HISTORY OF LANCASTER, COOS COUNTY, NEW HAMPSHIRE ---------------------------------- Information located at http://www.nh.searchroots.com On a web site about GENEALOGY AND HISTORY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE and its counties TRANSCRIBED BY JANICE BROWN Please see the web site for my email contact. ---------------------------------- The original source of this information is in the public domain, however use of this text file, other than for personal use, is restricted without written permission from the transcriber (who has edited, compiled and added new copyrighted text to same). ****DO NOT LINK DIRECTLY TO THIS TEXT FILE, INSTEAD LINK TO THE FOLLOWING URL***: http://www.nh.searchroots.com/coos.html#Lancaster ======================================================== History of Coös County, New Hampshire, by Georgia Drew Merrill; Syracuse N.Y.: W.A. Fergusson & Co., 1888, 1888, 1018 pgs. page 263 ORIGIN OF LANCASTER--On July 6, 1763, Governor Benning Wentworth signed the document providing for the initial settlement, naming it in this document, LANCASTER. The names of the Grantees were--David Page, David Page, Jun'r, Abraham Byam, Ruben Stone, John Grout, John Grout, Jun'r, Jonathan Grout, Solomon Willson, Joseph Stowell, Joseph Page, William Page, Nath'l Page, John Warden, Silas Bennit, Thomas Shattock, Ephraim Shattock, Silas Shattock, Benj'a Mann, Daniel Miles, Thomas Rogers, John Duncan, Nath'l Smith, Charles How, Israel Hale, Israel Hale, Jun'r, Daniel Hale, William Dagget, Isaac Ball, Solomon Fay, Jotham Death, John Sanders, Elisha Crosby, Luke Lincoln, David Lawson, Silas Rice, Thomas Carter, Ephraim Sterns, James Read, Timothy Whitney, Thomas Rice, Daniel Searles, Isaac Wood, Nath'l Richardson, Ebenezer Blunt, John Harriman, Ephraim Noyce, Benj'n Sawyer, John Sawyer, John Wait, Samuel Marble, John Marble, Jonathan Houghton, John Rogers, Abner Holden, Stanton Prentice, Benj'n Willson, Stephen Emes, John Phelps, William Read, Benj'n Baxter, Matthew Thornton, Esq'r, And'w Wiggin, Esq'r., Meschech Weare, Esq'r, Maj'r John Tolford, Hon'l Jos'h Newmarsh, Esq'r, Nath'l Barrel, Esq'r, Dan'l Warner, Esq'r, James Nevins, Esq'r, Rev'd Mr. Joshua Wingate Weeks, and Benj'n Stevens. Geography-- In 1821 Adino N. Brackett gives this description of Lancaster: "On the northeast of Lancaster lie Northumberland and Kilkeeny; on the south Jefferson and Whitefield, and on the south- west Dalton; the northwest line is nine miles in length, the south ten, and the southwest about two and a half miles. Lancaster is situated on the southeastern bank of the Connecticut river, which forms and washes its northwestern boundary, a distance of more than ten miles. In this whole distance there is not a single rapid. The water is deep, and below the mouth of Israel's river, which falls into the Connecticut very near the center of the town, its general width is twenty-two rods. The meadows lie along the margin of the river to near three-fourths of a mile in depth, almost the whole distance above mentioned. To these succeed a order of pine or spruce land for another half mile, which is generally level, and productive when cleared and properly cultivated. The next region was covered with a thick growth of sugar-maple, beech, bassword, ash, and other decidious forest trees. In many places, however, the spruce and fir abound, more particularly in the lowlands, with here and there a cedar swamp. One mile from the Court House there is a bridge over the Connecticut river, and about the same distance another over Israel's river. The first leads into Guildhall, Vt. The other connects the eastern and western divisions of the town together. From the southerly end of the bridge last mentioned, the road to Portland and Dartmouth strikes off in a southeastern direction. The distance to the place first mentioned is a hundred and ten miles. To Portsmouth is about one hundred and thirty miles. The trade of the town is carried on principally with Portland." PONDS There are several ponds. Martin Pond, in the southern par, area nearly 150 acres, was named for a hunter who frequented this locality. This communicates with Little Pond, area forty acres. Baker Pond, one mile north of the village, is a pleasant sheet of water. Lancaster village is located on Israel's river and about one mile from the Connecticut. The fine country which surrounds it, the excellent roads, and pleasant drives, together with the magnificent mountain scenery on every side, render it attractive as a summer resort. From the cupola of the Lancaster House a very extended view of river, county, and mountain scenery can be obtained. The streets are wide and beautifully shaded, while the business blocks and private residences betoken the care, neatness and taste of the citizens. The river, in its passage through the village, is spanned by two substantial bridges, and furnishes fine water power. The village is the center of a rich agricultural section, and does a large mercantile business. CHANGE OF BOUNDARIES On exploring the bounds of Lancaster, David Page, Esq., found that it covered but a small portion of the coveted Coos meadows, and the improvements already made were really in Stonington. The nine miles extent of meadow land, the good sites of Israel's river for future mills, so superior to those of John's river, were also in that territory of Stonington, the proprietors of which had nothing to develop these sources of wealth during the existence of the terms of their grant, which expired in 1766. Then was done a bold thing. Under the influence of some powerful mind, and it would seem necessary to go no farther than to Mr. Page to find this, the proprietors conceived the idea of "sliding" Lancaster sufficiently far up the river to include all the desired territory. The initial steps were taken in 1766, but as the records were burned, we can only give record evidence from March 10, 1767. At that date it was voted that "Mr. Page recieve one dollar on each right for altering the town" and that he "run the line around the town." At the same meeting money was raised to "build a grist-mill and saw-mill on Israel's river." The line around their occupancy was duly made, meadow and house lots duly laid out, and some labor performed on roads. The lines of the grant as it should be were defined: and, in 1769 Lieut. John Talford was procured to "survey" the town. Going up the Connecticut about seven miles from the true northwest corner, he established an arbitrary corner by an ash tree on the bank of the Connecticut: from this he surveyed the town by courses and distances as described in the charter. If the original grant had been adhered to, three-fourths of Lancaster would be composed of land now in Dalton and Whitefield. This summary proceeding disarranged all the river grants above Lancaster, and after much agitation it was submitted to the arbitration of Gov. Wentworth. It was finally settled by Northumberland holding the ground she occupied, while Woodbury, Cockburn, Coleburn, and Stewartstown were to move further up the river, and each receive as a bonus a large additional tract on its eastern side. Not all of the proprietors of Stonington were satisfied with this, for they were not all included in the charter of Northumberland, and some of them made surveys and did other acts indicating an interference with Lancaster. The first record evidence of this is in the records of 1773. On August 26th of that year, at a meeting of the proprietors, a vote was passed to locate Hon. Charles Ward Apthorp's ten rights, giving him two miles on the river below Edward Bucknam's lot, and back far enough to include ten full rights, and also the meadow land commonly called the Cat Bow tract of 360 acres. But the vote contains this provision, "the grant hereby made to him shall not operate to the disadvantage of the rest of the proprietors by the intervention of any foreign claim under color of a mistake in the boundaries of the township." At the same meeting the following vote was passed:--"That it appears to this proprietary as a matter of some uncertainty whether doubts may not arise with respect to the northerly extent of the boundaries of this township which upon a construction set up by sundry persons will deprive the whole of the settlers (one only excepted) of their land, possessions and improvements and reduce the township to a very inconsiderable compass, and the proprietors laboring under great uneasiness from the apprehension of, or expecting a calamity, do therefore request that Ammi R. Cutter, Esq. and Mr. Jacob Treadwell will be pleased to lay before his Excellency the Governor, such representation upon the subject as may to them appear most proper to induce his Excellency to grant to the proprietors and explanatory charter ascertianing the limits of the said township as the same was actually surveyed by Joshua Talford and is now alloted to the proprietors and possessed and enjoyed by the inhabitants." The war of the Revolution soon followed, and no mention of the change of lines is made in the record until April 20, 1790, when it was voted "that Col. Jonas Wilder, Lieut. Emmons Stockwell, and Edwards Bucknam be a committee to act in behalf of the proprietary, and petition the General Court of the State of New Hampshire respecting the charter of said Lancaster, that a new one be obtained to the same grantees, and to cover all the lands up to and join Northumberland, agreeably to the plan and survey of said town." In 1790 and 1791 similar votes were passed. In 1796 the proprietors concluded long enough possession had been had to entitle them to the land and chose Richard C. Everett, Esq. agent to act in behalf of the Proprietors of Lancaster to defend any lawsuit or suits, or to commence any action or actions against any encroachments that are or may be upon said Township of Lancaster, etc. etc. FIRST SETTLEMENTS--1763--Those survivors of that historic band known as "Rogers Rangers" who passed down the valley of the Upper Connecticut, made known the beauty, extent and fertility of this section to appreciative ears. Among others who listened to their stories, especially to those of the youthful, enthusiastic, and daring Emmons Stockwell, was David Page, Esq. of Petersham, Mass., one of the grantees of Haverhill, who felt sorely aggrieved by the division of rights in that grant. A bold, resolute man, he determined to wrest from the upper wilderness something to compen- sate him for his fancied losses in Haverhill. He, with others, secured grants for territory on the opposite sides of the C Connecticut which took the names of the towns where most of them lived in Massachusetts. Thus it came that Lancaster and Lunenburg became names of towns on the Upper Connecticut. The same year that Lancaster was granted (1763), David Page determined that he would have the first choice in the lands; and sent his son David and Emmons Stockwell, to make a selection and improvements to hold their choice. They began clearing, hunted, fished, and trapped during the winter. They located their camp on the meadow back of the Holton house, on low ground, however, and the rising Connecticut drove them out of it in the chilling month of march. It is probable that they returned to the lower settlements in time to act as guides and assistants to the company of permanent settlers who were then ready to start for the new land of paradise. During 1764, David Page, with his family, Edwards Bucknam, and other young men from Lancaster, Lunenburg and Petersham, Mass., became settlers. The first permanent settlement was made April 19, 1764, on what is known as the "Stockwell place." The colonists set at work with a will, erecting cabins, clearing land, and planting corn on the land cleared the year before. Their conbined efforts enabled them to plant about twelve acres, which in the rich, fresh soil grew rapidly. "By August 26," says Stockwell, "this was twelve feet high, in full milk, with ears as high as my shoulders." During that night it was frozen completely through and spoiled. There was a hard blow, but the frost extended to Massachusetts, and they were no worse off here than there. The settlers had brought with them twenty head of cattle, and, during the summer, added twenty more; all were wintered nicely. At this period there was no settlement between Haverhill and Lancaster, and but very few north of Charlestown. There being no roads, the settlers suffered inconveivable hardships in transporting their necessaries, few as they were, being obliged to navigate their log canoes up and down the "Fifteen-mile falls," now known to be twenty fmiles in length, with a descent of more than three hundred feet; and in winter to pass the same dangerous rapids in sleighs and with ox teams, frequently falling through the ice, and sometimes never rising above it. High water to descend, and low water to ascend, were thought the most favorable times, the canoes being drawn up by ropes, but when descending, one man stood in the bow with a pole to guard from rock to rock, while another sat in the stern to steer with his paddle. In this manner the wife of David Page, when corpulent and inform, was carried in safety to her friends below." So much has been written about David Page, Sr., never being a resident of Upper Coos, but it seems quite essential to say that we have his own testimony to the fact that he did reside here some years, and probably many. See his petition for more land later in this chapter. Tradition says that he built the first framed house in the county. The first white woman to settle here was Ruth, daughter of David Page. She came in August 1764 to perform the indispensible house-keeping for the pioneers. In 1765 she became the wife of Emmons Stockwell. They had fifteen children: David, the oldest, was the first son of Lancaster. The married life of Mr. and Mrs. Stockwell continued fifty-five years. Mrs. Stockwell had nearly two hundred descendants living at the time of her death, which occurred March 21, 1828, in the eighty-second year of her age, and for forty years previous she had been a member of the "First church" in Lancaster. In 1775 there were eight families in town, embracing about sixty-one person. Dennis Stanley was here prior to 1776. For the first twenty years the people lived without mills, and their nearest neighbors were fifty miles distant. All their supplies not produced from their lands, or forest or stream, came through the White Mountain Notch, or up the Connecticut river. The first lime used by Lieut. Stanley to tan moose skins, was brought from Portsmouth in leather bags, on a horse's back. A scanty supply of flour was obtained from Haverhill. It does not appear that they ever suffered for lack of food, except one season, when the frost killed the corn. The samp mortar was an "institution" in all the old families. This was an immense hardwood log, about three feet in length, hollowed out at the end like an ordinary mortar, with a stone pestle hung upon a spring pole in the corner of the kitchen; in this mortar the corn was put in small quantities, and crushed with this pestle until it was as fine as hominy, and was superior to it. The hull could be taken off by putting it in water. Samp was a standard article of food long after mills were established, and the mortain maintained its place in many families. The Connecticut river supplied fish of the choicest kind, and the family who did not "put down" a supply of salmon was looked upon as improvident. Even at this early period, "cars" were used for the transportation of baggage; not contructed, however, precisely like these on our railroads, as they were made of two poles, one end of each resting on the ground, the other passing through the stirrups of a saddle, with two traverse sticks behind the horse, on which rested the load, and to one of which the whiffletree was attached. FIRST MILLS-- The very first mill was operated by horse-power, but it did little better service than the large mortar and pestle attached to a pole. David Page built a small water-mill on Indian brook, northeast of the burying-ground about 1770. This and its successor was burned. About 1781 Major Wilder built a grist mill at the foot of the "sand-hill." Between 1793 and 1800, R.C. Everett put up a large mill, one hundred feet long and three stories in height, in which was a grist-mill, a carding-machine, and two saws. This was burned about 1800, with much grain. In the same year (1800) Emmons Stockwell and Titus O. Brown erected mills. In 1810 an improved mill was built where the present one stands, and, in 1817, one occupied the "Wesson" privilge. During the Revolution the little settlements on the Connecticut were much retarded. The fear of the Indians, who captured Newcomb Blodgett, and others, inhabitants of Coos, led to the idea of abandonment of the county. Emmons Stockwell was made of no such material, however. He told those that spoke of leaving "to go, if they wanted to, but that he would stay." He did stay, and sometimes alone, and sometimes with the company of several families, he kept the settlement alive until the war was over. Even after the war Lancaster settled slowly. The proprietors did not willingly part with the lands, some would not sell, and the town grew slowly. The destruction of the town records of the earlist days makes it impossible to give the exact time of the arrival of the early settlers. In 1778 Major Jonas Wilder came, and was chosen to office in March, 1779. He was followed by many of his relatives and friends, who came with all the enthusiasm of men who expected to make their fortunes in a very short time. The contrast between the sterile soil of central Massachusetts and the Connecticut meadows was so great that it seemed to them that they had only to come here to be rich. It was understood that the meadows were so fertile that manure would never be wanted to secure the finest of crops, and so impressed were they with this idea, that the droppings of the cattle were carted from the Wilder premises, and dumped into a gully near Indian brook, and in some instances barns were moved to get them out of the way of the manure heaps. This paradies included also Lunenburg and Guildhall. VILLAGE PLOT-- In settling a new country one of the first things done is to lay out a village plot. The proprietors, knowing from its location and advantages that Lancaster must become an important business center, laid out two streets (one south from Israel's river, the other easterly to the river) and sixty building lots, deeded the "meeting-house-common" to the town, deeded Israel's river with a strip of land on each side from the island below the bridge to the great bow above the papermill, to the town for school purposes, and offered fifty acres of land to the one who brought the first set of blacksmith's tools to the town, and established a shop. Few buildings were erected, however, where the proprietors expected. EARLY PRICES--The stock of the first merchants was "W.I. Run," "N.E. Rum," tobacco, chintz (calico), salt, tea, axes, hoes, nails, glass, etc. Little money was here, and barter was the rule. Home-made tow-and-linen cloth brought from two to three shillings a yard, cotton-and-linen cloth three to four shillings, chintz for wedding dresses, one dollar a yard, and, as women's wages were from two to three shillings a week, it would take "my lady" four or five months steady labor to earn her bridal dress. Men's wages for the "season" (six months in summer) was about $8 a month in stock or produce... [more information in original source not included here]. ALARMS DURING THE WAR [REVOLUTION] -- June 22, 1786, Jonas Wilder and Emmons Stockwell as selectmen give this "account of the alarms in the Upper Coos during the late war. In July 1776, 1 alarm; Sept. 1777, 1 alarm; 1778, do; in July 1779, 1 alarm. Indians took prisoners at Stratford; In June 1780, I alarm; August 1780, do; Oct. 1780, 1 do; Thos. Worcester taken; in July 1781, 1 alarm; some wounded men came in said Pritchett was near; Sept, 1781, 1 alarm. Pritchett went to Wipples in May 1782, 1 alarm; Abel Learned taken, June, do. 1 alarm; in Oct. 1 alarm, Nix taken." This was endorsed. "Account on the number of days spent in scouting, guilding and forting, by the men inhabitants of Lancaster, in time of the above alarms, and other times during the late war: being 447 days, Jonathan Willard, 10 days. Total, 467 days." "Moses Page, David Page, and Emmons Stockwell were in company in constructing the mill-dam in February 1785." -- Bucknam Papers. In 1786 the tide of emigration set strongly this way. Col. Stephen Willson had a clearing and log hut on the interval near the present village. Capt. John Weeks came from Greenland, and following in his steps, the same year, and later, came Joseph Brackett, Coffin, and William Moore, Phineas Hodgdon, Walter and Samuel Philbrook, and other. Central Massachusetts sent a respectable number at about the same time, or a few years later, including Titus O. Brown, Jonas Baker, Jonathan Cram, Humphrey Cram, Joseph Wilder, Elisha Wilder, Joseph Willard, Benjamin Boardman, and others. In 1790 the town had 161 population.... An extract from a letter of Capt. John Weeks to his wife, written at Lancaster, July 15, 1787, will throw a little light on the mode of life of that primitive period. "We shall move into our log house this week. It will be a very comfortable one. The logs, all peeled, are smooth and clean. The house is eighteen feet wide, and twenty feet long. We shall have one comfortable room, and two bed-rooms. Our family now consists, besides mywelf, of one hired man, one girl (Patty), one boy (John), one cow, one heifer, one sheep, one hog, one pig, one dog, one cat, one hen, and one chicken; we have also a pair of geese at Coll Buckmans, which we shall take home in the fall. You would be pleased to see our little family, and Patty's management of it." Adjoining Deacon Brackett's farm on the east, was the farm of Briant Stephenson. He was a good man, a worthy citizen, and one of the first clerks in school district number two, which was formed in 1791. He was also town clerk. About 1790, Phineas Hodgdon (a soldier under General Gates in the Revolution) a young man of military bearing, became a settlers; John McIntire came later, with a yoke of steers, a pair of "Blocksheels," a chain, axe, and a bushel of salt. He was uneducated, but possessed strong common sense, took up one lot of land, which by his industry he brought into a fine state of cultivation, and accumulated a large property. Edward Spaulding (whose mother brought him, a child, to Northumberland in 1767) on arriving at maturity, bought a lot of land on the northern slope of Mt. Pleasant, which he cleared and occupied during a long life. He was a man of magnificent proportions. He was a great hunter and fisher; honest kind and hospitable. He died in 1845. Coffin Moore, son of Dr. Coffin Moore, of Portsmouth, married Mary Bucknam, and resided in Dalton and Lancaster. Among his children were Dr. Edward B. Moore, an eminent physician of Boston, and Joseph B. Moore, of Lancaster. Capt. William Moore settled on a farm near Martin Meadow pond. He married a daughter of John McIntire, held various town offices, and was very popular. Asahel Allen lived on the southern slope of Martin Meadow hills. Amos LeGrio, son of Dr. Samuel LeGro, was a useful and upright citizen. Joseph Howe and Daniel Stebbins lived near neighbors on the hill road. Both were trustworthy men and excellent citizens. RESIDENTS-POLLS, AND STOCK 1793-- The first inventory of Lancaster other than of real estate, appears on record as taken in April 1793. Col. Edwards Bucknam has one poll, two oxen, five cows, two horses, four young cattle; Lt. Joseph Brackett, two polls, two oxen, two cows, one horse, six young cattle; Jonas Baker, one poll, two oxen, two cows, one yearling; James McHard, no poll nor personal property; Phinehas Bruce, one poll, one cow; William Bruce, one poll; Titus O. Brown, one poll; Lt. Jona. Cram, two polls, two oxen, two cows, two horses, six young cattle; Thaddeus Carby, one poll; Abijah Darby, one poll, one cow; Isaac Darby, one poll, one cow; Fortunatus Eager, one poll; Robert Gotham, one poll, one ox, two three-year-olds; Benjamin Green, nothing; Daniel How, one poll, two oxen, one cow, one two-year-old; Phinehas Hodsden, one poll, one cow, two young cattle; Jonathan Hartwell, one poll, one cow; Oliver Hutchings, one poll; William Johnson, no poll nor person property; Nathan Lovewell, one poll, one two-year-old... the list goes on.. only the names included in this list are now shown in this document: William Moore, John McIntire, Benjamin Orr, Capt. David Page, Moses Page, Walter Philbrook, Joel Page, Lt. John Rosbrook, Charles Rosbrook, Jona. Rosbrook, Ezra Reeves, Lt. Emmons Stockwell, Lt. Dennis Stickney, Benjamin Twombly, Col. Jonas Wilder, Jonas Wilder Jr., Joseph Wilder, Elisha Wilder, Manasseh Wilder, Capt. John Weeks, Lt. Jere. Willcox, Smith Williams, Ashbell Webb, Sylvanus Chessman, Joseph Chandler. By this time, the intervals or meadow lots, on the Connecticut, had been mostly occupied, and farms on the hills were beginning to be developed. Although harder to cultivate, they produced well. In 1773 the township, through a petition of David Page, is granted 1,000 acres additional. On December 14, 1775 David Page is a selectman of the town of Lancaster. On December 2, 1783 Edwards Bucknam and Emmons Stockwell are town selectmen. On September 4, 1787, Jonas Wilder, Edwards Bucknam and Emmons Stockwell are the town committee. On November 12, 1792 a petition is sent to the legislature requesting permission for a special local tax, and this document was signed by: Fortunatus Eager, John Rosbrook, Jr., Charles Rosbrook, Jonas Wilder, William Bruce, Jonathan Cram, Titus O. Brown, John Holmes, Elisha Wilder, Phineas Bruce, John Rosbrook, Emmons Stockwell, Joseph Wilder, Asahel Bigelow, Nathan Lovewell, Benjamin Orr, David Stockwell, Moses Page, Dennis Stanley, William Moore, David Page, Abijah Darby, Joseph Brackett, Walter Philbrook, Jonas Barker, Edward Spaulding, William Johnson, and Coffin Moore. The number of taxpayers in 1795 was fifty-nine. The six who paid the largest tax were Jonas Wilder, Dennis Stanley, Emmons Stockwell, Titus O. Brown, David Page, Edwards Bucknam. In 1799 there were ninety-one voters, and in 1800 a population of 440. In 1804 there were only seven dwelling houses in the village, north of the burying-ground. They were occupied by Artemas Wilder, Stephen Willson, Samuel Hunnux, William Lovejoy, A. Cram, J. Cram and Mr. Faulkner. Between the burying-ground and the river were the dwelling houses of R.C. Everett, and by the river, those of a man called "Governor" Bruce, famous for his facetious rhymes and speeches at raisings, and that of the sturdy David Greenleaf. On the south side of the river there were six dwelling houses. Titus O. Brown's, in one end of which he kept a small store; Sylvanus Chessman's house, then just built for a tavern; Edmund Chamberlains, Dr. Chapman's, Chessman's old house under the meeting-house hill, and the house of Mr. Hinman, the clothier. There was a mill on one side of Israel's river, and a clothing-mill on the other. These, with the meeting-house, Boardman's store and potash, the school-house, and the Carlisle store at the upper end of the street, comprised the village of 1804. THE LANCASTER BRIDGE COMPANY--A charter was created and dated June 21, 1804 comprised of Richard C. Everett, Levi Willard, Titus O Brown, Jonathan Cram, Stephen Willson, Jonas Barker, Arteums Wilder (and others invited to join them) to erect and maintain a bridge over the Connecticut River at a place called Waits Bow in Lancaster. The first bridge was built in 1805, and the second in 1825. [The original source includes a lengthy extract from Joseph Brackett's diary that is not included here]. General Moses Hazen was one of the most prominent early non-resident proprietors of land in Lancaster. He was a retired colonel of the British army, living on half pay at the commencement of the Revolution. He espoused the cause of the colonists, raised a regiment for service in the American army, and was to receive for a salary the same amount which he was entitled to draw from the British service. He had previously married a wealthy French lady, whose beautiful home at St. John was burned by the British during the Revolution and her estate and other valuable property confiscated. Gen. Hazen served with distinction during the war, but, by the depreciation of the Continental currency, and his failure to get just claims allowed by the War Department, he was a great financial loser by his espousal of the Colonial cause. His name is prominent in many affairs and early settlements in Vermont and on Lake Champlain in New York. He was stricken by palsy and for seventeen years before his death lay perfectly helpless; and under the old law of imprisonment for debt, he passed some of his time in close prison. A few years before his death, which occured in 1803, he was pronounced a lunatic by the chancellor of the state of New York, where he had resided after the Revolution, and Major Moses White, his nephew, and aid-de-camp in the army, appointed his keeper. He had been much interested in improving and settling new sections, and Major White found his business affairs extensive, "scattered from Virginia to Maine, and from Canada to the Atlantic, and from his financial condition, much embarrassed." General Hazen purchased of Charles W. Apthorp, October 5, 1783, among other lands twenty-four rights of land in Lancaster NH, including the "Cat Bow." The price to be paid was $115 per right.... but his finances became reduced, his lands were sold for taxes, his tenants were ejected and all became confusion and litigation. SOUTH LANCASTER--Among the early settlers in this part of Lancaster were Nathaniel White, his son Samuel White, David White, John Picket, William C. Ford, Daniel Howe, Israel Hale, Timothy Whitney, and Isaac Wood. Moses Blake contracted to build a house for Gen. Moses Hazen, in 1785, on the "Cat Bow" tract, and cleared land there. Ephraim Griggs did work in the same year for Gen. Hazen amounting to $100. Asa Bucknam and Joseph L'Esperance chopped more than eight acres on the "Cat Bow." A Mr. Hartwell was a tennat here in 1784. About the same time George Wheeler, Walter Bloss, and John Hopkinson cleared thirteen acres on the same tract. P. Griggs became a tenant of Hazen in 1786. Rev. John Wilber, of Attleboroug, Mass., brother-in-law of R.C. Everett purchased lands here in 1808, but never became a resident. 1810--The growth of the town was slow but solid, roads began to be laid out. Gaps were made in the pine groves, and in the hard wood timber of the highlands, and steady improvements were made, year by year until in 1810 the population was 717. The town had been selected as the shire town of the county, had a court-house and jail, the academy had been incorporated, school-houses erected in two school districts, and Willson's tavern dispensed much "flip" and entertained hospitably man and beast. The village had six houses at the upper end, besides those mentioned, and there were occupied by Samuel Hunnux, William Lovejoy, Artemas Cram, Benjamin Boardman, and a Faulkner. At the south of that of "Governor" Bruce, a soul of merriment at all social and public occasions, and that of old Miller Greenleaf, so sturdy and well known. On one side of the river was a fulling-mill, then much patronized, and on the other a pretnetious grist-mill which did good work. Titus O. Brown had a small store, the new Chesman tavern was well patronized, and three or four private residences, Dr. Chapman's and the old Chesman house included, comprised the village of that day. 1820--During the decade from 1810 to 1820 the population shrunk to 644. The high political excitement attending the embargo, non-intercouse, and war questions; the proximity to the frontier during the war; Capt. John W. Weeks, taking an immense number of his young friends, vigorous and energetic men with him, organized a company which did faithful service through the War of 1812, and was especially complimented for gallant demeanor at the battle of Chippewa,** together with the epidemic which raged so fatally in 1813, carrying off many prominent citizens, with the extremely low price of produce and the general stagnation of business, prevented anything like progress. In conjunction with these were the cold seasons of 1816 and 1817, when probably there was more suffering than at any other period of the occupancy of the town. From some or all of these causes, many became discouraged and sought an easier place to live. But by 1820 another fulling-mill had been put up, and another grist-mill helped to grind the rye, corn and wheat of the people. There were now four stores, two taverns, three doctors, eight school districts, and four school-houses, three lawyers and five justices of the peace. **ROSTER OF CAPT. WEEK'S COMPANY--John W. Weeks, Captain; Richard Bean, 1st. Lieut.; James Green, 2d Lieut.; F.A. Sawyer, Ensign; Benjamin Stevenson, William Smith, Daniel Bailey, Amaziah Knights, Elisha B. Green, Sergeants William W. Bailey, Peter Gambsly, Obed S. Hatch, Josiah Reed, Benjamin Wilson, Robert Hoskins, Corporals; Alva Smith, Orrin R. Dexter, Silas Whitney, Solomon B. Clark, Musicians. The privates were: Henry Alden, Samuel Abbott, Thomas Alverson, Daniel Bennett, Zerah Bennett, John Brown, Chester Bennett, Hazen Burbank, Daniel Burbank, Stephen Bullard, Benjamin T. Baker, Ebenezer Ball, Thomas Brigham, Gad Beacher, John Burns, John Burgin 2d, John Bickford, Nathaniel Bennett, John Brainard, Zebulon Carter, Stephen Chase, Levi H. Christian, Seth Clark, Winthrop Collins, John Collins, Guy Clark, Jere Clough, Charles Collins, Moses Cooper, Sylvanus Currier, Otis Chaffee, Samuel Abraige, Benjamin Cross, Phineas Davenport, Eliphet Day, John Dodge, Moses David, Eli Davenport, Liumer Dodge, John English, James French, Luther Fuller, Jer'h Fuller, Joel Farnham, John French, Timothy Fuller, Lemuel Fuller, Abner Gay, Wells Goodwin, Samuel Gotham, Robert Gotham, Samuel Henry, John Holmes, Neh. Holmes, Willard Huntoon, Alpheus Hutchins, John Henderson, James Harvey, Sheldon Holbrook, Henry Hall, John Hicks, John M. Holmes, Daniel Holmes, Greenleaf Huntoon, George Huntoon, Warren Cassin, Joshua Knapp, Peter Labare, Joseph Labare, Samuel Linsey, George W. Lucas, Jacob McIntire, James Mellen, Harry Moore, Shephard Morse, Ebenezer Mudge, Jacob B. Moore, John W. Moore, William Merriam, Nathaniel Moore, James Nesbit, Stephen Orr, Daniel Perkins, James Perkins, Theodore Phillips, Benoni Potter, Orange Pixley, Caleb Prouty, Daniel Pickham, Albert Rathbone, Anthony C. Readfield, Abram Rogers, Martin Ray, George Shirland, Edmund Sanborn, John Sanford, John Shirley, Job Smith, Luther Southworth, Elihu Spencer, Jacob Sperry, James B. Stanley, Joshua Stephens, Abram Sanborn, Reuben Stevens, David Stodard, John C. Swain, Joshua Stephens, Abram Sanborn, Reuben Stevens, David Stoddard, John C. Swain, Israel Sanderson, Daniel Stratton, Jacob Trussell, Daniel Utley, Samuel Vanschork, Jere Wheeler, Barney B. Whipple, James Whitney, Jeremiah White, Jotham Wilkins, John Wilkinson, Absalon Wilson, John Wilson, James Witherell, John R. Wyatt, John M. Williams, John Weed, Allen White, Andrew Woods, Thomas Whiton, George Warren, Simson Warren, Josiah Washburn, Robert H. Robertson, Alexander Jones, Peter Hamilton, Jedediah Robinson, Samuel Wright, Samuel Stackpole. FIRST SABBATH SCHOOL - the first effort for Sabbath instruction was made in 1816 or 1817 by Mrs. William Farrar who organized a school at her house and invited the young people of the south aprt of Guildhall to join those of Lancaster. 1830--From 1820 to 1830 the town grew in population, wealth and development. The Agricultural Society, organized in 1821, had aided in stimulating the farmers to an improved condition of agriculture, and did good work in the four years of its existence. Manufactures increased considerable. Col. Cross was doing a fine business in his hat shop. Business interests were keeping the machinery of the saw, grist and fulling mills running to their fullest capacity. Lancaster was now the most important town in Northern New Hampshire, with a population nearly doubled in ten years, and now 1,187. The cleared area was extended, and the rough farms were freed from stumps. East Lancaster had been sought out for farms, and many a fine one developed. Richard Eastman was country treasurer in 1828; A.N. Brackett, representative;John W. Weeks, member of Congress; and other citizens held prominent and responsible positions...New merchants had been attraced hither by the superior business opportunities.. Royal Joslin returned here from Bath. Jared W. Williams had come from the "Nutmeg" state and cast his lot with the people. All were busy and prosperous.... FREIGHT--"Goods from Boston were shipped to Portland by sailing vessels and brought from there to Lancaster on wagons (in the summer) and by sleighs (in the winter). The mail came twice a week from Boston, was three days on the way, arriving on Wednesdays and Sundays; was carried to Colebrook once a week in a one-horse wagon. A weekly mail was carried on horseback to Bethel for Portland. VEHICLES--Most of the team work was done by oxen in the summer, and there was not a good team wagon in the town. One chaise (Person Willard's presumably) was owned in the place, with a few one-horse wagons; steel springs and 'thorough braces" were unknown. The annual musters of the 24th Regiment were held alternately at Lancaster and Colebrook; later the towns north of Northumberland formed the 42d. There were religious services in the "Meeting House" on the hill, and the Methodists held meetings in the Court House. 1840--During the decade ending with 1840, a steady increase of prosperity, wealth, and improvement was also shown. Lancaster began to have its solid men of wealth and finance. The business men were shrewd, careful and conservative, and suffered little from the great panic of 1837, which so paralyzed the business centers of the country, and a good bank, chartered in 1833, with Col. John H. White as president, and Royal Joyslin, cashier, had been established. The first newspaper published in Coos county, "The White Mountain Aegis" began its brief existence in 1838. By the great advance in staging, Boston can be reached from Lancaster in forty-eight hours time. According to A.N. Brackett's Diary, on July 16, 1831 "a hail storm of unprecedented violence passed over Lancaster and Guildhall... The hail continued to descend from twenty to thirty minutes. The largest hail stones examined were over two inches in their greatest diamter. They were not perfectly globular but shaped like a turnip, with fluted edges. Many of the stones would each weigh an ounce. It fell in such quantities as to cover the ground more than an inch deep, like a fall of snow, and where it rolled down hills, or off from houses, it lay more than a foot deep, and some remained unmelted thirty-six hours after the storm. In its effects it was most destructive. Fields of grain, corn, potatoes, and even grass were laid level with the earth; trees were stripped of their foliage, and wherever the wind was violent, windows were dashed to atoms. Even shingles on buildings were split to pieces. Birds were killed. Fortunately the wind was slight during most of the storm, which was limited in extent. Some of the most flourishing farms in the lower part of Lancaster and Guildhall were stripped of their entire crop. "Grass and grain are literally driven into the ground, so that they can, in no event, be of value the present year." In 1839: Lancaster had five stores, seven lawyers, four physicians, one bank, one fire insurance company, a flour-mill, four saw mills, three clapboard and shingle machines, one extensive clothiers mill, a tannery, machinery for carriage making, blacksmithing work, coopering. The religious establishments were a Congregational Church, Methodist Episcopal society, three meeting-houses, many Baptists, Unitarians, Freewill Baptists, some Quakers, Christians, Restorationists, and no Mormons. There was also a printing press in town from which issues the "Coos County Democrat." [The section of the original document on the years 1850-1870, the location of village streets, and other info are mostly not included here] 1850-population 1,559. 1860-population, 2,020 1870-population 2,248 1880-population-2723 ---------------------------- (Town officers extracted from the town records shown in the original source) In 1776 Joseph Whipple was chosen to represent the towns of Lancaster, Northumberland, Dartmouth (now Jefferson), Apthorp (merged in other towns) and Stratford... He was also elected in 1778 and 1779. 1779, March 9, Major Jonas Wilder, Edwards Bucknam, Lieut. David Page, Lieut. Emmons Stockwell, Mr. Moses Page and Mrs.Dennis Stnaley were chosen a committee to pitch a burring (burying) field in some convenient place in said town as soon as possible. 1783, March 11. Voted that the Pound shall be built for the present on the road between Major Wilder's and the bridge-place or fordway over Israel's River to Dartmouth, and Major Wilder chosen Poundkeeper. In 1784, at the first election of the town, Meshech Weare had eight votes for President and Moses Dow eight votes for Senator. In 1785 it was voted that 20 bushels of wheat be assessed on the polls and estates...Capt. David Page was sealer of weights and measures. 1786, March 14 Major Jonas Wilder, Edwards Bucknam and Lieut. Emmons Stockwell selected as a committee to hire a minister. 1788, March 11 Col. Jonas Wilder, Edwards Bucknam and Dr. Francis Willson chosen a committee to hire a preacher. Capt. John Weeks chosen delegate from the Upper Coos to the state convention to ratify the Federal constitution. 1792, March 19. Capt. John Weeks elected representative for one year. 1792, Aug. 20. Lieut. Emmons Stockwell is permitted to retail spiritous liquors in this Town of Lancaster, and also to keep a public house of entertainment and to mix liquors of any kind under the rules and regulations of this State, one year from this date. 1794, August 7. The Town voted to concur with the Church in giving the Rev. Mr. Joseph Willard an invitation to settle with us in the Gospel Ministry, and choose a committee to provide for an Ecclesiatical Council. The Town meetings had been held at the houses of various individuals until November 7, 1793 when the meeting-house was used for this purpose--though unfinished. At this time action was taken to "raise Twenty Pounds in Labor, at Three shillings per day, for clearing the meeting house spot." In 1793, Fortunatus Eager, 1794, Edwards Bucknam and Jonas Wilder, 1795, Richard C. Everett and Stephen Willson, 1796, Richard C. Everett and Sylvanus Chesman, 1797, Stephen Willson, 1798, Artemus Wilder Jr. and John Tuscan were licensed to sell spiritous liquors and distilled spirits. 1811, August. Small pox prevailed. 1813, Fever Epidemic; between Feb. 11 and June 30, twenty-nine deaths occurred: Lieut. Dennis Stanley and Deacon Joseph Brackett among the number. Many deaths among the soldiers from this vicinity stationed on Lake Champlain. 1804. Thomas Carlisle & Co. were in trade here, and licensed to sell spiritous liquors by retail. 1806, Nov. 24. Thomas & J.M. Dennison licensed to sell spiritous liquors. 1809. Francis & John Willson had a store. 1815. James Dewey & Co were among the traders at this time. [the list continues regarding taverns and licenses, not included in this document] WAR OF THE REBELLION (CIVIL WAR) First Volunteers--Recruiting officer Henry O. Kent opened a recruiting office in Lancaster, for the enlistment of soldiers for the United States army, April 22, 1861. Twenty-two enlisted that day. They were H.R. Richardson, H.D.F. Young, F.M. Rhodes, T. Cassidy, J. Benway, O.R. Moulton, E.R. Jones, J.C. Jenness, C.W. Fletcher, J. Hagan, I M. Wallace, J. Beaton, C. Fuller, E. Butler, C.F. Marden, S.H. Clough, W.P. Horn, C.W. Balch, G. Burt, C. Buck. J.G. Sutton. The next day the work send on. Soon appear on the roll these additional names: G.W. Morgan, T. Maguire, R.O. Young, Fred A. Wentworth, Edgar Gaines, John Ferrin, George Garfield, William Morgan, William H.F. Staples, Simon Merrill, Cyrus W. Merrill, Hubbard Gaskill, George Chancy, George Robinson, John W. Morse, William L. Perry, Albert Heath, James E. Smith, Michael Smith, Bernard Johnson, Welcome A. Crafts, Thomas Kenney, Cummings M. Winchester, John Handerson, White Pilbro, John Woodward, William W. Walker, Cleaveland C. Beard, William K. Montgomery, Frederick T. Bennett, Joseph K. Hodge. Eighty volunteers left Lancaster for Portsmouth May 6, 1861, bearing the name of "Coos Volunteers." On examination by the surgeon at Portsmouth, several were discharged for disability. Co. F., 2nd Regt. N.H. Vols--this company was formed, taking the Coos recruits as a nucleus. Its organization was completed in the early part of June 1861. We give its first officers and the names of the men who enlisted in Coos: Captain, Thomas Snow; First Lieutenant, Joshua F. Littlefield; Second Lieutenant, H.D.F. Young; Sergeants, W.A. Crafts, F.M. Rhodes, Hugh R. Richardson, C.W. Fletcher, Louiville W. Brackett; Corporals, William O. Lyford, William H. Tucker, Oscar H. French, James S. Morrow, John Chandler, David Clark. R.O. Young, James H. Swaine; Privates, John Barney, Charles Buck, George Burt, Joseph Benway, Goerge H. Chancey, Samuel H. Clough, Edgar Gaines, John Henderson, Henry S. Hilliard, James Hagan, Bernard Johnson, Thomas Kenney, George W. Morgan, James Mayhew, Cyrus W. Merrill, Simon Merrill, Patrick McCaffery, George W. Robinson, William H.H. Staples, Thomas J. Severance, Clark Stevens, Levi Witham, Ira M. Wallace. FIRE ENGINE--June 18, 1864--The town votes $1,000 "to purchase a fire engine and other necessary apparatus to put the fire department upon an efficient footing;" and chose E.R. Kent, J.I. Williams and Ezra B. Bennett a committee to see to the expenditure. A CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION was held in Lancaster July 14, 1864 to commemorate the deeds of the early pioneers and the progress of the town. It was a lovely day and from two to three thousand persons participated. Among the prominent sons of Lancaster, residing elsewhere who were present were: E.D. Holton, of Milwaukee, Wis.; J.B. Brown of Portland, Me.; Nathaniel White, of Concord, and I.B. Gorham of St. Johnsbury, Vt. Addresses were made by the president, D.H. Mason, of Boston, and E.D. Holton. Henry O. Kent was marshal-in-chief; Harvey Adams, special marshal for Sabbath-schools. CENTENNIAL PARK: was named in town meeting November 4, 1869 and the selectmen authorized to purchase it from Samuel Twombly. FRESHETS--In 1869, October 3, the heaviest rain-fall for 20 years occurred in this region commencing at 6:00 pm and continuing uniterruptedly for forty hours. The loss was great in Lancaster, and estimated at $20,000; the most serious loss was that sustained by Col. Freeman. Israel's river rose rapidly; a temporary dam was constructed from Col. Freeman's mill to check it, but the dam gave way about 11 pm.m October 4, and a torrent rushed down Mill street and through Mechanic street, sweeping all before it; up Main street, tearing up Mill street and taking side-walks away. Soon after Freeman's mill fell, burying and spoiling the costly machinery. His loss was estimated at $10,000. There were many other buildings damaged and much property in lumber and machinery swept away, and crops on the low meadows were much injured. 1870, February 19--an unexpected and disastrous flood on Israel's river occured, doing great damage to property and periling many lives, although none were lost. Main street bridge was swept away and roads damaged; many houses and cellars were flooded and property destroyed. April 1, 1886--Israel's river swollen to an enormous degree, broke up the ice and a tremendous gorge was formed at the head of Frank Smith & Co's mill pond, obstructed by the solid mass of ice formed in the channel during a previous thaw....flooding occured into Mechanic Street..the ice and water struck the Town Hall building, carried away Aetna Engine No 2....No lives were lost. CHURCH HISTORY [Description of the old Meeting house and the preachers of the first church omitted] 1836, Orthodox Congregational Church. Original members were William Farrar, Porter G. Freeman, John Willson, Horace Whitcomb, John C. How, John Wilder, Ephraim Wilder, James Stone, Samuel L. Whidden, Gilman Wilder, Edmund C. WIlder, Daniel Stebbins, Edward Spalding, John Stalbird, Sarah Cady, Persis Everett, Edna Porter, Elizabeth Smith, Olive B. Holkins, Mehetable Willard, Mary S.H. Stickney, Martha B. Stickney, Tryphena Farrar, Abigail A. Bergin, Lucinda Baker, Catharine J. Whitcomb, Lydia How, Mercy Freeman, Mary N. Whidden, Rhoda Wilder, Sophronia Denison, Rebekah Denison, Ruth C. George, Harmony Moore, Mary Jane Moore, Sarah White, Lydia Bellows, Martha Phillips, Anna Bergin, Louisa Stebbins, Sarah Ann Moore, Amanda Stebbins, Persis Fayette Weeks, Julia J. Joyslin, Sally B. Salbird, Ann L. Whidden, Clarissa Hemmenway. [Additional church history found in the original document is not included here] THE LADIES BENEVOLENT SOCIETY, connected with the First Congregational society was formed March 8, 1854....("Ladies Circle") The following ladies have occupied the position of a president: Mrs. Nancy D. M. Sawyer, Mrs. George M. Rice, Miss Ellen A. White, Mrs. Hosea Gray, Mrs. William Burns, Mrs. L.F. Moore, Mrs. Jacob Hamblin, Mrs. W.A. Hicks, Mrs. George R. Eaton. The present officers are: Mrs. George R. Eaton, president; Mrs. John M. Hopkins, vice president; Mrs. C.L. Griswold, secretary and treasurer; Mrs. L.F. Moore, Mrs. W. H. Gray, Mrs. Frank Smith, Mrs. Warren Merrill, Mrs. James W. Weeks, Jr., directors; Mrs. I.W. Hopkinson, collector. ---------------- REV. JAMES BARNES MORRISON, is a native of Haverhill, Mass. His paternal ancestors were among the early pioneers of Londonderry NH. On the maternal side..from Essex county Mass. Mr. Morrison graduated from Meadville(PA) Theological seminar in 1877, settled in Nantucket, Mass the same year, remained there until 1880 when he commenced his pastoral charge of the First Unitarian Church in Lancaster NH. ------------------------------------ (Chronicles from R.P.Kent's Diary) July 27, 1845. The old meeting house, after its removal from the hill, finally placed upon its foundation & converted into a Town Hall and store. Dec. 11. Dr. Legro died. 1846, Jan 1. New bell raised on Congregational meeting house. Feb. 27. Col. Wilson died. 1847, Jan 25. Adino N. Brackett died. April 11. Recruiting officers around to get recruits for the army in Mexico.... Sept. 7-10 Brigade officers drill, 120 officers present. 1848. Aug 16, Ebenezer Twobmly, a revolutionary pensioner, died aged 93. 1849, Jan 10 Old Mrs. Stanley died. 1850, March 3, Mr. Wm Farrar died this evening. May 18. Joseph C. Cady, landlord of the Coos Hotel since 1835 died. July 27 Samuel S. Wentworth, a revolutionary pensioner, died, aged 94. 1851, Aug 23. Mr. Guy C. Cargill reached home at Lancaster, sick and exhausted having been absent in California since January 1849. He died the 25th. May 3 Mrs. David Stockwell died. July 21 Mr. Samuel Hunnux died, a native of England he emigrated to this place from London half a century ago, was supposed to be a hundred years old. 1852, Jan 22 Hon. Richard Eastman died, aged 74. 1853, April 3. Major John W. Weeks died aged 72. April 13 Mrs. Persis, wife of Major Weeks died. August 31 Mr. Manasseh Wilder one of the early settlers in town died. 1854, June 11 Geo. W. Lucas died, soldier of the war of 1812. Dec. 1. Railroad Disaster at Stark. Freight ran into passenger train. William Burns and others badly injured, Mrs. Taylor, daughter of Joseph Howe, mortally. Nov. 15 Mr. Seth Eames died at Northumberland. 1855, Jan 16. Earthquake in the evening; shock quite light. August 4. Mrs. Geo. W. Perkins an old resident died. Nov 15 Mr. Zadoc Cady died age 82. Nov 21 Mr. William Jones died age 81. 1856, March 25, James M. Rix, editor of Coos Democrat died at City Hotel Boston. 1857, March 22 Daniel A. Bowe, Editor of Coos Republican died. March 31. Samuel Rowell died of old age, over 90. July 13 Two sons of Fielding Smith, aged 15 & 17 drowned in the mill pond near their father's house. Nov 20 David Stockwell, 84 years old, the first white child born in town, burned to death in his house, which was consumed in the night. Dec 27. Dea. William Chamberlain of Jefferson died age 82. 1858, Jan 9 the old jail burned, built in 1805 of elm timbers hewed in 18 inch squares by Col. Chessman & Nathaniel White. March 19 James B. Weeks died aged 73. July 19 Dr. Eliphalet Lyman died of paralysis (had lived in Lancaster for about 43 years). 1859, July 28 Mr. Joseph Twombly, aged 90 years died, one of the earliest inhabitants. 1864, April 24 the "Coos Hotel" built by Ephraim Cross moved back from the street. May 21 Harvey Adams blacksmith & carriage shop and old factory building used as a saw-mill by O.E. Freeman were burned. June 24. Edward Kent and J.I. Williams went to Boston and bought a fire engine "Lafayette." July 14. 3000 people participate in the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the settlement of Lancaster, by a procession, addresses, music, songs & dinner in a bower in "Centennial Park""--at this celebration contributions of money were made sufficient to buy Centennial Park, which was conveyed to the town, to be held in trust as a public park. 1864. Presidential vote in Lancaster, Lincoln 284, McClellan 123. 1865. April 22 Thomas J. Crawford, landlord of the American House, who built the first Crawford House, White Mountains died this day. May 28. Israel Hicks, soldier of 1812 died. Aug 13. Eight cases of smallpox in town. 1866. March 20 Ephraim Stockwell died aged 92. 1868. Jan 13 Telegraph poles put up for line to Northumberland. Jan 22 New Library opened for taking out books, kept at office of G.O. Rogers, dentist. Aug 7 Men engaged in taking down County building on Middle St, materials to be used in erected a new Court House. Dec 8 Dr. Benjamin Hunking died age 86. 1869, Feb 5 Emmons Stockwell died aged 88. Feb 7 Lancaster Starch Col's building, Moore, Griswold & Bailey's peg mill, Richardson Bros. & Co furniture works burned. March 28 Ziba Lynds, an eccentric bachelor died age 72. May 6 Francis Willson died aged 83. Sept 18 Town voted to purchase 20 acres of land lying east of Summer St for a new cemetery. 1870 July 24 Great Fire at Colebrook. Aug 9 Douglass Spaulding died aged 86. Oct 20 Smart shock of earthquake, bells rung & clocks stopped. Nov 22 Funeral of Dr. John Bucknam at Congregational Church, he was a surgeon with the Fifth NH Regt, lived at Great Falls. 1871 July 20 Slight shock of earthquake. 1872. Presidential vote, Grant: 304; Greeley 254. Dec 19 Snow measures 26 inches in depth. Christmas eve temperature at 10 p.m. 30 degrees below. Christmas morning, temperature at Lancaster house 46 degrees below, coldest morning since 1857. 1873 May 9 Alpheus Hutchins, soldier of the war of 1812 died. 1874 April 12 Sally Stanley a native of Lancaster, died unmarried, aged 82. 1875 Nov 27 William Lovejoy an old resident died. 1876 July 4 Centennial Celebration. Guns fired at sunrise and fire works at night. Processions of "Antiques & Horribles" followed by another of citizens, fire companies etc with bands of music. Historical account of early settlement of Lancaster read by J.S. Brackett. Sept 9 Col. E. E. Cross who died the 6th was buried with Masonic honors. Dec 25 Father Noisseaux who for 20 years had been Catholic priest here, removes to Brunswick Maine. 1877 March 23 Fire Engine House moved from Canal Street to Baker block east of the grist mill. August 12 Roswell Chessman, a native of Lancaster who owned a fine meadow farm known as "Egypt" but who has been for years an inmate of the State Insane Asylum, died today, aged 78. 1878 April 4 Mr. Warren Porter a resident of Lancaster since 1809 died today aged 84. 1879 Feb 27 George Howe died aged 76, a simple-minded eccentric person known as Dr. Howe for many years. He was a monomaniac on theology and medicine. 1880 April 13 Mrs. Edward Melcher a blind woman eight years old was burnt to death by her clothing taking fire. July 26 American House burned. 1881. March 10 Mrs. William Heywood died this morning aged 73. 1882. May 8 Lancaster House to be rebuilt by John Lindsey to have 50 rooms with all modern improvements. Dec 19 Slight shock of earthquake felt this evening. 1883, March 16 Orange Wilder died aged 75 years, a native of Lancaster and occupying through his life the farm on which he was born. July 14 Seth Adams, aged 78 died, a native and life long resident of the town, a strictly honest and conscientious man. Mrs. Abigail, wife of Col. Ephraim Cross, died age 78. August 3, Seth Savage died aged 77 years, a native and life long resident of Lancaster. Oct 28, Mr. Samuel Rowell died, aged 73 years. 1884 Dec 31 Mr. Sylvester Marsh the inventor and President of the Mount Washington railway, died at Concord yesterday. [EARLY EDUCATION in original document not included here] THE PUBLIC LIBRARY-In 1860 a reading club was organized for mutual improvement, and adopted measures to purchase books for the use of its members. In 1860 the first fund raiser was held. In 1867 they re-organized with a constitution and bylaws. By 1870 they had 1,102 books. George P. Rowell donated the use of his building to house the books permanently. page 342 MERCHANTS Our merchants have always been among our leading men. They used to be called "store keepers," and those of the olden time, one of the first was a native of France, by the name of Toscan, who had served under the Bourbons as consul at Portsmouth, but, who on the accession of Napoleon, came to Lancaster, and kept a variety of article on sale near the residence of Allen Chase, in district No. 2. His dwelling and store was burned out about 1804, wherepon he returned to Portsmouth, and, after the overthrow of the empire, went back to his native land. Titus O. Brown, who exported the first and only tobacco from Coos, had his residence near the south end of the lower bridge and nearly on the site of the building now occupied by Charles Howe as a harness shop. Col. Stephen Wilson was located at the north end, as was Benjamin Boardman, Thomas Carlisle, John M. Denison, and for a while, William Cargill. Samuel White, father of the late Nathaniel White, of Concord, kept his goods in the bar-room of his tavern, as late as 1825. These men were succeeded by Royal Joyslin, R.P. Kent, Reuben Stephenson, Charles Bellows, William Sampson, Lewis C. Porter, Hosea Gray, D.A. Burnside, and a list of others, who, for a time, were associated with them. Today the oldest firm in town is that of "R.P. Kent & Son" represented by Col. E.R. Kent, surviving partner. This house is the largest purely mercantine establishment in Coos county, with an immense stock of dry goods, ready-made clothing, carpets, groceries, farming utensils, etc. etc. Next in order come those of James A. Smith (forty years a merchant here), Kent & RObers (Nelson Kent and Burleigh Roberts), Bailey & Smith and S.G. Evans, each carrying a stock of dry goods unsurpassed in variety in Coos. NELSON KENT was born in Lyman, N.H., He married Debby N., daughter of William D. and Sarah A. (Goss) Spaulding. He came to Lancaster in 1836, and was clerk for his brother, R.P. Kent, with shom he entered into partnership in 1840, and continued for three years. In 1860 he became a partner of R.P. Kent & Son, with the firm name of R.P. Kent, Son & Co. In 1870 he formed the business house of Kent & Spaulding (John W.) C. L. Griswold succeeded Mr. Spaulding, who died in 1883, and he was succeeded by Burleigh Roberts, forming the present firm of Kent & Roberts. Mr. Kent, for half a century, has been among the business men of Lancaster, and his courteous manners, strict integrity and honorable dealings are known to all. FRANK SMITH & Co. (Smith & Bullard) besides being general grocers and provision dealers have a large trade in flour and grain, coal, wood and lumber, supplying these articles to a great extent, a large surrounding country. The grocery and provision trade is further represented by D.W. Smith, Howe Brothers, C.C. Noyes, A.G. Evans, W.R. Evans, Joseph McGee and in East Lancaster by George S. Stockwell. Books and Stationery--George H. Colby has the largest and best selected stock of books in the county. On his shelves can be found the standard authors, and a great variety of miscellaneous works. Orders for magazines, subscription books, and other publications are made a specialty. In connection with his book trade, he has a job printing office. He is one of the best book-buyers and book sellers in the state. Hardware and Agricultural Implements--are extensively sold by Cobleigh & Moore, who keep as fine a stock as can be found in any county town--also by George S. Morse in a more limited variety. Tailoring and clothing establishments are represented by Thomas S. Underwood, Nelson Sparks, C. Deitrich and George W. Lane, while many of the merchants keep ready-made clothes on hand. Boots, Shoes, Etc by Vernon R. Smith, Hazo Woodward, and C.E. Allen. Millinery and dress goods, by Mrs. S.G. Evans, Mrs. Mallard and Mrs. Cross. The trade today is chiefly a cash trade, whereas, before the construction of the railroad it was a system of barter, hay, grain and farm products being exchanged for the various commodities the merchants had on hand, and it was not always by any means that their stocks in trade embraced a good variety. MANUFACTURES-- Years ago the spinning wheel, flax wheel and the old fashioned hand-loom were heard in almost every house and cabin in this section. "Homespun" and hand-woven fabrics were worn by all classes; and of course fulling mills were necessary, where the cloth was not only fulled, by dyed, and as it was called, dressed. At one time the town and two of these mills in successful operation one of these being the Going mill--taking its name from Asahel Going on or near the site of the furniture factory of N.H. Richardson on Water street, and the other on or near the site of the saw-mill now owned and run by F. Smith & Co; but the necessity for these mills has ceased, as cloths and clothing are manufactured elsewhere. Carriages and various vehicles for comfort and use in transportation and conveyance have been extensively manufactued here since about 1842; Harvey Adams being the first to make a specialty of this branch of business. His shops were at various times in different localities, once at the old trip hammer shop, so-called, where Mathew Monahan now does business as blacksmith, again where James McCarten now works and does a large business as blacksmith, and again and lastly in the building where is now Charles Howe's harness shop. Edward DuFoe at one time had a carriage and furniture shop on the premises recently owned and occupied by Hon. B.F. Whidden, but now the residence of George Van Dyke. DuFoe brought to public notice the Elliptic spring buggy; such an improvement on the old thorough brace wagon, that its elegance and ease was unquestioned. Thompson Manufacturing Co--Samuel Rines has been for many years engaged in the business of blacksmithing, had acquired some property, and was the owner of the saw-mill, which had long been a feature in the business of the town, located on the northern side of Israel's river, near where his blacksmith shop was situated; there, in conjunction with his son, W.M. Rines, he began the manufacture of plows and various agricultural implements. The "Rines plow" had a celebrity which was well deserved, and some of them are still doing service on the farms of Coos. In 1858 the property passed into the hands of Jared I. Williams & Co, who conducted it with improvements in machinery and a more extensive business until May 1860 when Alexander and Daniel Thompson bought an interest, and the firm became Thompson, Williams & Co., making nearly all the kinds of machinery then in use. The genius and taste of Alexander Thompson added largely to the success of the establishment. In 1869 an incorporated company was formed, "The Lancaster Iron Works" which after an existence of a year, was dissolved, the business passing into the hands of Alexander Thompson. January 9, 1873, the old machine shop was burned, and Mr. Thompson lost the results of years of labor, inventive genius and industry. Fifteen thousand dollars was an enormous loss to the enterprising man, but he did not slacken his labor. He at once purchased the property of the defunct "Lancaster Starch Co" on Canal Street, and put up a new shop the same year...In 1874 Mr. Thompson admitted Kimball B. Fletcher Jr., as a partner under the firm name "Alex. Thompson & Co." This continued to the death of Mr. Thompson, in 1882, until May 7, 1884 when the "Thompson Manufacturing Company" was formed with these members: K.B. Fletcher, Jr., F.H. Twitchell, W.T. Jones, and C.H. Balch. Anderson J. Marshall, engaged in the manufacture of furniture beginning in 1847, the construction of carriages on a small scale also. In 1852 his shops burned, but he rebuilt larger. His health failing he turned the business over to his son, Antipas P. Marshall, who associated himself with Wright Chamberlain, and then with Hon. George R. Eaton creating "Marshall & Eaton." Paper Mill--At a town meeting held April 15, 1864 it was voted "that the selectmen be, and hereby are, instructed to lease in perpetuity to K.B. Fletcher, Edmond Brown, Henry O. Kent, Jason H. Woodward, J.W. Spaulding, Charles W. Roby, Frank Smith and C.E. ALlen, doing business at K.B. Fletcher & Co, or their assigns, the waters of Israel's river and its bed, and the land on both sides of the same...for the sum of one dollar annually for the benefit of schools in said town... and that said lessees shall erect...a straw board mill, or some other manufacturing of like importance to the town within a suitable time to keep the same in operation. The Lancaster Manufacturing Co was soon formed and a mill built with a capacity for producing several tons of strawboard a week. In 1867 S.H. LeGro became treasurer and superintendent and was in charge until Aug 1871, when H.O. Kent became treasurer, and J.H. Woodward, agent. It was not a financial success, and Mr. LeGro and Col. Kent took the mill off the stockholders hands and agreed to pay its indebtedness. In 1871 it was fitted to manufacture paper. Its production has been from nine to ten tons per week of wrapping and manilla paper, and gave employment to about ten men. In November 1885 the mill was sold to T.M. Stevens, of Boston, and the business is now conducted by E.A. Booth and H.E. Stevens. Next in importance in the manufacturing interests of the town is the furniture factory of N.H. Richardson & Son (late Richardson & Folsom) who employ from 8 to 10 men, and whose sale of furniture, finished and unfinished, are very extensive. Mr. Richardson came here in 1867 and purchased the property formerly owned by Oliver Baker (one of the first who made the manufacture of bedsteads, bureaus and house finishing goods a specialty in Lancaster). Samuel Philbrook made bureaus, chairs and bedsteads. Frank Smith & Co. (Frank Smith and Willie E. Bullard) employ a large number of men and teams, aside from their large store already mentioned. The grist-mill, embracing all the neccessary appliances for custom work, has also the means for converting a large amount of foreign grain into flour and meal. What and corn is shipped in large quantities to their mills from the west, and then retailed throughout the surround country. Their planing-mill and hay-pressing establishment, located just east of the flouring-mill, the saw-mill on the south side of the river--each are employed most of the time. The Door, Sash and Blind Factory of Leavitt & Hartford (Eugene Leavitt and N.E. Hartford) does an extensive business and consequently employs a number of men. The Carding Works of Ira E. Woodward (he being also engaged in the manufacture of carriages) is another quite important element in the prosperity of the town. East Lancaster--There are several saw-mills in town, one known as the Stockwell mill, on the site of the old mill once owned and run by Major Joel Hemmenway, in the east part of the town. And let me say, that around that locality has sprung up quite a little village, known as "East Lancaster" with its store (dry goods and groceries) of which George S. Stockwell is the proprietor, a shoe store, William G. Ellis proprietor (who is also postmaster of "Grange" postoffice), three shops, and a general air of enterprise and thfit, where only a few years ago there was a solitary saw-mill and a single dwelling house. Other Saw Mills--Higher up the brook is the saw mill of John M. Whipple, who manufactures almost exclusively hard wood lumber. This mill was built by John H. Spaulding more than forty years ago, and has done a great deal of work. Shattuck & Amidon have a small water-mill on Beaver Brook. John M. Clark has quite a manufactory in connection with his saw-mill, near the south line of town, near Scott's Junction. On the Great Brook in the "Gore" is a saw-mill now run by steam, George W. Garland, proprietor, and where the immense quantities of timber on the Pliny range of hills and in their valleys in the township of Kilkenny, is rapidly being cut into boards, etc. In 1878 D. &. H. Beattie had a steam saw-mill at South Lancaster... they made a specialty of headings for molasses and hogsheads. This mill was totally destroyed by fire, and was never rebuilt. Hilliard & Allen owned a steam saw-mill one mile north of the court-house in the same year, which cut lumber from logs brought down the Connecticut. Miscellaneous--The manufacture of potato starch was formerly extensively carried on but the business had dwindled to merely nothing, in fact nearly faded out of existence. At one time, sixty years ago, Benjamin Adams distilled potato whisky; the "still-house" standing opposite the house where Adam Gurensey now lives. There were other distilleries in town, but their location is somewhat uncertain. Mr. Adams was a blacksmith, and made the best hoes, shovels, and hay forks then in use. Sylvanus Chesman, who owned a large tract of land, embracing what is now "Egypt" extending easterly up Israel's river, above the present village limits in that direction, was one of the old-time blacksmiths, who accumulated a large property. He was the builder and proprietor of the "Chesman Tavern," afterwards called the "American House." The blacksmiths of today are those connected with Marshall & Eaton's carriage manufactory, Riley Hosmer, James and Matthew Monahan, James and Robert McCarten. Apothecaries, Druggists and Physicians--The first to set up a distinctive "apothecary shop" in town was Dr. John W. Barney, who was, for a long time, a leading physician in the county. Previous to his enterprise, drugs and medicines were retailed at the various stores, notably by Richard P. Kent at whose establishment anything could be procured in all the range of articles needed in the community, from a grindstone to a grain of quinine. The doctors of old times bought their medicines in bulk, and compounded them as occasion required; it was a part of the medical student's duty, who "read" with the local doctors to make the pills, and do the other work neceesary for filling the "saddle-bags" of their instructors, as they went out to visit their patients. Dr. Barney was succeeded by Edward Savage, and he in turn by Dr. Frank Colby who associated himself with his brother Charles F. Colby. This firm with some changes, has carried on a very successful business to the present time, and now requires a capital and skill greater than any establishment of the kind which had preceded it in the county. Parker J. Noyes, a native of this county, and a soldier in the late war, learned the business of pharmacist at St. Johnsbury, and came here in 1868 and purchased the lot and building where the office of James M. Rix had formerly stood, but which burned with all the court records in 1846. Here Mr. Noyes commenced business, he has enlarged and developed it until it is now one of the leading establishments in town. Orders are received from many of the leading druggists and physicians of New England, and from the south and west, and they are filled by express and mail. Physicians--The physicians prior to 1800 were not men of very scientific attainments; but they posssessed a certain kind of skill sufficient for the times. Dr. Samuel White, the first settled physician in the Coos county, located at Newbury, Vt in 1773 and visited Lancaster professionally in its early days. Dr. Francis Willson and a Dr. Chapman were the first settled physicians; of them much might be truthfully said in praise. In 1776 a woman afterward known as "Granny" Stalbird came from Portsmouth with the family of Col. Whipple, who settled in Jefferson, and resided with them a number of years, and was undoubtedly a most excellent nurse; but she styled herself a "doctor" and had a great reputation in certain families for the art of healing diseases. Dr. Samuel Lego was for a number of years a leading physician in town, a man of very strong natural ability and sterling worth. Many anecdotes are related of him, illustrating his sense of humor and professional skill, which will live long in the traditions of the times. Dr. Benjamin Hunking was born in Newbury, Vt. He graduated from the medical department of Dartmouth college in 1808. He received a commission as assistant surgeon in the U.S. Navy, and was stationed at several naval stations, and on board ship, during the War of 1812. He came to Lancaster from Portsmouth about 1815. He married Drusilla, eldest daughter of Hon. Richard E. Everett. His descendants are among the first people of Lancaster. His practice extended to the limits of the county, and he was everywhere reckoned skillful and honest in his calling. He held various offices, was postmaster a long time, and judge of probate for 23 years, and the confidence reposed in him by his fellow citizens is proof of the esteem in which he was held. His death occurred in 1868, at the age of eighty-six years. Dr. Eliphalet Lyman, whose ancestors were of the best lineage of New England, was a graduate of Dartmouth Medical School, and came to town in 1815. His science was unquestioned, and he immediately took a stand as one of the ablest practitioners in all Northern New Hampshire; and, in all difficult cases, whether in physic or surgery, was consulted and his opinions were of great weight. During the later years of his life, Dr. Lyman relinquished medical practice, and opened an office as justice of the peace, the lawyers esteeming him on account of his mental ability and giving him business. He was a prominent member of North Star Lodge, F.A.M. and was buried with honors of the order, July 1858. Dr. Jacob E. Stickney was a native of Maine and came to Lancaster in 1823, married Martha, daughter of Nathaniel and Mary (Nye) Goss, and continued the practice of his profession until nearly the time of his death, which occurred in 1869. Dr. George T. Dexter was for a short time associated with him. In 1843 Dr. John W. Barney came here from St. Johnsbury, Vt., and soon took a very high place as a skillful physician and surgeon. Dr. Barney represented the old senatorial district, No 12 in the legislature of NH for two terms. He subsequently moved to Concord, and died there in 1883, but his remains, at his request, were brought here and buried with Masonic honors. Dr. James D. Folsom, now of St. Johnsbury, was for a number of years located in town. Dr. John W. Bucknam, a grandson of Gen. Edwards Bucknam, commenced practice in town, but was appointed assistant surgeon of the "Fighting Fifth" in which he served, being promoted to surgeon, until the close of the war, when he settled at Great Falls, NH where he died several years ago. The present medical practitioners are: Dr. Ezra Mitchell, a native of Maine, Dr. E.R. Stockwell, a native of this town, and a descendant of Emmons Stockwell, Dr. Oscar Worthley, who was a surgeon in the 2d NH Vols in the late war, and Dr. W.H. Leith, who are of the "old school" of allopathists. Drs. D. L. Jones and Frank Spooner, homeopathists, Dr. Samuel Wellington and A.W. Wark, dentists. WHITE MOUNTAIN MEDICAL SOCIETY--organized at White's Inn, Lancaster, May 17, 1820. Dr. John Willard, moderator; Dr. William Burns, of Littleton, secretary pro tem. The society was incorporated June 23, 1821. Dr. Eliphalet Lyman was the first permanent president. Its membership came from both sides of the Connecticut and it has had an uninterrupted activity in usefulness. HOTELS-- Lancaster House- is a modern structure where 150 guests can be accomodated. Gas and steam heat. N.A. Linsdey & Co, proprietors Williams House- has accomodations for fifty guests. John N. Hopkins proprietor Mt. Prospect House- built on the summit of Mt. Prospect, in 1883 by W. H. Smith. Its elevation 1,240 feet above the station, and 2,090 feet above tide water. Hillside Cottage- is a pleasant summer boarding place. W.L. Rowell, proprietor. A mineral spring of medicinal virtues has recently been discovered on the grounds. Elm Cottage- Mrs. M.E. Hunking, proprietor, is a brick building, surrounded by magnificent trees, and has been a favorite stopping place with many for a long time. Before the Lancaster House was rebuilt it was for some time the only hotel in town. TOWN OFFICERS [the original source shows officers to 1887, but the only years included here would be approximately of the time of the American Revolution] TOWN CLERKS 1769-1789 Edward Bucknam, 1790 Samuel Johnson 1791-96 Jonas Barker 1796-1800 SELECTMEN 1769, David Page, Abner Osgood, George Wheeler, Emmons Stockwell, Edwards Bucknam 1770, David Page, Edwards Bucknam, Emmons Stockwell 1771, David Page, Emmons Stockwell, Edwards Bucknam 1772, David Page, Emmons Stockwell, Daniel Cross 1773, David Page, Edwards Bucknam, Emmons Stockwell 1774, David Page, Daniel Cross, David Page, Jr. 1775, David Page, Edwards Bucknam, Emmons Stockwell 1776, David Page, Edwards Bucknam, Emmons Stockwell 1777, Emmons Stockwell, Edwards Bucknam, Moses Page 1778, Emmons Stockwell, Edwards Bucknam, David Page Jr. 1779, Jonas Wilder, Emmons Stockwell, Edwards Bucknam 1780, Edwards Bucknam, Jonas Wilder, Emmons Stockwell 1781, Jonas Wilder, Edwards Bucknam, Emmons Stockwell 1782, Jonas Wilder, Edwards Bucknam Emmons Stockwell 1783, Edwards Bucknam, Jonas Wilder, Emmons Stockwell 1784, Jonas Wilder, Edwards Bucknam, Emmons Stockwell 1785, Edwards Bucknam, Jonas Wilder, David Page 1786, Edwards Bucknam, David Page, Emmons Stockwell 1787 Edwards Bucknam, Jonas Wilder, Samuel Johnson 1788 Col. Jonas Wilder, Edwards Bucknam, Emmons Stockwell, Samuel Johnson, Jonas Baker 1789, Edwards Bucknam, Capt. John Weeks, Col. Jonas Wilder 1790, Edward Bucknam, Emmons Stockwell, Francis Wilson [more not included here] REPRESENTATIVES [only a few years included here] 1801-1802 Richard C. Everett 1807-1813 William Lovejoy 1815-1818, 1821, 1823 Adino N. Brackett 1819, 1819, 1821 Richard Eastman [more not included here] POST OFFICE--The first we can ascertain concerning the mail service is that Stephen Wilson was postmaster in 1803, and that the mail was carried to and from Haverhill at that time once a week on horseback. Col. Wilson was succeeded in 1807 by Abraham Hines. In 1812 Samuel A. Pearson was appointed and held the office until 1829... [more info not included here] BANKS The Lancaster Bank-incorporated in 1833 with John H. White president and Royal Joyslin cashier. The charter expired and the bank closed in 1855. The White Mountain Bank- formed in 1852 with officers: president, James B. Sumner; cashier, G.C. Williams; directors, J.B. Sumner, Barton G. Towne, James W. Weeks, E.C. Spaulding, Oliver B. Howe, Hezekiah Parson, Jr., Moses Woodward. After a scandle involving a cashier leaving the country with more than $40,000 in funds, the bank closed. The Lancasteer National Bank incorporated in 1881 with George R. Eaton, president; Everett Fletcher, vice-president; Frank D. Hutchins, cashier; board of directors, Ossian Ray, George R. Eaton, William Clough, C.B. Jordan, A.J. Marshall, Everett Fletcher (Lancaster), Seneca S. Merrill (Colebrook), R.H. Porter, H.O. Coolidge (Keene). Lancaster Savings Bank- formed due to Col. Henry O. Kent, who petitioned the legislature in 1868. The charter was granted as "The Savings Bank of the County of Coos". It occupied the Kent Building. Original trustees were H.A. Fletcher, R.P. Kent, A.J. Marshall, B.F. Whidden, Edmund Brown, S.H. LeGro, J.I. Williams LaF. Moore, C.W. Smith, E. Savage and E.V. Cobleigh. In 1883 the name changed to "Lancaster Savings Bank." The Siwooganock Guaranty Saving Bank - organized in 1887 with the following officers: William S. Ladd, president; F.D. Hutchins, treasurer. Trustees: George R. Eaton, William S. Ladd, William Clough, C.B. Jordan, Everett Fletcher, Charles A. Bailey, F.D. Hutchins. The New Cemetery--in March 1868, the "old yard was declared to be full" and a new cemetery was to be researched. Nineteen acres east of Summer street were recommended and adopted. The cemetery was surrounded with a picket fence in 1870. SOCIETIES [more detail in original document, only the names of the organizations to be included here] Oliver Branch Chapter of the Eastern Star, Adoptive Masonry - instituted March 16, 1870 Odd Fellowship- organized about 1850 Coos Lodge No 25 - ? Col. E.E. Cross Post G.A.R. No. 16 - charter January 16, 1869 Col. E.E. Cross Women's Relief Post No 39 - organized September 21, 1886 Fire Department - Lafayette Engine Co No 1. ============================================ B I O G R A P H I E S CAPTAIN EMMONS STOCKWELL Emmons and Ruth Stockwell lived together fifty-five years. At the time of her decease their descendants were known to be about 200, 180 of whom are supposed to be living. Their children were fifteen in number, and no death occurred in the family until the youngest was more than 20 years of age. Their grandchildren number ninety-two, and great-grandchildren, 90. Captain Stockwell died November 1819 in the seventy-eight year of his age. Mrs. Stockwell died March 21, 1828 EDWARDS BUCKNAM Edwards Bucknam born at Athol, Mass, June 21 1741, was a resident of Lancaster in 1764, and became a prominent leading man. He married Susannah Page, and settled at the mouth of Beaver brook. Their daughter Eunice was the first white female child born in Lancaster. "Mr. Bucknam was a man of unbounded hospitaliry and usefulness, was a dead shot with his 'smooth bore,' could draw teeth, 'let blood,' perform the duties of priest in marrying, was one of the most skillful and accurate surveyors in the state, was proprietors' and town clerk (his house and records were destroyed by fire in 1772). He became general of the militia; surveyed for towns and people in all quarters; wrote deeds, tried causes, drafted agreements, etc. etc." He died March 9, 1813. LIEUT. DANIEL STANLEY came, with Col. Whipple, from Kittery, Me, to Dartmouth (Jefferson). He was a tanner by trade and commenced business there, but moved to Lancaster prior to 1776, where he married Sarah Bishop, from Boscawen, NH. They had a large family of children, whose descendants are most respectable people. He followed his vocation till his death which occurred in 1813. He owned the best farm north of Haverhill hill. It contained 650 acres and now belongs to Capt. A.M. Beattie. The house still retains its shape and size as when he occupied it, and was the resort, and almost the home, of the halt, the lame, and the blind. As can be seen today, the house could almost quarter a regiment. Like all others, when in need of fresh meat, Lieut. Stanley hunted the moose, whose nearest feeding ground was Cherry pond. Most of the skins of the moose killed in this section found their way into his tan-vats, and made valuable material for clothing. He was a man of fair education, of strong mental power, prominent in town affairs and liberal in his views. His house was a place where the early Methodists--Rosebrook, Crawford, Reeves and others--held their meetings, although neither he nor his family were of that denomination. Mrs. Stanley died January 11, 1849, aged eighty-seven years. She had resided in Lancaster more than seventy years. MAJOR JONAS WILDER came here about 1778, from Templeton, Massachusetts. He purchased a square mile of land extending from the "Holton House" to Israel's river. He built the house in Lancaster now (1887) occupied by Horace Holton, and also erected the first grist and saw-mill here. He was on a committee to select a public burial ground in March 1779, and presented the mound known as the "old grave-yard" to be used for that purpose. Mr. Wilder was enterprising and public-spirited, entering with his whole heart into any movement tending to the good of the community. He died in 1810, at the age of seventy-eight. In the "old grave-yard" is a handsome white granite monument, erected to his memory in 1885. JOSEPH BRACKETT was a lieutenant in the minute-men of the time of the Revolution, and was called to the defense of Portsmouth when an attack was apprehended from the royal troops. In 1787 he purchased two rights of land in Lancaster, about 640 acres. In March, 1788, he mounted his horse and started from Lee, N.H. for Lancaster. Arriving at Bartlett, he learned that the road through the Notch was impassable for his horse. The next morning, finding a snow-shoe track which led to Dartmouth (Jefferson), he shouldered his saddle-bags and proceeded on foot, and alone, through the Notch to Col. Whipple's, a distance of thirty-one miles; from there, where he had comfortable accomodations for the night, he easily reached Capt. Week's house, the distance being twelve miles. At that time there was only one house between Obed Hall's in Bartlett and Col. Whipple's in Jefferson; that occupied the site now known as the Fabyan House. During the summer Mr. Brackett cleared a few acres, built a log house and returned in the fall to Lee. On the 20th of January, 1789, he set out on his upward journey of 130 miles, with his family, one ox-team, a few cows and sheep; after eleven days of travel they reached their home in the then wilderness of Lancaster. Joseph Brackett was a man of genial humor and vivacity, which endeared him to many friends. He was for many years a deacon in the church. He died April 5, 1813. ADINO NYE BRACKETT, son of Lieut. Joseph and Mary (Weeks) Brackett was born in Lee, NH in 1777, came to Lancaster in 1789, and married Mary W. Weeks in 1807. They had six children, of whom two are now living, Adino Nye and James Spaulding. In 1800 he was elected hog reeve, highway surveyor and tything-man. In 1803, chosen selectman, which office he held for seven years; representative in 1814 and at various subsequent dates; was clerk of the superior court, and one of the most valuable and useful citizens. He posssessed an open and frank disposition, was accurate and prompt in the discharge of all duties. Professional men sought his society for his extensive and varied knowledge, gathered largely by long years of steady and continuous reading, and close and scientific observation of nature. He was a great lover of history. He was an accurate and reliable surveyor, and became thoroughly conversant with the White Mountains and vicinity, and established by actual survey the altitudes of the various mountain heights. Mr. Brackett was a man of commanding appearance, and a gentleman by nature, and was held in the very highest estimation by all who had honor of his acquaintance. Whatever tended to elevate and improve society and enlighten the people, found in Adino N. Brackett an ardent, consistent and faithful friend. He was a graphic writer and speaker, and contributed much to the value of the literature of the day. He died in 1847. Adino Nye is a physician in Virginia. James Spaulding Brackett inherited many traits from his father, and is a ready writer, and interested in historical research. TITUS OLCOTT BROWN, born in Tolland, Conn., August 25, 1764, after his marriage settled in Lancaster. He engaged in the hotel and transportation business, and was the first person to carry the produce of Upper Coos through the Notch of the White Mountains to Portland. He afterwards moved to Bartlett, and was an inn-keeper at Gray Corner. In 1833 he went to Norway, Me., and kept a hotel until 1842. He resided in Norway until his death in 1855. His son, J.B. Brown, born in Lancaster, was for many years a leading business man in Portland, one of the principal movers in establishing and constructing the Atlantic & Pacific R.R., and in creating the Berlin Mills Company. COL. STEPHEN WILSON (WILLSON) had a clearing and a log hut in the interval near the present village as early as 1786. He kept hotel in many towns of Coos county; he was also a veteran stage proprietor, and even after he was seventy years of age acted as a mail carrier, and for many years did the freighting for Lancaster, via the White Mountain Notch, with Carlos Page for wagon master. Mr. Wilson was an active kindly and genial man. He died in Northumberland NH May 6, 1869. JAMES PERKINS came before 1800, married Lucy, daughter of Major Jonas Wilder, and lived in the first house built on the "common," near the old meeting-house. He traded this place to his brother Daniel, who moved from Wakefield to Lancaster in 1805, and returned to Dover. Daniel Perkins was a native of Dover, and was a tailor here for many years. His daughter Adeline married Allen Smith, who was a drummer in the War of 1812. After the war Mr. Smith started a saddler's and harnessmaker's shop in Lancaster, which, with his house, was located on the lot where Hopkinson stone house stands. In 1836 he bought the place where, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years, his venerable widow, graceful and interesting, now resides. His shop was where George W. Lane's clothing store is now, and here, for over thirty years, he carried on a constant business. He was a native of Hanover, N.H., a valued member of North Star Lodge of Mason, a steward, and class-leader of the Methodist church, to which both he and his wife belonged for many years. He died in 1873, aged eighty-two. Among his ten children were William and James A., so long business men of Lancaster. The latter is probably the oldest merchant now in actual trade in the county [see MERCHANTS]. MAJOR MOSES WHITE was a man of more than ordinary gifts and culture, and a model business man. During the Revolution he was actively a participant, and for quite a period served on the staff of Gen. Moses Hazen. His business abilities rended him of use to his uncle in his extensive operations, and his counsel and active interference were often required in untangling complications. The Lancaster lands of Gen. Hazen became the property of Major White under the will of the General; but in such an involved condition to require years of time, much expense and litigation before they were cleared. Major White became a resident of Lancaster in 1815. He was from Rutland, Mass., a merchant, and in the language of those who remember him, "a most courtly, and aristocratic gentleman." page 363 JOHN H. WHITE, son of Moses White, was register of deeds for several years, sheriff ten successive years, an influential member of Gov. Page's Council; at one time a candidate for governor. He was for years a trustee of the State Lunatic Asylum. Honorable and true in all relations. He filled all local town offices with marked ability and was one of the foremost in every public enterprise. ROYAL JOYSLIN came to Lancaster from Bath in June 1825, and was in trade from that time, alone, and with partners until 1867, when he sold his store building to Porter Brothers, and closed out his goods by auction. He was a typical old-style country merchant, and was the leading business man for many years, and quite successful; but he could not adapt himself to the changes of business methods in later years, and he gradually lost his customers, and when he died he had little property. He always held the confidence and esteem of the people as a thoroughly honest man. He died July 16, 1880, in his eighty-fifth year. COL. EPHRAIM CROSS was, during a long life, a prominent man in Northern New Hampshire, holding officers of honor and trust--town, county, state and national. He was always a leader in society, a kind neighbor, a genial companion and warm friend. He died in 1876. SETH SAVAGE, born in Lancaster, January 27, 1807, died August 4, 1883. He married Martha Spaulding. Of their children nine attained maturity; Edward, Hubbard, Sarah (Mrs. Alden Lewis), Lucy (Mrs. James Bain), Henry, John, Charlotte, Mattie and Cyrus (who was a soldier in the civil war, and died while at the front from the hardships and exposures of the military service). When a young man Mr. Savage became well known as an excellent school teacher, and he taught in Lancaster, Jefferson, Whitefield and adjoining towns. Before 1840 probably no persons in this vicinity was more noted as a teacher in our common schools. In his younger days he was also quite successful in teaching singing schools. He was a good singer, and for many years sang in the Congregational church choir of Lancaster. He was a selectman for twelve or fifteen years. He was a representative to the General Court of New Hampshire in 1859 and 1860. Originally a Whig in politics, he joined the Republican party at its organization, and remained a sturdy Republican to the end of his life. Mr. Savage was an affectionate husband and father, a kind friend and neighbor, a generous and public-spirited citizen. In all his dealings with his fellowmen he was just, faithful and capable. EARLY MARRIAGES - William Johnson to Polly Stockwell, November 13, 1786 - George Brown to Polly Bucknam, September 3, 1789 - Nathan Lovewell to Charlotte Stockwell, December 27, 1792 - John McIntyre to Sally Stockwell, March 19, 1792 - Richard C. Everett to Persis Wilder, December 17, 1793 - John Sanborn to Sally Crawford, of Guildhall, November 12, 1795. In 1750 a small tribe of Indians near Litchfield,Conn., removed to the mouth of White river, Vermont, to find a peaceful home, and became farmers and mechanics. John, a son of Annawanski, their chief, often came in hunting expeditions to the Upper Cohos, and moved, in 1806, with his wife, to Lancaster, where he built his camp in Indian style, on Beaver brook, near Israel's river. Of his thirteen children, eight married whites. ZADOC CADY, in the early days of Lancaster, was a 'character.' He was a mason by trade, and always had a 'puttering job." At one time he was a messenger to the court. The old court-house was warmed by the first stove I ever saw. This stove was a brick structure about five feet square, and two and a half feet high, surmounted by a potash-kettle turned bottom up, with a hole through the bottom, over which the smoke-pipe was riveted. It was capable of heating half an acre. On one occasion, Judge Livermore, who was to hold the court, came up at night, and walking out in the morning saw the court-house door open, walked in, and saw Cady (who did not know the Judge) stuffing wood into the stove. "You are getting up a pretty good heat here," said the Judge. "Yes," says Uncle Zadoc, "I understand Livermore is a frozen old cuss, and I'll see if I can't get it warm enough for him once." The Judge went out, and in due time the court was opened in great state. Mr. Sheriff with cockade on his hate, sword at a "carry," and as straight as half a dozen ramrods, escorting Judge Livermore. Cady saw he was caught and was in a pickle. As there was nothing else for him to do, he kept cramming wood into the stove till it was almost at a red heat. The old Judge stopped and said: "Mr. Messenger, you need not put any more wood into the stove, the 'old cuss' is warm enough." Cady was sexton, and George W. Ingerson was appointed in his stead. In his rage and spite at the loss of his place, he said, 'he hoped to God that there would not be a person die in town that year.' He had a good and amiable wife, and a large and respected family. ZIBA LYNDS was well-known to many of the present generation. He knew or cared little about the ways of society, legal or moral, preferring to live a hermit life in his little cabin near the pine woods above the village. Many years ago Ziba appeared one Lord's day in the old meeting-house with a miscellaneous collection of silver coin, which he wished to deposit as an 'offering to the Lord.' It being suggested that some one take care of it, he concluded that he would take care of it himself. After a time it was reported that he had buried it, and soon the rumor grew, and was believed by many that he had large treasures hidden away, which he had forgotten. He was under guardianship as an insane person during his later years. Previous to his death in 1869 he strongly desired to return to his native town, Charlestown, NH but he was not allowed to go. His last request was that he might be buried there, and fifteen dollars in gold were found sewed in the arm-pit of his shirt to pay the expense of transportation. His request was complied with. HISTORICAL AND PERSONAL NOTES IN ROYAL JOYSLIN'S LEDGER-- An interesting relic is in the possession of Edward R. Kent. It is an old ledger of the early merchant, Royal Joyslin, for the years 1825 to 1828 inclusive. The entries were all made by Richard P. Kent, then clerk for Mr. Joyslin. Some few years before the death of Mr. Kent, the old book became his property, and he made many historical notes and descriptions under the accounts of various persons which add largely to the value of the volume. By the kindness of Col. E.R. Kent we are permitted to give our readers the benefit of these. [Abstracts only included here] - Seth Adams, living in Lancaster Jan 1, 1883 (died July 1883), a truly honest, conscientious man. - Rev. Joseph Willard, first settled minister, ordained 1794, had the minister's lot of land of which he made a farm... was dismissed in 1822. Succeeded by Mr. Wheelock..Mr. Willard in 1824 engaged to preach..he died suddenly Sunday morning July 22, 1826. - Samuel Phelps, Guildhall, Revolutionary pensioner, for many years toll gatherer at the Lancaster Toll Bridge - John Hicks, Jefferson, soldier in Major Weeks Company, 11th Regiment in the War of 1812 - Charles A. Going, a young physician of good talents, killed himself by hard drinking at the age of 26 - John Burgin, a lieutenant in the war of the Revolution, drew a pension under the act of 1818 - Ebenezer Twombley, Revolutionary pensioner - Jonas Baker, land surveyor, long known as "Squire Baker" - Ephraim Cross, hatter by trade, afterwards Deputy sheriff and custom house officer, died of cancer, father of Col. Edward E. Cross of the 5th NH Regiment who was killed at Gettysburgh July 1863 - Eunice White, maiden lady long known as "Aunt Eunice" (she was a kind hearted body, went from house to house as a seamstress)... - Richard Darby, lives in Lancaster. After R.P. Kent's death, Darby came to see the remains and wept like a child. - Benjamin Hicks, Jefferson, Revolutionary pensioner. - Charles J. Stuart, lawyer, intemperate, poor, died suddenly while seated at the dinner table in 1834 - Joseph E. Stickney, physician in practice in Lancaster forty-five years, died of consumption July 1869 - Joseph Barras, Dalton. Revolutionary pensioner, made brown pottery which was largely used in early times. - William Ingerson, Jefferson, known as "Billy" Ingerson, famous for telling great stories - Eliphalet Lyman, from Woodstock, Ct., was reputed to be an able physician and surgeon, for many years enjoyed an extensive practice, but fell into habits of intemperance, became poor and lost his business, was divorced from his wife, the mother of his children, married a second time, the second also obtained a divorce. He died at the Coos Hotel of paralysis. - Daniel Pinkham, Adams: known as "Elder Pinkham" projector of the Pinkham road from Adams (now Jackson) to Gorham leading (to) the Glen House. - Ethan A. Crawford, for many years kept a teamster's tavern near where the large Fabyan House now stands at the White Mountains - Jared W. Williams, came from Woodstock, Ct., read law in S.A. Pearson's office, became a politician, was a member of the legislature, state senator, four years member of Congress, and two years Governor of New Hampshire, and the last years of his life served as judge of probate of Coos County. - Abner Hinds, Milan. Was a farmer and hunter, supposed to have been killed. - John Smith, a soldier of the War of 1812. - Major John Burns, Whitefield, a soldier of the War of the Revolution, also of the War of 1812, in the latter as a member of Major Weeks' company. He was elected Representative from Whitefield at the age of 87. - Samuel S. Wentworth, a soldier of the War of the Revolution and a pensioner. - Reuben Stephenson, trader, deputy sheriff, register of deeds, and held other town offices. - William Lovejoy, Jr., known as Judge Lovejoy, he being one side judge, by trade a joiner, was always poor, but a man of influence, was one of the electors of President in 1828, and voted for John Adams - Charles Bellows, a trader, hotel-keeper, lumber manufacturer, sheriff of Coos County, and dealer in wild lands, died in 1883 - Gratia Stebbins, a seamstess, never married, works at making men's garments, known as a tailoress, going from house to house to make garments of the home made cloth spun and woven by the female portion of the family, for her services she received 25 cents per day, and, when at little over seventy years of age, she was obliged to give up labor, she had money laid up to 'carry her through,' and at her decease a few years later, left $1,100 which she had at interest. - Allen Smith, a drummer in the War of 1812, for many years a harness maker in shop opposite our store, a Free Mason - John Bickford, Northumberland, soldier of War of 1812. RICHARD PEABODY KENT Richard Peabody Kent came of a thoroughly New England family. His ancestors landing at Newbury, Mass in 1635.... His immediate paternal ancestor was John Kent, son of Jacob, one of the earliest settlers of Newbury, Vt., then in the New Hampshire Grants-- a lieutenant in the "Old French War"--and a colonel in the War of the Revolution. In 1760 a regiment of eight hundred men was raised in the Province of New Hampshire, for the army destined for the invasion of Canada, and placed under command of General Amherst. Of this regiment, one company was offered by John Hazen, captain; Jacob Kent (a descendant of the pioneer who landed at Parker's river, in Old Newbury, in 1635--and then of Plaistow NH) 1st lieutenant, and Timothy Bedel (father of Moody Bedel of the War of 1812, and grandfather of Gen. John Bedel and Col. Hazen Bedel) 2d lieutenant. THe regiment rendezvoused at Lithfield, and marked by Peterborough and Keene to "Number Four" (Charlestown), thence cut a road through the wilderness, twenty-fix miles to the Green Mountains and thence to Lake Champlain, crossing to Crown Point, where it took water transportation. After a successful campaign, they returned through the wilderness via the meadows of Newbury (vt) and Haverhill, or the "Cohos Country." While returning, Lieut. Col. Jacob Bayley, Capt. Hazen and Lieutenants Kent and Bedel were so impressed with the fertility of these meadows that they determined to found a settlement here. This project was speedily carried out, Bayley and Kent locating on the west side, and Hazen and Bedel on the eastern side of the river, from which settlement sprung the towns of Newbury (named for the old home of the race at the mouth of the Merrimack), then in the "New Hampshire Grants"--now in Vermont--and Haverhill, NH. Jacob Kent, here referred to, died at Newbury in 1812, aged eighty-six years. He was a noted man in his section, commander of the first company of militia raised in the towns of Newbury and Haverhill, "in our Province of New Hampshire"--as says his commission signed in 1764 by Benning Wentworth. He was a leader in church matters, was for years town clerk, and county clerk of Orange county, and subsequently, and for a long time, judge in the Vermont judiciary. In the Revolution, while burdened with the cares of the infant settlement, he was an earnest actor in those scenes which gave us independence. He was colonel of the forces in his vicinity, and on the advance of Burgoyne, started with his regiment for the field, and was present with it at the capitulation at Saratoga. On his mother's side his ancestry was equally notable and deserving. His mother was Tabitha, daughter of Lieut. Richard Peabody, of Woodstock, Conn, an officer of distinction in the Continental army, and one of the early pioneers of Littleton in Grafton county. Sprung from this hardy and patriotic stsock, from which he inherited the indomitable will and resistless energy which characterized his life, the career of Mr. Kent was almost the typical progress of the New England boy of the period. He was born at Newbury on the family homestead, December 21, 1805, and in 1810 removed with his father to "Parker Hill" in Lyman, NH. In 1811 he received an injury from a cut, on his right knee, from the effects of which he never recovered, and which event had an important influence in shaping his subsequent career. At the age of fifteen he commenced his mercantile life as a clerk for William B. Eastman in a little store in Lyman, remaining two years at a compensation of $30 for the first year and $70 for the second. He then entered the store of William Eames, at Wells River, Vt., where he remained for two years, from whence he went to Lisbon in the employ of John A. Smith, where he remained until 1825, when he engaged with Royal Joyslin, for two years at $150 a year, in a store he was about to open at Lancaster. He came to Lancaster on the first day of June 1825; his diary recording that he passed through Littleton village 'then a dozen houses, some mills and one store, kept by Major Aaron Brackett.' Arrived at Lancaster, he stopped at the stage tavern at the north end of the street, kept by William Cargill. It being "Election Day," the people were observing it as a holiday, and he "engaged in a game of long ball, on the Holton Common." At that date, says the diary, there were from Parson Willard's (the present W. H. Hanson house) to the Rosebrook farm (now George H. Emerson's) thirty-four houses only, including two taverns, one at each end of the street; the one at the south end, at a later date was christened the American House and kept by Samuel White. The public buildings were the old church on the Common, now the Town Hall building, the court-house (the present Library building, which for many years served as an academy), the village school-house, in the northwest corner of the prsent court- house yard, and jail of elm logs, built in 1805 and burned January 9, 1858, and the Red Gun House of the (then) 24th Regiment, where the Unitarian church is now. There was a saw and grist-mill at the upper or Wesson dam, conducted by Isaac Derby, familiarly known as "Squire Derby." On the site of the present dam of Frank Smith & Co, was a saw and grist-mill on the north side, owned by Ephraim Stockwell, the grist-mill managed by David Greenleaf, a Revolutionary soldier. On the south side were clothing and carding works. Asahel Going had a smaller clothing mill on the lower dam, where Richardson & Folsom's shop now is. Gen. Wilson had a pearl-ash on Indian brook, in rear of Irving W. Drew's, William Cargill one twenty rods south of it, Mr. Boardman one opposite J.H. Hopkinsons, Reuben Stephenson one where Marshall & Eaton's carriage shop shed are, and Samuel White one where N.B. Wilson's shop stood near the south end of the bridge. The postoffice was kept by Samuel A. Pearson, in the house known as the Hiram A. Fletcher house. Reuben Stephenson had a store on the corner of Main and Middle streets, in his house, now occupied by Mrs. Coburn, on High Street. Samuel White a small stock in his tavern. Mr. Boardman a store in the house near the railroad crossing on Main Street, and Perkins, Eastman & Co. (Gen. John Wilson, George W. Perkins and George V. Eastman) a store on ground now occupied by I.W. Drew's house. The Masonic hall was in this structure, which, after several metamorphoses, is now Charles E. Allen's store. There was the Carlisle store, where Jonas Power's house stands, and David Burnside had a tannery on Elm Street. George W. Perkins was the tailor, Francis Bingham the cabinet maker, Ephraim Cross the hatter, Eliphalet Lyman, Benjamin Hunking, Jacob E. Stickney and Samuel LeGro the physicians; John L. Sheafe, Samuel A. Pearson, William Farrar, Levi Barnard, Charles J. Stuard and Jared W. Williams the lawyers, and Joseph Willard the clergyman. Such was Lancaster sixty-two years ago, and during the long period that has since elapse no man did more to accomplish its development and prosperity, than did Richard P. Kent. In is a remarkable fact, that from June 1, 1825 to March 11, 1885, when he took his bed, Mr. Kent kept a daily record of all events of interest transpiring in Lancaster, and largely in the region around about. There is no break in the chronicle, which furnishes an invaluable fund of biographical and historic information, which it is proper to add, has been largely drawn upon already, in preparing this County History and other works, and which must grow more valuable with each passing year. ......Mr. Kent was, however, years ago, identified with earlier public educational and business plans of the town and region. For over forty years he was secretary and treasurer of the Lancaster bridge, built, not as an investment, but to draw business from the Vermont side of the river. For fifty years he was a trustee of Lancaster Academy, and was president of the corporation at his decease. He was for several years cashier of the Lancaster Bank, the first bank in the region, by reason of bad debts incurred, never lost the public or any person a cent through failure to redeem its bills or obligations. He was a corporator in the first railway charter crossing Coos, the "Portland and Connecticut River," covering the entire county, a franchise which the Atlantic & St. Lawrence were obliged to retire before they could build... He was a trustee of the Lancaster Savings Bank from its incorporation to his decease. He was first in business in Lancaster as a clerk for Royal Joyslin, but speedily assumed care of a concern of his own. He has had a partners, Royal Joyslin, Lewis C. Porter, John C. Kent (at Lyman), Nelson Kent, and his son, Edwin R. Kent. In the hardware branch of his business, Mr. E.V. Cobleigh was associated with him as a partner... His places of business have been the Carlisle store at the north end of the street, moved by Royal Joyslin later to the site of the present National bank, and again to the site of Cobleigh & Moore's store on Middle street, and destroyed by the great fire of 1878; the "Red" or Sampson store, remodeled, and now standing next Mrs. Hosea Gray's on Elm street; the "Green Store" in which was also the bank, afterwards owned by Samuel G. Evans on Main street, and burned in 1880; and the site occupied by him on Main street since 1837. Of this building the old ell was the original store, and formerly stood in the present garden of Mrs. John H. Hopkinson. The main store was built by Mr. Kent in 1853. In his married relations, Mr. Kent was especially contented and happy. He married at Littleton, June 5, 1832 to Emily Mann Oakes, daughter of Henry Oakes, a deceased merchant, formerly of Waterford, Fairlee and Barnet, Vermont, her mother being of the Manns of Orford, the original settlers of that town. In the summer of 1882 the golden anniversary of this auspicious union was quietly observed by the family and immediate relatives. Mr. Kent was a member of the Orthodox Congregational church.. Tuesday, March 10 was the last day about the house, his last entry in his diary recording the result of the town meeting of that day. From then, until his decease, which occurred Monday, March 30, 1885, his decline was rapid. There was no disease, the mechanism of life was wearing out, and when he breathed his last, it was quietly as a child falling away to sleep. The interment occurred, after obsequies at his residence, in the lot prepared by himself on the summit of the hill, in the Summer street cemetery, overlooking the valley and the now prosperous village where his life work was accomplished... HON. HENRY O. KENT One of the best known and most prominent of NH's distinguished sons is Henry O. Kent of Lancaster, at the present time (1887) Naval Officer of the Port of Boston. Henry Oakes Kent was born in Lancaster NH February 7, 1834. The Genealogy of his family is given elsewhere in this volume, in the sketch of the life of his father, Richard Peabody Kent. It may be added that on the maternal side his ancestry is traced to Richard Mann, "a planter in the family of Elder Brewster," who was one of the colony of the Mayflower, and from whom descended that John Mann who was the first permanent settlers of the town of Orford NH in October 1765. Young Kent attended the district school and Lancaster Academy and graduated from Norwich (Vt.) University in the class of 1854. He then entered the office of Hon. Jacob Benton, and pursued his studies for four years, and was admitted to the bar in 1858. Shortly afterward he became the editor and proprietor of the "Coos Republican," published at Lancaster...after retiring from its management, Colonel Kent continued to give his attention to a large general office business, which had grown up... and also to the Lancaster Savings Bank as its treasurer (for which institution he obtained a charter in 1868) and to other manufacturing and business enterprises... Colonel Kent began public life as a Republican, his newspaper being one of the leading party journals in the state. Believing the issues involved in the war to have been finally settled, both by the degree of arms and the constitutional amendments, he came to differ with his former party relative to its policy, and was one of the promoters of the Liberal Republican movement of 1872, which resulted in the nomination of Horace Greeley at Cincinnati and Baltimore, Colonel Kent, being a member of the National, and chairman of the State Liberal Republican committees of that year, acting in unison with the Democrats in the fall campaign. In 1873 the Liberals ran a state ticket, but in 1874 united with the Democrats on a common platform and candidate, James A. Weston, Democrat, being elected governor... From this time he has taken an active and influential part in directing the councils and shaping the policy of the Democratic party in station and nation... He represented Lancaster frequently in the House of Representatives since 1862, and the district comprising his county in the Senate... He has also served as state bank commissioner, presidential elector, commissioner to adjust the state boundary line, and been three time the candidate for his party for representative in Congress... He has served the greater party of twenty-five consecutive years as moderator of Lancaster... Of Colonel Kent's military history... he was a cadet of a military school and colonel of the Governor's Horse Guard... At the opening of the Rebellion [Civil War] he was early called in consultation by the state authorities to arrange recruiting stations and opened one of the first in the state. He was then commissioned assistant adjutant-general of the state by Governor Goodwin, and sent to Portsmouth to aid in the formation of the Second New Hampshire Regiment of Volunteers, and continued active in organizing the earlier NH regiments and was subsequently commissioned colonel of the 17th NH Infantry, performing his entire duty, as ordered by the then authorities, efficiently and creditably. He is past commander of his post of the G.A.R, and past judge advocate of the state department. In the legislature he was House chairman of the railroad committee in 1868 and took an active part in securing the extension of the railroad into Coos county.... He also actively supported the bill to relieve church property from taxation; and in 1885 was largely instrumental in defeating, by veto, the bill preventing hunting and trapping, and favored legislation making the forests and waters of the state free to its people.... Colonel Kent is prominent in the Masonic order, and was made master of ancient North Star Lodge of Lancaster at the age of twenty-five. He also served as grand lecturer, deputy grand master and commander, and grand commander of Knights Templar, and is also a Mason of the thirty-second degree. He is B.S. and A.M. of his college, and for twenty years was president of its associate alumni, he is also trustee of Norwich University and of Lancaster Academy. In business connections he has been manager of a paper-mill, director of insurance companies, and trustee and treasurer of a most successful savings bank.... He was a public speaker in many places.. on behalf of the New Hampshire delegation, of President Cleveland in the Chicago convention of 1884, which game him a national reputation as an orator; at the Boston banquet to Governor Hill of New York in June of 1886...; and in Fanueil Hall at the reception of Robert E. Lee Camp of Virginia, by John A. Andrew Post of Massachusetts, on Bunker Hill Day 1887... Colonel Kent was also president of the NH Democratic state conventions in 1877 and 1884, and delivered speeches on both occasions. [Several poems he wrote are included here, only one is shown below] At the dinner of the New Hampshire Club in Boston, in February 1886, of which Colonel Kent was the principal guest, he included in his response, the following original lines "To the Old Granite State," written in 1856:-- Old Granite State! Thy name recalls Tales of privation, many dark and drear. Since first was set in thy primeval forests, vast, The footprints of the daring pioneer. Years in their onward course have rolled away, And left behind their trace, deep graved in living characters, unaltered, uneffaced, Upon the page of history, and upon the hearts of all they stalwart sons, Reared 'mid thy rocky fastness, or where Connecticut, New England's pride, to ocean runs. Our fathers' hero deeds are known and loved, As the recurring years their measure fill, Their names are graven on Fame's sounding shield, From Yorktown's triumph back to Bunker Hill. New Hampshire's glorious dead! Oh, where Are names more dear to us in song or story Than those that frame a halo round her brow of never-fading glory? The Delaware's bright waters flow lightly past her dead; Virginia's lovely daughters know their lowly, quiet bed; St. Lawrence guards their slumbers and the wilderness of Maine; For them poetic numbers wake Bennington again. Round thy rock height Carilon,* New Hampshire's sons repose Near Mexican pavilions and 'neath chill Canadian snows; Then shout for the Old Granite State, each rock and stream and sod; We keep the faith they pledged to us; we bow to none but God. [Note: Carilon is the Indian name for Ticonderoga] In personal appearance, Col. Kent is above the medium height and build, of erect carriage and elastic step. He wears a heavy dark moustache, which sets off a face full of pleasant expression, lighted up by bright, dark eyes. He was married January 11, 1859, to Berenice A. Rowell, daughter of Samuel Rowell of Lancaster. They have two children, a daughter, Berenice Emily, and a son, Henry Percy. Their home is one of domestic happiness, comfort, and content. Colonel Kent's religious affliations are with the Episcopal worship, and he and his family are regular attendants upon that service. THE WEEKS FAMILY. The Weeks family in England was entitled to armorial bearings. Leonard Weeks, the emigrant was born in Wells, Somersetshire, England in 1635. In January 1656, he had a grant of six acres of land in Portsmouth, and four years later he settled at Winicut (a part of Porstmouth now in Greenland). Mr. Weeks was an influential man, and held positions of responsibility. He is spoken of as "one of the men who stood rather for Massachusetts than the crown." In 1661 he was selectman of Portsmouth. In 1669 he was one of a committee with men of Dover and Hampton to lay a road between Greeland and Bloody Point. He was several years constable and some time sheriff. In 1667 he married Mary, daughter of Deacon Samuel Haines, of Portsmouth. Leonard Weeks was a man of property. In 1706 he deeded farms to three of his sons and made further provision for his oldest son, John. He died in 1707. His children were John, Samuel, Joseph, Joshua, Mary, Jonathan, Margaret, and Sarah. One of the daughters married the grandfather of Gov. John Langdon. CAPT. JOSHUA WEEKS, son of Leonard, was born in Greenland 1674. He became a farmer, and married November 1, 1699, Comfort Hubbard, a sister of Thomas Hubbard, a Boston merchant. They had nine children, Martha, Comfort, Mary, Ichabod, John, Thankful, William, Richard, and Margaret (a daughter of Margaret Weeks married Hon. William Plummer). Martha married Capt. Benjamin Randall; Comfort married Dr. Coffin Moore. The house of Capt. Weeks was at the Bay-side, and afterwards occupied by Deacon William Weeks. Capt. Weeks died June 13, 1758 aged eighty-four years. DR. JOHN WEEKS, son of Captain Joshua, was born in Greenland in 1716, and died in 1763. He was colonel of a regiment, a justice of the peace, and an eminent and successful physician. His estate was valued at 22,000 pounds. He married Martha Wingate, sister of Hon. Paine Wingate. They had ten children. Of these Joshua Wingate Weeks, born 1738, was graduated at Harvard college in 1758, and became rector of St. Michael's church at Marblehead, Mass. At the breaking out of the Revolution, he left the country, and was afterward Bishop of Halifax, N.S. His wife was Sarah Treadwell. They had five sons and three daughters. Four of the sons held commissions in the British army and the other was an Episcopal minister. Sarah (Sally) Weeks, daughter of Dr. John Weeks, at the age of fifteen, married Rev. Jacob Bailey, a classmate at Harvard of President John Adams and Gov. Wentworth. He was ordained an Episcopal clergyman in England, espoused the cause of the mother country in the Revolution, and served fifteen years at Pownalborough (now Dresden) Maine. He then went to Annapolis, N.S. and was rector of St. Luke's church. He resided there twenty-six years, until his death in 1808. His children were Charles Percy, Rebecca L., Charlotte M., Thomas H., William G., and Elizabeth A. Charles Percy Bailey held a captain's commission in the Regiment of the Duke of Kent, "First Royals." In 1813 he was ordered to Canada and was killed July 5, 1813 while leading a charge at the Battle of Chippewa, where Capt. John W. Weeks was fighting on the American side. Thomas H. held an army commission; William G. was a lawyer. CAPT. JOHN WEEKS was born in Hampton NH February 17, 1749. He was the sixth child of Dr. John Weeks. Tradition says it was designed he should follow the profession of his father, who died when John was fourteen years old. Inheriting what seemed to him a fortune, instead of pursuing his studies and fitting for college, he devoted himself to long expeditions for game up the Kennebuc and in the "Upper Coos," visiting this country when but sixteen. In 1770 he married Deborah, daughter of James and Martha (Wingate) Brackett. She was an educated lady, fitted to adorn any position in life. His time and money were freely spent in the service of his country. He had a captain's command in the Revolution; first under the Committee of Safety, and then under the provisional government, by whom he was called to the defense of Portsmouth harbor. In 1786 he came to Lancaster and purchased lands, and returned in 1787 with his daughter Patty to keep his house, and his son John W, then six years old. They came by the way of Baker's River and the Connecticut. In the fall Mrs. Weeks and the remainder of the family, accompanied by relatives and friends, came to their new home through the White Mountain Notch. This journey Mrs. Weeks made on horseback bringing her youngest child, seven months old, in her lap, and James B., three years old, riding behind her. The log house Capt. Weeks first constructed stood directly back of the foundation of an old barn on land now owned by Jason H. Woodward, and about fifty rods toward the village from the house of the late William D. Weeks, now owned by Ephraim Smith. The farm he then occupied has remained in the Weeks family (except for a brief period) for about a hundred years. Here in his new home, as in Greenland, Capt. Weeks kept open house, and entertained with great hospitality the new comers to the settlement. He was a man of strong common sense, genial presence, and good cheer... In 1788 he was elected delegate from Upper Cohos to the convention for the ratification of the federal constitution, and was one of the fifty-seven who voted in the affirmative against forty-six in the negative. In 1792 he represented the whole northern country in the General Court. He also represented the district several times, held the office of selectman, and was a popular moderator of the town meetings.. He died suddenly at Wakefield NH September 1818, when on a journey from Lancaster to Greenland. His wife, one of the noble women of the day, lived to the advanced age of eighty-two years, dying July 5, 1831. They have seven children attaining maturity--Martha, Deborah, Elizabeth, John Wingate, James Brackett, Polly Wiggin, Sally Brackett. Deborah, born February 29,1777 married first William Ayers; second, Jacob Emerson. She died at the age of eighty-four years. Elizabeth, born March 10, 1778, married Azariah Webb, of Lunenburg, Vt.; Mary (Polly), born March 4, 1787, married Adino N. Brackett; Sally B., born August 13, 1789, married Edwards Bucknam. Martha, oldest child of Capt. John Weeks, was born in Greenland, December 20,1771. She married Edward Spaulding. They lived on the northern slope of Mt. Pleasant, the central hill of the three Martin Meadow hills. They had four sons and two daughters. Mrs. Spaulding was a woman of great industry, and fater her household affairs were put in order, had time for reading. When eighty-five years old she read "Mill's Crusades," and could discuss the merits of the work, the causes of the movement, the style of the author, etc; showing an unusual memory of what she had read, and a knowledge of general history, which would be remarkable in a much younger woman of the present day. Her sight failed soon after, but her granddaughters read to her. She died Januar 10, 1871, in the one hundredth year of her age, filling out the measure of a long life of usefulness, kindness and Christian charity. JOHN WINGATE WEEKS, oldest son of Capt. John Weeks, born in Greenland, March 31, 1781, came to Lancaster in 1787. He was a bright boy, fond of study, and although his educational opportunities were meager, yet he became one of the most intelligent men in the northern part of the state. In 1805 he married Martha Brackett, who died about two years after. In 1824 he married Persis F., daughter of Hon. Richard C. Everett. They had no children. In June 1812 he was commissioned captain, "rendezvoused" fifty men at the house of A.N. Brackeet and started for the Niagara frontier, where he served during the war. He was attached to the Eleventh U.S. Infantry, and his company formed the right of the regiment at the battle of Chippewa. Capt. Weeks was brevetted for gallant services in the battle, and commissioned major (commanding the first brigade USA, consisting of the 11th, 13th and 23d regiments). He participated in many of the most severe engagements of the war. When peace was restored, Major Weeks returned to his farm in Lancaster, where he was selectman, county treasurer (1818-1822), sheriff (1819-1824), one of the commissioners to run the boundary line between Maine and NH, member of Congress for the two termsending 1833. He died April 3, 1853. JAMES BRACKETT WEEKS, born in Greenland, June 14, 1784, came to Lancaster in the fall of 1787. His education was such as the time and place afforded. He married, January 1, 1810, Elizabeth, daughter of Lieut. Dennis Stanley, settled upon what is now Prospect farm, which he occupied until his death, March 19, 1858; Mrs. Weeks died in 1854. She was an excellent woman of rare energy and sterling worth. Their children were James Wingate, Mary Nye, Sarah Stanley, William Dennis, John, Martha Eliza and Persis Fayette. Mr. Weeks was a successful farmer, and took pride in the fine cattle that he raised. He inherited a love of hunting, and was so cool and collected when in pursuit of game, that his gun seldom failed him. He was remarkable for his clear head and sound judgment. Simple and unpretending, he neither sought nor wished for public office, preferring the quiet of his home life. However, he had pronounced and decided opinions and expressed them strongly. A gentleman in all his instincts, he dispense his hospitality with a generous hand. MARY NYE WEEKS, born at Lancaster August 14, 1813, married Richard H. Eastman and died in 1857. Their daughter Mary, married James W. Weeks Jr., in 1886. SARAH STANLEY WEEKS, born at Lancaster November 16, 1815, married Edmund C. Wilder, of Colebrook. She died May 22, 1842. JAMES WINGATE WEEKS, born at Lancaster, July 15, 1811. He is the oldest child of James B. and Elizabeth (Stanley) Weeks, and inherited the strong individuality of his parents. He received such education as the common schools of his day afforded, supplemented by a few terms at Lancaster academy. He is a close student, a constant reader of valuable books, and a keen and correct observor of human and animal nature. During his boyhood he was engaged in assisting in the necessary farm labor. He taught school five winters, and was a successful teacher in some of the largest and most difficult schools. When he was about eighteen years of age he learned the trade of a house joiner, but did not follow it to any extent. In 1834 he entered the employ of E. & T. Fairbanks & Co., of St. Johnsbury, Vt., and continued with them, as agent, for six years; two years of the time he passed in Michigan and adjoining states. In the fall of 1840 Mr. Weeks returned to Lancaster where he has since resided. His mechanical taste, and love of nature, led him early into land surveying, and he has a wide reputation as a surveyor. In 1845 he assisted in the survey of the boundary between the United States and Canada, from the mouth of Hall's stream to St. Regis, on the St. Lawrence (about 160 miles), his associates being Capt. Warner and Lieut. Pope, U.S. topographical engineers. His duty was to survey and make a sketch of the country half a mile each side of the boundary, and connect his work with the main line. On reaching St. Regis he was given the field notes taken by Warner and Pope, and on his return to Lancaster he made a topographical map of the summer's work, which was sent to Washington, and highly complimented. Mr. Weeks has been extensively employed in preparing and illustrating land cases for the courts of his own and other counties. His exactness and wide knowledge, with his promptness in attending to the work, made him a most valuable man in business, and his services have been in great requisition. In 1844 he was elected road commissioner, which office he held two years. In the spring of 1848 he was appointed to fill a vacancy in the office of railroad commissioner, occasioned by the death of Titus O. Brown, and two years later he was appointed to fill a full term of that office, thus holding that position five yars in the most active period of railroad building in New Hampshire. In 1854 he succeeded Gov. J.W. Williams as judge of probate, which office he held about two years, when the "Know-nothings" came into power, and he, not choosing to take the oath of the order, was removed with all others not members. From about 1847 few men have been more employed in probate business than Mr. Weeks; although not a lawyer, he was an excellent judge of probate law, and thoroughly conversant with all its forms. His good judgement, sagacity and keen insight into the characters of men, were of great advantage to him, and he has acquitted himself with credit, and to the approval of interested parties. In 1870 he was elected one of the county commissioners with Amos W. Drew of Colebrook. They found an enormous county debt drawing the highest rate of interest, and interest not paid on some of the notes "afloat" with large arrears due from some of the towns. They succeeded in re-arranging, satisfactorily, the financial affairs of the county. Mr. Weeks is a Democrat in politics, consequently, after 1854, he belonged to the minority party...In 1847 he purchased the "Hemenway farm," two miles east of Lancaster village, upon which he has lived forty years. He conducted his farm like all business which he undertook, and was financially successful. In 1842, May 30, Mr. Weeks married Martha W., daughter of Solomon and Clarissa Hemenway, a lady of great merit and high social standing. They had four children, Sarah (Mrs. Oxnard) who died July 1871, aged twenty-five years; George, James W., Jr., and Clara H. who died May 5, 1881, aged twenty-nine years. These daughters were cultured and refined ladies. Mrs. Weeks died September 5, 1853. Mr. Weeks married, in 1859, Mary E. daughter of Dr. Robert Burns, of Plymouth, and sister of Hon. William Burns. Socially and intellectually she ranked among the first ladies of Northern New Hampshire. She died February 2, 1878. The loss of these beloved members of his family was a great grief to Mr. Weeks, a sorrow that neither time nor the attention of friends can lessen. He inherited a love of hunting from his ancestors, especially large game. Bears were his favorite sport, and he has trapped and killed a great number. When over seventy-five years old he heard of one eight miles away that had evidently not been disturbed. He set a trap and watched it. On finding the trap gone, he, after a chase of two hours, came up with "Bruin" and shot him as he would gave done in the prime of life. The man who was with Mr. Weeks said, "Mr. Weeks forgot that he was over thirt years old; he forgot his cane; his long deer gun was no incumbrance; and when we came in sight of the game, he seemed in no need of glasses to shoot it, which was done in the most approved style." Bruin's skin dressed by Mr. Weeks makes a very nice robe. In his religious belief Mr. Weeks is a Unitarian. He dislikes theological controversy, and believes that a good man of any religious denomination is a good Christian; and that a villian is a villian [sic], no matter to what church he belongs... He is an aredent lover of history, his memory is retentive and accurate, he has a keen sense of humor.... WILLIAM DENNIS WEEKS, born in Lancaster February 28, 1818 died February 27, 1885, was the second son of James B. and Elizabeth (Stanley) Weeks. As a boy he lived on his father's farm, tilled the soil, and carefully improved the educational advantages afforded him, and became a successful teacher. For some years he was in the employ of E. & T. Fairbanks, St. Johnsbury, Vt. In 1848 he married Mary Helen Fowler, a niece of Gov. J.W. Williams, a lady of worth, a true helpmate, and congenial companion. Their three children are Emma F. (Mrs. Burleigh Roberts), John W., and William C. Mr. Weeks was a farmer on the old homstead farm, but for more than forty years has been identified with the public interests of his town and county. In 1841 he represented Lancaster in the legislature, for many years he was a selectman, and held other positions of trust. In 1863 he was appointed deputy collector of internal revenue, which office he held till it was abolished. At one time he was proposed by his friends as a candidate for governor, and quite a complimentary vote was secured in the convention, but he modestly declined the candidacy. In the summer of 1876 he was appointed judge of probate. Though not bred to the law he discharged his duties of probate judge justly, honestly and satisfactorily until his death. He was of the Unitarian faith, and a strong supporter and practicer of the tenets of that church..... MARTHA ELIZA WEEKS, born October 10, 1824 was a woman of much ability, and somewhat of a religious enthusiast. She was ever working for the good of others, and striving to relieve the unfortunate. During the Civil War (1861) she went to Alexandria, Va., and was head nurse in the hospital there until her health failed, and only at the urgent advice of her physician left her post. After regaining health and strength she went to the Soldier's Home in Boston and occupied the same position for two years. In 1865 she became assistant of Rev. Mr. Cheney, of Hollis Street church, Boston, acting as city missionary until her death, his occurred June 1, 1872. (This was occasioned by caring for a poor and destitute woman who was ill with a contagious disease). PERSIS FAYETTE WEEKS, born February 3, 1831, was the youngest child of James B. Weeks. For clear good sense and womanly virtues she has few equals. January 2, 1855, she married Rev. George M. Rice, who died September 22, 1882. Their four children are Laura W. (Mrs. H. H. Piper), George B., Mary Nye and William, all true children of such a mother. Mrs. Rice's home is in Dublin, NH where her husband was a pastor for 15 years. HOSEA GRAY, son of James and Sarah (Elkins) Gray, was born at Jackson NH April 11, 1818. He inherited a strong vitality and vigorous health from his parents, and aided hi physical development by industriously laboring on his father's farm until he attained manhood. His advantages for the education of schools was meager, but he had a discipline, and acquired a practical knowledge, which was of great value to him in after life. His work was honestly and thoroughly done....When he came of age he came to Lancaster, abandoning the avocation of his father...He owned a team and drew produce from Lancaster to Portland, returning the merchandise. On one of his return trips, while unloading his goods, he met withq quite a serious accident which incapacitated him for labor of this nature. He then engaged in trade in a small way in the Reuben Stephenson house, on the corner of Main and Middle streets. He removed to the "Cargill store," where he remained until 1857 when he retired from merchandising. He carried his operations into all of the upper towns of the county and through the Androscoggin valley, bought and sold cattle, horses, wool, flour, anything and all things that had a merchantable value, and personally supervised a large farm with financial success...Long years of unceasing toil at last undermind his splendid constitution, and he died August 27, 1882, after an illness of nearly two years. Mr. Gray married March 28, 1858, Mary A., daughter of William and Mary (Perkins) Sampson, a lady eminently fitted to make the home life pleasant, and who survives him. Their own child, Janet, married, and has given to her only child, a son, his grandfather's name. JOHN HUBBARD SPAULDING Edward Spaulding, the ancestor of the Spaulding family in America, settled at Braintree, Mass., between 1630 and 1633. Edward-2, born 1635 at Chelmsford, Mass died 1708. Edward-3 was born August 18, 1674 at Chelmsford. Phineas-4 born in Chelmsford in 1706, died in 1748. Daniel-5 born November 5, 1737 in Hudson NH, died at Lancaster NH. His wife was Phebe Dustin. They came to Northumberland, from Londonderry, with their son Edward-6, who married Martha Weeks. He died in Lancaster, January 6, 1845. Their son, John Wilson Spaulding, was the father of John Hubbard Spaulding, who was born in Lancaster, August 17, 1821. His grandfather, Edward Spaulding, was one of the early settlers of the town. His father, John Wilson Spaulding, and his mother Electa Stebbins Spaulding died when he was about three years old. His uncle and aunt (William Dustin Spaulding and Sarah Ann Spaulding) adopted and cared for him affectionately as for an own child. From boyhood he worked on his uncle's farm, and in good time acquired a common school and academic education, and for faithful service received a gift one year of his minority. He began life by teaching a district school in the winter for several years, and working on a farm the remainder of the year, except when it was convenient he practiced land-surveying. One year he assisted in surveying and lotting the township of Pittsburg. He was employed in 1845, the next year, after the famous "Webster and Ashburton Treaty," under Lieut. W.H. Warner and Lieut. John Pope (now General); and as a surveyor, assisted in establishing the United States and Canada line from the "Highlands" in Maine westward past New Hampshire, Vermont, and along the northern boundary of New York to St. Regis on the St. Lawrence River. In 1847-48 he purchased, mostly on credit, several hundred acres of timberland in Lancaster and Northumberland; and, after building two saw-mills, successfully manufactured lumber for several years. In 1848 he married Miss Emeline Corser, of Guildhall, Vt. They have two children--the oldest, John H. Jr., is married and lives in Whitefield; the second, Debby Ann, married and lives in Lancaster. In 1853 he assisted in building the "Tip-Top" House on the summit of Mr. Washington, and the next year became half owner of that and the "Summit House" (so called). For nine seaons he was chief manager of both houses, becoming favorable well known to the thousands of distinguished visitors to that renowned resort. February 10, 1862, with two invited companions, he accomplished the dangerous enterprise he had planned the summer before, and visited the top of Mt. Washington in mid-winter. For two days and nights his party was storm-bound, and fully realized the terrors of that place in a hurricane of drifting snow. In one place, while making the fearful ascent, he was obliged to cut steps for a long distance past an icy cliff, the waste ice from which rushed down two thousand feet into the woods below. In 1862 two rival claimants to the real estate title of Mr. Washington instituted through surveys by which to prove ownership and during two different seasons he assisted each of these parties in making their surveys, and, though protected by a special charter from the state in his right to hold the hotel improvements on Mt. Washington, he sold his interests and bade farewell to mountain life. By invitation from an old business associate, he went to Rosendale, Ulster County, N.Y., March 9, 1865, and from that date, he has very successfully superintended the manufacture of hydraulic cement for the Lawrenceville Cement Company, with only a short vacation each year..... GEORGE ROSCOE EATON The Eaton family is one of the earliest in America. Among the one hundred and two passengers of the "Mayflower" who arrived in Cape Cod harbor two hundred and sixty-seven years ago, were Francis Eaton, his wife, and Samuel Eaton. Francis Eaton was one of the signers of the first compact in the nature of a constitution of government in the Plymouth Colony. Samuel Eaton was one of the 26 men who purchased what became the First Precinct in Middleborough, Massachusetts, where he died in 1684, leaving descendants. About sixteen years after the arrival of the "Pilgrim Band" (1636), John and Anna Eaton came from England to Boston and, in 1640, were living in Salisbury, Mass. They had two sons, Thomas and John-2. Thomas removed with his father to Haverhill, Mass; John-2 remained in Salisbury, married, had John-3, who in due time also married, and became the father of Joseph-4 to whom a son John-5 was born. The birth of Wyman-6 occurred in Salisbury, July 1725; he married Ruth Merrill, December 17, 1745, and settled in that part of Hampton NH, now Seabrook [Five generations of the family settled within a radius of five or six miles of the old homestead in Salisbury, which has ever been, and is now, occupied by descendants]. In 1765, Wyman Eaton's name appears on the petition to Gov. Wentworth for a Presbyterian society in Hampton Falls which shows that he was a freeholder and inhabitant of the town. His son, John-7 bought land in Buxton, Maine in 1774, from James Gray of Salisbury, Mass, and moved thither. He married Jemima Green. Tristram-8, fourth of their nine children, was born December 16, 1781. His son Stephen W., was born in Buxton, Me., educated at the common schools, studied civil engineering, and was a member of the first surveying party engaged in running out the Atlantic & St. Lawrence railroad. He married Miranda B. Knox, of Portland (a descendant of Gen. Henry Knox) and became a resident of that city. They had eight children: Stephen M., Samuel K., George R., Minnie (Mrs. Myron Hovey of Boston), Charles P., Woodman S., Howard B. and Edward. George Roscoe Eaton, third son of Stephen W., and Miranda B. (Knox) Eaton was born in Portland, Me., November 16, 1837. He recieved his school education at the high schools of Portland & Yarmouth, Me. At the age of fifteen he entered the office of S.T. Corser, superintendent of the Atlantic & St. Lawrence (Grand Trunk) railroad, as clerk, where he remained two years and a half, evincing an aptitude, intelligence and readiness for business. He passed the next two years and half in the Grand Trunk freight forwarding office at Portland. He was now twenty years old, and left his home, came to Berlin, and engaged in the employ of H. Winslow & Co. as general agent of their mill and store. Although the firm changed several times in the course of his stay, Mr. Eaton was connected with its management for 14 years. During this time... Mr. Eaton.. invested larged in the broad timer lands in Coos county, and his investments brought solid financial returns. In 1872, purchasing a stock of goods and store at North Stratford, he changed his residence to that place, and continued trade alone until 1882, when he admitted E.B. Merriam as a partner, and the firm became E.B. Merriam & Co. By this time Mr. Eaton's lumber interest and ownership of lands had become extensive, and his financial ability known and appreciated. Upon the formation of the Lancaster National Bank in 1882, Mr. Eaton was elected its president, accepted the honor, and removed to Lancaster, where he has since resided. Democratic in politics.. he represented Berlin in the legislature of 1872 and 1873; was selectman for several years in Berlin and Stratford; a member of the constitutional convention in 1876 from Stratford; was elected county treasurer in 1884 and re-elected in 1886. He is a member of the firm of Eaton & Sawyer, lumber manufacturers of Columbia, also of Marshall & Eaton carriage manufacturers of Lancaster, and for many years has loaned money, and conducted a private banking business. In 1860 Mr. Eaton married Sarah J. Parker. They have three daughters--Minnie P., Georgie May and Sadie Jane (twins). The family attend the Unitarian church, of which Mr. Eaton is a generous supporter. GEORGE VAN DYKE George Van Dyke was born in Stanbridge, P.Q. February 21, 1846, the fifth child of a family of eight children. His father, George Van Dyke, was a native of Highgate, Vt. [The Van Dyke family came originally to Vermont from Kinderhook, New York, and according to Washington Irving, wsa one of the prominent Dutch families which so early brought civilization to the valley of the Hudson under the administration of Peter Stuyvesant. Among there were "the Van Wycks, the Van Dycks, the Van Burens and the Brinkerhoffs and the Schermerhorns." Note: Martin Van Buren, eighth president of the United States was a descendant of the above-mentioned Van Buren family. Gov. Stuyvesant possessed great energy of character, self- reliance, but was impetuous, turbulent, self-willed, and recklessly courageous and unscrupulous in his absolutism. He was appointed Governor of the Dutch possessions in the New World in 1645, with two prominent officers associated with him in the administration of all civil and military affairs. They were the Vice Director and the Fiscal (an important office corresponding with our national treasurer). To this latter high office was appointed a soldier, skilled in wise counsels and of valor, Ensign Van Dyck. He had been wounded in the Indian wars, and in 1644, was in charge of the expedition which exterminated the large Indian tribe that dwelt on the site of Stamford, Conn. He was imprisoned by Gov. Stuyvesant for attempting to gain that place in the Council to which he thought his office legitimately entitled him. He was one of the most noted men of New Amsterdam (New York) for many years, and brought an Indian war upon the colony by shooting an Indian woman gathering peaches in his garden. Many lives were lost, Hoboken and Pavonia were burned, Van Dyck was shot dead by an arrow, and the very existence of the colony imperilled.--EDITOR] His mother, Abigail Hatch Dixon, was the granddaughter of Capt. Thomas Dixon, of South Hero, Vt., and daughter of Capt. John Dixon, a soldier of the War of 1812, a man of great probity of character. The Dixon family was of marked ability, and Mrs. Van Dyke inherited the chief characteristics of her sturdy ancestry.* [*Capt. Thomas Dixon, a Revolutionary pensioner, settled at South Hero, Vt., about 1790. He was a worthy man, of kindly disposition, brave and heroic. When the British attacked Plattsburgh, Capt. Dixon took his gun and hastened to the front, where he became so much engaged in firing, that he did not notice that the Americans were falling back, until he was nearly surrounded by the British. But he had boasted that he "never had and never would turn his back to the British," and he faced them as he retreated, and continued fighting. He received several bullet-holes in his clothing, but by little less than a miracle escaped unhurt--"Vermont Historical Magazine, Vol II, pp. 573-4]. She [Abigail Hatch Dixon] married George Van Dyke Sr. in 1836; they emigrated to Stanbridge, P.Q. where they built their log house, and cleared the land of its primeval forest. In a home like this, George Van Dyke Jr. could not fail to get that education that comes from experience and work. He attended the town schools until the age of eleven, and henceforth by his own industry and faithfulness was to make his way, and how by his ability and zeal that the real essential of a strong manhood can be learned in the rough discipline of the woods equally as well as in the seemingly more favorable surroundings of a city business education. At the age of eleven he began to earn his own living, and put the hard conditions of poverty and lack of wordly advantages under his feet.... At the age of fourteen he engaged to chop in the woods on the Androscoggin, and from that time, with a stout heart began to be the architect of his fortunes... At the age of 26, the wood-chopper of the Androscoggin valley became in company with Henry and Louis Bowman, at Guildhall, Vt., in 1872, the manager of a saw-mill on the Connecticut. From Guildhall, Vt., he went to South Lancaster, taking charge of the mill there for himself in the spring of 1875. In the fall of 1876 he removed to McIndoes, Vt., where he accumulated a handsome competency; and making wise investments in the timber lands of northern Vermont and New Hampshire (which rapidly rose in market value) he soon became one of the wealthiest capitalists in the section. In 1886 he sold all his interests to the Connecticut River Lumber Company, and became its president. Since that time he has devoted himself to the care of the interests of the company.... Through his indomitable force and powers of execution, the Upper Coos railroad of which he is president, has this year become an accomplished fact. He is also a director of the Hereford, P.Q. Branch railroad. Although Mr. Van Dyke has been so singularly successful in business, his prosperity has not turned him away from the amenities of life. He is a very devoted son and brother, and a sincere friend. He generously shares with others the results of his large fortune. At his beautiful home in Lancster, his mother, and his sister, Miss Eva, dispense an elegant hospitality. The churches of McIndoes find him a most generous supporter. He is a Universality in religious belief...In politics he is a Democrat... FRANK SMITH Frank Smith, son of Chester and Betsey (Hutchins) Smith was born at Lunenburg, Vt., September 12, 1833 and was the youngest of a family of ten children. His childhood years were passed with his parents, and like many farmer's sons, he had to use his hands to help move the wheels of the household economy. At the age of sixteen he went to Newbury, Vt., where he attended the seminary one year with good results; having acquired sufficient education to start him in life as a clerk in a store in Boston, where he remained two years, gaining a knowledge of business and fitting himself in various ways for his future field of labor. In the fall of 1852 he came to Lancaster and commenced his long and active business in the store of J.A. Smith. The next spring, with his little savings, he began trade in a small way in the building now the Colby Brother's drug store, as a grocer and provision dealer, conducting the store for four years. Then he built and occupied for about 10 yrs the store since occupied by D.W. Smith. In 1870 with a partner, George A. Goodrich, under firm name of Smith & Goodrich, he engaged in the same line in the Burnside store, paying more attention to the jobbing of flour, feed and grain (for 3 years) when the firm name became Frank Smith & Co., Mr. Goodrich being succeeded by A.M. Bullard (who died in 1881, when his son Willie E. Bullard became Mr. Smith's partner). At this time the business had assumed large proportions and included grain, flour, agricultural implements, etc. In 1875 they were burned out in the great fire, losing heavily, but .. carried on without intermission in a rented building, and the construction of the large mercantile establishment now occupied them and was begun as soon as the land could be bought. About 1873 the firm purchased a half-interest in the grist-mill in the village, and with John P. Hodge, conducted it until it was burned in 1875. The next year they rebuilt it with facilities for grinding grain. In 1879 sold his half to Frank Smith & Co. In 1881 they bought the Freeman mill, remodeled it, put in machinery to cut lumber, and from that time have manufactured lumber. THey are also largely interested in the Kilkenny Lumber Company. Their business has steadily increased. They own and cultivate the Brooks farm of 120 acres of beautiful meadow land... Mr. Smith married, first Harriet B., daughter of Fielding and Mary (Bingham) Smith on May 8, 1855. She died August 1, 1875. They had one child, Minnie (she married Edwin T. Morse, of Charlestown, Mass., has one child, Frank). Mr. Smith married, second, December 20, 1877, Esther J., daughter of Benjamin and Eunice (Bennett) Rhodes. She was born in Cairo, N.Y. They have two children, Florence J. and Frank C. Mrs. Smith was for several years a successful teacher in the State Normal School. Mr. Smith.. has had the entire supervision of the public schools in Lancster, and was a prominent member on the Board of Education for 12 years; he was a Republican until the Liberal Republican party was started, when he joined the Greeley movement.. and has since acted with the Democrats; in 1881 he was nominated for representative to run again the very popular C.B. Jordan and was defeated by one vote; in 1885 he was again nominated and elected by 75% majority over George P. Rowell; was chairman of the county convention of 1886 which decided the rebuilding of the court-house; he is frequently a delegate to county and state convetions; he has been a Free Mason for 21 years, belonging now to North Star Lodge and North Star Commandery; he is a member of the New Hampshire club.; he is a Unitarian.... ANDERSON J. MARSHALL Anderson J. Marshall, one of the leading manufacturers of Coos county, was the son of Antipas P. and Nancy A. (Lucas) Marshall and was born in Northumberland, July 13, 1819. His father died when he was a child of six years, and was placed under the guardianship of his uncle, Hon. John Marshall, who was for many years a county judge. He passed his childhood with his guardian and with his mother, who became Mrs. Eri Curtis. At the age of fifteen he was apprenticed to Benjamin Rolfe, of Colebrook, to learn the carpenter's trade, and while there he was a member of the "Colebrook Guards," and served in the famous "Indian Stream War." In 1837 he came to Lancaster and attended the "Old Academy," and then established himself in business here as a carpenter, and when 21 built the house so long occupied by Richard P. Kent. He went to Lawrence, Mass, where he was in the employ of Abbott Lawrence, in charge of the men engaged in the erection of the noted, "Pemberton Mills." He afterwards spent some time in St. Louis, Mo. and then returned to Lancaster, and in 1847, bought out the carriage business of James W. Weeks, which he continued on the same site for 35 years. On the night of October 14, 1852, his entire plant was destroyed by fire. A subscription was raised to aid him to rebuild, and a "Benefit Ball" inaugurated by the young people, the proceeds of which were devoted to the same benevolent enterprise. Within a year Mr. Marshall had erected a fine manufactory, driven by steam, its whistle being the first one heard in Lancaster, and the business grew to large proportions. He was succeeded by Marshall & Chamberlain, which firm soon became Marshall & Eaton (A.P. Marshall and George R. Eaton). Mr. Marshall's death occurred August 28, 1883. His wife, Frances, daughter of George and Mary (Waite) Perkins, of Lancaster, whom he married January 1, 1840, survives him. Their children are, Antipas P. (who had three children, Fred A., Frank P. and Winnie A.); Emma F. (Mrs. George L. Williams, of Concord, who has Jessie and Ethelyn); Belle (Mrs. George S. Locke who resides in Concord, has one son, George S.). Mr. Marshall was a member of I.O. of O.F. and a worthy member of the ancient Lodge of F. & A. M. He was president of the "Savings Bakj of the County of Coos" and a director of the Lancaster National bank. He was a Methodist. ALEXANDER THOMPSON Alexander, son of Daniel and Persis (Ladd) Thompson, was born in Cornith, Vt., July 11, 1819 and died at Lancaster NH September 3, 1882. His parents' circumstances did not afford him the advantages of liberal culture, and he was dependent on his own efforts for acquiring the knowledge he sought.... while working in his father's blacksmith shop, he studied Latin with his grammar on the forge. He also read in the same ways works of philosophy, science and general literature. He had natural mechanical powers and remarkable inventive faculties. At 21 he went to Boston and passed some years in manufacturing dental instruments. He was afterwards in the employ of E. & T. Fairbanks, St. Johnsbury, Vt., in their scale works. Subsequently, in company with John H. Paddock, he established a machine shop at Paddocksville, Vt. In May 1866 he came to Lancaster [See "Thompson Manufacturing Co"]. During his residence in Boston, he became a member of the "Old South Church," and retained his membership during life. He was a fine singer and one of the choir. In mature life, he was a student of Swedenborg, and a believer in that philosophy. He attended the services of the Orthodox church in Lancaster. Mr. Thompson was three times married. By his second wife, Ellen Armington, he had one daughter. December 25, 1866 he married Alice, daughter of Hiram and Alice (Child) Twitchell, a native of Randolph, Vt. She surviveshim. The children of this marriage are Mary, Mabel C., Alice T., Grace, Sarah Agnes and Persis A. Mr. Thompson was a Republican. FRANK BUGBEE, M.D. The Bugbee family is of undoubted Scandanavian (Danish) origin, but was early in England. In the reign of Edward of Wessex (901-925) his minister of state was a Mr. Buga, who was prominent in affairs; and man land holders and landlords were of that name, or Bugga. In the last century there arose a celebrated Danish astronomer named Buggee, which name is often found now in Denmark and England. It has, however, undergone various changes in its termination during these many centuries. Near the last of April 1634, two ships, The "Francis" with 84 passengers, and the "Elizabeth" with 104 passengers, sailed from Ipswich, England, the same day, and arrived at Boston nearly together. In the "Francis" came Edward Bugby, then forty years old, his wife, Rebecca, thirty-four years old, and daughter Sarah, four years old. Unto this good couple was born June 6, 1640, Joseph who married Experience, daughter of Andrew Pitcher, of Dorchester, Mass., and moved, with quite a party of others, to Woodstock, Conn, in 1686, as one of the original proprietors and first settlers. Joseph and his wife had nine children. Their fifth son, Josiah, was born in Roxbury, Mass., November 2, 1684. Upon arriving at maturity, he took a wife and moved to the new town of Ashford, Conn., and was among its pioneers. He was the ancestor of Dr. Frank Bugbee, the direct line being Edward, born in England about 1594; Joseph, born in Roxbury, Mass, June 6, 1640; Josiah, born in Roxbury, Mass, November 2, 1684; Josiah 2d, born in Woodstock, Conn., December 23, 1708; Amos, born in Ashford, Conn., November 3, 1749; Ralph, born in Ashford, Conn., February 3, 1796; Frank, born in Waterford, Vt., September 18, 1836. Ralph Bugbee, Frank's father married Irena Goss, of Waterford, Vt., October 4, 1820. They had six children. The third son died in childhood. The father and all the remaining children were doctors of medicine--some eminent in their profession. In the practice of surgery, for which they all seemed fitted, both by taste and nature, they excelled. Frank was the fifth child, and although his father had become "Well-to-do" yet he thought it best for all his children to know how to earn a living, and so put Frank to work upon the home farm at an early age. Frank attended the district summer school and winter, and there laid the foundation for his future education. He was a quiet, obdiently, manly child... WHen a mere boy he was much with his father in his study and in the long rides a country physician in those days was compelled to take. His love and aptitude for medicine were thus early developed. A few termas at the academy as he grew older only made more manifest the bent of his mind. He then applied himself the more dillgently to his medical studies, and at the same time, with his father, among his patients had practical illustration of the principles and theories so recently learned from books. He entered the medical school at Dartmouth college and took and held good rank among his fellows. He met there Dr. Frank Towne, now, and for a long time, a surgeon of the U.S. army. Coming to Lancaster with him for a visit, he met the acquaintance of his sister, Maria P. Towne, daughter of Barton G. Towne and they were married March 4, 1863. He made his home in Lancaster, and at once engaged in medical practice. His kindness and gentleness, his good nature, quiet humor, and sympathizing heart soon made him popular with all classes. He was not long in gaining an extensive acquaintance and a consequent large practice, extending into the neighboring towns of Dalton, Whitefield, Jefferson and Northumberland, and Lunenburg, Guildhall, and Maidstone in Vermont. Soon he was able to make a beautiful home for himself, wife and only child, Hattie, who came to them in December 1864. He was hospitable and generous, and entertained his many friends royally. In his later years, he purchased a large farm and took much comfort with his horses and cattle... His daughter, wife and himself all started nearly together for the "border-land." Hattie died July 16, 1880; her mother five days afterwards. The doctor tarried until the sixth day of September, and then followed his family in their silent march to the far country.