mending roads," and voted that a man be allowed £15 per day for work on the roads." April 23, "voted that what money is due" to a certain individual "be paid ni/ic<i/ybr o;ic." March 14, 1782, the town voted, "That the Constable and Collectors be direc-

As the locating of this meeting house was, at the time, with much uneasiness, altercation and trouble, a more extended view of the transactions of the town may appear desirable, therefore such will be here transcribed from the records.

Voted, That said house be 60 feet in length, 50 feet in width, 27 feet posts, and a porch at each end of the house 10 feet on the house, 14 feet deep.

Voted, That there be 20 windows, 40 squares in each window, below, and 21, 35 squares in each, in the galleries ; the pulpit and gable end windows excepted.

Winchendon Nov. 1, 1790. At a public vendue held for the sale of the pews in the meeting house voted to be built at a meeting held on the 10th day of Sept. 1790, at the meeting house in Winchendon aforesaid, the pews were sold as follows, viz. No. 1 struck off to Capt. Daniel Hubbard for $40. No. 2 to Abner Curtice for 871. No. 3 to Moses Hale for |40. No. 31 to William Whitney for §62. No. 32 to Joseph Sweetser for |51. No. 33 to Dea. Moses Hale for $47. No. 44 to Doct. Israel Whiton for $49. No. 45 to Lieut. Joseph Boynton for $50. No. 50 to Abel Wilder for $50. No. 47 to Desire Tolman for $40, &:.c. Gallery pews. No. 1 struck off to Dea. Moses Hale for $24. No. 2 to Abel Wilder jun. for $17, &c. &c.

Voted to establish and confirm the pews, mentioned in the foregoing report, to the purchasers whose names are thereunto annexed and to their heirs and assigns forever,

Nov. 21, Voted to reconsider a vote passed in a former meeting in Nov. 1, 1790, which was to set the south sill of the new meeting house 30 feet north of the north sill of the old meeting house. Yeas 47, Nays 25.

Voted, to choose a Committee of seven persons to pitch upon a spot to set the meeting house on, and report at th^e adjournment of this meeting.

Voted, and chose Abel Wilder Esq. Dea. Samuel Preor tice, Doct. Ziba Hall, Lieut. John Burr, Mr. Thomas Graton, Mr. James Steel and Samuel, Crosby Esq. for the above Committee.

The Committee appointed on the 21 of this instant to view and report the most convenient spot to build a meet-. ing house upon, have attended that service, and a majority of that Committee agree that the meeting house be set 120 feet south of Luther Stimson's house, and C9 feet east of the stone wall by Mr. Brown's garden.

Dec. 26, voted to chose a Committee of six persons to review and pitch upon a spot to set the new meeting house and report at the adjournment of this meeting.

Voted, and chose Al)el Wilder Esq. Dea. Moses Hale, Samuel Crosby Esq., Mr. William Whitney, Benjamin Hall Esq., and Dea. Samuel Prentice, for the above Committee. Towji Records, B. 3, i^p. 81, 82.

for the, purpose of viewing the northerly part of the common, in order to see if the town can agree, unanimously, upon a spot of ground to set the new meeting house upon. After taking a view, the town met again : and after some debate, it was tried by a vote to see if the town will reconsider the vote passed at a late meeting respecting placing the meeting house in the northerly part of the common. Passed in the negative.

Then voted, that the Selectmen purchase a barrel of West India rum and a quantity of sugar sufficient to make it into toddy, and that it be expended partly upon the men that assist the day preceding the day set for raising the meeting house, in laying the timber in order for raising. And that the Selectmen see that it is properly dealt out ! !

Then voted to allow Ensign David Rice a sum of money over and above what he was heretofore agreed with to provide for those persons who raise the meeting house ; the sum to be determined by the rise of West India articles, since said Rice agreed to make provision for the raising.

May 7. Met according to adjournment, and, after some debate it was put to vote, to see if the town will agree to set the meeting house three rods southerly from the place lately agreed upon to build said house; and the town voted to reconsider their vote for placing said house 120 feet from the north side of the common ; and to set the north said house 170 feet from the north line of the common; and that the east end of said house should stand nearly on a ridge that was made by the east side of the field.

May 31. The town met and voted to choose a Committee of three persons to use their endeavors to settle matters of difficulty respecting the meeting house. Messrs. Thomas Graton, Amos Heywood and James Steel were chosen

June 15. Met, and after some debate, voted, that the Committee for building the meeting house, purchase such articles as are necessary to finish said house in the best way and manner they can, and go on with the work as soon as may be with convenience.

Voted, that Ensign David Rice be allowed for entertaining 11 more on the day the meeting house was raised over and above the 100 men he agreed to provide for, and that he be allowed in the same proportion for the 11 men as for the 100 : and also that he be allowed 16 s. 8 d. for what he found for those persons who belonged out of town, and assisted the second day in raising the roof of the meeting house.

Sept. 5. The meeting house meeting, (so called) was opened according to adjournment. The town granted the sum of c£150, in addition to the money raised by the sale of pew ground, to defray the charge of building the meeting house in said town.

Then voted, that the three Deacons, Hale, Prentice, and Moor, be a Committee to inform the Rev. Joseph Brown of the [vote of the] town respecting dismissing the old meeting house and dedicating the new one.

Dec. 31. The town met, according to adjournment, on the spot of ground where the old meeting house stood, and adjourned the meeting iatoMr. McElwain's east roomj and then met there and adjourned for half an hour, fotthe purpose of viewing the new meeting house ; then met again, and voted to accept of the new meeting house.

Then voted, that two pews in the gallery that were struck off toDea. Moses Hale, viz. No. 16 and No. 8, be transferred to Lieut. John Burr, and that thereupon all matters of difficulty heretofore subsisting between the town and said Hale and any individuals in the town concerning the new meeting house, shall subside, upon condition that the persons, who have purchased pews in said house, pay for the same in a reasonable time.

The town at a special meetmg held, Sept. 5, 1792, voted to build a wall and wharf round the new meeting house by a tax. Then the town granted the sum of .£100 to defray the charge thereof [The wall and wharf were completed in October 1792.]

At aYiother meeliiig of the town, Nov. ^1, 1794, Voted, and accepted of the meeting house Committee account, which is as follows. Cost of the meeting house c£8S9 10s. 9d.

In the warrant for town meeting of 11th Sept. 1815, was an article, To see if the town will make the ground where the body seats are in the meeting house, on any other ground into pews for the purpose of building a tower and cupola, or act on the matter as they think proper.

Meeting adjourned to 23d. Then voted. That the tower and cupola or steeple be built on condition it can be done free from any expense to the town, other than the ground for 6 pews on the lower floor and 10 pews in the gallery and the old porch and seats. Town Records, D. 3, pp. 388, 389, 392.

At the same meetincr a Presentment of the Church Bell to the town of Winchendon, (in behalf of the Proprietors,) by a Committee chosen by the subscribers, was made on the following conditions - That the town shall keep it in good and sutiicient repair, cause it to be rung and tolled at the customary times, and a suitable and decent manner - and cause, by their vote, this representation of the said subscribers by their Committee, together with the names of the subscribers who have purchased by their liberality the said Church Bell, with the sum that each individual has aiven therefor, to be entered and enrolled on the records of the town.

Then voted, and tendered their thanks to the Proprietors of the Bell for their great generosity and benevo* lence. Toicn Records, B. S, pp. 413 - 415.

At a legal meeting of the Proprietors of Ipswich Canada assembled and met at the house of Mr. Richard Day, innholder at Ipswich Canada June 30, 1762.

Voted, That the Proprietors will give to Mr. Daniel Stimpson the minister's Right [of Land] granted by the Court and £00 of money as a settlement, provided he will settle and perform the office of a gospel minister in the township : and also to give him ^60 salary, so long as he shall carry on the work of the ministry, in said township. At a meeting Nov. 17, 1762, It was put to vote to see if the Proprietors would make any alteration in their former [vote] respecting Mr. Daniel Stimpson's salary.

Voted, That instead of giving the said Daniel Stimpson sixty pounds salary so long as he shall carry on the minisr try^to give him sixty pounds yearly so long as he shall continue our minister in said township. Proprietors' Book. At a legal meeting of the Proprietors of Ipswich Canada, so called, that assembled and met at the house of Mr. Richard Day, innholder in said township, on Nov. 17, 1762. Voted, That Mr. Daniel Stimpson be ordained the loth day of December next : and that the church in Weston, the church in Harvard, the church in Lunenburcr, and the church in Dorchester Canada, be sent to, to assist in his ordination.

Voted, That Bartholemew Parsons, Richard and Samr uel Titus, be a Committee to send letters missive to the above named churches to assist in the ordination of Mr. Daniel Stimpson, in the name of the Proprietors.

Voted, to allow Richard Day ^4 in order to enable him to entertain the Council, and Mr. Stimpson's relations, at his ordination. Proprietors' Book.

which was sometimes called the Half way covenant* The origin of the practice is found at large in Mather's Magnalia, and in Hubbard's General History of New England.

Mr. Hubbard says, The affairs of the church in New EncTJand were hitherto ordered according to the platform of discipline set forth in 1648, but in the beginning of this lustre [i. e. the 5 years from 1656 to 1661] some difficulties beo-an to arise about enlarging the subject of baptism, which unto this time had been administered unto those children only, whose immediate parents were admitted into full communion in the churches where they lived. But now the country came to be increased, and sundry families were found that had many children born in them, whose immediate parents had never attempted to join to any of the churches, to which they belonged, and yet were very much dissatisfied that they could not obtain baptism for their children, although themselves made no way to be admitted to the Lord's supper. The case was generally apprehended to be difficultly circumstanced, as things had hitherto been carried on amongst those churches, and did occasion many debates between the ministers of the country, many of which were willing to have baptism enlarged to those in that capacity, but knew not well how to bring the matter about, with the peace of their churches, where many of their people were very scrupulous about any innovation.

send down several of them about this subject to the magistrates of the ]Massachusetts,and they mutually called together sundry of the ablest ministers of each colony - and they met and held their disputation at Boston in New England, June 4, 1757. One question debated was this, Whether the child, admitted by his father's covenant, be also a deputy for his seed, without or before personal covenanting ; or without or before like personal qualifications in kind, as his father was to enjoy when he became a deputy ? Reply. It is the duty of infants who confederate in their parents, wiien grown up to years of discretion, though not yet fit for the Lord's supper, to own tlie covenant they made with their parents, by entering thereinto in their own* persons : and it is the duty of the church to call upon them for the performance thereof; and if being called upon they shall refuse the performance of this frreat duty, or otherwise continue scandalous, they are liable to be censured for the same by the church. And in case they understand the grounds of religion, are not scandalous, and solemnly own the covenant in their own persons, wherein they give up themselves and their children unto the Lord, and desire baptism for them, we (with due reverence to any godly, learned, that may dissent,) see not sufficient cause to deny baptism unto their children. This proposition was consented unto by a synod, called to meet at Boston, not long after, viz. 1662. - See Hubbard's General Hist, of N. E. Chap. 64. See also Mather's Magnalia.

Mr. Hubbard further siys, In the beginning of this lustre [i. e. from 1661 to 1666] some questions were raised amongst the churches and people of the Massachusetts; one was about the extent ot baptism, viz. Whether the children of some parents might not be admitted to baptism, though they themselves were never admitted to full communion with the church, at the Lord's table ; about which case, the country was strangely divided.

From their answer to the 1st question propounded to them by order of the general court, which question is, Who are the subjects of baptism ? several propositions are here quoted, viz. Answer. The answer may be given in the following propositions. 1, They that, according to scripture, are members of the visible church, are the subjects of baptism. 2. The members of the visible church, according to scripture, are confederate visible believers in particular churches, and their infant seed, i. e. children in minority, whose next parents are one or both in covenant. 3. The infant seed of confederate visible believers are members of the same church with their parents ; and, when grown up, are personally under the watch, discipline and government of the church. 4. Those adult persons are not therefore to be admitted to full communion, merely because they are and continue members, without such further qualifications as the word of God requireth thereunto. 5. Such church members, who are admitted in minority, understanding the doctrine of faith, and publicly professing their assent thereunto, not scandalous in life, and solemnly owning the covenant before the church, wherein they give up themselves and their children to the Lord, and subject themselves to the government of Christ in the church, their children are to be baptized. - Hubbard's General Hist, of N. E. Ch, 67. Mather's Magnalia.

Mr. Brown never delivered up the church records to his successor, nor to the church, owing to which circumstance, there is a great chasm in the ecclesiastical history of this town.

In the latter part of the year 1819, the church and town being completely united in him, unanimously gave him a call, with an offer of $G50 annual salary, and $200 settlement. Jan. 20, 1820, he gave an answer in the negative. Mar. 6, 1820, the church and town renewed their call with the same offer in all respects as before. March 13, 1820, Mr. Clark gave his answer to the second call in the negative.

After Mr. Elam Clark left Winchenden, it was said he preached in several places. In Tiverton, R. I. he preached as a candidate, with nearly the same remarkable circumstances, of two calls and refusals, as at Winchendon. lie was afterwards settled as pastor of a congregational church in Providence, R. I. - continued there about one year, and was dismissed at his own request. He previously married the daughter of a wealthy farmer from Suffield, Ct. and retired to that place for a time after leaving

Ordination. Ordained - on Thursday, Nov. 19, Mr. Malachi Bullard, Jr. Pastor of the First Congregational Church in Winchendon. Invocation and reading of the Scriptures by Rev. A. P. Marvin of Winchendon North ; sermon by Rev. L Sabin of Templeton; ordaining prayer by Rev. J. M. Whiton of Antrim, N. H. ; charge to the pastor by Rev. S. S. Smith of Westminster; right hand of fellowship by A. C. Perkins of Phillipston ; address to the people by W. R. Stone of Gardner ; concluding prayer by Rev. Mr. Burnham of Rindge, N. H.

The churches sent to, and that were represented in this Council, were the First Congregational church in Royal- Bton, the Congregational church in Rindge, N. H. the Congregational church in Templeton, and the First Con- gregational church in Winchendon : Rev. Mr. Rice of Winchendon was also invited. At the time of the organization of the church, the public services and exercises were held and transacted in the Methodist Chapel, and were as follows. Prayer by Rev. Mr. Rice ; the confession of Faith and the Covenant were read by Rev. Mr. Sabin, the Scribe, and was assented to by the church ; recognition and consecrating prayer by Rev. Mr. Perkins ; fellowship of the churches by Rev. Mr. Burnham ; concluding prayer by Rev. Mr. Sabin.

Dedication. The new meeting house recently erected by the North Winchendon Congregational Society, was solemnly dedicated to the worship of God, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, on Wednesday, Jan. 10. Introductory prayer and reading of the scriptures by Rev. Mr. Chipman of Athol ; sermon by Rev. Mr. Marvin of North Winchendon ; dedicatory prayer by Rev. Mr. Peckham of South Royalston.

Ordination. On the same day, Mr. Abijah P. Marvin was ordained Pastor of the North Winchendon Confrreorational Church and Society. The services were as follows : - introductory prayer and reading of the Scriptures by Rev. Mr. Rice of Winchendon ; sermon by Rev. E. R. Tyler, of New Haven, Conn. ; ordaining prayer by Rev. Mr. Jennison of Ashburnham ; charge to the pastor by Rev. Mr. Burnham of Rindge, N. H. ; right hand of fellowship by Rev. Mr. Sabin of Templeton ; address to the church and people by Rev. Mr. Chipman of Athol ;

The day was beautiful for a wintry day - the house crowded to overflowing, the services solemn and appropriatCi the music excellent, and the appearance of the audience furnished ample evidence that a good impression was produced. This new church, having but just been organized, with their new meeting house located in a flourishing village, and their young pastor in the freshness of ministerial life, commences its career by the brightest prospects of usefulness and success.

About A. D. 1752, as appears from tradition, a man by the name of Priest, was found frozen to death on or near the Prentiss Hill, in a snow storm. It was supposed that returning to his home, which was on land now known by the name of the Thomas Place, with a hand-sled laden with hay, he fell into the water and wet his clothes. He was buried south of the present burying ground.

1771, April. William Oaks, aged 17 years, and Robert Mofl'att, aged 16 years, were drowned in Miller's river, near where Mr. Phinehas Ball now lives. They went in a boat - the boat was upset. They managed to get to a large low stub. Mrs. Oaks, Robert's mother, saw them, but was unable to render them any assistance. No neighbors were near. Nothing could be done to rescue them from their perilous situation. They clung to the stub for a while ; but chilled and exhausted, they were obliged to relinquish their hold, and they sunk.

1778. A stranger, traveller, was choked to death by eating a piece of meat at Nichols' tavern, which stood where Capt. Oliver Adams now lives.

1786, May 10. Uriah Crooks was mortally wounded by the falling of a stub, at a chopping bee, on the east side of Dennison's pond. He survived but a few hours.

1800, Sept. 8. Stephen Bixby was killed with an axe, by Daniel Robbins, who was insane, in or near a log house on land lately owned by Capt. Joseph Robbins.

1809. Bartholomew Stearns jun. was found dead in the road, above and near the house of Capt. John Raymond. He had been reaping on the hill upon the farm, went to the well, drank water, and died on his return.

1816, Oct. 14. Thomas Wyman jun. was killed by being thrown from his horse, as was supposed, in the road souih of where Mr. Daniel Day now lives. Some supposed that his foot for a while hung in the stirrup, and that he was dragged by the horse.

The widow Elizabeth Baldwin, was found burnt to death on a sabbath day. The rest of the family were gone to meeting. Nearly all her flesh was consumed when they returned.

1825. Hervey Holden was drowned in New Boston pond. He was returning from meeting on a sabbath upon the ice, which broke. He fell in, and sunk.

John R. Golding, fell down dead in his house. An infant child of Lydia Golding died suddenly. Nov. 22. Isaac Grout jun. was found dead in Mr. Luke Rice's mowing land, the morning after he was missincr.

Oct. 17. Samuel Hartwell was found dead near a bridge in the southwest part of the town. He went out the evening before, which was very dark, and in returning home, as was supposed, he fell from the bridge.

1834, Feb. 25. A young man by the name of Adams, while working at the factory in the Spring Village, had his hand caught in a belt as it was running, which wounded him so as to cause his death,

July 13, Elizabeth Goodspeed was killed. As she, with others, was returning from meeting, they overtook a large loaded wagon, and in attempting to pass by, the wagon, in which they were, turned over toward the large wagon ; one hind wheel of which, came partly on her head and neck, and thus deprived her of life.

1836, Sept. 2. Joseph Adams was killed by a log, which he was drawing to a heap of wood, striking against a stump and flying round and hitting him on the head. He expired a few hours after receiving the blow.

1841, July 26. Mrs. Phinehas Parks was found dead on or near the stone. She had stepped out to get some fuel, was first discovered by a young man in the neighborhood.

April 2. A girl by the name of Taggart, aged IG yrs. from Sharon N. H. had been working at the cotton factory in Spring Village, was missing and lost in November previous, and was found dead, having been frozen, at a little distance from the road which leads from the Village to N. H.

Index Of Names

As the table of contents indicates the principal subjects, the index relates to the iiauies of persons, and to tlie pages where they are first mentioned in this work.